Mueller Will Start for Raiders Sunday If Allen Is Unable to Play

If Marcus Allen can’t play--which is looking more and more likely--rookie Vance Mueller, only a few months removed from Occidental College, will start at running back for the Raiders Sunday against the San Diego Chargers.

“I wouldn’t declare Marcus totally out, but it’s a distinct possibility,” Coach Tom Flores said Thursday. “In that case, Mueller would start, but we’ll use (Napoleon) McCallum, too.”

Marc Wilson, apparently recuperated from the shoulder separation that kept him out of last week’s 14-9 loss to the New York Giants, was directing the first offensive unit in drills and is expected to start at quarterback.

Allen, limping around the practice field in El Segundo, said he was optimistic that his sprained right ankle might be ready for Sunday’s game at the Coliseum.

Mueller, who replaced Allen when he was injured in the third quarter last week, said he was “excited, and a little nervous” at the prospect of starting what will be only his fourth professional game after playing NCAA Division III college football.

“If I start, I’ll just take it as it comes along,” Mueller said. “I’m getting a lot more attention in practice, I know that, and I’ve had to upgrade my concentration level to absorb everything the coaches are telling me.”