In the preseason opener for both teams, the Oilers beat the Raiders, 26-17, in Houston.

For the first time in the team's history, center Jim Otto (knee) did not play.

Guard John Nisby injured his Achilles tendon in the game and his status moving forward was uncertain.

Fullbacks Hewritt Dixon and Pete Banaszak were also hurt in the game, but they weren't expected to miss the next game, against the Chargers on the 13th. Defensive lineman Carleton Oats suffered a pinched nerve in his neck and left the game.