This was a bit of a shock, considering the last few years.

But hey, if the NFL wants games that are bound to be sellout, rowdy, and fun to watch, you can't go wrong here.

First of all, I can't remember the last time a game, in oakland, vs a AFC West team, didn't sell out, or for that matter, wasn't a boiling cauldron of emotion.

When it comes to a fire, catching a Raiders game, with the Broncos in town, is like catching a playoff game, the first week in the post-season, and completely changes how these two clubs will bring their players out.

The Raiders and Broncos have no love, and most assured, will seek to make this their "statement" game.

For the Raiders, after last season's breakthrough against the AFC West, it was a dose of payback, after a late field goal robbed the Raiders in overtime, in mile high.

In the second game, in Oakland, however, Shanahan could only wish, for an overtime....2 touchdowns, would seal their fate.

For the Broncos, it's also well known, that Shanahan has no lost love for the Raiders. His belief, that Al Davis still owes him money, to this day, is still a bitter point.

It's also known, that a contingent of Raiders faithful, blame this scoundrel, for sabotaging a Raiders team in the late 80s, canning several well known Raiders, and trading off others, so completely altering the team, that by the time Art Shell took over, the team looked nothing like 1988's squad.

Players like Dokie Williams, Todd Christiansen, Jim Plunkett, and others, were gone.

The bad blood between Davis and Allen, was now out of control.

And to this day, Shanahan's always enjoyed this matchup.

However, last year in Oakland, the phrase, shell-shocked, looked more proper.

To be settled, in Oakland.

If you come.....enjoy the sights, but catch the weekend tailgate party....66th Mob always throws a great weekend bash.

Some of the other things to watch for, in this game:

JaMarcus Russell. This will be his first opening weekend start, and a year removed from his first overall pick, he'll have a full offseason to work with his WR's, and if things work well....possibly McFadden, Bush, or Fargas to hand off to.

Jay Cutler. Heard earlier calling out Marshall for his childish antics, he wants to put more faith in his WR, but a lot of questions remain, if Marshall has matured to stay out of trouble. Rumor now stands, Marshall won't be ready until Training camp time.

Kiffin. Head Coach of the Raiders, his job, is simple. Stick through until the end of the season. If he makes it rain in Oakland, he can get a juicy Contract. If it's dry, well, he'll find gainful employment elsewhere.

Shanahan. A lot rides on him righting the ship, this year. Bowlen, the Broncos Owner, fired the GM, citing lack of success on the team....but if Mike fails to produce, and produce good, Shanahan might be unemployed come the offseason too.