West Coasting: New England Patriots pound Oakland Raiders 49-26
New England Patriots concluded their second West Coast road trip of the 2008 season by pounding the Oakland Raiders 49-26. The game was never close but the fireworks was pretty entertaining at times, including touchdowns on three straight plays (not counting point after touchdown kicks). Patriots runningback LaMont Jordan ran for 97 yard son 12 carries, one went for 49 yards and a touchdown, in his return to the Black Hole. Sammy Morris ran for 117 yards on 14 carries and one touchdown. Quarterback Matt Cassel tossed four touchdown passes,a career high for him, to of which were caught by wide receiver Randy Moss. Wide receiver Wes Welker also snagged one, as did runningback Kevin Faulk.
Tight end Benjamin Watson had a pass bounce off his chest which resulted in a Raiders interception. Watson finished the day with zero catches for zero yards.
The bad news of the day was that starting left tackle Matt Light had to leave a game with an injury. Backup Mark LeVoir did a decent job as back up but also gave up a sack.
The victory put New England’s record at 9-5 and in a three-way tie for first place in the AFC East with two games remaining in the season.
Outside linebacker Mike Vrabel is a funny guy:
The fast start was our emphasis and when it works, it’s good. We were prepared and we came out ready to go. We tried playing from behind last week and that’s a lot harder than it is like we did today.
Fred Kirsch is pretty funny, too: “Patriots pillage and plunder Raiders” Something you left out, Mr. Kirsch?
