No one with the Raiders would say it after the team's Week 12 loss, but the decision to start Trevor Scott, a backup defensive end, at weak-side linebacker over Thomas Howard was an indication that the club has soured on Howard. Oakland is finally tinkering with its personnel on a disappointing defense, and Scott thrived in his modified role. The second-year player led the team in tackles (five) and matched his career high by making two sacks at Dallas. The Raiders are said to have no intention of moving Scott out of his new spot. Howard still received a good chunk of playing time despite losing his starting job, but he's not as highly thought of as he used to be, and there is uncertainty about just how the organization will approach him when he becomes a restricted free agent in March. Some significant changes could be on the way for the Raiders' defense.

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