Even though the Oakland Raiders have added several talented offensive pieces in the past two years, oddsmakers still consider them a long shot at 50/1 odds to win the 2009 Super Bowl.
Perhaps the biggest offseason acquisition and certainly the most buzz-worthy was the selection of running back Darren McFadden in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft. The team also doled out plenty of money to sign free agents Gibril Wilson (Giants), Javon Walker (Broncos) and DeAngelo Hall (trade/Falcons). Bringing back defensive end Tommy Kelly was huge as well.
Even though they’re considered long shots, there’s actually a decent buzz coming out of Oakland this season with the offseason additions they made. While many NFL pundits will point out that head coach Lane Kiffin is on the hot seat, the team does have talent and some believe that they’ll finally move out of the AFC West basement.
The Raiders are considered long shots at every major sports book. Current prices on the Raiders’ chances to win the 2009 Super Bowl range from 50/1 at Sportsbook.com and Bodog, while SBG Global has Oakland listed at a whopping 100/1.
Oddsmakers have also set the Raiders’ over/under total for wins in 2008 at 6.5, but clearly think Oakland will lose more than 6.5 games considering the under pays out at –150 compared to +120 for the over.
Think the Raiders are going to get steamrolled again this year? Take a deeper look. Their secondary offers incredible talent with Hall, Wilson, Nnamdi Asomugha and Michael Huff. The defensive front seven needs to perform better in 2008, but the defensive backfield should keep the team competitive. Offensively, if quarterback JaMarcus Russell can start fulfilling his immense potential, McFadden might blossom behind him. Could the Raiders be the super sleeper in the AFC?
Oakland Raiders Odds to Win 2009 Super Bowl
SBG Global 100-1
Bodog 50-1
Sportsbook.com 50-1
Oakland Raiders 2008 Regular Season Win Totals Odds
Oakland Raiders Over 6.5 Wins (+120)
Oakland Raiders Under 6.5 Wins (-150)