ESPN Predicts Their 5 Best NFL Teams in 2017

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Sep 11, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Oakland Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio talks to quarterback Derek Carr (4) in the second quarter of their game against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /

Oakland Raiders (11-5)

"“Can the Raiders actually be better than they were last year and have a poorer record? Yes. They begin with three of their first four games on the road and end with the same three of four on the road. After going 12-4 last season, they have the fourth-toughest strength of schedule in the NFL, and another “home” game in Mexico City, this time against the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots.”"

This will be banking on the belief that Derek Carr returns to his All-Pro form. He was the one who carried the Raiders to their first playoff berth in 14 years last season. They’ll need him more than ever in what is clearly the most stacked division in the NFL. Improving the defense and getting him a running game (hello Mr. Lynch) would immensely help matters. An unheralded part of what might make this season difficult is the looming knowledge that this franchise will be moving to a new home in a few years. Distractions hurt, even if they aren’t immediate.

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