How about those Raiders?  Came into Denver knowing that their strength was to run the ball and to run the ball often.  Russell may have bought himself a little time but that team seems to have two quality QBs in Gradowski and Frye.  One can say its not saying much but Gradowski was 2-1 and had Frye not gotten injured would have probably won his first start.  That is as far as I'll go in congratulating the Oakland Raiders.

I understand that Mike Shanahan wasn't getting it done both in December and in the offseason which led to some frustrating Decembers.  What I am most disappointed with is the inability to convert 3rd downs.  The defense has done tremendously well and if there were ever a unit that can win "most improved " award it would be these guys.  

McDaniels reminds me of Brian Billick.  An offensive mind that set records in Minnesota with Randall Cunningham then Duante Culpepper and the likes of Robert Smith, Cris Carter and Randy Moss.  However, once he got to Baltimore in his first HC position, offense was the least of his forte.  Dilfer.  Boller. Redman.  Those were the QBs that came and went as a defense rose to great heights and carried the team to where it is today.

The thinking heading into the season was simple.  Allow McDaniel an entire season and access his body of work.  With two games remaining I have a few things that jump out at me.  Tony Carter made a few plays in his first action in a live NFL game.  More plays than I remember Alphonso Smith (a pick I am for) making at this point in the season. 

Chris Baker has been inactive for another week.  The one position, player who needs time in happens to be Baker.  Would he have been able to contribute in containing the run?  I think so.  I've yet to see the same Denver defense that excelled at rushing the passer and maintaining discipline. 

Its December.  The season is one long grind that can wear the best of men.  For once, I'd like to see a hero among men rise to the occasion.