Raiders Bench Left Tackle Kwame Harris

Through the first six years of his career, Oakland Raiders left tackle Kwame Harris hasn't exactly lived up to the expectations that come with being the No. 26 overall pick in the NFL draft. After being, basically, a bust of a selection for the 49ers, Harris moved across the bay prior to this season and inked a three-year, $16 million deal with the Raiders.

Thus far, the move has been maddening, if not completely frustrating, for the Raiders and their fans. Fortunately (I think) for silver and black faithful, the madness is coming to an end this Sunday, when Harris is going to be taking a seat on the bench in favor of Mario Henderson when the Raiders host New England.

According to Raiders beat writer Jerry McDonald, the reason for the benching is because Harris can't seem to grasp the concept that offensive lineman aren't allowed to move before the snap, and because he's been a turnstile when it comes to protecting JaMarcus Russell's blindside.

Through the first 13 games, Harris has been flagged for 11 false start penalties, which is nearly double what any other player in the league has. And in case you're wondering -- and I know you are -- the No. 2 guy in the NFL in false starts is also a Raider, right tackle Cornell Green, who has six. Well done, gentlemen. At least you're leading the league in something.

Henderson is going to get quite a challenge on Sunday, when he gets to face a Patriots team fighting for a playoff spot. If there's a positive for him, it's that the New England defense is extremely banged up, with defensive lineman Vince Wilfork and Ty Warren being limited in practice this week, while they're relying on Junior Seau and, probably, Dick Butkus to suit up at linebacker.

Still, if I'm Russell, I'm hoping every play call is a run.