The problem with Harbaugh
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Wednesday, December 31st, 2008 at 4:52 pm in Oakland Raiders.
The Merc continues to beat the drums for Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh as a candidate to coach the Raiders.
Considering Harbaugh’s silence and the fact that his contract extension wasn’t finalized before the NFL coaching carousel started spinning, maybe they’re on to something.
Perhaps Harbaugh is Al Davis’ new Sarkiffin, the chosen one to resurrect the franchise. Two years ago, Davis targeted Steve Sarkisian to lead the Raiders, then adroitly did a media bait-and-switch to Lane Kiffin, saying that young “Lance” was the man he wanted all along.
At least in this case, Davis knows Harbaugh, having had him on staff in 2003 and 2004 under Bill Callahan and Norv Turner. (If you’re a Raiders assistant for more than a year, chances are you’ve worked for multiple head coaches).
And Harbaugh has a well-documented respect for Al.
So why wouldn’t this be a match made in heaven?
These would be my reservations:
– It would be pretty slimy of Harbaugh to bail on Stanford before he ever even got them to .500. He went 4-8, then 5-7, a .375 winning percentage over two years. Made a big deal of saying it was his dream job when working on the mysterious extension.
If he’s as good as he thinks he is, Harbaugh will have chances at other NFL jobs down the line, instead of leveling whatever progress he started at the school that hired him out of a small-school job at the University of San Diego.
– For an ex-NFL quarterback, Harbaugh didn’t do much for Stanford’s quarterbacks the past two years. He brought a tough-minded, physical approach and a team that knocked heads with mighty USC for a half before talent took over.
But if Stanford could pass the ball, they would have went to a bowl game. Basically, he did for Stanford what Kiffin did for the Raiders last year. Made them a more physical opponent, but didn’t win.
Kiffin was fascinated by Al at first, had a lot of things go his way in terms of hiring offensive staff and in terms of personnel.
When Kiffin didn’t win, all the rope Davis gave the young coach tightened. Harbaugh, a rising star with an ego to match, could expect the same thing if he didn’t have immediate success.
It’s a lot different dealing with Al when you’re having tough times then when you’re the young prodigy.
Tom Cable, on the other hand, has dealt with Davis on a week-to-week basis during tough times, has already handled the situation, and at the very end managed to put together the best back-to-back games the franchise has seen in six years.
And he did it in late December, motiving the Raiders and presenting a crisp, well-coached product during a time of year where they’re usually so deep in the tank they need gills to survive.
Other coaching news regarding Raiders coaches of past and present:
– The Newark Star-Ledger reports the Jets want to interview Rex Ryan and are expected to be granted permission once the Baltimore Ravens are eliminated from the playoffs. It’s conceivable if Rex were to get a head coaching job, he could want Rob Ryan as his defensive coordiantor.
One of the Jets in-house candidates is Callahan, fired by the Raiders in 2003.
– Kiffin hired Ed Orgeron away from the New Orleans Saints as his recruiting coordinator at Tennessee. Kiffin wanted Orgeron as his defensive line coach in Oakland, only to be rejected by Davis, with Keith Millard retaining the job.
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December 31st, 2008 at 4:54 pm
1st
December 31st, 2008 at 4:54 pm
didnt haurbach get like a freakn 6 year extension the other day?
happy new years everyone btw
December 31st, 2008 at 4:55 pm
408
Happy New Year young bro. You be careful out there tonight! Trouble’s easy to get into and hard to get out of.
Same to the rest of you young knuckleheads.
December 31st, 2008 at 4:59 pm
Thanx KK…. No worries 408 stays in on amateur night…. Friends and family is all ill drink with tonight!…..
Stay safe Nation!
Oh and thanx 4 tha fix Jerry!
December 31st, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Jerry
“It’s a lot different dealing with Al when you’re having tough times then when you’re the young prodigy.”
_________________________________________
Could you elaborate?
December 31st, 2008 at 5:06 pm
Happy New Year Raider fans. Keep the Cable man he isn’t the best ever. He is a Raider and understands the organization. IMO he is the best chance at winning next year.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:07 pm
Hey, now that Shanahan is unemployed…
I’d still hit him with a bus. Happy New Year to everybody else.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:12 pm
Bob T – I also would like to wish Shanarat a happy unemployment year.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:12 pm
Everyone have themselves a happy and safe New Years.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:13 pm
At least Cable got to beat Shanahan and Gruden before they get canned.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:16 pm
Raiders beating down the Bucks – one of my favorite games ever.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:19 pm
Sorry Jerry, but the comparing Harbaugh to Kiffin is a reach.
For one Harbaugh is way more mature and has played and coached in the NFL before much like Singletary. It won’t take him long to earn the respect from the players.
Plus if your worried about the passing game, well thats what a QB coach and offensive coordinator are for.
I think if the old man talks to Harbaugh he will say that I want you as my coach and all I ask is that you keep Cable as O-Line coach and his assistant since he would be able to help Harbaugh with player evaluation. Perhaps Cable can also call the plays as well. If that happens I hope Rathman and Schneider are kept as well.
Harbaugh can hire the defensive coordinator as well.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:22 pm
Oh and in the end who cares if he hurts Stanfords feelings….they won’t be competing for a Pac-10 title anytime soon anyway.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:32 pm
JERRY JUST SOLD ME ON HARBAUGH, IF HE IS SLIMY , HE IS THE GUY.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:35 pm
I think we keep Cable as head coach ,get a GM,Period! Happy New Year,NATION!!!!!!!
December 31st, 2008 at 5:37 pm
I’d like to see Cable brought back as HC. I think he did enough to deserve a second look.
Gilbride would be the Asst HC/Offensive Coordinator…It would be great to see the Raiders offense look like the Giants.
December 31st, 2008 at 5:37 pm
Happy New Year, ALL!!!
FREE DIRTY!
December 31st, 2008 at 5:40 pm
Gilbride could also be put in charge of developing Russell…
December 31st, 2008 at 5:45 pm
The problem with Harbaugh is he may want to be paid a reasonable coaching salary instead of table scraps. He may want to have some breathing room to put a strategy together. He may want to bring on his own coaching staff. He may win more than 8 games and be credited for turning around a pitiful Raider team and become the face of the franchise, kinda like a former Raiders coach. The team may become consistent winners again and he may want a contract extension and a pay raise. He might get traded. He may not want Rob Ryan. Now thats a problem!!!
December 31st, 2008 at 5:49 pm
I don’t want Rob Ryan, He can kiss my butt like he does Al’s. Send him to Kiffy…
December 31st, 2008 at 5:51 pm
The Davis people surprise me. Here we have the perfect candidate in Tom Cable. He prfesses to being a Raider fan growing up, he works well with Davis, doesn’t berate his players in public and seems to be fine with “input” concerning the coaching staff and player personnel decisions. On top of all that, this is his dream job. Cable wouldn’t use this as some stepping stone. In addition, he has coaching experience in the NFL AND HAS THE SUPPORT OF THE PLAYERS!
So, after the Kiffin debacle, the same debacle that the Davis people were adamant was Kiffin’s doing….you guys want to roll the dice with a potential Lane Kiffin 2 in the form of Jim Harbaugh!?!
What has Harbargh done in coaching to merit a head coaching position? Where has he had success?
Stick with Cable and lets move on!
December 31st, 2008 at 5:52 pm
Well said, S&B, Happy New YEAR!!!
December 31st, 2008 at 5:57 pm
Its precisely the coaching situation that has me angry with Al Davis. Year after year during this six year nightmare, Al Davis insists on bringing in coaches that don’t coach the way he wants things done.
Is any other team looking at Harbaugh as head coach? What winning credentials does he have?
Why Al’s fascination with these young coaches? Now is the time for a more experienced coach who understands the NFL and more specifically the Raiders.
That man is Tom Cable
December 31st, 2008 at 5:59 pm
TC’s Shadow,
Happy New Year to you as well! Let’s hope that Tom Cable can get to work getting a new offensive and defensive coordinator in the new year and start getting ready with player evaluations and the draft!
December 31st, 2008 at 6:01 pm
Al doesn’t want anybody who can out think him. Al wants yes men, period. We need a GM with teeth. We need Al to just show up on Sunday and enjoy.
December 31st, 2008 at 6:02 pm
I kinda wonder if This is Cable’s dream job because he might not be considered for a HC by any other team. Oh well,,let’s ignore those blowouts and hire Cable. Is it me or is Gilbride on the Raiders’ short list and nobody else?
December 31st, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Gilbride came up on Sports Radio in NY for the Jets.
December 31st, 2008 at 6:07 pm
Radio station….WFAN 660 am….New York City
December 31st, 2008 at 6:08 pm
HARBAUGH SUCKS.. WHY DIDN;T HE PLAY THE QB FROM FLORIDA LD CROW
December 31st, 2008 at 6:12 pm
Harbaugh is a tool, Cable is the man. Happy New Year, Nation! GO RAIDERS!!!
December 31st, 2008 at 6:13 pm
The Raiders will rise again!
December 31st, 2008 at 6:16 pm
It really doesnt matter who’s hired Harbaugh,,Cable,,Gilbride,,or Fassell, at the end of the day,,Al Davis will be the Head Coach.
December 31st, 2008 at 6:19 pm
Celebrate the New Year with Al and his Amazing Overhead Projector:
http://www.sportsfanlive.com/web/poll?pollId=6881951
December 31st, 2008 at 6:23 pm
Tom Cable has earned the job. He’s done something that other coaches have not done here recently: won late in the year, built momentum for the next year, instilled confidence in some of his players that are going to be here. This Raider team is still not close, but we do have some high draft choices. If Cable can continue developing the offense and we get a more solid defensive coaching staff, we may be able to get this thing turned around sooner rather than later.
December 31st, 2008 at 6:25 pm
Cable
December 31st, 2008 at 6:28 pm
FREE DIRTY!
December 31st, 2008 at 6:30 pm
N.O. Raider does bring up a good point about Antoine Caldwell the center from Alabama. Caldwell is a beast!! A beast we need!!
December 31st, 2008 at 6:36 pm
if Cody really really is not coming out…
then i need to revisit my no. 1 selection on my draft chart…
probably look at a left tackle…
i don’t know…
at that spot you really don’t want to make a big mistake…
what?
oh…
thought i heard somebody say: huff
whatever that means…
December 31st, 2008 at 6:43 pm
Jerry your comment about Al Davis saying he wanted Kiffin all along is an out and out flat out LIE.
How could he possibly have wanted Kiffin all along when he didn’t even know Kiffin? He met Kiffin by way of Sarkisian. Once he met Kiffin that’s when he became interested. Sarkisian insisted on bringing Kiffin with him if he took the job and Al became wanted to meet Kiffin to see what kind of coach he was and that’s when the interest began. Big AL wanted Sarkisian but was cooned by Kiffin when Kiffin sold himself to Al over Sarkisian. When Sarkisian pulled out Al bought into Kiffin. And Kiffin was very persuasive really sold Al a bill of goods.
But he NEVER said he wanted Kiffin all along. Jerry you never stop with the bullcrap.
December 31st, 2008 at 6:48 pm
Cable should be hired ASAP.
December 31st, 2008 at 6:50 pm
blackholepreist. Yea, like you know what went went down with Al And Kiffin. Uh huh. Suuuuure, pal.
December 31st, 2008 at 6:55 pm
island pirate Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 6:50 pm
blackholepreist. Yea, like you know what went went down with Al And Kiffin. Uh huh. Suuuuure, pal.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
the way BHP described the situation is like 99% correct…
December 31st, 2008 at 6:56 pm
kinda wonder if This is Cable’s dream job because he might not be considered for a HC by any other team. Oh well,,let’s ignore those blowouts and hire Cable. Is it me or is Gilbride on the Raiders’ short list and nobody else?
December 31st, 2008 at 6:56 pm
FREE DIRTY!!!
December 31st, 2008 at 7:01 pm
Blackholepriest Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 6:43 pm
Big AL wanted Sarkisian but was cooned by Kiffin when Kiffin sold himself to Al over Sarkisian. When Sarkisian pulled out Al bought into Kiffin. And Kiffin was very persuasive really sold Al a bill of goods.
___________________________________________
That’s the problem, he got “cooned” by Kiffin (as you say)
He was “cooned” by DeAngelo Hall
He was ‘cooned” by Javon Walker
He was “cooned” by Tommy Kelly
He’s waaay past him prime, getting “cooned” by a 31 yr old kid. sheesh
December 31st, 2008 at 7:02 pm
Most of what we’re hearing IMO is just rumor. There’s no question Harbaugh would love this job anso would Fassel but Gilbride I’m clueless.
Things should shake out over the next two weeks and I’m hoping that we get final word before the senior bowl. Justin fargas said it best this team eeds stability even more than a better coach than Cable. Cable IMO could turn out to be an outstanding coach. His moves on personnel eally turned the team around. Kiffin viewed Hiram Eugene and Chris Johnson as schlarship cases Cable viewed as they were talented players that could help us win.
Cable’s vision for this team IMO are clear he sees things with clarity off what type f team the Raiders can be and he does a great job selling the players on it. His work with JaMarcus was outstanding, as well as Mario, JLH whom Kiffin didn’t see as a player.
The firsat move he made when he took over was to sit Michael Huff a big money player that was not producing shortly after he benched a very ppular player in Curry. I believe he has a plan for the defense as well. He knows this team and what buttons to push. We just cannot afford in my estimation to lose that momentum. Even for what might be a better coach in the short term. Because I feel Cable will be one of the better coaches we could get. It’s critical to keep this momentum.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:06 pm
KK you’re pass your prime as well with the constant rant, give it a rest once in while we know how you feel do you have another thought in that pea brain of yours?
December 31st, 2008 at 7:09 pm
New Years Resolution. BHP and KK will be nice to each other!
December 31st, 2008 at 7:10 pm
koolkell and mr like to exchange notes…
in the bathroom….
bwaaaaahaaaahaaa…
December 31st, 2008 at 7:11 pm
I don’t have a prblem with KK it just get boring with the same line of thought day in day out.
WE GET IT!!
December 31st, 2008 at 7:11 pm
lolol
December 31st, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Harbaugh = Kiffin
That means Harbaugh is da maaan!
December 31st, 2008 at 7:14 pm
BHP,
Why is Davis wasting time interviewing these people. Fassell? Gilbride? Harbaugh?
He’s got his guy already. Do the Rooney interview and lets get started on this preseason.
I am tired of the Raiders always being behind when it comes to the offseason. Al Davis shouldn’t waste another day on interviews. Cable is the best thing the Raiders have going right now.
And I was one of his biggest critics a few weeks ago!
December 31st, 2008 at 7:19 pm
I wish everyone here a prosperous and happy New Year! I wish our Raiders a prosperous New Year as well! I’m getting off work, 10:15pm here, out got the night. Later Nation!
December 31st, 2008 at 7:20 pm
LMN how would you know? you’d eat crap if Mr Davis said it would make you sick. Just an anti whatever Al Davis says has to be wrong lynchmob participant.
You’re like most in here, you don’t have a clue who Al Davis is………………..period
Especially if you think Kiffin is “Da Maan”
December 31st, 2008 at 7:20 pm
THE LONGER THIS GOES WITHOUT A DECISION. THE WORSE IT GET’S FOR CABLE IMO.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:21 pm
# KoolKell Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 7:01 pm
That’s the problem, he got “cooned” by Kiffin (as you say)
He was “cooned” by DeAngelo Hall
He was ‘cooned” by Javon Walker
He was “cooned” by Tommy Kelly
He’s waaay past him prime, getting “cooned” by a 31 yr old kid. sheesh
________________________________________________
Come on, KoolKell, don’t be an idiot. Who would have thought someone (Kiffin) would have come in here and tried to lose?? Who would have thought the head coach would sell the franchise and his players out for his own personal gain?? No one saw that coming and don’t tell me that was Davis’ job to see that coming.
DeAngelo Hall must have cooned every sports writer, coach and player in the league because he was a two time pro bowl player in his first five years.
Regarding Javon, We needed a #1 WR. There wasn’t one available. We had one, but Kiffin shipped him out. There were no other #1 WR’s available on the open market. Davis got Javon. If he didn’t get anyone at all, you would bitch about THAT!
Tommmy Kelly was coming off a torn ACL. He did not play great, but he did not play poorly either. With the price of Defensive linemen going up because of the NY Giants and NE Patriots success, Kelly is a relative bargain.
Anything else??
December 31st, 2008 at 7:23 pm
BHP…
LOL, maybe so, i dont even know what your post meant…one thing is sure, you is without humor, totally without!
December 31st, 2008 at 7:23 pm
S&B
He has to do his due diligence, you have to see what’s out there if only to make sure that your guy is indeed the right guy.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:23 pm
KoolKell is a complete an utter moron. MR and her exchange notes in bed.
How many dudes do you know with the name of “Kell”?
December 31st, 2008 at 7:25 pm
BHP..
but YOU KNOW Al Davis Right?, yeah we all believe that, you still owe us that earthshaddering statement you said would come dec 29th..
I still waiting.. but maybe that was just another attempt to make yourself interesting… just as you imply you know how Al Davis is like =) lol
December 31st, 2008 at 7:26 pm
S&B – Nation Collective Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 7:14 pm
BHP,
Why is Davis wasting time interviewing these people. Fassell? Gilbride? Harbaugh?
__________________________________________________________
Why not?? No one is under contract. Cable. Ryan. No one has a contract. It certainly doesn’t hurt to talk to as many football people as possible, and knowing Mean Old Uncle Al, he is going to take his sweet time in making an announcement. He’ll Most likely make the announcement right before kickoff of the Super Bowl. Tom Cable certainly gets my vote. Of course I was the one who said Cable was going to be head coach two months before Kiffin got axed.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:26 pm
I know 3 ‘Kell´s’ KoolKell included..
December 31st, 2008 at 7:34 pm
LMN it’s just that you guy’s go way out your way to disrespect someone you don’t even know when that someone has done things all of you combined would take ten lifetimes to accomplsh what he has in his lifetime.
Your disrespect is purely based on ignorance and hearsay.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:36 pm
BHP..
Cat Caught your tung?
December 31st, 2008 at 7:37 pm
time 2 light the bon-fire,drink&smoke in the new YEAR
December 31st, 2008 at 7:37 pm
ohh there you were..
what disrespect?
and what about that dec. 29 statement, still waiting!?
December 31st, 2008 at 7:38 pm
4eva..
im rolling/i got 5 on it now…
December 31st, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Are you out of your mind what earthshattering event did I mention you’re the second one to mention this and I dn’t have a clue as to what you’re talking about.
This is all news to me. What did I say?
December 31st, 2008 at 7:41 pm
yeah right..
and if there had been one, you had come out and said “i told you so” you seem to be full of bullmanure!
December 31st, 2008 at 7:44 pm
Someone obviously is playing some kind of game, I made no such comment. I haven’t even been in contact with anyone to make such a statement. I don’t know what’s going to happen I’m just like everyone else waiting and anticipating.
So hopefully that clears it up. Because I haven’t talked to anyone with the team.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:46 pm
I would really hate to see Cable go, if that’s what indeed happens.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:46 pm
BHP..
of course you have, dont give me that bull, you talk to Al Davis daily, dont ya?
December 31st, 2008 at 7:46 pm
So are you fool because i didn’t make any statement. And I refuse to be made to defend it so you can believe whatever you wish. That’s your problem.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:47 pm
BHP & Oakglenn,
Gilbride, Fassell and Harbaugh are exactly the type of people Davis has NO business bringing in here. They are neither in demand, up to speed, qualified or can win the support of the lockerroom.
I bet that NONE of the three mentioned above even sniffs an NFL job this year. Davis has his perfect candidate in house now and EVERYONE knows it.
Gilbride, Fassell or Harbaugh would set this franchise back a couple of years. AGAIN!
Cable can work with Davis and it appears Davis can work with him.
Let not wait until February! Let’s get started on the offseason and building up on the foundation that was laid this year!
December 31st, 2008 at 7:50 pm
But, i’m going to let get teh benefit of doubt, maybe you were trolled..
but again, what disrespect? respect go twoways… I have been full of respectfor most of my “life” as a raiderfan.. counting from somewhere in the early 80’s…
yeah yeah, you have been a raiderfan since 1849, but respect still go twoways..
I haven’t said anything disrespectful, I have predicted that we will get our first 0.500 season the year after Al has died.. and that I say with respect too
December 31st, 2008 at 7:50 pm
I agree. I saw the spark….the look in the players eyes in the last two games. Especially Russell against Houston. I havent’t missed a single snap of this 2008 season and I felt it.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:51 pm
While I do not consider Cable as the find of the year, I agree with S&B. Just keep Cable and team continuity. He deserves at least a year to see if he can make a go of it. Maybe he too will grow on the job as JR now appears he’s doing.
Let’s start the New Year off with an in-place HC who should, minimally, given a guaranteed full season to get things going in the right direction.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:52 pm
They are coming into thier own now. Believing in themselves and each other. It’s obvious when guys start breaking tackles, making great catches. That’s the sign on inspiration.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:52 pm
S&B I don’t know what those candidates are capable of but I do like Harbaugh a lot. He has tremendous potential IMO. And I know he and Mr davis get along as does Fassell.
To say Gilbride and Fassell would set us back, I’m not sure I agree with that. But I do agree with the Cable getting the job I just think he flat ot deserves it. Based on what I saw Sunday. A come from behind win on the road with 2nd and 3rd stringers is very impressive.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:55 pm
Sounds like Jerry is a stanford fan and wouls be really sad if Jim left and really sad if he left for Al Davis and the Raiders.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:56 pm
The guy never quits or even shows frustration. Remember when Kiffin used to scratch his head and not look at the camera and mumble? Cable says NO, we’re not quitting and we WILL fix this.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:56 pm
One has to look at the mess that Cable took over. The team was in disarray. All the players knew Kiffin wanted to be fired and take a big check with him to a college team.
Cable immediately challenged the team and in particular Russell. Where Kiffin hardly allowed Russell to pass down field, Cable opened up a little of the play book and called plays that required Russell to make some good throws. It was great for the development of Russell.
Overall, the team seemed to respond well to Cable, which is very important.
I would support the hiring of Cable:
December 31st, 2008 at 7:56 pm
LMN you just don’t know the man………….period.
The comments you and others make are out of ignorance IMO, doesn’t make you a bad guy, it’s just says you don’t know.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:57 pm
CABLE DESERVES A SHOT. GIVE IT TO HIM. THE PLAYERS ARE PLAYING FOR HIM. DON’T FIX THAT WHICH IS NOT BROKE.
Sorry for the caps. Didn’t notice until just now.
December 31st, 2008 at 7:58 pm
What comments?
if you keep this up, you candidate to the label coward..
December 31st, 2008 at 7:58 pm
I completely support it.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:01 pm
I’m just a regular dude and all but, I didn’t really think there would be much if any deliberation about the HC position.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:03 pm
LMN the coward is YOU, you know what you say and what your opinion is of Al Davis and so does everyone in here. You basically think he’s an idiot and senile and incapable of getting the job done right.
Is anything I said not true?
December 31st, 2008 at 8:05 pm
BHP,
They would set us back. All 3 of those coaches would have to establish relationships with a team that is already skeptical that any coach will stick around. They finally have a coach they can trust. Grove said as much when he said “Kiffin quit on us after week 1″ in support of Cable. Russell had good things to say about Cable and his methods. And don’t discount how Nnamdi stood with Cable in celebration fo the victory.
Not to mention that the offensive game plan would probably change RADICALLY!
Harbaugh!?! How is this team going to respond to another bright eyed young coach set out to conquer the league! Been there and done that!
Gilbride and Fassell are older/failed coaches that don’t even understand the makeup of this team.
Cable knows the players, knows the playbook, coaches and the owner.
I would consider it a huge failure if Al Davis hires someone else. I really would be disappointed
December 31st, 2008 at 8:05 pm
I agree with a lot of what Oakglenn says in #62. I don’t know about Al waiting until kickoff at the SB, but put yourself in his place. There are only 32 guys that get the opportunity to coach at this level and not even all 32 are doing a good job at it.
Al owes it to the league, the team and the fans to get the right guy, especially based on his recent history. I’d rather he took his time and talked to as many people as he felt necessary before making a decision.
Would you rather he made a hasty decision, or would you prefer a well-researched, thoroughly-vetted one?
I know which one I’d prefer.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:06 pm
Yeah, it’s like the whole “Field Goal fake on 4&10″ If you don’t make it, the coach is a tard right? But if it’s a success then he’s King for a day.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:06 pm
BHP..
you need to be more specific than that, you need to come with an quote of mine!
December 31st, 2008 at 8:10 pm
and to say you guys is also pretty weak..
December 31st, 2008 at 8:12 pm
Happy New Year guys,
I actually have a good feeling about our team, one that I haven’t had since Rich Gannon was driving the bus.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:12 pm
he was Da Maaan!
December 31st, 2008 at 8:12 pm
S&B , OK agreed and that is also my premise, Cable has established momentum that the other coaches would ned time to do.
LMN, man let’s just let it go, you know and I know you know and so does everyone else. Let’s just let it go. I don’t care enough to continue the exchange.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:16 pm
what a joke!
December 31st, 2008 at 8:16 pm
BHP..
haha, well =)
I think AL has lost it the last 8 years, yup! I think he runs his business foolish, I think his thoughts about himself hurts us very much..
the raiders is a sick patient, and none of the doctors care to treat us.. thats what I think!
No disrespect there.. not in my eyes!
December 31st, 2008 at 8:17 pm
What?
December 31st, 2008 at 8:18 pm
5-11
4-12
2-14
4-12
5-11
4-12
_____
Which one of those years was Kiffin responsible for after cooning Al Davis?
December 31st, 2008 at 8:18 pm
LMN, Kiffin was a terrible hire by Davis, as soon as Cable changes the offense they go 3-3 down the stretch, have fun with that one.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:18 pm
KoolKell..
post your coach shift rant!!
December 31st, 2008 at 8:21 pm
Edward Teach,
Al doesn’t owe anyone. The one thing that Al has been an utter failure at the last few years has been the selection of head coaches.
Its either a young inexperienced coaches learning on the job…or retreads looking for that last opportunity.
I’m tired of those type of coaches. Let Tom Cable build on something here. And lets stop this habit of starting from scratch every doggone year!
December 31st, 2008 at 8:22 pm
SLD..
in regard of what?
December 31st, 2008 at 8:22 pm
Cable accomplished more in 12 game than Kiffin ever could’ve dreamed of. Without the benefit of an offseason program and a preseason. Kiffin had two preseasons and two offseasons and it wasn’t even close.
This team reminded me of the old Oakland Raiders at seasons end. They attacked on offense and defense they made plays and when things went bad they got tough.
I haven’t seen that since the yester years even B4 Gruden. B4 Shanahan since Flores. They took the game away instead of give it away. Cable’s influence was something to behold.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:23 pm
In regard to your opinion in this blog.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:25 pm
SLD..
be more specific, it came out of the blue.. we were talking about if I was disrespectful of Al Davis..
December 31st, 2008 at 8:27 pm
S&B… I should be a little clearer, I guess. I’m not saying at all that Cable should be disqualified. In fact, I think that his recent performance, his ability to stay positive under duress, and the support he obviously has from the players should be major factors in the decision. Personally, I think those things are huge and if he is supported with good coordinators things will be good again in RaiderLand.
I just think Davis wants to be 100% certain, and I’m glad he does. Nobody wants another coaching debacle.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:27 pm
regarding, Kiffin, I just still hold him up against what Al Davis said about him in the start, those things is what I saw, and I still believe we let a diamond in the rough go, just to please an old mans foolish pride..
December 31st, 2008 at 8:28 pm
and i firmly believe i have that right
December 31st, 2008 at 8:28 pm
Has nothing to do with Davis, you stated in post #52 i think that Kiffin=Harbaugh and said Harbaugh is the man. Kiffin was a horrible decision by Davis, even Davis admitted it. You are saying Kiffin is a good coach or he is a bad coach, now which is it LMN?
December 31st, 2008 at 8:29 pm
I say he sucked and we would ne lucky to get one more win this year under Kiffin.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:30 pm
If what you say is true then how in hell did Cable make soo much headway. How did Cable turn this team into a contender without an offseason. Al Davis was still the owner and the same meddling fool you all say he is.
Then how did cable capture this teams attention to detail and cut out the penalties and make them believe? Just how did he accomplish that with Al Davis still here?
And why do the players see a light at the end of the tunnel. Just hw did Cable straighten out this Dysfunctional mess in such short order?
December 31st, 2008 at 8:30 pm
Even Jerry is starting to see the light and point out Kiffin’s b.s.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:31 pm
If Fargas and McFadden don’t get hurt, Cable wouldn’t even be considered for the head coaching job.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:31 pm
BHP,
Maybe it was someone who posed as you and made the comment about the earth shattering news that was forthcoming on Mon Dec 29. I read that and got goosebumps because someone was defending Al to the core and said that everyone whoever said anything bad about Al Davis was going to “bow down to Al Davis.” because of what he was going to announce that day. I was thinking that we were gonna get Cowher or Shottenhiemer or (Belichick in a trade or something).
Don’t know if you can go in the archives but the statements were made on Thusday Dec.11.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:33 pm
I believe Kiffin had the teams attention, When the rumors started, they said “here we go again”…
December 31st, 2008 at 8:34 pm
Yeah right like McFadden wouldn’t have run for big yardage through those huge holes by the o-line either Kirk.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:34 pm
No Kiffin fooled the team, management and the fans LMN.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:38 pm
# BlackHolePriest Says:
December 11th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
On December 29th Jim Fassell will be announced as Raider head coach. Of course he’ll just be another Davis puppet but I’m telling you just having him here will intimidate our opposition! He took the Giants to the Super Bowl. Nobody wants to face this guy. We’re 16-0 next year!
http://www.ibabuzz.com/raidersblog/2008/12/11/gannon-on-state-of-the-raiders/#comment-340951
__________________________________________________
Here you go… good job N.O..
December 31st, 2008 at 8:38 pm
Good read for you LMN.
http://www.sacbee.com/sports/story/1508137.html
And what did I tell you was the best way to attack the Kiffin cover 2 defense? Throw the seam routes at the safeties and run the football, exactly what Cable did.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:39 pm
SLD..
well, consider me fooled then, I believe he will do a great job in Tennessee, and later will haunt the raiders as shanhanigans did..
December 31st, 2008 at 8:42 pm
Failed Coach Fired, Wheeee here comes Bill Callahan
Failed Coach Fired, Wheeee here comes Norv Turner
Failed Coach Fired, Wheeee here comes Art Shell
Failed Coach Fired, Wheeee, here comes Lane Kiffin
Failed Coach Fired, Wheeee, here comes Tom Cable
Failed Coach Fired, Hope springs eternal with a new Coach……. etc etc etc.
Jim Harbough….Whhheeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!
December 31st, 2008 at 8:42 pm
LMN that’smy point exactly you just don’t get it, if you still support that phony then you are clueless.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:42 pm
If the pressure of Davis got to him then the boosters at UT will be a nightmare for Kiffin.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:42 pm
Look at the way his name is spelled, LMN. It’s not the way the real BHP spells it. Too many capital letters. Plus, it doesn’t even sound like him.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:43 pm
KK resorts to a bigger area of post when he is frustrated.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:45 pm
Where is MR, musing through freight bills looking for the ideal item to steal?
December 31st, 2008 at 8:45 pm
They actually looked like pros the last 2 games.
High Praise! It really is!
December 31st, 2008 at 8:45 pm
# Sith Lord Davis Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 8:38 pm
Good read for you LMN.
http://www.sacbee.com/sports/story/1508137.html
And what did I tell you was the best way to attack the Kiffin cover 2 defense? Throw the seam routes at the safeties and run the football, exactly what Cable did.
___________________________________________________
you must have me confused with somebody else… that has always been the way to beat the cover2, problem is some QB’s that are good, sometimes just cant find the seam, one of my heroes, Gannon certainly couldn’t in 1st half of the SB..
So I dont know what you are referring to, maybe that I said i like aspects of the cover 2, I still do, never said it was flawless, I like its stats, I like how easy it is drafting to, I like how most Playoff teams of the last 5 years have had Cover 2 as the default D.. still stand by that, so i dont know what you post is referring to, seem to me you just picking things out here and there..
December 31st, 2008 at 8:47 pm
# edward teach Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 8:42 pm
Look at the way his name is spelled, LMN. It’s not the way the real BHP spells it. Too many capital letters. Plus, it doesn’t even sound like him.
_____________________________________________________
True, earlier i’ve said i gave him the benefit of doubt, just posted, so BHP, could see it for himself.. so he knew what people was referring to..
December 31st, 2008 at 8:47 pm
LMN, Monte himself admitted he only uses it on average 35% of the time. Its like a 4-3 prevent LMN. It’s nothing new.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:47 pm
LMN are you seriously kidding does that even sound like me? I never make predictions about records, and thewhole statement wreaks of gamesmanship.
Get a clue!
December 31st, 2008 at 8:48 pm
That the problem with Old Man Davis, he and his lackeys are still focused on Lane Kiffin, Mike Shahanan, drama instead of winning.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:48 pm
SLD..
have i said so?
btw, my favorite D is 3-4…
December 31st, 2008 at 8:49 pm
The win is still fresh KK, its not my fault you freak out over Al Davis.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:49 pm
# Blackholepriest Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 8:47 pm
LMN are you seriously kidding does that even sound like me? I never make predictions about records, and thewhole statement wreaks of gamesmanship.
Get a clue!
__________________________________________________
see post 132..
December 31st, 2008 at 8:49 pm
3-4 cover 2 then LMN, whatever you choose.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:50 pm
# Sith Lord Davis Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 8:49 pm
3-4 cover 2 then LMN, whatever you choose.
____________________________________________________
what do you mean?
December 31st, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Bullsheit BHP
You make all kinds of predictions based on your “organizational” knowledge.
Remember, you assured us “first hand” how the Kiffin/Davis rift was all nonsense.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:51 pm
I dont like how much responsibility we give the safety’s.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Yep it was a poser. Because more than that was said in another post. If you look again look for “bow down” in a post. So that poser probably posted a bunch of things as BHP that day.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:51 pm
# kirk Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 8:31 pm
If Fargas and McFadden don’t get hurt, Cable wouldn’t even be considered for the head coaching job.
————————————————
that’s ridiculous. Fargas ran for 1000 yards and didn’t start til week 7. Then he missed the last two games. If Mike Bush was going to run all over Tampa so would have Fargas or someone else. How do you know they didn’t have a completely different game plan for the other two backs that would have been successful. If the Queen had a package, she would be king.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:52 pm
The safeties keep everything in front of them, no blitzes or man to man, the safties play zone basically, that is cover 2.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:54 pm
Does thta make sense to you LMN? Because that style of zone defense seems to be what you like.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:54 pm
# KoolKell Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 8:48 pm
That the problem with Old Man Davis, he and his lackeys are still focused on Lane Kiffin, Mike Shahanan, drama instead of winning.
where do these knuckleheads come from? we here are focused on Tom Cable and the last two wins. You on the other hand keep posting stuff from five and six years ago. You must have a screw loose pal.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:55 pm
N.O…
yeah, well spotted, I missed it :/
December 31st, 2008 at 8:56 pm
SLD…
not constantly, that would be rather easy to figure out, lol =), no that wouldn’t be a good idea..
but I like 3-4 better than 4-3, as default scheme..
December 31st, 2008 at 8:58 pm
Got to have a huge DL, a player like Burgess would have to be cut. Big linebackers are preferred too.
December 31st, 2008 at 8:59 pm
SLD..
I know, you would seldom blitz with ya DE’s you would mostly use OLBs
December 31st, 2008 at 9:01 pm
# Sith Lord Davis Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 8:45 pm
Where is MR, musing through freight bills looking for the ideal item to steal?
—————————————————
He must be selling his ass to the highest bidder in Sacto somewhere.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:02 pm
One interesting fact, the Raiders three Superbowl winning defenses used the 3-4.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:02 pm
^^^^^something you know about, huh?
December 31st, 2008 at 9:02 pm
SLD…
exactly!!
December 31st, 2008 at 9:03 pm
And they act like its such a modern defense lol. The game has passed us by lol. Yeah, yeah right.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Rich Eisen of NFL Network while doing the Vikings/Giants highlights made me fall out my chair laughing. On the game winning field goal they had a split screen of Coughlin and Childress and their reactions of the game winning kick. Coughlin was on the bottom left of screen and Eisen said the “Book keeper” on the bottom right.
I was like, the Book keeper? Then I thought of “The Untouchables” and fell out my chair LMAO!
Childress does look like the Book keeper.
Just thought of it while watching the replay end just now.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:06 pm
Happy New Years, BHP
Best Wishes, La Millia Negra
December 31st, 2008 at 9:07 pm
I just want Davis to give Cable one more year and then make a final decision.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:07 pm
SLD…
as a warm up to a SB a few years ago we watched 10 SB games, and most of those teams played 3-4, the patsies and us among them …
December 31st, 2008 at 9:08 pm
KoolKell..
you too
December 31st, 2008 at 9:10 pm
I have to give the 4-3 Raider Superbowl defense a mulligan since Gannon spotted Tampa 21 points on three passes.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:11 pm
SLD..
I have ONE demand, that is RoRy gone gone goen, I really dont care about HC anymore, its getting futile..
but I hope we get Hue Jackson as OC, that could be sweet! and I still like Marc Trestman, him as a some sort of assistant could be great, his pass game was wild!
December 31st, 2008 at 9:12 pm
Happy New Year fellas,
gonna go outside and watch some fireworks for a while. It’s almost 09 here. They’re poppin em like crazy over here and still have 50 min to go.
Holla at yall next year, er in a couple hours or so.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:15 pm
I don’t like retread OC’s for the simple fact that there is too much information regarding their play calling tendancies. I would rather go with an unknown play caller like Cable.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:15 pm
A happy, healthy and productive New Year, everybody.
Be careful out there…
December 31st, 2008 at 9:16 pm
be safe everyone get 2009 in one piece.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:17 pm
E.T..
you too…
Im sitting here and is totally wasted, playing online poker, very productive start of the new year =) lol, its 0615 here =) lol
December 31st, 2008 at 9:19 pm
BHP..
you too =)
Take care, all of you!
December 31st, 2008 at 9:35 pm
I like what Millard has done with finding and coaching up our pass rushing DE’s.
Burgess a prime example. Too bad he can’t stay healthy.
Saw that CHris Clemmons had a big game against Dallas.
Your welcome…
December 31st, 2008 at 9:39 pm
Nnamdi, Trevor Scott might be our best defensive lineman. He played very well down the stretch. I don’t know who coached him up, but they did a great job.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:41 pm
Heres hoping your New Years is the same as, betterthan or NOTHING LIKE last year!
December 31st, 2008 at 9:44 pm
Same to you Nnamdi 21, and to all the Raider Nation. Happy New Year to all of you.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:44 pm
Black Top: He gets after the passer thats for sure! has a solid answer when his initial move is thwarted too. Not just a speed rusher from the edge.
Needs (Like Burgess) to work on his ground game though. Several times against the Ravens he got sucked inside and rolled out on for big gains and a TD.
Likin’ what I see though and more than once he made noticably big special teams tackles too.
Good hustle and part of an exciting group of youngsters on a rising squad.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:46 pm
Classic rookie mistakes Nnamdi. He will get better with more playing time. He will notice tendencies and not get sucked inside on plays.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:52 pm
177. absolutely. Greyson Gunhiem may actually make the squad too depending on Burgess. Sonce he sucked and was inured all year, I wonder if he plays out his final year in Oakland hoping for a return to Pro Bowl form in order to get a lucrative offer elsewhere, or if he opts out his last year and tests the waters.
December 31st, 2008 at 9:54 pm
I think he is going to test the waters, hence why we drafted Trev Scott to begin with. Good pass rushers are very hard to come by and command big bucks.
December 31st, 2008 at 10:18 pm
Happy New Year everyone. I hope Al Davis sets a new year resolution of giving up managing football, permanently. If not, we’ll be talking draft at this time next year, too. Later.
December 31st, 2008 at 10:47 pm
Davis loves this drama lama BS. Just hire Cable already so we can focus on securing his staff.
December 31st, 2008 at 10:54 pm
Why not hire John McCain, it would give Al someone his own age to talk to and he would clearly suck as a coach.
December 31st, 2008 at 11:33 pm
Jerry failed to mention the indirect shots Kiff took at Al by praising their player personnel decisions and the way they evaluate the talent in the draft: saying they take football players and are not concerned with 40 times and such. Also Kiff was searching for job over at Arkansas and through a major fit according to Pro football talk by slammming doors when Petrino took the job with three games to go in ATL. I know Al manipulates, controls, lies, and plays innocent, but he did mention how mad Kiffin got when he did not get the job at Arkansas.
My point is that Kiff was immature: shoping for a job and running his mouth at the same time. I doubt Harbaugh would act in this same manner; especially since Harbaugh is considerably older the kid kiff.
December 31st, 2008 at 11:36 pm
The shots Kiff took at Al were after the Colts game last year.
January 1st, 2009 at 12:19 am
Happy New Year to all in Raiderland! Hopefully our beloved team will take a page from the new federal government regime & forge towards a new direction (no choice!).
Hope the holidays were kind to all & silver & black dreams will follow the ongoing fireworks (here, @ least!). The party is @ my house this year, thus I slipped away for this brief public service announcement.
Late (or is it early? New Year & all)
Antispy3
January 1st, 2009 at 12:22 am
OBTW; (B)ESPN announced earlier today that Harbaugh & Stanford’s AD have agreed “in principal” to all major contract issues. They are just ironing out the fine points. Unless (very possible) I missed something in translation (didn’t think much of this Bill Murray effort).
Late
Antispy3
January 1st, 2009 at 12:39 am
Hopefully we will see some activity by Monday. Al needs to move quickly and give the appearance of stability.
This will help the players and maybe even make contract talks go smoother.
Then the new HC (Cable) can begin to look for a new staff (New OC and new DC) and begin to evaluate talent for the draft.
January 1st, 2009 at 12:42 am
Rob Ryan needs to go away.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:00 am
HNY y’all. J-Wack can eat a fat 2009 cooooock as far as I’m concerned. What a priiiick. Jerrrrrk.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:01 am
BHP:
Really agree with post 106. Watching that game WAS like watching a Madden or Flores coached team.
Ten points down in the 4th quarter wouldn’t be a problem for them and their teams and it wasn’t a problem for Cable. Cable got the team fired up in a game that meant nothing. With 1:44 left in the half we’ve come to expect the Raiders to go three and out, instead they drove down the field for a TD. The Raiders had 17 unanswered points in the second half.
This guy really knows how to motivate players and he works especially well with talented younger players which we have plenty of. The young guys on this team played this game with a win at any cost style that used to be a trademark of the great Raider teams.
On top of that he knows how to work with Al.
The Raiders have a chance here to have an offseason that means something if they move fast. Hire Cable, and an executive now! Then fill all the other coaching spots-except for special teams, keep him and Rathman if possible.
By beating Tampa in the last game of the season, the Raiders did something they hadn’t done since 1983.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:33 am
So all you cable lovers all it takes is 2 good games in a row and your’e ready to hire the guy. I don’t see big al settling for a 3rd rate coach like cable , or as i call him mr. 22 gameballs . We are close to turning it around a good hc and just the right mix of fa & draft well be right back where the Silver&Black belongs on top, but we do need ol,dl,wr,mlb.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:35 am
Great job by special teams this year one of the best i’ve ever seen us have keep it up kept us close in a lot of games this year. Come on J-Russ this will be youre make or break year.
GO RAIDERS!!!!
January 1st, 2009 at 3:46 am
Before i crash out except for the Raiders SB victories mike shanahan crying maybe the best thing ive ever seen in football and knowing the Raiders caused it man big al must have loved that!
January 1st, 2009 at 6:19 am
ah, man… reading a lot of this bullschit is just ridiculous…
if Al Davis was in it for the drama, or the attention, or his ego… he would be holding a lot more press conferences… he would give interviews to his favorite writers… he would have something to say in public a lot more ofton…
the fact that he does none of these things, and never has, means that he is not interested in the publicity, is not interested in feeding his ego, and has no desire for drama…
the man wants to win…
that’s it… short and simple…
now those of you who thinks he doesn’t care what the fans think are lot more closer to the truth than those of you who think Davis is a control freak…
if you look at the history of raider coaching… head coaches are given some latitude regarding their staff… they are never given complete control… that comes in time and with success…
lack of success invites intervention…
and it is this way in every business…
if you are a manager and hit all your goals… you get minimal attention from your superiors… they will not fix something that is not broken…
however, if you are a manager who is not succeeding, you will get attention, and assistance, and detailed instructions, along with milestones to achieve…
it is that way in all businesses…
unless you have an extraordinary track record of success, you will not be given free reign to remove, promote, reassign, or dismiss any employee…
ya gotta ask, and sell, and beg sometimes… but you work with what you have…
and that’s what your getting paid for…
in my own business, i do not let my managers make personnel decisions… what i do is say what i think needs to happen… then ask them “who”… if they give me an acceptable answer, then it gets done their way… if they don’t, it gets done my way…
and that, dear gentlemen, is the way all businesses work.
January 1st, 2009 at 6:47 am
Post #57…”Kelly is a relative bargain.”…By your reasoning, so is General Motors…
January 1st, 2009 at 7:02 am
…If Jellyfish Cable stays, does that not reduce Al Davis’ motivation/urgency to either hire a competent GM or finally , uncerimoniously, dump Caveman Ryan ?
Cable seems way too cushy and comfortable with maintaining the status quo….his silence on these two crucial issues underlies a much deeper problem, how can the players truely respect a seemingly happy/willing-to-be emasculated head coach?….
January 1st, 2009 at 7:49 am
Happy New Year all. wouldnt mind seeing Cable retained only b/c none of the other candidates mentioned really make sense Harbaugh maybe and thats only if Cable is willing to stay on staff. I’d also like to see Mike Martz get an interview only because his is arrogant enough to turn the offense around and every QB that ever played under him produces. Plus any scenario has to include the dismissal of Al’s limo driver Robbo!!!!
January 1st, 2009 at 8:10 am
Flores to gm how does that sound with tim brown as an asst?
January 1st, 2009 at 8:16 am
HAPPY HAPPY NEW YEAR’S DAY =).Once again its simple Cables a young coach.We got the MOST young talent in the league!!!Jmac needed 2 take his lumps,what dont kill ya makes you stronger.If we’re not gonna steer Morris 2 the center position,then imo we need 2 draft Alex Mack C Cal.Mario must pan out and I think he will.Leave Gallery where he is.Hes the smartest player in the Nation& at 6-4 316lbs hes a beast.There will be plenty of DL and MLBs 2 be had imo.I believe if you have the chance 2 taqke the smartest player and he’s a brute at center,we MUST take him.I havent really noticed Mack untill recently because of our revolving-door DL.At first I wanted Rey Maualuga and I still would’nt mind gettin him or Spikes either.But if we can solidify our O-line 4 years 2 come with the smartest player who’s a beast at the heart of our line Mack is the only choice,imho
January 1st, 2009 at 8:39 am
Its got to be cable!!! and u people that talk bad about ad . u are not true raiders …. so go join the ratboy from denver…….
January 1st, 2009 at 8:42 am
GOOOOO RAIDERS
January 1st, 2009 at 8:53 am
As long as Al Davis makes the personnel decisions, it doesn’t matter who the coach is. We will continue to lose. Davis can’t draft. His free agency decisions are laughable. And he fills the roster with guys who can’t play. Say what you want about Kiffin, but he was right when he told Davis that the team could not win because it did not have the talent to compete. Everyone is getting worked up about who the coach is going to be and who we are going to draft — but it doesn’t matter if Davis is the GM.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:07 am
# r8rpaver Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 8:10 am
Flores to gm how does that sound with tim brown as an asst?
————–
That sounds like 0-16. Have you heard Flores lately? He does the color with Papa on the radio, he doesn’t even know whats going on half the time. Brown wants to golf and do TV. Not work 80+ hours a week.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:14 am
It’s funny that Shanahan got fired. Now I’m going to hate whatever team he goes to almost as much as the Broncos. LOL When I was reading the comments this morning this one hella cracked me up….
17 Bob Trey 0 Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 5:07 pm
Hey, now that Shanahan is unemployed…
I’d still hit him with a bus. Happy New Year to everybody else.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:04 am
# Senile King’s Aricept Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 6:47 am
Post #57…”Kelly is a relative bargain.”…By your reasoning, so is General Motors…
——————————-
No. What you say does not make sense. But then again, have you ever?
January 1st, 2009 at 10:04 am
This has got to stop! I think it would be stupid to put a new coaching staff in right now. Is Davis trying to ruin Russell’s career or what? The last thing he needs is a new system. This kid is a good QB, but he needs some continuity with this offense. There shouldn’t be any other focus in the offseason besides Russell, he is the future…. Which means O-Line and receivers that can get some damn seperation. If you look at what he did over the last two games it’s actually amazing. He is throwing to receivers that are 3rd or 4th stringers at best on other teams, if not just special teamers. Defenses really only have to defend Zach Miller and the running game. I think he did decent this year given what he had to work with.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:06 am
Morning Nation!
January 1st, 2009 at 10:06 am
# Senile King’s Aricept Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 7:02 am
…If Jellyfish Cable stays, does that not reduce Al Davis’ motivation/urgency to either hire a competent GM or finally , uncerimoniously, dump Caveman Ryan ?
Cable seems way too cushy and comfortable with maintaining the status quo….his silence on these two crucial issues underlies a much deeper problem, how can the players truely respect a seemingly happy/willing-to-be emasculated head coach?….
——————————————
This is a joke post right??? None of this is right.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:16 am
# RaiderfanNY Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 8:53 am
As long as Al Davis makes the personnel decisions, it doesn’t matter who the coach is. We will continue to lose. Davis can’t draft. His free agency decisions are laughable. And he fills the roster with guys who can’t play. Say what you want about Kiffin, but he was right when he told Davis that the team could not win because it did not have the talent to compete. Everyone is getting worked up about who the coach is going to be and who we are going to draft — but it doesn’t matter if Davis is the GM.
———————————————
Once again, there are a couple of posters in here that want to give all the credit to Ron Wolf, Jon Gruden and Lane Kiffin for great personnel decisions and blame all the problems on Al Davis. This is preposterous and they do not know what they are talking about. Granted, Davis has made some knucklehead decisions with personnel, but everyone does.
The problems with the current Oakland Raiders roster stems from the fact that Jon Gruden and Bruce Allen drafted very poorly and packed the roster with aged veterans. Don’t believe me??? Well, take a look at the current Tampon Bay roster and you will see exactly the same thing that happened here. Why do you think Monte Kiffin bailed?
The teams with the most pro bowl players right now (Arizona and the New York Giants) have four representatives on the roster. We have two. And we have an excellent roster of young players, (Howard, Miller, Jamarcus, Bush, Dmac, Gallery) who could strongly be considered future pro bowl players if we had a winning team. Once these players take ownership of their team and start acting like they want to be here and believe they can win here, this franchise will turn around. And turn around quickly.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:23 am
morning OG…
so whats your take on the HC? I think the chubby dude should get the job.. I know it was only two games @ the end of the year but damn it that team looked and played like our beloved RAIDERS!
January 1st, 2009 at 10:24 am
hey all you alcoholics get up its a new year!
January 1st, 2009 at 10:26 am
stop shouting….we’re up!
January 1st, 2009 at 10:29 am
yo saint….
Im having a bloody marry.. It works wonders… My brother in law ralphed in the sink this morning… damn rookie… LOL
January 1st, 2009 at 10:37 am
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
Make him cook breakfast.
Bloody Mary sounds awefully good.
Looking forward to watching Rey today.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:48 am
OK 408,
Just finished a batch of Mary’s. Had just enough Worstershire…plenty of Vodka!
January 1st, 2009 at 10:48 am
My gut feeling is that Davis is leaning toward Cable, but the fact is, that he MUST interview at least one candidate, a minority. So — and I don’t blame him at all for this — he may as well interview a few others, while he’s at it. Plus, I believe that most of those posting here are incredibly impatient. Is it going to kill you to wait a week or two (or even three or four), to see who might become available. All you need to do is look across the bay; if the Niners had known that Shanahan was going to get the axe, you can bet your bottom dollar they don’t hire Singletary right away, but talk to Shanahan first.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:50 am
Nice dont 4get the olives and a hunk of celery… gotta get the nutritional value…
January 1st, 2009 at 10:55 am
Had 2 olives left, no celery. Oh well, plenty of Vodka!
So is this draft going to divide us this year because of Crabtree, the way McFadden did last year??
January 1st, 2009 at 10:56 am
Happy f*ckin new years to all you “fans”…in my always correct opinion, the old man needs to give the hc job to the cable guy,…even though sapp really dissed him, really insulted the guy on that crappy football show,…however people who pay attention view warren sapp as a bafoon, a clown, a circus bear that will do or say anything, and also make silly faces, to just get attention,..hes really an embarrassment,…how can a grown man with any self respect behave that way,…is he not aware that people view him as a very small man with no credibility or respect at all?…i used to like him, maybe i only liked him because he made me laugh,…now hes sad…keep the cable guy,..and al davis please stay the hell out of the teams way,…and once again to all of you dorks who watch the game from the couch while i am there, happy f*ckin new year.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:59 am
yep!
we need Oline help! and Dline help too…Besides Im pulling 4 chaz!
January 1st, 2009 at 11:09 am
I hope we don’t hire the wrong brother again.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:10 am
I sure like what I hear about that Oher kid out in Miss.
I wouldn’t mind seeing our first 2 picks going to the OLine.
If we lose Burgess of course that changes things, at least for the second round. We really need to get a couple more DT’s as well. What an idiotic move to go with 3 DT’s on a team. Only my Raiders!!
Of course there is the Crabtree wildcard(if he elects). I’ve seen Tech play a few times this year(I actually went to TT for a whole semester once!!) and Crabtree is an awesome talent. If we want a guy that can get separation and has GREAT hands than he’s the guy. Of course, at best he’ll get D Bowe types of numbers his first couple of years(which BTW are pretty damn good numbers).
But all I want for Christmas is some protection for Jamarcus to continue his development and perhaps JLH and Chaz will also continue to grow and develop in whatever system comes in.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:15 am
Happy F’ing New Year Narco.
I’m not a dork, just don’t live in Cali anymore!
January 1st, 2009 at 11:16 am
Jerry! Love your articles, as always, but who is copy-editing your articles? “…they would have went…” What a howler!!!
January 1st, 2009 at 11:22 am
Keep the Cable guy. Bring on a slew of OC and DC candidates and let’s move into the off season with our current head coach (erasing “interim”) and a pair of new coordinators. Lot’s of canned head coaches so far (and more to come presumably) who are also experience DC’s. That might be a way to start.
Cable has earned his shot, let’s go with some continuity for a change (or, um, not a change, you know what I mean).
Happy New Year all.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:35 am
Does the Tuna want to return to the sideline (as hinted at on PFT)?
If so, wait to at least have a shot if he opts out of the Miami job. If not, stick with Cable and bring in a new D staff to get the most out of that talent.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:36 am
I for one am not sold on the Cable guy. He is an awesome O/L coach, but I think this could turn out like the Joe Bugel thing. Joe was also well liked by the players but he was clearly out of his league as a head coach. I almost wish that Cable had remained a line coach. I just don’t see how he stays if he does not get the H/C job.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:42 am
hey you guys;Clemson has this true freshman DT,his last name is Thompson.This true freshman is 6-2,315lbs
January 1st, 2009 at 11:45 am
With a little W/R and a little O/L line help our offense is going to be solid and better than most next year. What I want is a killer defense. One that is strong against the run, swarming with solid tackling and does not give up the big play. Forgotten in the glow of our current glorious two game win streak is the fact that the D gave up some big chunks of real estate in both those games to the receivers on crossing routes and to the running backs, who are still able to gouge the D with a maddening consistency. If Cadillac Williams hadn’t have been hurt in the Bucs game who knows what might of happened. He was gouging us..
January 1st, 2009 at 11:47 am
Hi, Ho Silver And Black! Away!
January 1st, 2009 at 11:47 am
Perhaps our new DC will coach things like gap assignment and tackling?? That would be a great start to ‘09!
January 1st, 2009 at 11:51 am
My horse and I drank a keg of Heffe between us…
January 1st, 2009 at 11:53 am
the lone raider… Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 11:36 am
I for one am not sold on the Cable guy. He is an awesome O/L coach, but I think this could turn out like the Joe Bugel thing. Joe was also well liked by the players but he was clearly out of his league as a head coach. I almost wish that Cable had remained a line coach. I just don’t see how he stays if he does not get the H/C job.
Cable will only be as good as his players are…and their TALENTED…Bugel’s team was a completely different story…If Cable can continue to lead this young team to not commit penalties and cut down on stupid mistakes, and they continue to believe in him, he will continue winning. Basic little things that make the difference between winning and losing….
January 1st, 2009 at 11:56 am
Al needs to move out of the picture, agreed. But does Al deserve a chance to see this team win again? Absoulutly… Just to the looks on those morons at espn… that would be priceless…
January 1st, 2009 at 11:58 am
2010(2-14)
2009(4-12)
2008 5-11
2007 4-12
2006 2-14
2005 4-12
2004 5-11
2003 4-12
If you look at the pattern of our record over the years, it would suggest that we’re going 4-12 in 2009 and 2-14 in 2010.
January 1st, 2009 at 12:04 pm
Florida Pete – He’s gonna make your day…PUNK! Haha.
Do you feel….LUCKY?
January 1st, 2009 at 12:10 pm
hahahahahahahah….thats good stuff
January 1st, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Keep Cable. We have nothing to lose. The offense will stay the same which will give us consistentcy and especially with the young player is important. Please hire a GM. Al needs help in the front office when he decides to get free agent busts like Harris, Walker and Hall. What a waste of money and draft picks. Also, get a run stopper or make a run at Julious Peppers and if you cant get Crabtree with the first rnd pick trade it away and get more picks with 3rd,4th, 5th rounders who are hard workers to fill postions which will soon be vacant in the defense backfield.
January 1st, 2009 at 12:24 pm
I was not sure about cable at first, his line coaching experience is not the issue. But these last two games and the way we won was very important! That’s all cable. We have to remember HOF John maden was a line coach(i think d line) before being a HC! Cable could be the diamond in the rough! We, JR, dmac, and the rest of the team need consistency at the HC. If al keeps cable, gets a DC of his choosing, good gm/personnel man-it will be worth watching! If not it will be worth waiting for al to step aside.
January 1st, 2009 at 12:25 pm
I’m all for Harbaugh. We need a new face of the franchise. We need someone with some swagger who has been there with Al.
January 1st, 2009 at 12:36 pm
i like cable…
January 1st, 2009 at 12:45 pm
just thinking…
if we bring in a new HC, we will most certainly need to say goodbye to Cable…
even if Cable was willing and able to work for the new guy… it just won’t work…
you cannot allow a popular coach to stay as an assistant if many in the locker room thought he had things turned around…
you will have a divided locker room right off the bat…
can’t and won’t work…
so replacing Cable means really replacing Cable and saying goodbye to him…
i say he should stay…
he’s done enough right to overlook what he’s done wrong…
January 1st, 2009 at 1:02 pm
All this speculation is beyond stupid, and since we have a “writer” whose supposed to covering the home team, why do we need to depend on sites like ESPN and PFT to break news of the team locally and not the local sportswriter? They don’t know jack, and by even continuing this debacle of a rumor of Harbaugh as a candidate, it proves it…Harbaugh is not the guy, Cable is..so what AL hasn’t said anything yet..if he was going to get canned, he would’ve gotten fired already..go back and fact check how long it took Cally, NORF, and Shell to get fired after the season ended..a mere week at the MOST..Cable stays and in comes new coordinatore..come on Raider fans, don’t let these media weasel think for you, think for yourself….
January 1st, 2009 at 1:36 pm
Has anyone else noticed that there’s an offensive tackle that plays for the Oregon State Beavers with the last name of Levitre?
January 1st, 2009 at 1:47 pm
“It’s conceivable if Rex were to get a head coaching job, he could want Rob Ryan as his defensive coordinator….”
GOOD!
January 1st, 2009 at 1:50 pm
…once again MNG sports staff shows its mettle by writing again a piece borne of pure speculation. Aren’t these guys supposed to have an in at the Alameda facility and be the first to put any and all news first to print?
Whatever.
January 1st, 2009 at 2:15 pm
we will not hire a GM.you people should quit coming on here and saying we’re going to hire so and so and get a good GM he can work with.it isn’t going to happen.our GM is our owner-always has been,always will be.
January 1st, 2009 at 2:19 pm
I sgree Lefty
January 1st, 2009 at 2:22 pm
Steve Wisneiwski’s son plays LG 4 Penn State
January 1st, 2009 at 2:28 pm
I agree, Lefty. Al said awhile back that he had someone with Bay Area ties in mind to help with things. He never said he was hiring a GM. How it got interpreted that way is beyond me. Maybe it was wishful thinking, I don’t know, but anyone familiar with Al Davis and the way he runs his team should know better than to make that leap. Player personnel advisor, scouting guru, who knows, but certainly not a General Manager.
January 1st, 2009 at 2:52 pm
Al clearly needs some help minding the store. Even he knows this. There are just a lot of holes right now that need to be filled from the top all the way down to the playing field. Think about it: head coach, defensive coordinator, assistant coaches, general manager (or some facsimile) other front office people, scouting guys.
Everyone expects Steve Mariucci to get a call in some aspect of the Raider openings. I would look for Mike Nolan myself. Not that I agree with the choice of Nolan, but Nolan is local, goes back a long way with Davis, is defensive minded, and can probably help in some way.
BTW, Happy New Years Nation to you and yours.
January 1st, 2009 at 2:59 pm
its all on the WHEEL
January 1st, 2009 at 3:00 pm
rey maualuga hasnt really done anything yet
January 1st, 2009 at 3:03 pm
Did you guys see Taylor Mays get run over?? I’m sure Mays is very very high on our draft list. That’s not good seeing him get run over.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:08 pm
jeezus… MR…
shoulda known…
the talking in circles part should have given you away sooner…
but the stupid questions part definately gave you away…
so, dipschit… have you come up with the proof about what Al said about Robbins???
or…
are you just going to continue to talk out of your ass???
oh, and if you do select option 2…
you really should join the circus…
January 1st, 2009 at 3:14 pm
back to the game… later…
oh, maualuga isn’t looking that special…
January 1st, 2009 at 3:21 pm
I was a teenage buddhist 50 years ago
January 1st, 2009 at 3:32 pm
USC dominates penn state
January 1st, 2009 at 3:35 pm
don’t worry clint. Bad things will soon happen to you. Very bad things. It’s not a guilt trip, it’s the way of the Buddha.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:36 pm
Pac-10 dominates all their bowl games.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:39 pm
Damien Williams looks good at WR.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:39 pm
penn states corner must have taken lessons from D.Hall,he’s playin 8 yards off his man
January 1st, 2009 at 3:42 pm
Instant Karma’s gonna get you,slap you right accross the face =)
January 1st, 2009 at 3:47 pm
Oakglenn… that’s a pretty daunting task. We’re talking about an 80 year old man (who’s not in the best of health) basically rebuilding the whole football side of the organization. Add to that free agency and the draft and it just seems inconceivable that he can do his normal way anymore.
I feel for him, you know. He has “been” the Raiders for forty five years, and you know he’s a proud man. He’s accomplished more than anyone else, maybe in the history of the game, and done it his way. It’s a much bigger job now than it used to be, though, and he needs real help this time, not just a front man.
I just hope he realizes it and acts accordingly.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:52 pm
I have alot of buddies who said that the PAC 10 is weak. Now I bet they are eating their words right now.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:53 pm
PAC 10 undefeated in bowl games if TROJANS win today.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:54 pm
The TROJANS really run the VERTICAL passing game really well.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:58 pm
the raiders need to draft outside the state of california.
January 1st, 2009 at 3:59 pm
THE ROTTEN RAIDERS ACCORDING TO THE TWERP
The Raiders lost 73 games in the past 6 seasons.
The Raiders set a NFL record losing 11 or more games in 6 straight seasons.
TWERPING MORE TRUTH
The Raiders are irrelevant in the AFC West.
TWERPING EVEN MORE TRUTH
The Chargers bullied and beat the Raiders 11 in-a-row.
TWERP’S FINAL THOUGHTS
Who’s going to be the 7th head coach in 9 seasons for the putrid Raiders?…
It doesn’t matter…
The Chargers are masters of the Raiders today, tomorrow, and for many, many seasons to follow.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:03 pm
Raidersmaniac;with the developments of the last 3 or 4 weeks of the season,I think the Raiders should draft Alex Mack center Cal 1st =) I can dream 2
January 1st, 2009 at 4:06 pm
THE TWERPs team needs to win a SUPER BOWL before they can even talk. LETS not mention how many losing season do the chargers have combined.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:07 pm
This twerp does not know that his Discharger team is not even a winning team. They are not a winning team this year, and they are not a winning team in their history. Those who do not know their history are doomed to repeat it.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:16 pm
The chargers are irrelevant to the NFL – PERIOD. Rob ryan is gone. He’s going wherever Rex is headed. If gilbrided was punked by buddy ryan what makes you think he’ll control anything here?
January 1st, 2009 at 4:18 pm
GO RAIDERS DRAFT OTACKLE IN THE FIRST
January 1st, 2009 at 4:23 pm
i COULD ALREADY SEE THAT OLD AL IS GOING TO DRAFT TAYLOR MAYS 40 TINE 4.28 235 POUNDS.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:23 pm
sh:t they just said Taylor Mayes runs a 4.28 40.Say hello 2 our #1 pick lol
January 1st, 2009 at 4:24 pm
=)
January 1st, 2009 at 4:25 pm
we could do worse.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:30 pm
That’s what I was saying earlier. Mays is a bona fide stud player no doubt. He comes from that long line of excellent SC DB’s including Lott, Browner, Dennis Smith, Polamalu, among others. Just imagine our team with a guy like Troy Polamalu on it. Problem is earlier I saw Mays get run over for a TD. Can’t see that happening to any of the other guys I listed.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:35 pm
it happens to everyone once and a while.i’ve seem it happen to Polamalu.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:36 pm
Guy’s let’s let things unfold, it wont take long. Not that there’s anything wrong with guessing but to make definitive staements at this point, really no one knows. We can say what we want but other than that AL davis is the only one who knows for sure if he’s made up his mind. I mean who guessed correctly on Kiffin?
I just want the decision B4 the Senior Bowl.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:39 pm
gotta level with you lefty, I don’t remember seeing any of those guys on that list getting run over.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:39 pm
Cushing and Mathews have also looked pretty good today.we are watching the best Def ,if not the best team,in college football.it wouldn’t be bad getting a couple of their players.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:41 pm
After that last hit, Taylor Mays is hired!!
January 1st, 2009 at 4:41 pm
Even Jack Tatum got run over occasionally. He just won most of the time, he was dominant more than most.
But when guy’s like Larry Czonka ran the ball there was no DB that could take him on man on man he would just run right through guy’s.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:43 pm
TAYLOR MAYS IS A MONSTER. THE NEXT RONNIE LOTT.
6 3 238 POUNDS AND RUNS A 4.28 40 WHAT A MONSTER
January 1st, 2009 at 4:43 pm
Oak-it doesn’t happen with regularity that’s why they are who they are,but it does happen.as i said,i’ve seen it happen to Palamalu.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:45 pm
IM OFFICIALLY ON THE TAYLOR MAYS BAND WAGON. WHAT A FORCE IN THE MIDDLE. HE PUT THAT WR ON THE GROUND.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:45 pm
It was scarry just watching Larry Czonka he was soo difficult to bring down, Czonka, Jim Brown, Earl Campbell and Bo Jackson were probably the most devastating runners I ever saw.
MBush has the chance to be of that mold.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:46 pm
btw,happy new years fellow Raider fans.and also to those of you who come on here and say things like our team even though you aren’t fans.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Suspect, Mays’ speed can’t be a 4.2 he’s more of 4.45 – 4.5. $4.2 is Randy Moss type speed.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:50 pm
Priest-weren’t you and i saying the same thing about him last year when all the in site wanna be GMs were saying how we needed to draft Dmac.now don’t get me wrong,Dmac is a very fine player,but i doubt he’ll ever be the everydown back that Bush will or could be.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:55 pm
i’ve heard that is his time more than just today.every time i watch USC they say it.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:56 pm
Oak post #207 is what I’ve ben saying this year. It’s their attitude especially now that we have one the top young QB’s in the league. They can win just as many games as the attitude and commitment top excellence will allow. Coaches can take you so far your own confidence will do the rest.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:57 pm
Penn St scored and pissed USC off.
January 1st, 2009 at 4:58 pm
Tatum actually was a small safety. Jack Tatum didn’t go 220. I guess you guys are right, my point is if those guys get run over, you would see it on the highlight reels for years and I don’t remember seeing it live or seeing it on the highlight reels. I was on the bench for a 49er playoff game in Atlanta and Merton Hanks got completely run over by Jamal Anderson. I kept telling Hanks that the replay of that would be shown over and over and years from now little kids would go up to him and say, “weren’t you that chicken head guy that got RUN OVER during the playoffs….” Finally the 49er staff people got me away from Merton. But Hanks wasn’t a big safety either.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:05 pm
# Blackholepriest Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 4:56 pm
Oak post #207 is what I’ve ben saying this year. It’s their attitude especially now that we have one the top young QB’s in the league. They can win just as many games as the attitude and commitment top excellence will allow. Coaches can take you so far your own confidence will do the rest.
__________________________________________________
Well Priest it’s funny you say that. A very very famous football coach said, “the only difference between winners and losers is that winners believe in themselves.” I completely agree with that. That coach is Joe Paterno.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:07 pm
kirk herbstreet stated Mays runs a 4.28 40 about 10 minutes ago
January 1st, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Oak-he was small by todays standards.but he wasn’t small for his era.remember in those days LBs played at about 220-230.most DBs and a lot of RBs went under 200.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:09 pm
why is it the Raiders are never in a rush to interview the top assistants in the nfl?? Why 2nd or 3rd class guys to run the team? Is it because NONE of the top assistants are crazy enough to take the job? Al can’t get anyone else?? Sad, Sad, Sad….Al must go. Please sell the team.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:14 pm
Lefty12, you’re right and I still stand by that, even though I have a lot of confidence in DMC as playmaker. But you imagine if we had Chris Johnson RB and Sam Baker OT. I don’t think there’s many in here who wouldn’t take that trade right now.
Chris Johnson has brought explosiveness to Tenn and Sam Baker was a starter at LT this year. We already had MBush and HB was not high priority IMO. Mbush will start next year as our feature back IMHO.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:16 pm
please sell the team-are you really a Raider fan?there isn’t an owner who wants to win more than al the scumbag.there isn’t an owner who will pay to get players like him either.he has shortcomings,but at least you know he is trying.we could do a lot worse for owner-York,Ford,Bidwell-the list goes on.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:17 pm
Lefty I don’t think Tatum went a buck 90. Now I don’t know, I’ve never asked him or checked, he seemed like a buck 80 guy to me, which is what made him all the more amazing. That he would take peoples heads off being not that big. Atkinson is also not that big. He might be 5′11″ 210. And I remember watching him punch Russ Francis the TE for New England right in the grill the first play of a playoff game and bust his face up and Francis probably went 6′5″ 235.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:17 pm
and on
January 1st, 2009 at 5:20 pm
i hope he starts,but i thought that last year also.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:21 pm
Tatum went at about 205 at 5′11″ but it wasn’t his since it was pure toughness and tenascity just the hardest hitting DB I ever saw live. Ronnie Lott wasn’t in Jack’s league Ronnie was fearless but rarely knocked guy’s out, sometimes he would knock himself out. Tatum was a flatout knock out artist.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:23 pm
Suspect J, I am becoming a big Taylor Mays fan as well.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:24 pm
I’m hearing a lot of speculation concerning the drafting of a WR or an OT, but what about a DT?
The offense was moving the ball a lot better by the end of the year, but the defense was still having trouble with the run.
IMO if Cadillac doesn’t blow his knee in the Bucs game, the Raiders would have lost.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:26 pm
conjecture
January 1st, 2009 at 5:28 pm
2 drunk and buzzzzzzzzzD happy new year NATION
January 1st, 2009 at 5:28 pm
Oak-Tatum was about 200-205.but you mentioned Francis was about 235 at TE.that’s what i’m talking about.everyone was smaller in those days.hell,Shell was huge at about 278.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:31 pm
K-Rock, we had our own injuries as well in that game. Thomas Howard went out and we were down to our third string running back and fourth string corner. All that being said, I was in here before the last draft wanting Sedrick Ellis the DT from SC who had a solid year for the Saints, so I can’t overly disagree with ya.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:32 pm
It was a different era, Lefty. No doubt.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:34 pm
Lefty12, that’s why I respect yur opinion’s you dn’t let your issues with Big Al color your opinion. I’m the same way there are plenty of things he does that i dn’t agree, but I know that he knows how to win ad he wants to win.
People think he’s crazy and let’s his ego determine what he does. And smetimes that might be true but he will do all he can to win. And he’s not nearly as stupid as people want to beleve
January 1st, 2009 at 5:36 pm
The problem with Harbaugh is he sucks.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:39 pm
i wouldn’t be suprised if we didn’t take an OL until the middle of the draft.DE,DT,LB,safety,and possibly a CB are all needs.remember we had big red on IR this year who could step up as a starter next year.that being said,we really need another OT and possibly a OG since CC(RG) is a FA.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:39 pm
Lefty12, that’s why I respect your opinion’s you don’t let your issues with Big Al color your opinion. I’m the same way there are plenty of things he does that i don’t agree with, but I know that he knows how to win and he wants to win.
People think he’s crazy and let’s his ego determine what he does. And smetimes that might be true but he will do all he can to win. And he’s not nearly as stupid as people want to believe.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:44 pm
Priest-you know i have issues with him,but i know he is trying to win and isn’t afraid to spent the money to do it.a lot of owners won’t do that.take Brown in Cinn.,his organization is worse than ours and he is cheap.at least our owner tries.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:45 pm
Lefty 12 what would you say is the biggest need of the 09 Raiders??
January 1st, 2009 at 5:46 pm
talk to all of you later.gotta go.go Raiders.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:49 pm
Oak-D-line.just like i(along with you and others) said last year.
January 1st, 2009 at 5:49 pm
TAYLOR MAYS IS GOING TO BE A FORCE IN THE NFL
WILSON AND HIM WOULD BE A BUNCH OF MONSTERS
6 3 238 POUNDS 4.28 40
THIS GUY IS BEAST THE NEXT RONNIE LOTT
MARK SANCHEZ 82 PERCENT PASSING
January 1st, 2009 at 5:50 pm
TAYLOR MAYS THE NEXT RONNIE LOTT
WHAT A BEAST
HE HAS LINEBACKER SIZE AND DB SPEED
January 1st, 2009 at 5:59 pm
No question the Oline. We can’t take chances not getting what we need up front.
January 1st, 2009 at 6:00 pm
BHP – Are you disrespecting Ronnie again?
Just kidding. I used to think you were a blow hard until I witnessed Chris Johnson tear up the NFL after you called it. Well done.
You are the King.
HIRE CABLE!
Just Win Baby.
January 1st, 2009 at 6:01 pm
I’m on the Oline bandwagon myself. It is time to grab the marquee left tackle with the overall #7. Grab dline in the 2nd round.
January 1st, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Oakglenn’s Revenge get off that crack pipe we need “DEFENSIVE” playaz
#7- Rey Malaluga
#14 (acquired from New Orleans for quitter asomugha)Taylor Mays
This would be f!#kin awesome
January 1st, 2009 at 6:51 pm
Do your rooney thing Al, hire a sure fired GM, let him have the reins, keep the Cable man as HC, hire a creative play calling offensive coordinator, and lets get ready for the playoffs 2009. Oh by the way! pay everybody so we don’t lose any players draft Crabtree, get a couple of OL-men for the right side, pay attention to the D-line, move Kirk Morrison to OLB, find another hard nose ILB to stop the run, and we’re good to go.
January 1st, 2009 at 6:51 pm
FIRE JAFATSO RUSSELL!!!!!!!!!
January 1st, 2009 at 6:52 pm
Upgrade the recevers!
January 1st, 2009 at 6:52 pm
receivers
January 1st, 2009 at 6:53 pm
Geeez sometimes you have to wonder what the Oakland Raiders are doing…… Al Davis said he would move “quick” picking the next HC. And yet we have heared nothing. Only in Oakland.
If Mr. Davis wants Tom Cable like most of us do, why not interview for the rule and hire cable, the longer this drags out the worse it get’s.
We need stabilaty yesterday.
January 1st, 2009 at 6:54 pm
“heard”
January 1st, 2009 at 6:55 pm
I’m a dik suking loser.
January 1st, 2009 at 7:03 pm
I think O line is a priority, especially OT. However if we can’t get a sure fire O Tackle, I say go for Rey Rey outta USC.
January 1st, 2009 at 7:11 pm
no fix today?
January 1st, 2009 at 7:11 pm
I am a Cable fan as well,and it’s only a matter of time before they start saying “he looks like a Raider”,the way they said that about Rob Ryan and Robert Gallery.
Is there anything pointing in the direction of Dennis Green,not that I want it to.
Happy New Year All !!!!
January 1st, 2009 at 7:14 pm
BTW , I think they need to focus more on Defense,starting from coordinator.
January 1st, 2009 at 7:21 pm
The thing with Oakland is you never know what the hell is going to happen.
New D coord? Could be…
Draft a tackle with our current #1 draft pick? Maybe…
UFA Nnamdi and see if anyone bites on TWO 1st round DPs for us? Unknown…
Keep Lechler and make him the richest punter in history? Can’t say…
Stick with Javon and the current crew or snag another high priced FA? Your guess good as mine…
Davis hires a GM or stays status quo? Don’t know…
Makes Cable the man? Find out soon enough…
Like I said, with Oakland, you never know…
January 1st, 2009 at 7:27 pm
DarthPirate(Rob Ryan Must Go) Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 7:03 pm
I think O line is a priority, especially OT. However if we can’t get a sure fire O Tackle, I say go for Rey Rey outta USC.
======================================================
Tackle?
Me too. but they may go FA. Some decent prospects may be avail. to plug in right away where as a pick like Ryan Clady panned right away for the Broncos, that may not be the case for us unless we take a RIGHT tackle and eventhen, so FA may be something to look hard at.
May need to look at center and guard too. Supposedly a deeep O line draft in 09′ so you never really know, especially if Nnamdi gets UFA’ed and we end up with multiple 1st round picks…
Raiders don’t draft LB’s too high, so he’ll likely be gone by the 2nd round where they took Morrison and Howard, plus, I’m not sure Rey Rey’s the way to go. If Nnamdi’s gone, they very well could look at Jenkins or another high DB draft pick.
They could look at a tight end in the draft too…
January 1st, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Good point,I really didn’t think about tradig Namdi for DP’s.Was too concerned with keeping him cause was a lone bright spot on D,especially after D’Horrible Hall.
January 1st, 2009 at 7:32 pm
Oakglenn’s revenge….You know what ? You,… as always,… are completely right ! Just because Kelly was given the highest salary for his position in the history of the sport ,while “anchoring”, argueably ,statistically one of the most inept d-lines in 40 years,what could I have been thinking ?
January 1st, 2009 at 7:43 pm
Personally,I would love to see Bill Cowher if Al decides to give up some power and hand over some of the rigns,but it was noted on ESPN that there are other teams whose owners have their hands in everything as well,just that Al gets all that glory.
I think Cowher being a Steeler would not be a Raider anyway,but just a thought.
And if Shanahan is anything like a smart man,he wouldnt exactly rule out Raider Nation.
On second thought,scratch that.
January 1st, 2009 at 7:46 pm
The Raiders should look to pump up the o-line at tackle in the draft and then move on to the D-line…specifically a stud DE if possible. Sign a reliable (not highest priced, a solid vet WR JR can count on) WR in the off-season to mentor the young guns (JLH, Chaz, Shields?), but Al needs to turn his attention back to getting depth and stars in the trenches.
Oh and I’m officially on the “Hire Cable Team”…not an easy decision, but he earned a closer look with the way the season ended and even more important was how the young guys started developing. Plus they looked hungry. The young guys looked out to prove something.
One Nation Baby…
January 1st, 2009 at 7:56 pm
I think experience more than anything else will help the Offense in 09′,as well as one veteran reciever,remembering that we still have Drew.
But I have never been fully convinced of Rob Ryan’s ability to be DO,I just think he sux,and doesn’t learn very well from his brother either.
Maybe thats the frustration talking , but man he needs to adjust the D alot better during the game his decisions are at times perplexing.
January 1st, 2009 at 8:01 pm
Im still hating the thought of Nmadi possibly getting traded but if he must get traded I hope we get good value for him. The way Al is with trades I could definately see him pulling the trigger on some crazy trade. Seems to me if a trade goes down the Arizona Cardinals would prolly be our best bet to trade with. They have 3 wr’s who have 65 plus catches this year and at least 1,000 yards recieving. I know Fitzgerald is off limits but I could see Al pulling a trade for either Boldin or Breaston. With this kind of depth at wr it would make sense for Arizona to at least consider making a trade with us. What do you guys think? Something like Breaston and the cards 1st rounder for Nmadi. Boldin and there 2nd rounder for Nmadi. They also have a few decent defensive players maybe one of them could be worked in as well. Could be a good trade for both teams
January 1st, 2009 at 8:02 pm
After watching the replay of last Sunday’s game, how about giving Henderson the LT slot and draft him some competition…I’m laughing at the suggestion of Taylor Mays, a young ass sophomore who some think is NFL ready…can u say Darnell Bing?
Maulauaga…NO
Crabtree…MAYBE
Laurinaitus…MAYBE
Trade the pick….DEFINITELY
January 1st, 2009 at 8:02 pm
If Rob Ryan is the d coordinater again next year then I dont like our chances
January 1st, 2009 at 8:04 pm
All those USC guys play good within their little “clique” but as soon as they get drafted they turn to BUST status..
January 1st, 2009 at 8:05 pm
I wouldnt mind seeing us pick up Rey M actually. He culd be the spark our defense needs. Imagine if traded Nmadi for Anquin Boldin and a 2nd rounder. That gives us a wr. 1st round mlb. Then we could draft a dt and o-line 2nd round. 3rd round o-line. 4th o-line or d-line,etc etc and of course toss in a 4.2 cb somewhere lol
January 1st, 2009 at 8:06 pm
Well id definately agree with you recently about the usc wr for sure
January 1st, 2009 at 8:09 pm
Maybe trade the pick and Nnamdi for a proven reciever , O-Lineman , D-Lineman and go get some Ocho Cinco.
January 1st, 2009 at 8:10 pm
Rey M as a MLB as a rookie in the NFL would not help this team now with Morrison starting…the other LB spot is wide open..I think Laurinaitus has more of a fiery attitude than Rey, but that’s just me
January 1st, 2009 at 8:14 pm
We need to go in a more BLITZ HAPPY direction on Defense and get after every freakin’ Offense who dare oppose us!
January 1st, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Im definately not against another lb getting drafted. I hadnt seen enough of some of the other line backers this year to comment on their talent. I definately think lb is a weakness of ours right now as well as both sides of the line. Although the o line has made some drastic improvements with cable around. As long as theirs no major boneheaded moves this year I dont see why we cant finally conted in 09. The afc west is one of the weaker divisions right now. Cable is not my favorite choice for hc but he has got the guys motivated and id hate to see the team fall back into have a losing mentality if someone else was handed the reigns. So Im hoping he gets a shot and gets some good help as far as coordinaters go. One thing I do like about Cable is although some of his changes to the lineup etc have come slowly at least he is willing to make the changes. A lot of coaches dont even give it a shot to shake up the roster. Im hoping the team is at least competitive so I wont be ashamed to go watch them play the cowboys next year
January 1st, 2009 at 8:20 pm
Thats for sure RR. I cant even count the times Ive been watching a game the last few years and been thinking okay all we need to do is blitz here and it never happens
January 1st, 2009 at 8:22 pm
Senile King’s Aricept Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 7:32 pm
Oakglenn’s revenge….You know what ? You,… as always,… are completely right ! Just because Kelly was given the highest salary for his position in the history of the sport ,while “anchoring”, argueably ,statistically one of the most inept d-lines in 40 years,what could I have been thinking ?
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
King
I will let you and OakGlenn battle it out on this blog, but I wanted to inform you of some contract information.
The highest paid defensive lineman is Dwight Feeney.-$74 million $31 million guaranteed.
The highest paid defensive tackle is Tommie Harris of Da Bears.-$18 million guaranteed, $27 million over three years.
A few more interesting numbers here, Cory Redding signed with Detroit(his numbers don’t compare to Kelly) for $ $49 million $16 million guaranteed.
Recently Luis Castillo resigned with the Dischargers and his 4 year extension based on total dollars is more than Tommy Kelly.
Sean Rogers traded to Cleveland last year for Leigh Bodden was given an extension-$42 million over 6 years 19 million guaranteed. Jared Allen as a DE, was traded to Minn from KC was given a $74 million contract $32 million guaranteed.
The highest salary for a DT this year,2008 was Hanyesworth from Tenn.
I’m sure these numbers will be higher, the potential free agents are Julius Peppers,from Carolina and Hanyesworth from Tenn, those numbers will start reaching the QB level of compensation.
When Kelly signed his contract the overall contract was $1 million higher than Cory Redding and Kelly was proclaimed the highest DT from that total dollar number, but Kelly’s contract by the time the 2009 season starts will be in the bottom 10 of DT’S.
January 1st, 2009 at 8:24 pm
Yea I think at the time Kelly signed it was the highest contract but was topped a week or two later
January 1st, 2009 at 8:27 pm
I believe that losing mentality is very stubborn in the minds of the players and Cable has been as stubborn instilling a stronger will to rid them of that,so I think Cable should get the call for HC at for at least a 1 year deal.
Changing that mentality has been the biggest challenge for the Raider coaches.
I read somewhere Al and Bill Parcells are good friends and there is a remote chance he may bail the fins,if he does is there really a chance of Bill being a Silver and Black man or did someone just blow smoke up my whoo haa?
January 1st, 2009 at 8:29 pm
The whole Parcells leaving the fins hinges on if the owner sells the team sometime this month or next so even if he did leave them theres no telling if we would already have a headcoach by then or not and honestly he will prolly want more money than AL will fork out. Stranger things have happened with the raiders though
January 1st, 2009 at 8:34 pm
Sure would be strange if Shanahan ended up in the NFC West,say a team like Seattle ex AFC West team.
January 1st, 2009 at 8:37 pm
Noshadowking Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 8:24 pm
Yea I think at the time Kelly signed it was the highest contract but was topped a week or two later
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Noshadowking
Your right, and has been passed by 5 other players in the time period since his signing.
January 1st, 2009 at 8:38 pm
Good point Noshadowking,although I thought I heard something like next week for the sale or not of Dolphins.
But even still there is no guarantee that would translate into positive things , I mean TO got the better of the Cowboys ,and Parcells was out the door and that’s with a Jerry Jones type of owner.
January 1st, 2009 at 8:43 pm
Happy new year everyone….
Some early Draft thoughts:
With Mario Henderson around, we don’t have to take an OT in the 1st round, at least not yet. Mario gives us the option of taking the best player available with the 7th pick.
Now if that player happens to be an OT like Andre Smith, Jason Smith, Eugene Monroe, Michael Oher or someone else then we may take him, like Jerry says: you need 2 of them.
Points is, we don’t have to in this Draft, without Henderson we would definitely be forced to pick one in the 1st round.
But ss of right now, I’m against drafting a LT with our 1st pick, I don’t want Mario Henderson moving around from LT to RT like Robert Gallery, let Mario be the starting LT next season.
Draft another OT in the 2nd or 3rd round, that would be a solid move.
Having said that, here’s what I would like to see as of now:
1st Round: WR Michael Crabtree or S Taylor Mays.
Both have nice size and speed with the production to match their skills. They compare favorably with T.O. (without the drops and attitude) and Sean Taylor.
2nd Round: Many talented OL will be available rounds 2 and 3, which is another reason I’d be comfortable passing on OT in the 1st round….
DE LSU Tyson Jackson
OL Cal Alex Mack
OL Oregon Max Unger
OT Tulane Troy Kropog,
OT Arizona Eben Britton
OL LSU Herman Johnson
OL LSU Cyron Black
OL Oklahoma Phil Loadholt
OL Texas Adam Ulatowski
OL Ohio State Alex Boone
OL Oklahoma State Russell Okung
WR LSU Brandon LaFell
WR OSU Brian Robiskie
WR Florida Louis Murphy
I would really like Jackson as our LE, love Mack, Unger and LaFell too.
- It’s still way too early and a lot can change in 3 months, I’m very interested to see what happens with Oklahoma DT Gerald McCoy who may climb fast if he comes out….Alabama NT Terrence Cody is also a player to watch.
January 1st, 2009 at 8:46 pm
At one point I thought Ken Weisenhunt would have been ideal for the Raiders , but I am not at all impressed with the Cardinal play at all.Especially not letting Leinart have a full season yet , glad we passed on both of them.
January 1st, 2009 at 8:46 pm
Thank you Dell for that breakdown. That was basically what I was going to respond to Senile King Aricept. Sure, Kelly was the highest paid defensive tackle, but that lasted all of about 10 minutes. The other issue is Gerard Warren is out of contract right now. If we let Kelly go, (and other teams were certainly interested. New Orleans made a run at Kelly and then traded up to get Sedrick Ellis), and Warren leaves, what do we do then?? That would be a HUGE problem for us in more ways than one.
SKA, please accept my apologies, I am being much more curt with the posters on this site. People see that our run defense is not good and immediately say it is Tommy Kelly. Or Ryan. Or Ryan and Kelly. It is not quite that simple. The Raiders have spent 7 of their top 9 draft picks in the last two drafts on OFFENSE!!! TRYING TO IMPROVE THE DEFENSE! And with all those choices on offense our offense is still mired in the bottom of the league. Our passing offense was last in the league. Is that completely, totally Jamarcus’ fault??? Clearly not, altho some people will completely blame him.
Tommy Kelly had an average+ year. He did OK, and he was coming off an ACL tear. That really messed with his conditioning, especially early in the season. To say he was a bust, or not worth the $$$, or the reason our run defense was not very good, is just not factual.
January 1st, 2009 at 8:54 pm
Thats true Oak I dont think we can label Kelly a bust unless we put in a couple good players around him and his doesnt get any better. He had a decent year considering the injury recovery and all. Just like Gallery he was labeled a bust be honestly the man was learning from a different coach every year. He really stepped it up some this year. If him and Henderson improve again next year and we can pick up a couple more pieces for the o line then we may be looking at an above average line for years to come
January 1st, 2009 at 8:57 pm
I think the offense finally started running on all cylinders the last couple games of the season. I think if we can plug in a few more pieces on defense and grab a half way competent d coordinater next year then the defense will start to come around as well. As long as the offense and players like Bush and Mcfadden are handled correctly then we could definately look to contend in the weak afc west
January 1st, 2009 at 9:02 pm
Some of those players listed in 362 as possible 2nd rounders may not be there when our 39th pick comes up and others may drop into the 2nd day, I’m aware of that. Like I said, the Draft is 4 months away, a lot can happen but there will be talented players, specially OL beyond the 1st Round.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:02 pm
Long time no see real Oakglenn….
January 1st, 2009 at 9:03 pm
# ShawnRaiders81 Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 6:53 pm
Geeez sometimes you have to wonder what the Oakland Raiders are doing…… Al Davis said he would move “quick” picking the next HC. And yet we have heared nothing. Only in Oakland.
If Mr. Davis wants Tom Cable like most of us do, why not interview for the rule and hire cable, the longer this drags out the worse it get’s.
We need stabilaty.
^ Thats what I’m wondering also. It doesn’t surprise me that the old man is just lagging.
Everyone else around the league are getting ready to talk top GM’s and potential coaches and the stubborn still can’t move fast enough.
For f**ks sakes, if he wants Cable as HC, then just hire him already seo he can keep Rathman and Schneider.
How come the old mans coaching list doesn’t include Josh McDaniel or Spagnulo??
Because the old man already knows they won’t come here.
LOL
Why am I stuck with an old stubborn egomaniac of a owner to run my favorite team?
Terrible…
January 1st, 2009 at 9:04 pm
Nice post Bob. I really miss you and Dell not in here posting more often. You guys are a breath of reasoned fresh air.
I have to completely disagree with your post tho. Not every single team, but probably 80% of teams in the playoffs and recent Super Bowls have a marquee left tackle. I thought Mario Henderson played quite well all things considered but we need a marquee left tackle to get to the next level. Cleveland took Joe Thomas right after we took Jamarcus and they went from a 4 win team to a 10 win team. Parcells took Jake Long and they went from a one win team to the playoffs. Now, obviously it wasn’t just those two players that caused the complete turnaround of those franchises, but they certainly did not hurt either.
Getting excellent WR’s can be accomplished in later drafts when you are drafting 15-25th, and those type of players are available. Marquee left tackles will not be available at those spots. Of the lst 10-15 players taken this draft, at least 5 will be LT prospects!!! That is telling you something. Gotta say I do like Tyson Jackson early in the 2nd round tho!! Alex Mack will most likely be gone in the lst round. But Antoine Caldwell might be there in the third!!
January 1st, 2009 at 9:06 pm
Oakglenn’s Revenge I do see what you mean and those are all definate factors , my frustration directs me towards the more uninformed less analitical logic I guess.
I wonder , what’s your thought on maybe trading Fargas or Bush , or should we even be considering that?
January 1st, 2009 at 9:19 pm
Oakglenn
I know you and most guys will disagree with my current stance on drafting OL with the 7th pick. I would have no problem if we drafted an OT, but I do feel Mario needs a chance to prove himself, I mean, he played well when given a chance against good competiton, what else can he do?.
And look at the Playoff teams and you will find LT’s such as David Diehl, Mike Gandy, Sam Baker, Michael Roos, Tony Ugoh, Max Starks, Jared Gaither, Marcus McNeill….none of them drafted in the 1st Round, let alone in the top 10.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:20 pm
Rod, don’t even. What this year proved is you need THREE good backs. THREE. Cadillac Williams got hurt in the last game and Chucky was effed. Even if Tampon Bay won, without having that extra back, Chucky was effed if he had a playoff game coming up.
Our offense is really bad. That’s the bad news. The good news is We have some really nice pieces in place top build around. I think Jamarcus Russell is an absolutely excellent player. I really like Zack Miller, Michael Bush, Dmac and Fargas. I really like Higgins. I didn’t think Chaz had a future, but I was wrong, he has been very solid. That’s a lot right there. And that is not even considering Arman Shields who I think Raider fans are going to love next year.
The offensive lines need some serious upgrades. Our running attack seems very solid. We need to upgrade the passing game, which will in turn help our run game all the more. When you are building a passing attack the very lst thing you need is protection. Both tackle positions need to be upgraded. Our choices are either to:
1) Draft the kill LT, move Mario to RT
2) Leave Mario at LT and hope
3) Move Gallery back to LT, move Rob Felton to LG, and Mario to RT
4) Do something else.
I think if we choose option one, bring Arman Shields in, I think we could be a much better team next year.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:20 pm
Bob & OakGlenn
I have no idea about any of these potential college football players yet, there is time to focus in on their skills and personalities.
I will say this, the performance of our RT, Green has to be replaced as a definite need, most RT’s can be found in the middle rounds of the draft.
I also believe we need a center, he has to be not only smart and athletic but a strong fella at the point of attack. Since Barrett Robbins left we can’t move any nose tackle or DT that is big and strong, our running game suffers when we play Baltimore, Chicago, San Diego, and some of the other NFC teamsas well as a team like Tenn.
Mario Henderson has been improving, I still don’t feel comfortable with him at LT. I believe if you go into the OTA’S and his skill level has improved then try to find a veteran LT that can replace Henderson if he reverts back to his old self, meaning poor working habits and toughness.
If Cable stays, then the ZBS gets better and if he goes what will the the new HC prefer, at that point our line may change and all this talk won’t be valid.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:21 pm
It would be a shame to see another season wasted.
I want an 8 win season or better in 09′.
And I hope Kansas City continues to suffer growing pains because there is alot of potential over there.
San Diego in going downward , Denver is practically in pergatory.
We must win baby !!!!
January 1st, 2009 at 9:23 pm
And again, I’m not against drafting a stout OT in the top 10 or even top 3….I just think that this year we need to let Mario play and see what we got there. Specially since this Draft is deep on OL, we can get help in Rounds 2 and 3.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:30 pm
The O-Line is critical for Offensive success I agree , but the D-Line just needs one plug , cause theres always a hole for the opposing runner.
A good D C can fix alot without the need for alot of D players.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:31 pm
Player Team Pos Total(tackle) Solo Ast Sack
Trevor Scott OAK DE 24 19 5 5.0
Chris Long STL DE 40 32 8 4.0
Scott never started a game. Long started all 16 for rams.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:40 pm
I dont see K.C. taking a QB , they may still try to make up for poor O-Line play.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:42 pm
RaiderRod
I can’t disagree with your comment, the results of the past 6 years dictate we need a DT or a stronger LDE.
The blog has with justification asked for Rob Ryan’s dismissal as the DC.
My only question is the current defensive line play bad or not coached well. My other comment is based on what other NFL scouts and as I watched other teams, our defensive line does not hold at the point of attack and does not stay disciplined in their gaps.
The point of attack is troublesome, not enough toughness, but the discipline of not having good gap control really bothers me.
From what I see at the games and on TV our discipline on gap control is really bad.
Why? I’m sure it gets preached by the coaches and it’s not sinking in.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:44 pm
# Bob Marley Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 9:19 pm
Oakglenn
I know you and most guys will disagree with my current stance on drafting OL with the 7th pick. I would have no problem if we drafted an OT, but I do feel Mario needs a chance to prove himself, I mean, he played well when given a chance against good competiton, what else can he do?.
And look at the Playoff teams and you will find LT’s such as David Diehl, Mike Gandy, Sam Baker, Michael Roos, Tony Ugoh, Max Starks, Jared Gaither, Marcus McNeill….none of them drafted in the 1st Round, let alone in the top 10.
—————————————————–
Let’s go with this for a second. You are right about the New York Giants. The New York Giants somehow built an exceptional offensive line with basically a bunch of free agents. How they did that, I don’t think anyone knows.
Sam Baker has been out, and I don’t believe will be starting for Atlanta. Todd Weiner an original 2nd round choice should start. Weiner has played very well for Atlanta. Tony Ugoh, a 2nd rounder replaced Tarik Glenn (gotta love that name) from Cal, a former pro bowl lst rounder who retired right after the Colts Super Bowl Victory.
McNeil is also a 2nd rounder who is a Pro Bowl player. Jared Gaither is replacing Jon Ogden, a sure fire Hall of Fame Left Tackle that propelled the Baltimore franchise and won a Super Bowl. One game Dilfer threw a pick and the cornerback was returning the INT and I think the corner ran a 4.3 forty, Ogden thought he could catch him and ran 60 yards down field and when he realized he could come close but couldn’t catch him, Ogden grabbed the opposing safety who was running interference and LAUNCHED HIM at the corner, almost knocking him to pieces. Pretty good play by Jon Ogden. Wish we had a guy like that.
If we look at all the playoff teams
Philly: marquee left tackle
Atlanta: no
Minnesota: Yes Bryant McKinnie Awesome player
Carolina: Otah, lst rounder
Arizona: I thought Gandy was the right tackle over there and Levi Brown was the LT
Miami: marquee left tackle
Baltimore: yes who just retired
Pitt: no but still a 2nd rounder
Indy, SD, Tenn all also 2nd rounders who have played very well.
———————————–
So to answer your question half the playoff teams to me at least would have marquee left tackles and two franchises, Baltimore and Indy, just had theirs retire. JMHO.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:44 pm
Hey Dell…
I’m not sure why so many guys don’t believe in Mario Henderson. I mean, when he came out most scouts agreed he had good tools and nice potential, but he was a project…it’s not like he didn’t have the skills.
Henderson started 3 games against New England, Houston and Tampa Bay.
That means he faced a Belichick coached defense and a Monte Kiffin coached defense, those 2 guys usually eat up a young, unproven LT, they gameplan to take advantage of them…..and Mario played very solid.
It also means he played across 3 former top 10 picks in Richard Seymour, Mario Williams and Gaines Adams.
Henderson had zero penalties and did not allow a sack in those 3 games.
Does this mean he’s a Pro Bowler?.
No, but he deserves a chance, take the best player available at 7th and pick up some OL help in rounds 2/3.
IMO.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:47 pm
Hey Dell , your point on discipline is on target.
Proof has to be all flags we get , it doesn’t matter who plays for the team , who coaches the team , Raiders are always at or very near league leading.
That is one of the most frustrating things for me when I watch.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:47 pm
I wonder if any NFL team will make a run at Pete Carroll. Pete and Al. Can you imagine? Now THAT would keep Jerry McDonald full of story lines until one of them killed the other.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:47 pm
I’m not sure Cable is the guy we need, but I’m not really opposed to him coming back. I liked the way he interracted with the players as they showed a little of that on the NFL’s wired thing here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIgx1gTkRB0
January 1st, 2009 at 9:52 pm
Oakglenn
A marquee LT does not have to be a 1st round pick, that was my whole point.
And Gandy is LT in Arizona, Gross is LT in Carolina, he was a 1st rounder too.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:52 pm
Funny how somone in here actually had the nerve to say the Raiders “passed” on Whisenhunt and Payton as HC’s??
They rejected Al Davis, it wasn’t the other way around! LOL
There are NO DT’s worth taking at the #7 pick this year, so it will be best player available who the Raiders pick. Unless they trade down, which I think they should seriously consider.
Impact DE’s have more value than DT’s.
Players that project to possibly be available at #7:
Arron Curry
Michael Oher
Eugene Monroe
Taylor Mays
Rey Maeuluga
Micahel Crabtree
I would love to see Orakpo fall to us, but he will be gone as well as Andre Smith IMO. I don’t trust Texas DE’s either though, so I would rather have Curry.
A trade down to within 5 spots seems to be the logical thing to do possibly.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:58 pm
BOB
My only response is some food for thought. Mario in his first game when Kwame Harris was injured in KC played pretty well against Tambli Hall. He was their pass rusher, come to find out Hall had a terrible year and the KC Chefs had only 10 sacks for all of this past year.
Mario against the Patriots did play against Seymour and I watched that matchup real closely on my binoculars at the game. The field footing was real bad and we found out after the game Seymour had a bad back and didn’t finish the game, I know the game was over in the first half, but still a concern.
The Patriots play a 3-4 defense alignment.
The game against the Texans, Mario Williams was struggling with the field also, it rained and then drizzled throughout the game, but I will admit Mario held his own in those conditions.
I for one don’t believe Gaines Adams is an elite RDE yet, in fact Gruden called him out knowing the Raiders were starting Marion and Adams didn’t play well, and hasn’t been before the Raider game.
I’m a firm believer if he continues to improve and the Raiders believe he can be counted on then go in another direction on draft day.
I still believe we sign a veteran as an insurance player that can play LT and RT.
January 1st, 2009 at 9:58 pm
All I know is that if it’s not going to be Cable , they should ask John Madden to get out of the booth and back to the sideline!!!!
January 1st, 2009 at 10:02 pm
# Raider Dell Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 9:42 pm
RaiderRod
I can’t disagree with your comment, the results of the past 6 years dictate we need a DT or a stronger LDE.
The blog has with justification asked for Rob Ryan’s dismissal as the DC.
My only question is the current defensive line play bad or not coached well. My other comment is based on what other NFL scouts and as I watched other teams, our defensive line does not hold at the point of attack and does not stay disciplined in their gaps.
The point of attack is troublesome, not enough toughness, but the discipline of not having good gap control really bothers me.
From what I see at the games and on TV our discipline on gap control is really bad.
Why? I’m sure it gets preached by the coaches and it’s not sinking in.
____________________________________________________
As usual Dell, interesting post. Gap control is terrible. guys do not shed.
But when you look at the defense, the defense at times has played very well:
8 points given up to KC
3 points to Buffalo into the 4th quarter
7 points to SD into the 4th quarter
13 jets
17 Carolina
17 Miami
10 Denver
13 KC (other 7 was botched FG)
16 Houston
——————–
Again it is not an easy answer. What I think happens is guys come out on defense and they are understandably FIRED UP in the beginning of games!! So, they neglect to read their keys and start flying around the field, which you like, but, then they give up their responsibilites and it causes problems. You want defensive guys to be really aggressive. Our guys are, and especially early in games, opposing teams use that against us. Once we settle down, we generally play fairly well.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:07 pm
# Bob Marley Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 9:52 pm
Oakglenn
A marquee LT does not have to be a 1st round pick, that was my whole point.
And Gandy is LT in Arizona, Gross is LT in Carolina, he was a 1st rounder too.
____________________________________________________
I completely agree. I just find the teams that have been there recently, Dallas, Philly, Seattle, Chicago, Baltimore, Indy, have that high draft choice left tackle and those that don’t NE, SD, still have a pro bowl left tackle. Basically everyone that is there, has a pro bowl left tackle and the higher the draft choice the more chance that guy is going to be a pro bowler obviously. I really want that pro bowl left tackle@@!!! Can you guys tell???
January 1st, 2009 at 10:12 pm
The other issue I saw with Mario is he had a lot of help out there at times. I haven’t gone back to watch the tape of him in his last two games. Mario has potential. A lot of potential. He played his best games against top competition at Florida State. Again, my feeling is you draft a top notch LT (Oher, Monroe) move Mario over to RT, and voila, tackle problem, (which might be the biggest problem on the team), solved! Plus you have McQ as a backup RT/RG.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:14 pm
OakGlenn
The points allowed is a sign of a good to very good defense overall.
My point to Rod was and still is our defense, specifically the DL is 30th against the run and last year was about the same.
All fans and others here can see we need help stopping the run, I believe it is not ability, just discipline.
So again the question is where is the gap responsibility and why the continue breakdowns.
I know the Raiders can be jacked up at the start of the game but why does the gap control leave in the same game different quarter, or why do we contain the run in some games well and others it doesn’t seem were even there.
Dicipline is the only differnce in the NFL, those teams that play well on defense have the discipline and we do not.
I know personell has some issues, but the Raiders are always claiming after each loss by players and the common word is “disciplin” and that includes penaltys.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:18 pm
Dell
Ok, maybe that 3 game sample was not enough to convince you and it shouldn’t be.
But it’s a start and I don’t want Mario to be moved around from left to right like they did with Gallery, Henderson has proved he can, at least, play in this league, let’s see how far can he take it.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:18 pm
Oak-you asked me earlier what i thought our biggest need was and i said D-line.i would like to add,i wouldn’t be upset if we took an O-lineman first.as long as we take a big bad ass lineman-Off. or Def.-i’ll be happy.but we need Dlineman.since Warren is a FA all we really have is Kelly and Sands,plus joseph.but we all have to realize that whoever we pick probably won’t have any significant impact for a year or 2.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:23 pm
BOB
I agree keep Henderson at LT, everybody seems to think Marion can be moved to RT “pronto”
I got in a discussion with Dakota a few days ago, the move to RT is completely different, footing, foot work sliding, hand placement and usually you are next to a tight end on the strong side, so the point of attack is different than a LT.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:25 pm
That being said, I can’t complain if we draft a “Franchise” Left Tackle prospect.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:25 pm
I still believe we have approached to top of the hill and are now going to level out and be relevant again.
We have some players on injured reserve that should but wont be let go, i.e John Bowie.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:26 pm
Lefty12
let me jump in your comment to Oak.
The stats prove that Dorsey of the Chefs and Ellis of New Orleans had very little impact to their teams.
I know it’s only one year, and both missed games due to injury, yet they didn’t produce as advertised.
I last year wanted any one of the DT’S and if you look at what happened I believe DMAC was the correct pick.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:29 pm
Dell, absolutely. Good teams play disciplined through out the game. The Raiders do not. One of the points that I have brought up is Al Davis may not be the problem or that the coaching may not be the problem. Our last good playoff run we had Gannon, Rice, Brown, Romanowski, Rod Woodson as leadership on the field. What leaders do we have on our team now?? I don’t think we have any on either side of the ball. I really don’t, and it shows especially in crunch times.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:29 pm
What up fellas,
gettin a late start but was reading to catch up. Last couple weeks we’ve been on here touting Rey Maualaga. I watched the game in parts and got bored watching him. He seem irrelavent from what I saw. I know you guys see him out there alot more than I do so I was taking yalls word on how good he is.
I wouldn’t take him #7 from what I saw. I would focus on LT at #7….Taylor Mays made a couple plays but nothing special and if we gonna go after him because of combine numbers then we rollin the dice again. We got to go LT and maybe the best available DT or another OL in the 2nd round. I’m liking that Antoin Caldwell (Bama center) more and more everyday.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:29 pm
BTW fellas EXCELLENT discussions in here tonite!!
January 1st, 2009 at 10:31 pm
Dell-the 1st year or so everyone said Houston made a mistake by taking a DE instead of R.Bush.not anymore.you know it takes a few years before you can honestly judge a draft pick.very few if any D-lineman are show their worth in their 1st year.let’s not judge those guys quite yet.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:34 pm
If you really want to go center, I think the Cal center would probably be the closest thing to a sure thing. He wouldn’t fit in at our pick however.
—————————-
N.O. Raider Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 10:29 pm
What up fellas,
gettin a late start but was reading to catch up. Last couple weeks we’ve been on here touting Rey Maualaga. I watched the game in parts and got bored watching him. He seem irrelavent from what I saw. I know you guys see him out there alot more than I do so I was taking yalls word on how good he is.
I wouldn’t take him #7 from what I saw. I would focus on LT at #7….Taylor Mays made a couple plays but nothing special and if we gonna go after him because of combine numbers then we rollin the dice again. We got to go LT and maybe the best available DT or another OL in the 2nd round. I’m liking that Antoin Caldwell (Bama center) more and more everyday.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:35 pm
N O Raider
I know Suspect J has been touting Rey M, I have seen him play often living in Cali.
Rey is advertised a good MLB (mike) and will be a great football player whomever picks him.
Like I have said and others will disagree we need to look at OL, and then draft DT and WR.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:35 pm
Alright, if there is no trade down then my guess is that the old man will choose between an O-Tackle, Crabtree or Mays. Mays has great upside and he may be able to play a little OLB in the NFL if necessary. Too big and too fast, has long arms and built like a rock. Even though I am against taking a DB (again) Mays maybe too good to pass up.
I don’t think he will take a LB at #7. Rey Rey is good but he didn’t show me enough dominance in todays Rose Bowl game.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:36 pm
Dell, here were some of the things we were taught on Defense:
1) Play with emotion and enthusiasm
2) Develop a big play personality
3) Believe in yourself and your guys
4) believe you are the toughest unit on the field
5) expect to win
6) refuse to stay blocked
7) show character: overcome adversity, injury, heartache to win
Does this describe the Raiders defense??
January 1st, 2009 at 10:41 pm
as far as WR goes here is a scary thought.after the Houston game (i think that was the game) Morrison was on the post game show.when Walkers name was brought up i could see him gleaming on the radio.he went on about how good Walker is and how he shows it in practice when healthy.he said next year when Walker got healthy we would see how outstanding he is.just thought some would find that interesting.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:42 pm
As sure as Al loves a sppedy WR , a strong armed QB and talent over skill , the defense has always had troubles with one of the most basic things.
Missed TACKLES.
The draft can’t cure discipline.(or lack thereof).
January 1st, 2009 at 10:43 pm
The bama center Caldwell would be a great asset to the team. He is a vocal leader and very tough. O-linemen say center is the most important position on the line although we always argue for LT.
Something that won’t show in the stat sheet if we get Caldwell. Dude is from Montgomery, AL. and JaMarcus is from Mobile. They would have alot in commom and are around the same age and would most likely become good if not best friends. A guy like that would do everything in his power to protect his friend and our franchise JaMarcus Russell.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:43 pm
We probably need to draft a pass rushing DE who is strong and stout against the run before a DT if necessary. We didn’t have very many sacks this year and Scott will probably remain more of a situational pass rusher and Burgess maybe traded or let go after next season also.
Hard working DT’s can be found in rounds 4-7.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:45 pm
Lefty12
Oak goes to the game like I do, he may have some different thoughts than I, but I saw very little this year from Walker.
When you watch on TV the camera pans to the center of the field, and you couldn’t see on run plays Walker was no help and on certain pass plays Walker had no seperation.
I know he has assorted injurys, but the movement and motivation really turned me off.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:46 pm
IMO…
Drafting a MLB (Rey Mauluaga) with the 7th pick is not a good idea.
Morrison and Howard are great in coverage and they stay on the field on most passing downs, NFL teams are playing Nickel or Dime Defense somewehere close to 40 percent of the time nowadays.
That means you often have to take out one of your starting LB’s to bring in a DB…..and we are not sitting Howard or Morrison on passing downs.
We need to find a two down MLB who comes off on passing downs, a big, hard-nosed run-stopper. You can find one of those on the mid-late rounds or sign a veteran, like we tried with Hartwell but he was done.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:46 pm
The thing about Alex Mack the center from Cal is I think he graduated in 3.5 years, got a second degree and then won the NCAA Academic All American Award. In other words, this Mack guy is one smart hombre. That is one of the major criticisms I have of the Raider drafts. They don’t seem to draft smart players. That might be why we keep having problems with discipline. I would love to have Alex Mack but I would have a hard time believing he would last into the 2nd round.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:46 pm
TE? I don’t know…
“Could the Raiders go TE in the 09′ Draft?”
http://www.raidernationstation.com/2009_pre_season
January 1st, 2009 at 10:47 pm
N.O. Raider Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 10:43 pm
The bama center Caldwell would be a great asset to the team. He is a vocal leader and very tough. O-linemen say center is the most important position on the line although we always argue for LT.
Something that won’t show in the stat sheet if we get Caldwell. Dude is from Montgomery, AL. and JaMarcus is from Mobile. They would have alot in commom and are around the same age and would most likely become good if not best friends. A guy like that would do everything in his power to protect his friend and our franchise JaMarcus Russell.
_______________________________________________________
Nice angle N.O , that may be a factor.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:49 pm
Dell-don’t misunderstand me.i saw what you saw.i was just relating what Morrison was saying.i’m sure if he feels this way,so does the power that be-AD.just food for thought.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:49 pm
Walker to me was a baaaaaad move , he plays as disinterested as Moss played.
Not playing with a full deck.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:52 pm
If we need a safety we could look at Bama Safety in later rounds. I forget his name but he is #49. Watch him tomorrow. Saban has put out some good DB’s to the NFL. Also LSU’s DT/DE Rickey Jean-Francois will declare for draft. LSU’s DE Tyson Jackson is projected as a 1st round pick and Jean-Francois is better and more powerful. Both those guys would be an upgrade over Jay Richardson.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:55 pm
I LOVE that Antoine Caldwell guy. He is going to be a very good player.
“Jivin” Walker was a waste of time. We needed a number one receiver, none were available, the Godfather went and got one, and it didn’t work out. We should keep him on the roster next year just to avoid a major cap hit, but he’s done.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:55 pm
Oak-isn’t Mack projected to go early in rd 2?it is possible he could drop to us.or we could move up in the 2nd rd to get him.not only is he intelligent,according to Cals coaches,he is coachable.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:55 pm
Spagnuolo is a very busy interviewing individual these days.
High on everyone’s list.
January 1st, 2009 at 10:57 pm
Lefty, I would do anything to have say, Monroe, Oher, or dare I say it, Andre Smith, and then Alex Mack in the 2nd round. Offensive line problems?????? Not anymore.
Did you guys see Jamarcus when he had even a tiny sliver of time to throw???? dude was baaaaaaaaddddd!!!
January 1st, 2009 at 10:57 pm
RaiderRod Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 10:55 pm
Spagnuolo is a very busy interviewing individual these days.
High on everyone’s list.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Rod
So was Eric Mangini three years ago.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:00 pm
Oakglenn,
I know you lobbying for Alex Mack and I wouldn’t be upset if we got him but mentioning how smart he is academically with awards and graduating in 3.5 years reminds me too much of Kwame Harris. Word is that cat is academically a Rocket scientist and speaks like Colin Powell.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:01 pm
Later fellas, great topics tonight.
Bob come around more often.
Keep the Faith
January 1st, 2009 at 11:02 pm
Oak is right; LT and C and many problems are solved.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Getting Alex Mack would be nice, but if he’s gone we can turn to C Max Unger from Oregon, he’s very athletic and versatile, can probably help at 2 positions.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:06 pm
Oak-as i said i’d prefer a big bad ass D-lineman,but i’d be happy with a big bad ass O Lineman.as long as lineman is somewhere in the name,it’s acceptable to me.to be honest,it wouldn’t bother me if our whole draft was big,bad ass linemen.if Shields is all everyone thinks we are in pretty good shape WR wise,especially if Walker can play(as a back-up preferably).
January 1st, 2009 at 11:06 pm
N.O. you’ve been solid in here with your posts. They’ve been excellent, so if you like Caldwell, hey I’m with ya. The only disappointing thing is I would like some of the guys in here to watch Andre Smith, but he is suspended for the Sugar Bowl game. I’ve watched him a bunch and he is something. Now, I’ll just watch Caldwell the whole game!
January 1st, 2009 at 11:07 pm
N.O. Raider Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 10:43 pm
The bama center Caldwell would be a great asset to the team. He is a vocal leader and very tough. O-linemen say center is the most important position on the line although we always argue for LT.
Something that won’t show in the stat sheet if we get Caldwell. Dude is from Montgomery, AL. and JaMarcus is from Mobile. They would have alot in commom and are around the same age and would most likely become good if not best friends. A guy like that would do everything in his power to protect his friend and our franchise JaMarcus Russell.
^ Agreed, good insight. I think Caldwell could be had in Round 3….another Center that could fit the description of Caldwell would be Arkansas Center Jonathan Luigs.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:08 pm
That’s true Dell , but I think that had alot to do with the fact that he was a Belichik boy.
On another note , I guess Monroe and Smith are the best chances for us to pick at #7 for the O.
If both are availabe , who do we pick?
January 1st, 2009 at 11:09 pm
Well fellas, anything can happen on draft day. Guys slip thru the cracks other crazy things happen, so, I’m sure it will be fun. Prepare for some knock down drag out fights in here about who we want over the next four months!!!! With that, Happy New Years to all of you and your families!!! Nite.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:09 pm
Can we draft the diet pepsi machine?
January 1st, 2009 at 11:10 pm
Yeah, good night people.
Nice to see you guys.
And we didn’t even get into the coaching talk….lots of stuff to say about that too…maybe next time.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:10 pm
goodnite Oak,and i agree,good conversation this evening-no name calling and childish drivel.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:12 pm
Nite everyone,
Happy New Raider Year !!!!
January 1st, 2009 at 11:12 pm
nite Bob.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:23 pm
Later guys, until tomorrow.
Watch the Sugar Bowl. I/m no Bama fan (LSU for me) but they got players.
Keep eyes on Center Caldwell and Safety (name?) #49.
People talk about Crabtree is the man at WR. Check out Bama true freshmen Julio Jones #8. #1 overall pick material junior year.
They got a great corner too #3 Kareem Jackson but only a sophomore. He’s a surefire 1st rounder too. And of course Mt. Cody #62. This week he says he is returning to Bama and that may be solid, but you never know.
Later.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:27 pm
# S&B – Nation Collective Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 8:05 pm
BHP,
They would set us back. All 3 of those coaches would have to establish relationships with a team that is already skeptical that any coach will stick around. They finally have a coach they can trust. Grove said as much when he said “Kiffin quit on us after week 1″ in support of Cable. Russell had good things to say about Cable and his methods. And don’t discount how Nnamdi stood with Cable in celebration fo the victory.
Not to mention that the offensive game plan would probably change RADICALLY!
Harbaugh!?! How is this team going to respond to another bright eyed young coach set out to conquer the league! Been there and done that!
Gilbride and Fassell are older/failed coaches that don’t even understand the makeup of this team.
Cable knows the players, knows the playbook, coaches and the owner.
I would consider it a huge failure if Al Davis hires someone else. I really would be disappointed
^ Your wrong about Harbaugh being a young bright eyed coach. Harbaugh is the same age as Cable and 43-44 and you forget that Harbaugh has played in the NFL before and was a gutsy, competitive QB who worked hard and never quit. His teamates always rallied behind him. He knows NFL players and what it takes to win. If he is half as good as his brother John in B-More in his first like his bro, then that would be a great thing for the Raiders.
If the old man is not going after McDaniels or Spagnuolo, then Harbaugh or Cable need to be hired as the Head Coach. Fassel would be good as OC or QB coach, Gilbride would suck and and mind screw Russell, Dennis Green would be a waste, and Martz would get Russell killed AND mind screw him.
For those who compare Cable to Bugel…your off base.
Cable has upside, can call plays, and maintans discipline. Bugel couldn’t call plays to save his life and was too much of a players coach. Players coach= no discipline
January 1st, 2009 at 11:45 pm
one of the main reasons Cable is such a good choice is he embraces working WITH the owner,not just for him.in our organization that is extremely important.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:47 pm
# Raider Dell Says:
January 1st, 2009 at 10:26 pm
Lefty12
let me jump in your comment to Oak.
The stats prove that Dorsey of the Chefs and Ellis of New Orleans had very little impact to their teams.
I know it’s only one year, and both missed games due to injury, yet they didn’t produce as advertised.
I last year wanted any one of the DT’S and if you look at what happened I believe DMAC was the correct pick.
^Agreed! I was on the same boat last year when it comes to drafting a DT within a top 5 or this year a top 7 pick. You don’t do it! Especially if there is a pass rushing DE who is strong and fast on the board ahead of him or a franchise LT or RT, or a gamebreaking RB or WR or a beast of a LB available.
Last year was a no brainer to take DMC over DT’s Dorsey and Ellis. Those guys had little to no impact on their teams and will be washed often on plays. DT’s can found later in the draft, not within the first 5 or 7 picks IMO.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:54 pm
in case you didn’t notice,Dmac missed considerable time with injuries this year and didn’t produce as advertised.saying he was a better pick at this point in time is not justified.
January 1st, 2009 at 11:57 pm
that might change in e few years though.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:08 am
Commiserate all you want to over who we should draft, girlies. I can tell you right now that if Al Davis isn’t maggot food, it won’t make a bit of difference. We’ll put guys in the wrong position (Bush at FB). We’ll use the wrong schemes. We’ll still play scholarship players when harder workers should be starting in their place, and on that note, getting Russell more reps in leau of running the football. We’ll suck. We’ll lose. I just wish Al Davis would just go to sleep and not wake up. I really hope he doesn’t live long like his mother. If he does, we’re going to suck for at least another decade. God please take that worthless sack of shyt. Happy New Year, everyone.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:11 am
btw,Darkknight-i feel the same way about RBs as you do about DTs.doesn’t make you wrong or me wrong-just our preferences.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:34 am
You’re both wrong because both of you douchebags think we have any chance of winning with Al Davis still alive.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:00 am
MR, their you are.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:01 am
DMC is only 21 years old and doesn’t need to have monster numbers to have an impact for the offense.
Having a gamebreaking weapon like him opens things up for the other players around him on the offense and helps take the pressure off a young QB like Russell.
DMC was the no brainer pick at #4 last year.
Both Dorsey and Ellis were just as hurt as DMC was. Hello no I take a freakin DT #4 overall ahead of a gamebreaking versatile RB.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:34 am
One year is not career for any of them. And Ellis was having a decent season prior to injury. Here’s another thing out of the 3 QB’s; Matt Ryan, Joe Flacco and JaMarcus Russell guess who was playing the best at years end……….ding ding ding…JaMarcus Russell!
Once things got settled around Russell he stated to play much better and played very well 5 out of his last 6 starts. While those guy’s were slowing down he was speeding up. I don’t know what his QB rating was but it was much higher and so was his completion percentage. Which is really overrated because all you have to do is throw more to your HB and check it down to get a high %. It’s his 3rd down percentage and playmaking ability that I value much higher than completion %. And he made some very big plays late in the year.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:42 am
More than anything else contrary to popular belief Russell has more to do with the Raiders fortunes in the immediate future than what many want understand.
I’ve said it many times, when Russell is ready we’l win and now that he’s ready we will win …………..period. Suckers who think Al Davis will be destructive with that are just haters. The way we were playing at years end if we play that way starting out next year, WE WILL WIN………..period
Al Davis or no Al Davis WE WILL WIN
January 2nd, 2009 at 4:49 am
Cardinals look to avoid TV blackout (AP)
sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-cardinals-blackout&prov=ap&type=lgns
Eagles’ McNabb makes return to playoffs (AP)
sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-eagles-vikings&prov=ap&type=lgns
I don’t want to hear from trolls about how the Raiders can’t sell out a REGULAR season game, EVER!
January 2nd, 2009 at 4:50 am
Correction:
Playoff blackout for Eagles-Vikings? (AP)
sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-vikings-tickets&prov=ap&type=lgns
January 2nd, 2009 at 4:59 am
COPENHAGEN FAN..
Det er ikke de største skole, men han er trods alt på vej, det bliver spændende at følge ham..
http://spn.dk/andensport/amfodbold/article1557293.ece
January 2nd, 2009 at 5:23 am
Peter’s Picks for 2009
introducing our No 1 pick of the 2009 draft:
uh, that is if he declares:
my understanding is that young Mr Cody intends to play another year at Alabama… fine !!! we take him next year…
i will put up a list of possible 1st round replacements later today… something else… i watched Maualuga play yesterday… uh… he seems slow to react… i’m not sure he won’t have problems at the pro level… now please allow me to take cover before the vegetables are launched…
Defensive Tackle
Terrence Cody, Alabama
Height: 6-5. Weight: 365.
Projected 40 Time: 5.50.
if drafted i would have him outfitted with surgically implanted extra-skeletal knees…
introducing our 2nd round pick…
he starts day one:
Defensive Tackle
B.J. Raji, Boston College
Height: 6-1. Weight: 325.
Projected 40 Time: 5.12.
introducing our 3rd round selection:
Offensive Lineman
Augustus Parrish, Kent State
Height: 6-6. Weight: 308.
Projected 40 Time: 5.13.
Could be RT or Guard…
or a truly excellent blocking dummy…
schit, it’s all a crap shoot…
Here is our 4th round selection…
our brand spanking new middle linebacker:
Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina
Height: 6-2. Weight: 267.
Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
Here’s our 5th round draft choice…
Nobody (we didn’t want anybody in this round anyway…)
our round six draft choice will be:
Defensive End (and Burgess’ replacement)
Derek Walker, Illinois
Height: 6-4. Weight: 272.
Projected 40 Time: 4.74.
this guy will kick ass…
i think.
Our 7th round selection will be:
Our future starting center
Dallas Reynolds, BYU
Height: 6-5. Weight: 328.
Projected 40 Time: 5.30.
Plays backup 1st year, starts the second…
Yeah, baby, that’s raiderin’…
January 2nd, 2009 at 5:27 am
I.. Need.. to.. watch.. some.. sport!..
Stop this dry spell NOW!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 5:42 am
Blackholepriest Says:
December 31st, 2008 at 8:30 pm
If what you say is true then how in hell did Cable make soo much headway. How did Cable turn this team into a contender without an offseason. Al Davis was still the owner and the same meddling fool you all say he is.
Then how did cable capture this teams attention to detail and cut out the penalties and make them believe? Just how did he accomplish that with Al Davis still here?
And why do the players see a light at the end of the tunnel. Just hw did Cable straighten out this Dysfunctional mess in such short order?
—————————————————-
I like your comments BHP. You sound like a true Raiders fan.
January 2nd, 2009 at 5:51 am
[...] McD: The problem with Harbaugh The problem with Harbaugh The problem with Harbaugh – Inside The Oakland Raiders – A look inside the world of the highly class… __________________ RaideroftheSith aka [...]
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:01 am
After some seriously deep thought, a call to my psychic, and listening to my 4 year old son explain the fundamentals of life to me…
I have arrived at my 1st pick of the 2009 draft. We pick 7th, so it’s not so much as picking for need as picking for need AND getting the best guy available…
So…
If Michael Oher (LT, Miss) is available, we take him…
If Oher is not available, we take Eugene Monroe (LT, Virginia)…
If neither of the above are available, we take Michael Crabtree (WR, Texas Tech)…
If all the above are not available, AND we lose Nambdi, we take Malcolm Jenkins (CB, Ohio State)… what… you’re kidding me… okay… THE Ohio State…
If we don’t lose Nambdi, and Oher, Monroe, and Crabtree are gone, then we take Taylor Mays (S, USC)
That’s it… them’s my ideas…
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:02 am
Tak for info LMN….håber ham der “danskeren” klarer sig i NFL! Det vil være fedt!
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:04 am
I agree with BHP…if Jamarcus can crank it up we’re in the race….everything we do in the “futchah” is based on JaMarcus and his ability to produce on the field and as a leader.
He’s not a bust yet.
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:10 am
people who are saying Jamarcus is a bust are not paying attention…
i still remember Elway lining up behind the guard in his second year…
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:14 am
The first three candidates expected to interview for the Broncos’ coaching vacancy are New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, Tampa Bay Buccaneers secondary coach Raheem Morris and New England offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. The Broncos expect to speak with Spagnuolo on Saturday, McDaniels on Sunday and Morris on Monday.
***
uh oh. If the donks somehow land Steve Spag, that will really hinder Russell’s development …
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:16 am
Copenhagen fan..
ja for fandend, det kunne være sejt!
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:16 am
I’d love Raheem Morris as our new DC! come on Al!
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:22 am
Copenhagen FAn..
too late, he is already promoted in tampa, I too was hoping we would get him as DC, but Al is as usual too late..
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:26 am
Too late at everything except biting the big one or relinquishing control… ha ha
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:26 am
Raiders kick returner Justin Miller was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Month for December.
It might be Miller’s only accolade as a Raider because he is a free agent. If Tyvon Branch is healthy the Raiders might opt to let Miller walk.
Jason Jones (Sac Bee)
***
NO !!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:27 am
It’s my birthday today and it was a great start of the day to wake up to a bj
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:28 am
Tomlinson & Gates haven’t practiced all week for the dolts. HAHAHA!
The Colts are going to tear them apart when these two baffoons try to play injured tomorrow …
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:29 am
bj?
Billie Joel?
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:30 am
yeah…BIG SHOT ha ha
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:32 am
If Taylor Mays enters the draft how will al pass him up when he run a 4.3 40 and is 230 could be the impact player we have sorely lacked. Don’t compare him to huff he is more like polamu with better speed and size.
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:39 am
the S and MLB from USC will be good pros, taken in the first round. Hopefully Al Davis passes on both and addresses a need.
Any chance OT Andre Smith slips to #7 due to his recent incident? Mike Mayock had him listed at #2 last week…
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:42 am
So you take a game changing rb over a big time dt when was the last time the Raiders could stop the run. IF you cant stop the run you dont win period!
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:49 am
RRS… lol, and MLB is not a need?
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:50 am
IF you cant stop the run you dont win period!
***
Agreed. most of those problems have to do with Rob Ryan. scheme & coaching, not players …
However, i’m sure we all know Harris & Green would stink in any scheme under any coach …
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:55 am
LMN… Al was not too late with Raheem Morris; he was never going to come here anyway. It was announced as early as last year that he (Morris) would succeed Monte Kiffin as DC in Tampa. I think that fact was also mentioned when Kiffin the Younger tried to fire Ryan; there was speculation that he was after Morris (who was still under contract with TB and therefore not available) and the rebuttal to that was the aforementioned and the fact that Tampa had basically appointed him “DC in-waiting.”
You’re not late if you’re not playing.
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:00 am
I think between Morrison, Howard, Brown & Alston the LB corps is ok. I think if we move Huff & Branch to corner, which they played in college and resign Chris Johnson we’ll be ok in the secondary too. Justin Miller should be resigned for special teams and an extra db in the nickel or dime. plus who knows what we got in Darrick Brown or John Bowie? Asomugha may be around for 1 more season, maybe not. You can’t count him as part of the future until he signs that long term deal, which isn’t likely… Burgess & Edwards are in the last year of their contracts, so we’ll need at least 1 DE this offseason unless Greyson Gunheim can be that guy.
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:01 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:50 am
IF you cant stop the run you dont win period!
***
Agreed. most of those problems have to do with Rob Ryan. scheme & coaching, not players …
However, i’m sure we all know Harris & Green would stink in any scheme under any coach …
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
when did harris and green start playing defense???
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:01 am
DRAFT OFFENSE !!!
BUILD THE O-LINE !!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:03 am
when did harris and green start playing defense???
***
the same time you quit being sarcatic. never
we’re comparing needs here, was it that hard to figure out?
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:11 am
keep your apples with your apples…
keep your oranges with your oranges…
lmao…
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:12 am
lol
i’ve played that game Apples 2 Apples.
family fun
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:25 am
hmm
i somehow couldn’t post it, but I see FLpete already touched it..
I cant see how Rob Ryans schemes has anythign to do with Green and Harris…
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:30 am
LMN, you’re 20 minutes late. you missed the boat
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:30 am
in a few years the only top-tier TE in AFC West will be zach Miller, because Gates and gonzales is going downwards now, and if the line and Jammy gets better less blocking will be put on Millers shoulders..
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:32 am
here’s something for you to chew on …
Raiders 2009
RB: Fargas, McFadden, Rankin
FB: Bush, Griffith, O’Neal
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:32 am
RRS..
yeah, i am, as i stated, but why would you say something like that, in the first place?
just like you think robiskie would be a good HC.. I simply cant understand such statements..
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:34 am
RSS..
Fargas needs to be traded, I will be truly sad if he joins up next year.. and waste Bush as FB is like letting Jammy be a DE, he has the size, he might even get the job done, but its still a waste of talent..
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:38 am
Griffith & O’Neal finished on IR with OO’s injury being pretty serious. He might start the year on the PUP list, in which case Bush would be the FB again.
Fargas is a favorite of Davis/Cable, so it’s fair to assume he’ll return as the starter. Especially after being awarded the Commitment to Excellence award again by his teammates and asst coaches.
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:38 am
People still want Bush at FB? What a waste.
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:41 am
Bush will not be asked to do fullback duty again…
if anything Fargas should be the versatile one…
he does like flying into people…
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:42 am
“if the line and Jammy gets better”
LMN, so the players on the line are good. don’t need to be replaced? just need to “get better” ?
RG Carlisle & C Wade are free agents and Jake Grove can opt out of the final year of his contract and become one too.
how does a MLB or safety address any of these problems? Russell & McFadden need protection and blocking to excel.
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:43 am
RRS..
Fargas contract was put together so a trade would be lucrative for both player and team..
that said, each time Bush was at FB, we didnt go that well, with lawton in, we did very very well..
Im not saying Lawton is a great FB, but he showed us, that almost any FA FB will be better than bush at FB..
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:44 am
People still want Bush at FB? What a waste.
***
not saying i want that, just saying it’s likely going to happen … just like Nnamdi getting the franchise tag again
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:47 am
we’re not keeping 3 FB’s on the roster … most teams on carry 1 or 2 (at the most)
Griffith will start again if healthy. O’Neal will back him up if healthy. If these players aren’t full go by the time players start working in the summer, Bush will be asked to play a little FB. Lawton is a scrub. He’d be lucky to crack any roster next season.
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:48 am
RRS..
again your need to get you oranges and apples..
I assume our line will become better because it really cant get any worse.. IF the line gets better and Miller will be more free in pass situations, we will have the lone great TE in the AFC west..
I hope we get carlilse back, wade and Grove can leave, the quicker, the better.. that was the apples
lastly lets go to the oranges, a MLB is very very important in stopping the run, I know you know that, unless we stop the run, we cant win..
we do not need a S, I like the talent of Branch, and though I dont like Hiram he actually done some good, still like Rashad Baker better…
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:50 am
Fargas contract was put together so a trade would be lucrative for both player and team..
***
1. nobody EVER said that. that is your assumption
2. the Raiders love Fargas and Fargas loves the Raiders
3. Fargas has no trade value
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:51 am
RRS..
I believe Bush showed during the buc game, that Al Davis should play RB next season..
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:52 am
the thought of Grove buying out his contract makes me want to laugh…
if he asks nicely the Raiders just might let him go…
the $1.95 signing bonus he gets offered is definately going to hurt his feelings…
oh, and that offer will come from Jon Gruden…
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:55 am
LMN, so what does the starting o-line look like next year to you?
LT: Henderson
LG: Gallery
C : Morris
RG: Carlisle
RT: Green
what do we have for depth? McQuistan & Harris?
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:56 am
Well here’s to Rex Ryan getting the Jet’s job! That way he can take his brother to ruin the Jets defense.
Realistically speaking he would not bring his brother to NY as he will manage the defense himself.
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:58 am
Pete,
Norv Turner drafted Grove, not Gruden. I can see Jake Grove going to the Chargers if Norv is retained, but I think Norv gets fired after the dolts choke tomorrow night …
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:58 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:44 am
People still want Bush at FB? What a waste.
***
not saying i want that, just saying it’s likely going to happen … just like Nnamdi getting the franchise tag again
_________________________________
Well, whatever ass clown coach that wants Bush to play FB should not be retained.
Cable, I am looking at you…
Maybe you will give Harris another shot at LT next year and put Walker and Lelie back in as starting WRs too???
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:59 am
Well here’s to Rex Ryan getting the Jet’s job! That way he can take his brother to ruin the Jets defense.
***
I hope so too Ian, but I have a feeling the Jets will go after Shanahan or Schottenheimer.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:00 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:50 am
Fargas contract was put together so a trade would be lucrative for both player and team..
***
1. nobody EVER said that. that is your assumption
2. the Raiders love Fargas and Fargas loves the Raiders
3. Fargas has no trade value
__________________________________________________
okay.. I see you want to start a piss-contest..
1) it was said here by JerryMac, it was said in tv by the start of the season… year okay maybe not not the best sources, but then there is LOGIC.. it was 12MM and 6 guaranteed, that is the posterchild deals of contract worth trading…
2) if Fargas loves the raiders, he would like to be traded, because he then should know we NEED 2nd round and 3rd round picks.. lastly a player who does not strive for bigger stuff is not exactly a rolemodel either… loyalty is great, but if it means no aspiration, then its not that great..
3) no trade value, well I dont know about that, 2nd and a 4TH would be sweet, and even a 3rd and a 4th would be great, we need picks in 2nd4th round desperately.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:01 am
hmmm, didn’t see the part where i said Gruden drafted him…
but…
Gruden has a penchant for taking in former S&B players…
but, really, he already paid big money for Faine… he wont’ want grove…
not sure anyone would…
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:02 am
Dakota, even though Jerry Mac thinks Cable is the front runner I don’t think so. Davis wants to hire a Head Coach quickly, right? How come Cable hasn’t even been interviewed yet? He’s an in house candidate …
we’re doing nothing while other teams are interviewing playoff coaches. what else is new?
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:05 am
hey, Dakota, do you know who Al has interviewed for the HC position???
me neither…
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:05 am
Who cares where Grove ends up? Just like Brayton, Simms, Stu, Lafat and Walter…just get them out of here!
I’d like to see Fargas go to the Chiefs, Chargers or Broncos…take all the threat out of their running games!
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:06 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 7:55 am
LMN, so what does the starting o-line look like next year to you?
LT: Henderson
LG: Gallery
C : Morris
RG: Carlisle
RT: Green
what do we have for depth? McQuistan & Harris?
___________________________________________________
LT -> a new LT a real one, from FA..
LG ->Gallery, yup i like this kid a lot, especially after simms has gone and I think he does a nice job at LG..
C -> Morris should be a backup, I liked him alot earlier this season though, we should either draft one or get one in FA..
RG ->Carlisle, god hope he will stay here..
RT -> Henderson was really really good, but I still like him one year as a starter at RT, then in ‘10 at LT..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:07 am
Florida Pete Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:05 am
hey, Dakota, do you know who Al has interviewed for the HC position???
me neither…
___________________________________________
I don’t know, but I hope he at least glances at their resume this time.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:09 am
if Henderson is going to be the Left Tackle, put him there and leave him there…
if we’re going to get a new one, put him there and leave him there…
i still have an idea that we should put Gallery there and leave him there…
(now i know that’s gonna get some reaction)
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:09 am
LMN, even though you have reasons of why YOU THINK Fargas can or will or should be traded, Al Davis doesn’t operate that way. Ron Curry was a favorite too before he opened his mouth. That’s the only reason why he’ll be released this offseason. Davis wouldn’t care about the 3.5 million he’s due, just like he didn’t care about the 5+ million Gerard Warren was due last year. The only way Fargas isn’t starting next season is if he gets cut. The only way he gets cut is if Al Davis hires a Head Coach with a say in roster & coaching moves. We already know Cable loves Fargas, so it’d have to be a different coach. one that Al Davis trusts…
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:12 am
RSS..
very true.. Al runs his business a way I think it shouldn’t, very true, and he has the record to show us that he is the man ruin a great business..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:14 am
KoolKell why is it so important to be first you little moron?
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:14 am
RSS.. what are you advocating here, what YOU think or what you think AL WILL DO?..
the latter really doesn’t matter to me, because we all know how screwed up his decisions are..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:14 am
i think cable loves the idea of keeping his job…
i guarantee you he will put the best team (in his opinion) on the field every week…
now if that includes fargas… well it is what it is… not a bad thing in my opinion… but not the best thing…
even before we drafted Mcfadden i said we have Bush… and i said Bush should get the action…
but so long as we’re not throwing injured players out there ahead of healthy ones, i’m satisfied…
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:15 am
That would be good to get a LT & C in free agency, but I’m not sure:
-who is available
-how much they’d be asking
-if they’d consider playing in Oakland
-how much talent they got
-if they fit our scheme
I’m tired of getting guys like Harris, Green, Wand, Wade & Marten in free agency. Even Dylan Gandy & Junius Coston were here for a week. what a bunch of losers!
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:15 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:02 am
Dakota, even though Jerry Mac thinks Cable is the front runner I don’t think so. Davis wants to hire a Head Coach quickly, right? How come Cable hasn’t even been interviewed yet? He’s an in house candidate …
we’re doing nothing while other teams are interviewing playoff coaches. what else is new?
____________________________________________
Rockstar,
Who knows what Al is doing? He might have Cowher, Holmgren and Parcells all locked up for interviews, or he may be getting rejected by most of the candidates and that is why we don’t even have a rumor at this point. My money is on the latter.
You just never know with Al. He may wait until after the SB and then hire Cable and claim Cable was the guy all along, lol. Or he might hire another college ball boy, or maybe even a high school assistant coach this time! Or maybe the Madden Nation video game champion!
Nothing would surprise me at this point.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 am
RRS.
you were the one that talked about false loyalty, and keeping Fargas s false loyalty, from both Al and Cable..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:16 am
LMN:
Good morning LMN, and Happy New Years. Rockstar is right, unfortunately, Fargas has ZERO trade value. Every team out there would rather draft a rookie in the 4th or 5th round, pay him 70% less than Fargas, and get about the same production.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:17 am
what are you advocating here, what YOU think or what you think AL WILL DO?..
***
not best case scenario, but most likely scenario
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:18 am
Vegas…
Oh?, so why should we keep him, then?
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:18 am
No one will want Grove. He had the dreaded microfrcture surgery (same as Newberry), and has had numerous other injuries as well. Every coach knows you want a durable center because he calls the O-line scheme. Plus, back-up centers equal bad snaps. Grove would be a great backup for us, but no starter. He needs to take a cut in pay and stay.
We need at least 3 more players from the draft/FA on the O-line in 09. My suggestions (if Cable and ZBS is kept):
LT: Henderson; draftee/FA as backup
LG: Gallery; draftee/FA
C: stud FA or draftee; Grove/Wade (either is OK)
RG: Carlisle hopefully; draftee/FA
RT: McQ; Green/FA
And LMN, Morris is undersized and overmatched. He came in for a few series against the Bucs and got mauled. He’s pretty atheltic but weak. A gimpy Grove had to replace him since Wade was inactive.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 am
i think there’s enough room for Bush, Fargas and McFadden on this team…
with Bush being the No 1 back…
McFadden being on the field in any capacity…
Fargas being the backup…
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 am
RRS…
fair enough, then please state that, and state when its WHAT you think..
I really dont care about “most likely”..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 am
you were the one that talked about false loyalty, and keeping Fargas s false loyalty, from both Al and Cable..
***
Agreed.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:21 am
It just won’t come out. I have tried everything, fibre, pills, enema, help me please.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:22 am
LOL @ #530
you’re killing me man!
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:22 am
Bo..
yeah, you are right but Morris is the only ofour C that can play other spots, that makes him a great backup..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:24 am
Watched the Rose Bowl intensely yesterday, botched snap on punt at the end of game almost gave me a heart attack (USC -10.5). Mualagua wasn’t even the best LB on his team, and was a non-factor in the first half, while Kushing and the other samoan were dominating. Mays is your typical oversized big-hitting USC safety. Don’t see him as a FS long-term, he hammers people out there, but so did Darnell Bing. Mel Kiper says that Mualauga might end up being the third LB taken, behind Spikes and Curry from Wake Forrest.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:24 am
its late afternoon here, and i like a snack around this time a day, I assume you guys could use one as well..
this is for you =)
http://ekstrabladet.tv/flash/article1068328.ece
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:25 am
Fargas has zero value to anyone but the Raiders, but let me state the obvious: He is an ideal backup for either McFadden or Bush. He wont whine about not starting and will play his arse off without making mistakes. He should not start because he cant catch or break the long ones.
Keep him but don’t start him. I bet he is also a great influence on the younger guys too.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:27 am
with Bush being the No 1 back…
————————————-
McFadden isn’t getting paid all that money to sit on the bench.. Our RB rotation this year was like the Vikings when they drafted Peterson. The veteran (taylor) started with the rookie (peterson) coming in and getting the most yardage.. Ours would have been that way this year except for all the injuries.. Next year McFadden will be the clear cut starter with bush or fargas backing him up.. Both will have to be kept because we don’t know if mcfadden can hold up for 16 games yet..
And, wasn’t Bush’s numbers in the TB game not good until he broke the long run? Wasn’t he at like 18 carries for 57 yards (or something like that) at one point?
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:28 am
#525:
Because you need 3 RB’s in todays NFL. How many weeks were all 3 healthy this year? If Fargas is your third-best RB and a quality guy in the locker room, than you are in a good place at the RB position. Keep him until his contract expires, and barring any injuries to D-Mac or Bush, continually reduce his role on the field.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:29 am
I have another thought about the O-line… will the Donks keep the ZBS with their next coach? We should be poaching their best guys if we can like we did with Carlisle (fat chance with Clady, of course). Carlisle was our best FA O-line signee in many a year.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:29 am
Vegas..
Nooo… say it aint so.. i haven’t watched any sports for DAYS now, and I missed the rose bowl, dammit! people should yell/tell that here =)
Tex tech vs Ole Miss, is that any good?
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:29 am
La Milicia Negra Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:22 am
Bo..
yeah, you are right but Morris is the only ofour C that can play other spots, that makes him a great backup..
_______________________________________
LMN,
We have lots of great backups on the Raiders, too bad most of them are starting and Fargas is the prime example! RT, C, OLB, FS are some of the other backups we have starting, lol.
Time to bring in some starters!
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:31 am
Sac..
he stated, that McFAdden should e in their in any capacity..
I still think over 2MM per year is much for a backup..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:32 am
LMN,
It should be all-right, think Ole Miss will pull a minor upset. Want to see Crabtree play again, he might be our new toy next year.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:32 am
StoolKell Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:21 am
It just won’t come out. I have tried everything, fibre, pills, enema, help me please.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
try a Jim Beam enema…
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:34 am
Fargas’ contract isn’t so bad when you consider that Bush isn’t making a whole lot(in NFL circles), so between the two main back-ups you get youth and experience, for a relatively small price-tag.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:34 am
Dakota,
Are you quoting Freddy B at us? Too many backups? I think we all know Fred was right, especially at the HC and DC positions.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:34 am
Dakota..
Im not talking about that, Im talking about Morris’ abilities to play other spots, wade, grove and even last years C (the guy that went to SD) couldn’t play anything else than C..
Keep morris means you free up 2 spots for other players.. just like the reason why they kept Brayton.. good enough to be backup, and plays several spots, thats the most you can ask of a backup..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:36 am
vegas..
still for a player as you ay nobody wants and if we just could draft one that could the same, then are 2+ very much.. especially when you have in mind we will be in cap trouble this year, with yet another high draft pick that really cant deliver in the first year..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:37 am
Of the starters against Tampa, I think only Henderson and Gallery are definite keepers. Harris and Green aren’t good enough to be retained – especially with bonuses due. Grove and Carlisle can both void the last years of their contract – and will both test the FA market. I also doubt that Wade will be retained.
That leaves us with Henderson, Gallery, Morris, Marten, Wilson and McQuistan. Marten has talent and is worth developing. McQuistan provides cover at OG. Morris can cover C and OG.
I still think we need to add three more Olinemen. The current FA lists look very poor, especially with the top FAs likely to be franchised or resigned. I expect Oher and Andre Smith to have gone but, at No7 we still might get a shot at drafting Eugene Monroe. He would challenge Henderson for the start at LT or slide over to RT. He isn’t quite the finished article but, I think Monroe would be too good to pass.
If we do pass on Monroe, we could still go for someone like Phil Loadholt, Jason Smith or Russell Okung at No39. All three would be an upgrade on Green. At No71, we still might have a shot at Jamon Meredith, Alex Boone or Fenuki Tupou but, all OTs are moving up the board and I would be nervous about waiting for the 3rd round.
There are OT projects in the later rounds (Andrew Hartline – Central Michigan, Scott Burley – Maryland, Robert Brewster – Ball State) but, none who could push to start in 2009.
The depth at OG looks better this year. Duke Robinson will go in the first but, we could get JR’s old protector, Herman Johnson at No39. A draft of Monroe and Johnson would seriously upgrade the right side of our Oline – and is worth serious consideration.
Other OGs who may suit our system include Ray Feinga (BYU), Kraig Urbik (Wisconsin) and Paul Fanaika (Arizona State). A 4th round investment on one of these wouldn’t be a dumb move.
At Center, Alex Mack will be gone late first round but, Jonathan Luigs who played with DMC at Arkansas, should be available at No39 – and would be a probable upgrade on Grove and Morris. I also like Max Unger (Oregon) and Eric Wood (Louisville) as 4th round options.
All-in-all, given the probable weakness of the FA market, I think we need to invest at least two of our first four draft picks on Olinemen.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:39 am
i’m a repostin’
Florida Pete Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:01 am
After some seriously deep thought, a call to my psychic, and listening to my 4 year old son explain the fundamentals of life to me…
I have arrived at my 1st pick of the 2009 draft. We pick 7th, so it’s not so much as picking for need as picking for need AND getting the best guy available…
So…
If Michael Oher (LT, Miss) is available, we take him…
If Oher is not available, we take Eugene Monroe (LT, Virginia)…
If neither of the above are available, we take Michael Crabtree (WR, Texas Tech)…
If all the above are not available, AND we lose Nambdi, we take Malcolm Jenkins (CB, Ohio State)… what… you’re kidding me… okay… THE Ohio State…
If we don’t lose Nambdi, and Oher, Monroe, and Crabtree are gone, then we take Taylor Mays (S, USC)
That’s it… them’s my ideas…
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:39 am
# vegas raider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:32 am
LMN,
It should be all-right, think Ole Miss will pull a minor upset. Want to see Crabtree play again, he might be our new toy next year.
___________________________________________________
great, hope i can tune up for that later today then =)
im in sports hunger! =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:41 am
LMN, Grove can play guard too. McQuistan can play guard or tackle, as can Gallery.
I’d rather have players that play well in one spot than guys who are average or bad at multiple spots (like fred wakefield)
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:44 am
Anyone see that Robbie Madison jump in Vegas on New Year’s Eve?
Crazy schit.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:44 am
RRS..
that is sadly not a luxury we can afford :/
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:44 am
I think we need to invest at least two of our first four draft picks on Olinemen.
***
me too Scottish. nice post!
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:46 am
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft09/columns/story?columnist=mcshay_todd&id=3700830
Pete, this Mcshay guy is usually pretty good and has Mays going 31st. Can’t see us taking him at 7th.
If I am correct, big IF sometimes, Monroe is the only senior among the top lineman projected. He might be more game-ready week 1 next year.
Watch Mt. Cody tonight for Alabama, he will dominate as much as a DT can. He would instantly help the run D, in week 1. I don’t want any-more “projects”
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:46 am
RRS…
most tackles can play guard and the other way around, its very often that a C only can play C..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:47 am
Florida Pete Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 5:23 am
Peter’s Picks for 2009
introducing our No 1 pick of the 2009 draft:
uh, that is if he declares:
my understanding is that young Mr Cody intends to play another year at Alabama… fine !!! we take him next year…
i will put up a list of possible 1st round replacements later today… something else… i watched Maualuga play yesterday… uh… he seems slow to react… i’m not sure he won’t have problems at the pro level… now please allow me to take cover before the vegetables are launched…
Defensive Tackle
Terrence Cody, Alabama
Height: 6-5. Weight: 365.
if drafted i would have him outfitted with surgically implanted extra-skeletal knees…
introducing our 2nd round pick…
he starts day one:
Defensive Tackle
B.J. Raji, Boston College
Height: 6-1. Weight: 325.
introducing our 3rd round selection:
Offensive Lineman
Augustus Parrish, Kent State
Height: 6-6. Weight: 308.
Could be RT or Guard…
or a truly excellent blocking dummy…
schit, it’s all a crap shoot…
Here is our 4th round selection…
our brand spanking new middle linebacker:
Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina
Height: 6-2. Weight: 267.
Here’s our 5th round draft choice…
Nobody (we didn’t want anybody in this round anyway…)
our round six draft choice will be:
Defensive End (and Burgess’ replacement)
Derek Walker, Illinois
Height: 6-4. Weight: 272.
this guy will kick ass…
i think.
Our 7th round selection will be:
Our future starting center
Dallas Reynolds, BYU
Height: 6-5. Weight: 328.
Plays backup 1st year, starts the second…
Yeah, baby, that’s raiderin’…
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:48 am
What is going to happen to Michael Huff? He probably wouldn’t fetch more than a 6th round pick and who wants his salary anyhow?
I’d like to see Huff given another chance at FS under a defensive coordinator that doesn’t have his head stuck up his ass before getting rid of him.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:49 am
I hope, that means i know it wont happen, but i still hope we will trade down or out of the 1st round!
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:49 am
keep huff, let him get some time at CB..
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:54 am
Huff was excellent in years past at covering opposing tight ends…
we should keep him… if only for that…
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:54 am
Dakota,
I would think Huff would be a fine candidate for a re-structuring this off-season. I would like to see him get another chance, probably will never live up to his draft billing, put he is a solid tackler and looked great on special teams at the end of the year.
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:56 am
Mr McShay does not have the same repect for Mr Mays that i do…
perhaps we should inform Mr Mays ???
hmmmm ???
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:56 am
and Huff saved us some TD’s in some of the games we won.. have to give him that
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:01 am
This year yet again, i had very few games to download for my video library. :/ cant wait for a season where i need more space lol
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:03 am
Have the raiders started to look for a coach, or is Al still on holiday break? Maybe get started Jan 5th?
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:04 am
Dakota Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 8:48 am
What is going to happen to Michael Huff? He probably wouldn’t fetch more than a 6th round pick and who wants his salary anyhow?
I’d like to see Huff given another chance at FS under a defensive coordinator that doesn’t have his head stuck up his ass before getting rid of him.
————————————————–
Agreed. I think he just needs a D coord who runs more than a cover 0. As many different players as we’ve had over the years yet our D still stunk, kinda leads you to believe maybe its the scheme.. Huff had loads of talent coming out of texas and still has good cover skills. I’d like to try him at CB again and see if he can help make the post Nnamdi transition a little easier..
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:05 am
The problem with the USC guys, is that the past “can’t miss” guys never panned out. They play on a team with such superior talent and depth, that when they come into the league they are in for a shock. Leinart, Bush, Mike Williams, Byrd (TE), Bing, and plenty of others haven’t lived up to there billing. The best recent USC draftees were probably Lendale White, Steve Smith and Sam Baker, guys with nowhere near the fanfare as the others.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:06 am
Keep Huff? For what, and why? As waterboy, jock cleaner, towel boy. DUDE FUKKIN SUCKS.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:08 am
Have the raiders started to look for a coach, or is Al still on holiday break? Maybe get started Jan 5th?
***
we probably won’t have a Head Coach until March unless Davis moves quickly to annoint Cable or Fassel …
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:09 am
we probably won’t have a Head Coach until March unless Davis moves quickly to annoint Cable or Fassel
————————————————-
We probably won’t have a coach until after the draft so no one will argue with Al about who he wants to pick..
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:10 am
You have to wonder what a decent DC may have given this team over the past 5 seasons, outside of just a good defensive game plan. I am talking about player development and talent evaluation.
Maybe we avoid the Huff and Washington draft selections? Or maybe we don’t back the truck up and dump a ton of money on Tommy Kelly? Or maybe some of the players that were busts wouldn’t have been? Like Stu and Brayton and Washington and Huff?
Ryan has been an abomination.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 am
Agreed, Ryan is probably the issue with Huff, but Huff shouldn’t have been take as the number 7 anyway. He is exactly the type of “fat” we need to trim off this team. Eugene and Baker are better prospects as Huff, and probably make less than Huff COMBINED. Drop his azz. Why hang on to him, for what?
Speaking of hanging on, I have a turtle head poking out, oh gosh, hope I just didn’t drop a rose bud………
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 am
Gettin rid of Rob Ryan is addition by subtraction, much like getting rid of Meangelo.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 am
Manning won NFL MVP.
Can’t argue much with that.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:19 am
Stu was simply not a good pick for us… really he was a white guy with speed… but he should have been looked at as a CB… and we didn’t need one at that time…
Brayton was a tweener and those guys almost always have difficulties… but he should have been tried at ILB and left there… sink or swim…
Bing is a huge puzzle for me… he was turned into a project for linebacker instead of used as a safety…
personally, i think projects are for teams that already have everything they need…
we don’t have time for projects…
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:20 am
Pete,
Tom Cable is a project isn’t he?
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:20 am
MeAngelo Small was probably the biggest “farse” of a player we have EVER had, next to Patsy Bates and Larry Brown.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:21 am
Dakota Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 am
Manning won NFL MVP.
Can’t argue much with that.
——————————————————-
Is it just me, or are the Mannings the ugliest, homliest, most inbred backwoods lookin dudes in the NFL?
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:23 am
Dakota Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:20 am
Pete,
Tom Cable is a project isn’t he?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tom Cable will go down in history as the greatest head coach of all time…
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
now… go ahead and clean up that coffee you spilled…
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:23 am
The Raiders will interview.. who know’s, another retread, or someone very very young and inexperienced. Meanwhile, the rival broncos are:
“In addition to McDaniels, Spagnuolo and Morris, other coaches whom Denver is expected to consider pursuing include Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops and Dallas offensive coordinator Jason Garrett”
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3804434
the problem remains with Al Davis, the Owner. First team with 6 straight years of 11-losses
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:26 am
lol
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:27 am
Lucky Raider Chris Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:23 am
The Raiders will interview.. who know’s, another retread, or someone very very young and inexperienced. Meanwhile, the rival broncos are:
“In addition to McDaniels, Spagnuolo and Morris, other coaches whom Denver is expected to consider pursuing include Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops and Dallas offensive coordinator Jason Garrett”
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3804434
the problem remains with Al Davis, the Owner. First team with 6 straight years of 11-losses
——————————————————-
STFU man. Who give a flying shannarats ass who the donkey’s are interviewing.
Also the FIRST wild card team to EVER win a Super-Bowl.
Go away hater.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:30 am
Here we go again…………………
Faider Coaches, should have been let go by now !
Not…………………….
Al Bundy Davis, said to the Press “a replacement will be made very fast”.
Not……………………………..
Cable and Ryan, have both said they have made progress.
Not………….(check out Stats Dot Com)
One of The Greatest Raiders of All Time is done calling the 15 names on his feeler list of prospective coaches, supplied by Al Bundy via Bundys front office
Here is a break-down of the returned calls form “Bundys Feeler List”
Out of a total of 15 names…………..
7 – never return his calls after several attempts. 2 were already hired “after” getting numerous calls. Plus a few Game Balls with Bundys signature on the them from The Greatest
2 – referred The Greatest to a few High School Coaches.
(I’m not kidding this did happen)
3 – Called back and said “no thank-you”
1 – Called back and said he wants complete control of the team, “all coaches must go”. Then he went on to say to The Greatest, “with those priority’s, I guess I will never hear from Davis”
2 – Are in the process of being interviewed by other teams their agents said to the Greatest. Then when on to say they have no interest in the Raiders.
Just sell Baby………………and so it is !!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:34 am
I rather see the Donkeys land McDaniels than Kiffin, thats for sure!
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:36 am
I hope the Donkeys get Bob Stoops and he fails as miserably as the other college-to-pro coaches.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:38 am
# vegas raider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:36 am
I hope the Donkeys get Bob Stoops and he fails as miserably as the other college-to-pro coaches.
________________________________________________
+1, lol =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:41 am
LMFAO at post 591, that was classic whoever posted it. LOL.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:41 am
why would you make post such thing?
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:43 am
whoooops, my last post was bad!
just remove the make =)
why would you post, such a thing? clearly disturbed..
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:44 am
LMN
I think 591 was in response to 584. What Europeans don’t have a sense of humor?
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:45 am
new post please. screw harbaugh, get a top coach or keep cable. in Al i dont trust. ol’ terd
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:46 am
Glutten for Punishment Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:45 am
new post please. screw harbaugh, get a top coach or keep cable. in Al i dont trust. ol’ terd
——————————————————-
Top coach?
Like who?
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:49 am
The only relevance the Donkey’s coachnig search has for us is if they drop the ZBS…THUS GIVING US SEVERAL OLINE OPTIONS, which we need desperately.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:50 am
Maybe Ron Jeremy? He has experience.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:53 am
The days of the Rat are over. Long since have been the days when he was successful. Since he had a QB with huge teeth, and a paper running back. He has never been the same since the teeth and the paper back left the stable. He will fade into the sunset wherever he goes next, and he will be DRASTICALLY EXPOSED AS AN AVERAGE COACH AT BEST.
And I will sit back and laugh.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:54 am
Florida Pete… like your selections, could swap the 1st or 2nd pick for a high OT though. Either way, the Raiders need to keep their focus on building dominate lines, the meat and potatoes of the game and leave the so called skill positions for next year. Until then you get my vote for GM.
January 2nd, 2009 at 9:56 am
What are the chances Al is even “considering” or entertaining the thought of hiring The Rat?
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:01 am
Hey, hire Shanarat and Matt Millen…at least we could claim we had the three worst GMs in the NFL working together!
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:01 am
It would be great if the Ryan bros. were hired by the Jets, and they tried to pull a Parent Trap prank on the team. They can shave Rob down, and do a twin switch-a-roo. The problem is, it wouldn’t work because Rex looks like a human and Rob looks like a whale.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:03 am
Top coach. oh i dont know, maybe like a top assistant in the league or someone proven or cowher or???? someone that Al doesnt HAVE to settle for like the last couple coaches.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:05 am
REPOST DUE TO BOGUS MODERATOR
Shannahan already got an offer from Al… to clean his white patent leather loafers. They’re pretty grungy now that Freddy B is gone.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 am
The only relevance the Donkey’s coachnig search has for us is if they drop the ZBS…THUS GIVING US SEVERAL OLINE OPTIONS, which we need desperately.
***
Casey Wiegmann
Tyler Polumbus
Pat Murray
Kory Lichtensteiger
Chris Kuper
Ben Hamilton
Clady & Harris are a good young pair of tackles. they’ll stick. what players of the above mentioned excites you?
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 am
Bo,
I think Shanarat would be great at cleaning Al’s sh0es…and with Tob Cable flossing Al’s teeth and Rob Ryan sucking the yellow and brown stains out of Al’s underwear, maybe Al will be in prime shape to show up to the combine this year?
WE WILL WIN!
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 am
Donkos are reaching out to Bob Stoops.
Raiders are reaching out to [Censored], [Censored], and [Censored].
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 am
God, I didn’t realize the Donks have only won one playoff game since Elway left. Pretty lame, Mike!
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:12 am
http://nwe.scout.com/2/826649.html
Commish on the Raiders:
R. Warfield, Greenfield, Ohio: While in Oakland this year, Did you have an extended talk with Mr. Davis, what were your impressions of him? Do you believe the Oakland Raiders franchise will turn things around in the near future?
“I did have an opportunity to visit the Raiders and Al Davis. My impression is Al Davis is as committed to winning as he ever was. He is passionate about the Raiders and wanting to get them back to their winning ways.”
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:14 am
In other words, no help for you bwahahahahahaha. Thanks a bunch commish. He’s too busy handing out fines.
————————-
Dakota Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:12 am
http://nwe.scout.com/2/826649.html
Commish on the Raiders:
R. Warfield, Greenfield, Ohio: While in Oakland this year, Did you have an extended talk with Mr. Davis, what were your impressions of him? Do you believe the Oakland Raiders franchise will turn things around in the near future?
“I did have an opportunity to visit the Raiders and Al Davis. My impression is Al Davis is as committed to winning as he ever was. He is passionate about the Raiders and wanting to get them back to their winning ways.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:15 am
I think Al Davis will make a lowball offer to Jeff Fisher & Tom Coughlin to be the next Head Coach of the Oakland Raiders. Davis isn’t returning the calls of Pioli or Parcells though for GM. He’s got that under control …
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:17 am
80 year olds shouldn’t even be driving. We got one running an entire NFL franchise!
this explains a lot, doesn’t it?
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:18 am
Isn’t that tampering Rockstar, giving an offer to a coach currently under contract? We could lose draft picks for that
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:19 am
Rockstar…but he was great at age 55!
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:21 am
vegas: yes, i was just making the most crazy statement I could think of…
hey, it makes as much sense as Shanahan, Schottenheimer or Cowher ever working for Al Davis in 2009. Right?
never happen guys
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:23 am
How about Bob Ladoceour of the DLS Spartans? It’s the closest Al will get to hiring a “winning” football coach (if Ladoceour accepts the job). LOL!!!!
Okay enough with the cynicism, lets think about the draft, What do you guys think of Michael Crabtree? You know, he is the 6′3″ 214LB WR from Texas Tech who happens to have, as it stands today (1/2/09 at 10:30a.m., PST) 1135 yards, 93 catches, 18 TDs and a, 12.2 avg.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:26 am
owners should be out playing golf or shuffleboard. looking into investments. checking into stadiums in our case as well. meeting with the gm, vp, pres and all other execs. make sure the org runs smoothly and properly. check on the cap.
things of that nature…
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:28 am
crap…
somebody beat to mentioning that Shanahan has only won one post season game in 10 years…
yeah…
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:28 am
Isn’t Texas Tech one of those gimmicky offenses? I am always leery of players from college teams that use smoke and mirrors.
I haven’t seen Crabtree and TT play, can anyone state that Crabtree is a good route runner and can separate from CBs or does he just use WR screens and crossing patterns to get open?
Or am I completely off base and TT runs a pro-style offense?
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:33 am
dakota…
the head coach at texas tech had been warned in the past about too much damned smoke and too many mirrors…
it was first noticed when they were accused of having too many men on the field…
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:33 am
Dakota:
They run a run and shoot style offense. I forgot about that, it’s similar to what June Jones ran in Hawaii. But the critics have Crabtree as the number one receiver in the nation. Has to be something to him right?
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:35 am
honestly i don’t care how fast a guy runs…
so long as he runs an honest route…
and catches what’s thrown at him…
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 am
Re: 604
Rockstar,
If we keep the ZBS, I want Carlisle back and would look at any of your aforementioned Bronco lineman, for depth at the very least. Wiegman in particular, even though he is a bit light at 285 and pretty old too. And ask Carlisle, if we keep him. Hes a heady veteran, and I would value his opinion of the Donks line.
I would also look at Fred Weary of the Texans. I like Weary becuase he was tasered by the Houston fuzz in 06…reminds me of Robbins, lol. Jordan Black is another good tackle to consider, and was just signed by Jacksonville I think.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 am
I agree with pretty much everything this guy says about the Raiders, especially the part about hiring a QB guru as HC:
http://myespn.go.com/blogs/nflnation?tag=afc%20team%20evaluations
Oakland Raiders (5-11)
In the end, it was just another disappointing Oakland Raiders season. But this one stood out because expectations were high in Oakland. The Raiders were committed to changing their losing ways. Oakland was the busiest team in the offseason adding veterans. Oakland spent more than $255 million in contracts and bonuses in 2008. In the end, though, the spending didn’t change the culture of losing in Oakland. The Raiders became the first team in NFL history to lose at least 11 games for six straight seasons. Grade: D
Biggest surprise: The DeAngelo Hall saga was strange even by Raiders’ standards. In one of the craziest developments of the season, Oakland cut Hall after eight games. Hall was signed to a huge contract after he was acquired from Atlanta for second- and fifth-round picks. But the cornerback was not very good for Oakland and the Raiders abruptly cut him. In the end, Oakland surrendered two draft choices and $8 million for eight games of service from Hall.
Biggest disappointment: Receiver Javon Walker. He was signed to a six-year, $55 million contract in the offseason. The huge contract caused shockwaves around the league. Many league insiders thought Walker would have to sign a modest one-year contract to prove that he was healthy. Walker was cut from Denver in February after an injury plagued 2007 season. Walker’s health issues in Oakland continued. He was often criticized by coach Lane Kiffin, who was fired after four games and Walker was talked out of retirement by Oakland owner Al Davis during camp. Walker’s tumultuous first season in Oakland ended after 15 catches and a season-ending ankle surgery. It wouldn’t be a surprise if Walker is cut in the offseason.
Biggest need: The Raiders have many needs, particularly on the offensive line. But it also needs a reliable receiver. The Raiders’ receiver play was among the league’s worst in terms of production. Oakland has a good running game, but young quarterback JaMarcus Russell needs a go-to receiver. Perhaps Oakland could try to get Texas Tech’s Michael Crabtree in the draft or trade for one such as Chad Johnson or Anquan Boldin in the offseason. However it is addressed, Oakland needs to find a receiver in 2009.
Hire a quarterback guru: The Raiders are looking for a head coach again. Interim coach Tom Cable will likely be considered, but the team is also looking at other coaches. The new coach needs to be a quarterback expert. Russell, who will be entering his third season, needs someone with expertise in that area. He hasn’t been getting it in Oakland. He needs his head coach to know quarterbacks.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 am
i’m going home…
trench people… that’s what we need…
if we spent every single draft choice on trench people, i would say we had an excellent chance of post-season play next year…
trench people…
trench people…
TRENCH PEOPLE !!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 am
I am always leery of players from college teams that use smoke and mirrors.
***
we got McFadden. Crabtree could be next …
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:41 am
Rockstar,
The wild hog was not Arkansas’ primary offense.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:48 am
Dakota,
Seen him play a few times, excellent hands, great size (plays bigger than his size) and good after the catch. Strikes me as a guy with good football IQ, seems to know where the sticks always are and makes effort to block. They do run a lot of WR screens, but not as much to him as the other players. He doesn’t seem to have exceptional speed, he isn’t a HS track star or anything, and might be more of a possession receiver than a deep-ball threat type of guy. Let’s watch over the next few hours and see if he excels against a SEC D instead of these weak Big 12 D’s.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 am
The new coach needs to be a quarterback expert. Russell, who will be entering his third season, needs someone with expertise in that area. He hasn’t been getting it in Oakland. He needs his head coach to know quarterbacks.
****
hmmm… Jim Harbaugh, Hue Jackson, Jim Fassel & Kevin Gilbride all fit the bill. Even Paul Hackett (i hope not)
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 am
Crabtree reminds me of Boldin
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 am
We need to draft good trench people remeber everybody said gallery was a cant miss, no playing guard is not the reason we drafted gallery with no 2 overall pick. If we take crabtree how many years for him to develop and what if he is a system guy, we have 0 game changers on d needs help.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:58 am
NMF: Gallery was 5 years ago. How many years do you go without drafting a tackle, when it’s clearly your biggest need? Have you ever thought that maybe changes in coaching, schemes and positions had something to do with Gallery’s struggles at tackle? Cable is the only stability he’s known. 2 years in a row of the same thing.
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:59 am
If we dont go Oline and dline with our first 3 pick Im gonna be very angry.. not shocked just angry
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:59 am
Couldn’t agree more. His forty time will be lower than people will want, and he will be passed up for it, and in the end may be the best pick of the draft.
——————-
RaiderRockstar Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 am
Crabtree reminds me of Boldin
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:59 am
Last season (2007) as a freshman, Crabtree put up 1962 yds, 22 tds and 134 catches with a 14.6 avg. This season it was 1132 yds on 93 catches. These are numbers that cannot be ignored.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:11 am
yup…
everybody did say Gallery was a can’t miss prospect…
and that’s why i get angry when people fault Davis for taking him…
but Norv Turner decided that right tackle is where he should play… because we had such an amazing future with Barry Sims…
two years later Shell decided left tackle is correct but only if you do well in pit drills…
Cable put Gallery at left guard… something about zeebs…
really, how we managed to screw this up so badly is amazing to me…
in my not so humble opinion… you draft a guy in the 1st round to play a position… that is where he belongs… as a starter or as a backup…
but doing anything else automatically turns the choice into a “project”… you don’t want a project will a first round pick…
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:17 am
ok Jerry wheres the fix?
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:20 am
For those of you near a TV, there are a couple of very good left tackle prospects in the Cotton Bowl that is on right now. Michael Oher is probably going to go Top 10 and the Texas Tech LT is pretty good as well. And let’s not forget Crabtree plays for Tech.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:22 am
did Jerry take a 4 day weekend?
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
Tech and the Big 12 are about to get exposed in the next week. Ohio State hangs with Texas, Florida throttles Oklahoma, and Tech loses to Ole Miss. You heard it hear first
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
OG!! Happy New Year! I watched the Rose Bowl yesterday, and I’m not sure Rey Meluga (can’t spell his last name) is the real deal. I know he’s an NFL’er but not the next Ray Lewis.
I’m thinking more and more go LT, best available and this year has a great LT class.
And maybe grab Bushings, the OLB from USC in the 2nd round…
What do y’all think?
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:28 am
RRS I think so Jerry deserves a break but how hard is it to log on and post us a new fix! Sheeze
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:28 am
watching the cotton bowl;its true I have never seen so many senior&junior O-linemen.It’s gonna be a very deep draft 4 o-line
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:29 am
I’m thinking game breaking receiver in this years draft. The problem is, there are so many glaring holes on this team that, no one knows exactly where to start. OL, DB, LB, WR, who in world knows? I have been hollering receiver since last season.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:29 am
Happy New Year 408 =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:30 am
408RAIDER(GO SHARKS) Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:28 am
RRS I think so Jerry deserves a break but how hard is it to log on and post us a new fix! Sheeze
——————————————————-
Jerry deserves a break? From what, eating?
Jerry’s articles suck. No real questions answered, speculation abound, and he never really addresses any real topics.
Stop lickin his balls just because you are on his blog.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:30 am
Who is a better prospect for the Raiders at Tackle:
1) Andre Smith
2) Mike Oher
3) Eugene Monroe
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:32 am
Sorry Drubin,
No reciever before the 3rd round
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:33 am
Roch Romanson Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:30 am
Who is a better prospect for the Raiders at Tackle:
1) Andre Smith
2) Mike Oher
3) Eugene Monroe
——————————————————-
2) Mike Oher
Only because the name “Andre Smith” is to close to “Anthony Smith”.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:35 am
Ghost of Rat, help me out today, as I’m a little slow, who is Anthony Smith??
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:36 am
#639
Rey looked like the third best LB on his own team yesterday. Rey wasn’t shedding any blockers. Cushing (not Bushing) would be a great pick in the second-round, as long as he quits the steroids, rumors that have been swirling around him for 2 years now.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:37 am
Only because the name “Andre Smith” is to close to “Anthony Smith”.
***
LOL. Is there a DT named Chester worth looking at?
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:38 am
Post 645, Probably Andre Smith, but he may not be there at the 7th pick. After that Eugene Monroe would be the way to go if we want a tackle.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:39 am
RR, Happy New Year to you and yours!! Personally I absolutely LOVE Andre Smith. Not only is he a fantastic blocker, but he plays with such a MEAN STREAK you wouldn’t believe it. It’s something that is sorely missing around here! I was really hoping he was going to play, just so all you guys can see what a Marquee LT looks like.
Watch Oher right now tho. Notice how athletic this guy is!! Watch his foot work. This guy Oher looks like he could win Dancing With The Stars and he weighs 350 lbs!!!
Actually the guy I really like in addition to the LT’s in this Cottom Bowl game is watch number 98 Peria Jerry. I think this guy is a 2nd team All American and lst team All SEC. Maybe 2nd TEam All SEC. This guy Peria Jerry is a great player!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:39 am
Thanks Vegas, Ha, Cushing, anyway he looked great yesterday where as Rey was not the world beater as advertised, even the kid on Penn playing LB looked good.
So which way do you think we go in the 1st round? And who would be best case scenerio for you?
HNY
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:39 am
[...] Jerry McDonald takes issue with hiring Jim Harbaugh to be the Raiders next head coach – Inside the Oakland Raiders [...]
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:40 am
This just in: As fast as NFL teams let coaches go at the end of the season, they were just as fast in signing. Within hours of one another the Jets signed Mike Shanahan formerly of the Denver Broncos. The Cleveland Browns hired Rex Ryan a few minutes later. Soon to follow the Broncos hired Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh. Owner Pat Bowlen said that with the success they had with a certain Stanford QB they couldn’t pass up a Stanford coach. This move prompted Oakland owner Al Davis to hire Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops to be his next head coach. Davis also vowed to make sure that his first pick in the 2009 draft will be Beanie Wells from THE Ohio State Buckeyes. Stay tuned for further updates.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:40 am
Roch Romanson Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:35 am
Ghost of Rat, help me out today, as I’m a little slow, who is Anthony Smith??
——————————————————-
If you don’t know, don’t worry about it, thats a good thing you don’t know.
If you want to know, look it up, because I refuse from saying his name ever again.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:40 am
Since MR hasn’t been here for awhile, I am going to post as him, as a knowledgable football fan. this way, he doesn’t have to come back in here railing against the Raiders!
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:41 am
Happy New Year 4eva! 09′ will be better than 08′ it has to be!
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:45 am
Yeah, I am disappopinted he’s not playing either, I`ve been reading the hype but wanted to see for myself.
And thanks for the HNY,anyway, if you look at the team right now, NO QUESTION, we go LT in the first, grab one of the many talented that are up there, and at 7 we most likely won`t break the bank on him, you`ve got to remember how much money is out there for the Raiders right now, which wouldn`t surprise me to even see us trade 7 to drop and get more picks just because cash is tight.
But what about 2nd RD, i think LB, but then best available becomes a factor, which still makes me think LB, anyway as I`ve said what does everyone think.
and again NO RECIEVER UNTIL AT LEAST THE 3RD if at all.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:45 am
you guys do know Micheal Oher’s story dont ya???
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:47 am
4evaRaider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:45 am
you guys do know Micheal Oher’s story dont ya???
——————————————————-
No.
But, I am sure you are in the process of telling us. So go ahead and hit “Submit Comment” when ready.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:48 am
Nice breakdown “MR”. Oher does have a very interesting story. However I would rather have a guy with a boring story that knocks peoples heads off.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:51 am
NFL Insider:
I think it’ll shake down more like this -
Browns – Rick Ferentz
Broncos – Josh McDaniels
Jets – Mike Shanahan
Raiders – Tom Cable
Rams – Steve Spagnuolo
I don’t see Jim Fassel or Jim Harbaugh coaching in the NFL in 2009 unless Fassel takes on an asst coaching job like QB coach or OC…
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:51 am
Oakglenn’s Revenge Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:48 am
Nice breakdown “MR”. Oher does have a very interesting story. However I would rather have a guy with a boring story that knocks peoples heads off.
——————————————————-
MR has a very SAD story. You don’t want to here it. His life is very very sad.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:51 am
408 If we keep Cable and draft “Responsibly” we gonna be the shizzz-it 4 years 2 come imo =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:51 am
Roch,
I think, if he is available, we take the Cody kid from Alabama. He would help our run D instantly, and that was easily our biggest weakness throughout the years. Our O-line at the end of the year was one of our STRENGTHS so don’t understand the need to draft one so early. Our biggest issue on the O-line is center and depth, stuff you can shore up in the 3rd and 4th rounds.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:57 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 10:26 am
owners should be out playing golf or shuffleboard. looking into investments. checking into stadiums in our case as well. meeting with the gm, vp, pres and all other execs. make sure the org runs smoothly and properly. check on the cap.
things of that nature…
^Exactly and we are stuck with an old owner with a stubborn ego problem who doesn’t think about what the fans want and what the organization needs to do to improve. It’s all about the old man and what he wants.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:58 am
Vegas, the consensus is our offensive tackles need serious upgrading. And they do. Mario Henderson played fairly well but as I was posting in here yesterday, basically every playoff and Super Bowl team of the last 10 years has a marquee LT. And these guys do not become available in free agency. Here is our opportunity to grab one. My idea would be take a LT overall #7, a defensive lineman like Cody or Tyson Jackson early in the 2nd round, and then a center in the 3rd. Our offensive line would go from being one of the worst in the NFL to one of the best. Which would make us very formidable.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:59 am
Replying to Roch Romanson:
I don’t think we need a LT, we all know Kwamie Harris sucks but you can’t deny that Mario Henderson has stepped up huge in the LT position. I say we keep our O-Line how it is and work with it. Our offensive line is decent.
Now with the number 7 pick overall i would pick between Taylor Mays or Rey Mauluga.
Second Round we still need to beef up our defense so i say we take DT Fili Moala.
Now for the third round i say we go with a WR (assuming Namndi stays with the Raiders) only if there is still a good prospect on the board like Louis Murphy from Florida. He is a deep threat and has potential to be a nice WR in the NFL.
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:59 am
Thanks Gohst:In short;Oher was 13 or so when he was home-less walkin down the road on a cold day with no coat.The Touhy family felt sorry 4 him.He couldnt read or write.Touhy family was well-off and very athletic,dad a coach and son&daughter heavily involved in sports.Touhy’s gained custudy of Oher leagally.Sent him 2 Ole’Miss and here we are.I read about Oher about 3 or 4 years ago in Readers Digest at doctors office =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:01 pm
I’m scouting Oher right now….
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Can somebody pass me a Bacardi Coke, with no fruit, Please?
FREE DIRTY!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Darkknight, while you are doing that, check out the TT LT and Peria Jerry the DT from Ole Miss. All of them are very good players.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:03 pm
The Ghost of Mike Shannahan’s Past
quit trolling already… Please..thank you…
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:03 pm
#668:
Funny, but 4 of the 6 pro bowl tackles this year are going to be watching the games like us this weekend. Couldn’t tell you who the Giants LT is. We were one of the top rushing teams last year (with the underwhelming Fargas and Rhodes), and finished with a bang this year, so clearly we do not have one of the worst O-lines but in fact one of the best run-blocking lines. I like Henderson at LT, why would we rather pay a rookie who has never played in the NFL, close to ten times what Henderson makes, who has played very well at LT in the NFL.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:05 pm
Word…
FREE DIRTY!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:07 pm
WELL SAID VEGAS RAIDER, WELL SAID. I COULDN’T AGREE MORE.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:08 pm
First day off in 3 weeks, celebrating x-mass, new years, and anything else today. wtg, JJ
FREE DIRTY!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:08 pm
yes Omiss has 2 very good DTs
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:10 pm
Did Al really hire Brooks?
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:10 pm
and oh-yeah: FREE DIRTY!!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:11 pm
Someone fill me in, what happened to El Dirty?
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:12 pm
its tie’d
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:13 pm
Go Ole Miss!!! Make daddy some money
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Does anybody have an extra donut?
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Ole Miss beat Florida Texas Tech beat Oaklahoma. Man we NEED a play-off =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:16 pm
Crabtree has a gimpy ankle
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:16 pm
Harbaugh is “pie against the wall”
Hire Cable already so we can concentrate on the draft.
All of the other teams are rushing to interview and the Raiders are lagging…..typical AD. Unless he is having secret interviews at his home in Piedmont.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Vegas, other than the NYG who have put together the best Oline in the NFL with low draft choices,
Last year New England Pro Bowl Left Tackle, year before: Chicago Just drafted marquee LT, Indy: Pro Bowl Left Tackle
year Before: Seattle: All Pro Left Tackle NE: Pro Bowl LT
Year Before: Pitt: Excellent LT, Philly Pro Bowl LT
And I can go farther back. Mario Henderson played well, but he did not play at a near a Pro Bowl Left Tackle level. To really advance in the playoffs we either need a marquee LT or we have to be very very lucky.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:18 pm
Vegas….
Dirty had to surrender himself.. he’ll be gone 4 a year or less…
FREE DIRTY!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:21 pm
Draft a monster LT, move Henderson to RT, draft a C, replace DL, one aggressive ML, that’s all I want for x-mass.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:22 pm
Three squares, free dental……..FREE DIRTY!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:22 pm
see how this looks!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
“Buffalo’s Jason Peters gave up more sacks than any starting left tackle in the league in 2008.
His 11.5 sacks allowed came in only 13 games because he missed three with various injuries after a training camp holdout. He was even worse than fellow turnstile LTs Jeff Backus, Khalif Barnes, Kwame Harris, Max Starks, and Levi Jones. Peters has very little leverage if he still wants that raise.
Source: Palm Beach Post ”
Ouch Dakota. Wasn’t this guy your man crush for a little while?
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
Trying it on………FREE DIRTY!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
um….
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:25 pm
OG Revenge,
I get that you need to have a good LT, any team with playoff and SB aspirations really can’t have ANY holes. But Henderson played well enough to where we don’t need to rush and throw 45 million dollars at someone who may only end up being a slight upgrade. We have plenty of positions where we don’t have a young, potentially solid NFL player (Henderson), that need upgrading (center, DT, another LB, WR)
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:26 pm
408…
Dirty had to keep his word with the judge? If he’s in L.A. County, and stays out of trouble. Would only do 1/3rd of the time. Due to over crowding.
FREE DIRTY!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Did Al hire Brooks?
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Harrell of TT just passed Colt Brennen 4 most TD passes in NCAA history,he has 132 and counting
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Or just a rumour?
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:30 pm
909…. thats cool.. Jail sux I dont wish that isht on any 1.. I think Ill keep the hyper link it looks cool to me!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:30 pm
I don’t know who that sideline reporter is on the Tech side, but her voice is like fingernails on a chalkboard. Jeez.
Maybe it would sound better if she could say something intelligent.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:30 pm
LB and WR shouldn’t be addressed, nor will they be
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:31 pm
WHO THE HELL IS DIRTY???
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:31 pm
# vegas raider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:03 pm
#668:
Funny, but 4 of the 6 pro bowl tackles this year are going to be watching the games like us this weekend. Couldn’t tell you who the Giants LT is. We were one of the top rushing teams last year (with the underwhelming Fargas and Rhodes), and finished with a bang this year, so clearly we do not have one of the worst O-lines but in fact one of the best run-blocking lines. I like Henderson at LT, why would we rather pay a rookie who has never played in the NFL, close to ten times what Henderson makes, who has played very well at LT in the NFL.
——————————————————–
lst off, we’re talking about this year not last year. Yes, we ran the ball well 2 years ago, but this last year our offense was ranked near the very very bottom. We were last in passing, in the bottom third in sacks allowed, and our run offense did not perform as well even adding Darren mcFadden and Michael Bush to the mix. If we had even a decent offensive line, those things would not have happened.
Again everyone watches Mario Henderson and thinks he did incredibly well, but he had help on a majority of plays and was completely lost in the running game. He certainly has promise, but more so on the right side than the left in MHO.
The reason you would put in a rookie and pay him big $$$$ is Oher and Smith and Monroe took over the job as freshman and excelled and never looked back. That was not true with Mario as a collegian. Again, bottom line is practically every single team that is in the playoffs and Super Bowl has that marquee LT. Here’s our chance to grab one.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:32 pm
TCS
Brooks who?
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Is Crabtree out?
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Watching the Cotton Bowl. I have family, that are Tech alumni, so will be pulling for them. (plus they are Raiders, even if the are red)
But, I am keeping a very close eye on this Oher kid on Ole’ Miss. Like what I see so far. Good game too.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:35 pm
no
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:35 pm
# RAJ ALL DAY Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:31 pm
WHO THE HELL IS DIRTY???
—————————–
he’s our brother!
————–
909 I dont think he’ll be in LA unless thats where he got pop’d..
Dirty’s a SD cat!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:36 pm
Oakglenn’s Revenge Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Vegas, other than the NYG who have put together the best Oline in the NFL with low draft choices,
Last year New England Pro Bowl Left Tackle, year before: Chicago Just drafted marquee LT, Indy: Pro Bowl Left Tackle
year Before: Seattle: All Pro Left Tackle NE: Pro Bowl LT
Year Before: Pitt: Excellent LT, Philly Pro Bowl LT
And I can go farther back. Mario Henderson played well, but he did not play at a near a Pro Bowl Left Tackle level. To really advance in the playoffs we either need a marquee LT or we have to be very very lucky.
=======================================================
Mario was and is a project to be groomed. He’s made huge leaps inhis productivity and technique. VERY good in protection, but his run blocking needs work.
We knew coming out of Florida that he had only one good year w/ the Seminoles and that he needed strength training and alot of work. He’s done very well preliminarily.
Aside from McNeil, Joe Thomas and others, sometimes it takes linemen years to get strong enough, learn the techniques and execution needed to make the Pro Bowl.
Compared to Harris ( a first round draft pick mind you) Henderson’s much better. He may not be the best in the biz next year or even the next, but he’ll do well and likely continue to grow.
As mentioned before with Harris, sometimes picking a lineman high in the draft doesn’t pan out.
Like our “guard” Robert Gallery…
Give him sometime and Henderson could be part of a solid wall for a decade or more to come.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Brandon Williams just schooled Oher and sacked Miss QB.Williams is a senior DE,that was a great spin move he put on Oher
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:39 pm
Happy New Year’s!
1974 Raider’s vs. Dolphins divisional game on EPSN2
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:40 pm
Pat Summerall for GM. Sounds almost as senile as Al…lol
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:41 pm
man great game this cotton bowl,its tied again 21 all
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:42 pm
NFL Insider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:40 am
This just in: As fast as NFL teams let coaches go at the end of the season, they were just as fast in signing. Within hours of one another the Jets signed Mike Shanahan formerly of the Denver Broncos. The Cleveland Browns hired Rex Ryan a few minutes later. Soon to follow the Broncos hired Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh. Owner Pat Bowlen said that with the success they had with a certain Stanford QB they couldn’t pass up a Stanford coach. This move prompted Oakland owner Al Davis to hire Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops to be his next head coach. Davis also vowed to make sure that his first pick in the 2009 draft will be Beanie Wells from THE Ohio State Buckeyes. Stay tuned for further updates.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:43 pm
Exla…thanx..
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:44 pm
“Again, bottom line is practically every single team that is in the playoffs and Super Bowl has that marquee LT.”- Oakglenn’s Revenge
Only 2 of the 8 playoffs teams, 25%, have a pro-bowl LT, so hardly practically every single team. They obviously have adaquate LT’s and I think Henderson can become just this.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:44 pm
post 686 I meant Tech beat texas & texas beat Oklahoma sorry
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Dammit Stabler, what were you thinking.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
WOW, terrible pass by Harrell.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
OakGlen said:
“lst off, we’re talking about this year not last year. Yes, we ran the ball well 2 years ago, but this last year our offense was ranked near the very very bottom. We were last in passing, in the bottom third in sacks allowed, and our run offense did not perform as well even adding Darren mcFadden and Michael Bush to the mix. If we had even a decent offensive line, those things would not have happened.
Again everyone watches Mario Henderson and thinks he did incredibly well, but he had help on a majority of plays and was completely lost in the running game. He certainly has promise, but more so on the right side than the left in MHO.
The reason you would put in a rookie and pay him big $$$$ is Oher and Smith and Monroe took over the job as freshman and excelled and never looked back. That was not true with Mario as a collegian. Again, bottom line is practically every single team that is in the playoffs and Super Bowl has that marquee LT. Here’s our chance to grab one.”
Russell looked good and our pasing out put took off AS SOON AS WE PUT HENDERSON IN.
Tackle is the LEAST important position in the ZBS. If O’Neal AND Griffith hadn’t been hurt, they’d've assisted in chipping or providing valuable dump offs for Russell too, leaving the tackles less exposed.
Combined with lousy WR out put, our tackles were naked.
Far as our ground game goes, we’re ranked 10th out of 32. How is that terrible?
I wouldn’t say McFadden and Bush were added at all. DMC was injured and half speed nearly ALL year and Bush was barely used until the last frikin’ game so its impossible to imply they were toting the rock and simply unproductive. That would be a incorrect.
I understand your desire for a rock solid marquee LT, I really do, but its not neccessary given the ZBS (Thats assuming we have it next year) and FA’s likely to be there this off season.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Oak Rev: good points. Everyone is quick to point out that Mario Henderson is a stud tackle in the NFL. How many games did he start this year? 5? Being an upgrade over Kwame Harris doesn’t amount to much. Henderson still has a ton of stuff to work on, but it does look like the kid has potential. That said, we have no idea if he’s starting LT or RT material. He’s proved to be better than Kwame, so Kwame can be trashed, but an LT must be a special player. With a trio of good rb’s, it’s obvious we want to run the football. That isn’t Mario’s strength. He’s not consistant. We need to draft a tackle HIGH in the draft. If not round 1, then for sure round 2. The only way we wait until round 2 if is we have a shot at Crabtree @ #7. And for those of you saying LT can be filled in free agency, we’re done with scrubs on the o-line and overpaid injured jerks
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:47 pm
This is a really fun game to watch. I had a feeling when they announced the matchup that it would be one of the better bowl games, and it’s certainly living up to it.
Great battle between Oher and Williams.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Center is our obvious need on the O-line, why is that not hard to understand? How many times must we got stuffed up the middle on third and 1 for us to realize that. A better center, either FA or draft a RT (3rd round or so), and more experience for Henderson at LT and this unit will be fine. The last two weeks our O-line WAS ONE OF THE BEST UNITS EITHER TEAM HAD ON THE FIELD. Our D still sucked against the run, we need D-line help, another LB, and maybe another safety.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:51 pm
408……You see the post?
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:51 pm
I understand your desire for a rock solid marquee LT, I really do, but its not neccessary given the ZBS (Thats assuming we have it next year) and FA’s likely to be there this off season.
———————————————–
But what FAs tho? another Harris? Henderson is a good project, but hes just that–a project. How long do we wait till he pans out? Where is our offense if he doesn’t and we don’t draft one? We need two tackles any way we look at it.. If henderson proves hes good, then we still need another one. Green is not a starter.. Only problem is, is there a stud LT that can be in a ZBS (assuming we keep that)?
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:51 pm
Can you imagine this in Alameda?
_____________________________________
12-31) 18:42 PST — There was Aristotle, there was Descartes, there was Nietzsche and then along came a visionary named Mike Martz. While Mike Singletary’s view of the first three philosophers is unknown, his take on Martz is unequivocal:
“Our philosophies are different. It’s as simple as that,” the new 49ers head coach said Wednesday in his season- and year-ending news conference, a day after firing Martz as his offensive coordinator.
“We have to have a long-term solution for that position,” Singletary said. “Philosophy-wise, going forward, I did not feel the fit was there. … My offensive philosophy is more of a traditional one, more of a run to pass. My philosophy is to run a little more than pass it and hopefully have a balance, 50-50. The most important thing is to be able to run.”
Singletary has hit the ground running in his search for a replacement for Martz. He said he has a long list of possible candidates but would not disclose any names. He said he wants to hire an offensive coordinator “as soon as possible.”
Along with Martz, Singletary also fired quarterbacks coach Ted Tollner and running backs coach Tony Nathan. Singletary said his new coordinator will have the authority to hire a quarterbacks coach and an offensive assistant.
Singletary said no other changes to his coaching staff are expected as the 49ers prepare for 2009, unless an assistant leaves of his own volition.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:52 pm
Vegas, the OL also looked good in Denver…
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:55 pm
408….
My bad. I forgot he was from Dago. Anyway, if he stays clean he should get turned loose early. (:
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Ole Miss, hell yeah!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:56 pm
Nnamdi, I understand what you are saying but that is a HUGE gamble. Do you risk your marquee QB and basically your entire franchise that this Left Tackle who clearly needs a lot of work, somehow pans out?? What if he doesn’t?? It would set your franchise back years. Look at Jamarcus. With time and comfortability, he is outstanding. You could ruin him with bad Oline play. Is it worth the gamble?? To me, clearly not.
Over the weekend, watch guys like Jake Long, Tony Ugoh, Tra Thomas, Bryant McKinnie. Atlanta is a little bit unique in that Dan Reeves thought he could find offensive linemen in the late rounds. He was wrong. Then Mike Vick took over and they didn’t need a Left Tackle, they needed a right tackle because Vick was left handed, so they are slightly unique.
Basically, every one of these teams has an exceptional oline with a marquee pro bowl left tackle. This is our chance to get one ourselves. Marquee WR’s and LB’s are easy to find. Marquee LT’s are not.
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:59 pm
724.
2009 FA LT’s
http://profootball.scout.com/2/816325.html
So your saying take a flyer on someone like Gallery or even Kwame Harris who was a 1st rounder too. A guy who’ll likely need time to develop his game when you could plug in a vet who already knows what its like to prep for the bigs and with the experience to impact right away?
Green was never meant to be a starter, but he is unfortunately and harris was a crap signing experiment that made sense. he did well in the initial ZBS in San Fran. and struggled when they changed to a straight line scemem, so it was thought a return to the ZBS in Oakland may revive him.
Needles to say, that failed, but just because you take a tackle high doesn’t mean he’s going to work out obviously and eating $10’s of millions more on a bust would suck more than paying a decent FA who has an established body of work and has proven to be durable.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:00 pm
OG Revenge:
Under your theory that playing Henderson is such a huge gamble because Jamarcus might get hurt, how do you explain Jamarcus having his best two games of his career when he was playing? Were we gambling with Jamarcus’ future by playing him the last two weeks? What about playing a rookie LT that we know nothing about it, isn’t that more of a gamble than playing someone who has experienced success at the NFL level?
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:00 pm
A center is our biggest need on o line? Let’s bring back Barret Robbins. Seriously. Screw his mental issues. We’re the Raiders. We’re all about malcontents.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:02 pm
vegas: we also need a center, you’re right.
If Grove doesn’t opt out, he and Morris can handle it one more year. If he does, we need to draft one in the first 3 rounds. John Wade might resign here, but he wasn’t really an upgrade over Grove.. Maybe add Casey Wiegmann for depth?
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:02 pm
Bring me back too! I can still play.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:03 pm
Al Davis will set B. Robbins straight just like he set Javon Walkers straight. Some face time with Uncle Al is all B. Robbins needs. Remember, we’re the Raiders. We only bring in outsiders when all other options have failed. B. Robbins.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:04 pm
724. Raiderrockstar said:
“(Henderson) How many games did he start this year? 5? Being an upgrade over Kwame Harris doesn’t amount to much.”
DOMINATING some of the finest pass rushing defensive ends in the League amounts to ALOT…
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Does anyone know any bay area drug dealers that would be willing to plant a felonious amount of drugs in Al Davis’s car? If so, shoot me your e mail.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Super Bowl Season in San Diego!!!
I never stopped believing in this team. You all thought I was crazy, but I was wright all along. I don’t care about our 8-8 record because its the playoffs, and the Chargers are hot right now. They have to be the favorite to represent the AFC in the Super Bow.
Chargers 42, Cardinals 31.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Sea of hands game, always fun to watch
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:06 pm
# vegas raider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:44 pm
“Again, bottom line is practically every single team that is in the playoffs and Super Bowl has that marquee LT.”- Oakglenn’s Revenge
Only 2 of the 8 playoffs teams, 25%, have a pro-bowl LT, so hardly practically every single team. They obviously have adaquate LT’s and I think Henderson can become just this.
_________________________________________________
Actually Vegas what you should explain is 7 out of 8 or almost 88% of the 2008 Pro Bowl Left Tackles played in the playoffs LAST YEAR!!!! That is a pretty high percentage if you ask me.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:08 pm
737. Wiegmann’s begging the Broncos for retirement. Wade’s over the hill and Grove’s knee may finally be healed next year after 2 surgeries in the 08′ pre season and 2 years of untended damage prior to that.
Didn’t like Grove becaue he couldn’t get second level consistently adn it hurt our run game.
I say we give him one more year with Morris who does ok filling in all things considered.
If we stay ZBS we NEED a sloid center thats for sure and if Grove can’t cut it this year…
Tell you what, I certainly wouldn’t be opposed to a center in the 3rd or sencond day.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:09 pm
I looked into my crystal ball and saw this image of Super Bowl XLIII:
http://photos.signonsandiego.com/albums/061231cardinals/KC_Cardinals260226×554.jpg
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:10 pm
The ZBS is primarily designed for run blocking. It does pertain also to pass blocking but the marquee left tackle position still has to happen in the ZBS. Denver has been running the ZBS for over 10 years. They had an excellent Left Tackle who was a Pro Bowl player for years going back to John Elway. Last year THEY just grabbed a marquee Left Tackle and he played very well for them in both running and passing games excelling in the passing game. Anything else??
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:10 pm
We can set Al Davis up for a drug bust. You guys said I shouldn’t wish death on him, and that it was bad karma. I’ve gotta tell ya, I thought I was having a heart attack last night. Chest pain, short of breath. All I thought about was you guys and the karma stuff. I was scared to death. Turned out, I just had to take a giant dump. Felt fine afterward. But nevertheless, your warnings are heeded. I won’t wish death on anyone, ever again. So I say we move to plan B. Let’s plant drugs on Al Davis and get him put away. Sort of how Tony Soprano dealt with Feech Lamanna, or whatever that guy was. Dropped off some illegal swag at his place, had him thrown back in the clink. Whacked him without actually killing him, basically. What do you guys think? Know any bay area d dealers that would be willing to spare some junk to get Al put away forever? There has to be one somewhere that lost a grip on the Raiders in the past few years. Brien, you know of anyone?
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Shut the f*ck up Eastwood. Lets talk about a real team whose season is still alive like the Chargers. No one cares about your pathetic team.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:13 pm
# Nnamdi21 Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:04 pm
724. Raiderrockstar said:
“(Henderson) How many games did he start this year? 5? Being an upgrade over Kwame Harris doesn’t amount to much.”
DOMINATING some of the finest pass rushing defensive ends in the League amounts to ALOT…
____________________________________
Nnamdi he “dominated” because he had help. We were keeping TE’s and backs over to his side to help him. That really limits what we can do offensively, but it makes Henderson look good. And don’t forget, both games here in Oakland were on very sloppy tracks due to the rain. In the TB game, TB has a poor pass rush.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Rocky 1 is on AMC. Apollo Creed is coming down the aisle wearing an American flag vest and a wig, like G. Washington. Obama should do that at the inauguration.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:15 pm
742. Charged Up! Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Super Bowl Season in San Diego!!!
I never stopped believing in this team. You all thought I was crazy, but I was wright all along. I don’t care about our 8-8 record because its the playoffs, and the Chargers are hot right now. They have to be the favorite to represent the AFC in the Super Bow.
Chargers 42, Cardinals 31.
======================================================
Rivers can sling it no doubt, but to claim your team is red hot for the play offs because they walloped a Cardinal team already in the play offs and onthe field with NOTHING to play for seems like wishful thinking.
WK 13 ATL 22-SD 16
WK 14 SD 34 OAK 7
WK 15 KC 21-SD 22
Losing to a play off team shows your guys aren’t the shizz.Stomping the under performing Raiders and barely eeking a win over the craptastic Chefs hardly qualifies your team as being the AFC SB shoe in.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
#744:
Actually there is only 6 pro-bowl tackles not 8. And I didn’t see the Browns, Titans, Panthers or Bills in the playoffs last year, so I really don’t know what you are talking about.
Yes, you need a good LT in the NFL, we both agree there. But drafting a top pick LT, doesn’t guarantee you anything except you are probably going to end up overpaying someone.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
hey dumbass Nnamdi21, that will be the Super Bowl score.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
I agree, Charged Up. We’re bad. I’d even take 8-8 and choking in the first round of the playoffs over this. Anything’s better than where we’re at. I hope Al Davis gets nabbed for drugs.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
# vegas raider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:00 pm
OG Revenge:
Under your theory that playing Henderson is such a huge gamble because Jamarcus might get hurt, how do you explain Jamarcus having his best two games of his career when he was playing? Were we gambling with Jamarcus’ future by playing him the last two weeks? What about playing a rookie LT that we know nothing about it, isn’t that more of a gamble than playing someone who has experienced success at the NFL level?
——————————————————
Again, not really. Notice how much help we are giving Mario Henderson on pass plays. Michael Oher is a four year starter at Ole Miss going up against arguably as good a competition as he is going to see in the pros. Same with Andre Smith. Eugene Monroe I don’t know about. One thing all you guys fail to understand is you are bringing in a fresh player in the last 2 weeks of the season against players on the opposite side that have played basically an ENTIRE NFL SEASON. Think that makes a difference???
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:19 pm
The Raider Charger rivalry is boring. And, it’s not even really a rivalry because the Chargers have never eliminated the Raiders in the playoffs. The Chargers have never even won a Super Bowl. But the Raiders suck too. It’s boring, hideous football, and only Charger and Raider fans care. National media gives no recognition to any Raider/Charger rivalry. They don’t even show the highlights on sports center. Just the score.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Oakglenn’s revenge, how long have you been watching football?
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Mario answered our LT question,imo.We need a center RG and RT.Morris needs 2 take the center position,if he cant take Alex Mack with our #1.I dont know about RGs but will start lookin.At RT we have McQuiston and Mark Wilson,6-7,325lbs in his 3rd year out of Cal on IR.There are RG and RT 2 be had but a player like Mack is RARE.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:21 pm
750.Oakglenn’s Revenge Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:13 pm
# Nnamdi21 Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:04 pm
724. Raiderrockstar said:
“(Henderson) How many games did he start this year? 5? Being an upgrade over Kwame Harris doesn’t amount to much.”
DOMINATING some of the finest pass rushing defensive ends in the League amounts to ALOT…
____________________________________
Nnamdi he “dominated” because he had help. We were keeping TE’s and backs over to his side to help him. That really limits what we can do offensively, but it makes Henderson look good. And don’t forget, both games here in Oakland were on very sloppy tracks due to the rain. In the TB game, TB has a poor pass rush.
=====================================================
You don’t know what your talking about.
I’ll bet you’ve never even seen the games. I have. dozens of times and Henderson did NOT get “help” far from it. He dominated solo crack olo far more than he “got help”.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:22 pm
4evaRaider, Oakglenn’s Revenge, and Vegas Raider, now long have you guys been watching football? You guys seem pretty smart. I’ve been watching since the early ’60s, and you guys make me feel stupid. How old are you guys?
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:23 pm
clint…Raiders on espn2..tight now, 1974 w/ Dolphins
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:23 pm
right now
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:24 pm
Rocky’s starting to give Apollo a fight, and the song just started. Still gives me goose bumps. I think I’m going to box my wife.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:24 pm
OakGlen says:
“Michael Oher is a four year starter at Ole Miss going up against arguably as good a competition as he is going to see in the pros.”
BWAH HA HA HA!
“Arguably” is right…
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:25 pm
Yes, you need a good LT in the NFL, we both agree there. But drafting a top pick LT, doesn’t guarantee you anything except you are probably going to end up overpaying someone.
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I think drafting a top pick anything means you’re probably going to be overpaying someone..
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:25 pm
I can see it now Charged-up and Clint Eastwood riding up Broke-Back Mouantin together =)Fukk You Charged-up
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Screw Raiders and Dolphins in ‘74. I was there the following week when they choked against the Steelers. That might be great film footage for you kids but for those of us that were there, it’s depressing as hell. Happy times didn’t begin until ‘76. I’m watching Rocky 1 on AMC. Final scene. Rocky’s coming back and that famous Rocky fight song just started. It still gets me pumped up. I might just go knock my wife out, now.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:27 pm
Speculating on line pickups is ok, but all of that will depend on who the coaches are.
Coaches will look for players who fit their systems. Until those questions are answered, it is hard to see who will be here and who will be gone.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:27 pm
762> “Sea of Hands” I don’t want to ruin it for you, but we win.
Man, Stabler was awesome and Biletnikoff? Some of the best catches EVER…
“Who wnats it more?”
Freddy thats who…
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:27 pm
Oakglenn’s Revenge Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
“Michael Oher is a four year starter at Ole Miss going up against arguably as good a competition as he is going to see in the pros”
You have made some good points, but let’s not reach here. Please don’t tell me you think Michael Oher has faced better competition in college than Henderson did in the pros. Oher is playing against, what, maybe 3-4 NFL players, 1-2 starters. McShay’s top 25 Defensive Ends has 2, count them TWO, from the SEC. Admittadly I was shocked by that.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Hey, I’ll try anything at my age, 4evaRaider. See you on the mountain, Charged up. Say, 4evaRaider, how old are you? You know an awful lot about football. How long you’ve been watching the game? I’ve been watching since the early ’60s.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Chargers lose to Colts this weekend.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
vegas raider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
#744:
Actually there is only 6 pro-bowl tackles not 8. And I didn’t see the Browns, Titans, Panthers or Bills in the playoffs last year, so I really don’t know what you are talking about.
___________________________________________________
Sorry Vegas, I looked up 2008 Pro Bowl rosters figuring it would be the players from the 08 season. Hence the discrepency. My mistake. Let’s look at it this way; Jordan Gross playoffs, Walter Jones and Chris Samuels were both in the playoffs last year. Michael Roos, playoffs, Peters and Thomas not altho both teams were picked to be playoff teams. So four out of six left tackles playing in this pro bowl have been to the playoffs either this year or last. Vegas I think we are in agreement. The question is, would you try to grab a bona fide franchise LT, move Henderson over to RT also draft a center and be done with it?? Or roll the dice Henderson continues to improve??
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
769. K-rock:
Correct sir.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:30 pm
N21 & Vegas: I’m not trying to convince you that Mario Henderson is a bad player. All i’m saying is that 5 starts doesn’t make you proven. If the new coaching staff feels that Henderson should start, i’m all for it. Like I said, he’s a big upgrade over Harris.
However, as Jerry Mac points out pretty often, you need 2 tackles. If Henderson makes 1, we still need another … If Mario is left, draft a right. If Mario is right, draft a left.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Rocky just ended. But Im not watching sea of hands. Too depressing, because all I can think about is us choking to the god damn antichrist shytsberg steelers the following week. It’s too early for my dirty movies, So I’ll just see what’s on HBO. Oh shyt!!! Rocky 2, starting right now! My whole day’s set! Until my wife barges in and puts me to work, that is. Ugly f’n bitch.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
I’ve been watchin 4eva Clint =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:32 pm
774.
Arguably, you need an excellent “Pro Bowl” LT if your running amore conventional straight line, power blocking scheme.
As of right now, we’re not.
If we do make the shift and we’ll know soon enough, then, hells yeah, that scenario would make more sense.
Eugene Monroe: LT @ VT
http://www.profootballweekly.com/PFW/NFLDraft/Draft+Extras/2008/monroe062308.htm
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:33 pm
I can watch Rockys 1 and 2 a thousand times. Stallone at his best. Great writing, acting. Rocky 3 is when it started getting silly. Same with First Blood. Stallone at his best. Then with part two, starting the “Rambo” franchise, got kind of gay.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:34 pm
Cliff Branch….Rocks!!!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:34 pm
#774:
I want to address our inability to stop the run with the 7th pick, and I think we can do that with Cody from Alabama. I’m obviously not a scout so I could be way off.
Maybe I’m jaded from the Gallery selection, but I thought our line continued to improve throughout the year, and Center seemed like our glaring weakness. We still need two tackles, but would rather draft a guy in the third round or so (much cheaper) that could be our RT and let Mario develop at LT. I think our division is so weak we can compete for the AFC west next year, and would hate to lose a few early season games because our rookie LT is learning on the job.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:35 pm
Jordan was here 3 years too long! Just another chump who parked his fat arss! He’s now seen the light a patriarch.
“I don’t think I’ve ever really fully committed myself to a program, and I’m not just talking about from a working out standpoint, but just taking care of my body from a physical standpoint,” he said. “I truly believe that I can still be a starting running back in this league.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:35 pm
Clint…Fan since 64 here….
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:35 pm
How long, 4eva? I mean, if you’re 14 years old, then that means forever is 14 years. I’ve got pairs of socks that have been around longer than you’ve been watching football, if that’s the case. I’m only asking because you’re one smart mo fo. You, Oakglenn’s revenge and Vegas Raider. You guys really know your stuff. I’ve been watching this game for a half a century and I don’t know half of what you guys know. That’s all.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:36 pm
That’s nice, Christensen. but I wasn’t asking you,.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:37 pm
776. All good mang!
I enjoy a spirited argument.
My beef with a high Dp is sometimes like Harris and Gallery, they don’t live up. Tackles are the least important in the ZBS and RIGHT tackle is even LESS important meaning instead of paying a might be high DP a ****load of guaranteed moeny, why not go w/ a cheaper, proven, established presence? (If we go w/ another scheme, thatts a diff story…)
I agree, we NEED a tackle. I just question whether we need to take a $12-15 million dollar risk on a rookie newbie.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:37 pm
Hey, I’m sorry, Christensen, I didn’t mean to sound like that. I’m just trying to find out how long 4evaRaider, Oakglenn’s revenge, and Vegas Raider have been watching football, because these kids know their stuff. Haven’t you noticed that too? Vegas Raider’s name probably answers the question for him. Probably bets a lot. that’s one way to get a crash course on football. 4evaRaider and Oakglenn’s revenge, how long you guys been football fans?
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Chargers get PUMPED, WORKED, AND ROLLED THIS WEEKEND.
Colts 47, Chokers 10
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:40 pm
785. BS.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Eastwood, are you being facetious?
But I do bet alot. Holly crap the snap over the punters head in the USC games yesterday almost gave me a heart attack! Read previous posts today, liked Ole Miss (and bet) to pull off the upset, still plenty of time but looking good. Big 12 grossly overrated.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Actually Nnamdi I only watched the Houston Texans game and TB game live. I haven’t seen the tape. And I was not overly focused on Henderson. So I will look and see how much Help Henderson got. I know for a fact he got help on practically every play against Miami. That may or may not be true the last two weeks.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Agree, Ghost of Shannahan. I’m tired of people saying “out”, too. I think “out” went out about 10 years ago. But I guess not everyone has gotten the memo.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:45 pm
This Cotton Bowl is a good game. Gonna get back to it. I am having a hard time watching it and arguing with all of you guys at the same time!! See ya all in a bit!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Oakglenn’s Revenge Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:45 pm
This Cotton Bowl is a good game. Gonna get back to it. I am having a hard time watching it and arguing with all of you guys at the same time!! See ya all in a bit!!
——————————————————
So are you sitting on the couch with your laptop watching the game and bloggin? Or is your TV in the same room as your computer?
Either was thats some life you have bro, watch T.V. and blog. Nice.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:49 pm
Missed FG, WTF
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:49 pm
Hey Shannahan’s ghost, this Oakglenn’s revenge knows his football xs and os, though. Doesn’t he?
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:50 pm
Shannahan’s ghost, you need to relax, bud. Try and have a little more fun. It’s only a blog. We’re not at a funeral, the last I checked.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:50 pm
vegas raider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:49 pm
Missed FG, WTF
——————————————————-
Dude, please, for the sake and sanity of all things normal, either watch the game or blog. But, please don’t do both, it’s kind of creepy man. Go out, breathe, exercise, get some air, do something.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:51 pm
Vegas Raider, how long have you been watching football?
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:53 pm
Travolta’s son died? Wow. Bummer man. While on vacation in the bahamas. My god.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:53 pm
LMFAO, check this out. The Cardinals can’t even sell out their first home playoff game in Arizona. What a fuggin joke.
http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80dd35f7&template=without-video&confirm=true
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:54 pm
#807:
I can’t I’m at work. If it means that much to you I will stop.
#809:
Only 28 y/o, been watching since I was ten. I don’t think it is much more humanly possible to watch more sports (except Hockey) than I do. I listen to sports radio, read sports and blog here while at work, go home, read more and watch the randomeness of all games because I have action on them.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:54 pm
CHARGERS SUCK AZZ.
Sorry, just wanted to say that. they do though, we all know it.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:55 pm
Cable will be named HC very soon.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:55 pm
Shannahan’s ghost, what the hell is the matter with you? Do you need to eat or something? You sound like me when I’m low on fiber. My wife will tell you all about it. I start drinking beer on an empty stomach and I’m just like you.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:56 pm
vegas raider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Only 28 y/o, been watching since I was ten. I don’t think it is much more humanly possible to watch more sports (except Hockey) than I do. I listen to sports radio, read sports and blog here while at work, go home, read more and watch the randomeness of all games because I have action on them.
——————————————————-
So are you a single gay man?
Or do you just have a wife that doesn’t give up the pooty?
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:56 pm
You know your stuff, Vegas. You bet a lot? You live in Vegas, I presume. Do you handicap?
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:57 pm
#813
Happily married, get dome while watching the games. You should try it some time
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:58 pm
Sea of hands: Al Davis just said that the losses stick with him more than anything. Well, he must have a lot sticking with him in recent years. Maybe he’s obsessed with losing.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:58 pm
I pick winners Eastwood, whatever you want to call it.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:58 pm
vegas raider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:57 pm
#813
Happily married, get dome while watching the games. You should try it some time
——————————————————-
LOL, bullsh!t.
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Haha Clint Eastwood is MR, I can tell by the way he posts and he hates the new Eastwood movie because Clint comes down hard on thugs like MR.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:00 pm
MR is a f@g. There isn’t even ONE single person on this blog that likes that idiot. LMFAO.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:01 pm
Vegas Raider, don’t pay attention to this Shannahan clown. We have a guy like him we go fishing with. Just a cranky son of a bitch. We were talking to some beautiful young women a while back and he started getting all cranky with them. Scared them right off. What are you going to do.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:01 pm
Yul Brynner Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Haha Clint Eastwood is MR, I can tell by the way he posts and he hates the new Eastwood movie because Clint comes down hard on thugs like MR.
——————————————————-
MR likes it when Clint comes down hard, especially without lube. He likes it dry.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:02 pm
I’m guessing you don’t pick the Raiders very much then, Vegas Raider. LOL.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:03 pm
where did Charged-up go???
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:03 pm
Ghost of Shannahan, I don’t know what your problem is. You can have a little more fun in here, that’s all I can say. You’re way too serious, bud. We have a friend like you, and we pick on him like we’re in grade school. I imagine you get the same treatment in your social life, considering you even have one. Take my advice, lighten the fuq up, kid.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:03 pm
4evaRaider Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:03 pm
where did Charged-up go???
——————————————————-
Do you really care? wtf mang.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:03 pm
Yeah that MR guy loves to post his garbage before he goes about in the night ripping off his close acquaintences.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Florida Pete exposed O Clint yesterday
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Clint Eastwood Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:03 pm
Ghost of Shannahan, I don’t know what your problem is. You can have a little more fun in here, that’s all I can say. You’re way too serious, bud. We have a friend like you, and we pick on him like we’re in grade school. I imagine you get the same treatment in your social life, considering you even have one. Take my advice, lighten the fuq up, kid.
——————————————————-
Now now MR, getting testy are ya.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:05 pm
And, I am not Mr., who whoever you’re talking about. This guy another enemy of yours? You have so many to choose from, obviously. Your personality stinks. I’ve only known you for two minutes and I can’t stand you. You must be the life of the party in your social circle. LOL.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:05 pm
I just wanted 2 wish him nice Colts victory thas all =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:06 pm
Clint Eastwood Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:05 pm
And, I am not Mr., who whoever you’re talking about. This guy another enemy of yours? You have so many to choose from, obviously. Your personality stinks. I’ve only known you for two minutes and I can’t stand you. You must be the life of the party in your social circle. LOL.
——————————————————-
LMFAO. Baited you right into that one MR. YOu are so predictable it’s almost funny.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:07 pm
the Browns owner is burning through interviews like MR burns through rubbers with KoolKell!
I wish Al Davis would get these things rolling …
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:08 pm
Nnamdi21 Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:59 pm
724.
2009 FA LT’s
http://profootball.scout.com/2/816325.html
——————————————–
here Nnamdi since you profess to know, why don’t you tell me all the FA marquee tackles there are starting in the NFL right now? And I mean in the regular season because NONE are starting in the playoffs.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:10 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:07 pm
the Browns owner is burning through interviews like MR burns through rubbers with KoolKell!
I wish Al Davis would get these things rolling …
——————————————————-
LMFAO.
That was classic.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:11 pm
We like MR.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:11 pm
You guys have real issues in here. You must be guys that work for Al Davis or something, and my jokes about him dying or getting set up for drugs really offended you. How sad. This is a blog, not a waiting room at the doctor’s office. You guys are really going to have to lighten up. I don’t know how you guys get through life being this serious.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:13 pm
MR(Clint Eastwood) quit acting like the teenager that you are and quit posting as Clint Eastwood while hating on Davis. We all know you don’t like his new movie and that you are a thief by trade but you are so dumb you give away who you are just by posting what your pea sized brain comes up with as readable material to post.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:16 pm
You guys want to call me Mr. Clint Eastwood, that’s fine. I don’t see what the insult is by calling me mr. Is that some sort of inside thing? Whatever it is, I’ll roll with it. Say, has Al Davis choked on his own acid, yet? I don’t like to wish death on people but lets’ face it, when Al dies, we’re going to be good again.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:16 pm
MR’s brain is smaller than a pea, what are you talking about Sippy Cup?
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:17 pm
Speaking of work, leaving early and getting the weekend started. Going to the book to cash in my Ole Miss ticket, barring a miracle. Taking the under in the Bama-Utah game tonight.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:18 pm
Alright, Vegas Raider. See ya. you know your stuff. I’ll be checking back into to read more of you. I’m sure you don’t bet on the Raiders, LOL. Since you’re into the sure shots. you probably haven’t bet on the Raiders since ‘02.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:20 pm
I wish Clint Eastwood would shoot out the windows of Shanny’s new diner in Denver …
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:21 pm
MR=clint eastwood
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:22 pm
I wish Clint Eastwood would draw with Al Davis, and shoot on the count of 9. (then again, Davis would probably shoot on 8..). I actually wish Osama Bin Ladin would fly an airplane into the Raiders headquarters. It would be a tragic scene, but the Raiders winning again would be nice.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:23 pm
You guys are unreal with this mr. stuff. Whatever floats your boat, girlies. Ignorance is bliss. Like Im going to go away because you guys are calling me mr.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Shanahan just got a job selling Chevy’s in one of John Elways Denver area car dealerships.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:24 pm
We’re not calling you MR. You are MR.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Travolta’s son had a seizure while they were on vacation and the kid checked out. My goodness. Could you imagine it? I never cared much for Travolta but man I would never wish that on anyone. I wish death on Davis but he’s not a human being so it doesn’t matter.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:26 pm
Damm,I thought he was going to be our new waterboy…
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:26 pm
Whatever you guys say. I’m mr. Wow. I’m so insulted. These girls at the Raider blog are calling me Mr. eastwood now. Man, you guys sure come heavy with the put downs. I’m crippled. LOL.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:27 pm
We need some news. Declare Cable the coach already, Al!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Clint Eastwood:
are you sure you didn’t just finish watching The Punisher?
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:28 pm
It was a fumble, beside you being on this retarded mr train, I do like your screen name. You bet your ass it was a fumble,.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:28 pm
“True, most teams do pass more than run; this year, 25 of 32 passed more than they ran. But six of the seven that didn’t (Atlanta, Baltimore, Carolina, Minnesota, the New York Giants and Tennessee) made the playoffs, and the seventh is Oakland, the exception that proves the hell out of the rule.”
====================================================
Raiders need to get Bush and DMAC most of the carries. Fargas is a nice back to spell Bush during the game but cannot be the primary back anymore. The crashtest dummy can’t find space to run for daylight and is not big enough to shed too many blockers.
Bush/McFadden 09 — If running the ball is good for Flacco and Ryan…its good enough for JaMarcus!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:30 pm
I just loved the look on Gruden’s face on Monday, the day after the lowest point and worst loss in Buc history.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:30 pm
The Punisher? Never seen it. I was watching Rocky earlier. Now ESPN 2, outside the line. Interesting story about a blue chip girls basketball player that quit basketball and declined a full ride scholarship, chose to play volleyball instead. Did it to get even with her parents for pushing her too hard. She’s a patriot, far as I’m concerned. God bless her. Cute girl, too.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:33 pm
tom cable is a loser,…cant coach worth a damn,…is basically a stupid guy,…players dont really pay attention to him,…hes dumb,..fat…ugly…gets made fun of my players when hes not around….possibly gay…but he tosses Al Davis`s salad daily so will get the job.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Her parents declined to interview with outside the lines. I can just see the look on their dumb, a-hole faces. I hate parents that come down hard on their kids with sports and crap. Fuqqin taking out their own unresolved issues on their kids, making sure their kids make the team, etc. It’s child abuse, period. I love it when I see a story of one of these kids turning on their parents and just waking away from sports.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:35 pm
I like your style, Denny. And, would have to agree with you, on all counts.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:37 pm
Charged Up! Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Shut the f*ck up Eastwood. Lets talk about a real team whose season is still alive like the Chargers. No one cares about your pathetic team.
Hey Barney, let me out of here would you. I gotta place a bet on the chokers-redbirds superbowl matchup. The odds are 200-1 either team will make it that far. Think of all the moonshine I can buy whe I win that bet!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:39 pm
the angle 2 the sickness is revealing it-self
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:41 pm
What did I miss?
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:41 pm
4evaRaider, what happened to you? You were talking football earlier, and I was impressed. Ever since I asked you how long you’ve been watching football, you’ve just turned into a real a-hole. You’re not even talking football anymore. Just personal shyt. What’s the matter?
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:41 pm
Jerry Mac doesn’t have an update. Neither does Jason Jones! what’s going on in Oakland? interviews?
we need a fix !!! argh!!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:42 pm
You didn’t miss anything, 408Raider. Al Davis is still alive, unfortunately.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:42 pm
The Colts will have their revenge against the lame Los Angeles Chargers!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:43 pm
RaiderRockStar, here’s your update:
5-11.
Cable still here.
Ryan still here.
Worst of all, Al Davis still here.
That’s the news, and it’s tragic, indeed.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:44 pm
Im go check raidernews hopefully Ill have something to report when I get back…
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:44 pm
851 it was a thing of beauty wasnt it =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:45 pm
thanks 408. you’re the man
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:47 pm
=) =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:47 pm
LOL
http://blogs.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp?item=2309672
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:48 pm
If you guys expect me to make a decision today you’re SOL. I have to wait to see who doesn’t get the other jobs and pick from the leftovers. I’m calling Shanny and offering to pay him what I owe him plus some.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:49 pm
Gruden had to stay true to defense in Tampa. He was too timid to just build an offense. Look at his offense in Oakland. Gannon, Rice, Brown, a shyt load of running backs and a good offensive line. Wherever Gruden goes next he’s going to build his team with offense, and basically just leave the leftover to whatever DC he has. He’s not done.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:49 pm
my work blocks :
nfl.com
espn.com
raidernews.com
raiders.com
I used to have NFL Network, but Dish Network removed it from America’s Top 100 about 2 months after we signed up (2 year contract). talk about pi$$ed!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:49 pm
more of the same….
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=teamreports-2009-nfl-oak&prov=sportsxchange&type=team_report
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:49 pm
Al Davis, please tell me that’s your ghost, and that you’re dead.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Draft this kid Oher. Never been beat.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:51 pm
man that Carter guy has some fire yeah-baby
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:52 pm
Raiders.com? That’s the team’s website, isn’t it? It’s purpose is merchandising and marketing. Not the best source of information. I like this blog. I like that Raidernationstation, too. That guy cracks me up.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:52 pm
408 I got some fire 2 =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:52 pm
408
Im gonna miss u bro
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:53 pm
RRS
let me know if you cant open the links and Ill post em 4 ya… So in here will b!tch about it but Fuk em’… I understand when my brethren need their fix!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:53 pm
wow a kick-off from the “8″ yard line I NEVER saw that
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:54 pm
work blocked both those pages too 408.
reason “sports”
haha
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Im feeling this 1…..
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/99507-oakland-raiders-front-office-dilemna-silver-black-need-to-go-brown
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:54 pm
D-I-R-T-Y !!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:55 pm
SEC, baby!!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Yo Dirty!
likewise my brother! So when does it go down?
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:56 pm
dang it !!!
oh well. clocking out in 4 minutes anyways
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:56 pm
I read that earlier, 408… i likey.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:57 pm
RRS…
Anyone who has paid even the smallest amount of attention to the Oakland Raiders front office carousel over the last six years since the departure of the Bruce Allen/Jon Gruden tandem can understand the collective breath being held by the entire Raider Nation.
As we wait with anticipation for Mr. Davis to find the most important missing piece in the championship mosaic we are trying to create; a bona fide, proven winner of a general manager who is genuinely empowered.
We all know that anybody who accepts the position will have to have a clear and open communication line with one of the most hands—on and knowledgable owners in all of sports, and may have to enter the position with a head coach and staff in place of the owners choosing, which in fact may be a qualification to get hired as the GM—ain’t it fun bleeding silver and black!
With all of that in mind there has been a persistant rumor around that future Hall Of Fame WR Tim Brown. He has been lobbying for and has expressed interest in a front office position with the Oakland Raiders.
Author Poll
Would Tim Brown be effective in the Oakland Raiders front office?
* yes
* no
vote to see results
I know as a season ticket holder, I saw the real No. 81(Mr. Brown to the rest of the league) at three home games this season and only once officially as part of his Fox TV gig. While I don’t think that he is the solution for the glaring vacancy at GM, he would be a vital addition to the Raiders staff for one crucial reason alone—CREDIBILITY!
The media has made a huge issue that any free agent players careers are over once they head to Oakland and that anybody drafted by the Raiders is doomed to an underperforming and disappointing start of their NFL journey.
Agents blatantly discourage their top clients from going there and even have other current and ex-players or coaches lure talent away from the Bay and direct them towards other teams based on a fallacy that you can’t be successful or reach your full potential playing for the Raiders organization.
Tim Brown takes that argument and dumps it in the toilet where it belongs.
Try making that case sitting across from a future first ballot Hall Of Famer who spent all but the last year of his career wearing the silver and black. Tim Brown had one of the most successful careers in the history of the NFL representing The Oakland Raiders since the moment he was drafted by Mr. Davis.
Tim Brown loves and respects Al Davis and can be one of the greatest recruiters and talent evaluators that the Raiders could possibly ever ask for, a perfect company statesman who represents the best of what The Oakland Raiders have to offer.
Sometimes, to give your home a brand new feel, a fresh coat of paint is all that is needed.
In the Raiders case, a position directly under the new GM, responsible for bringing the real Oakland Raider aura to the front and center again, would be a significant step in the right direction for the front office, and would bring a perfect shade of brown to the facility of the silver and black!!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:58 pm
zeriously its nice to come on here and see all the posts that say free dirty from 408, 4eva, and todd. That chet is funny. thanks guys. GO RAIDERS!
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:58 pm
Jerry needs to get some new info. Dude is killin me.
January 2nd, 2009 at 2:59 pm
I aint done….
Here we go again. Again.
Contributed by Phil Barber – Posted: January 1, 2009 3:46:22 PM
The NFL regular season ended just four days ago, and already the revolving door at the Coaches Unemployment Office is spinning like a top. The 49ers have already hired their guy. Other teams have quickly rolled up their sleeves and gotten busy.
Here’s a quick review of the clubs with vacancies, and the men who have thus far been linked to interviews.
Jets: Bill Cowher, Steve Spagnuolo, Bill Callahan, Brian Schottenheimer, Rex Ryan, Marty Schottenheimer.
Browns: Eric Mangini, Spagnuolo, Jim Schwartz, Josh McDaniels.
Broncos: McDaniels, Spagnuolo, Raheem Morris.
Lions: Spagnuolo (is there any way this guy doesn’t get a job in 2009?), Jason Garrett, Leslie Frazier, Schwartz.
Rams: Winston Moss, Ryan, Frazier, Jim Haslett.
Your Oakland Raiders: …cue audio of crickets chirping.
The names listed above are all solid prospects, either officially slated for interviews (a couple have already removed themselves from consideration) or confirmed by inside sources. They’re not this-guy-would-make-a-good-fit guesses. But while the rest of the league labors frantically, the home team apparently sleeps. Not even interim coach Tom Cable has been confirmed as a candidate. And Raider Nation can only moan a collective “here we go again.”
First, a few words in Al Davis’ defense. The 79-year-old owner fell in San Diego nearly a month ago, and is nursing minor injuries to his ankle and knee. He didn’t make the trip to Tampa Bay last weekend, missing a Raiders game for the first time since 1979. He may need a little more time to gather his energy for the interview process.
And no one has ever proved that it’s wiser to act early. Many have called the Niners bold for hiring Mike Singletary without delay; nearly as many are calling the decision rash.
But when you look at the Raiders’ recent history ” the four largely lethargic coaching searches since the end of the 2002 season and the miserable record (24-72) they have engendered ” it’s hard to feel good about the do-nothing approach.
Raiders fans have gotten used to seeing the hot coaching prospects (Mike Tomlin, Ken Whisenhunt, Mangini, etc., etc.) snapped up while Davis dithers and deliberates or gets rejected.
Perhaps the Raiders are keeping a tighter-than-usual lid on their plans, and are ready to strike swiftly. It doesn’t look that way, though. More likely, it’s a case of here we go again. Again.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:00 pm
you guys have a great weekend !!!
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:00 pm
408
Late Jan or early Feb
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:01 pm
WTF is Al waiting for?
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Dirty…
I just re-did my name so I wouldnt 4 get to give my Free DIRTY Shout outs!
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:02 pm
Peace out Nation.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:02 pm
Jared Allen is a pathetic piece of $hit…
http://www.vikings.com/AkamaiPlayer.aspx?AkamaiVideo=Jared%20Tickets
This jerkoff has the sack to beg people who are struggling to survive to bail a bunch of rich MFers. Why don’t you buy ‘em up Jared? Or did you blow all of your “Cashshish” defending your DUI cases? And Goodell should go to Hell for continuing the antiquated blackout rule in this economy. People are losing their jobs left and right, and you can’t even throw them a bone by giving them a distraction? The NFL makes zilch from attendance anyway. It’s all TV. Everyone at NFL HQ should be ashamed of themselves.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:02 pm
Later RRS!
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:03 pm
well Dirty I wish you and your’s the very best this year =)
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Later Gator.. you east coast guys always get off early… LOL you go in early 2
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:06 pm
you on your phone Dirty?…. I got some new tunes on my playlist… you gotta hear track #2…..
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:08 pm
Come on fellas, the writing is on the wall.
Jim Harbaugh is our next HC.
Obvious signs:
1) He hasn’t signed the contract extension at Stanford yet? Why? Why wait? Why not sign it when it was finished? What are you waiting for?
2) If Cable was Al’s guy, why hasn’t he hired him already? Why didn’t he just name him the HC at the end of the season, or even by now? Why is he even interested in interviewing others?
Jim is our next headcoach.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:08 pm
Thanks 4eva like wise. 408 I saw the new handle and started laughing! That’s awesome! So we need to do a lot this season. Al won’t make a move until the season is officially over. that sucks
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:09 pm
4eva you still watching the bowl games? I havent seen any yet I wanted to see The red raiders but….
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Yep on the phone I wil check out the track when I get home
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:13 pm
I’d go to the Lions before I would ever accept a job with the faiders.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:15 pm
El Dirty,
Why don’t you join the rest of us and contribute to society instead of being a menace. You loser criminal. Get a life moron.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:15 pm
4eva…. new beer
http://www.lagunitas.com/
———————————
Yep Al’s gonna take his sweet time.. I hope the chubby guy gets a shot at being HC… That win over the buc’s was awesome…
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:16 pm
Marc Trestman Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:13 pm
I’d go to the Lions before I would ever accept a job with the faiders.
——————————————————-
Lol, yeah an 0-16 team would fit ya well Trestman, maybe you can improve to 1-15.
Stupid troll.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:17 pm
The Ghost of Mike Shannahan’s Past
dude I already asked you to stop trolling…. whats a matter you wanna talk about it? Im just sayin…
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:17 pm
If we don’t make it to the superbowl it’s because: If it’s the postseason, the San Diego Chargers must be dealing with injuries. This time, it’s running back LaDainian Tomlinson and tight end Antonio Gates who are hurt.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:18 pm
408RAIDER(GO SHARKS & FREE DIRTY!) Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:17 pm
The Ghost of Mike Shannahan’s Past
dude I already asked you to stop trolling…. whats a matter you wanna talk about it? Im just sayin…
——————————————————-
Ok sir. And yes, I would like to talk about it. Watcha got?
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:20 pm
and there playing the colts… dischargers aren’t going anywhere… Nice job beating the donkeys tho..
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Yo 408RAIDER(GO SHARKS & FREE DIRTY!)
Dude, that is probably the lamest playlist I have EVER seen. Metallica, Kid Rock, Mac Dre, and Chumbawumba all on the same playlist? What, are you like 16 or something?
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Ghost
LMAO… Im just sayin if you need to get something off your chest Im all ears… let it go man… Life’s to short to be all angry all the time…
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:24 pm
# The Ghost of Mike Shannahan’s Past Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Yo 408RAIDER(GO SHARKS & FREE DIRTY!)
Dude, that is probably the lamest playlist I have EVER seen. Metallica, Kid Rock, Mac Dre, and Chumbawumba all on the same playlist? What, are you like 16 or something?
————————-
sorry I dont listen to spice girls…. you got any suggestions???
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:25 pm
Anyone need a good playlist for their High School Prom, check out 408RAIDER(GO SHARKS & FREE DIRTY!)’s playlist. LMFAO.
http://view.playlist.com/12165303563/standalone
The hits of:
2 live Crew
Metallica
Chumbawumba
Johhny Cash
Pink Floyd
Ice T
2 Pac
Easy E
Bone Thugs N Harmony
The Greatful Dead
Weirde Al (lmfao)
Van Morrison
Ramones
Hendrix
Slayer
LMFAO. You can dance all night long.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:27 pm
you got a problem with weird AL… LOL
what do you listen 2 ghost?
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:31 pm
Awwww
where’d ya go ghost???? I thought we were gonna talk about your issues? LOL trolls are lame!
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:33 pm
Ghost, I can turn the Lions around faster than you could.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:33 pm
408RAIDER(GO SHARKS & FREE DIRTY!) Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:27 pm
you got a problem with weird AL… LOL
what do you listen 2 ghost?
——————————————————-
Do you bump your playlist down the streets of Los Gatos in your “tricked out” Honda Civic?
I got you mang, I know how you roll.
You see an old school ni66a and you quickly bumb 2 live.
You see a hippy white dude that might have some smoke you start to bump Metallica.
You see an old school hippy white dude, you kick it over to Floyd.
You see a punk rocker, you hit the Ramones.
YOu see the metalhead death rocker, you jam the Slayer.
You see a hillbilly, you bow down with Johhny Cash.
Man you got it all dawg, you down, your tight with everybody.
But, what you do bounce for the chollos, you got everthing for somebody but them.
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:43 pm
408, ain’t ya got no War to put on your playlist, vato?
January 2nd, 2009 at 4:01 pm
My value picks for the draft Mr. Davis!
OT Troy Kropog Tulane 6-6 315 4.95
OT Ramon Foster Tennessee 6-6 325 5.30
WR Greg Carr Florida St. 6-6 217 4.70
CB Domonique Johnson Jackson St. 6-2 200 4.40
CB DeAngelo Willingham Tennessee 6-0 200 4.50
TE Brian Mandeville Northeastern 6-7 253 4.80
ILB Jamar Chaney Mississippi St. 6-1 236 4.55
Punter Britton Colquitt Tennessee 6-3 205 4.90
You see this season those boys from Tennessee will produce( Gibril and Rashad) and I suggested Jarod Mayo last year pre-draft on this blog!
January 2nd, 2009 at 5:54 pm
KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CAB KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE
KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CAB KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE KEEP TOM CABLE
CONTINUITY
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:00 pm
The Ghost of Mike Shannahan’s Past Says:
January 2nd, 2009 at 3:08 pm
Come on fellas, the writing is on the wall.
Jim Harbaugh is our next HC.
Obvious signs:
1) He hasn’t signed the contract extension at Stanford yet? Why? Why wait? Why not sign it when it was finished? What are you waiting for?
2) If Cable was Al’s guy, why hasn’t he hired him already? Why didn’t he just name him the HC at the end of the season, or even by now? Why is he even interested in interviewing others?
Jim is our next headcoach.
—————————————————–
I am all for Cable, and I believe in Al Davis. He has to abide by the Rooney Rule, and he does not want to make a hasty decision. If he just hires Cable right away, with out looking at anyone else, that will just give everybody something else to slam him about if Cable for some reason does not pan out.
Raider for life
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:34 pm
Would Harbaugh keep Rathman and other assistants?
Would he be more of a detrement because he would need to instill a new system all over again,how long can all players sustain such a task going to an unstable team year in and year out?
Just a thought.
Hello everyone!
January 2nd, 2009 at 6:41 pm
I think Jets like Shanahan alot.
Spags might be their first pick though,enticing him to stay in NY.
January 5th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
I saw a rumor on one of the sites that when the FISH are sold later this month that Parcells has 30 days to opt out of his contract…Do you guys think he would be a good fit in Oakland and do you think he would even consider coming out there…maybe AL is waiting to see what happens in Miami…he turned that team around in 1 season and we have more talent then they had when he started…I’m not a fan of Parcells but the guy has a knack for success
May 20th, 2009 at 7:32 am
getlin…
eltcoouricge…
August 17th, 2009 at 6:20 am
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