Jon Gruden returns to the Raiders sideline for the first time since 2001

(KRON) There are no major stakes in play, but Friday night’s Oakland Raiders preseason opener carries great significance for Raiders head coach Jon Gruden.

For the first time since the 2001 season, Gruden will be back on the sidelines for the Silver and Black as the Raiders kick off their exhibition slate against the Detroit Lions.

“I am looking forward to it,” Gruden said. “I am looking forward to it big time. I’ve got some things obviously I’ve got to work out. Anticipating situations, communicating with coaches in the press box, the referees on the field, the new rules interpretations. So I’ve got to work myself through calling plays again and managing some tough situations and I’m anxious to see if I can do it.”

Gruden reunited with the Raiders back in January after spending nearly a decade with ESPN. He reportedly joined the franchise on a 10-year-contract worth $100 million.