Oakland Raiders (1-10) at St. Louis Rams (4-7)

Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET, at Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis – TV: CBS

*TV announcers: Andrew Catalon, Steve Beuerlein

*Keys to the game: The Raiders’ first victory over the season displayed the blueprint interim coach Tony Sparano wants to replicate – a strong running game to support rookie QB Derek Carr and a consistent defensive effort.

Oakland’s defense has shown spurts of being a strong unit for much of the season, but too often wears down with the offense failing to control the ball. A key for the Raiders could be the availability of RB Latavius Murray, who showed a combination of power and speed in ripping off a pair of touchdown runs against the Chiefs, only to suffer a concussion from which he is still going through the league’s protocol. Regardless, he has only 14 carries and Darren McFadden and his 3.4 yards per carry will likely receive the bulk of the work against a Rams defense whose one vulnerability lies in allowing an average of 115.8 rushing yards per game.

If the Rams stop the run, look out. Carr has been beat up in long passing situations all season and St. Louis’ pass rush is on a tear.

St. Louis’ offense received some stability with QB Shaun Hill back behind center, only to watch the veteran throw an ill-advised crippling interception in San Diego. The Rams want to feed RB Tre’ Mason and keep Hill out of the teeth of an underrated secondary that will mix pressure and coverage packages.

*Matchup to watch – Raiders OLB Khalil Mack vs. Rams LT Greg Robinson: Mack, the No. 5 overall pick in last spring’s draft, moves around the defense but generally lines up over the left tackle in nickel situations. He has only one sack, but continues to generate consistent pressure. Robinson, the No. 2 overall pick, slid from guard to tackle to replace injured Jake Long, and this will be a matchup of two of the premier young talents at their respective positions.

*Player spotlight – Raiders CB TJ Carrie: Not only is he the slot corner, Carrie is the Raiders’ punt returner. Minus Carrie last week, the Raiders had to send S Charles Woodson to return punts after Denarius Moore muffed one. Carrie (ankle) is expected back this week.

*Fast facts: Woodson is the first player since sacks became an official statistic in 1982 to have 20 sacks and 50 career interceptions.

WHO WILL WIN AND WHY

Credit both teams for continuing to play hard in the face of lost seasons. The Raiders got in the win column, but they face an uphill battle with Carr trying to throw in the face of the league’s most potent pass rush.

*Our pick: Rams 20-9