The Oakland Raiders' first two preseason games have been a reality check for a mistake-prone first-team offense lacking in star power.
Matt Schaub can't drive the ball outside the numbers or down the seam -- and defenses know it after watching film of a quarterback lacking faith in his arm for over a year now.
The Raiders' brain trust believes, however, that Schaub is ready to return to solid starter status, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Monday's edition of NFL Total Access.
There is no quarterback controversy, Rapoport emphasized, and rookie Derek Carr is not a threat to start the season opener.
The Raiders understand Schaub's waning arm strength and the accompanying scrutiny of their plan, but they believe the offensive line, rushing attack and adjusted game plans will allow him to perform at a functional level until Carr is ready.
Even if that's not exactly a commitment to excellence, the plan will draw the organization closer to respectability if it succeeds.
The latest "Around The League Podcast" recaps all of the action from the second week of the preseason.