Times like these I’m glad I’m into other sports..(how dare you not pay attention to the NBA playoffs..)

Behold, it’s day 1 billion of the off season and the draft has ended, now what???
The Nation falls back into slumber, works out during the Summer, takes a vacation and goes back into hibernation until once again the time calls for cheering on the Silver and Black at the beautiful Oakland Coliseum..
unless, of course..you’re a die hard.
I’m guessing if you’re reading these blogs, daily Oakland Tribune stories or Jerry M’s takes, you are MORE than qualified to be titled as such.
I mean, it’s not like you need a Darth Vader mask, Skull belt and cape to represent your team..

So what’s the latest and greatest info that a Die Hard Oakland Raider fan needs to know???

Anyone for May Mini camp interviews?

MICHAEL BUSH
Q: Was it awkward being in the rookie mini-camp a year after you were drafted?
Michael Bush: Yes, it’s awkward but at the same time I love it. I have been out of football. I am just happy to be out there doing football plays and getting out there running around and showing everybody that I am healthy and showing the coaches that I am fine and ready to play.
Q: What kind of situation do you think you are in because they just drafted a running back and Justin Fargas just signed a long-term deal?
Michael Bush: Nowadays the league is doing two backs or rotating three backs sometimes and we still got Justin Fargas there. Right now I have really been worried about myself.
Q: Compare this situation to the one Fargas was in last year when he was sort of under the radar. They had LaMont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes and all of a sudden he ends up being the guy. Do you take something from the way Justin handled his business last year?
Michael Bush: I’ve actually talked to Justin about it. He said, “It’s okay. Just hang in there.” I wasn’t really nervous about not playing, I was worrying about where I would stand in an offensive standpoint. Things happen.
Q: Have you been told by the coach what your role is going to be?
Michael Bush: No, I haven’t been told. Right now I am just worried about getting the playbook down and just getting out there and running around and getting as much knowledge of the game as I can.
Q: How is the leg and is it 100 percent? If so, what was the time line on a full recovery?
Michael Bush: The leg has been 100 percent for a while. Last year I was ready to play. I practiced with them for three weeks when was on the PUP list. I haven’t had any problems out of it or don’t feel anything from it. Sometimes I don’t even notice that it was broken except for this large knot that I have on it. Other than that I am fine.
Q: How hard was it last year when you found out that you weren’t going to play?
Michael Bush: It was tough but at the same time by the time they told me I wasn’t playing the season was just about over. I was just happy I was able to stick around and get more of a chip on my shoulder for this year to come out and play and show them what I can do.
Q: Do you think this could have been a blessing in disguise?
Michael Bush: I think so. Maybe something else may have happened if they did play me but I feel like I saved my body for another year. I’m just looking forward to this year.
Q: You said that even after they drafted Darren (McFadden) that you are still happy with your situation. Why are you still happy?
Michael Bush: I think the coaches still know what I can bring to the table as well. I’ve never doubted myself at any point. As far as the team, they brought in the best guy on the board at the time. It’s good because it also helps us out as a winning team. Any time you bring in new guys that help our team is good I think.
Q: What were your impressions of Darren at practice yesterday?
Michael Bush: He looks good and fast. He has that speed and quickness, he has good hands and he’s a good guy too. Just talking to him, he’s like myself, kind of quiet but we’re starting to talk a little more. All the rookies come in kind of shy and worried about what’s going on but he’s a good guy too.
Q: You spent most of last year either working by yourself or with two or three other guys that were in rehab while your team practiced right next to you. How hard was that mentally and were there any low points throughout that process?
Michael Bush: No, because I was still doing something that I loved to do. To me, I was training, basically, to one day get on the field. There weren’t any low points. I was out there focusing on my conditioning, trying to get right in every aspect of the game as far as quickness and speed. I was still in the meeting rooms as well. Just being in the locker room with the guys was kind of cool as well.
Q: Does McFadden’s versatility make it more challenging for other teams to game plan against you?
Michael Bush: Yeah, it makes it harder for defenses to prepare for our offense. We can finesse you, pound you. He (McFadden) can use his speed outside and catch a ball and also get in the backfield and use his speed to get around the corner. That’s a good thing that he is on our side and everyone is going to have to prepare for us.
Q: Are you enjoying yourself, running plays and playing football? How eager are you to get in a real game?
Michael Bush: I’ve been telling people that my season starts the first pre-season game. It’s been a long haul for me, just sitting out and not being able to do something you love. Just going out there and being with the team, in the huddles, it’s just exciting to me right now.

RUN DMC!!!
Q: What was it like yesterday getting out there and seeing some action?
McFadden: It was great being able to get back out there on the field, been doing a lot of working out just on your own and stuff, being able to get out there and run plays and be around teammates and just get to know everyone is a great deal.
Q: How are they accepting you, with open arms or keeping their distance?
McFadden: I feel like they are accepting me with open arms, anything I needed help with they have been helping out and that’s something I have been looking forward to being able to get out here and get going in full blast.
Q: What is your impression of Lane Kiffin?
McFadden: I feel like he is a great coach, he tries to use his players and move them around a bit, I feel like it is something he may try with me.
Q: What was your first thought when you saw the playbook?
McFadden: They hand you a playbook with pens and highlighters with a notebook to take notes, that’s something you don’t get in college, if you want to take notes you have to come with your own stuff, so I knew it was serious once they handed the playbook like that.
Q: Do you feel having a shared duties fits you well?
McFadden: I feel like something like that will help out in the NFL system because it is hard for a guy to go out there and go every down, it is hard on the running back, especially in the NFL. You have linebackers and defensive ends running 4.4’s so being able to have a fresh guy will help the team out a whole lot.
Q: Did you have set series at Arkansas that you knew before the game, how did that work?
McFadden: Coach would just rotate us on certain plays, sometimes we just go out there and when one of feel like were gassed, we just tell the other one to come in.
Q: Were you ever on the field together?
McFadden: Yes sir, we were on the field together several times, we had a formation that we ran called the Wildcat, which put us both back there, I was the quarterback and Felix was a lot of times the slot receiver.
Q: Did they tend to run the same running plays for you and for Felix as opposed to having some that you were better at and some he was better at?
McFadden: I think we switched it up a whole lot, it just depended on who we were playing against and the type of defense they were running.
Q : Have you been able to meet [Raiders Owner] Al Davis the last few days?
McFadden: Yes sir, I got to meet him when I came out on my visit when I was getting drafted and then I met him when I came out for my press conference Sunday after the draft.
Q: Impressions of him?
McFadden: He is a great guy, he has been around for a long time, he has a lot of history and you can tell he is very passionate for the game still.
Q: How different is the playbook from college?
McFadden: There are some similarities, you just have to learn their verbiage and how they decide to call it out, but I feel like it’s is pretty similar but it’s still a lot I have to learn.
Q: What are you going over in your team meetings?
McFadden: They were putting offensive plays in right off the bat, so when we came out for Friday practice we’d be ready.
Q: Lane Kiffin says he doesn’t want to throw everything at you [at once]. Would you like everything thrown at you?
McFadden: For me, I’d say I’d like it because I’m a competitor. But at the same time, it’s good to get a few things so that you can understand and get the concept of. Once you get the concepts of the first part of it, it’s a lot easier to catch on to the rest of it when they throw it at you.
Q: How much are they throwing at you right now?
McFadden: I don’t feel like they threw too much at me right now. Basic running plays and pass protection is just something I’m trying to catch on to right now.

The Die hards can’t wait for more…
Yo, Pumpkin!! Happy Madres day!

ps Can you believe they already have #20 McFadden Jerseys on sale??? Let’s just hope this 1st rounder comes to camp on time!!!!

For those of you who are wondering, my draft day went something like this..

“What up, foo?”
“I’d knew you’d call..I mean really, it’s about damn time!!”
“Hey, man, I had to play Basketball earlier this morning..so who’d we-”
“364 F$##@$ other days you can play ball and you choose THIS day..”
“Shut the hell up! You know my fitness is more important than a few minutes of-”
“I can’t believe you just said that…364 days!!! What, you need me for more insight on your infamous stupid blog!?!?!!”
“WILL U SHUT THE HELL UP AND TELL ME WHO WE PICKED???”
“Nah, man, I’m not telling you..”
“You’ve GOT to be F##@^ing kidding me.This is so F%^&ing wrong..”
“Knowing who you are, you SHOULD be watching this sh-”
“CHRIS LONG!!! We got Chris Long!!!”
“If you read the correct reports, you’d know that foo would be gone by pick #4!”
“Shut the hell-…Mcfadden!!?!?!!”
“Hmm..should I tell ya?”
“Son of a Beeaa..”
“We got Mcfadden…”

The man on the other end of the cel was my good friend, Master Chad. We’ve known each other since High school and has better insight than most of the Oakland Raider fans on the planet.
He’s actually worked with Raiders a while back and has the gift of having Coaches eyes.
That means while you’re looking at a JaMarcus Russell TD pass..
he’s looking at the blocking from the entire line..
While you’re seeing a man open..
He’s seeing the Quarterback pressured..
While you’re watching the Defensive line not penetrating..
He’s watching the Offensive line holding.
I’d like to say I have the same talent, but the truth is, it’s harder to see what he saw with a 105 degree helmet on your head.
Ha! He’ll probably say that’s no excuse….shut up, foo.

The point of all of this jabber is this;
I’m hoping you all have a friend like this to answer all of your sports questions you need to know on a regular basis.
No, I will not miss your ass if you move to New Jersey, bitch…
only Kay and Jonah.

Soooo… is he a good pick? You can’t really say he wasn’t. I mean if you see his profile and read all of the interviews, you’d know this guy is a playmaker. If you need to know more, hey check his 2007 profile, son…

Before the 2007 season, McFadden was believed to be one of the top NFL draft picks after the 2007 season if he declared for the 2008 NFL Draft. In Sports Illustrated’s website, a photo gallery chronicling the best possible candidates in the 2008 draft was tipped as the number 1 pick. McFadden was also predicted to be a front-runner for many awards, including the Doak Walker, the Maxwell, the Walter Camp Player of the Year, and the Heisman.
McFadden began the 2007 season with five consecutive games in which he gained at least 120 yards. Highlighting these were a 195 yard effort against Alabama, a 151 yard game against Troy, and a 173 yard effort against Kentucky. After this stretch of games, McFadden looked to be a lock for the Heisman trophy, at the top of generally every watch list. But in the next three weeks, McFadden tallied only 43, 110, and 61 yards against Auburn, Ole Miss, and Florida International, respectively. After these three games, McFadden had gone from being at the top of the lists, to near the bottom, or in some cases, off.
On November 3, 2007, McFadden tied the Southeastern Conference single-game rushing record (Frank Mordica, Vanderbilt, 1978 vs. Air Force) with 321 yards rushing against the South Carolina. An 80 yard run highlighted McFadden’s day, as well as preserved the Arkansas win.
The next two weeks, McFadden rushed for 117 yards in a loss to Tennessee and 88 yards in a win against Mississippi State.
On November 23, 2007, McFadden led Arkansas to a 50-48 triple overtime victory over the #1 ranked LSU Tigers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, winning the Battle for the Golden Boot for Arkansas. McFadden rushed 32 times for 206 yards and 3 TD’s, and completed 3 of 6 pass attempts for 34 yards, also throwing a touchdown to Peyton Hillis. The Wildhog formation was key for McFadden and the Hogs, as the majority of McFadden’s yards came when he received the snap.
By any measure, McFadden’s 2007 season was a success: McFadden was selected as the Sporting News magazine National Player of the Year, was a consensus 1st Team All-American for the second straight season, won the Doak Walker Award for the second year in a row (only the second person to ever win it twice, Ricky Williams of Texas), was selected as the SEC Offensive Player of the Year by SEC coaches, and he was also awarded the Walter Camp Award (given to the nation’s best overall player).
McFadden is second all-time in career rushing yards in the SEC behind only Herschel Walker of Georgia (5,259), and is also currently holds seventh place for the SEC career record touchdowns with 40. McFadden has 1,829 yards rushing on 325 carries and 16 TD’s, plus he has thrown for 4 TD’s, and has 1 TD reception. He leads the SEC and is third in the nation in rushing yards.
On December 6, 2007, McFadden was announced as the winner of the Walter Camp Award and as the winner of the Doak Walker Award. He became only the second person (along with Ricky Williams) in history to win the Doak Walker Award twice. McFadden finished as the runner-up for the 2007 Heisman Trophy for the second year in a row. He was runner-up to Tim Tebo of the Florida Gators, making him the first person since 1949 to finish second in Heisman voting in consecutive years. Additionally, he was, for the second consecutive season, a consensus All-America selection.

He is the most decorated player in school history, and holds virtually all of the universities rushing records, and is also in a number of the SEC’s all-time top 10 rushing spots. After Arkansas lost 38-7 to Missouri (and fellow 2007 Heisman finalist QB Chase Daniel) in the January 1, 2008 Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas, McFadden decided to forgo his senior season and declare for the 2008 NFL Draft on January 14, 2007…
and here we are.
Wow, 4,589 total yards in 3 years….not bad.

Yeah, I know a lot of you wanted Dorsey. Although, if the Coaches think Kelly will be better at this position..
then I think so…
as…uh… well???
Reassure me, Lane Train!!!

Kiffin: It wasn’t only because the position. As you look at Glenn, he’s going to be a great three-technique in this league. To take a guy fourth overall and put him at nose with Tommy Kelly already there at three-technique just doesn’t make very much sense to do. To pay a guy what you’re going to pay a guy in the fourth slot and move him to nose, which isn’t even his natural position, it’s just too hard of a switch to do. Glenn’s a great player. I actually was hoping he wasn’t going right after us so we’ve got to play him twice a year. I was hoping he’d go somewhere else. It just didn’t make sense.

Only time will tell who made the right decision…
us or KC?
May the force be with us….

DR

Darth’s Turn..
I’m not as good as selecting as the rest of the media, but here are my best guesses on the top 10 players selected in the 2008 NFL draft….
(Who really cares for the rest of ‘em? I’m actually going back to bed after the 4th pick..)

1. Miami Dolphins–OT Jake Long, Michigan.
Easy call…or is it? HE’S GETTING TRADED??? Can’t they keep anyone?!?!? snicker..

2. St. Louis Rams–DT Glenn Dorsey, LSU.
I agree and I’m sure the world agrees….. the best defensive player on the board.

3. Atlanta Falcons–QB Matt Ryan, Boston College
Vick plays with dogs, so they need a replacement.

4. Oakland Raiders–DE Chris Long, Virginia.
I also believe if Dorsey or Long are selected by this time, we’re going to go with McFadden…The reason for this is clear. Al Davis LOVES the guy and told many people the exact same thing. Trade Bait? Perhaps….but only if we can get a D-linemen out of it.
BTW.. love the nickname: RUN DMC.

5. Kansas City Chiefs–G-T Branden Albert, Virginia.
More of a wall to help the bastard which is; Larry Johnson.

6. New York Jets–RB Darren McFadden, Arkansas.
PARTY TIME IN NYC! Hope he doesn’t make the same mistakes as Donald Strickland, a reserve defensive back for the 49ers, was arrested earlier this month in downtown San Jose on suspicion of being drunk in public. HAHAHHAAHHAHAHAAA!

7. New England Patriots–CB Leodis McKelvin, Troy
Asante Samuel gone..they address their need.

8. Baltimore Ravens– CB Dominique Rodgers, Tennessee State
They’ll always have a great D in my mind. This move makes them even stronger.

9. Cincinnati Bengals–DT Sedrick Ellis, USC
Don’t be surprised if the Raiders take Mr Ellis, if we trade down.

10. New Orleans Saints–WR Devin Thomas, Michigan State
Improving their Offense. I believe this team will bounce back from hell this year.

YAWN!!!!!!
back to my slumber….WHAT?!?!?! I’m playing Basketball this afernoon? Damn you gut, for giving me the inspiration!!!
Holla at ya again soon, Nation..
DR

Whatup Nation???!?!
Pop Quiz, Hotshot! So if YOU were given the choice to offer your #4 overall pick for Mr. Ocho Cinco OR get a quality Defensive linemen in the draft, what would you do???
WHAT DO YOU DO????!?!??!??
This question keeps boggling Darth’s mind. Maybe Cincinnati will take the bait…
or not.
Apparently, the unhappy Chad Johnson story is not going away…..

Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson left no room for doubt Wednesday: He wants out of Cincinnati as fast as possible and he doesn’t plan on reporting for any future Bengal function — mandatory or voluntary.
What spurred Johnson’s immediate reaction was a statement made by quarterback Carson Palmer that indicated Johnson had told Palmer he would be at the team’s mandatory minicamp in mid-June. Johnson said that wasn’t true.
“I want to make this very clear,” Johnson said Wednesday. “I don’t know where he got that. I made no assertion to Carson that I would do that. Nothing has changed from what I’ve been saying for three months that I don’t want to play for the Bengals.”
Johnson made one of his strongest statements in saying he is not planning on reporting to any team functions because he wants to be traded.
“I want to be traded before the draft, and if that doesn’t happen, I want to be traded as soon as possible,” Johnson said. “I don’t intend on reporting to anything.”
The Bengals said they have no comment in response to Johnson’s statements. A team spokesman pointed to coach Marvin Lewis’ statement at the owners meeting that he has fully discussed the Johnson situation and didn’t feel it was productive to talk about it again.
Johnson is skipping the team’s offseason workouts as he tries to push for a trade. But the Bengals have also made it clear that they have no plans of trading him.
Lewis has said repeatedly that the team has no plans to deal Johnson, despite the wide receiver making the rounds of radio and television talk shows to voice his displeasure about his situation in Cincinnati.
In a February interview with Jim Rome, Johnson said he felt he was being blamed for the Bengals’ problems and disappointing showing last season.
“I’m not allowed to say. I get the blame; the so-called best player, I’m the problem,” he said. “Someone in-house is spreading this. Maybe they want me to quiet down [and] stop being me. That is not going to happen. I can’t function that way. I tried it. It sucked. There was no excitement.”
Last month, on ESPN’s First Take, Johnson again hinted at wanting a trade.
“I want to continue my career wherever I have the opportunity to win a playoff game and get to the Super Bowl. That’s where I want to be,” he said.
Wednesday, the Pro Bowl wide receiver said he was surprised by Palmer’s comments about his possibly reporting to mandatory camp.
“I wish he would stay out of my business,” Johnson said.
Damn, it’s getting ugly in Cinci..
Peace,
DR

There’s nothing like a peaceful Sunday.

No one is mowing the lawn outside..
no one is in the house….
God turns on the mute button…
birds actually fly to the window..
the Warrior game is on..
I’m not thinking about my team losing..
and the Raiders open with Denver on Monday night.

A cool breeze comes from the window..
I tear up bacon, eggs and tots..
I enjoy the hangover healing icy Gatorade..(my all time personal favorite remedy for anything)
i remember Chris Rock jokes from the other night..
and we open the pre-season with hosting the 49ers..

The bed is still warm..
the Sun finally shows..
I get calls from friends..
the cat jumps on the couch..
my headache is gone..
and Lane Kiffin cleared up his status with the Oakland Raiders.

Yeah, I still remember at least a dozen writers and two dozen fans shouting in their own meaningless way of words
“He will NOT coach again for your team in 2008! Trust me!”
My response was always the same..
“..If you don’t have personal chats with Lane or Al??
..just shut the hell up..”

Nation, it feels so damn good to have dreams in April.
I dream about the draft..
I dream about Javon Walker proving to his former team that he’s still worth a damn on Monday night..
I dream about JaMarcus progressing as a leader, not a Rookie..
I dream about several interceptions from Nnamdi and D-Hall..
I dream about sacks from Burgess Burger and Captain Kirk..
I dream about Justin breaking his own personal best rushing record..
and the world just makes sense.

BTW..
Can someone tell me when Vernon Gholston became relevant to the conversation regarding the draft?
I swear I turn off the tube for a wee bit and I miss something..
someone turn on NFL Network for me, damnit!!!!

VERNON GHOLSTON NOTES
Vernon Gholston is a remarkable talent, but he’s only just begun realizing his vast potential.
He never picked up a football until his sophomore year in high school and had just one season of defensive experience as a linebacker before being converted to defensive end when he arrived at Ohio State.
Blessed with incredible speed (clocked at 4.56 in the 40-yard dash), long limbs and superb strength, Gholston is the prototype pass rusher that professional teams look for — big, fast, strong and explosive. An avid performer in the weight room, he boasted the best bench press on the team at 455 pounds. He also put on an impressive performance for teammates, squatting 405 pounds 20 times.
In 2007, Gholston earned All-American recognition and was a finalist for the Ted Hendricks Award, given to the nation’s top defensive end. He posted 37 tackles (25 solo) and was a terror in the backfield, ranking eighth in the nation with 15.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage and second nationally with 14 sacks. He also scooped up a fumble and returned it for a 25-yard touchdown.
In 34 games at Ohio State, Gholston started 25 times. He registered 87 tackles (47 solo) with 22.5 sacks for minus-184 yards and 30.5 stops for losses of 199 yards. He had two pass deflections and an eight-yard interception return, as he also recovered a fumble that he returned 25 yards for a touchdown.

On top of it all, he’s one of the few who got past the beast which is Jake Long..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yot9ClPvZDg

Perhaps I’m not seeing enough with this damn mask on..
ahhh, that’s better.
Have a great week, Nation.
I hope you’re enjoying YOUR Serenity Sunday as well…
-DR

Don’t worry Jerry, I’ll have enough faith for the both of us..
Speaking as a fan, I will ride that thing called faith for a damn near eternity..
Sure, it’s been rough for many years..but the honest truth is; even if the Raiders had yet another bad year (Heaven and forces forbid), I’d still be there after every game, in the northern End Zone (Dark Side), trying to figure out a way how we can and will improve our situation.
I would also keep telling myself to remember to party like it’s New Years, my Birthday and Christmas combined when the Raiders finally make it back to the Playoffs again. Life is now too short.
I would think about how much progress we have made over the past couple years and be thankful I’m not a die hard Dolphins fan.
What awful colors….
I would also realize again that there are still several teams without a Super bowl trophy in their history (including San Diego(:) while my team holds 3.
You know what, guys? Today I’m feeling optimistic. It’s going to happen. We are going to make it to the Playoffs this year.
I usually don’t like to look at the schedule very much, but when I do, I feel VERY positive.
The Falcons? a Win! The Panthers? Win! The Jets,Saints and Texans? WINS! Patriots at home? WIN!!
Ok, maybe I better just settle down a bit. I’ve been drinking “Raiderade” for far too long….so have the most of you.

If we can actually acquire more wins this year, the reason will be due to the progress of our former #1 pick.
I actually saw Mr. JaMarcus Russell at the Warrior/Laker game Monday and he looked great. Whoever told the media the guy was pushing over 300 was an idiot. The guy has been generally big since he was a teenager.
The true question is will he be ready for the trials and tribulations that come from being a true leader.
” I will be a leader on the field. If I do my best, I know that rubs off on everybody else. I know if I work as hard as I can, anything is possible.” -JR
That little tag was displayed on the season ticket holder folder every seat owner gets about this time.
I just hope he practices what he preaches, Nation.

Anyone thirsty for more Chris Long information? “And with the 4th pick, the Raiders receive…???”

2007 HIGHLIGHTS:
• Had his jersey retired prior to his final home game against Virginia Tech
• Selected the ACC Defensive Player of the Year
• First-Team All-Atlantic Coast Conference
• Dominating presence on the nation’s No. 17 defense (22nd against the run)
• Third on the team in tackling with an average of 6.3 tpg
• 14 sacks are tied for third in UVa history
• Has been in on 21 tackles for loss (17 solo, 4 assist), tied for the most in school history (Please note: Virginia credits 1 TFL whether solo or assisted, his NCAA total is 19.0)
• Finished with seven tackles, including two sacks, against Wyoming in the season opener
• Had six QB pressures vs. the Cowboys, the second-highest total of his career
• In the win over Duke he shared the team lead with eight tackles and had two sacks for the second game in a row
• Also had three QB pressures vs. the Blue Devils
• Made four tackles vs. North Carolina, including a sack for the third straight game
• Intercepted a pass early in the fourth quarter to set up what ultimately became UVa’s game-winning field goal in a 22-20 win
• Led the team with nine tackles in the win over Georgia Tech, the third-highest total of his career
• He also had a sack for the fourth straight game and broke up three passes, a career high
• Big effort vs. Middle Tennessee with five tackles, including two for loss
• Blocked a field goal in the second quarter that was important in UVa’s two-point win
• Four tackles, including a sack, and a caused fumble vs. UConn
• Tremendous effort in the 18-17 come-from-behind road win over Maryland
• Tied his career high with 10 tackles and was named the ACC Defensive Lineman of the Week
• Was in on five tackles for loss (two solo, three assists), including two sacks
• Big sack for a safety in the third quarter that proved to be the difference in the one-point victory
• Made five tackles, including one sack, vs. NC State on Oct. 27
• Equaled his career high with 10 tackles in the win over reigning ACC champion Wake Forest on Nov. 3 and received the ACC’s Defensive Lineman of the Week for the second time in three weeks
• Six tackles, including two sacks, vs. Virginia Tech in his final home game

Keep it shiny and dark..
-DR

Now, that’s more like it. DeAngelo Hall will hopefully be coming our way in a few days!!!!!!!!
Let’s just hope the “Suits” finish the paper work before the former Pro Bowler changes his mind.

Hall is actually a two-time Pro Bowl selection, but he is nearly as well known for his speedy mouth. He argued with former Falcons coach Bobby Petrino last season and was benched for a half after a sideline confrontation.
Moss part Deux??? I sure as hell hope not.
Hall was the Falcons’ No. 1 pick in 2004
Raiders owner Al Davis has always valued cornerbacks who can excel playing man-to-man coverage. Pairing Hall with Nnamdi would give our team one of the top tandems in the game and perhaps the best for the Oakland Raiders since Eric Allen and C Wood locked down their opponents back in the day.
I’m now betting my silver Lightsaber we use that #4 pick for a a quality Defensive Linemen. There are no exceptions.
I know that there have been different opinions about all of the college players, but let’s face it..
with ANY of the young, vibrant beasts the Raiders will sign, we’re all going to tell each other “DAMN, that’s a nice pick!”
There also will be future arguments on who we SHOULD of picked, why we didn’t trade down and why doesn’t Al Davis loosen the grip of those evil emperor claws of his…

“Same as it ever was..”

Nation, I want you all to know I want our team to improve. I want Kelly to exceed past his limits..I want Kwame to be retrained into dominating Pass blocker, I want Javon to regain his true bad ass form and I want to observe Drew Carter having a personal best kind of year in yards…

but I’m pretty sure most of my dreams will remain just that.

How do I know?
I don’t..but I do know I’ve always believed in our players that made the commitment to join us before I witnessed a negative aftermath.
Yeah, I believed in Randy Moss..(you did too)
I believed in Daunte..
Brooks..(honest)
Art Shell..
a battered Rich Gannon (post Super Bowl)
LaMont…
etc. etc.
If you really ask anyone that truly knows me, they’ll all tell you I’d be the last to throw dirt on my beloved team. ..
But I have to tell you all..
after numerous disappointments..
thousands of dollars spent on tickets…
witnessing the last 5+ pathetic years in an occasionally empty End Zone..
I’m getting a little tired of getting let the f#^& down.
So when I write a blog out of frustration or a blog that spits more honesty than you’d like to read, please bare with me.
Know that I’ve been sitting in my section for over 10 years and have the damn right to complain, just about as much as any of the other “OG PSL” season ticket holders.
Know that my belief EVERY year is that we’re going to the almighty Playoffs.
I’m pretty sure this is the teams belief as well.
When we lose?
I’m actually a little lost..
Please know when I write any future angry blogs, know that you’re not always going to get sunshine and red roses spewing out of the Sith Lord’s mouth.
If you can’t handle it?
There’s always other blogs, kids.

I still believe there will be a day when the Raiders will matter in the NFL again..
when the Playoffs are expected and not a surprise…
when we get to play on Monday and Sunday nights again..
when the Coliseum will sell out EVERY damn game..
and finally, I believe my team will eventually be a Champion again.

I just hope it’s all sooner than later.
Have a great week my brothers and sisters,
DR

There is another Skywalker?

Javon Walker?
Eck..
I think that’s the overall opinion of the Nation right now.
Curry is respected and will hopefully be effective again.. but Javon?
That’s the best we could f#&$#*n do, Al??
Eck..

I still keep dreaming of a series of surprises on draft day…
“And with the 4th pick..WHAT? The Raiders have traded their #4 pick for Chad Johns-!!!”
And the crowd interrupts by going bonkers. Boos and Bellows follow…
The Nation takes victory shots..
mayhem erupts…
I get on my blog immediately and write you all I told you it would happen!!!!
and……..
yeah….
sure…
and maybe Brett Farve will unretire to play in the big O.

I suggest everyone not to look at Javon Walker’s 2007 stats….it’s depressing.
If you want to look at any stat, proceed to his glorious year of 2004 were he caught 89 passes for 1,382 yards and 12 touchdowns for the Packers.
So..he’s capable!!!!!
Yawn..
May the force be with us.

I’d rather write about our new Safety: hard hittin’, Gibril Wilson.
In his rookie season, Wilson instantly became a fan favorite in New York for his tenacious speed and hitting abilities. He also recorded three interceptions before his season was cut short due to injury. He was named Rookie of Month in October 2004.
Wilson continued his strong play in 2005 and looked to enhance his status as his team improved.
Wilson and his Giants won the NFC Eastern Division Title in 2005 before being eliminated in the Wild Card round. He led the team in tackles in 2005 with 110.
In 2006, he was second on the team in tackles with 102 and tied for the team lead in interceptions with 2. He has played the most games out of any New York Giant on defense with playing 31 of the possible 32 games the last 2 seasons.
In 2007-2008, Wilson helped the Giants receive a Lombardi trophy.
What more could ya ask for ??!?!????!?!

How about a REAL left Tackle??!?!
Kwame Harris actually signed???
Triple Eck.
I’m sorry, kid. I don’t even really know too much about you besides the fact you were not good enough to play for (sigh) the San Francisco Forty Niners.
Eh, maybe we’ll get lucky.
Tom Cable even made Robert Gallery look good at times.
No, really…
So if were trying to sign Cornell Green again that could possibly mean we’re definitely going for DT or DE in the draft.
Yeah, I’d be happy with that. Now the only problem is which one? I already wrote you how I feel about Howie’s Padawan. But what if he’s taken early like most mock drafts say he’ll be?
And we all know Dorsey was injured recently..
So does that lead us to take another USC D lineman high in the draft?
A little more insight on Sedrick Ellis…
In 2007 Ellis was a 2-time All-American first teamer, started for his third season at nose tackle as a senior in 2007 and was as dominant as ever. Overall in 2007 while starting all 13 games, he has 58 tackles, including 12.5 for losses of 75 yards (with 8.5 sacks for minus 67 yards), plus 7 deflections, 2 fumble recoveries and 1 forced fumble. He was 1 of 15 semifinalists for the 2007 Bednarik Award and 1 of 8 semifinalists for the 2007 Lott Trophy. He was named to the 2007 AP (unanimous), Football Coaches, Football Writers, Walter Camp, The Sporting News, ESPN.com, SI.com, Collegefootballnews.com and Pro Football Weekly All-American first teams and Phil Steele’s All-American second team. He was named the 2007 Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year (USC’s fifth such selection) and Pac-10 Morris Trophy winner (for the second year in a row), he was a unanimous choice on the 2007 All-Pac-10 first team and he made the ESPN.com All-Pac-10 first team, Collegefootballnews.com All-Pac-10 first team (he was its Pac-10 Player of the Year), Rivals.com All-Pac-10 first team and Phil Steele’s All-Pac-10 first team. He was USC’s Co-MVP and also won USC’s Co-Defensive Lineman of the Year Award and Co-Lifter of the Year Award. He also dominated in the Senior Bowl.
Not convinced are you???
Haters….
That’s why I love you all…
Have a great week, Nation!!!!
DR

Hola Nation!!!
What it be, Empire? How goes your off season?
I believe with Basketball season, NFL news and all of the NFL Combine news available, there’s PLENTY of jabber to keep your mind at ease and occupied!

Nnamdi gets the Exclusive Franchise player tag?
Sick, but you know the guy deserves a big contract like the Raider Nation deserves an additional Super Bowl ring!! Team’s only throw to the guy like %13 of all of their netted passes! I sense fear and hatred in the ENTIRE NFL!! Anyone still remember him picking off that pass intended for Chad Johnson?
The force is still strong with him….and I’m sure the best is yet to come.

Fabian Washington goes Ike Turner? Are you f##*ing kidding me?
Lord..it’s events like these that make me remind fans and children not to make Football and Basketball players their beloved role models.
In the words of the wise, fat, loud Charles Barkley:
“I don’t believe professional athletes should be role models. I believe parents should be role models…. It’s not like it was when I was growing up. My mom and my grandmother told me how it was going to be. If I didn’t like it, they said, “Don’t let the door hit you in the ass on your way out.” Parents have to take better control.”
Meaning: In case you didn’t already know…follow your parents rules/actions and not professional athletes.
Sorry for the lecture, but damn, I’m tired of reading all of this kind of negative press.
Whatever, I’m sure Fabian will apologize soon and we will probably forgive him…
but never truly forget.

Nice quotes by Rob Ryan on Jerry’s blog:

On the rumors of his firing:
“It was a joke to me, but I don’t care who you are, you get a little upset when you see your name flashed across the board that you’ve been fired. When it’s not true it kind of pisses you off,” Ryan said. “I mean, what you can you do? There’s a difference between fact and fiction, and the fact is I’m with the Oakland Raiders and I want to be with the Oakland Raiders.”
On being oblivious that Lane Kiffin wanted him out…
“Everything is fine. I don’t know if there was anything written about that or not, but if there was, whatever,” Ryan said. “Some people get it right, some don’t. Everybody’s got a job to do. You guys have got a job to do, get information, get the story out there, but my job is to coach defense and that’s what I do. I don’t know, some information is correct, some of it’s not, and I don’t know how it gets out there, but that’s not my job to know.”
But it IS your job to take care of our voluminous holes inside of our Defensive line, right Coach??? Please, Rob…the Nation and I are willing to put up with your methods because of your loyalty to the organization..
but if the D doesn’t improve this year? I’m not only telling Emperor Al to cut you, I’m also telling the other Coaches to cut that old, dirty, moppy hair of yours while your packing your things.
4th pick??? Which Long will be needed more? Jake or Chris? I’m going with Chris for now. This decision is based on the fact that Ellis AND Dorsey will already be gone by the time the Oakland Raiders have their chance to pick. Let’s hope Teams are more daft in this year’s draft.
Have a great weekend and week, Homeys!
DR

Nnamdi a Franchise player? I heard nothing is official yet. I’m sure it will be a done deal in a matter of days. Everyone knows this is a good decision for our team.
I went to the commitment to excellence award ceremony held in Oakland for Asomugha last year and I swear no other man couldn’t have deserved it any more then this warrior could. They showed highlights, told Nnamdi stories, had a raffle, included dancing, served a great dinner and even had some players and Raiderettes in the room you could chop it up and take pictures with.
I heard Justin Fargas has been given the award this year. Makes sense, doesn’t it? The guy ran over 1,000 yards last year and can be easily considered to be a player on the rise in 2008. McFadden who?
If you would like to attend, hit up Raiders.com for details and you can also mingle with the men that you cheer for and yell at on the field. This will REALLY prove your toughness.
Proceeds from the event will go to the Justin Fargas Youth Scholarship Program. It’s a collar/tie affair, so make sure not to bring your favorite cape, mask and lightsaber…
I found out the hard way.
Ahhhhh, I still feel like a million bucks from that glorious Super Bowl, don’t you? Life is STILL good. The Sun is even brighter!!! Maybe it felt a little EXTRA special for me since I visited New Jersey and the big Apple about a year ago. Sure, I saw all of the sights, sounds and smells the big NY has to offer…but it was the people that I remember and loved the most.
They were the people on the street who gave directions to a lost, idiotic tourist… the people who shared their cheerful victory with me as the Knicks won in TRIPLE overtime over my most hated Basketball team; the Detroit Pistons.. The people who gave me sh$% during the Jets game (as I was dressed as DR), but then told me afterwards I took it with heart and also took it like a man. They even said they respected me! The Trophy couldn’t have gone to a cooler city. Screw the Yankees though…(: Sorry…A’s fan writing)

Enough of yesterday’s banter. We need information that’s needed for tomorrow!!
How about information regarding…
Free Agent Offensive Linemen!

Ruben Brown, UFA, Chicago Bears
An aging veteran, Brown has a lot of experience opening holes for backs and allowing time for passers. He’s a solid guard who holds down his position quite well. If he decides to stick around, he may have a couple of good seasons left. Teams won’t line up to sign him, but there should be a handful that show interest.

Alan Faneca, UFA, Pittsburgh Steelers
Faneca seems to be the most likely of this group to leave his current team. Rumors suggest that he plans on leaving and contract extension talks have gone nowhere. Faneca is a quality guard who has started in five Pro Bowls and been selected as a first team All-Pro five times as well. He also still has some prime seasons of his career remaining. Faneca will receive the most interest at his position, could be the most coveted offensive linemen after the season, and should also be one of the most coveted players available in all of the NFL.

Flozell Adams, UFA, Dallas Cowboys
A veteran left tackle, Adams should hit the market and receive decent interest. A second-round pick in 1998, Adams has developed into one of the league’s better offensive linemen. His size, experience, and performance will lure teams into making a considerable offer for his services. The Cowboys are developing young talent behind him, and depending on how that youth pans out the rest of the season, the team could allow him to leave in favor of saving some money.

Jordan Gross, UFA, Carolina Panthers
With Gross’ contract voiding at season’s end, the Panthers will need to increase his salary in order to keep him around. The ownership seems to agree that he deserves a pay raise, and the team appears to want to keep him around as their starting right tackle. A former first-round selection who has played well, Gross will be looking for a considerably larger check come next season.

Ryan Lilja, UFA, Indianapolis Colts
A quality guard, Lilja is relatively young and has a Super Bowl ring to call his own. The Colts will do well to sign him to an extension, but there’s a chance that Lilja tests the market. In reality, the system that Lilja plays within is a nice fit, and he gets to protect Peyton Manning, so he could easily stay.

Max Starks, UFA, Pittsburgh Steelers
Starks is young and massive, and another Pittsburgh player that may leave the Steel City. He’s 25 and is listed at 6’7” while weighing 337 pounds. His size and age will make him a desired player on many team’s list. A top tier tackle will always garner interest and Starks may lead the free agent class at the spot because of the potential he has shown on the field.

Floyd Womack, UFA, Seattle Seahawks
A big, experienced guard, Womack could get a decent offer from any team missing out on a top tier target like Faneca. If Womack isn’t the outright starter in Seattle this season, look for him to find work elsewhere with an expanded role guaranteed.

Jake Scott, UFA, Indianapolis Colts
Scott is the starting right guard for one of the top offensive line units in the entire NFL, and his ability to help protect Peyton Manning should equate to a nice contract number. Indianapolis has found a way to retain most of their line talent in recent seasons, and it should come as no surprise if Scott is locked into a long-term deal in the near future.

Todd Steussie UFA St. Louis Rams
Steussie has been a solid offensive tackle for several years, but he was placed on injured reserve earlier this season because of a foot injury. He’s approaching forty years of age, but he may still have a good season or two in him. He should receive some attention as a free agent simply because of his experience and the position he plays.

Travelle Wharton UFA Carolina Panthers
A late third-round selection in 2004, Wharton has developed into a solid starting left tackle. He has been a key reason for the successes that the Panthers have had, and his absence in 2006 was a key reason for the team’s struggles. Wharton’s rookie contract will expire at season’s end, and his value on the market should be fairly strong. A quality left tackle is hard to find, and team’s looking to bolster an offensive line will have to consider Wharton. Carolina will likely make every effort to work out an extension.

Other Free Agent Offensive Linemen
OG P.J. Alexander UFA Atlanta Falcons
OT Nat Dorsey UFA Cleveland Browns
OT Trai Essex RFA Pittsburgh Steelers
OG Chris Kemoeatu RFA Pittsburgh Steelers
OT Cory Lekkerkerker RFA Miami Dolphins
OT Sean Locklear UFA Seattle Seahawks
OG Brian Rimpf RFA Baltimore Ravens
OG Keydrick Vincent UFA Baltimore Ravens
OG Fred Weary UFA Houston Texans
I just hope we sign the right biggies starting come August and September.
The force knows JaMarcus and the running backs will appreciate it!!!
Have a great week!
DR