The Raiders, playing their second of three straight games vs. NFC Central competition, arrive in Minnesota for the first time since 1990 looking to extend their edge in this interconference tilt.

While Raiders own a 7-3 overall advantage in the standings (including a 32-14 triumph in Super Bowl XI at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena), Vikings managed a 16-13 overtime triumph on a Sunday evening (ESPN) in Oakland in 1996 in the most recent battle between the clubs.

The Raiders have split their previous four road tilts in this series, including a 1-1 mark at the Metrodome--their last visit to Minnesota resulting in a 28-24 triumph in 1990.

Numbers: After committing just 14 turnovers in their first eight games (6-2) in 1998, the Raiders have committed 30 turnovers in their last 9 contests (2-7). After allowing just 175 points in their first 10 games in 1998 (7-3), the Raiders have allowed 209 points in their last 7 games (1-6).

Vikings WR Cris Carter has scored at least one touchdown in four straight games and 26 of his last 38 regular-season contests dating back to '96. Since 1996, Vikings have 83 takeaways in 34 wins, 16 takeaways in 15 losses in 48 regular-season contests.

Things To Look For: It looked like more of the same for Jon Gruden's team from a year ago as the Oakland defense played hard and dominated the line of scrimmage, while the rest of the team couldn't get the job done. No doubt most will be watching the matchup between '98 Rookies of the Year Raiders CB Charles Woodson and Vikings WR Randy Moss, but the Minnesota offensive line will be the key to this contest.

Etc.: After opening 7-3 under head coach Jon Gruden, the Raiders are 1-6 in their last 7 games dating back to '98. The Raiders are 22-15 vs. NFC teams in the 1990s (0-1 in '99).

The Vikings are 18-10 vs. AFC teams under head coach Dennis Green dating back to 1992 (4-0 in '98). The Vikings have won nine straight home games dating back to '97. The Vikings have won nine straight games dating back to '98. WR Cris Carter (103) needs two touchdowns to tie Don Hutson (105) for 9th place on the NFL's all-time touchdowns scored list.