In fact, they went 0-4 to end the season and missed the playoffs yet again. The best thing I can say about the end of the 2011 season for my Raiders is that it has rekindled my sincere and intense dislike for every other team in the AFC West. That severe emotion had been dormant for a long time.
Now it's back with a vengeance.
But I have to wait until next year to see if my Raiders can build on back to back 8-8 seasons.
San Francisco beat the Rams yesterday to lock up the 2nd seed in the NFC playoffs and a first round bye. They'll get at least one home game and if they keep winning and the Packers somehow lose, SF will host the NFC Championship game.
I don't want to get ahead of myself though. This 49er team does have some flaws. They have trouble scoring in the red zone. They aren't particularly potent offensively, although the run game is outstanding and they don't usually beat themselves with turnovers. Plus, kicker David Akers is a tremendous weapon.
The strength of this team is its defense. SF ranks 1st in points against and rushing yards allowed, and 4th in total yards allowed. They are outstanding at forcing turnovers, with a +28 turnover ratio.
They aren't my Raiders, but they'll do. It's a red and gold January for me, rather than the silver and black I really wanted.
Go 'Niners!!
