New York Giants Come In Middle Of The Pack In Playoff Power Rankings

11. Oakland Raiders

The Raiders looked like a team of destiny throughout the regular season. The organization’s patience was beginning to pay off as the team was rounding into shape as a real threat in the postseason. Even a hand injury to possible MVP candidate David Carr could now slow down this team.

But, the final weeks of the season, things came crashing back down to Earth. The Raiders lost Carr in Week 16 to a season-ending leg injury. Even backup Matt McGloin got injured, leaving the Raiders with rookie Conor Cook as their starter Wild Card Weekend. Cook will be making the first start of his career in the postseason, something that has never been done previously.

To make things worse, the Raiders have to head on the road. Despite their impressive 12-4 record, the Raiders will head on the road because they lost the head-to-head tiebreaker to the Kansas City Chiefs.

A rookie making their first career start in the postseason could spell trouble, especially against a team that excels at home as much as the Texans do. What was a very promising season turned sour quickly for Oakland. Their defense gives them a fighting chance, but the loss of Carr will be a monumental one to overcome for Cook.