Redskins vs Raiders Betting Odds - Is Washington due for a breakthrough?

Redskins vs Raiders betting odds don't exactly remind you of their old Super Bowl days in the 1980s, but this should be a close game nonetheless. Both clubs have played more inspired football as of late - Washington since it dumped the Broncos last month, and Oakland since it replaced its starting quarterback. So who should sports betting fans give the edge to?

Redskins vs Raiders betting odds maker breakdown: The Storyline
Raiders fans have suffered through a typically wacky and frustrating season. Former first-overall pick JaMarcus Russell was finally benched and Bruce Gradkowski has produced results in his stead, winning two of three starts for the Raiders - including last week's 27-24 victory over Pittsburgh.

The Redskins have dropped three straight, but they've been quite competitive lately. All three losses came by a total of seven points, including last week's 33-30 overtime defeat at the hands of New Orleans. Jim Zorn probably can't save his job, but some of his players can if they keep fighting.

Redskins vs Raiders betting odds maker breakdown: Offense
Washington's offense has been surprisingly competent the last few weeks, when it managed 24 and 30 points. Quarterback Jason Campbell, who has been whipping boy for Skins fans all season, threw for 368 yards and three touchdowns against the Saints. Injuries have destroyed the backfield, however, and its unlikely Campbell will keep up this pace.

Gradkowski was sensational against the Steelers last week, tossing three touchdowns and 308 yards. Performances like that certainly won't be the norm, but the offense is much better in his hands than Russell's. The running game is non-existent, as Oakland has had a running back surpass 100 yards just once this season.

Betting Edge: Even

Redskins vs Raiders betting odds maker breakdown: Defense
Washington's defense has let the team down over the past few weeks. The "D" has played well through most of the season but, at this point, is pretty worn down. The Skins aren't great at stopping the run, having allowed 121 yards per game, so they'll have to beware of Raiders running back Darren McFadden. He's struggled but remains a big-play threat.

Oakland is even worse at stopping the run, ranking 30th in the NFL. There are some solid players here, but overall there isn't much to look at. The pass defense is decent but doesn't produce much in the way of big plays; Oakland has just eight interceptions and 25 sacks this season.

Betting Edge: Redskins

Redskins vs Raiders betting odds maker breakdown: Notable Injuries
Washington's backfield has been ravaged by injuries - Clinton Portis, Mike Sellers and Ladell Betts are injured. Corner DeAngelo Hall is dealing with back spasms and could miss this week. Oakland's offensive line will be shorthanded; Robert Gallery is done of rthe year with a back strain, while Samson Satele has an injured calf.

Betting Edge: Even

Redskins vs Raiders betting odds for total: 37.5
These are two bad offenses that have managed to find a way to score over the past few weeks. Both teams are susceptible to the run but neither Oakland nor Washington can run the ball right now. They'll have to turn to the pass, which both defend well. Bet the under at your sportsbook.

Pick: UNDER 37.5

Redskins vs Raiders betting breakdown: Outlook and Pick
Washington and Oakland haven't turned a corner, but they are playing competitive football right now. The Raiders look energized with Gradkowski under center, but you can't overlook how hard the Redskins are playing despite all the adversity. Look for the Washington to take advantage of a depleted Raiders offensive line and finally get a much-deserved win.

STAN'S PICK: Redskins -1

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