It’s hard to hate someone without intimately getting to know them.
Josh McDaniels and his relatively new band of Broncos, though, received a bad enough first impression of the Raiders last year to at least accelerate their dislike for Al Davis’ franchise.
“There’s definitely some hatred — in the right sense of the word — from some of the people that are here, no question about it,” McDaniels said at his Friday morning press conference. “Now, there’s some guys that are learning to hate them. I think that’s the best way to say it.
“That doesn’t mean you disrespect anybody. And we have a tremendous amount of respect for them and what they do, the way they play. There’s a line you don’t cross there.
“But I think in terms of our desire to beat the Raiders, to win a division game against the Raiders and understanding the rivalry, the history, I think that’s clearly there. And the guys who aren’t quite up to speed are catching up pretty quickly.”
The Broncos play the Raiders this Sunday at Invesco Field at Mile High. In the previous two seasons of this rivalry, the visiting team won all four games.
In the game at Invesco Field last season, injuries forced the Raiders to play, first, Charlie Frye, then J.P. Losman, and then JaMarcus Russell. They still won, 20-19. None of those three quarterbacks are with the Raiders today, although again, the Raiders have three quarterbacks who may or may not play because of injuries — Bruce Gradkowski, Jason Campbell and Kyle Boller.
Injury updates
…McDaniels also said slot receiver/returner Eddie Royal would test his injured groin at practice today. He is also hopeful defensive end Kevin Vickerson could play with his groin injury. Cornerback Champ Bailey is expected to play despite bruised ribs.
…Strong safety Brian Dawkins is expected to miss his second consecutive game with a knee injury. Also out are outside linebacker Robert Ayers (broken foot) and special teams standouts Wesley Woodyard (hamstring) and Darcel McBath (ankle).
