Oakland’s season opener against Cincinnati was thought to be a friendly reunion between former Alabama players AJ McCarron, Dre Kirkpatrick and Wallace Gilberry of Cincinnati and Amari Cooper of Oakland, but it quickly turned into aggression, physicality and heated actions.
It’s understood that Cincinnati hates Cleveland; however, Sunday provided fans with the Bengals hatred for Oakland. Raiders’ wideout Amari Cooper was targeted nine times, totaling five receptions for 47 yards. He had 14-yard reception in the fourth quarter that set up a score.
Both team combined for 82 penalty yards off 11 fouls with the worst one coming in the second quarter. Bengals’ veteran cornerback Adam “Pacman” Jones has always been one to do a little extra after each play. He decides to welcome Cooper in the NFL, by ripping off his helmet and shoving his head against it. Jones was flagged for unnecessary roughness, but stayed in the game.
He could face suspension if the NFL deems the action worthy of it. Cincinnati won the contest 33-13, and will return to Paul Brown Stadium next week to host the San Diego Chargers.
Oakland will stay at home next week to host the Baltimore Ravens of the AFC West.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
