We open with Oakland at home and it's very important that we get a win and get off to a fast start. Winning is contagious. We don't want to be in a situation like we were in last year where we get off to a slow start, then miss the playoffs by a game or two.

There's a lot of talent on this team and guys have really stepped up and filled some holes. We've got to be solid in all aspects of the game and try to get after the Raiders early if we can.

Oakland has a solid team with a strong running game with Darren McFadden and Michael Bush and an excellent tight end in Zach Miller plus some other weapons behind a solid line. Our defense has a lot of new faces and a lot of guys have to step up into new roles, but they have been doing that to this point. Now they just have to do it in a game situation. We want to go hard to the ball, be violent and create havoc on every play. This defense is geared up for a great season and we're looking forward to showing that on Sunday. We're excited to be healthy at the right time and we worked so hard during the off-season and training camp. The veterans are smarter and wiser and I think everyone is where they need to be at this point.

I'm glad we're opening up in front of our home fans, that will be a big spark for the young guys. We have a lot of confidence and I'm just excited to get back on the field. We're all riled up to just get out there and play.