PRO FOOTBALL DAILY REPORT : RAIDERS : Broncos’ Line Gets Protective

One of the bright spots for the Raiders this season has been the play of the defensive line.

With 34 sacks, the Raiders are tied for second in the AFC. However, they will be tested Sunday against Denver.

The Broncos have not given up a sack in their last three games after giving up 29 in the first seven.

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Tight end Ethan Horton will play Sunday despite an injured sternum. . . . Wide receiver Sam Graddy, who has been on the injured-reserve list because of a broken arm since the fourth game of the season, is expected to begin practice next week.

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Expect a tight game whenever the Raiders play the Broncos. In 15 of the past 18 games, the winning margin has been six points or less. In 12 of the last 18, the games have been decided by three or less. Before losing to Denver, 17-13, to open the season, the Raiders had defeated the Broncos five consecutive times, including a 16-13 victory last year at the Coliseum. . . . Coach Art Shell is 3-0 vs. Denver at the Coliseum.