Guarded optimism is how I feel about this game. If this was back during week 4 or 5 I would just be plan optimistic, however, I think we've learned it doesn't matter who we are playing it's important not to underestimate them. I completely expect a win against the Raiders and anything less is a failure. Not even considering the Panther Offensive side of the ball, our defense should hold it's own. Unless there is a complete lack of focus, we shouldn't lose this game because of our defense.

I expect our defense to be dominate. We've had a extra week to prepare or rather to get some of the injured players extra time to heal. With the exception of Jonathan Stewart, the other big names should be playing this week. However, on the Raiders side they are in bad shape. They rank last in the league in points scored per game (13.4), while our defense ranks 3rd in point allowed (15.9). Getting specific, their passing offense is ranked 29th while the Panthers passing D currently ranks 8th, but again that was after our last game against the Cardinals. Previously we were 2nd, I expect our passing defense to rise once again on the charts after Sunday.

Staying on the passing subject, upon checking the Raiders injury reports it appears QB JaMarcus Russell is questionable for the game. But you know what it doesn't end there, the backup QB Andrew Walter is probable for the game. This means the Raiders will try to move the ball on the ground a bit more.

On this side they are ranked a respectable 8th in the league is rushing yards per game. And while our rushing defense is ranked 14th, we have held in check some of the big name backs in the league. I won't name them but we have also faced 5 of the top 15 current rushing leaders and all but Bucs RB Earnest Graham, held them to under 100 yards. The Bucs was the only game we have allowed a 100 yards rusher all season. In another example of what shape they are in, the 22nd ranked Falcons rushing defense held the Raiders running banks to a combined 21 yards. Their top rusher last week was Russell for 46 yards, a total of 67 net yards on the ground. Also, their rookie RB Darren McFadden is listed as questionable this week.

With all this in mind it's a bit hard to specifically list any key match-ups on our defensive side of the ball. But here's what I have come up with.

Panthers D-Line vs Raiders RB Justin Fargas

With the Raiders passing game in bad shape the secondary should be able to hold their own. This means the Panthers D-Line should receive plenty of help from Jon Beason and crew and also if needed a safety dropping in the box.

Panthers LB vs Raider TE Zack Miller

With Zack Miller the teams top receiver, if he can stay covered, the rest of the passing game should go into remission as well. He has 22 receptions; WR Javon Walker and RB Michael Bush are next with 13 each.

Panthers LE Charles Johnson vs Raiders LT Kwame Harris

Charles Johnson has been stepping up all season. With news that Harris may start splitting time with his backup doesn't give confidence in his play. Combine the two points and Johnson could very well see plenty of time in the backfield. Some may wonder if Johnson actually lined up behind the Raiders Offensive line at time. I don't talk about fantasy match-up here, but if your league uses IDP, he maybe a great addition this week.

----

I will once again say I'm have guarded optimism for this game. The Raiders are headed in the wrong direction right now and barring a miracle that shouldn't change. Carolina has a solid team and should become 7-2 after Sunday, I would even be willing to put money on another shutout this weekend, however, I won't be disappointed if that doesn't happen.

Prediction: Carolina 35, Raiders 6