Boschetti signed, Williams renewed
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Wednesday, April 1st, 2009 at 10:42 pm in Oakland Raiders.
While offensive coordinator at UCLA, an overachieving defensive tackle named Ryan Boschetti apparently caught the eye of coach Tom Cable.
Boschetti managed to hang on with the Redskins for four seasons, first as a practice squad player and later as a reserve. He’s played in only 22 games, but if this Washington Times story is any indication, Boschetti should raise the level of intensity at defensive tackle this training camp with the Raiders.
Maybe Boschetti can help light a fire under Tommy Kelly and Terdell Sands, two players the Raiders need to perform if they hope to improve their No. 31 ranked rushing defense.
Boschetti and Sam Williams showed up on Raiders.com on the Raiders transactions page as having signed contracts.
Williams, long considered an Al Davis favorite, has the size and skill set to be the perfect candidate for strong side linebacker but injuries and ineffectiveness have relegated him to a special teams player.
The Raiders moved up to select Williams in the third round of the 2003 draft. He was the first of two third-round picks that year, with Justin Fargas being the other.
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April 1st, 2009 at 10:43 pm
The man with the Hammand B-3 must have a list of favorite Blues artists…
April 1st, 2009 at 10:44 pm
Nothing like Dline depth
April 1st, 2009 at 10:46 pm
You know it!
April 1st, 2009 at 10:46 pm
DEFENSE DEFENSE… crap i thought we would be rid of Sam Williams
April 1st, 2009 at 10:49 pm
I thought we re-signed Sam Williams awhile ago already. I’m sure we did but the Raiders like to keep the information off the transactions list, just like they have with Chris Johnson.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:51 pm
Don’t know who this guy is, I hope al the hype is true though. I know one thing, Turd-ell and Kelly need to step it up this year bigtime!!!
April 1st, 2009 at 10:53 pm
So much for the scholarships being a thing of the past. Sam Williams never should have made the 53 man roster last year. Looks like the Defense is taking the back seat again. Thanks Al.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:01 pm
24
As of today he was still listed as an available FA OLB on foxsports. He was ranked next to last on their chart. He had to agree to play for the minimum, but even for that I would have passed on him.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:02 pm
Here’s why the Raiders won’t win until Al Davis is gone.
The Raiders opted to keep Tom Cable instead of hiring a coach who has:
a) a 95-81 regular season record
b) a 5-4 post season record
c) a Super Bowl championship
d) previous experience with the Raiders, where in that tenure he had the best won/loss record for a Raiders HC since John Madden.
Now that’s an owner who wants to win more badly than any other owner in the game…
April 1st, 2009 at 11:07 pm
More Raider facts:
Raiders all time leading passer: Ken Stabler (Gannon in close second)
Raiders all time leading rusher: Marcus Allen
Raiders all time leading receiver: Tim Brown
None of the 3 exactly “vertical game” type of players.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:09 pm
You’re assuming, of course, that Gruden would even want the job, and that his ego and Al’s wouldn’t clash, just like last time. Fact is, after he won a Super Bowl with Tony Dungy’s team, his record in TB was very mediocre. Add to that the miserable record of coaches in their second go-arounds with the same team (Art Shell, Marion Campbell, Chuck Knox, etc) and I’d rather have Cable.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:09 pm
I would be highly dissapointed if we draft everett brown with the 7th pick, does anyone else share the same sentiment>?
April 1st, 2009 at 11:11 pm
Raider Duck, it’s about winning, not egos. An owner who wants to win hires the best guy he can, period. Al Davis didn’t do that.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:14 pm
I agree that it’s about hiring the best guy for the job. Amongst the candidates who really wanted to coach the Raiders long-term (and weren’t just pulling a Kiffin), it came down to Jim Fassel, Winston Moss, Kevin Gilbride and Tom Cable. Of that subset, Cable was the best option. Remember that Gruden left originally because he and Al could no longer work together. Nothing I’ve seen of either man suggests they’ve suddenly become easy-going pushovers.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:17 pm
RaiderDuck, do you really trust an owner who keeps his GM after that GM puts up a 24-72 record in the previous 6 years? Imagine if another team did such a thing. Imagine what you’d be saying about them. Well, Al Davis has done just that. He’s retained himself as GM, after putting up results that would be unacceptable by even the most tolerant owner’s standards. Detroit dumped Matt Millen. The Raiders still have Al Davis. That’s not good.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:19 pm
RaiderDuck, how can you be certain Gruden didn’t want the job? Was Gruden offered the job? What was the offer? If you aren’t certain rather or not he was offered the job, how could you say he didn’t want the job?
April 1st, 2009 at 11:20 pm
Everette Brown would not be a good choice at #7. If the pick is kept, I’m hoping for either Crabtree or Maclin. Raji is too hot-and-cold. They’ve already got a talented, unmotivated NT in Terdell Sands. They don’t need another one.
The scenario I’d LOVE to see is Aaron Curry somehow dropping to the 7th pick. Doubt it’ll happen, though.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:24 pm
MaddenRaider: I have no inside knowledge of whether or not Gruden was offered the job (or even contacted about it, for that matter) except for this: it would have gotten out to the media somehow, and ESPN would have had a field day with it. Jim Rome would have talked about it a couple of days, at least. Since word of this never leaked out (and Gruden’s agent would have said something to somebody, if only to drum up more interest in his client), I feel safe in assuming he and Al never discussed the job. However, I could be wrong about this.
As for the GM business, I agree with you. Al needs to bring in a GM type, NOW. Parcells would have been ideal, but I’d settle for any good young personnel type with some cajones. Put him in and get out of the way.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:24 pm
RaiderDuck, you didn’t include Gruden’s name when you listed people who wanted the Raiders’ job. How can you be certain he didn’t want it? The only way you could know for sure rather or not Gruden wanted the job is if you knew for sure that he was offered a job, and rejected the offer.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:25 pm
RaiderDuck, the only way you could possibly know rather or not Gruden wanted the job, is if Gruden was offered, read, offered the job, and declined it. Was he ever offered the job?
April 1st, 2009 at 11:26 pm
RaiderDuck, do you think the Raiders can win with Al as GM?
April 1st, 2009 at 11:35 pm
Looks like you’re out of here, duck. I’m just wondering why you’d pass it off as fact that Gruden didn’t want a job here, when as far as anyone knows, he wasn’t offered a job. I just can’t picture an out of work coach turning down a competitive offer. If he was given one, hey, I concede to your point. But as far as I know, he hasn’t been. So we don’t know rather or not he wanted the Raiders’ job. No terms were ever presented to him. So, it’s more accurate to say that Al Davis didn’t want him. Which brings me back to may original point. Why does Al Davis go with Cable when there’s a coach as good as Gruden available?
Also, you said that you wish we had a Parcells type as GM. Does this mean you don’t believe we can win with Al as GM?
April 1st, 2009 at 11:37 pm
MaddenRaider: How could any of us reading this blog know if Gruden was offered the job or not? We don’t. How could we know if he wanted the job or not? We don’t. What we do know, however, is this: Gruden left six years ago because his ego and Al’s ego couldn’t fit in the same area code, let alone the same building. It was a mutually-agreed-to separation. As I said above, I doubt that either one of them’s become any easier to work with in the interim.
I would also respectfully remind you that the one and only time Cable and Gruden’s teams played each other, Gruden was thoroughly out-coached. In fact, it was bad enough to cost him his job. Am I saying that Gruden is not a good NFL coach? Of course not! But I am saying that I’m not seeing any evidence that NOW, for THIS team, he would be any better than Tom Cable. The fact that Cable and Al have a good working relationship and Gruden and Al did not is all the more reason to go with TC.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:39 pm
As far as whether we can win with Al as GM: I like what he’s done this offseason. Whether these moves pan out is not something we’ll know for months yet. However, it is not reasonable to expect a man in his eighties to be a full-time NFL General Manager. He needs someone else in there with him.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:40 pm
RaiderDuck,
You’re failed to mention Gruden’s name in a list of people who wanted a job here. I just don’t understand how you can come to that conclusion. How can you know rather or not someone wanted a job here if they were never offered a job? Gruden was never presented with any terms. He was not offered the job. This isn’t McDonald’s Coaches don’t stand in line outside of the alameda facility and fill out applications. Owners offer qualified candidates a job. That’s how it works. Now unless you can prove that Gruden was in fact offered a job, you have no basis insinuating that Gruden didn’t want a job here.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:41 pm
RaiderDuck, you said you wanted someone like Parcells as GM. If you like what Al’s done this offseason, why would you want Parcells?
April 1st, 2009 at 11:45 pm
LOL it doesnt take a genius to figure out that Gruden wants no part of the Raiders or Al Davis LOL.. id say its very safe to assume that Davis and Gruden never talked about coming back to Oak.. as a matter of fact. i think Obama will admit he is a Muslim before Gruden would ever accept coming back to Oak LOL.. i have to agree that out of the very week list of alternative coaching candidates Davis interviewed.. going with Cable was the better move
April 1st, 2009 at 11:48 pm
What Parcells did in Miami last year was unprecendented in the NFL (or North American professional sports, for that matter). You’d have to be nuts to not want that for your team. While I like what Al’s done this offseason, last offseason was a disaster. Can’t afford too many of those.
As for this Gruden thing: It’s not just a matter of calling someone up and saying, “You want the job?” You’ve got to contact the candidate, talk with them, interview them, etc. Now, admittedly, this would be short-circuited a bit with Gruden, since he and Al have worked together before, but there is still a process. Given the terrible way that most teams (even Oakland) keep secrets, I have to believe that if Gruden had in any way expressed interest in this job, either formally or informally, Jerry McDonald or Jason Jones or Peter King or Adam Schefter or Chris Mortenson or whomever would have gotten wind of it and said something.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:49 pm
Tomycar, it may not take a genius to figure out that Gruden wants no part of the Raiders, but it certainly takes a dishonest person to insist it to be true without any record of Gruden being offered a job. If Gruden wasn’t offered a competitive contract, there is no way of knowing rather or not he wanted to be here. And since there was no offer given to him, because, as Raiderduck said, we’d know it if there were, it’s more likely that Al Davis didn’t want Jon Gruden. One would have to ask; Why? Why do you choose Tom Cable over a coach with Gruden’s record? Doesn’t sound to me like an owner who puts winning above all else.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:52 pm
RaiderDuck, either you want Parcells having the final say in all football decisions in Oakland, or you want Al Davis. Take your pick.
Regarding Gruden, again, you’re dancing around. You brought forth a list of coaches who you said wanted to coach here. You failed to mention Gruden’s name. I just don’t understand how you can know that Gruden didn’t want to be here if you aren’t sure as to rather or not he was offered a competitive contract.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:54 pm
I see someone stole my name blackholepriest but it’s OK he’s just not me.
Ryan Boschetti is a kid I’ve known since comming out of UCLA he hails out of San Mateo Ca. He’s gotten all he can get out off his talent. He’s an effort guy who has a great motor and will work his rearend off. Not a bad get.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:00 am
Given the choice between Parcells and Davis, I thought I made my opinion clear: Parcells. However, he’s currently under contract to the Miami Dolphins.
As far as leaving Gruden off my “list,” it’s not incumbent upon me to prove that he DOESN’T want to coach here. I ask you this: what evidence have you seen that he DOES want to coach here? I, personally, haven’t seen any at all, which is why I never considered him a real candidate to return. Too much bad blood, even given the obvious respect that Al and Gruden still have for one another.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:03 am
My name got jacked, too. How desperate. The site’s moderated now, their biggest weapon was cloning people’s names. I’m sure someone will just post under my original name but they can’t say all of their usual vile stuff without getting banned. All they can really do is say the opposite things that I say, to try and confuse people. Futile effort. I’m here under this name and everyone will figure out who’s who. I guess the idea was to keep me from commenting or discourage me. Like I can’t just add something to my name. Pathetic. But, that’s Davis loyalists today, for you.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:06 am
Why would you want Gruden back? I believe he left the Raiders an old team. He left it a team depleted of any game ready young talent such that when those older players started dropping out, the team was unable to be competitive. Really, I don’t think the guy knows how to draft. He was Raiders coach 98-01, besides Lechler what do we have to show for it? Kind of looks that way in Tampa right now.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:08 am
RaiderDuck,
Why would we need Parcells if Al Davis is doing a good job, as you said earlier? We’re set at GM, right? Long as Al’s ticker’s going? I don’t get it. Why want Parcells, and choose him over Al Davis, when Al’s doing a good job?
Back to Gruden. Al Davis can offer the job to anyone. There is no fixed list of applicants. He can call anyone up, offer them a job. He never offered Gruden a job, when Gruden is obviously a far better candidate than what we have now. That doesn’t sound to me like an owner who puts winning above all else.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:08 am
Name-jacking is beyond pathetic. If you’ve got something to say, then say it and don’t hide. It’s like when I lived in Eugene, and you had all these “Anarchists” who claimed to be so proud of who they were and what they stood for, and then would wear masks all the time.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:08 am
All I’m saying is he can sustain a good team for a short period of time. He can’t build a team. He can’t work with young players.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:09 am
VT Raider,
Gruden’s record is immaculate compared to Tom Cable’s. Why would any fan who wants to see this team win NOT want Gruden back? That’s the question. We won when Gruden was here.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:11 am
VT Raider, who built the team that Gruden coached here?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:13 am
I’m not debating we were winning when he was here. What I’m saying is basically repeating #37. Gruden would not work in the Raiders present situation. Russell would drive him nuts. Gruden likes veteran Qb’s. Everybody here was complaining how old the team was a few years ago. Now it’s younger. That was the knock on Gruden, he can’t work with younger players. Grass is always greener I guess.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:14 am
VT Raider, who built the Raider team that Gruden coached?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:15 am
VT Raider, if Russell drove Gruden nuts, then Gruden should just cut him. You make it sound like Russell is a future hall of famer.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:15 am
MaddenRaider: If you go back and look at my previous posts, I specifically said that Al needs a GM-type. I also said that while I like what Al’s done this offseason, I do not like last offseason at all, or, for that matter, the majority of offseasons in the last decade. Too much treading water. He needs a GM. However, as long as he’s running the team, a new GM will be brought in on Al’s own sweet time. Nothing we can do about that.
Second, I don’t know that Gruden is a better candidate than Cable. Like I said, since he out-coached Callahan using Tony Dungy’s team, Gruden’s own TB teams have been very up-and-down. And, Cable did outcoach him in their one matchup (where I believe the Bucs were double-digit favorites). Gruden’s got all the classic hallmarks (increasing desperation, riding his players harder and harder, questionable personnel moves) of an burnout case. If he were interested in coming back to Oakland in a year or two, and Cable hadn’t worked out, great! But, RIGHT NOW, Cable is the better choice of the two.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:17 am
And he built it with aging players. Without googling Tampas roster during his tendure there I’d bet he did the same thing in TB. They look to be in a bad spot right now. You complain that the teams too old. It gets young and then you want the guy back that is responsible for making the Raiders old? I just don’t think he is the right guy for the job right now.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:18 am
RaiderDuck, I don’t know what you mean when you say that Al “needs a GM type”. Somebody makes the final decisions in football operations. You said you’d rather have Parcells, but that Al was doing a good job. If Al’s doing a good job, why do we need Parcells? With all due respect, you seem confused as to who you really want to run the Raiders. It can’t be more than one person. With football operations, the buck stops somewhere. Should it stop with Al, or Parcells? I know you’ve answered the question. The problem is, you’ve given more than one answer..
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:19 am
VT, then he built a successful team, did he not? A team that went to the Super Bowl in ‘02 with only a team coached by him, ironically, standing in the way. Gruden built a team. You just admitted it. So why you would first say that Gruden can’t build a team is beyond me.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:19 am
I guess I’m kind of echoing Duck. Cable is the better choice right now. He seems excited to be working with the young guys. In 3 years if the Raiders are consistently competitive, I’d be all for Gruden coming back. If the situation were such.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:20 am
Cable is better than Gruden, based on what data?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 am
No “seems”. What records or stats do you have that would clearly determine Tom Cable to be a better coach than Jon Gruden? Gruden’s record is impeccable next to Cable’s, whose record is practically non existent.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 am
Yes, again I’ll say it, he built it. I am not, repeat NOT, arguing that point at all. Are you missing my point? (Sorry if that sounds like I’m getting pissy, I’m not) What I am also saying is I don’t believe he can work with young players, which is what the Raiders have. He’s not the right coach right now. That’s my point. He’s not right because the rebuilding would start all over again.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:25 am
By a “GM Type,” I meant someone like Ron Wolf or Kent Herock or Bruce Allen or Mike Lombardi: someone who can assist in evaluating talent, and suggest players, coaches and whatnot. The buck has stopped with Al for four decades now, and that’s probably not going to change anytime in the near future. Remember that Al’s mom lived into her 100’s.
IDEALLY, Al would give that decision-making power over to Bill Parcells. However, it’s questionable whether Al would do that, even for Parcells. Besides, it’s a moot point: Parcells is currently under contract to the Dolphins.
I said I thought Al was doing a good job THIS OFFSEASON. That doesn’t mean that he still doesn’t need to hire a GM, because he does. While I believe that he’s pulled it together these last few months, it is not realistic to expect that this will continue, particularly when you’re talking about a man in his eighties holding down a job that taxes men half his age.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:27 am
VT Raider, I only have your words to go on. You said clearly that Gruden can’t build a team. Scroll up and see for yourself. I asked you, then, just who built the team that Gruden coached when he was here. Your answer? Gruden! WTF?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:29 am
RaiderDuck, you are all over the road on this GM thing.
Cards on the table.
If you have a choice between two people having the final word on all football related decisions in Oakland, who would it be, Al Davis, or Bill Parcells?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:30 am
As I’ve said several times now, Parcells. BUT HE’S UNDER CONTRACT TO ANOTHER TEAM. So we can’t have him, obviously.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:32 am
I’ll get to work on finding data. Madden, what makes you thin Gruden would be better than Cable. Stop citing win/loss records. Give me another basis for your opinion. How many times have winning coaches went to others teams and stunk it up? Why would you not prefer this fresh start and rather go for more retreads? Yes, he did it once here, and won a SB with another coach’s team. Give me more than that.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:32 am
OK, you want Parcells. I know he’s under contract with another team. We’re speaking hypothetically here, anyway. But I have to ask, why do you want Parcells when you’ve more recently said that Al Davis is doing a good job?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:36 am
You misremember. (That’s a joke, I say, a joke, son) If I said he can’t build a team then I was wrong. He did build a team, once…..once. But, Al had nothing to do with it? Gruden was the only person involved in bringing those players in?
Again, I will say it. I don’t think Gruden is the right person for the Raiders right now. We heard it all last season. Gruden does not like to work with young players. Especially young QB’s. You have to at least see my point here.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:36 am
VT Raider, data means anything statistical. What stats, or records, have you seen that would convince you that Tom Cable is a better coach than Jon Gruden? My reasons for Gruden being a better coach than Cable are based on Gruden’s career record. He’s coached in the league 11 years and has a record over .500, a playoff record over .500, a super bowl victory, and, to boot, he has experience in Oakland, having already once turned the franchise around. Tom Cable’s experience is basically blowing a whistle.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:36 am
THIS OFFSEASON, he’s doing a good job (I think — we won’t really know for months). But he’s in his eighties, with more misses than hits recently. So there is still the need for a GM. Mike Mayock would have been great, but he didn’t want to leave the east coast. I have no idea who the next GM will be, just that we do need one.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:38 am
VT, you’ve admitted that Gruden can build a team, so the reason you gave for not rehiring Gruden regarding his supposed inability to build a team is out the window. What’s your next reason?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:39 am
RaiderDuck, there is no way of telling what kind of job Al has done this offseason until the upcoming season is complete.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:40 am
BTW, is this the comment section of a sports blog or “Perry Mason?” Just want to make sure I registered in the right place.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:42 am
LOL. I do sound like a lawyer. It’s my style. But does this mean you’re throwing in the towel?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:43 am
No, I am not throwing in any towel. I am, however, going to bed, as I have to get up in less than seven hours. ‘Night, all.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:46 am
LOL. I’d be tired too stretching the truth the way you did. But hey, it’s part of being a loyal fan, right? I used to stick up for Al and the status quo at Alameda, too. But I eventually got sick of the losing and started to tell it like it is. Goodnight, Raiderduck. Enjoyed the spirited debate, and pointing out the inconsistencies in your comments.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:46 am
Secret Sam – one more bag of money taking up a roster spot. When will it end?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:54 am
No towel throwing. Since we’re basically having a debate of a hypothetical situation, it’s all opinion.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:58 am
I wasn’t debating a hypothetical situation, sans my response to RaiderDuck regarding Parcells. My point from the get go is that Gruden’s record is immaculate next to Cable’s, and as far as anyone knows, Gruden wasn’t even considered by Al Davis. My second point was that an owner who wants to win doesn’t overlook such opportunities. Those points are still on the table, uncontested.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:04 am
Dude Gruden just ot fired by the team he won the SB with 7 years ago. Why because it became blatantly obvious he just rode a wave that was created by the previous coach. He allowed a very young talented team to get old and vulnerable.
Gruden is what you call a hype man as a coach a fantastic motivator. Who has excellent X’s and O’s knowledge but he has proven to be a lousy talent evaluater. We don’t yet know what Cable is in the category but he seems to get players to play for him. And believe in each other.
Cable has down a remarkable job in a very short time. And he doesn’t have his eye on another job he’s dedicated to be the HC of the Oakland Raiders something everyone said didn’t exist. Not only does he exist but he is proving to be quite a find.
The talent on this team is young and desparately needed leadership, he’s provided that. Not to mention an exciting offense, which is a departure from anything Gruden has to offer. The work he’s doing with Russell is just HUGE. I also like the fact that he’s got his ego in check instead of standing on the sideline making faces hoping the camera catches it. He’s a FOOTBALL coach plain and simple. Not some media creation who’s gotten caught up in his press clippings.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:10 am
Consider them contested and slammed.We just don’t need the retread…..been there done that. Cable deserved the job and got it over not Gruden but another brilliant offensive mind whom by all counts was very worthy candidate.
Give the Gruden crap a rest let him take a college job along side Kiffin.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:11 am
Finally registration! It has been sad seeing people post under my moniker the last few weeks. Now hopefully we can actually talk Raider football.
I like the addition of that DT. Sands has never shown anything. He had one AVERAGE season in 2006 everybody hangs their hat on but he needs to be pushed out of the line up.
A trade down seems possible but unlikely it will happen before the Raiders are on the clock and their trade partner knows they can get the guy they want to move up for.
The big question is; Who do the Eagles want that badly?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:16 am
priest, all that’s obvious is the fact that there was a coach available with a record that is just astounding compared to the record of who we hired. I challenge you to come up with one single statistic that suggests Tom Cable is better than Jon Gruden.
Nobody here has either contested, nor slammed, that point. You’re just the third person to take a crack at it while obviously being short on facts.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 am
COW, the registration is nice. Normally, you know who would be cloning my name tonight with the usual vulger, “look at me” sophomoric humor. He can’t do it. You need a password to post under the name, “The Real MaddenRaider”. Ha ha. You keep on knockin’ but you can’t come in…
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 am
This Isn’t A Video Game.
Attitude!
Gruden? Wouldn’t work.
It is like putting Terrell Owens on the 49ers with Jeff Garcia. On Madden 09 you could win a bunch of games. In real life? No.
Gruden had a great run here but those bridges are burned. PLUS Gruden is a terrible fit! Gruden is not a develop young talent guy. He is a sign old vets kinda coach. Not a good fit at all for our team.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:22 am
Coach on Wheels, you’re right. Gruden’s success in this league never happened. It was all on a video game…
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:24 am
I agree RMR it is nice to be able to read through actual pots about the team.
I agree with you guys that Gruden is better established than Cable but I think Cable is a better fit. Experience isn’t everything as your namesake John Madden proved.
Well. out for tonight bye folks.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:33 am
I hope this comes out ok. Here’s Grudens HC record. His record with TB looks more like a roller coaster ride than any kind of model of consistency.
And yes, if you look it up, Cable had 4 losing seasons as HC of Idaho. This is his first HC job as we all know. He took over the circus for the last 12 games last year and compiled a .333 winning percentage. While not outstanding, it’s his first NFL gig.
OAK 1998 8 8 0 .500 3rd
OAK 1999 8 8 0 .500 4th
OAK 2000 12 4 0 .750 1st
OAK 2001 10 6 0 .625 1st
Total 38 26 0 .594
TAM 2002 12 4 0 .750
TAM 2003 7 9 0 .438 3rd
TAM 2004 5 11 0 .312 4th
TAM 2005 11 5 0 .688 1st
TAM 2006 4 12 0 .250 4th
TAM 2007 9 7 0 .563 1st
TAM 2008 9 7 0 .563 3rd
Total 57 55 0 .600
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:33 am
Impressive record, are you nuts? what the hell has he done? after the SB Oh! I get ti won a couple of division titles and got his ass kicked in the playoffs. How many QB’s has he gone through? he’s slept with every noddle armed journeyman QB in the league. His own players have him the booot the minute he was fired they ripped him a new ass.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:39 am
Madden
Where do you expect anyone to find “stats” that would lead them to believe a HC with 12 games under his belt would come even remotely close to the “stats” the Chucky would have? That is a terrible argument.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:54 am
Cable’s first NFL HC job that is.
Grudens avg winning % for the two teams is 0.597.
The Raiders winning % after he left is .313. Does Gruden bear any responsibility for the teams performance after he left? I say yes is those players brought in were old and/or the typical castoffs the Raiders are famous for bringing in, and had short stays in the bay.
For someone who is fed up with the losing (aren’t we all), you seem too willing to hitch a ride on a train that left long ago instead of going in this new direction.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:58 am
Plus, if you take out the year Tampa won the SB, he has a winning percentage of 0.469. That’s under .500 folks.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:59 am
And if you say Gruden wasn’t responsible for bringing in those players, then he didn’t “build” the team.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:05 am
Still haven’t seen any of you produce one single fact that would refute my point that Jon Gruden is far better than Tom Cable. When you’re a team as bad as the Oakland Raiders, your goal is to win, ASAP. You have a coach available who’s proven he knows how to win in this league. Then you have an interim coach who’s been nothing but an offensive line coach his entire life. So, you go with the line coach? Doesn’t sound like an owner who takes winning every seriously.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:09 am
VT Raider, if you take out the Gruden era, the Raiders would have just completed their 12th straight season with 11 plus losses. As long as we’re taking out seasons…
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:10 am
I take out the SB season because everyone seems to be of the opinion he did with Dungy’s guys.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:10 am
priest, who’s done better since Super Bowl 37? The Raiders, or the Bucs?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:11 am
And I take out the Gruden era from the Raiders overall winning percentage because without Gruden, the Raiders would have continued to suck through those years.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:19 am
And I wasn’t taking out an entire era, just a season.
A season can make all the difference. Jimmy Johnson’s lifetime winning % in the NFL is 0.556. If you take out his first year when the Cowboys went 1-15, his winning % is .625
Madden, in your opinion, how do you think Gruden would handle Russell? I’m not getting off point. That’s a big piece of the puzzle.
You would be a perfect fit to coach for Al Davis. You want to keep doing things the old way because that’s what’s worked in the past. If Gruden were to come in there would be years of more upheaval.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:20 am
RaiderNation951, the point is getting the best HC for the Raiders with a proven record. True, it’s not Cable’s fault he has no record to speak of. But this is the NFL, and winning asap is top priority. I wasn’t aware the Raiders’ were giving tryouts for unproven coaches. Coming off of a 24-72 record in the past 6 years, is this really the time for such experimenting? Meanwhile, you had a coach with a winning percentage over an 11 year span, with a winning playoff percentage, a super bowl victory, and a former stint with the Raiders where he turned the franchise into a winner, to boot? Seems like a no brainer to any owner serious about winning. But then again, we’re talking about Al Davis here. Who knows what he’s serious about?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:22 am
Al’s serious about his Raiders gear.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:23 am
I think a better question to ask would be if Russell could fit Gruden’s system. Why would the burden be on Gruden to develop Russell? Who says Russell is the next Rich Gannon or Ken Stabler? If Gruden sees something special in Russell, Russell stays. If not, Gruden brings in someone else. Someone who can help the team win, not someone who can just throw the ball 80 yards…
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:24 am
LOL. True. But I’d like a GM serious about winning football games. We don’t have that when our GM is passing up coaches with Gruden’s credentials to take a chance on a career offensive line coach.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:28 am
There is no guarantee that Gruden could win here again. Seifert did it in SF, couldn’t get it done in Carolina. Same with Mariucci, Dan Reeves (while ATL did go to a Superbowl, overall under 500 in his tenure) or Dennis Green. Just like there’s no guarantee with Cable.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:30 am
So what you want is immediate short term gratification with no chance of long term success? I’m not saying Gruden would mean instant winning.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:31 am
VT, I didn’t guarantee Gruden would win here again. I said he was a far better candidate than Tom Cable, and he is, by a long shot. There’s no comparison.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:33 am
VT Raider, any kind of success will do. Do you want a 3 year plan, when we’ve sucked for 7 years? 10 straight years in the tank? My goodness…No thanks. It only takes a couple of years to build a team in this league, anyway. It’s not like the old days. You get a coach/gm or both that know what they’re doing, and things are in motion (Miami).
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:34 am
It sucks that you can’t clone my name anymore, doesn’t it, slash? What’s your strategy, now?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:34 am
We’ve had, what, 3-4 starts at a 3 year plan, and you want to start another?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:36 am
VT Raider, we’re at year zero right now. We have a coach who’s still using Kiffin’s playbook, for crying out loud. He doesn’t even know what he’s doing! It’s a decent running offense, but Al’s not going to let him run the ball. You know that.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:38 am
Gruden was a great coach for the Raiders, period.
He was awesome for us and brought us back.
But I wouldn’t take him over Cable right now. Gruden’s stock has fallen and there is too much baggage. Gruden has gotten to be a charactature of himself and his Chucky personna. The Chucky thing worked for a while, but got old fast for players in TB.
Additionally, Gruden is NOT good at personnel decisions. Look at all the junk QB’s he rotates in and out. All the old dudes he gets and has not shown that he can develop talent at all.
Besides, Dennis Green has a better record than Cable, but you wouldn’t want him over Cable, would you MR?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:39 am
I’ll agree to a degree that you can build a team in 2 years. Let’s see what this year brings for Atlanta and Baltimore. A team can be built to surprise the heck out of everyone. Then the next year get squashed. The Patriots (don’t beat me up for saying that name here), wouldn’t be what they are today had Bledsoe not gotten hurt. This whole thing is a crap shoot.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:39 am
MR? Clone your name? I’ve never trolled you. I’ve never trolled at all. Only posted under my former name Copenhagen Fan.
Oakglenn is the guy who trolls you.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:42 am
MR the only time I’ve ever had a confrontation with you, you got very infantile and avoided taking me head on, because you realized that my intelligence almost reached the glorious level of Oakglenn’s 155 IQ.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:42 am
Yes, I would take Dennis Green over Cable. Tom Cable is an offensive line coach, using Kiffin’s playbook. Green’s a hot head but he’s better than what we have. So is Gruden.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:43 am
Slash, you’re insane.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:43 am
Madden, can you please read post 105. Myself and others have voiced these same concerns about Gruden yet you haven’t responded to these criticisms. Now, none of us know Gruden, and these are all flaws we’ve just read and heard about. But these opinions of Grudens short comings are repeatedly mentioned, and not just here tonight. They’ve been out there for years. So other than thinking Gruden’s a better coach you haven’t given your opinion on anything else.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:44 am
How do you know Oakglenn is the guy who trolls me, btw?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:44 am
I didn’t want Chucky to go. I was pissed he left. That being said, he doesn’t need to come back and save the franchise. He and Bruce Allen didn’t do the Raiders any favors by sending out the oldest team in the NFL. They tried the same thing in Tampa and the the players were out of gas by seasons end. Remember his last game? Cable has this team going in the right direction, so yes he deserved the shot over Gruden.
I would like to see Gruden back in some capacity with the team. Just not the HC. Let Cable do his thing.
If he is never given a chance how will we know if he was the right hire or not? Didn’t Art Shell have a proven record before he came back to be the HC? How did that turn out again?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:45 am
MR Dennis Green? OK. In my opinion I would prefer Cable, just for the mere fact that he’s able to deal with Al Davis (who is not going anywhere).
Of course Cable used Kiffin’s playbook last year. Would it be smart to change the entire playbook in the middle of the season with a QB with almost no experience and a poor work ethic?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:45 am
VT Raider, Ive read every single comment of yours tonight, and I’m sorry, you’ve not made one convincing argument that Cable is better than Gruden outside of your own personal opinion. Gruden has a good record to speak for. Cable has a record of being a whistle blower who rides a sled.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:46 am
Gruden builds old teams
Gruden doesn’t get along with younger players (esp QB)
Gruden burns out himself and his players burnout from his message.
These have been mentioned multiple times here.
Madden, what’ your opinion?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:46 am
MR how do I know Oak trolls you? I saw him refer to one of his own posts yesterday using your name as he forgot to change his indentity back from MR.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:47 am
RaiderNation, again, it’s about getting the best available. Gruden has a good record. Cable is an offensive line coach from Idaho. This is no time for experiments. But evidently, Al thought it was. The sled driving, whistle blowing line coach, armed with nothing more than Kiffin’s playbook, is our guy. Meanwhile, a super bowl winner with a winning overall career percentage was looked over. Not smart general management. But then again, we’re talking about Al davis, here.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:48 am
MR why I am insane?
Because I don’t agree with you? You sound like BHP now…tsk tsk
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:49 am
Who cares if he builds old teams? As long as they win. That last old team Gruden built here went to a Super Bowl, and would have won had Al Davis not traded him to the team we played…
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:50 am
What about Brian Billick. Would you want him as a coach?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:50 am
Slash, you’re insane because you’re acting insane. You are. Just calling it as I see it.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:50 am
By the way, I do think Gruden is a good coach. He’s most likely a better coach than Cable right now.
But I just feel that we have a better chance of avoiding drama, dysfunction and b.s. so we can focus on the field and win.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:51 am
I’ll agree with you there. I do believe we could have won had he not left. Man, if coach would’ve put me in the 4th quarter. Things would’ve been different, we would’ve been state champs.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:51 am
I’d definitely take Billick over Cable. Absolutely. Go ahead and demonstrate to me just how Tom Cable is a better coach than Brian Billick. I hope you realize Billick has won a Super Bowl.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:52 am
“The wisest man is deemed insane”
Victim or the Crime-
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:52 am
While not a big fan, I think Billick would be a better choice than Gruden to coach this group of players.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:52 am
Slash, we’re going to lose under Cable. That’s going to cause drama, dysfunction, and b.s., no matter what. We’re already at drama, dysfunction, and b.s. Remember, Cable is just the guy Davis settled on after scapegoating Kiffin. Cable is part and parcel of all the drama and b.s.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:53 am
That’s a fair point, VT. Gruden or Billick would be fine by me. And, they were both available. Thank you for bringing up yet another squandered opportunity by Al Davis. Who needs an assistant when I have you. Any more f’k ups on Al’s part you want to throw my way?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:54 am
Madden, if the Raiders could win it all next year and then the next 5 years be.500, would you take that deal?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:56 am
I was never arguing that Gruden wasn’t a good coach, Madden. I am arguing that this group of players is better off with Cable. Billick, while hating him, would have been an excellent choice. But I am 100% happy with Cable.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:57 am
VT Raider, absolutely. A Super Bowl victory would be huge. And 5 ensuing mediocre seasons would be worth the price of admission. When you’ve sucked for this long, a Super Bowl victory would be a cure all. But we wouldn’t suck for 5 years after winning a Super Bowl. Whoever built that SB team (obviously not Al Davis), wouldn’t let it happen. But then again, Al would probably trade him.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:58 am
So when Gruden was hired as the youngest HC in the NFL the Raiders should have hired someone else? What made him the right choice with ZERO HC experiance at ANY LEVEL?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:58 am
VT Raider, I understand that what you’re arguing, and you’re wrong. Cable is not better off for this group of players. Cable is going to do whatever Al tell him to do. These players need a coach, rather they like the coach personally or not. With Cable, they just have a cheerleader. An ugly one, at that.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:01 am
951, that was a different time. We were coming off of one horrible year, preceded by a couple of .500 yearsr. After 6 seasons in the tank, it’s no time to take chances with a rube from Idaho when Jon Gruden’s available.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:02 am
I guess we will have to agree to disagree then. While I want a Raiders Superbowl to share with my kids (my oldest was born the year they lost to TB, glad he can’t remember it), I want sustained success. I want years of domination. I want the Raiduhs to be built around a young nucleus and just the right pieces thrown in every year to sustain success. The Patriots have been doing it for most of this decade, the Steelers too. After this mess we need lots of success.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:04 am
The goal in the NFL is not sustained success, VT Raider. It’s winning a Super Bowl. At least it should be. With Al Davis, you get neither. That’s why we needed a coach like Gruden.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:06 am
Teams with sustained success are trying to win a Super Bowl. The end result is their sustained success. Any team just merely trying to compete is bound to lose. Maybe that’s whats’ been Al’s problem all of these years. He just wants to win 9 games? Well, he falls about 4 or 5 short of his goal, year after year. That’s why we need someone with larger goals.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:08 am
Again, that’s your opinion, or maybe your preference for how to build a team. My preference is to post a winning season every year, to be in contention every year.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:09 am
That is B.S. Anytime you hire a new coach the same thought process should go into the decision.
This team needs a strong leader who can manage a game. Cable struggled last year, but so did Gruden.
I’m not thrilled that the Raiders have had a 24-72 record since the Gruden/Allen team was dismantled after he out coached butterball bill in the SB. But I don’t think the Raiders would be any better off with Gruden as the HC going into this season then they are with Cable. Al is still calling the shots.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:17 am
Let’s beat the Chargers before we set our sights on the Super Bowl.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:19 am
Maybe Borschetti can light a fire under turdell and kelly and play some DE on the goaline.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:21 am
Boschetti plays hard and made ONE key block on special teams. BFD. Let’s not get too excited.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:22 am
After 6 months of hell, the sun is shining in Copenhagen.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:25 am
NMF…maybe he could take over as DE for Jay Richards after we move him to MLB? ha ha
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:32 am
No one is saying he will be Reggie White but anything to get Turdel and Kelly working hard, with what kelly is getting paid He might not want to get outplayed in camp by a practice squad player.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:56 am
Good Morning NATION!!! =)
April 2nd, 2009 at 5:25 am
We need guys named Vinny and Guido as D linemen.
Not guys named Tommy and Ryan.
April 2nd, 2009 at 5:48 am
LMN… I was about ready to tell them to exchange phone numbers so they could continue the argument someplace else. It’s like listening to your upstairs neighbors when they’re having a fight. You wish one of them would just shut the hell up.
And to top it off, the stupid argument was about freakin’ Gruden, for crying out loud.
April 2nd, 2009 at 5:55 am
Maybe Gruden will get a job at a high-profile college and have a lot of success. The we can start talking about him coming back to Oakland again.
Won’t that be fun?
April 2nd, 2009 at 5:57 am
Good Morning Raider Nation without the TROLLS.
Boschetti = “Rudy” LOL
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:00 am
im starting to think trading down and picking up REY mauluaga is looking realy good, trading with the eagles we have a chance of getting Rey and heward bey what do you think of this trade.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:06 am
Never heard of the guy, but who would not love the fighting spirit of “Rudy” to raise the level of competition on the “D” line. Actually I prefer a self motivated starter that is talented enough to break the starting lineup.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:10 am
Andre Smith at #7, Brace at DT in 2nd round, Brinkley in the 3rd at MLB and SS in the 4th.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:11 am
Edward teach…
true, and n the previous thread they were debating if ekujuiba or Ricky brown should start, all here with some wit knows none of them are starting material…
debating that Morrison isnt a MLB, we all know he isnt…
debating that OO might not be ready and we should get lorenzo or any FA FB… but those debating that topic was against leonard Weaver, when I suggested him over a month ago..
then the gruden/kiffin/cable thing…
man its getting rather tedious :/
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:14 am
# r8dr4lfe Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:00 am
im starting to think trading down and picking up REY mauluaga is looking realy good, trading with the eagles we have a chance of getting Rey and heward bey what do you think of this trade.
__________________________________________________________
you like players with an IQ around he 70s? its just above a person with Downs… Bey, Ray and Barden shouldnt be touched before 3rd round, they would sign their contract as Homer does…
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:15 am
I keep hearing the talk about trading down with the Eagles, and I understand why it makes sense for the Raiders, but why and/or who would the Eagles want at #7 that would make them want to make the deal? Anyone have any thoughts?
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:15 am
# Mad Road Dog Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:10 am
Andre Smith at #7, Brace at DT in 2nd round, Brinkley in the 3rd at MLB and SS in the 4th.
_________________________________________________________
Like it a lot, though my man Robiskie in 2nd is still something im cheering for…
Trade Burgess, Walter and Fargas for 2nd, then we could get’em all =) not likely though =) LOL
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:17 am
Taber…
I totally agree, why would/should the eagles help out the raiders??
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:21 am
I just don’t see them moving, unless they really want Raji. But there’s a lot of value late in Rnd 1, I think it’s a pipe dream for the Raiders.
The more I think about it, the more I’m convinced despite everything that the pick at 7 is Crabtree, which is risky, because high 1st round WR’s tend to take time to develop if they develop at all, ie Charlie Rogers, Mike Williams, etc.
But I’ve got a feeling that will be the reality. And I’m not sure that Raji will be anything more than this year’s Dorsey.
If it were up to me, I would have to pick Andre Smith @ 7, I have to believe he’s the safest pick to make the immediate impact the Raiders need, but his Combine performance is still a HUGE red flag! Who show’s up for the biggest day of his life, with millions on the line and is out of shape!?! What does that say about his character, or even his common sense??
The 7 pick is a true crap shoot.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:22 am
Yes yes I know I’m late as well as a little unkown but I vowed as well to never post again untill uncle Jerry fixed the Regi!!!! SO morning Nation…..Please Al let Cable Draft a Lineman if Crabbs dosn’t fall to us…Maclin is good very good and fast but he is or seems to me to be a Ted Ginn type…..You know the focal point of a high powered college ofense who had as many punt/kick return yards as reception yards….That just isnt as good in the NFL…So please Mr. Davis lets do this thing right!!! Love the off-season so far!!!
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:22 am
Trolls 35 Raiders 0…
how do you keep score? how does it work? how will it be Trolls 36, Raiders 0… or how will it be Trolls 35, Raiders 1??
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:23 am
Taber Corn… I suggested the trade with the Eagles a long time ago, well before it became a topic here (it was before the final draft order came out, and at that point Philly was sitting about 17th and 25th or so). I thought that they might trade up if they coveted somebody like Crabtree (I also suggested Michael Johnson, but it looks now as if he will be available well after 7th overall).
I have thought about it a fair amount since, and if I were them I would stay put and use both picks. There are guys that will help them that will be available when they pick, and two potential starters is better than one if you can get your guys.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:30 am
And what about the Safety position!?! We are seriously lacking in that department. I suppose Huff is going to get one more opportunity at FS, but after that who is in line.
Safety is a scary position for us, right now I guess it’s going to be Huff and Branch back there, with not much else after that.
That is something we need to address, with Gonzales and Gates to deal with we need a safety that can take care of business, and I haven’t heard a thing about that.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:31 am
Draft Mack
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:34 am
If the Raiders are set on drafting a WR then I hope they pass on Crabtree and Maclin and grab Barden either in the third if they think he will last till then. if not, I am not opposed to grabbing him in the 2nd.
Ideally I would like to see them grab DE Michael Johnson with their 1st round pick. This kid is a beast.
If you haven’t seen Johnson play, check him out
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzKWDGf5-Hc
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:35 am
wow. the Raiders have been all over Penn State wide receiver Derrick Williams and Cal Poly wide receiver Ramses Barden.
that shows we’re looking for a WR in the draft. S&B and others seemed to think that Walker, Higgins, Schilens, Shields and Watkins was a good enough WR corps for Russell. Obviously the coaching staff doesn’t feel the same way (and for good reason!)
Sam Williams replaces Marquis Cooper (RIP) and DT Ryan Boschetti is a Tom Cable favorite. He has a good chance to beat Sands or Joseph out of a roster spot.
We continue to fix every area of need besides WR and SS. Cable also stresses that we need to cement the o-line, even in his most recent interview. Wouldn’t surprise me if our first 3 picks were A. Smith, Barden and the best available SS.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:38 am
Can A. Smith play right tackle? Has he got any experience there?
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:39 am
why Penn State wide receiver Derrick Williams?
he’s only 5′11″ 197 lbs
projected 2nd or 3rd round pick (like Barden)
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:42 am
good morning LMN, 4eva, ed teach, NMF …
where are Dirt Lot & Hwnrdr?
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:46 am
RockStar… none of those first three picks would surprise me at all, and I would be happy about a draft like that.
I watched some youtube stuff on Barden. He’s very impressive when it comes to catching fade patterns and seems very physical, outfighting DBs for the ball and so forth. The only thing that concerned me a little was the fact that he seemed to be very well-covered most of the time. I don’t know if that speaks to a lack of ability to separate or not because it’s not like I was looking at a whole year or two of game film, but he wasn’t exactly going up against the best corners in the business playing at Cal Poly, and if he could be that well-covered at that level I’m not sure how it translates to the NFL. It was, though, just a snapshot and maybe it’s nothing.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:50 am
LMN what is Pumping Station Day??? Is it also observed on the same day as Windmill Day???
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:55 am
Can A. Smith play right tackle? Has he got any experience there?
***
He played LT at Alabama
Considered the best run blocker in college football of the past five years, some experts described him as possibly the most dominating offensive lineman to enter college football since Orlando Pace. I’d say he could play RT, since you always want your mauler and run blocking beast at RT. But why draft a Rt as high as 7th overall? Thats a big time reach imo
to draft Andre Smith in the TOP 10, you’ve got to think he’s your LT for the next 10 years
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:09 am
Ed Teach, here’s what I found on Barden:
Ramses Barden ran the 40 in 4.51 seconds at his school’s pro day , slightly improving on his 4.57 from the Combine, a number that got him noticed. Some feel that his speed will keep him from getting any distance between jet-fueled NFL cornerbacks, hurting his draft standing.
His route running is a little raw too, but with good coaching, the kind of coaching that can really get a guy motivated, that can be improved. The beauty of Barden’s draft prospects is that he could easily be a third round pick and give a team a low-risk player should he take time to develop.
***
words or phrases like: “develop” , “raw” , “needs coaching & motivation” “won’t get seperation from NFL db’s”
scares me away
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:09 am
LMN why are you so cocky and salty today, son?
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:12 am
Damn im ready for the draft you know big al got something up his sleeve.
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:16 am
RockStar… yep, that’s pretty much what was on youtube. I’m not as worried about his speed as his ability to get open, but if that can be addressed you’ve got to like his size and physicality. He is obviously very strong, and agressive as well.
We could use a red zone threat. Hard to say if he’s the guy, but he seems to have the tools. I just worry that he may be too much of a project to take that high.
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:17 am
BS: LMN is a cool guy unless you start talking trash about where he’s from
plus he (like the rest of us) hates trolls
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:19 am
I just worry that he may be too much of a project to take that high.
***
I agree. He reminds me of Mike Williams from USC
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:22 am
could be the next Harold Carmicheal
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:29 am
if we’re looking for an impact player in Round 2 we should set our sights on Ron Brace.
no WR outside of Crabtree or possibly Maclin can help this football team …
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:31 am
4eva… If we draft him I hope he’s the next Harold Carmichael. If someone else drafts him I hope he’s the next Mike Williams.
Unless we get him off the waiver wire later. Then I hope he’s the next Harold Carmichael, the version that got off to a rough start.
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:32 am
Raider…I never talk trash about the Kingdom of Denmark, as I live there as well ha ha. And I never troll.
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:33 am
Good morning…
Over 600 posts the day registration started and it was a slow news day, that’s good for the users and for Jerry.
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:35 am
well then Baby Slash,what is Pumping Station Day???
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:36 am
I was thinking the same thing yesterday, Bob. So much for registration cutting down the amount of traffic in here; seems like more people are willing to post now that there’s at least some attempt to keep the idiots at bay.
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:37 am
so much 4 those that said the blog would not have any posters if registration started
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:41 am
4EVA..never heard of pumping station day. Maybe LMN is going to the Pump House, a music club here?
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:41 am
Slow news day?
Not if your a Denver Donkey fan.
Last year it was Favre all the time, this year we have Cutlery on every day.
Does Denver claim the most dysfunctional team in the west?
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:41 am
Ramses Barden, Kenny Britt, Heyward-Bey, Robiskie…in the 2nd.
Patrick Turner, Demetrius Byrd, Massaqoui, Dominique Edison…in the 4th.
I probably missed a couple of guys.
There is some value later on, they must really like Crabtree or Maclin to take either at 7th, I don’t think I would, as of now, still undecided after 2 months.
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:44 am
Cutler is dysfunctional in any case. It must be low blood sugar
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:45 am
what happened to the Jesper Brinkley bandwagon? Where is Florida Pete?
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:48 am
BabySlash,I was watching “who wants 2B a millionaire” and the question was which country celebrates WindMill Day and Pumping Station Day.I’m always interested in different countries customs and I pretty much could figure out WindMill Day but Pumping Station Day not so much.And Lmn is a good poster who is always willing and ready 2 share his info =)
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:48 am
Does anybody else get the feeling that we’re building our O and D line with scrubs?
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:49 am
4EVA ..oh now I get it. It sounds like the Netherlands!
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:49 am
Later..
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:51 am
Morning Nation!!
Tomorrow Jim Fassel goes around locally to promote the new UFL league, and his team out here in Las Vegas. He is telling people, reportedly, that he was offered the Raiders HC position and he turned it down.
I am interested to hear the rationale on that one.
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:52 am
Cutler is coming out of this looking like an idiot. It’s not over yet tho…I can’t see the Donks REALLY wanting him gone unless they got soemthing good on the burner…
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:55 am
Vegas,
Heck, why wouldn’t Fassel lie about the Raiders’ job? The Raiders lie about that kind of stuff all the time.
No really, we never offered him the job! He didn’t even interview…heck, we have never heard of him before!!!
Riiiiight. lol
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:56 am
BabySlash Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:48 am
Does anybody else get the feeling that we’re building our O and D line with scrubs?
I think Cable is going about it the right way ie;O-linemen NEED 2 learn many plays,so it makes sence 2 me 2 get young,experienced O-linemen.Man Satelle already has 32 seasonal AND 1 play-off game under his belt.I still want Mack but with Cables direction on y oung&ex. O-men we are prolly gonna draft DEFENCE,imo
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:57 am
SnB,
Sorry man, looks like this signing takes us out of the running for Raji!!! Can’t carry that many DTs!!!
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:00 am
Dakota,
I guess it takes two to tango!!
I guess he really needs to “sell” this new league, so saying he turned down a NFL job to coach in the UFL is part of the pitch.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:01 am
The one and only is here. Let’s win!
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:02 am
Big AL’s Goon here, BAG for registration purposes.
No WR’s from the Pac-10. There’s not one WR from the Pac-10 in the top 20 of NFL WR’s.
Infact Big AL needs to chill on the west coast players period. We need more football players from the SEC.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:04 am
draft andre smith
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:06 am
Boschetti is nothing but camp fodder. We still need a real DT and a bonified starting DE. The DL is incomplete and without greatly improving the DL stopping the run will continue to be a major issue.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:07 am
NoLuv4Hoes Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:04 am
draft andre smith
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Crank Smoker had a catchy ring to it, sorry you changed your moniker.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:08 am
BAG,
There isn’t an SEC receiver in the top 15 either. A couple from the Big 10, a few from the U and a bunch of small schools.
I think a few teams are upset they passed on last year’s top Pac-10 receiver, Desean Jackson.
I agree on the SEC and defensive players. There are on a whole another level down there on D.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:09 am
1st pick Andre “The Giant” Smith
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:10 am
altho I would still LOVE 2 load-up on O-line in the draft.This seems 2B the year
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:11 am
Raider Dell i only changed it because NoLuv4Hoes was my original moniker. Feel free to use Crank Smoker if you want.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:13 am
Round 1 – Andre Smith
Round 2 – Ron Brace
Round 3 – Best avail LB/DE/S
Rounds 4 and 7 – Al Davis projects
Al, just say no to Crabtree or Maclin in round 1.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:13 am
To continue turning this team around the #7 pick should be used for defense. We have so many holes to be filled on defense that it really can’t or shouldn’t be ignored. We need a least on DT, a DE, a LBer, and two safeties. Unless Crabtree can be an ironman and go both ways playing WR on O and stopping the run on D, we don’t NEED him. We NEED defense in the worst way.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:17 am
i say this year they should select a Lt. who knows if next years draft will have so many great Lt prospects in the 1st round? wait till next year to draft a 1st round wr or take a look at ocho cinco. Almost every year we draft the flashy pick in the 1st rd why can’t we draft for need this year??
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 am
Knowing how bad West Coast teams did last year when playing in the Eastern time zone, coupled with the Raiders not leaving the western time zone once during pre-season and week 1, it will be interesting which East Coast road game will come first.
I’m hoping for the Browns or Chiefs (not quite EST but close enough). If it is Pittsburgh or the NYG we might get pounded, even worse than we probably were going to get.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 am
1st Pick Andre “The Giant” Smith
2nd The Lakers win championship
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:19 am
NoLuv4Hoes Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:11 am
Raider Dell i only changed it because NoLuv4Hoes was my original moniker. Feel free to use Crank Smoker if you want.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Your a Raider brethren and I will respect your wishes for your old but new name.
Also I agree, Andre Smith would be agood choice.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:20 am
Dakota
Good morning, are you here or in another cyberspace.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:24 am
Dell,
I just got back from the dentist, so I am not sure where I am right now…I just know I can’t answer my office phone without biting my tongue.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:27 am
Dakota
Dentist office visit, equals pain later. I hope you have some pain meds for the later.
Make sure you have a drool cloth near by.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:28 am
I’m sure Big Al will let Dakota borrow a drool rag =)
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:29 am
I have a stack of Shamwows on standby…and my tongue hurts…how ironic given the Shamwow guys predicament.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:29 am
Dakota
How did you fare on the tax return?
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:33 am
LOL …
Registration?
How long has this been here? Has it helped at all?
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:33 am
Jerry Mac & David White got this info quickly.
Jason Jones & Raider Beat fell asleep!
Jerry Mac must feel obligated to give more frequent updates and quality work since the registration has brought on more quality posters and post replies
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:34 am
Registration?
How long has this been here? Has it helped at all?
***
Jhill: much to my surprise … yes!
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:37 am
Dakota Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:29 am
I have a stack of Shamwows on standby…and my tongue hurts…how ironic given the Shamwow guys predicament.
******************************
The lesson here, as always, is don’t kiss a hooker!!
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:39 am
Please Al let Cable Draft a Lineman if Crabbs dosn’t fall to us…Maclin is good very good and fast but he is or seems to me to be a Ted Ginn type…..
***
well said OAKlifer. couldn’t agree more
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:40 am
Raider Dell Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:29 am
Dakota
How did you fare on the tax return?
______________________________________
It hurt as always.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:42 am
The donkos want two first round picks for Cutlery and he doesn’t have a winning record as a strating QB.
Let’s see who is real desperate. If no trade is made in the next two weeks I’m sure the price goes down, there is no way Cutlery is in a Denver uniform again.
Later guys, appointment time.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:42 am
I’m not sure that Raji will be anything more than this year’s Dorsey.
If it were up to me, I would have to pick Andre Smith @ 7, I have to believe he’s the safest pick to make the immediate impact the Raiders need
***
good points Taber Corn.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:44 am
I see we signed another DT … Has S&B been around? Is he still pumping up Raji? We now have 5 DTs plus the hispanic cat that was on the practice squad.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:45 am
JWiggle in the Hooooouse.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:46 am
Mauricio Lopez
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:48 am
The Redskins are the leading team to land Jay Cutler at this point.
They are currently shopping Jason Campbell for a 2nd round pick.
Campbell threw for 3245 yards and 13 TD’s last year. Also had 258 rushing yards and a score on the ground.
not bad considering Portis and Betts combined for 1700 rushing yards and 10 TD’s last year!
thats better than the Fargas, Bush, DMC trio we had last year and Russell only had 2400 passing yards
I guess it helps having receivers, huh?
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:48 am
I’m still thinking we may see some draft day trades. My canidates are Huff, Burgess, and ……. yes Michael Bush.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:49 am
LOL …
Top of the morning Dakota!
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:49 am
Has S&B been around? Is he still pumping up Raji?
***
every day the last 4 months!
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:52 am
Curry to KC round 1 if he is still on the board…no doubt about it.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:52 am
And you know I’ll be here on draft day Dakota, so we’ll just see about that KC pick. And like I’ve argued before, tell me who St Louis has that will stop them from taking Crabtree? He may not even be there for KC to draft, but I still say they won’t go OLB.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:55 am
And like I said before Wiggles…even if Crabtree is on the board at #3, no way KC takes him.
I can’t wait for draft day!!!
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:55 am
man I wouldnt trade any of our RB’s Long Live Cerberus!!!
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:56 am
It looks like our first 4 rounds are going to be, in no particular order, DE, S, WR, LB.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:56 am
Oh, and the Rams will take Smith if Detroit takes Stafford, or Monroe of Detroit takes Smith.
No doubt.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:56 am
If we want to follow the “model” franchise right now, the Pittsburgh Steelers, they haven’t taken an O-lineman in the first 2 rounds in six years. In the last ten years, they have taken two O-lineman (who aren’t on the team anymore) and 5 WR’s in the first two rounds.
Bet you wouldn’t have thought that.
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:59 am
La Milicia Negra Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:22 am
Trolls 35 Raiders 0…
how do you keep score? how does it work? how will it be Trolls 36, Raiders 0… or how will it be Trolls 35, Raiders 1??
LMN this is American football not European football
Before the registration I could add 7 points to my score, 6 for a TD and 1 for a PAT.
Once I got to 98 I would start giving the Raiders a minus in increments of 7 (same concept) 
If another poster would get me angry I would go for the 2 point conversion. 
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:59 am
how many D-linemen have they taken Vegas???
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:01 am
Jhill: remember the d-line Steve Spag built in NY?
Adam Carriker is a natural DE, who has been playing DT
other DT’s on the roster: Antwon Burton, Clifton Ryan & Willie Williams. you might ask yourself “who?”
Leonard Little is older than dirt. I can see Carriker being moved to DE and replacing him.
STL could draft Raji or Orakpo. Their o-line is also in shambles besides maybe C Jason Brown and OT Alex Barron.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:02 am
KC has Gonzales on the block. You’re telling me that Bowe is enough of a weapon for Pioli’s prized Matt Cassell, that he can pass on the best player in the draft?
What happened to taking the best player on the board at a position you need?
OLB – Vrable and Johnson
WR – Bowe and …….
And who do you think Todd Haley wants?
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:05 am
The Raiders draft needs are really starting to take shape, but the 6 picks before us are getting as unclear as ever. I am thinking that the Raiders entire draft will unfold based on who is available when they pick at #7.
Monroe, Crabtree, Oher, Raji, Maclin and Orakpo seem like the likely candidates:
1. Monroe or Oher OT 1. Crabtree or Maclin WR
2. Michael Johnson DE 2. Jarron Gilbert DE
3. Derrick Williams WR 3. Lydon Murtha OT
4. Corvey Irvin DT 4. Jason Phillips LB
7. Frank Summers FB 7. Tripp Chandler TE
1. Busari Raji DT 1. Brian Orakpo DE
2. Ramses Barden WR 2. Jamon Meredith OT
3. Chip Vaughn SS 3. Chris Baker DE
4. Xavier Fulton OG 4. Mohamed Massaquoi WR
7. Pannel Egboh DE 7. Terence Moore SS
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:06 am
3 straight years of 1st round DE picks for St Louis?
I wonder if they would get bashed the same way Det did for taking all those WRs.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:06 am
Steve Spags is also probably looking at DE’s James Hall, Victor Adeyanju, and CJ Ah You singing that Beyonce song “lemme upgrade ya”
outside of Chris Long and Carriker (who is a bust at DT) they got nobody on the d-line, which was his bread & butter in New York. get pressure and create turnovers. remember?
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:06 am
Todd Haley is not in charge in KC, Scott PieHole is, and we know where he learned the business. He would never pass on a LB like Curry for a WR like Crabtree. PieHole and his mentor treat SB MVP WRs like dirt.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:06 am
4eva,
2 D-lineman and 3 LB’s in the last 10 drafts in the first two rounds (19 picks in all) per wiki. They have taken more WR’s than any other position (Sweed, Plax, Holmes, Troy Edwards (huge bust) and Randle-El).
5 WR’s over 19 picks equals one every other year. When’s the last time we used a 1st or 2nd on a WR? Porter? Kind of caught up to us didn’t it?
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:11 am
yep,thankx Vegas
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:13 am
Carriker (who is a bust at DT)
————————————————-
Carriker was a bust at DE before he was a bust at DT, lol. Remember we had this debate last year during the draft as I was sure they wouldn’t take C. Long b/c they had just drafted Carriker the year before at DE.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:15 am
Bill Belly was in charge in New England. He was also the HC.
Todd Haley is the HC in KC, but will not be in charge of building a football team. Thats why the owner paid Pioli the big bucks.
otherwise Carl Peterson would have stayed at GM and Mike Shanahan would have been hired as HC
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 am
Right Vegas,
The Steelers are smart, they draft WRs where they belong, at the end of the first round or in the second and third rounds.
A WR better be damned special to be a top ten pick. Is Crabtree really that special?
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 am
That is huge speculation to think that Haley has no input as to who the 1st rnd pick would be.
And they talk bad about Al Davis.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:17 am
Nice! Now there is a registration! I bet there is a lot of broken hearted trolls out there. LMFAO!! This place got so stupid with trolls that I haven’t even been in here in like a week. I look forward to some good Raider talk without the immature little brats pretending to be somebody else. IT’S ABOUT TIME JERRY! But, better late than never I suppose…
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:18 am
Haley can make all the SUGGESTIONS he wants, but PieHole is in charge in KC, not Haley. You know that is true Jhill.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:20 am
Seriously I am not happy with Satele, I think we still need a Center.
Why did Parcells give up on him and let him go like that?
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:20 am
Carriker was a bust at DE before he was a bust at DT
***
they never tried Carriker at DE.
they started Little & Hall at DE before they drafted Long. Carriker & La Roi Glover were the starting DT’s all 16 games the past 2 years
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:22 am
Dakota Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:16 am
Right Vegas,
The Steelers are smart, they draft WRs where they belong, at the end of the first round or in the second and third rounds.
A WR better be damned special to be a top ten pick. Is Crabtree really that special?
***********************************
That’s the question, is he worth #7. Twice they did take a WR in the top 10 (plax and edwards). I just like the fact that the Steelers have picked a WR in the first two rounds 5 times the last ten years. Shows how important the position really is.
5 WR’s and one O-lineman the last ten years in the draft, and two Super Bowl wins and 4 Championship games over the same time period. Seems to be the way to do things.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:23 am
If I believe everything I read about how our front office should be run, then Haley should definitely have some loud input as to who the pick should be.
Pioli is definitely in charge, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he won’t pick the guy that his head coach wants.
Pioli hired and offensive guy, not a defensive coach. Belichik is a defensive minded head coach, so Pioli drafting defesive players in NE is no surprise.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:25 am
I think Satele can work out in our scheme, just how much smaller/stronger is he than grove? At least he is durable…
Even though we have 4 dts I would still give Raji a look..he’s a guy that could help free up kelly…
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:26 am
What do you guys think of the possibility of Brady Quinn possibly landing with the Donkeys through a 3 way trade?
It would be interesting to see how much more competitive Russell and Quinn become because of it. They both were the top QBs of the 07 draft and there would be the whole division rivalry.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:27 am
Pioli hired and offensive guy, not a defensive coach. Belichik is a defensive minded head coach, so Pioli drafting defesive players in NE is no surprise.
***
good point Jhill. they could also draft an OT
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:27 am
Carriker was a DE at Nebrasks who has a good combine, right? Ran the 40 in the 4 something range? I know on draft day, he was a DE. If he couldn’t even make it out of training camp before they gave up on him as a DE, then bust I say. LOL!
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:29 am
Good morning Nation.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:35 am
Carriker was advertised as having the size and skill to play any position on the d-line when he was drafted, kind of like this Ryan Boschetti guy we just acquired. He was a hard working blue collar guy with a non stop motor. The Rams put him to use at their biggest weakness – DT. Obviously this didn’t work out. Kind of like Rob Ryan trying to make Michael Huff play SS.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:35 am
Carson Palmer, Matt Cassell, Lendale White, Reggie Bush, Justin Fargas, Steve Smith, Dominique Byrd, Sam Baker, Troy Palamalu, Lofa Tutupu, Rey Maualuga, Brian Cushing, Clay Matthews….
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:35 am
morning Raider O
how’s it going brother?
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:37 am
The positions that “concern” me the most right now are DE and S. Not to say that those are the only two, but I’d argue that each of those positions could merit the #7 pick.
Safety – Eugene and Branch. Is Huff still in the dog house, or is he going to start? If he’s in the dog house still, or on the trading block, are you REALLY comfortable with Eugene?
DE – Burgess and Scott? Is Scott a starter? Will Burgess stay healthy?
If we don’t shore up those 2 spots, our 3rd down defense will not be any better.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:45 am
Voldemort Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:17 am
Nice! Now there is a registration! I bet there is a lot of broken hearted trolls out there. LMFAO!!
E-X-C-U-S-E M-E I am a very happy hearted troll ♥
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:47 am
I feel like there are elite LB’s, OT’s, DE’s, and if Crabtree is available Wr @ #7 which are all areas of need and not to much a reach. Since we’ve spent to improve the OL in the offseason we probably won’t go OT so to me it’s between LB, WR and DE and I don’t think Al is sold on the WR’s available. Al loves SC and loves freaks like Orakpo, Brown, Johnson, and Maybin but he also loves the De’s he’s drafted Richardson, and Scott so I say Al goes LB
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:52 am
Sam Williams survives another year. Somewhere James Jett is shaking his head.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:55 am
Sam Williams is a good man and a core special teams player. As long as he’s not starting at OLB i’m fine with him on the team for depth
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 am
Over/under on how many games it’s going to take for Williams to end up injured?
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:58 am
I say Al goes LB
***
We resigned Brown, Alston, Williams, Ekejiuba and Condo this offseason – all of which play LB and special teams. I don’t see a LB in the mix unless it’s maybe a 4th or 7th rounder.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:58 am
Good morning crew….day off, havin a beer.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:58 am
Carson Palmer, injury proned
Matt Cassell, time will tell, but probably not more than career back-up
Lendale White, no heart or dedication, always out of shape
Reggie Bush, over rated, injury proned, Houston got the best of that draft
Justin Fargas, has the heart and desire, just too fragile
Steve Smith, put aside the head-case and hes is an elite player
Dominique Byrd, Who?
Sam Baker, overrated
Troy Palamalu, the cream of the crop
Lofa Tutupu, steady and dependable
Rey Maualuga, should be a great one
Brian Cushing, could be a great one
Clay Matthews…. could be a great one as well if anything like the old man will be steady and dependable
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 am
I like the signing of Boschetti – good character, big effort, big engine. Although he will never be more than a back-up and a special teams contributor.
I still don’t understand how we can afford, as many of you want, us to draft BJ Raji unless we cut Tommy Kelly. Our 3 DTs cost $22.2m in salaries in 2008. A quick check on the Fox salary charts suggests that, if you add Josephs basic, we had one of the most expensive DT corp in the league. Kelly is the second highest earner, behind JR, on this roster. How can we justify a No7 pick salary for the same position.
I can’t believe Raji will be drafted unless Kelly is cut or traded.
April 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 am
Hmmm, it seems that this reg thing has ameliorated much of the mayhem. A year late in arriving but what the hey.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:00 am
S&B won’t like this.
Mel Kiper Jr. has Tyson Jackson going to the Chargers at #16
saw it just this morning on SportsCenter
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:01 am
Unsure it matters to any of you but I have a huge contact in Santa Clara,..the highest ranking official,…known her for decades actually,…I grew up in Santa Clara,…she sent me a note to inform me the Niners will have a new stadium there within a few years, they just got financing,…the Raiders need to step up and make some news of their own regarding a new stadium.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:01 am
We resigned Brown, Alston, Williams, Ekejiuba and Condo this offseason
——————————————————
These guys are for the most part ST’rs, and none of them should prevent us from trying to get another bona fide OLB.
Although I have wondered why Ekejiuba hasn’t been able to translate his dominant STs play to the OLB position. Alston was all over the place last year, in a good way.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:02 am
As I told brien yesterday via text, the Raiders should draft Rey at 7,..dont gamble and trade down and hope hes there at 12 or so,..take him at 7 and pay him,…hes exactly what we need.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:02 am
Rockstar,
Thanks brother… I just think Maclin is not 7th pick material….raji…no too much hype He would be good but we already have a medicore group of DT’s no sense in having another overpaid one and thats what Raji would be at 7 overpaid….. would love to see the combine beast Curry fall but he wont…So I say lets do it uncle AL lets trade that pick if we cant get Crabbs or Curry to fall or maybe if were serious trade up…”no cap mpney????” to trade down and snag some quality linemen to throw in the rotation…we can get another Turd…or Higgins in later rounds no need to reach…
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:02 am
Rockstar,
A lot better this morning, I couldn’t log in yesterday. What to you think of the 2 new signings?
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:03 am
Sam Williams is the new Grant Irons. Expanding the limits of unproductivity.
Good guy or not, he needs to be cut so new talent can develop. Williams has no upside left, and his downside is all too familiar (ala Ron Curry).
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:03 am
Norco, there are reports on this side of the Atlantic that the owner of the ‘A’s is trying to sell the franchise to another city.
Is that true and, if so, could the Raiders then be free to redevelop the McAfee?
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:05 am
I agree Rockstar. With this many LBs on the roster, I don’t see us drafting one high, or even in later rounds like JB.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 am
Scottish Raider : I agree. Davis traded for Gerard Warren, gave Sands starter money, made Kelly the highest paid DT in football and took a flyer on former 1st rounder William Joseph. Where does Raji fit in?
Boschetti will be good depth and might push Sands or Joseph off the roster depending on if he outworks and outplays them. We already know he’s going to give us 100 percent and be useful on ST …
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 am
Scottish, you may need to broaden your mind and consider that Marshall may move Kelly back to DE, at least on running downs. Our DEs were the weak spot in our run D, IMO. Plus, the DTs rotate to stay fresh so there is definately room for Raji to fit in.
And did you factor Kelly’s restructuring into that $22m?
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 am
Gotta run,..grabbin a 12 pack and headin to the pool…cya….corona on sale at raleys.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 am
Hey Norco Bob Brother!!! I think I’ll have a beer 2 =)
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 am
Well scotty, thats what I really want, stay in current location,…cya, the beers waiting.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 am
4eva,..brien called me and said you were joining us this year?…great bro…we got you covered, just gotta get here. cya!
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:12 am
The talk here about the draft has been going on so long that I completely disregarded the fact that the draft actually will exist and is not just some Quixotic mass mirage.
In just a few weeks there’ll be a coupla newly rich fat kids, Andre and BJ, a coupla newly anointed QB saviors Sanchez and Stafford, a coupla “he’s the guy we wanted all a long” WRs getting way too much money and umpteen needle in the haystack/diamond in the rough picks who’ll eventually perform to pro bowl standards while some of their highly hyped and endlessly touted collegiate brethren are swept together into the NFL’s dustbin of failure.
Are ya ready for some crapshooting or what?
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:12 am
Rockstar, I am staggered that the Raiders never tried to make Kelly restructure his contract. They succeeded with Walker, failed with Wilson but didn’t seem to even try negotiating with Kelly.
Kelly is on $14m per season. Just ridiculous. If Kelly was cut or dealt, then I would join the pro-Raji brigade. If not, then it makes absolutely no sense to take another expensive DT.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:12 am
When are we going to stop getting Cast Offs that play D line. TK, Burgess, Sands, and Warren are all cast offs. We need to invest a few high picks I’m the D line.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:15 am
M Lonetree Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:12 am
“Are ya ready for some crapshooting or what?”
LOL always bet on black……
AL DRAFT one of the “coupla newly rich fat kids”
O-LINE for ‘09
Who’s with me?????
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:16 am
alright Riader O either way
D-line for ‘09
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:17 am
In the D line, sorry but I got too excited. I agree with Rockstar, I just can’t see us drafting a DT with 5 or 6 on the roster. It makes no sense.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:17 am
Ottocrat, Jhill & BSJ:
I understand Sam Williams isn’t a starter. We’ve established that. Every team needs depth. You’re not going to have a team with 53 players who could all start and produce the same results. Like it or not – the starting OLB this year will be the winner of a training camp battle between Brown & Alston. These guys were not the huge weakness against the run you’re making them out to be. watch the football games and get back to me before spouting some nonsense like we need to draft an OLB at #7
Kevin Burnett wanted starter money. We didn’t offer it. Why? because we aren’t looking for a starting OLB. We’re looking for competition. Sam Williams will compete with the other 2. Robert Thomas might even be back for camp to compete. some undrafted rookies as well. Burnett chose to sign with San Diego (a winning team & closer to home). surprised? i’m not.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:18 am
OAKlifer,
I’m always ready for the Raiders to get more O-line help.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:21 am
O-line round 1
D-line round 2
S/LB round3
Come on Al, bring us some beef in the first two rounds!
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:22 am
did you factor Kelly’s restructuring into that $22m?
***
Kelly didn’t restructure, neither did Warren. They both converted their roster bonus into a guaranteed payment. The Raiders still owe the money, but they don’t have to dish it out all at once. These players aren’t going to pocket any less money. It’ll just be spread out through the length of their contract
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:22 am
As I’ve always said, if Sam Williams is the 52nd or 53rd man on your roster that is fine, he is a pretty darn good Special Teamer.
But if Sam Williams is your starting OLB, you are in a world of hurt. Here’s hoping Sam stays on the special teams and off the field on Defense.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:25 am
Dakota,
aren’t there any big ol’ farm kids in South Dakota who wrestle the tusks out of mammoths in their spare time who would be of O-line help for the Silver and Black? You are our eyes and ears out in those Badlands.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:26 am
As I’ve always said, if Sam Williams is the 52nd or 53rd man on your roster that is fine, he is a pretty darn good Special Teamer.
***
exactly. you know he came cheap. you can see Cable is putting a big emphasis on special teams by making Lechler & Ekejiuba the highest paid at their positions. Plus Justin Miller is back along with all the LB’s …
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:26 am
Rockstar,
Do you have to remind me of the Burnett thing, I really wanted us to sign him. He signed a 2yr 5 mil contract with SD.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:27 am
I’ll keep my eyes peeled, but don’t hold your breath M.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:28 am
LOL. sorry Raider O
our current group of LB’s should be fine under Marsh’s guidance and direction
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:31 am
Ughh God, we might start Ricky Brown. Don’t remind me. And, as far as the Niners to Santa Clara goes, there going to put it to a vote in 2010, and they’re asking for AT LEAST $90 Million in public money. That’s before the EIR is even done. Look for that number to increase before the vote happens. To quote Jerry Seinfeld: “Good luck with all that!”
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:33 am
M…the short-face bears and saber-tooth tigers eat most of those big ol’ farm kids before they can get home with those tusks.
It isn’t a pretty sight.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:36 am
LongTime No holler! I see we got registration up in here. Waddup fellas.
Wouldn’t it be the best sign ever that Al and Cable are working closely and Al is willing to change his ways if we traded down for more picks or possibly trade Fargas for more picks? I’m keeping my fingers crossed that one of these events might just happen.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:37 am
I agree a draft pick bringing in some new blood instead of keeping Williams. I would hardly call him a core special teams player. I thought that was Ekejiuba or Alston?
Remember the Carolina play we reviewed a few weeks back? The 70 yd run that should have been a 7 yd run at best? Sam Williams was one of the non factors on the field during that play.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 am
Dakota,
but if one of ‘em makes it back alive he might be the guy to shore up the line.
aside: do you think that the Lakers en masse have some sort of standing bet in a Vegas sportsbook that’ll bring them all plenty of cash whenever they throw a game against the Bobkitties? lose 6 out of 7 to Charlotte. No other explanation seems plausible.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 am
If we take all these signings as an indication of who we will draft in the 7th, I say WR or DE. Orakpo or Maclin. I dont think Crab will be available at 7.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:38 am
when you look at the WRs we are looking at,it seems we won’t be taking a WR until the 3rd round of so-maybe rd 2.i agree with Jhill-we have to get a DE early.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:39 am
Also, maybe a Safety in the 1st 3 RDs.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:39 am
Hey Guys
Regardless of the money that is being paid, the present members on the Dline need to perform.
If you are a member of the Dline unit that has been slashed the way we have over the past few years you need to come to camp anticipating change.
Hard to imagine Marshall can somehow summon a miraculaous turnaround with schemes and motivational speaches alone. New talent is going to be introduced in the early rounds of the draft.
No one on this unit has a roster spot guaranteed.
Accountabilty is being stressed by Cable and Mr Davis has bought in.
The results have to improve from the defensive line.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:40 am
Like the story on Boschetti, a selfless player with a high motor can’t hurt our D-line at all. Sands and Kelly need to take out their pad and pencil and start taking notes.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:40 am
SilverandBlackBleeder,
I hold no delusion that McFadden will remain healthy through 16+ games. Bush carrying the entire load himself seems unlikely. Seems as if the Crash Test Dummy is here for the year.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:41 am
Sorry,
Miraculous(sp)
Speeches(sp)
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:43 am
If Sam Williams was still on scholarship he would have been re-signed immediately, he is merely being given a chance to come to camp and perform or he will be let go or return to the bench if we don’t pick up a LB to replace him in the draft.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:45 am
Bush can carry the load easily, his injury was a broken leg I don’t recall him having a injury history while in college and he has not had any problems in the NFL he was kept out an additional year because of the broken leg.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:45 am
I don’t know if Raji is the answer, but I agree we really need to invest some higher draft picks on the D-line: I mean we have Burgess (who is a cast-off), Scott (6th rounder), Gunheim (un-drafted), Richardson (5th rounder), Kelly (un-drafted), Warren (cast-off), Sands (undrafted), Joseph (cast-off).
It should come as no surprise that we have the 31st ranked run defense. Crap-in, crap-out
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 am
i also agree with Dakota-we need o-line help early.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 am
I wouldn’t mind Raji at 7 if he is there, however I think we might be better off with Brace in the 2nd. But at the same time would anyone be crying about Raji at 7 and Gilbert at 40?
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:48 am
Raider O,
at the sound of the word Safety the first thing I see in my mind’s eye is Dorsett blowing the coverage on Sharpe in the AFC champ game. I know it should be Tatum or Atkinson or Woodson or Eric Turner but instead it finds Anthony Dorsett. Guess it’s been a while (aside from RWood) since there has been any credible safety play in Oaktown.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:48 am
I remember the good ol days when we read every other comment from Dakota how much he “Loved McFadden”
The blog after a few months decided DMAC was the way to go.
Dakota looked brilliant as he defended his posistion for DMAC on a daily basis.
As we found out later the Raiders tried to engineer a trade with St. Louis to move up and select DMAC.
My gut tells me the Raider organization sensed our channeled energy and this blog lead the way.
So a enough of this back and forth, let’s all decide who we need to select and let’s start hyping this player now.
The draft is in 23 more days let’s get this moving forward.
Finally we found out from Jerry AL reads this blog, let’s have the player the Raiders need and let’s get it moving.
If AL can take Southwest Airlines, the no frill airline he must be practical enough to listen to the fans, right?
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 am
M-wasn’t that Pope?
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:49 am
I agree Bart you reap what you sow, we play garbage on our line we get garbage production in return. The Raiders need to invest some money on the D-line like we used to, think back at the great Raider D-lines and tell me most weren’t high round picks.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:51 am
DMunoz26,
MBush could barely make it through carrying the load for the one end of the season game. 16 of ‘em? Outta shape for the haul perhaps, but is he gonna work his tail off to rectify that?
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:53 am
We should not trade the running backs on this team for any reason. This is actually one of our strengths. I would just change the way we use them. Start McFadden and Michael Bush and bring in Fargas off the bench. That will keep him fresh and he is such a hard runner he can still run some defenses in the ground.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:53 am
BBB,
You, me, and S&B we GET IT. We need big Al to GET IT too.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:54 am
if you go way back and look at the D-lines i think you might be surprised.Sistrunk,the original Big Ben(Davidson),Alzado,etc.-none were high draft choices.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:54 am
# M Lonetree Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:51 am
DMunoz26,
MBush could barely make it through carrying the load for the one end of the season game. 16 of ‘em? Outta shape for the haul perhaps, but is he gonna work his tail off to rectify that?
_______________________________________________
Where do you get this information from? He handled the load just fine and did more than enough with it. You have no basis for your theory, if you do I would love to hear how it is he could barely handle the load for 1 game cause there were no reports on him being hurt or tired and they ran the hell out of him.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:54 am
Lefty12,
Pope, could be. I know Dorsett did a 3 Stooges routine on the play. It was at the far end of the field from me and I damn sure never have watched a replay. Too disgusting.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:55 am
I really enjoy watching DMAC play but I think Bush is going to be a far more better down for down back. I can’t wait to watch these two go at it this year.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:56 am
DMunoz26,
Cable had to burn a timeout at the end on the FG drive just so Bush could sit down and take a break. You don’t recall?
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:58 am
M-it really doesn’t matter-they both sucked.i brought up Pope cause he was an ex whiner and anytime i can badmouth a whiner it makes me feel better.
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:59 am
He ran the ball 27 times and unlike most backs with that kind of work load he had nobody to sub out for him because of injuries. Note on top of his 27 runs they were big runs and you also have to take into account that he is also in plays running and blocking that don’t go to him. No back runs that many times without a breather and doesn’t get tired.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:00 am
we had 2 use a time-out b/c Bush was not ready 2 handle the load.Hopefully he will practice harder and will NOT get winded by playing 1 quater of football
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:01 am
Boschetti is a San Mateo product, and a paisan to boot!
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:01 am
M,
You are not the only one.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:03 am
if bush would have played FB for a game or 2,he might have been able to go 2 quaters
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:03 am
DMunoz26,
personally I think that MBush is the premier RB on the Raiders. RBs just break down all the time.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:04 am
He ran for 177 yards on 27 carries it wasn’t 1 carry. You guys are ridiculous bagging on him you clearly have never played running back. He had to run pass patterns and block on plays he wasn’t given the ball and because of injuries we had nobody to come in and give him a breather. Even Adrian Peterson comes out for air and he led the NFL but Bush shouldn’t? That’s a joke.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:06 am
Even Ray Lewis needed help!
Feb. 21, 2006: General manager Ozzie Newsome acknowledges Lewis asked to be traded before the 2005 season but added Lewis hasn’t made any such request recently. It was during that season that Lewis appeared less vocal with teammates and made a habit of sitting alone on the bench during games. According to The San Diego Union-Tribune, Lewis pitched his skills to some Chargers team members at the Pro Bowl.
April 20, 2006: Lewis vents his frustration about not having space-eating defensive tackles in front of him that would allow him to roam free to make tackles. “The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
http://www.courant.com/bal-ray-lewis-timeline-304,1,5168106.story
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:07 am
RaiderDell,
good morning and how are you this fine day? buried under codes, write-offs and loopholes?
Dakota says go O-line. I’m all for it.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:07 am
I saw Fargas run for 1009 yards in 7 games and we NEVER had 2 call a time-out 4 Fargas
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:08 am
I would get on board with selecting BJ Raji ahead of anyone except the top 3 OT’s and Crabtree. If all 4 of them are gone (or Cable doesn’t like them for the ZBS) then Raji would be a good choice. I still have doubts about Raji’s skills translating to the NFL, but if he is the active nose tackle they make him out to be, that would transform our D-line:
Raji could start at Nose gaurd on the left side, while Kelly could slide back to 3-tech full time. This would also give the D-line the versatility to place Sands and Raji together in the middle and slide Kelly to DE on obvious running plays, improving two positions on the line.
Not saying Raji would be worth a #7 overall, but considering the other options, it seems like a smart move.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:08 am
Fargas also had Rhodes and Jordan to come in to spell him.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 am
dont get me wrong,I would love 4 Bush 2 step-up
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 am
Finally registration! That means intelligent Raider football talk.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:10 am
would anyone be crying about Raji at 7 and Gilbert at 40?
***
how many yards and TD’s have our WR’s produced in the last 3 years? I guarantee you if we don’t rank last, we’re bottom 5. It would be bad enough to enter the season with this stinky o-line, but to avoid the WR position as well is setting Russell (the face of the franchise) up for failure. addressing the run defense and leaving Russell w/o any help makes those 2 DL non factors. It’s not like Raji & Gilbert transform our defense into the 2000 Ravens. If we can’t move the chains and score points we will lose. If we can’t get Russell some talent to work with and some protection we will lose. losing means another HC and more losing. Why can’t you guys understand that? This team will only go as far as Russell takes it. Were you guys impressed with JR last year? I wasn’t. I heard the word “bust” more often than “superstar”. You guys want more of the same? a qb that averages 150 yards and 1 TD per game? thats 7th round talent guys – not #1 overall pick
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:10 am
Exactly. RBs do break down all the time. You can only run so hard for so many years. Look at LT. The best thing to do is move them when you can, and Fargas still holds tremendous value us, but would be even more of a value to a team like Arizona. McFadden and Bush are the future.
You guys think Al will go after Vick if he gets re-instated? Would love to have him as a back-up, and we could more than likely get him for cheap. It’s funny but if you think about it, Oakland is probably the only place he could go where he wouldn’t have to worry about PETA protests at home games. The Black Hole wouldn’t allow it and would probably beat the hell out of anyone protesting vehemently about a Raider.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:12 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:10 am
would anyone be crying about Raji at 7 and Gilbert at 40?
***
how many yards and TD’s have our WR’s produced in the last 3 years? I guarantee you if we don’t rank last, we’re bottom 5. It would be bad enough to enter the season with this stinky o-line, but to avoid the WR position as well is setting Russell (the face of the franchise) up for failure. addressing the run defense and leaving Russell w/o any help makes those 2 DL non factors. It’s not like Raji & Gilbert transform our defense into the 2000 Ravens. If we can’t move the chains and score points we will lose. If we can’t get Russell some talent to work with and some protection we will lose. losing means another HC and more losing. Why can’t you guys understand that? This team will only go as far as Russell takes it. Were you guys impressed with JR last year? I wasn’t. I heard the word “bust” more often than “superstar”. You guys want more of the same? a qb that averages 150 yards and 1 TD per game? thats 7th round talent guys – not #1 overall pick
_________________________________________
Raji and Gilbert actually turn our defense into one of the top defenses because we are studs against the pass, but can’t stop the run. If we start stopping the run that means more opportunities for the offense, a WR can always be taken next year if the young WR’s don’t work out but we flat out know the D-line is not working now. Better D-line = better LB play, better CB/S play, and more opportunities for the offense to wear down the opposing teams D.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:14 am
Per my recent post on Ray Lewis Post 348,
Ray Lewis was ineffective without a big nasty space eating DT underneath. Now if Ray Lewis can’t get it done, how the h$ll is Morrison supposed to stand a chance with the expensive trio in front of him?
The Ravens didn’t wait until the 2nd round to draft John McCargo or wait until later rounds to get Domata Peko or Orien Harris. They went ahead and grabbed the best @$@!! on the board.
The Ravens didn’t get in a prayer circle and hope that Rex Ryan could spin some inspiration on their overmatched D-Line.
Raiders should take note.
With the 7th pick the Raiders select……..
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:14 am
# SilverAndBlackBleeder Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:10 am
Exactly. RBs do break down all the time. You can only run so hard for so many years. Look at LT. The best thing to do is move them when you can, and Fargas still holds tremendous value us, but would be even more of a value to a team like Arizona. McFadden and Bush are the future.
You guys think Al will go after Vick if he gets re-instated? Would love to have him as a back-up, and we could more than likely get him for cheap. It’s funny but if you think about it, Oakland is probably the only place he could go where he wouldn’t have to worry about PETA protests at home games. The Black Hole wouldn’t allow it and would probably beat the hell out of anyone protesting vehemently about a Raider.
______________________________________
Vick has stated he expects to make 10 million a year from the team that takes him. So NO I hope Al doesn’t even answer his call if he makes one.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:15 am
Kush Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 am
Finally registration! That means intelligent Raider football talk
DONT YOU BELIEVE IT LOLOLOLOLOLOL =)
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:16 am
BART Bridge Blues Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:08 am
I would get on board with selecting BJ Raji ahead of anyone except the top 3 OT’s and Crabtree. If all 4 of them are gone (or Cable doesn’t like them for the ZBS) then Raji would be a good choice. I still have doubts about Raji’s skills translating to the NFL, but if he is the active nose tackle they make him out to be, that would transform our D-line:
Raji could start at Nose gaurd on the left side, while Kelly could slide back to 3-tech full time. This would also give the D-line the versatility to place Sands and Raji together in the middle and slide Kelly to DE on obvious running plays, improving two positions on the line.
Not saying Raji would be worth a #7 overall, but considering the other options, it seems like a smart move.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
BBB
I will say yesterday you provided stats to indicate that our DE’S are a bigger problem than our DT’S.
So with that information why would you go with Raji instead of a DE or any other option, like OL or WR.
Let’s stay defense and use your thoughts in this, will Okrapo, make a difference , is Ayers to high of a pick based on his performance in colege. Who else is really worth a #7 pick for the D-Line.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:16 am
#
# SnB Defense Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:14 am
Per my recent post on Ray Lewis Post 348,
Ray Lewis was ineffective without a big nasty space eating DT underneath. Now if Ray Lewis can’t get it done, how the h$ll is Morrison supposed to stand a chance with the expensive trio in front of him?
The Ravens didn’t wait until the 2nd round to draft John McCargo or wait until later rounds to get Domata Peko or Orien Harris. They went ahead and grabbed the best @$@!! on the board.
The Ravens didn’t get in a prayer circle and hope that Rex Ryan could spin some inspiration on their overmatched D-Line.
Raiders should take note.
With the 7th pick the Raiders select……..
___________________________________________
Amen… Those of you wanting O keep in mind if we keep giving up points like we have been we aren’t going to win anything either. The Colts won the SB but that was only when their D stepped up and became the top D in the playoffs (Coincided with Sanders return from injury).
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:17 am
You guys think Al will go after Vick if he gets re-instated? Would love to have him as a back-up, and we could more than likely get him for cheap. It’s funny but if you think about it, Oakland is probably the only place he could go where he wouldn’t have to worry about PETA protests at home games. The Black Hole wouldn’t allow it and would probably beat the hell out of anyone protesting vehemently about a Raider.
***
exactly. I’d love to have him as a backup QB and occasional use in the wildcat. He’d have to play for the vet minimum though. I doubt he wants to do that after being the league’s highest paid player last time he stepped on the football field.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:17 am
Vick could be a good back up but for the money Vick is planning on making I don’t know if we can deal with that. Vick may want to start. The last I heard Mr. Vick is looking to make to much to pay off his past debts. To do that it may require him looking for a starting position, which he will not find, and coming back for the league minimum. Vicks next stop may be Dallas.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:19 am
# Raider Dell Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:16 am
BART Bridge Blues Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:08 am
I would get on board with selecting BJ Raji ahead of anyone except the top 3 OT’s and Crabtree. If all 4 of them are gone (or Cable doesn’t like them for the ZBS) then Raji would be a good choice. I still have doubts about Raji’s skills translating to the NFL, but if he is the active nose tackle they make him out to be, that would transform our D-line:
Raji could start at Nose gaurd on the left side, while Kelly could slide back to 3-tech full time. This would also give the D-line the versatility to place Sands and Raji together in the middle and slide Kelly to DE on obvious running plays, improving two positions on the line.
Not saying Raji would be worth a #7 overall, but considering the other options, it seems like a smart move.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
BBB
I will say yesterday you provided stats to indicate that our DE’S are a bigger problem than our DT’S.
So with that information why would you go with Raji instead of a DE or any other option, like OL or WR.
Let’s stay defense and use your thoughts in this, will Okrapo, make a difference , is Ayers to high of a pick based on his performance in colege. Who else is really worth a #7 pick for the D-Line.
___________________________________________
Because Gilbert is a top DE prospect that can be had in the 2nd round. Meaning we plug 2 holes on our D line with this option but I also like Orakpo/Brace too. But I think no matter what we have to go heavy on defense this year.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:19 am
DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:04 am
He ran for 177 yards on 27 carries it wasn’t 1 carry. You guys are ridiculous bagging on him you clearly have never played running back. He had to run pass patterns and block on plays he wasn’t given the ball and because of injuries we had nobody to come in and give him a breather. Even Adrian Peterson comes out for air and he led the NFL but Bush shouldn’t? That’s a joke.
======================================================
Next to the blind loyalty paid to Warren/Sands and Kelly, the Michael Bush and the RB depth chart ranks a close 2nd.
Michael Bush is an absolute beast. Give him the ball enough times and he is going to wear out defenses and swallow up yards. Also don’t forget he caught SEVEN catches against San Diego. He also had a couple of good hard runs against Buffalo. Bush is a guy that needs 15 to 20 per gm. DMAC another 10 and Fargas in spot duty.
Teams have been inquiring with the Raiders about Bush because the league thinks the Raiders are stupid enough to trade a top 10 running back.
I don’t care what Fargas did in an injury shortened year. He can’t catch and is not a patient runner. He’s a hard worker. Perhaps he should take reps at fullback.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:20 am
M Lonetree Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:07 am
RaiderDell,
good morning and how are you this fine day? buried under codes, write-offs and loopholes?
Dakota says go O-line. I’m all for it.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
M,
I guess you had to extend your name for this blog. I always thought your name was cool, like a Bond Movie.
I’m holding up, a few weeks left, and then it’s off to a mini vacation.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:20 am
If we start stopping the run that means more opportunities for the offense
more opportunities for the offense to wear down the opposing teams D
***
LOL. our defense played much better than the offense in most games the past 3 years – despite the defense being on the field so much because the offense was ineffective
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:21 am
Great point Dmunoz,
Our biggest weaknesses are Run Defense and passing offense.
The passing offense had a 2nd year QB, 2nd year WR, Rookie WR, injured #1WR and there is a new guy coming off a year on the bench (Shields). Lots of reason for optimism there.
The run defense had a veteran 3-tech, veteran nose tackle, veteran back-up DT, veteran RDE, 2nd year LDE, rookie back-up DE and a veteran back-up DE who has since been cut. There is very little room for improvement with this bunch, except for maybe Richardson and Scott…and 31st against the run.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:21 am
we could beat-up peta with dead animal carcasses =)
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:23 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:20 am
If we start stopping the run that means more opportunities for the offense
more opportunities for the offense to wear down the opposing teams D
***
LOL. our defense played much better than the offense in most games the past 3 years – despite the defense being on the field so much because the offense was ineffective
_________________
31st run defense over the 32nd pass offense? Really you consider that much better?
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:23 am
DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:54 am
# M Lonetree Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:51 am
DMunoz26,
MBush could barely make it through carrying the load for the one end of the season game. 16 of ‘em? Outta shape for the haul perhaps, but is he gonna work his tail off to rectify that?
_______________________________________________
Where do you get this information from? He handled the load just fine and did more than enough with it. You have no basis for your theory, if you do I would love to hear how it is he could barely handle the load for 1 game cause there were no reports on him being hurt or tired and they ran the hell out of him.
Not only does Danny boy the that he ran off the trolls
Now he’s trying to run off some of the fader fans as well 
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:23 am
Fargas would do ANYTHING 2 help the team,if that means playing FB,so be it.Bush wouldnt
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:23 am
Thanks for that heads up DMunoz. I’m sure Vick has all sorts of money problems and is looking to get out of ‘em, but didn’t know he was expecting to get that much a year. The owners in the league need to stand firm and make that cat prove he can go a year without football and still be up to speed. I would love for us to snag him for a Cutler like price.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:24 am
BART Bridge Blues Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 10:45 am
I don’t know if Raji is the answer, but I agree we really need to invest some higher draft picks on the D-line: I mean we have Burgess (who is a cast-off), Scott (6th rounder), Gunheim (un-drafted), Richardson (5th rounder), Kelly (un-drafted), Warren (cast-off), Sands (undrafted), Joseph (cast-off).
It should come as no surprise that we have the 31st ranked run defense. Crap-in, crap-out
=======================================================
The D-Line is quite simply an afterthought. D-Line, outside of a speed rusher on the outside, doesn’t show well in fantasy football or the highlight reel.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
Our passing offense was 32nd but also had the worst O-line in the NFL. We have all young players on O so no reason to start rushing to fix it with more young players that need to develop. The D-line is broken and they are all old vets with the exception of a couple guys, these guys have to go and be replaced they aren’t just going to switch it on all of the sudden.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
so does anyone think crabtree will be selected by the browns with this whole donte stalworth murder thing and winslow being traded? lets hope so,, >>draft Andre “The Giant” Smith
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:28 am
Kush Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:09 am
Finally registration! That means intelligent Raider football talk.
Isn’t that an oxymoron
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:28 am
# NoLuv4Hoes Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
so does anyone think crabtree will be selected by the browns with this whole donte stalworth murder thing and winslow being traded? lets hope so,, >>draft Andre “The Giant” Smith
___________________
It’s a definite possibility don’t forget Braylon Edwards wants out too.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:29 am
DMunoz26: Review the last 48 games. I’m not talking about the stats you just found on wiki or NFL.com
i’m talking about the defense as a whole and the offense as a whole.
Rob Ryan isn’t running the defense anymore, if you hadn’t noticed. Tom Cable is still running the offense
Expect most of the changes on D to be with schemes and philosophy-not so much personnel. Marsh will teach the guys about gap discipline and he’ll teach them how to tackle.
Why else would we resign all these players on D? because they deserve another chance playing under a real DC
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:30 am
My comments yesterday about DE being the problematic position on the D-line still hold true. But I also still attribute that mostly to scheme rather than personnel. Derrick Burgess is a complete poser at LDE, he almost single-handedly destroys our defense by refusing to play on the weak-side.
Drafting Orakpo would seem like a great option to alleviate this problem, except for one thing: Texas players suck in the NFL, year after year. If Al never drafts another Longhorn in his lifetime, we would be better off.
..and to follow suit with other posters, drafting Jarron Gilbert in the 2nd round would have a bigger effect on this defense, than any other move we could make this off-season.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:31 am
# DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:28 am
# NoLuv4Hoes Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
so does anyone think crabtree will be selected by the browns with this whole donte stalworth murder thing and winslow being traded? lets hope so,, >>draft Andre “The Giant” Smith
___________________
It’s a definite possibility don’t forget Braylon Edwards wants out too.
********************************
forgot about braylon edwards. things are looking even better for us to draft an ol or dl with the first pick.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:31 am
. Marsh will teach the guys about gap discipline and he’ll teach them how to tackle
You would have thought these guys would no this by now
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:32 am
know
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:33 am
Let me clarify! The reason I say Vick may end up in Dallas becuase I heard at one time Jerry showed some interest and they seem to embrace PR nightmares for other teams (Irvin, TO, Pac Man) Alexander – cocaine sniffing QB) Demetrius Underwood – bipolar-slit his wrists after signing a contract out of MSU. Alonzo Spellman (Out of OSU bipolar-last issue police had to shoot his tires out in a high speed chase in Oklahoma)Quincy Carter – Cocaine sniffing QB.
So see what I am saying Dallas has a little of that Social Wroker we can make them better and give him a chance attitude as well. Looking at these other issues players have had on the Cowboys, I would say Vick is a possible.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:33 am
You would have thought these guys would know this by now
***
5 years of Rob Ryan and 5 years of a pathetic run defense. coincidence? I think not.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:34 am
NoLuv4Hoes Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:31 am
# DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:28 am
# NoLuv4Hoes Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
so does anyone think crabtree will be selected by the browns with this whole donte stalworth murder thing and winslow being traded? lets hope so,, >>draft Andre “The Giant” Smith
___________________
It’s a definite possibility don’t forget Braylon Edwards wants out too.
********************************
forgot about braylon edwards. things are looking even better for us to draft an ol or dl with the first pick.
————————————
Except I get the feeling Rob Ryan took the DC job knowing they would give the D the first round pick.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:34 am
You can’t teach heart and talent. Two things that we’re missing on the DL. Offense can and needs to wait. The defense needs to be sured up starting with the DL.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:35 am
Are we still waiting for Sam Williams to develop into a starting LB? Talk about beating a dead horse.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:36 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:29 am
DMunoz26: Review the last 48 games. I’m not talking about the stats you just found on wiki or NFL.com
i’m talking about the defense as a whole and the offense as a whole.
Rob Ryan isn’t running the defense anymore, if you hadn’t noticed. Tom Cable is still running the offense
Expect most of the changes on D to be with schemes and philosophy-not so much personnel. Marsh will teach the guys about gap discipline and he’ll teach them how to tackle.
Why else would we resign all these players on D? because they deserve another chance playing under a real DC
_______________________________________
Sand and Kelly were already under contract they were not resigned and they should know how to tackle, gap discipline and how to play their position in general. Is he going to teach them how to not be lazy and be blown out on plays? Stop defending these guys already, it’s a joke. The entire D can improve just off of better D-line play. LB’s will be free to flow to the ball, this allows the DB’s/S’s to play the pass more freely and not have to worry about being the last line of defense on every play.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:37 am
Yeah, great point RaiderRockStar with Rob Ryan gone the team may learn how to tackle.
I think Cable will continue to do the play calling next year, he did a good job I thought.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:38 am
Rob Ryan has experience as a DC (Oakland) and experience in the 3-4 defense (New England). Plus he’s playing under a defensive minded HC now.
He’ll probably fair better in Cleveland than in Oakland…
He didn’t have experience as a DC or in the 4-3 defense when he first came here. Plus we never had a defensive HC during Ryan’s tenure (Turner, Shell, Kiffin, Cable)
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:38 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:10 am
would anyone be crying about Raji at 7 and Gilbert at 40?
———————————————-
how many yards and TD’s have our WR’s produced in the last 3 years? I guarantee you if we don’t rank last, we’re bottom 5. It would be bad enough to enter the season with this stinky o-line, but to avoid the WR position as well is setting Russell (the face of the franchise) up for failure. addressing the run defense and leaving Russell w/o any help makes those 2 DL non factors. It’s not like Raji & Gilbert transform our defense into the 2000 Ravens. If we can’t move the chains and score points we will lose. If we can’t get Russell some talent to work with and some protection we will lose. losing means another HC and more losing. Why can’t you guys understand that? This team will only go as far as Russell takes it. Were you guys impressed with JR last year? I wasn’t. I heard the word “bust” more often than “superstar”. You guys want more of the same? a qb that averages 150 yards and 1 TD per game? thats 7th round talent guys – not #1 overall pick
——————————————————-
RaiderRockstar,
In the 2nd half of the season the offense demonstrated that it can move the ball and score points. Last yr is a tale of two halves. The 1st half mired in injury, coaching chaos and palace intrigue. The 2nd half showed growth and opportunity. The Raiders get the right personnel on the field (Bush/DMAC, Schilens/JLH, healthy Walker, Henderson, upgrade at RT, Miller, a more seasoned Russell) they can score points and move the ball. Michael Crabtree would be nice to add, but he isn’t going to change the offense into a 30pt scoring machine.
On the other side, the Raiders have a defense that got overwhelmed against aggressive offenses and pounded into oblivion against more conservative running types. Adding Raji and Gilbert will get more 3 and outs, more 3rd and longs and more pressure on QB’s…Will force teams to have to throw into our expensive secondary. Finally, the offense will get more opportunities to make big plays. Coupled with a special teams unit, we give our offense more swings at the plate.
As Ray Lewis said:
“The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:38 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:33 am
You would have thought these guys would know this by now
***
5 years of Rob Ryan and 5 years of a pathetic run defense. coincidence? I think not.
________
Run defense was consistently declining before he got here, nice try.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:39 am
# Ryan Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:34 am
NoLuv4Hoes Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:31 am
# DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:28 am
# NoLuv4Hoes Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
so does anyone think crabtree will be selected by the browns with this whole donte stalworth murder thing and winslow being traded? lets hope so,, >>draft Andre “The Giant” Smith
___________________
It’s a definite possibility don’t forget Braylon Edwards wants out too.
********************************
forgot about braylon edwards. things are looking even better for us to draft an ol or dl with the first pick.
————————————
Except I get the feeling Rob Ryan took the DC job knowing they would give the D the first round pick.
*****************************
yeah but that was before Donte Stalworth murdered someone and might go to jail for 16+ years
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:39 am
DLine is the biggest priority, but just because Raji might be the best DT in the draft, doesn’t mean he’s a quality #7 pick, or as good as the other best DT’s from previous drafts. Is he head and shoulders above Jerry out of Ole Miss? That we don’t know. The only quailty players who might be available at that spot that justify us taking them as #7 picks are Smith, Monroe, and Crabtree (who I’m not that excited about after finding out he’s not as tall as we all thought at first).
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:39 am
The idea of trading the pick with Philly is valid if they are looking to replace Mac NABB with the pick for the future.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:40 am
Would you rather see Crabtree catch a TD or see our D finally stop a game winning drive for once?
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:42 am
DMunoz26: I know you’re not retarded, we’ve had many good discussions before … let me say this a 3rd time. I’m talking about the defense as a whole, not just the DT’s
do I really need to type out every defensive player we’ve resigned this offseason?
1 DT or DE doesn’t make us a stout run defense. It takes 11 players
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:43 am
# Lynn from Snot Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:39 am
The idea of trading the pick with Philly is valid if they are looking to replace Mac NABB with the pick for the future.
__________
If they want that they wont trade with us for a QB, both will be gone by 4th pick… Sanchez had such a good pro day he might go #1 to Lions or #4 to Seahawks to replace Hasselback… They will move up for Crabtree to compliment D. Jackson, however with Philly’s pattern of 1st round picks at WR makes me not want Crabtree lol.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:43 am
# DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:40 am
Would you rather see Crabtree catch a TD or see our D finally stop a game winning drive for once?
****************************
i would rather see walker higgins chaz improve at wide receiver by giving them more time to get open and still stop the run. so the answer is both except for crabs being here. so pick a LT 1st and help the run d with the remaining picks.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:45 am
I could buy into the Sands/Warren/Kelly just need better coaching angle. But these are guys that have been in the league for a while.
Warren and Sands are going on their NINTH NFL season.
Kelly was given a bloated contract based on his performance.
These are guys that should know technique, tackling, gaps etc….
I think Kelly is a guy that can turn it around. Warren should not be at NT and is a backup and Sands should be dismissed.
Get some younger talent with some upside that can be coached up.
As Ray Lewis said:
“The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:46 am
Run defense was consistently declining before he got here, nice try.
***
players come and go every season. The DC was here for 5 years. How many players on the defense were here when Ryan first came?
and don’t blame Chuck Bresnahan. He wasn’t the best, but he did enough to win games. playoffs, Super Bowl, etc
Rob Ryan was a 5 year disaster. Sometimes Al Davis is loyal to a fault
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:47 am
Stalworth isn’t a possesion received, (I don’t think). I could see the Browns going after Maclin before Crabtree.
I still think all signs point to the Raiders picking Crabtree. I hope Curry is there (doubt it) I hope Jason Smith is there (doubt it) and I wouldn’t be sad at all if the pick is OL or DL. I just don’t see it happening.
I get the feeling you will see me at the Seattle game with my DMAC jersey, my wife with her Howie Long jersey and my kid with a Crabtree jersey.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:47 am
I love Crabtree and Maclin and would be totally cool with either of those picks, but I’m starting to lean toward Rey Maualuga as the best option at No. 7. You just have a feeling that guy is the next Ray Lewis.
Anyone who wants Raji should ask themselves this: would I rather see Raji or Maualuga in a Chargers/Broncos uniform for the next 10 years. Raji may turn out to be a good player, and that’s fine, but no way do I want Rey Maualuga landing anywhere in the AFC West besides Oakland.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:48 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:42 am
DMunoz26: I know you’re not retarded, we’ve had many good discussions before … let me say this a 3rd time. I’m talking about the defense as a whole, not just the DT’s
do I really need to type out every defensive player we’ve resigned this offseason?
1 DT or DE doesn’t make us a stout run defense. It takes 11 players
_____________________________
against the run
2005 – Ravens before they drafted Ngata ranked 9th
2006 – Ravens with Ngata as a rookie ranked 1st
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:48 am
BART Bridge Blues Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:30 am
My comments yesterday about DE being the problematic position on the D-line still hold true. But I also still attribute that mostly to scheme rather than personnel. Derrick Burgess is a complete poser at LDE, he almost single-handedly destroys our defense by refusing to play on the weak-side.
Drafting Orakpo would seem like a great option to alleviate this problem, except for one thing: Texas players suck in the NFL, year after year. If Al never drafts another Longhorn in his lifetime, we would be better off.
..and to follow suit with other posters, drafting Jarron Gilbert in the 2nd round would have a bigger effect on this defense, than any other move we could make this off-season.
======================================================
The Raiders need is a base DE, as you point out in your last paragraph. Orakpo is a speed rusher who is projected as a DE/OLB. The Raiders need a guy to hold the point consistently.
You are right. Gilbert on the DE would have a big impact on this shoddy/overmatched and uninspiring D-Line.
As Ray Lewis said:
“The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:48 am
It will be tough to call how exactly the first 6 go , there is still a lot of things that could change with DEnver shopping Cutler.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:48 am
Michael Crabtree would be nice to add, but he isn’t going to change the offense into a 30pt scoring machine.
***
why not? he changes the entire offense as long as the o-line does their job in keeping Russell’s jersey clean. That should be the bigger debate here
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:50 am
against the run
2005 – Ravens before they drafted Ngata ranked 9th
2006 – Ravens with Ngata as a rookie ranked 1st
***
Will Raji have the same supporting cast that Ngata did in 2006? please stop using crazy examples just to prove a point that isn’t valid
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:51 am
There is no way we take Maualuga at 7 , its not that big of a need and he’s not a 3 down LBer.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:51 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:48 am
Michael Crabtree would be nice to add, but he isn’t going to change the offense into a 30pt scoring machine.
***
why not? he changes the entire offense as long as the o-line does their job in keeping Russell’s jersey clean. That should be the bigger debate here
_______
So Crabtree means a better offense w/ better O-line play but our existing WR’s don’t get a chance with that improved O-line play? That makes no sense, you just admitted the problem was the O-line not the WR’s.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:52 am
Watching the USC Pro day yesterday, Rey looked like the third best LB at USC, let alone this years draft. There is no way Rey goes at 7, and I don’t think Morrison would be a good strong side LB against the run, so MLB in the draft doesn’t seem likely.
I wouldn’t mind seeing the Raiders trade up their 2nd round pick to get Cushings. That guy is solid with pass rushing experiance.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:53 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:50 am
against the run
2005 – Ravens before they drafted Ngata ranked 9th
2006 – Ravens with Ngata as a rookie ranked 1st
***
Will Raji have the same supporting cast that Ngata did in 2006? please stop using crazy examples just to prove a point that isn’t valid
____
No but did anyone know Ngata would have that impact? No or he would have went higher in the draft, just like nobody knows on Raji either it’s a guessing game pure and simple. I proved a point that you made no sense that 1 DT can’t change a D into a stout run defense, learn to read noob.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:53 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:42 am
DMunoz26:
1 DT or DE doesn’t make us a stout run defense. It takes 11 players
=======================================================
No, but 1 DT and 1 Base DE can make us a stout run defense. 1 good DT that eats up blockers makes the linebackers better. Makes the DE and UT better. Makes the safeties better. 1 good Base DE forces the play back to the playmakers. It does take 11 players….but a couple of really good players on the line makes the other 9 much better.
Last night on NFLN, Warren Sapp and Willie McGinnest demonstrated how a NT taking on the double team frees up a DE to get to the QB.
Rockstar, its just time to fix this mess….and its a mess on the D-Line.
As Ray Lewis said:
“The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:54 am
DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:48 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:42 am
DMunoz26: I know you’re not retarded,
I wouldn’t be so sure about that RR
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:56 am
Fix the o-line first, then draft your WR…unless the WR is SPECIAL.
Crabs ain’t special.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:56 am
Raji is a good DT but his height makes him a one in a million shot to be a dominant NT. Crabtree is the real deal and we need to keep the D off the field but doesn’t have the speed AL likes and @6′1 he isn’t as sure a thing although I think he’ll pan out. The top DE’s at this point in they’re development are one dimensional; either strickly pass rushers or run stoppers. We’ve addressed Oline in the offseason. Let’s get a sure thing in an area we have to improve to be a competitor which is LB. Rey, Cushing, Matthews, and Larinitis will be there for the taking
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:57 am
# Dakota Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:56 am
Fix the o-line first, then draft your WR…unless the WR is SPECIAL.
Crabs ain’t special.
_______
Agreed 100% on Crabs, but I think they believe it is fixed. Them saying they need to get better on the O-line in the offseason is almost a guarantee we wont take a lineman at 7, no way we tip our hands like that.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:58 am
the Raiders have a defense that got overwhelmed against aggressive offenses and pounded into oblivion against more conservative running types.
***
this will continue to happen as long as the offense struggles. you give the opposing team enough chances and they are going to score – especially good offenses
I understand you guys want to build a team like the 2008 Titans. Run heavy offense with a garbage QB and receivers. stout defense, especially run defense.
A team like this will never win the championship when teams like the Steelers have a dynamic offense & defense.
Right now both we stink on both sides of the ball. pick which side stinks worse and fix it. you guys picked D. I picked O. It’s no surprise. I understand the debate – I just don’t agree
I’m willing to give the D another year under a new DC. You are not. I want to give Russell a dynamic WR. You guys think that guy is already on the roster or can be found in the later rounds. Am I right?
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:58 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:50 am
against the run
2005 – Ravens before they drafted Ngata ranked 9th
2006 – Ravens with Ngata as a rookie ranked 1st
***
Will Raji have the same supporting cast that Ngata did in 2006? please stop using crazy examples just to prove a point that isn’t valid
======================================================
A couple of things.
First, the standards of defense in Baltimore are clearly much higher than in Oakland.
Second, Raji’s supporting cast will be pretty good.
Morrison can get to the ball as demonstrated by his 135 tackles…hopefully most of those tackles happen around the line of scrimmage
Howard can fly around the field….he gets better
Kelly is supposed to be this super hero. Now he gets help
Burgess/Scott have demonstrated an ability to make plays
Aso and C.Johnson are the best man2man cover corner tandem in the league…
Raiders defense isn’t as good as Baltimore, but the “supporting cast” can get it done if linebackers aren’t wrestling 340lb Guards and Tackles on every running play.
As Ray Lewis said:
“The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:59 am
Finding good defensive linemen late in the draft has been pretty productive over the years. Maybe they get another starter in the later rounds.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:59 am
Same ole stuff …
Our defense was good enough to hold most team to 14 pts or less through 3 qtrs. We’ve been over this a thousand times and even the Raji supporters don’t deny this.
We’ve also proven that our defense gets to 3rd down a lot, but can’t get off the field on 3rd down.
Our top issue on defense is clearly 3rd down defense. Anyone arguing for a DT just doesn’t make sense. How does a DT help us on 3rd and 7? Name me one impact DT that you think of on 3rd and 7? Whoever you just came up with, Raji is not that guy, and will most likely be on the sidelines on 3rd down.
Getting off the field on 3rd down is what will give the offense more opportunities.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:00 pm
# inonewordraider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:56 am
Raji is a good DT but his height makes him a one in a million shot to be a dominant NT. Crabtree is the real deal and we need to keep the D off the field but doesn’t have the speed AL likes and @6′1 he isn’t as sure a thing although I think he’ll pan out. The top DE’s at this point in they’re development are one dimensional; either strickly pass rushers or run stoppers. We’ve addressed Oline in the offseason. Let’s get a sure thing in an area we have to improve to be a competitor which is LB. Rey, Cushing, Matthews, and Larinitis will be there for the taking
_______
You really think LB is our biggest area to improve on at 7? I have to disagree on that
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:00 pm
# Lynn from Snot Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:39 am
The idea of trading the pick with Philly is valid if they are looking to replace Mac NABB with the pick for the future.
——————————————————–
McNabb had one of his best years last year and seemed rejuvenated plus they drafted Kold in the 2nd round a couple years ago. Philly has gotten a bit old in some very important spots like OT and S. McNabb is still in his early 30’s so he has some gas left. Best move for Philly would be to “reload” instead of rebuild, by keeping their draft choices and making solid selections. I am all but positive that is what they are going to do.
Mike Vick is not going to be a backup QB anywhere for long. He is going to be in high demand as maybe 10 different teams need Q’s right about now. He could sit on the bench for a year and let the fervor die down, and then come in and start. I am a pretty good scout on Mike Vick because I have some connections with Atlanta, and have seen Mike Vick play many, many, many times with my own eyes. Don’t let anyone kid you..this guy is one of the most remarkable athletes you will ever see. And he is incredibly ACCURATE. Don’t let anyone tell you he isn’t. He is not a big guy physically by any stretch, and the big problem with Mike is he does not prepare for games. He just straps on his helmet and let’s his athletic ability take over. If he actually ever PREPARED for a game, he could be the best Q in the league.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:02 pm
As Ray Lewis said:
“The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
——————————————————-
Well how about us getting a Ray Lewis first? Mauluaga at 7, and then Ron Brace in the 2nd. Morrison is not even close to Ray Lewis. Or for that matter Bart Scott, or Terrell Suggs. I just HATE the way he runs away from the Olinemen that are assigned to block him. TAKE ON THE BLOCK instead of trying to run around it, DAMN IT!
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Khalif Kwame Barnes-Harris the 2nd isn’t fixing the o-line and the Raiders know it, that is why he got a 1 year deal in case one of the top tackles isn’t avail at #7.
Barnes is nothing more than an insurance policy. If Smith, Monroe and A. Smith are all gone by #7, then we might be able to scratch by in 2009 with Mr. Kwame Harris Jr. playing RT and Henderson playing LT.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:03 pm
If Morrison wouldn’t be a good SLB vs. the Run WTF is he doing as a MLB? MLB is where you have to be strongest vs. the run.
Screw USC Pro Day. Tell me about USC Game Day. Anyone who’s ever watched Maualuga play knows what he can do. The guy is a warrior. An intimidator. You judge guys based on how they run around parking cones in shorts and a t-shirt. I’ll judge them on how they demolish the will of opposing players during the game. Give me Rey over Raji any day.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:04 pm
# Dakota Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Khalif Kwame Barnes-Harris the 2nd isn’t fixing the o-line and the Raiders know it, that is why he got a 1 year deal in case one of the top tackles isn’t avail at #7.
Barnes is nothing more than an insurance policy. If Smith, Monroe and A. Smith are all gone by #7, then we might be able to scratch by in 2009 with Mr. Kwame Harris Jr. playing RT and Henderson playing LT.
_____
Henderson at LT doesn’t scare me as much as some of you are scared of it, the O-line was 10 times better with him in at LT than Kwame.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:05 pm
you just admitted the problem was the O-line not the WR’s
did anyone know Ngata would have that impact? No or he would have went higher in the draft
***
DMunoz26: no I didn’t. I said the o-line and WR corps both stink
so you guys assume the DC won’t have an impact and Raji will move our run D up 8 spots (like Ngata)?
yeah. I’d rather have the 23rd ranked run defense than a #1 WR … ok, maybe you ARE retarded
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:05 pm
Last year we were thin on both sides of the ball and in the fourth Qtr it really showed defensively. The rotation needs a upgrade for sure, so we must add some players at some point.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:05 pm
NFLN is profiling Maclin tonight.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:06 pm
Anybody see the Senior Bowl practice where Rey picked up the guard trying to block him and threw him out of the way? Yah don’t want that guy on my team lol
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:07 pm
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:05 pm
you just admitted the problem was the O-line not the WR’s
did anyone know Ngata would have that impact? No or he would have went higher in the draft
***
DMunoz26: no I didn’t. I said the o-line and WR corps both stink
so you guys assume the DC won’t have an impact and Raji will move our run D up 8 spots (like Ngata)?
yeah. I’d rather have the 23rd ranked run defense than a #1 WR … ok, maybe you ARE retarded
______
So you want to be the Detroit Lions? Calvin Johnson was awesome last year, they won how many games? Who’s retarded? yah next
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:07 pm
1. Maualuga
2. Crabtree
2a. Maclin
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:09 pm
DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
Our passing offense was 32nd but also had the worst O-line in the NFL.
******************************
Really the worst O-line in FB. Weren’t we 10th in the league in rushing, with zero passing threat? Did you see the holes that Bush was running through the last week? 10th in rushing, 24th in sacks (room for improvement) is not the worst O-line in FB.
The Steelers were 4th to worst in sacks allowed, 4th worst in yards-per-carry; Super Bowl winners. They have used ONE, 1st or 2nd round pick in the last TEN YEARS on an O-lineman. They have drafted FIVE WR’s in those same years and rounds in the draft.
Over those ten years when using 5 1st or 2nd round picks on WR and 1 on O-line, they have won 2 Super Bowls and been to 4 AFC championship games. Seems like they way to do things.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:10 pm
# jhill Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:59 am
Same ole stuff …
Our defense was good enough to hold most team to 14 pts or less through 3 qtrs. We’ve been over this a thousand times and even the Raji supporters don’t deny this.
We’ve also proven that our defense gets to 3rd down a lot, but can’t get off the field on 3rd down.
Our top issue on defense is clearly 3rd down defense. Anyone arguing for a DT just doesn’t make sense. How does a DT help us on 3rd and 7? Name me one impact DT that you think of on 3rd and 7? Whoever you just came up with, Raji is not that guy, and will most likely be on the sidelines on 3rd down.
Getting off the field on 3rd down is what will give the offense more opportunities.
——————————————————
Jhill is right here. I think if you are going to look at stats, the most telling one we had last year was we did not convert a third and ten or longer on offense, in 3 Freaking MONTHS!! Offensively, we were completely dismal, we had no hope, and after awhile the defense knew they had nothing to play for. The big difference in the last two games, the games the Raiders won, the offense showed signs of life, and the defense came through with stops at the end of the games, when they had something to play for. Imagine if the defense had a 14 point lead late in a game. They could pin their ears back and smash people instead of watching a 230 lb running back smashing them 40 times, or a 330 lb offensive lineman breaking off the line and slamming them fifty times.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:11 pm
RaiderRockstar says,
I understand you guys want to build a team like the 2008 Titans. Run heavy offense with a garbage QB and receivers. stout defense, especially run defense.
=======================================================
I admire stout defenses like the Titans, Steelers and Ravens. But you are miscasting me with the rest of your statement.
I was all for getting JaMarcus Russell. I believe he’s a guy that can “unleash hell” on opposing secondaries. The reason I am not for getting a receiver is the Raiders have so many more weapons than most teams. The Raiders will be devastating on offense if they use all of their tools. Bush/DMAC can be deadly in the passing game. Miller led all tight ends in ypc and was 4th in receptions, JLH will be a good number 3, and Schilens has the speed and size to make plays.
I just don’t see a Crabtree like guy getting enough touches to be that huge upgrade over what’s on the roster or what could be had in later rounds. They could get a good possession receiver, which is what’s needed, in later rounds. Looks like Ramses Barden is the guy they are hot and heavy after.
As for run heavy? Why wouldn’t they be run heavy. You’ve got two dynamic backs and a good back in Fargas. This isn’t 3yds and a cloud of dust running backs. DMAC can be electric and Bush starts swallowing up more yards as the game goes on.
If the defense can keep the offense on the field, this offense will be very dangerous.
But right now, this pourous defense can’t hold leads, stop the run or pressure the QB. And all of this with a two shutdown corners.
As Ray Lewis said:
“The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:12 pm
Time to stop wasting our breath talking about Rey MalaZerosacksSrYearluga. He is not going to be drafted @#7. Analysts believe he MAY HAVE moved into the middle of the first round with his decent pro day…if we had the 15th pick we should talk about him, we don’t and Al doesn’t take LB in round one very often anyhow, so why waste time talking about him?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:12 pm
# vegas raider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:09 pm
DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
Our passing offense was 32nd but also had the worst O-line in the NFL.
******************************
Really the worst O-line in FB. Weren’t we 10th in the league in rushing, with zero passing threat? Did you see the holes that Bush was running through the last week? 10th in rushing, 24th in sacks (room for improvement) is not the worst O-line in FB.
The Steelers were 4th to worst in sacks allowed, 4th worst in yards-per-carry; Super Bowl winners. They have used ONE, 1st or 2nd round pick in the last TEN YEARS on an O-lineman. They have drafted FIVE WR’s in those same years and rounds in the draft.
Over those ten years when using 5 1st or 2nd round picks on WR and 1 on O-line, they have won 2 Super Bowls and been to 4 AFC championship games. Seems like they way to do things.
______
The Steelers have also had one of if not the top D both years they wont the Superbowl, no nearly the same as the Raiders. Btw next team close to 5 WR’s in that time would be the Lions, not helping your point at all. Also if you read up I just said I liked Henderson at LT at the end of the year and the O-line play was 10 times better with him in. So who are you arguing with on that point?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:14 pm
# Dakota Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:12 pm
Time to stop wasting our breath talking about Rey MalaZerosacksSrYearluga. He is not going to be drafted @#7. Analysts believe he MAY HAVE moved into the middle of the first round with his decent pro day…if we had the 15th pick we should talk about him, we don’t and Al doesn’t take LB in round one very often anyhow, so why waste time talking about him?
____
Because Al takes who he wants, when he wants lol See Janikowski in the 1st round
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:14 pm
Our third down defense was not the problem, the problem was that opposing offenses could get so many easy rushing yards on 1st and 2nd down, that our defense was left defending a 3rd and short every time. Running defense was and still is the Main problem.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Vick is a hybrid QB and relies too much on his athletic ability to last in this league for very long. Durability would be my main concern but, his talent is freakishly good and can be a weapon on offense definitely.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:17 pm
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:05 pm
you just admitted the problem was the O-line not the WR’s
did anyone know Ngata would have that impact? No or he would have went higher in the draft
***
DMunoz26: no I didn’t. I said the o-line and WR corps both stink
so you guys assume the DC won’t have an impact and Raji will move our run D up 8 spots (like Ngata)?
yeah. I’d rather have the 23rd ranked run defense than a #1 WR … ok, maybe you ARE retarded
____
Okay you want the 23rd ranked run defense rather than a #1 WR. The Detroit Lions were ranked 23rd against the run 2 years ago, drafted Calvin Johnson the stud WR and dropped to 32nd run defense and an NFL record 0-16 record… I think you proved who the retard is around here.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Thanks S&B about pulling out the quote regarding Ray Lewis and his insistence about the DT situation.I have been saying that since training camp last summer.
Passing offense hierarchy of needs:
1. Solid offensive line that is effective at run and pass blocking.
2. Capable QB with three to four years experience
3. Running backs that can run, block and catch
4. WR that can get open and catch the ball.
WR’s are last because they do NOTHING to impact the time available to run the play. The WR only impacts space. QB,line and RB all impact time AND space available to run the play.
NO wide receiver is getting open in two seconds and NO wide receiver can single handedly dominate a game.
They are complementary pieces that need substantial support to help with wins and losses.
WR is a luxury that a 5-11 should not pursue with a day one pick.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:18 pm
Ray Lewis slipped all the way to the bottom third of the 1st round the year he was drafted. Without looking at who went in the top 10 that year, I’ll bet there are 9 or 10 teams in there who wished they had “reached” for Ray Lewis. If Al thinks Maualuga is that type of player, you absolutely take him at No. 7. Screw the analysts.
Besides, I saw he’s visiting Cleveland and Cincinnati has shown interest. Those teams obviously aren’t targeting Maualuga in Round 2. They’re picking ahead of us in Round 1. So he’s really not a huge reach at No. 7 anyway.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:18 pm
The renewing Williams news (one of Al’s personal favorites) is even more proof that we aren’t taking Mauluaga. I wouldn’t mind the pick actually, but we should all realize if we were going to take him, we would move Kirk Morrison over to the strong side (his more natural spot) so he could quit pretending to be a middle linebacker and we would have no usage for Williams except to rotate in for a down a series. But we’ve kept Williams yet again for another year, so we should come to the summation that Rey is not going to be picked with the #7 pick.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:21 pm
SilverAndBlackBleeder Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:18 pm
The renewing Williams news (one of Al’s personal favorites) is even more proof that we aren’t taking Mauluaga. I wouldn’t mind the pick actually, but we should all realize if we were going to take him, we would move Kirk Morrison over to the strong side (his more natural spot) so he could quit pretending to be a middle linebacker and we would have no usage for Williams except to rotate in for a down a series. But we’ve kept Williams yet again for another year, so we should come to the summation that Rey is not going to be picked with the #7 pick
____
Williams was signed for special teams and for depth at LB in case we don’t draft a LB, his resigning so late in the offseason means nothing, if he was a major cog he would have been signed a month ago.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:21 pm
Doesn’t anybody think that it is a possibility that a guy like Al Davis just might take a safety at #7? Is there a safety on the draft board projected to go in the top 10? I’m not saying I think this is a great idea, I just know how things go on draft day sometimes.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:21 pm
The best Rey can hope for is to be drafted at #12.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:21 pm
It’s interesting that this Ray Lewis quote has been brought up, as I saw on PFT today that Nick Barnett, another elite MLB, was dissing the interior of his D-line on the internet, and not so subtly asking for management to upgrade that position in the draft.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
DMunoz,
I may be arguing with myself at this stage, but I just don’t get the dire need for O-line help posts.
I think run defense and WR is our two biggest weaknesses, and it’s really not close. We have had one of the better run-blocking O-lines the last few years. Any O-line that gets Fargas 1,000 yards is a strength of a team, not a weakness.
A 3rd round pick on a Guard, and our FA pick-ups will have addressed our O-line.
BTW, Lions have only used 3 1st or 2nd picks over the last ten years on WR, they just did it in 3 years. Pats, Saints, Jaguars, Bils and Browns have all used 3 or more picks at the WR position. We have used 1, Jerry Porter. Steelers made it a point of emphasis, and they have WR’s winning Super Bowls. We have nothing close to that and it has caught up to us.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:42 am
DMunoz26:
1 DT or DE doesn’t make us a stout run defense. It takes 11 players
^^^^^^^^
Exactly! I’m not big on taking short and very heavy DT’s early with the #7 pick overall who have short arms who are going to get tired buy the 4th quarter.
Thats no good. The Raiders need to TRADE DOWN and get more picks! They don’t have enough picks!
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
The thought of a safety in round 2 gives me indigestion…I don’t even want to think about us taking a safety at #7, lol. Thankfully there are none that are even being considered top 20 picks unless you count that CB from OSU that people say might play S.
Unless you USC homers have some USC S you think Al should consider at #7?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
# Lynn from Snot Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:39 am
The idea of trading the pick with Philly is valid if they are looking to replace Mac NABB with the pick for the future.
——————————————————–
didnt they do this a few years ago with umm kyle kolb or somethin like that a second round feildgenral from a small school to replace mcflab in a few years?!?!?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:25 pm
jhill Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:02 pm
As Ray Lewis said:
“The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
——————————————————-
Well how about us getting a Ray Lewis first? Mauluaga at 7, and then Ron Brace in the 2nd. Morrison is not even close to Ray Lewis. Or for that matter Bart Scott, or Terrell Suggs. I just HATE the way he runs away from the Olinemen that are assigned to block him. TAKE ON THE BLOCK instead of trying to run around it, DAMN IT!
=======================================================
Because its impossible for a Ray Lewis to emerge when you have cottonelle soft DTs underneath. We don’t know how good Morrison could be. He’s got no boss hog play beneath him. Those highlight reel tackles everyone is pining for usually comes from an LB unobstructed to the ball carrier.
As for Ron Brace. If Raji is off the board…fine…but if not than no. The Ravens didn’t wait to draft John McCargo or Orien Harris. They went and got the best DT on the board.
Its all about building from the inside out. This year its Raji.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:25 pm
# vegas raider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
DMunoz,
I may be arguing with myself at this stage, but I just don’t get the dire need for O-line help posts.
I think run defense and WR is our two biggest weaknesses, and it’s really not close. We have had one of the better run-blocking O-lines the last few years. Any O-line that gets Fargas 1,000 yards is a strength of a team, not a weakness.
A 3rd round pick on a Guard, and our FA pick-ups will have addressed our O-line.
BTW, Lions have only used 3 1st or 2nd picks over the last ten years on WR, they just did it in 3 years. Pats, Saints, Jaguars, Bils and Browns have all used 3 or more picks at the WR position. We have used 1, Jerry Porter. Steelers made it a point of emphasis, and they have WR’s winning Super Bowls. We have nothing close to that and it has caught up to us.
_____
I agree I don’t see O-line as a major need at this point, If Barnes doesn’t win out I like Henderson on the left side and Barnes is a beast run blocker so putting him on the right side doesn’t hurt. Let’s be honest a road cone would be an upgrade of Cornell Green at RT.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:25 pm
Tom Cable was quoted as saying that the Raiders biggest position of need in this draft is Offensive Tackle, but that they might not necessarily take one in the first round. (and this was after we picked up Barnes and Satele)
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Maualauauauauga in Polynesian means Bosworth.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:27 pm
Dakota Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
The thought of a safety in round 2 gives me indigestion…I don’t even want to think about us taking a safety at #7, lol. Thankfully there are none that are even being considered top 20 picks unless you count that CB from OSU that people say might play S.
Unless you USC homers have some USC S you think Al should consider at #7?
=======================================================
Thank goodness Taylor Mays stayed in school. The Raiders should be BANNED from drafting DBs in the 1st 2 rounds for at least 3 more years.
Waaaaaaaaaay to many picks for that group.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:28 pm
# BART Bridge Blues Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:25 pm
Tom Cable was quoted as saying that the Raiders biggest position of need in this draft is Offensive Tackle, but that they might not necessarily take one in the first round. (and this was after we picked up Barnes and Satele)
________
It’s a smokescreen, would you give up what you wanted in the draft so another team could move up and take that player from you?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Barnes arrest video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0uI7OV8_zg
He later entered a plea of no contest and was found guilty of DUI.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Al Davis will DRAFT MACLIN if he’s there at #7 .Al knows that its time to do the right thing because time is running out.Why draft Jamarcus Russell and give him the receivers that no defense in the N.F.L. respects.With the receivers that we have today isn’t going to do it.Its time for an UPGRADE.DRAFT MACLIN!!!!
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:30 pm
So you want to be the Detroit Lions? Calvin Johnson was awesome last year, they won how many games?
Okay you want the 23rd ranked run defense rather than a #1 WR. The Detroit Lions were ranked 23rd against the run 2 years ago, drafted Calvin Johnson the stud WR and dropped to 32nd run defense and an NFL record 0-16 record…
***
wow. first we’re the Ravens and now we’re the Lions? that’s a big jump from a playoff team to a team that was winless. How do we compare to the Lions? We don’t have a Calvin Johnson. The Lions had Shaun Rogers and Cory Redding at DT. Traded both players away.
what was your point anyways?
Culpepper & Kevin Smith = Russell & McFadden? no. Do the Lions have a Zach Miller? no. Do they have a 2nd back as talented as Bush? no. Do they have a garbage WR corps? no. Do we run a Tampa 2 defense? no.
please tell me how we are the Detroit Lions.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:31 pm
BART Bridge Blues Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:14 pm
Our third down defense was not the problem, the problem was that opposing offenses could get so many easy rushing yards on 1st and 2nd down, that our defense was left defending a 3rd and short every time. Running defense was and still is the Main problem.
——————————————————-
I guess you missed the 3 day FACTUAL debate we had over this. I think the focus was the Baltimore game.
3rd and 5 or longer, unable to get off the field, which led to scores.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:31 pm
The discussion is great, and has been for the past two months.
The Raider history has been a team built on speed.
We have had good to very good defense, but never in the play of today’s Pitt or Tenn.
Our defense over the past have been solid, to very good but never dominant other than a few isolated years.
The Davis model is to build your defense to support your offense and dictate the team to have more possessions to score points. (man to man D)
The above teams play in cities where weather is a factor on the style of play, which is a run heavy offense a stout defense, with a lot of discipline in there program.
If you have looked at our past, Davis has always believed we need to score in our offense due to the location we play in and our weather, plus we travel to San Diego which is a common opponent in weather similar like ours,and Denver depending on the time of the year is not to bad and KC is similar to Denver. The premium for Davis is scoring, and putting pressure to defend the entire field which is difficult to do, that’s why we need speed on the perimeter and find mismatches for our offense to exploit the other teams D.
At the presser, Davis mentioned moving DMAC to the slot on running down with either Fargas or Bush at the RB spot, who is going to cover DMAC, a line backer, or the SS, this leaves open the sideline or middle field for Miller or the WR, better yet we move the SS out 5 yards from the box to guard DMAC and he now is one less body to block on a running play.
The mismatches will be better this year, a few more offensive wrinkles will be needeed, but the question is do we protect Jamarcus with a solid O-line, or do we go WR to create mismatches for the offense.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Dakota Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
The thought of a safety in round 2 gives me indigestion…I don’t even want to think about us taking a safety at #7, lol. Thankfully there are none that are even being considered top 20 picks unless you count that CB from OSU that people say might play S.
^^^^^^^
Agreed!
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:31 pm
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/boxscore?gid=20081026033&page=plays
check it out for yourself.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Dmunoz,
Wasn’t trying to rip you, you bring it on most posts, just when looking at the teams and drafts over the last few years, there is some good teams that used 1st or 2nd picks on WR’s. A lot of them are busts, but it is a position that should not be overlooked. We never draft WR’s early, and it is not coincidence that we have the worst WR unit.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Just like R.lewis e.reed went late in the 1 rd , still one of the worst Raider blunders ever we drafted p.buchanon over e.reed!
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:33 pm
Tom Cable is honest, when he didn’t want to give anything away he said “I am not telling you”. I don’t see him as a liar, just to set a smokescreen. It’s pretty clear to anyone that Barnes is not our savior at LT, and Henderson is our only other legitimate starter on the left or right side. We need tackles, end of story.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:33 pm
I live in the Rocky Mountain area – Bronco country. I got to watch the Raiders spank the mighty Donks at invesco last November from the nosebleed seats, but man was it sweet. I love to hear them all crying about everything their team is doing lately. I hear – ” The Broncos make the Raiders look stable these days” all the time. Chris Sims will be their starter as it stands now. The players hate the new coach for dumping their QB of the future and the fans hate him even more. Maybe Shanahan really was the only thing keeping that entire franchise from being the steaming pile it is about to become. I don’t know – but I love it!
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:34 pm
I don’t know you guys, you look at the teams in the playoffs and Super Bowl, and EVERY ONE had an All Pro Safety back there. Safety has gone from being an after thought to being preeminent. Just like Left Tackle. I would have no problem drafting a left tackle with the #7, and then taking Sean Smith DB Utah in the top of the 2nd.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:34 pm
Don’t forget, Ray Lewis won a Super Bowl and was already a surefire Hall of Famer before Ngata was drafted.
I understand why big DTs help, but Morrison — while good in coverage and maybe average vs. the run — would not make plays like Ray Lewis and inspire the defense with his violent play even if you put Haynesworth and Kris Jenkins in front of him. I like Morrison, I love him at SLB, but Maualuga is special.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:35 pm
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:30 pm
So you want to be the Detroit Lions? Calvin Johnson was awesome last year, they won how many games?
Okay you want the 23rd ranked run defense rather than a #1 WR. The Detroit Lions were ranked 23rd against the run 2 years ago, drafted Calvin Johnson the stud WR and dropped to 32nd run defense and an NFL record 0-16 record…
***
wow. first we’re the Ravens and now we’re the Lions? that’s a big jump from a playoff team to a team that was winless. How do we compare to the Lions? We don’t have a Calvin Johnson. The Lions had Shaun Rogers and Cory Redding at DT. Traded both players away.
what was your point anyways?
Culpepper & Kevin Smith = Russell & McFadden? no. Do the Lions have a Zach Miller? no. Do they have a 2nd back as talented as Bush? no. Do they have a garbage WR corps? no. Do we run a Tampa 2 defense? no.
please tell me how we are the Detroit Lions.
_________
player by player no we aren’t but you wanted a specific situation and I compared to that exact situation. You don’t go for a WR when you need help on the D-line first. The lions only proved that last year. A WR that touches the ball 80-100 times a year (and that is a reach saying he is a beast) does not stop the other team from running up the score early and running the clock out, which they did all last year.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Raider Dell Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:31 pm
The discussion is great, and has been for the past two months.
The Raider history has been a team built on speed.
We have had good to very good defense, but never in the play of today’s Pitt or Tenn.
Our defense over the past have been solid, to very good but never dominant other than a few isolated years.
The Davis model is to build your defense to support your offense and dictate the team to have more possessions to score points. (man to man D)
The above teams play in cities where weather is a factor on the style of play, which is a run heavy offense a stout defense, with a lot of discipline in there program.
If you have looked at our past, Davis has always believed we need to score in our offense due to the location we play in and our weather, plus we travel to San Diego which is a common opponent in weather similar like ours,and Denver depending on the time of the year is not to bad and KC is similar to Denver. The premium for Davis is scoring, and putting pressure to defend the entire field which is difficult to do, that’s why we need speed on the perimeter and find mismatches for our offense to exploit the other teams D.
At the presser, Davis mentioned moving DMAC to the slot on running down with either Fargas or Bush at the RB spot, who is going to cover DMAC, a line backer, or the SS, this leaves open the sideline or middle field for Miller or the WR, better yet we move the SS out 5 yards from the box to guard DMAC and he now is one less body to block on a running play.
The mismatches will be better this year, a few more offensive wrinkles will be needeed, but the question is do we protect Jamarcus with a solid O-line, or do we go WR to create mismatches for the offense
^^^^^^^
Well I definitely think we should be seeing more split back sets on 3rd down passing situations where DMC is split out and both Bush and Fargas are the split backs in split formation.
Bush can always go in motion and get out in the pattern as well while Fargas should able to stay in and block, since he is the best blocker and worst receiver out the RB’s.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:35 pm
In response to the blog entry, “Raiders are AFC West contenders _ really”
There’s no way. Say what you want about the Chargers being 8-8 last season, they are head and shoulders above the rest of the division right now. Don’t forget that they get one of the biggest impact defensive players in the league back (Shawne Merriman).
Assuming the Broncos get rid of Culter, I’d put them behind the Raiders. Kansas City could very well pass us up this year. Even though I’m not a Cassell guy, they are building the team the right way, and got some major addition by subtraction by getting rid of Country Club Herm at head coach. Considering they already beat us in Oakland at the end of last year, and we continue to spin our wheels rather than developing a team for the future, I’d be a little surprised if we won more games than the Chiefs in ‘09.
Projected win totals:
San Diego 8-12
Kansas City 4-8
Oakland 4-7
Denver 3-6 (again, assuming Cutler goes)
The Raiders have gotten almost nothing from the last few drafts. As such, you can’t justify expecting the team to improve from 5 wins to a contender after cutting tens of millions of dollars worth of recent free agent signings. It would be nice if we could say that we let those guys go because we had good young guys pushing them out the door, but that is not the case. The team needs a major overhaul on the offensive and defensive lines, and is still very weak at wide receiver and safety.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:36 pm
And no, I’m not at all a USC fan. Oklahoma, Notre Dame and — starting in 2009 — Tennessee are the college teams I follow.
USC does always make for a good bet on New Year’s Day though.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:36 pm
SnB Defense Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:25 pm
Good take on the defense earlier post made great point how many touchs will crabbs get??!!? and even if its calvin johnson #’s what did that do to help the lions win…nadda…..
D-line ‘09
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:38 pm
# vegas raider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Dmunoz,
Wasn’t trying to rip you, you bring it on most posts, just when looking at the teams and drafts over the last few years, there is some good teams that used 1st or 2nd picks on WR’s. A lot of them are busts, but it is a position that should not be overlooked. We never draft WR’s early, and it is not coincidence that we have the worst WR unit.
______
I agree, I also don’t believe we can turn it around in just 1 year. I think we will be going through this again next year but more likely a 12-16 1st round pick. This team has too many wholes to turn it around in 1 year.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:38 pm
S&B Keeps making sense. There is not a stout defense in the league without an imposing Dline.
DT’s are undervalued because their contributions are hard to measure statistically. Taking on double teams is only valued by the players around them.
Jim Burt,Reggie Kinlaw, Randy White, Merlin Olson, Russell Maryland,Ngata etc. etc.
None of these names from Hall of Famers to solid grind it out guys invoke visions of glory. They just help win games.
I am confident that Cable and Marshall see what is going on and we will address the Dline deficiencies on day one of the draft. Not all of the incumbents will be living in Oakland come September.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:38 pm
good posts S&B #421 & #438
seems we’re not so different.
you want Raji/Barden – I want Crabtree/Brace
either way we acknowledge DT & WR are needs.
you might want to teach this clown DMunoz26 a thing or two. He would have been better off to copy & paste what you wrote than try posting his own pea brained ideas.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Chris in NY Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:36 pm
And no, I’m not at all a USC fan. Oklahoma, Notre Dame and — starting in 2009 — Tennessee are the college teams I follow.
USC does always make for a good bet on New Year’s Day though.
_________________________
I never understood how someone can be a fan of multiple teams…are you also a Broncos and Chargers fan Chris?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:42 pm
In one ear and out the other with me regarding Raji, S&B. I don’t know if it’s your constant Raji propoganda or what, but I’m really starting to not want this guy anywhere near the team. The more I think about it, the less sense it makes to draft Raji. Your best case for him is Sands alleged poor play, and Sands is a backup. I have seen no evidence of Warren and Kelly being a problem for our defense. Let’s review the first and 3rd qtrs of any series of games you want and show me where we are n ot getting it done on 1st and 2nd down. I say 1st and 3rd qtrs, and early parts of the 2nd and 4th b/c that’s a good indication of when Warren and Kelly were playing together. No way I am using Sands as an example to draft DT at 7.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:42 pm
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:38 pm
good posts S&B #421 & #438
seems we’re not so different.
you want Raji/Barden – I want Crabtree/Brace
either way we acknowledge DT & WR are needs.
you might want to teach this clown DMunoz26 a thing or two. He would have been better off to copy & paste what you wrote than try posting his own pea brained ideas.
_____
This from the person that said he wanted the 23rd ranked run D and a #1 WR instead of a better run D, worked real well for the Texans team we beat last year. They have one of the best WR’s in football and coincidentally they were 23rd in run defense. There is your dream scenario, worked well for them in the playoffs last year, oh wait they didn’t make the playoffs. Well then it helped them with their winning record, oh wait they were only 8-8. hmmm not really sure how that #1 WR helped them do anything without a run D.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:44 pm
I compared to that exact situation. You don’t go for a WR when you need help on the D-line first. The lions only proved that last year.
***
Calvin Johnson was picked in 2007. They didn’t draft a WR in 2008. They drafted an OT. Cory Redding was a good player. Marinelli traded Rogers to the Browns. Then brought in Chuck Darby to start, a player he was familiar with from when he was DL coach in Tampa Bay.
none of this resembles anything close to the Oakland Raiders.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:44 pm
Dakota Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:24 pm
The thought of a safety in round 2 gives me indigestion…I don’t even want to think about us taking a safety at #7, lol. Thankfully there are none that are even being considered top 20 picks unless you count that CB from OSU that people say might play S.
Patrick Chung Oregon
Height 6-0
Weight 210 lbs.
2007 113 70 43 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 0.0 0 0 0
2008 90 59 31 2 0 0 1 0 1 31 31.0 31 1 0
Round two maybe a reach but indigestion hardley this kid is a stud and a upgrade over any saftey on our roster…
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Rockstar,
I wouldn’t be devastated with a Crabtree/Brace combo in the first two rounds. Just not my first selection. Now a Crabtree/Chung S combo would make me kick my TV screen in on draft day. We need to address o-line or d-line day one.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
DMunoz – I would like to believe we just signed Williams for depth and Special Teams, but we all know Big Al secretly hopes Williams can compete enough to win the strong side gig back. He happens to be the only Al Davis ‘pet’ on the roster outside of Janikowski. It’s hard for Al to let his pets go. I’m surprised we’re still not starting Derrick Gibson the way he loved him…..Lol
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Pull the trigger on a trade down with Philly.
1st rnd
Get Rey Rey or Mathews Jr
Get Mack
2nd rnd
Get Brace
3rd rnd
Get Chung
4 picks 4 starters who make an impact from day one
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Stop the run, get a timely turnover, don’t turn the ball over yourself, and throw up a few jumps balls for your elite receiver to make plays. That is the current trend in the NFL.
Steelers, AZ, Patriots and Giants (before Plax went Chedder Bob on us) all fit that mold.
Stop the run and get a WR for the red-zone (red-zone offense horrible last year) and we can win the division next year. It’s not rocket science.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:48 pm
The point was they were 23rd with CJ and what was their record? 7-9. Continually not addressing their D-line problems led them to getting worst and an 0-16 record. Your only proving my point.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:48 pm
How apropos…
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:49 pm
How can anyone be happy with Burgess and Richardson and 2 of our top 3 DEs?
How can you not see this as a huge red flag?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Dakota,
I agree crabbs/chung would not be as useful as anyother crabbs/______ pick i was just saying chung could go in the second or third round maybe not in oakland but somewhere…
D-line ‘09
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Al Davis,Im telling you now if you don’t DRAFT MACLIN you will live to regret it.Just like I said about DRAFTING FITZGERALD you drafted Gallery.I said DRAFT ADRIAN PETERSON you drafted Huff.Now Im saying again and again DRAFT MACLIN!!!!!We will see if you took heed to what Im telling you.Go Raiders!!!!!
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:51 pm
If Mauluaga would have come out last year, he would have been a top 5 pick, WITHOUT question. If we trade down, we will not get him.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:51 pm
I agree we need a WR but not this year, this year we fix holes on the D-line and Safety. Next year we take a WR in the 1st round if the young guys don’t show improvement. Fact is we need too much to fix it all in 1 year.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:51 pm
“I’d rather have the 23rd ranked run defense than a #1 WR”
thats what I said. Read it again and maybe you’ll understand it this time.
You said Raji would improve our run defense as much as Ngata improved the Ravens, right? You posted the stats. They moved up 8 spots. We’re currently ranked 31st vs the run, right? If we move up 8 spots by drafting Raji that would make us 23rd against the run.
I said I’d rather have a #1 WR. I’m done with you. Take an English class. I suggest Written & oral communications. while you’re at it, look up the word “sarcasm” in the dictionary
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:52 pm
# bank-bank Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Al Davis,Im telling you now if you don’t DRAFT MACLIN you will live to regret it.Just like I said about DRAFTING FITZGERALD you drafted Gallery.I said DRAFT ADRIAN PETERSON you drafted Huff.Now Im saying again and again DRAFT MACLIN!!!!!We will see if you took heed to what Im telling you.Go Raiders!!!!!
_____
Maclin = JLH, why draft what you already have
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:53 pm
Good point Dell #466. No need to build like the Raven & Steelers, playing on the West Coast. Except you need to win in December.
And, the Raiders have traditionally been a better offensive team than defensive team. Maybe they do go WR @ #7
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:53 pm
McDadden getting sued, and not by the mother of his children for once…
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/raiders/index?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:53 pm
Oaklifer
1st A. Smith
2nd R. Brace
3rd P. Chung
Now we are talkin’!!!! Dominant running game and improved protection with Smith. Much improved run D with Chung and Brace. What more could we hope for out of this draft?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Vegas
For the jump ball play to be meaningful you can not be down by 24 like we are when we play good teams.
We need to get to 8-8 before we worry about red zone finesse.
The Steelers, Giants and Patriots preference is to pound the ball down your throat with the run game in the redzone. That is what sets up the occasional jump ball.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:54 pm
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:51 pm
“I’d rather have the 23rd ranked run defense than a #1 WR”
thats what I said. Read it again and maybe you’ll understand it this time.
You said Raji would improve our run defense as much as Ngata improved the Ravens, right? You posted the stats. They moved up 8 spots. We’re currently ranked 31st vs the run, right? If we move up 8 spots by drafting Raji that would make us 23rd against the run.
I said I’d rather have a #1 WR. I’m done with you. Take an English class. I suggest Written & oral communications. while you’re at it, look up the word “sarcasm” in the dictionary
______
You are done because you are a moron, you also left out the fact I said take Gilbert in the 2nd which helps solidify the run even more. You are even dumber for failing to realize that they couldn’t move up any higher since they moved up to #1, what were they supposed to move up to -4. You only further prove my point by talking more and more. Can’t wait to here your next post of garbage.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:55 pm
ok. you think we’re the Lions, Ravens & Texans. I get it. whatever.
good luck buddy. i’m out
i’m done explaining the game of football to you
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Chris in NY Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:34 pm
Don’t forget, Ray Lewis won a Super Bowl and was already a surefire Hall of Famer before Ngata was drafted.
======================================================
Tony Siragusa was the big man up the middle helping out Ray Lewis for his first years in the league and for their Super Bowl. Then he retired and Ray Lewis saw how hard his job became. Then he started complaining and asking to be traded.
Kirk Morrison has Terdell Sands and Gerard warren.
April 20, 2006: Lewis vents his frustration about not having space-eating defensive tackles in front of him that would allow him to roam free to make tackles. “The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:56 pm
BoSJack
459. Entry of the day! LOL
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:57 pm
scratch Raji…was dirty at the combine
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/football/nfl/04/02/raji/index.html
OT/DE with the first two is what i say
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:58 pm
The Raiders have all young WR’s that are still developing, why bring in another young WR that needs to develop? WR gets addressed next year if they don’t develop, what happens if we take Crabs this year and JLH and Schillens become studs? It’s a wasted pick, it’s common knowledge the 3rd year is the magic number for WR’s.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:59 pm
KK
Registration finally! You’ve been a advocate of this move, are you happy?
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:59 pm
Football 101:
Run the Ball.
Stop the Run.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:00 pm
What’s up everyone. Just a heads up, it’s “The Real MaddenRaider”, from here on out. One of the Davis loyals got a jump start and snatched up the names of the more vocal critics (if only they put this much effort in building football teams over there anymore…). So, there is only one MaddenRaider: The Real MaddenRaider. You’ll probably see comments under names such as “MR”, or plain “MaddenRaider”, whatever. Not me. Those of you who know me will eventually figure it out, anyway. And the best part is these lowlifes can no longer clone us. Big thanks to you, Jerry. We finally have a real blog, now.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:00 pm
#
# KoolKell Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:59 pm
Football 101:
Run the Ball.
Stop the Run.
_______
Preach on
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:00 pm
Hey Al once you’ve Drafted Maclin,then you can address the other issues that we have.I think the Steelers got The Defensive Player of the Year in the later rounds if im not mistaking.DRAFT MACLIN FIRST!!!!!
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:00 pm
The key to improving the team through the draft is NOT identifying your biggest need and spending your 1st round pick on that position. The keys to the draft are:
1. Identifying good football players. We’ve done a terrible job of this, instead drafting freak athletes like McFadden and Russell. Jerry Porter is another example since our poor WR corps is such a hot topic.
2. Don’t trade away your draft picks. Especially the high value/cost ones between the mid 1st round and the mid 4th round. We’ve done a terrible job of this as well, notably pissing away our early 2nd rounder last year. At least this season we finally have all of our round 1-4 picks.
3. Recognize that players at most positions take time to develop. Especially OL and DL and WR. Trying to fill immediate needs at positions that take time to develop, through the draft, is usually futile, and failing to fill needs in advance at these positions is a killer. That’s why it was such a bad move to take a RB instead of a DL or WR last season.
4. Identify your current needs. Most fans start with this but really this should be way down the list of considerations. The surest way to get yourself an ultimately worthless player is to reach for some guy just because his position is currently your weakest position.
So you guys can argue all day about whether our biggest need is run defense or receiving. In the end, what will determine whether this is a good draft is going to be whether we accurately assess the talent in the draft and get someone who will have long-term value to us. We have needs at almost every position (the exceptions being RB, starting QB, and starting TE), so the only part that is really going to make or break our draft is the talent evaluation part.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:02 pm
# bank-bank Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:00 pm
Hey Al once you’ve Drafted Maclin,then you can address the other issues that we have.I think the Steelers got The Defensive Player of the Year in the later rounds if im not mistaking.DRAFT MACLIN FIRST!!!!!
______
You are mistaken he wasn’t drafted at all and was cut by another team, and the Steelers have proven almost every year that it’s the system more than the players. Porter has been the only LB I can remember doing anything on their new team.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:03 pm
Very happy. I don’t mind being called an idiot for what I say. I don’t want to be called an idiot for what someone else says with my name.
Plus all the homophobic, racist rants were just sooooooo inappropriate. I think management saw the light when Marquis Cooper died at sea. Some of those comments were just horrible. And I copied and pasted them to IBA Management & KTVU News.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:03 pm
S&B
What are your thoughts going DE at #7 and DT in round two?
Most people seem to agree with you that Dline needs help. The question is Raji worth a #7?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Charlie Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Vegas
For the jump ball play to be meaningful you can not be down by 24 like we are when we play good teams.
We need to get to 8-8 before we worry about red zone finesse.
The Steelers, Giants and Patriots preference is to pound the ball down your throat with the run game in the redzone. That is what sets up the occasional jump ball.
********************************
I have been saying we need to go D-line at #7 or at worst #40. Stopping the run should priority number 1, improving our pass-offense number 2.
However, turn some of those FG’s into TD’s last year, or some of those dropped 3rd down passes and we might have been 8-8 last year. Settled for way too many FG’s last year.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Bo Schembechler Jackson Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Maualauauauauga in Polynesian means Bosworth.
And they call me a troll
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Just a couple of points (about the Raiders, not the Lions or the Ravens; ridiculous comparisons)…
Over the last six games of the 2008 season, the Raiders gave up a total of seven sacks.
Over the last six games of 2008, the Raiders were fourth in the NFL in rushing.
Over the last six games of 2008, the Raiders averaged 164 yards passing. For the entire year the team averaged 164.9 yards passing.
Everyone talks about the young guys and how much the passing game improved when JLH and Schilens got involved, but the numbers don’t support that. What the numbers DO support, however, is that the performance of the offensive line improved quite a bit after Cable took over the team and worked some of the bugs out. Sacks were WAY down, penalties were way down, rushing yards were up.
It’s obvious to anyone that is objective that our defense played pretty well for three quarters in almost every game. They ran out of gas in the fourth because the offense couldn’t stay on the field and sustain drives. When you are fourth in the league in rushing and only giving up a little over a sack per game and not getting first downs the problem is not with your defense or with your offensive line. Your problem is that your receivers are not getting open when they are supposed to, and not making catches for first downs.
There is, I believe, a whole lot of wishful thinking when it comes to our current group of receivers. Schilens won’t get hurt again, Walker will be good as new, Sheilds will be the second coming of Marques Colston, and on and on. Those are really nice thoughts, but have no basis in reality.
We need to upgrade the WR corps, period. It will keep the offense on the field and the defense off it.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:06 pm
jhill Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:42 pm
In one ear and out the other with me regarding Raji, S&B. I don’t know if it’s your constant Raji propoganda or what, but I’m really starting to not want this guy anywhere near the team. The more I think about it, the less sense it makes to draft Raji. Your best case for him is Sands alleged poor play, and Sands is a backup. I have seen no evidence of Warren and Kelly being a problem for our defense. Let’s review the first and 3rd qtrs of any series of games you want and show me where we are n ot getting it done on 1st and 2nd down. I say 1st and 3rd qtrs, and early parts of the 2nd and 4th b/c that’s a good indication of when Warren and Kelly were playing together. No way I am using Sands as an example to draft DT at 7.
=======================================================
Raji is a top 10 candidate because he penetrates like a UT and takes on double teams like an NT. He has the combination of size and speed (for the position) that is not common. 3/4 teams want him to play the nose as well because he can hold the point. Again, Raji in the middle swallowing up lineman will give Morrison, Howard, Burgess and yes…Kelly better ability to make plays. That’s what this defense needs.
Sands and Warren’s play is part of the argument. Had they lived up to their bloated contracts then I would be talking about Brian Cushing, Michael Crabtree or Michael Oher. But they don’t do their jobs and so here we are.
We already talked about the Ravens game. I broke down the number runs over 4 yards…it was something like 22 carries for 120 or so yards or something. Talked about the 3rd down breakdowns. The inability of the Raider D-Line to make a play with the Ravens backed up in their end zone.
The defense needs a couple of more pieces to get to good. Raji has the potential to do that. Despite what you say, the pundits, scouts etc…project Raji as that guy. Period. Raji is the top 10 guy. Not Ron Brace, or Sendarrick Marks, or Terrance Taylor. Raji is that guy. He was the one invited to interview with the Lions. Come on.
As for DE. I am with you. I am pounding the pavement for the Raiders to grab Jarron Gilbert. That would give the Raiders a Base DE for the first time since Kelly was moved inside.
Of course the Raiders could draft Raji #1 and Brace #2 and move Kelly back to base DE.
April 20, 2006: Lewis vents his frustration about not having space-eating defensive tackles in front of him that would allow him to roam free to make tackles. “The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:07 pm
Well, back to what I was discussing last night.
Al Davis passed on a head coach with a winning regular season record (11 seasons), a winning post season record, a Super Bowl victory, and a previous stint in Oakland where he did nothing short of turn the franchise around, and instead opted for Tom Cable, an offensive line coach basically just trying to run Kiffin’s old system. Are these the actions of an owner who supposedly wants to win more badly than any other owner in the game?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:08 pm
Trev
Your logic is impeccable when you are around 8-8 and you are respectable. We have been awful for six straight years and our line play (at least on defense) is atrocious.
We must draft for need this year.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:08 pm
522
couldnt have said it better
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:10 pm
#522
Good points to back-up your arguement. Stats don’t lie, O-line was a strength at times last year. WR’s and run defense never were.
The same theory some have for not drafting a WR (let the young guys develop because they played so well the last two games), doesn’t seem to resonate for the O-line. They played great the last two weeks too. Double Standard??
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:10 pm
Good teams always draft for need, Charlie. It’s all these vertical game fans who want the Raiders to just take the fastest receiver on the board.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Charlie Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:03 pm
S&B
What are your thoughts going DE at #7 and DT in round two?
Most people seem to agree with you that Dline needs help. The question is Raji worth a #7?
=======================================================
Unless the DE at 7 is Tyson Jackson I say no DE at 7. Orakpo, Everette Brown, Aaron Maybin are all speed pass rushers. The Raiders already have that in Burgess and Trevor Scott. The Raiders need a base DE to play over the RT and TE. The guy needs to hold the point on running plays and force plays to the playmakers. The best candidates for that role in this draft are Tyson Jackson, Jarron Gilbert and Mitch King from Iowa.
Since Jackson is a bit of a reach at 7 that’s not an option. Raji at 7 is a value pick. Now you get a guy that can penetrate, collapse the pocket and take on the double teams. You can’t pass on a guy like that if your the Raiders.
Jarron Gilbert at #2 gives you an athletic big man on the outside that can hold up well on the run and get some pass rush.
The other option is to take Raji #1 and Brace #2 and move Kelly back to DE.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Guys, I was wondering if an owner, who’s serious about winning, passes on a coach with Gruden’s credentials to opt for an offensive line coach?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Vartical game fans like Al Davis?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Raji dirty?? He just fell out of the top-10. He will already be in the “program” when he gets drafed.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:15 pm
# The Real MaddenRaider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Guys, I was wondering if an owner, who’s serious about winning, passes on a coach with Gruden’s credentials to opt for an offensive line coach?
________
Cable won back this team and had them playing harder and being more competitive than they have in years, I think he earned the right to coach.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
# vegas raider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Raji dirty?? He just fell out of the top-10. He will already be in the “program” when he gets drafed.
_______
Warren Sapp tested dirty at the combine and fell in the draft, you sure this is what you want to drop someone for? I could go either way on this one
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
Munoz, there is no such thing as a “right to coach”. It’s a business. It’s a matter of hiring the best coach available. Do you believe Tom Cable is a better NFL coach than Jon Gruden?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
YES!
Scratch Raji off the list of potential picks for the Raiders. Testing positive at the combine will cause him to fall as he tested positive at BC as well?
Thats all we need is another overweight short armed lazy pot head to be the supposed run anchor?
This should end the Raji debate. I wonder if his man boobs would have matched Smiths if he has his shirt off as well when running? LOL
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/football/nfl/04/02/raji/index.html
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
Been a long while since I’ve posted here, but will try it out now that the registration thing is up and going.
Have noticed that Raji seems to be the new hot topic. Sure it’s been talked about, but I really like the idea of moving down, and getting an additional 1st (Philly trade) or maybe Detroit’s 2nd 1st (20th overall) and maybe the first pick in the second. Would position us to pick up one of the USC LB’s and maybe a Max Unger type.
Always thought Tommy Kelly made a better DE opposite Burgess. Too tall to be consistently effective as a DT. Thoughts???
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 pm
Charlie, there isn’t a player in the draft that we could add to make us a contender this year. So why make this year’s needs the primary focus of the draft? Annually drafting for immediate need rather than for talent and future need is one of the biggest reasons why we were STILL a 10-loss team for the 5th year in a row.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 pm
The Real MaddenRaider did you hear what the TB players was saying after he got whacked? that guy is done in the NFL imo. maybe he will get a coordinator job but i wouldnt let this psycho anywhere near my team if a owned one
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 pm
Real MaddenRaider
I for one am very glad ther was no Davis/Gruden footsies going on. I hate that dink&dunk offense, and Gruden engineered his way out of here just like Kiffin did.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 pm
#530
wasnt TC head coach at idaho and OC at ucla?
ok his won-loss record wasnt good,but he has the experience to run the offence..
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 pm
DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
# vegas raider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Raji dirty?? He just fell out of the top-10. He will already be in the “program” when he gets drafed.
_______
Warren Sapp tested dirty at the combine and fell in the draft, you sure this is what you want to drop someone for? I could go either way on this one
^^^^^^
That was a long time ago and Raji is no Sapp….
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 pm
Unless the DE at 7 is Tyson Jackson I say no DE at 7.
***
S&B:
Mel Kiper Jr. has Tyson Jackson going to the Chargers at #16
saw it just this morning on SportsCenter
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 pm
M Lonetree Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:56 pm
BoSJack
459. Entry of the day! LOL
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Thanks M.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:19 pm
You guys seem pretty confident in the drafting ability of a GM that’s 24-72 in the past 6 years.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:19 pm
We already talked about the Ravens game. I broke down the number runs over 4 yards…it was something like 22 carries for 120 or so yards or something. Talked about the 3rd down breakdowns. The inability of the Raider D-Line to make a play with the Ravens backed up in their end zone.
—————————————————–
More propaganda. You can spin it anyway you want, but the evidence doesn’t support you. So what the defense didn’t go 3 and out when they had them on the goal line? The Dline had the Ravens in a 3rd and 9 on their own 16, in that same drive, and they gave up a 1st down. The same drive, had them stopped for a 3rd and 5, and gave up a 70 yd touchdown bomb. A DT at 7 no matter who it is, doesn’t help us get off the field on those 3rd down plays.
You’re right, we did review it, but you Raji colored glasses keep you from admitting the truth.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:20 pm
# The Real MaddenRaider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
Munoz, there is no such thing as a “right to coach”. It’s a business. It’s a matter of hiring the best coach available. Do you believe Tom Cable is a better NFL coach than Jon Gruden?
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He sure out coached him the last game of the season and had his team better prepared despite TB playing for a playoff opportunity. Like I said he earned his right to coach this team.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Cantstandthehaters, I’m not concerned with what Tampa Bay players think. I’m concerned with hiring the best coach available for my football team. Gruden is not perfect, but to opt for an offensive line coach at the mercy of Kiffin’s playbook, instead? Come on.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Scratch Raji off the list of potential picks for the Raiders. Testing positive at the combine will cause him to fall as he tested positive at BC as well?
Thats all we need is another overweight short armed lazy pot head to be the supposed run anchor?
This should end the Raji debate. I wonder if his man boobs would have matched Smiths if he has his shirt off as well when running?
***
LOL. good one DKnight007!
nice post #522 Ed Teach
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Sands and Warren’s play is part of the argument.
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Still waiting for the games where Warren and Kelly played bad as starters. Show me 1st and 3rd qtr evidence to support your case.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:22 pm
KoolKell, you hate the dink and dunk offense, even when it wins, as it did for us the last time Gruden was here? Do you put offensive philosophy above winning? I sure hope Al Davis doesn’t. Because that wouldn’t sound to me like an owner who wants to win more badly than any other owner in the game…
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:22 pm
DMunoz,
Hey I don’t think too much less of him, what college kid doesn’t burn? But Goodell is cracking down on all this stuff, and Al would probably be the only one to take him in top 10. Same thing, as you said, happened to Sapp and he turned out pretty well. Although Sapp was much more highly decorated coming out of school.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:22 pm
# jhill Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Sands and Warren’s play is part of the argument.
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Still waiting for the games where Warren and Kelly played bad as starters. Show me 1st and 3rd qtr evidence to support your case.
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Doesn’t the defense being ranked 31st do that on it’s own?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:23 pm
Moving down should still be priority #1 for the Raiders!
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:23 pm
Coach Sean
I’m glad your back and keep the comments coming. I believe the best trade partner is a team that falls in love with a player really coveted. I don’t see Philly trading up, they usually operate to acquire more picks than less. The move up will strain your cap and really place a impact on that player selected, the player at #7 is not a player Philly is desperate for.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:23 pm
Edward
The offense got better because we became a run first team that deemphasized the pass. We still got beat bad by good football teams.
Sacks were down because we scripted the passing game accordingly with three and five step drops encouraging JR to throw it away when necessary.
Fact: Our offensive line could not have pleased Cable that much otherwise we would not have brought in Barnes, Pears and Satele(letting Grove go)potentially introducing three new starters next season. We might draft somebody as well on day one for this unit.
Fact: We can not ask the opposition to not run the ball as much. Our defensive line is bad. Offensive line improvement automatically helps the defense but 31st in rush defense having gotten worse for five straight years? Most rushing TD’s given up by any NFL team in the last six years.
Richardson,Scott and Burgess at DE?
That is a Dline talent problem that Jerry Rice in his prime would not help.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:23 pm
Despite what you say, the pundits, scouts etc…project Raji as that guy. Period. Raji is the top 10 guy.
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I guess we’ll see. I suggest you pull up last years ESPN mock drafts and projections, and I think you might not call them experts. And I know you’re not referring to Lombardi?
LOL!
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:24 pm
#
# The Real MaddenRaider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:22 pm
KoolKell, you hate the dink and dunk offense, even when it wins, as it did for us the last time Gruden was here? Do you put offensive philosophy above winning? I sure hope Al Davis doesn’t. Because that wouldn’t sound to me like an owner who wants to win more badly than any other owner in the game…
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I don’t see Gannon, Tim Brown or Jerry Rice anywhere and what was his record with that same offense at Tampa Bay? He was fired for a reason.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:24 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 pm
Unless the DE at 7 is Tyson Jackson I say no DE at 7.
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S&B:
Mel Kiper Jr. has Tyson Jackson going to the Chargers at #16
saw it just this morning on SportsCenter
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I said in my post that Tyson Jackson would be a slight reach at #7. I am pushing for Jarron Gilbert in the 2nd round to deal with the defensive end problem.
The issue is that the Chiefs will probably add Curry, the Broncos will add Mauluaga or Raji and the Chargers are looking defense with Jackson or Jenkins in the secondary.
The Raiders defense is largely left in tact year after year.
I just don’t think our defense is good enough to win games right now. Especially with the prospect of facing run heavy teams like the Giants, Ravens, Redskins, Steelers and dynamic offenses like the Chargers and Eagles.
Depending on the Raider offense to put up 30 points a game isn’t going to work out for us and there were too many games where the Raiders had to do just that to hope for a win.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:25 pm
Munoz, you’re basing your opinion of Cable being better than Gruden solely on beating Gruden in one single regular season game? Especially when Cable beat him with Kiffin’s playbook and Kiffin’s running attack, and when Gruden had already fallen out with his team and his ownership, and was essentially on lame duck status anyway? I surely hope Al Davis didn’t pick Cable based on those standards. If those are the the types of decisions he makes, it’s no wonder he’s 24-72 in the past 6 years.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Munoz, you brought up Gruden’s record in Tampa Bay. Fair enough. Was Gruden’s record in Tampa Bay better or worse than Al Davis’s record since Gruden left here?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
I mean, Munoz, if Gruden deserved to be fired for his record in Tampa, what does Al Davis deserve for his record in Oakland since Gruden left? LOL.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
jhill Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:23 pm
Despite what you say, the pundits, scouts etc…project Raji as that guy. Period. Raji is the top 10 guy.
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I guess we’ll see. I suggest you pull up last years ESPN mock drafts and projections, and I think you might not call them experts. And I know you’re not referring to Lombardi?
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And for your info, I wanted Glenn Dorsey, Sedrick Ellis or Ryan Claddy last year. Regardless of who the picks are. You can’t win with poor D-Line or O-Line play. That’s my position. I have never seen a team successfull with that model.
I also am sick and tired of waiting for Kelly/Warren and Sands to wake up. We have no Base Defensive End either.
So if we draft skill position players again…don’t get upset if the results don’t change much.
April 20, 2006: Lewis vents his frustration about not having space-eating defensive tackles in front of him that would allow him to roam free to make tackles. “The issue is: Are you going to let me do what I do?” he asked. “And if not, let me go.” Nine days later, the Ravens draft 340-pound defensive tackle Haloti Ngata
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Post again for you Raji backers…..
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/football/nfl/04/02/raji/index.html
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Ok,
just read about the Raji positive drug test.
Do you still want him at 7 S&B?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
# The Real MaddenRaider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:25 pm
Munoz, you’re basing your opinion of Cable being better than Gruden solely on beating Gruden in one single regular season game? Especially when Cable beat him with Kiffin’s playbook and Kiffin’s running attack, and when Gruden had already fallen out with his team and his ownership, and was essentially on lame duck status anyway? I surely hope Al Davis didn’t pick Cable based on those standards. If those are the the types of decisions he makes, it’s no wonder he’s 24-72 in the past 6 years.
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The players believe in Cable and that is important, Gruden alienated almost all of his players while in Tampa Bay. You don’t play hard for someone you don’t believe in. Fact is we beat the Texans and Bucs two teams that were hot before we put out their fires at the end of the year. Why are you so against Cable, what has he done to prove he doesn’t deserve to be the coach?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:29 pm
WR’s Higgins, Schilens & Shields = DE’s Richardson, Scott & Gunheim as far as developing talent and being given opportunities
Burgess = Walker. haha
great for 2 seasons in his career. injury prone and complains about money
DT’s Warren, Sands, Boschetti & Joseph = OL Barnes, Satele, Carlisle & Green.
Kelly = Gallery. overpaid and changed positions
there are holes all over this team fellas!
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:29 pm
Sands is an out of shape wasted roster spot.
He did not even play the second half of the Tampa game.
Richardson played tackle and Gunheim helped at DE.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:30 pm
Vegas…. I think that double standard does exist; the funny thing is that it was the O-line that showed the most improvement, not the WR corps.
Despite what some will say in here, we’ve actaully upgraded the O-line this offseason, too. Satele should be a great fit for the ZBS, there will be a battle for LT (which was already upgraded when Harris was finally benched) and whomever takes over at RT will instantly upgrade that position.
We need at least one guy in here that can make plays and consistently catch the ball downfield on third down. The ripple effect of that will be very positive, I think.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:30 pm
# The Real MaddenRaider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
I mean, Munoz, if Gruden deserved to be fired for his record in Tampa, what does Al Davis deserve for his record in Oakland since Gruden left? LOL.
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Can you fire an owner?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:30 pm
Gruden didn’t want to come back, and the Raiders didn’t want him back. He didn’t disparage Davis or the organization in public because he isn’t a punk, like Kiffin. But, that doesn’t mean that all is good between the two parties.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
The positive drug test is disappointing and shows poor judgement and character. I have to be real here. Drug tests are a big red flag. Although, Warren Sapp was an idiot too.
Therefore, I can understand passing on Raji now.
However, the Raiders should be targeting Monroe, J. Smith or Michael Oher with the number 7 pick. Possibly look at trading down.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Munoz, no it is not important that the players believe in Cable. There is a reason why teams have general managers, Munoz. So someone can make decisions based upon what’s best for the football team, and what gives the team the best chance of winning. Most players today care about themselves and their own stats. It’s not wise to let them choose the coach.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Blue collar man, Michael Vick, is going to swing a hammer for a living now. Maybe he can pay back all that money taping drywall. Ha!
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Ottocrat, how do you know Gruden didn’t want to come back? Was Gruden offered the position?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:33 pm
Munoz, just making the point. You said Gruden deserved to be fired for his record in Tampa. Considering Al Davis’s record in the same time span, what would he deserve, in your view? Hypothetically speaking? If you had the power to fire Al Davis, you’d keep him, despite his record in the past 6 years? Gruden’s record was far better, and you’re insisting Gruden deserved the axe.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:33 pm
I’d rather have Andre Smith than BJ Raji now
can’t have pot smokers in the locker room Tom Cable wants to “dominate”
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:34 pm
# The Real MaddenRaider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:33 pm
Munoz, just making the point. You said Gruden deserved to be fired for his record in Tampa. Considering Al Davis’s record in the same time span, what would he deserve, in your view? Hypothetically speaking? If you had the power to fire Al Davis, you’d keep him, despite his record in the past 6 years? Gruden’s record was far better, and you’re insisting Gruden deserved the axe.
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Never claimed Al didn’t need to go in fact I’ll be the first to say I can’t wait till he steps down. But for now he is the owner and there is nothing we can do about it so you go along for the ride and hope the old man doesn’t mess things up too bad.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:35 pm
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (AP)—A lawyer for suspended NFL star Michael Vick told a bankruptcy court Thursday that the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback has lined up a construction job for when he gets out of prison.
Vick, 28, appeared in court for the first time in his bankruptcy case to explain to a judge how he plans to emerge from his financial problems. Before the hearing began, he turned around to wave and smile at family members sitting in the courtroom. He is expected to testify before the proceeding wraps up on Friday.
“You will hear from Mr. Vick his future intentions, how he’s going to change the way he lives his life,” his lawyer, Michael Blumenthal, told U.S. Bankrputcy Judge Frank J. Santoro.
Vick is serving a 23-month sentence for bankrolling a dogfighting ring, and his bankruptcy plan is based on the goal of returning to a professional football career. He briefly left a federal prison in Kansas to attend the hearing. He’s scheduled to be released from custody in July, but could be sent to home confinement in late May.
Blumenthal said when Vick is released, he plans to work 40 hours a week for a construction company. He did not disclose the wage or give any other details about the type of work that Vick will be performing.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:35 pm
DMunoz26 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm
The players believe in Cable and that is important, Gruden alienated almost all of his players while in Tampa Bay. You don’t play hard for someone you don’t believe in. Fact is we beat the Texans and Bucs two teams that were hot before we put out their fires at the end of the year. Why are you so against Cable, what has he done to prove he doesn’t deserve to be the coach?
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The players believe in Cable because he’s new and loyal. Give him some more time to fail to improve the passing game and the defense and we’ll see how much the players still believe in him then.
Cable took over a 4-12 team and went 4-8 with them, so he has that going for him, which is nice. There’s nothing for the Raiders players to have turned on Cable for yet. But he hasn’t accomplished anything yet either.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:35 pm
Might as well let them smoke pot, rockstar. Cause Cable aint dominating anything. It’s Al Davis’s locker room.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:36 pm
# RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:33 pm
I’d rather have Andre Smith than BJ Raji now
can’t have pot smokers in the locker room Tom Cable wants to “dominate”
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I can get with that, I just don’t like a WR at 7 this year we have far too many holes to address first. WR is a luxury for contenders and we aren’t a contender yet.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:36 pm
SnB Defense Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
The positive drug test is disappointing and shows poor judgement and character. I have to be real here. Drug tests are a big red flag. Although, Warren Sapp was an idiot too.
Therefore, I can understand passing on Raji now.
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My work here is done …
LOL!
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:36 pm
Given the drug test revelations, I will have to adjust my mock draft position. Although I will say, if the Raiders get Raji I will still be esctatic!
Here goes:
1. Michael Oher, LT, Ole Miss
2. Ron Brace, DT, Boston College
3. Jasper Brinkley, LB, South Carolina
4. Mitch King, DE, Iowa
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:37 pm
Week 3 Raiders led Buffalo 16-7 at the end of 3rd qtr. Lost
Week 4 led SD 15-3 at the end of the 3rd qtr. Lost
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:38 pm
Wow, Munoz. So, you admit Al Davis is a bad GM. So, all you have basically is hope for a miracle? Nothing realistic to base your faith in the team on? I supposed your positive views on Cable are based on the same hopes and delusions, right?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Can we please stop talking about Jon Gruden and Michael Vick? Neither one of them have anything to do with the Oakland Raiders, unless you count Gruden’s mortgaging the future of the franchise while he was here being part of the problem of the past six years.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:40 pm
# The Real MaddenRaider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:38 pm
Wow, Munoz. So, you admit Al Davis is a bad GM. So, all you have basically is hope for a miracle? Nothing realistic to base your faith in the team on? I supposed your positive views on Cable are based on the same hopes and delusions, right?
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I am a Raider fan I take the good with the bad, I have been saying we are not yet contenders but I am delusional? I think Cable is a good coach he has done nothing to disprove that, wanting to give him a chance rather than start all over again isn’t delusional. You think another offensive system is good for Russell, DMac or the O-line? If so you are the one that is delusional
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Trevjo what does Cable’s loyalty have to do with anything? You’re loyal too. Should you be head coach? A serious GM doesn’t hire coaches based on loyalty. He hires them based on expertise and ability. Al Davis hired Kiffin’s freakin’ offensive line coach for crying out loud, who, as far as we know, is still using Kiffin’s playbook. That’s not a coach. That’s not a system. That’s a recipe for disaster. Cable’s “scout’s honor” loyalty not withstanding…
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:40 pm
jhill Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:36 pm
SnB Defense Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
The positive drug test is disappointing and shows poor judgement and character. I have to be real here. Drug tests are a big red flag. Although, Warren Sapp was an idiot too.
Therefore, I can understand passing on Raji now.
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My work here is done …
LOL!
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You give yourself too much credit. I would be perfectly fine if the Raiders took Raji with the drug test, because that kid will be a player. If he slips to Denver, we will find out what he is all about for the next 10 years.
Regardless, I will say this. If Gerard Warren and Terdell Sands are manning the NT, the defense will continue to be the WORST UNIT in the NFL and the team will not be successfull.
Sands, Warren and Kelly could only start on 1 team. And that’s the Raiders. Those guys have NO market value.
Let’s hope that kid from the Redskins can put Warren or Sands on the bench
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:41 pm
DMunoz, we’re all Raider fans. Don’t pull the fan card now.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:41 pm
#587 Edward, hey, at least we got two 1st round picks and two 2nd round picks for the guy. That should have been quite a boost to the future if we didn’t screw it up with bad coaching and bad drafting (Asomugha aside).
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:41 pm
MR,
Gruden was nobody when Al found him. Gruden was only perceived to be a good coach in Oakland thanks to Al’s GM oversight (hence the vets Al brought in). And after he left Al, Gruden gradually returned to his natural coaching level – AVERAGE AT BEST.
Gruden’s success is inversely related to his level of control. In other words, he needs a team to be built for him (ala Al or Dungy), otherwise he will turn a franchise into a a mediocre performer void of good chemistry.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:42 pm
The positive drug test is disappointing and shows poor judgement and character. I have to be real here. Drug tests are a big red flag. Although, Warren Sapp was an idiot too.
Therefore, I can understand passing on Raji now.
***
S&B: i’ve said this before, you’re a real classy guy. Even though you think run defense is the most important piece of our puzzle, you’re not afraid to pass on a guy that has personal flaws. I’m glad you’re not endorsing him despite the drug issue. There are probably minors present in here. No need to downplay drug use
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Charlie Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:29 pm
Sands is an out of shape wasted roster spot.
He did not even play the second half of the Tampa game.
Richardson played tackle and Gunheim helped at DE.
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The Raiders have the worst defensive line in the league. Hopefully the Raiders can get Ron Brace in the 2nd.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Teach, I bring up Gruden as an example to criticize our owner/gm’s poor management. Gruden is on topic. So is Vick, because he’s someone the Raiders can eventually sign. I don’t now what to tell you.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:43 pm
Draft Market Watch -
Center – Down. Since Mack and the new trade from Miami both are considered Guard candidates it is possible Mack gets a late 1st pick if a trade down occurs,
WR – Up & Down – The Raiders have been looking at 2-3rd round WRs indicating they want a WR BUT not at #7. Maybe not at #40 either. WR seems deep so the team may wait to grab a 3rd rd guy.
OT – Down. Barnes and Henderson don’t eliminate a OT if a top guy drops to #7 but a late rd project to groom behind Barnes (1-year deal) is also possible.
DT – Up. The signing of a camp fodder guy doesn’t bump a Raji-type. It also indicates the team is looking there. If Sands rolls into pre-draft OTAs out of shape (again) this position goes up.
DE – Still high – The team has plugged in a C, LB, DT and OT of some sorts. They’ve been looking at 2-3rd tier WRs. Do the math and Cable’s “we need a DE” talk seems to be a round 1 liklihood. If Okrapo is there…but if Johnson is there do they pass on (another) pass rush DE and wait for a base DE in rd 2?
LB – Even – They’ll likely get a LB later in the draft. Unless a trade down drops someone in their laps.
S – Big need but likely will be a rd 6 special teams / project guy.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:43 pm
MR
saw the last 6 weeks of the season
hes jiving u guys lol
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:44 pm
# The Real MaddenRaider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:41 pm
DMunoz, we’re all Raider fans. Don’t pull the fan card now.
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Why don’t you answer on the change of staff being detrimental to our young offense? If you don’t like what Al is doing then find another team if it bothers you that much. I don’t like some of the moves but I am going to be here good and bad cause this is my team. You are too busy crying over Gruden while I am living in the present with what we do have.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Bo, Gruden was nobody when Al “found” him? Explain this, then.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAxSgiGfXbo
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:44 pm
#589 The Real MaddenRaider, I don’t think him being loyal makes him a good coach. I was just responding to the argument that the players believe in Cable. When you’re the new guy, people are going to give you the benefit of the doubt as long as you don’t crap on them (i.e. McDaniels/Cutler) or royally screw up right away (i.e. Bugel). That’s all. I never suggested nor believed that we should have hired Cable. I was simply giving a reason that the players could believe in a coach without him having proven to be a great coach.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:45 pm
# BabySlash Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:09 am
LMN why are you so cocky and salty today, son?
__________________________________________________________
I just think it would help a lot to cut down on the redundancy…
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Munoz, as long as you’re going to pull that ridiculous “i’m a bigger fan than you” card I’m not going to discuss this with you. I’ll just make my points and ignore you.
Bo, seen the youtube yet, about Gruden? I find it hard to believe Al Davis was the sole “founder” of Jon Gruden when Gruden had already been in the league for about a decade, and when several teams were trying to get him as HC while the Raiders were.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Gruden accelled because he was complimented by a veteran QB, Gannon. You can give Al some credit for opening the wallet to the Balco gang, but you can’t deny that Gruden implemented a system that wasn’t Davis football.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:46 pm
# Trolls 35 Raiders 0 Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 8:59 am
La Milicia Negra Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:22 am
Trolls 35 Raiders 0…
how do you keep score? how does it work? how will it be Trolls 36, Raiders 0… or how will it be Trolls 35, Raiders 1??
LMN this is American football not European football
Before the registration I could add 7 points to my score, 6 for a TD and 1 for a PAT.
Once I got to 98 I would start giving the Raiders a minus in increments of 7 (same concept) 
If another poster would get me angry I would go for the 2 point conversion. 
_________________________________________________________
Bwahahhahaha… good stuff, LOL, talking about cocky =) LOL
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:48 pm
Trevjo, it doesn’t matter that the players believe in Cable. The players have agents, and are looking out for themselves. Yes, you’ve got to have a happy home. But you can’t just let your players pick the coaches. The biggest loudmouths will just lobby for the coach that gets them the rock.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:48 pm
Here goes:
1. Michael Oher, LT, Ole Miss
2. Ron Brace, DT, Boston College
3. Jasper Brinkley, LB, South Carolina
4. Mitch King, DE, Iowa
***
what about Orakpo?
and where is Tyson Jackson? surprised (but happy) you picked Oher over TJ
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:49 pm
# The Real MaddenRaider Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Munoz, as long as you’re going to pull that ridiculous “i’m a bigger fan than you” card I’m not going to discuss this with you. I’ll just make my points and ignore you.
Bo, seen the youtube yet, about Gruden? I find it hard to believe Al Davis was the sole “founder” of Jon Gruden when Gruden had already been in the league for about a decade, and when several teams were trying to get him as HC while the Raiders were.
______________________
Again answer the question on how you think a change of coach and philosophy helps the already young offense? You keep ignoring it but lets talk facts. A new coach puts us even farther behind these are not vets on O they are all young players still trying to figure out the game another offensive playbook to learn would have crippled their development, see Robert Gallery and every other offensive rookie we have had with all the coaching changes.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:50 pm
Taber Corn, I’m making the point that Gruden was available, and is far better than Tom Cable. I never said Al Davis didn’t deserve credit for Gruden’s success. All I said is that Gruden was the best coaching candidate available, and we passed on him and went with Kiffin’s o line coach. Not smart. I’ll check in with you guys later. I’m off to grab lunch. Hey, I no longer have to warn people of trolls posting under my name after I leave! I love this. Later.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:50 pm
MR, I can’t watch youtube at work. Pls synopsize (unless this is your tired rant about Gruden having multiple NFL suitors when in Philly).
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:51 pm
#606 The RealMaddenRaider, dude, go back and read my posts and Munoz posts again. I never said that it matters that the players believe in Cable. That was Munoz take, not mine.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:53 pm
Cable’s the best guy for the Raiders…right now. Talking about anyone else is borderline pointless for a couple reasons:
1. Al Davis – love him, hate him, or otherwise, he has built a reputation for being impatient, demanding and meddling. Truth or not, it eliminates all of the ‘prime’ or ‘top notch’ candidates.
2. Continuity – my god!!! How many coaches are we going to go through. The revolving door is embarrassing, and it simply stunts the growth of the younger players. With a young core like Russell and McFadden, namely Russell, continuity is a tremendous priority, especially after the Kiffin soap opera.
3. Cable genuinely wanted this job. This is his dream job, and he might not be the best x’s and o’s guy, and he’s made some bad calls (Seabass on 4th and 10)…but he wants to be in Oakland. And by all accounts, he seems to be getting through to the team.
He’s the best we could do, and in the end, he may not be such a bad choice. I will say, better than Gruden in one key department: developing young talent. Gruden CANNOT develope young talent…and with Russell being our franchise, and in need of some MAJOR development…Gruden would have been a bad call.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:53 pm
MR, ignore my “nobody” comment and address my point that Gruden’s (limited) success is inversely related to his level of franchise control.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:54 pm
SnBdefense,you can talk till you are blue in the face.alot of people don`t understand how important the nt is in the 4-3 under defense.they just blame the linebacker.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:55 pm
#604 you are right. Gruden’s success was largely due to Gannon, but at the same time Gruden was the only reason we had Gannon in the first place. Cable is pretty much screwed because he’s underqualified to be a head coach in the first place, AND he’s going to be hamstrung with Russell & co. Two problems that Gruden didn’t have here.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:55 pm
Charlie Says:
Fact: Our offensive line could not have pleased Cable that much otherwise we would not have brought in Barnes, Pears and Satele(letting Grove go)potentially introducing three new starters next season. We might draft somebody as well on day one for this unit.
Fact: We can not ask the opposition to not run the ball as much. Our defensive line is bad. Offensive line improvement automatically helps the defense but 31st in rush defense having gotten worse for five straight years? Most rushing TD’s given up by any NFL team in the last six years.
Richardson,Scott and Burgess at DE?
That is a Dline talent problem that Jerry Rice in his prime would not help.
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Hey man those are great facts and your right about rice….!!!
D-line for ‘09
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:55 pm
I just don’t like a WR at 7 this year we have far too many holes to address first. WR is a luxury for contenders and we aren’t a contender yet.
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I can live with that. Like you said, for a year.
still pulling for Raji or did his drug use change your pick?
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:56 pm
I can tell that’s the real MR he has always had man crush on Gruden.
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:58 pm
I can tell that’s the real MR he has always had man crush on Gruden.
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and Rosie O’Donnell
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:01 pm
Raji’s positive drug test might make him cheaper at 7.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:02 pm
BREAKING NEWS:
Cards signed FB Dan Krieder!
it’s a slow news day in the NFL …
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Determining Need. Let me ask. If you could replace 5 projected starters with 5 draft picks who would you replace in order starting with your highest priority -
My list -
Sands DT – Not good v. run or pass. Hurts TK and LBs.
Burgess DE – Need a Base DE that lets Burgess be a passing down guy. That would help brittle Burgess stay healthy and help run D.
Huff FS – Need a legit play making FS.
Brown / Morrison LB – Either need a star SLB or a solid MLB to push Morrison to SLB.
Barnes RT – Unless he is reborn here, only a slight upgrade to Green.
For the Crab fans I had WR as #6 and RG as #7 in my need list. Overall I’m looking for a Defense draft.
Your need lists?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:07 pm
Raji’s positive drug test might make him cheaper at 7.
***
anybody drafted in the Top 10 is going to make some serious cash.
we might save money by putting a claus in his contract that states “you lose 1 game check per doobie” though?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:07 pm
i started pulling for jeramy maclin a few days ago.but the run defense still sucks.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:08 pm
#615 – anyone for that matter. How in the world can we as fans with what limited access we have determine whether or not Tom Cable is ‘underqualified’ to be a head coach???!!!
That’s ludicrous!!! Simply the way he didn’t lose the team at the end of the year, told me that he’s got some qualifications, not to mention he’s BEEN a collegiate HC, been around a while, and that everyone who knows him or has worked, played or coached with him, says it was only a matter of time.
Fact is, we cannot deduce any of that from our vantage point. The guy knows more football than all of us, because if he didn’t, any of us would be coaching and not farting around on this blog.
Just to name a few that have had some pretty good success…what made them qualified to be head coaches? What is this all magical ‘thing’ that sticks out as ‘qualified’?
32-year old John Madden???
Jack Del Rio…oh wait, it’s because he was a special teamer as a Cowboy linebacker right??!!
Jeff Fisher…Andy Reid…Bill Belichick…that stint in Cleveland, yep, that told all of us 3 Super Bowls are coming…right.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:13 pm
WB Coach Sean…been awhile. Good to read your take as always.
Don’t forget we had a successful coach who took us to the AFC Championship and was dismissed prematurely. – Art Shell. Bringing somebody back doesn’t mean equal results.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:15 pm
2 positive drug tests (1 at school supposedly), and missed a year at school for academics. Alarm bells are ringing.
The way the NFL comes down on misconduct now, any team that takes him in the first better have a nice backup to cover him during suspensions. Character is important. It doesn’t matter what some of us think about pot, the NFL suspends players for testing positive for it.
Warren Sapp turned out OK? Hooray!!!! How long ago was that?? The list of players with positive tests that turned into crap is a lot longer……
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:16 pm
Coach Sean, that’s my opinion. You don’t have to agree with it. Having “some qualifications” and knowing “more football than all of us” does not make him qualified to be an NFL head coach.
Can I say definitively that he is underqualified? No I cannot, but that is my belief.
All these other coaches have nothing to do with Cable. Although, the fact that Belichick struggled so much for 3 years in Cleveland before becoming the elite coach we know today tells you even more that experience helps.
Why don’t I think Cable is qualified? I think he’s a Yes Man, I think his NFL coaching experience is underqualified, I think he does not have the connections or authority to hire a great staff of assistants, and I haven’t seen any evidence that he has mastery of some of the most complex aspects of the game. His positive traits as I see them are enthusiasm, an exceptional ability to coach run blocking, and a commitment to the running game. That’s not enough to me.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:20 pm
DKnight007: good post #627
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:26 pm
I might agree with the notion or perception that he could be a ‘yesman’. However, there are ways to get things done without openly challenging the boss man (see Lane Kiffin v. Jon Gruden).
I thought Madden, Brian Billick and Cable, for that matter make a good point about working with (for) Al Davis. It has to be a partnership. One can’t go in just demanding this or that, or trying to flex his might…instilling his own agenda without first proving his case and worth to the bossman. It doesn’t work in any other job like that.
It’s well known that when things go well, Davis takes the credit, when it goes bad the coach gets the blame, and the more open that coach is about trying to fling that back on Davis, the uglier things get. But if that coach is there to coach, and win, and it’s not about his agenda, fame or otherwise…things can workout. Unfortunately, professional sports doesn’t seem to be like that much anymore.
Frankly, I don’t care, as long as that coach gets the team to perform. I don’t need to see a HC at the podium with a monster ego (ala Shanahan, Parcells, quietly – Belichick)…I just want to see improvement, and pride in play on the field. I think Cable is starting to build that. How far he can take that will lie in Russell’s ability to succeed.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:31 pm
As for the other coaches I mentioned…it was simply to show that successful coches come from all walks, levels, etc. with regard to football. The most common theme with all of the good ones is their leadership ability, regardless of experience and knowledge.
We shall see if Cable can lead over the long term. I do think he needs some time, as the team has holes. I would like to see him get a couple of years to build this thing. But he needs to show improvement in the W-L columns. 7-9 or 8-8 is a minimum for this year. Anything better is just a bonus. Anything worse, and we’ll likely be talking about our new coach this time next year.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:35 pm
I get so tired of people justifying the Cable hire partially based on his ability to get along with Al Davis. Gruden and Kiffin certainly handled it differently but Cable is not handling it like either one. Gruden managed to do his own thing, not go out of his way to piss off Davis, and win enough to keep Davis mostly off his back, although is was a great hardship on him to put up with Davis and ultimately that drove him to leave. Cable is going to get along with Davis, but all indications are that Cable is NOT going to do his own thing, and if he doesn’t, he’s not going to win. A coach doesn’t have to have a monster ego (i.e. your Fisher and Del Rio examples), but in this franchise he has to have the authority and know-how to make fundamental changes for the better, and Cable does not.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:36 pm
I agree that all the coaches you named have exceptional leadership ability, but I don’t see it in Cable.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:42 pm
Da Bears got Da Baby QB from Da Broncos.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:44 pm
Nothing makes me happier then to see Orton in a donks uni.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Wow. Josh McDaniels is such an idiot.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:51 pm
Nothing makes me happier then to see Orton in a donks uni
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is that really a part of the deal?
I know Chicago holds the 18th overall pick in the draft
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:53 pm
think he’ll unofficially retire like Jake Plummer after being traded from the donks?
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:53 pm
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=4037373
“The Chicago Bears pulled the big upset Thursday afternoon by acquiring Denver Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler, a source told ESPN.com.
The Broncos confirmed the move.
Cutler
To acquire Cutler, the Bears had to give up quarterback Kyle Orton and first-round picks in 2009 and 2010, a source said.
To complete the trade, the Broncos had to give back a third-round pick in 2009.”
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:57 pm
so basically they trade Orton over for a 3rd round pick and gave denver two 1st rounders for Cutler?
Orton had 2972 yards & 18 TD’s plus 3 rushing TD’s last year.
still more impressive than Russell!
not bad for a run first team like chicago …
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:59 pm
see you guys tomorrow!
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:20 pm
TrevJo…fair enough. But I still think Cable is the right guy for now. Only time will tell.
Orton v. Simms for the starting job in Denver…hmmm. I love it!
I’ll take Cable over McDaniels right about now.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:21 pm
I’m out for the day guys…later.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:44 pm
Cutler to the Bears for 2 1sts a 3rd and Kyle. Who got the better deal?
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:45 pm
Pace signs with Bears
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:46 pm
TrevJo Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Wow. Josh McDaniels is such an idiot.
^^^^^^^
Agreed! I’m glad also….they will regress with Simms and Orton at QB and who knows if draft right.
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:49 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:57 pm
so basically they trade Orton over for a 3rd round pick and gave denver two 1st rounders for Cutler?
Orton had 2972 yards & 18 TD’s plus 3 rushing TD’s last year.
still more impressive than Russell!
not bad for a run first team like chicago
^^^^^^
Orton has to learn a whole new system now under a 32 year old kid rookie HC….it took Orton how many years to hit those numbers under that offense?
April 3rd, 2009 at 4:47 pm
I like cable. cable the coach and cable the TV.
April 7th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
SnB Defense Says:
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
The positive drug test is disappointing and shows poor judgement and character. I have to be real here. Drug tests are a big red flag. Although, Warren Sapp was an idiot too.
Therefore, I can understand passing on Raji now.
However, the Raiders should be targeting Monroe, J. Smith or Michael Oher with the number 7 pick. Possibly look at trading down.
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SnB
Let’s look at some more.
April 28th, 2009 at 3:49 am
mike tyson career record…
This is similar to comment spam but avoids some of the safeguards designed to stop the latter practice.. Six Apart started a working…