Fansided

10 reasons the Oakland Raiders could make the playoffs in 2015

Oct 12, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders helmet on the turf during the second half of the game against the San Diego Chargers at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 12, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders helmet on the turf during the second half of the game against the San Diego Chargers at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports
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Aug 15, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders outside linebacker Khalil Mack (52) is congratulated by outside linebacker Sio Moore (55) after recording a sack against the Detroit Lions in the third quarter at O.co Coliseum. The Raiders defeated the Lions 27-26. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 15, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders outside linebacker Khalil Mack (52) is congratulated by outside linebacker Sio Moore (55) after recording a sack against the Detroit Lions in the third quarter at O.co Coliseum. The Raiders defeated the Lions 27-26. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Khalil Mack and Sio Moore

One of the most underrated linebacker duos in the league is the pair of Raider defenders.

Khalil Mack, the team’s first round draft pick a year ago, was stellar all season long at outside linebacker, shedding blocks and stuffing runs better than almost anyone in the league. He has no weaknesses as a defender, whether in coverage, gap filling or running sideline to sideline, and his potential is limitless. As he develops, he may become among the handful of players considered the best defender in the league.

Sio Moore entered his second year with the Raiders, and was a perfect pairing with Mack. Moore’s instinctive play and willingness to get physical in the trenches gave the Raiders a potent punch at linebacker.

With the two of these players, the Raiders have the basis to develop their defense.

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