The silver lining
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Monday, May 11th, 2009 at 9:53 am in Oakland Raiders.
If you’re one of those people shaking their heads because three of Oakland’s first four draft picks ended up with sore hamstrings, watching their new teammates finish minicamp Sunday, just wait until next year.
That’s not to say it will be a year Darrius Heyward-Mike Mitchell and Louis Murphy won’t contribute anything. In the grand scheme of things, it’s not all that significant that they didn’t finish strong. Look at it as if they were thrown off the high-dive without knowing how to swim and their overprotective parents decided they’d be better off staying out of the pool on Sunday.
Meanwhile, players who were dog-paddling a year ago were making like Michael Phelps (minus the bong). Some of the best looking players at the three-day camp included running back Darren McFadden, wide receiver Chaz Schilens and defensive end Trevor Scott _ all rookies last season.
Tom Cable submitted Tyvon Branch, a first-team strong safety, as well, and he may well have been on film, athough nothing jumped out to my untrained eye.
Going back a year further, the Class of 2007 was well-represented with starting left tackle Mario Henderson, wide receiver Johnnie Lee Higgins and running back Michael Bush looking confident and effective, and that doesn’t even include the injured Zach Miller and what they hope and expect out of quarterback JaMarcus Russell.
“It’s good to see the guys in year two and year three starting to develop and make plays,” Cable said.
Defensive end Jay Richardson also flashed during the final two sessions with a pair of would-be sacks.
What that means is this _ through all the upheaval of his cat fight with Lane Kiffin that crippled the team on the field, Al Davis and Co. have picked and developed enough good young players over the past two years to serve as the core of something competitive.
That’s no small thing in a division which was won with a .500 record last year and a league which routinely sees dramatic turnarounds as Atlanta and Miami accomplished last year.
Schilens couldn’t help but think back to a year ago and his fish-out-of-water experience as a seventh-round draft pick out of San Diego State.
“I know what they feel like and they’re dealing with it well,” Schilens said. “They’re smart and they have a good knack for the game. They came out well prepared, and except for a little hamstring soreness I think they’re good. That’s something they’ll get used to.”
Watching Schilens operate over the weekend, aside from a dropped pass in the end zone, and the decision to take a pass on Michael Crabtree seems reasonable. Schilens is taller, was faster coming out of college, and looks comfortable on the deeper patterns the Raiders plan to run this season.
(They’re not necessarily connecting on a lot of them yet. Cable is promising that will come later).
Schilens said there is no real way to be prepared for the first weekend as a pro.
“You get thrown into it, you deal with it and adapt as bet you can,” Schilens said. “It’s a year later and I think I’m a better much better receiver mechanically.”
McFadden looked like the McFadden of training camp a year ago, consistently beating defenders to the corner even when it seemed to be strung out. He was as sure-handed as any receiver, and putting him in the slot, in motion or on swing passes out of the backfield make a touchdown-on-any-play capability.
It served as a reminder that McFadden, once the toe miseries began, was a shell of what he was in training camp.
“I’m eager to get going. I’ve got a steel toe in my shoe and I don’t even want to give that a chance to happen again,” McFadden said.
Like Schilens, McFadden, watched the rookie class struggle and had a flashback.
“You want to try and do everything perfect and you’re going to make mistakes,” McFadden said. “I’m sure not being able to go on the last day is going to play on their mind a little bit. You’ve got to let it roll off your shoulders.”
The way minicamp is set up, with no locker room, I never got a chance to talk to Scott, who spent a lot of time getting around offensive tackles and racing in to the backfield. If Scott has put on weight _ he played last year in the 240s _ visual evidence suggests he didn’t overdo it, and that’s a good thing.
MISCELLANEOUS
– No word as to whether Samie Parker and Drisan James were signed to contracts. Both wide receivers were in on a tryout basis. James appeared to have the better tryout, while there were reports Parker had actually agreed to terms on a contract.
UPDATE: Raiders.com confirms Parker has signed a contract.
Expect one or both to be added before the next OTA with Javon Walker recovering from knee surgery and Arman Shields still not healthy. Shields it appears, simply can’t get over the hump physically. He’s had no additional surgeries in the past year yet can’t string practices together.
– Defensive end Derrick Burgess, who watched practices with towels draped over his head with what the team was calling a “stomach virus” never made it to the field Sunday. Even when Burgess watched, it was away from the position group, standing apart from the crowd, rather than talking to younger players.
In fairness, it could be he or the medical staff considered himself contageous. But it’s a situation that bears watching.
– One thing I forgot to note _ Friday was the day the music died.
No more music during warmups before practice, another departure from something instituted by Kiffin. In that regard, the atmosphere was more businesslike, but it also made for more interaction between the players as they stretched and got loose, giving them the chance to talk and joke with each other rather than relax and listen to the tunes.
– Yeah, I know. I’m too hard on Russell. I realize he had three different play-callers last year and finished the season playing well in a run-oriented offense. He kept mistakes to a minimum. That’s all been duly noted here to anyone paying attention.
He had only one interception that I can recall during the minicamp, and is still smart about avoiding mistakes, checking down to tight ends on many occasions.
You’ve never heard me call him a bust, or anything close to it. He seems to have the kind of personality where he’s not going to be overly concerned without outside criticism, always a good thing for a quarterback.
What shouldn’t be happening is this _ misfiring on a lot of routine passes. There were too many short throws, some less than 10 yards, that landed at the feet of receivers or running backs, with the nose of the ball turned downward on arrival. He was inaccurate on some medium and deep throws as well, which Cable attributed in part to receivers getting comortable with deeper routes.
You can talk about the change in systems all you want, but Russell has been throwing with Raiders receivers throughout the offseason and the timing should be better. He still looks inconsistent as a passer.
Both Cable and Jeff Garcia said Russell is going to be held to a higher standard because of his status as the starting quarterback and as a No. 1 overall draft choice.
That standard exists year-round, but it’s a lot more important to meet it in July and August than it is in May.
STRANGE BROWN QUOTE
Not sure what to make of this statement by Tim Brown on a recent appearance on WCNN radio in Atlanta, sent courtesy of sportsradiointerviews.com . . .
On meeting Al Davis for the first time . . .
“Meeting Al (Davis) was pretty unique. I found out five or ten minutes after my first practice there that he hated African-American athletes from Notre Dame. And they literally told me that. They literally told me that because we’re known for using our education more than our athletic ability that he thought that I would be one of these guys that would basically take the money and run. I don’t know if that was a ploy to get me amped up, but it certainly worked.”
[You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.]
May 11th, 2009 at 9:53 am
M,
Hang in there and keep your hopes up. Ongoing advancements in the medical fields may make it possible for you and other “old school” Raiders’ fans to live long enough to see us win another Super Bowl.
The mapping of the human genome may make it possible for all of us.
May 11th, 2009 at 9:54 am
yo
May 11th, 2009 at 9:56 am
wassup Nation!
May 11th, 2009 at 9:59 am
Jerry seems to be getting a little defensive about his Russell comments, lol.
Jerry, do you really care that much about what Preistj or whatever his name is now thinks of you?
May 11th, 2009 at 10:00 am
Dakota,
If we can live longer through science, so can Al Davis. So we may still never live to see another championship, no matter how many years they can add to the human lifespan.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:03 am
still cant hit the broad-side of a barn
May 11th, 2009 at 10:03 am
Looks like Shields is never going to heal from his injuries.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:05 am
Fat turd Sands lost some weight.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:05 am
BBB,
I tried not to think about that aspect of it, lol.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:07 am
Anybody want to talk shop. This is very preliminary I know, but I see the WR corps shaking up like this:
Schilens seems to be the best WR on the field.
Higgins is our returning leader in catches.
DHB is our starting flanker, regardless of performance
Walker is probably gonna stay, as we need a vet
Murphy should be a solid backup split-end
Jonathan Holland might be primed to steal a roster spot
Arman Shields I think is done in the league
Watkins disappoints me whenever he is out there
Nick Miller might make the PS
Shawn Bayes…who knows?
Drisan James and Samie Parker are gone, once Walker recovers from his surgery
May 11th, 2009 at 10:07 am
Is anyone going to see the Ward fight this weekend?
May 11th, 2009 at 10:07 am
It’s really starting 2 look like Norco Bob was right (again).Jmac NEEDS 2 put in the over-time required 2B a QB
May 11th, 2009 at 10:10 am
Thanks Jerry!!
May 11th, 2009 at 10:12 am
Raider Dogg lays the smackdown on Mike Florio in the PFT comment section.
—————————————————
Raider Dogg says:
May 11th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
It’s a good thing that Florio’s career wasn’t snuffed out early based on his novel, like the media is trying to do with this poor kid.
“This novel isn’t worthy of wiping my dirty arse with and I have only seen the cover!”
The media loves any reason to pile on the Raiders and one day, sooner or later, they will have to eat their words. Unfortunatley, in this age of information, most “journalists” are so quick to report “rumors and nonsense” as fact, yet when they are disproven there is never a retraction.
There is ZERO accountability in the media.
——————————————————
Yah!
May 11th, 2009 at 10:23 am
4eva,
did some big kid from Mobile steal your lunch money when you were growing up?
May 11th, 2009 at 10:24 am
There were too many short throws, some less than 10 yards, that landed at the feet of receivers or running backs, with the nose of the ball turned downward on arrival. He was inaccurate on some medium and deep throws as well, which Cable attributed in part to receivers getting comortable with deeper routes.
=================================================
Easy to point out the flaws and ignore the positives. While some other reporters mention those highlight worthy grabs and catches, we get the other side of the picture that shows timing issues and small mistakes that can be corrected, thus this being a may practice camp and not a game time practice.
To say Russell spends all this time tossing these guys the ball and he should be better is double sided, since more than half the guys he is tossing to won’t even be on the roster later this year. Instead of working with players like DHB, Chaz, JLH, and McFadden, Russell also has all these other RB and WR who are fighting for roster spaces. To say the timing shouldn’t be an issue reflects the fact he can’t focus on one set of receivers instead of trying to make everyone look good because maybe he feels responsable if some of these guys get cut because his passes weren’t good enough.
I’m just sayin it’s easy to say yeah Russell should be able to pop out there on the field and hit every guy you toss on a route, but in reality there is more that comes into play like the receiver itself who could have ran wrong or with a different speed. You don’t see the other QB completing 100% of their passes either, so why point the finger at one QB?
May 11th, 2009 at 10:24 am
Regarding Jamarcus. I am very impressed that fans have yet to pick up that Jamarcus has no long game. In remembering his 20+ games, I can only recall two good long throws: the TD to Jerry Porter vs SD in the 07 finale, and a long one down the seam to Zach Miller…For such a big arm, the kid has very few to show for it…
May 11th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Yep then I blew his brains out
May 11th, 2009 at 10:26 am
McFadden looked like the McFadden of training camp a year ago, consistently beating defenders to the corner even when it seemed to be strung out. He was as sure-handed as any receiver, and putting him in the slot, in motion or on swing passes out of the backfield make a touchdown-on-any-play capability.
It served as a reminder that McFadden, once the toe miseries began, was a shell of what he was in training camp.
“I’m eager to get going. I’ve got a steel toe in my shoe and I don’t even want to give that a chance to happen again,” McFadden said.
================================================
Looks like McFadden is near 100% and ready to go this year. That’s going to be a positive when we still sit here and complain about Russell’s accuracy.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:26 am
I´ve never been to a minicamp session. But I bet there’s a huge difference in terms of accuracy between what you see in Jamarcus today and waht you saw in Gannon years ago, specially on the deep routes.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:28 am
los raiders de don rober Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 10:24 am
Regarding Jamarcus. I am very impressed that fans have yet to pick up that Jamarcus has no long game. In remembering his 20+ games, I can only recall two good long throws: the TD to Jerry Porter vs SD in the 07 finale, and a long one down the seam to Zach Miller…For such a big arm, the kid has very few to show for it…
=================================================
There were plenty of long passes attempted last season, yet guys like Curry and Lelie were unable to complete the catch and dropped passes. There were a few I remember hearing hit the player right in the number on the chest and still dropped it.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:28 am
Jmac should be able 2 throw the ball 50 yards and put it on a dime,by now,imo
May 11th, 2009 at 10:29 am
JerryMc,
thank you providing a post entertaining various aspects from the weekend rather than just highlighting dropped passes and misfires.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:29 am
Branch and Mitchell!!!!!!1
May 11th, 2009 at 10:31 am
What shouldn’t be happening is this _ misfiring on a lot of routine passes. There were too many short throws, some less than 10 yards, that landed at the feet of receivers or running backs, with the nose of the ball turned downward on arrival. He was inaccurate on some medium and deep throws as well, which Cable attributed in part to receivers getting comortable with deeper routes.
You can talk about the change in systems all you want, but Russell has been throwing with Raiders receivers throughout the offseason and the timing should be better. He still looks inconsistent as a passer.
***
NO!!!
we can’t have the Russell of last year and expect to win more than 5 games … can’t blame it on the o-line or WR corps fellas – sorry
May 11th, 2009 at 10:32 am
Maybe you are right Indiana, but I just remember those 3 and 1 plays where we ran play action and had an open receiver down field and …..you know what I´m talking about.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:33 am
fukka may minicamp-performance none of us even saw except some cuts here n there. didnt the guy had a regular season game with 10-11 completions in a row?
May 11th, 2009 at 10:34 am
display leadership in the huddle?
May 11th, 2009 at 10:35 am
only the blind cant see it
May 11th, 2009 at 10:35 am
getting better by the week in fron t of us, showing he can learn and develope?
May 11th, 2009 at 10:36 am
Your right RR, no more excuses.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:37 am
none of our QB’s in camp can throw an accurate deep ball, sounds like …
isn’t that why we drafted “LaMarcus” ?
May 11th, 2009 at 10:40 am
Looks like Shields is going to be a waste of pick.
Should have taken a D-lineman from an SEC school rather than an injured D-II WR, but hey who am I.
Hoping Jamarcus is more of a game player than a practice player, a la Allen Iverson or something like that. Gracia isn’t a very good practice QB either for whatever that’s worth.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:40 am
and those that can only see their dislike are blinded to all else.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:45 am
Sorry to say, but I think Shields is done.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:45 am
Another thing I don´t get about Jamarcus is why he tries to shake dbs when scrambling from the pocket. They weigh some 60 punds less than him, and he tries to look like Barry Sanders or something. Gotta love the spirit though.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:46 am
There is no silver lining from Peter KIng Team rankings
#27. Oakland
In every story about the Raiders’ prospects this offseason, there’s been some reference to the attitude/work ethic/study habits of JaMarcus Russell needing improvement. That’s not good. The quarterback of your team has to know enough to be the hardest worker and the leader, and it sounds like Russell is neither. He’s still young enough in his career to become that worker bee, but you’ve got to have your doubts as of now. I like that Tom Cable doesn’t seem to be taking any crap from him, or anyone on the team, for that matter. I just don’t think it’s enough to get a team with questionable skill players and a mediocre defense over the top.
There is no silver lining. They dont develop young players. What do we expect Its the Raiders.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:47 am
[...] Read more. [...]
May 11th, 2009 at 10:48 am
I want Jmac 2 succeed like everyone else Los M
May 11th, 2009 at 10:49 am
los raiders de don rober Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 10:32 am
Maybe you are right Indiana, but I just remember those 3 and 1 plays where we ran play action and had an open receiver down field and …..you know what I´m talking about.
=============================================
100% I agree, but is that soley based on Russell being accurate, the coaches call, or the WR making the catch. I agree things going back would have been different but it is what it is.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:51 am
I dont blame Jamarcus, I blame poor coaching, as in the cheapest coaching staff in the NFL…Anyways, even if Jruss turns into Warren Moon, we wont win more than 6 games if our run-d does not improve.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:57 am
From Peter Kings MMQB:
Factoid of the Week That May Interest Only Me
The blogging, the instant-knowledging, the Tweeting … it’s all getting pretty hard to follow. But one of the blogs I enjoy a lot is the football/human one of Jerry McDonald, who wrote over the weekend of three straight minicamp drops by Darius Heyward-Bey; the top two draft picks (Bey and safety Michael Mitchell) sitting out Sunday’s practice with undisclosed injuries; JaMarcus Russell looking inaccurate (including writing that Russell “threw a high wobbler down the left sideline … that missed badly out of bounds with Justin Miller in coverage.”
It’s amazing the coverage that football gets now. We’re reporting critically on a wounded duck in a mini-camp practice.
McDonald also reported that early in the afternoon practice Saturday, “a hawk emerged from the field beyond the fence at the Oakland airport, flew through the air with a snake, and landed on a nearby communications tower, where it came under the scrutiny of a few other birds who were diving at his prey.”
***************************
All right Jerry, no such thing as bad publicity right??
May 11th, 2009 at 10:57 am
it’s the coaches fault when the QB throws the ball at his WRs feet.now i’ve heard everything.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:00 am
Well, thats who Al blames, so there you have it.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:01 am
M Lonetree Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 10:23 am
4eva,
did some big kid from Mobile steal your lunch money when you were growing up?
******************************
Lonetree, didn’t I put you on the flagpole in 11th grade?
May 11th, 2009 at 11:01 am
practice……..
May 11th, 2009 at 11:01 am
practice………
May 11th, 2009 at 11:01 am
practice…..
May 11th, 2009 at 11:01 am
yep because of their “like” they are blind 2 all else
May 11th, 2009 at 11:05 am
the sky is falling,the sky is falling.get a grip people.it was the 1st mini camp in MAY for god sakes.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:08 am
Nation, what is up????????????
Dakota, that picture you posted with all the QB’s standing was very telling. I like JRUSS, and i want him to succeed. I do beleive he is cerebral enough to be a top NFL QB, BUT…..
Yes he does need to be in better condition,So he should put down the sweet cakes…..
His conditioning should be brought up, look at the
other QB’s in that picture. JRUSS needs to go veg….
May 11th, 2009 at 11:10 am
the only thing that should really be of concern is Burgess.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:11 am
“McDonald also reported that early in the afternoon practice Saturday, “a hawk emerged from the field beyond the fence at the Oakland airport, flew through the air with a snake, and landed on a nearby communications tower, where it came under the scrutiny of a few other birds who were diving at his prey.”
==============================================
Lol, story of the year so far eh?
May 11th, 2009 at 11:14 am
Peters Queen is a big a TOOL as Jerry. Who cares.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Jerry,
It’s very nice from you to respond, and I really appreciate that sir.
Also, you could be right on his accuracy with short to Med passes, but it’s too early to tell. He only started ONE year, and the last few years under Kiffin were no picnic!
We will find out soon, and thank you for response.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:20 am
What up Thec?
May 11th, 2009 at 11:20 am
Lefty12: I agree #43
timing and accuracy should have been Russell’s biggest hurdles to overcome this offseason. Sounds like the Russell of 2009 isn’t much improved from 2008 to me. I might give him a pass on bad pocket awareness and footwork if he mades some strides in his timing and accuracy.
I could care less of he doesn’t want to talk to the media or isn’t a vocal leader on the field.
He needs to immprove his game. period. end of story
May 11th, 2009 at 11:21 am
What up Nation?
May 11th, 2009 at 11:22 am
What up yo! Raider O! How’s it down in SD? Beautiful day up here in the bay. That means I’ll be leavin work early.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:23 am
O, what up Broski???????? Good to see you….
May 11th, 2009 at 11:25 am
Javon Walker says he is “pain-free”. Hmmm…should I even bother getting excited about that? McFadden lining up out wide and hauling in a pass for 40 yds. Yeah, I’ll take that!
May 11th, 2009 at 11:25 am
Part of JRUSS improving his “game” would be in the conditioning arena. Look at walter and garcia, Good
condition has alot of postive affects that could help
him. If nothing else taking pride in his body should
be a goal that could be reachable.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:29 am
Walker should have been cut the minute he wanted to retire. He is not a true Raider.
I remeber some of you pro posters were down on Chaz,
what up now “PRO-nosticators”, or “PRO-Tificators”.
Either Chaz has lit it up and will continue to do so.
I hope DHB can be our Eddie Royal. As i remeber correctly this is the guy LMN wanted us to draft.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:29 am
Bingo Rockstar
May 11th, 2009 at 11:30 am
Mistabrown Says:
May 9th, 2009 at 7:49 pm
Only Lane Kiffin & OakGlenn thought L Neal didnt fit our system, as if we even have a “system”.
——————————————————
mistabrown is not a very smart person. Clearly thinks we draw up plays in the dirt. But then again, he also thinks we kick fake field goals on 2nd down, that Janikowsky is our QB, that blitzing works on everything, and when you tell him F U his response is spell that for me.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:31 am
Nader,
Same in SD bro. sunny and warm, but not too warm.
Perfect weather. IMO
Thec,
Man, it’s nice to see You here. lol
May 11th, 2009 at 11:32 am
Oak, you and Mistabrown still fueding? You both bring a lot of good to the table when discussion the NATION but man your fued has been going on for a while wtf…
May 11th, 2009 at 11:34 am
Oakglenn brings NOTHING to the table. He is a freak troller.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:34 am
O, I read most of what is posted in hear. the job dictates how, when, i post but make no mistake this
is still the best place for NATION talk bar none…
even with the phantom posters. My only question is which one of the posters is really jerry mac?
May 11th, 2009 at 11:36 am
I just cant see Walker doing much after 4 knee surgeries!!!! 4!!!
May 11th, 2009 at 11:36 am
What did he do “before” the 4 knee surgeries?
May 11th, 2009 at 11:37 am
Whined his way out of Greebay..
May 11th, 2009 at 11:37 am
I have NO respect for Yvonne Walker.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:38 am
Thec1 Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 11:32 am
Oak, you and Mistabrown still fueding?
——————————————-
I’m not feuding, that moron just keeps mouthing off. And speaking of mouthing off, here’s einstein, the definition of talking loud and saying nothing.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:38 am
I would spend $189 on Johnny Walker before I would spend $1 dollar on Javon.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:39 am
# Einstein Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 11:36 am
What did he do “before” the 4 knee surgeries?
———————————————-
Went to the probowl. But you didn’t know that did you? You don’t know all that much do you “einstein”??
May 11th, 2009 at 11:39 am
O, you hit the nail on the head. furthermore his heart comes into question with me. Any player that says he wants to retire should, before he ets himself or someone on the field killed. Walker is not a member of the NATION… Will i change my mind if he starts catching TD’s of course i will. I will be the first to
say I was wrong, but he is a waste of space….
Cut the bum now.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:39 am
Thec,
That’s a good questions.
It can’t be Dude or Trolls, that’s a good start. lol
May 11th, 2009 at 11:40 am
Post 76, that may be the winner of the day. ROFLMAO
May 11th, 2009 at 11:40 am
Thec1
He wont catch TD’s, he is finished.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:40 am
Javon has done nothing to earn our respect so fair enough there. As a Raider fan, I would like it if we could get something out of the guy after paying for nothing last year. If not, just cut him. Until they do that, I want to see at least SOMETHING out of the guy.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:40 am
IN CASE YOU DIDNT SEE IT DAKOTA POSTED THIS
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/teams/oak/photos#photoViewer=urn%3Anewsml%3Asports.yahoo%2Cap%3A20050301%3Anfl%2Cphoto%2C1b9d334642be44a89a69a1ecf210a786.raiders_camp_football_caps112%3A1
FUNNY LOOKS LIKE SOMEBODIES DAD WATCHING THEM AT POP WARNER PRACTICE AFTER HAVING ABOUT 12 BEERS LITTLE BLOATED.
IN ALL DEFENSE HE IS WEARING 3 SHIRTS LMAO
May 11th, 2009 at 11:41 am
O, Jerry has to be one of these guys posting on here to keep the pot stirred. This place is sometimes like
a soap opera but i love it anyways. Something about being a member of the NATION other fans just dont get it….
May 11th, 2009 at 11:42 am
OMG, THAT DUDE IS FAT. Who cares if he is wearing three shirts. THATS A BELLY STICKING OUT. Believe me, I know, I have one.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:43 am
Post 83 is giving post 76 a run for the money.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:43 am
lol
May 11th, 2009 at 11:44 am
Thec,
I found the best place in SD for Raiders Fans. It’s close to you, StarGazer!!!!
Thec, it’s heaven for a Raiders Fan.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:45 am
thats my point if he really cares about playing pro ball he would push away from the sweet cakes and burgers and go all protein, and lift lots of weights.
Mix in some daily cardio. Look at walter and garcia.
WTF is up with this kid.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:47 am
JRUSS, should be yoked and chiseled, not pillsburry, or michelin man…. Hit the cardio young man, hit the gym….
May 11th, 2009 at 11:48 am
O, I have hear of that spot before… Its all NATION.
Great place to be for the astute true member of the NATION….
May 11th, 2009 at 11:48 am
Thec1 Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 11:45 am
thats my point if he really cares about playing pro ball he would push away from the sweet cakes and burgers and go all protein, and lift lots of weights.
Mix in some daily cardio. Look at walter and garcia.
WTF is up with this kid.
He’s just plain LAZY and dont give-a-sh!t
May 11th, 2009 at 11:49 am
Thec,
Was the Snake in good shape? Didn’t be drink beer at half-time??
Was the Tooz in great shape? Breakfast if champs!! Vodka,OJ, and a few pills!! lol
If he plays well, who cares? He is a QB, not a RB or DE! IMHO
May 11th, 2009 at 11:50 am
Whoever talks trash about you Jerry is in here the next day to hear what you have to say. Dissagreeing is understandable but putting down the columnist who keeps us informed is just immature. If JRuss is stinking it up I wanna know. Good we got a reciever by the way with Sheilds and Walker looking like they’ll never recover
May 11th, 2009 at 11:50 am
UP, You would think the NATION has clauses in the contract like
1. Dont under any circumstances make it rain in vegas.
2. Dont drink and drive.
3. Dont meet up with hookers and buy drugs.
I could keep going but whats the point? The guys needs to be cut period.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:53 am
O, Bro when you metion the Snake i get chills. He is my
all time favorite Raider. Yes he was drunk all the time
I will give you that but the game has changed a little
since then. The QB postion is the toughest postion in
all of sports. As much as I love Ken Stabler he would
get killed in the NFL playing keyed……
May 11th, 2009 at 11:53 am
Jerome Bettis was fat and had a belly most of his career!! Was he not a good RB??!!
May 11th, 2009 at 11:55 am
THEC
YOU ARE EXACTLY RIGHT !!! IF YOU MAKE IT RAIN IN VEGAS YOU SHOULD BE IMMEDIATLY TERMINATED AND…. HAVE YOUR A@S BEAT FOR BEING A PUNK SHOW OFF !!! TO BAD THE RAIDERS MISSED THAT MEMO. OH WELL AT LEAST ONE OF THE 2 OCCURED LMAO
May 11th, 2009 at 11:55 am
O, As usual you make a great point…. To me it would just show us that he is improving in all facets of his game, conditioning included.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:56 am
By the way, I never insulted Jerry.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:57 am
NATION,
I gotta go…. All you guys keep up the Good NATION talk.
1 NATION and only 1 NATION…..
RAIDER NATION.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:58 am
POST 99
JEROME WAS THE SAME SIZE FROM HIS NECK TO HIS KNEES JMAC LOOKS LIKE HES IN HES BETWEEN 4-5 MONTHS PREGNANT
May 11th, 2009 at 11:58 am
The issue with “Jivin” Walker is he should have had micro surgery when he was still in Denver. It’s a pretty nasty procedure, and he opted not to do it. So, Denver cut him. We thought he could play thru the pain and so did he. He can’t. He restructured his deal, but chances are, his playing days are over.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:59 am
PLEASE DONT HOLD THAT GRAMMER AGAINST ME MAYBE I SHOULD PROOF READ MY POSTS LOL
May 11th, 2009 at 12:00 pm
Thec,
I get it now, you see the Belly as a reflection of his bad work ethic, correct?
May 11th, 2009 at 12:00 pm
It’s a great week to be a Raiders fan. Isn’t it?
Seems like the first Mini was just what most of us expected — except for JaMarcus missing too many “easy” passes. But, much like JaMarcus, I say it’s no big deal — when he plays, he moves with a natural athleticism that can’t be taught.
Once the offensive players (all of them) stop letting their thinking get in the way of their natural abilities, the offense can be a machine. We’re about to find out just how valuable Zach Miller is, too — hernias aren’t always too easy to come back from (just ask R. Brown).
Take out the still ongoing Javon Walker babysitting, and Al Davis has done what most of his critics used to complain about him NEVER doing — he has almost completely rebuilt his team with youth and energy.
Now, if the veterans (yes, even Javon, until they milk every ounce they can get from him. The guy knows how to play — he just hasn’t been doing it) help get these young guys accustomed and ready to play at the top level, the grand Raiders change-over will be complete. On the field, at least. That’s really got to chap the haters’ hides.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
ULE,
lol,
May 11th, 2009 at 12:03 pm
I KNOW WHAT WE COULD DO WITH JAVON WALKER !!!!!
WE WILL THROW HIM BALLS OVER THE MIDDLE AND LET MITCHELL PRACTICE HITTING AN NFL RECIEVER WHAT DO YOU GUYS THINK ????
May 11th, 2009 at 12:03 pm
Thec,
If that’s the case, then you do have a point there. I can agree with that.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:04 pm
Oakglenn, Walker just needs to hang it up. Let the young guys go at it. What do we have to lose?
May 11th, 2009 at 12:05 pm
Javon Walker might be “pain free” but his knee won’t hold up in an NFL game until he’s close to 100 percent.
Might be another 6 months before he can even start running.
I think Walker & O’Neal will both start out on the PUP list
May 11th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
A guy like Quinn may show a better work ethic, but that didn’t help him when he started for the Browns.
Now, if you have both, Talent and a good Work Ethic!!! wow!!!
He is only 22, and he has lots if Talent. He may develop a better work ethic later as be grows up. God knows I made a lot of mistakes when I was his age. lol
May 11th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
Hey Brien. It’s always the dumbest ones mouthing off the loudest. There’s the amazing firm grasp of the obvious morons: “Alvis Whitted sucks!!!” Then there are the complete utter moronic “Cut Michael Bush and put in Echemondu!!!!” Unbelievable.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
oh that conniving jack-azz
May 11th, 2009 at 12:09 pm
If talent: of Talent. Sorry.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:10 pm
Russell needs to step his game up. He has no excuse now
May 11th, 2009 at 12:11 pm
“Jivin” is done. I would be very very surprised to see him hit the field and be productive. Especially missing the mini camps. If he is not ready the first day of training camp and looking real good, it’s going to be a problem.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
I LOSE SLEEP AT NIGHT THINKING THERES A CHANCE THAT FARGAS WILL BE HIGHER ON THE DEPT CHART THAN BUSH,
I MUST BE SICK !!!!
May 11th, 2009 at 12:13 pm
We need to make a move for Dockett!
May 11th, 2009 at 12:14 pm
Brien,
I will give him this year and the next to prove himself, and then I can tell. This will be his 2nd season as a starter with new coaches, so it may take another year. IMHO
May 11th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Tommy Kelly will shut you punks up this year and damn near make the pro bowl.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Bri, Russell is not a guy I worry about. I don’t worry about his size, I don’t worry about his accuracy, I don’t worry about him. ULE, Expect Fargas to start. At least initially.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
I sure hope so.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:18 pm
It’s only May!!!!!
May 11th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
I think Tommy Kelly is poised for a breakout year too.
hopefully he can limit the offsides penalties though and still be hungry and aggressive.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
Looks like Turd Sands has lost some weight.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
O, I have always been hard on Jruss and Im a black guy. I have issues with his dedication and party habits. He aint doing his job.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Russell would’ve stepped-up his game earlier, had Kiffie loosened the reins a little bit.
Check-down school is one thing…but, handcuffing a raw talent like JaMarcus — who needs repetitions more than anything — should be criminal. Kiffin should’ve been fired just for that.
Russell most certainly has no excuses this year — as long as the rest of his offense carries their respective weight (pun intended).
Don’t care if JaMarcus weighs 270 lbs! Care if he can carry that weight comfortably, and if he still moves smoothly in/out of the pocket. As long as his speed and athleticism are intact, JaMarcus’ weight shouldn’t be an issue — his body is what it is. Miss California he ain’t.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:21 pm
Kelly a breakout year? What kind of breakout year Rockstar? Record setting offsides season?
May 11th, 2009 at 12:23 pm
Dakota,
1- did you read my posts yesterday about the Lakers?
2- how are you today?
3- did you break anymore tables?
May 11th, 2009 at 12:23 pm
It’s Kiffin’s fault Russell didn’t sign his contract until the begining of the season? lol good one.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
I agree with Raider O …
Russell deserves another 2 FULL seasons as a starter before we start using the B-word
without any coaching changes.
Cable/Hackett/Tollner for 2009 and 2010
if they can’t win more than 8 games it may be time to try Weird Al at HC
May 11th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
RaiderO,
1. no, go find it and re-post it;
2. just fine, we won one in Houston, that’s what we had to do, and;
3. no tables broken this time…I just sadly shook my head in disappointment.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
Brien,
” and I’m a black guy”
LMAO
Boy, you craazy!! lol
May 11th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Brien the General 510 Says:
O, I have always been hard on Jruss and Im a black guy. I have issues with his dedication and party habits. He aint doing his job.
———————————————
Brientheprivate — Just what are JaMarcus’s party habits? How is he not dedicated?
He’s been at everything Cable wants him to be at, and his teammates and coaches all respect him. Those all seem like good things to me. The fact that he’s young is much different than the fact that he’s not doing what’s expected of him.
If he’s not doing what he’s supposed to be doing, and he’s partying too much, where’s your info coming from?
May 11th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Lakers are too soft Dakota. Get over it they not winning the title.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Hayes, the Private stuff you stole from Bo. Be original at least.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Dakota,
lol
Forget the posts from yesterday!! You can imagine, I was having some fun since I know how much you love Lakers. lol
May 11th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Sands finally put down the twinkies.
he must have seen dan marino and mike golic on the weight watchers commericals …
chris berman and larry the cable guy are also on them thangs
May 11th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Kobe’s Fakers going down? Yow!! I mean, Yao!
May 11th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
I’m also not sold on Kelly’s new found desire to actually be out there. Sure Cable put him on a short leash and Sands might be in better shape, but does that stop the run? Does a few offsides penalty’s help keep the D off the field and more offense? I’d love to believe they will improve but without some bodies on the Defensive line to compete and make these guys earn their spots rather than reward with huge contracts, this team will still be the bottom of the leage vs the run. Guess our wins will come if we score more than the opposing team.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Im in my late 20s Hayes living in the Bay Area. You see all these guys out at the clubs. Russell like Farglass need to tone it down
May 11th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
As to the poor performance of Russell and DHB thjis weekend I say, “It’s only May!!!”
As to the poor performance of the Lakers on Sunday I say, “IT’S FUKING MAY YOU PUSSIES!!!!”
May 11th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Hayes, you dont go out where I go do you? Raider players have been since I was an adult
May 11th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
Actually, BrienthePrivate — You lmow I started using it a while ago, and I dig how it bothers you so. You have no idea what a military member goes through on a daily basis, and your embarrassing and oft-times vile posts show a lack of respect that would (thankfully) keep a guy like you out of the military. I’m thinking you know about dishonorable discharges of all sorts.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:34 pm
Hayes I was at the Oaktree underage the nite before the 2000 afc title game. Guess who was there? What happened the next day?
May 11th, 2009 at 12:34 pm
I stopped watching after the 3rd!!
I like the Cavs and King James. I remember my Only BB game that I ever attended. Cavs and Rockets, Sir Charles was playing. I was yelling Cavs Suck the entire game. I was drunk! lol
May 11th, 2009 at 12:36 pm
Dakota,
LMFAO,
Still
LMAO
May 11th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
Kelly and Sands are not the problem — and they weren’t the problem last year. They may have not been the answer, but they were definitely not the problem last year.
Not mentioned by anyone in here:
How bad is G. Warren’s bicep injury? If it’s torn, really torn, he could be done before the year even starts. Now, that would affect Kelly, Sands, and the rest of the D-line as much as anything. Warren fits a need.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:43 pm
Sands being fat and playing too high was a problem
May 11th, 2009 at 12:45 pm
More name-calling fro the master. More, please, Bri — it’s the only way you feel good about yourself, apparently. So mature — you sure you’re not stuck in that “underage?” What a guy.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Gerard Warren is a backup UT at best. He cant start again or we are in trouble
May 11th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
Master of the Beta males. Hayes you are soft and always have been. This makes me mad when betas claim Raiders knowing he should be a 49er
May 11th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
Aw Dakota and his love for the storm troopers lol. Zeig Heil!
May 11th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
HayesDaze37 Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
Kelly and Sands are not the problem — and they weren’t the problem last year. They may have not been the answer, but they were definitely not the problem last year.
===============================================
Not the problem? I guess I wasn’t watching them get pushed around and knocked to the ground as running backs strolled right past them game after game. If the front 4 aren’t to blame, please, enlighten me.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
Dakota, how will it feel when Kobe never wins without Shaq.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
IndianaRaider, lol!
May 11th, 2009 at 12:53 pm
Russell could crap gold and the Denver trolls in here would complain that it isn’t platinum.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Brien, how would I know since he is going to win titles without Shaq?
May 11th, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Kelly wasnt 100 pct and play was affected by being doubled since we had trash at NT
May 11th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Brien,
What clubs do Russell and Fargas frequent?
May 11th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
even if he was 80%, even if he was double teamed, thats reason to say he isn’t a factor and isn’t the be blamed? lol, the whole line is to blame.
May 11th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
Dakota this is your last chance and Kobe knows it. James is now the premier face in the NBA. The Cavs have the BEST TEAM. They are playing for each other.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
At times last year on D, it seemed that unless Kelly made a play in the backfield or Gibril stepped into the box to make a play, those were our only real chances to stop a run from getting 6+ yards. Our DE and LB’s rarely made plays at or near the line of scrimmage.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
Lukas,Arselimos. Air Lounge,Easy Lounge, Kittys and Kimbles. That just the east bay. But dont think they are the only ones. They all party too much. Also the clubs in concord
May 11th, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Brien,
The Cavs aren’t bad, but let’s just see how it all plays out.
As to Lebron, I’m not saying anything bad about him because he will eventually be a Laker anyhow…his advertising contracts have clauses in them that greatly increase his pay if he plays in NY or LA, and we all know the Lakers always get their man.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Kobe Bryant and Phil Jackson are scumbags.
I hope they lose …
May 11th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Frank Youell aka Laney College, how bout San Jose clubs when they hang with the 49er players? Frisco clubs that are high class? They all out there
May 11th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
Dakota that was a legit post
May 11th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
vegas raider Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
At times last year on D, it seemed that unless Kelly made a play in the backfield or Gibril stepped into the box to make a play, those were our only real chances to stop a run from getting 6+ yards. Our DE and LB’s rarely made plays at or near the line of scrimmage.
==================================================
I think we have all agree’d here that we had a problem last season in reguards to lack of depth on side of the LB’s and our DE were either undersized or green to the position, lack of NFL experience. When Burgess went down to injury, we had a decent pass rush when used but still couldn’t stop the run.
How do we fix that? We released Edwards who had 5 sacks, and plenty of tackles. We sign another small DT to give “depth” if you want to call that it, and then draft and sign 4-5 LB/DE players. Will that fix things? No, maybe show a slight improvement. But the fact remains that even if Kelly wasn’t 100% and Sands was overweight, that they helped fuel our gap against the run.
Not blaming the defensive line for slowing/stopping the run is like saying Barrett Robbins didn’t cost us the SB because his head wasn’t right.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:13 pm
At times last year on D, it seemed that unless Kelly made a play in the backfield or Gibril stepped into the box to make a play, those were our only real chances to stop a run from getting 6+ yards. Our DE and LB’s rarely made plays at or near the line of scrimmage.
***
I agree Vegas.
Thats why we’re giving guys like Trevor Scott, Greyson Gunheim, Matt Shaughnessy, Derrick Gray and Desmond Bryant a chance to replace Edwards and unseat Burgess & Richardson …
We’re also giving guys like Slade Norris, Stryker Sulak, David Nixon and Frantz Joseph a chance to replace Robert Thomas and unseat Jon Alston …
May 11th, 2009 at 1:18 pm
IndianaRaider : sounds like you’ve never heard of Rob Ryan
here’s all you need to know about him. his defenses couldn’t stop the run all 5 years as Def. Coordinator
0-10 vs. the Chargers during that span
he’s gone. finally. John Marshall has a difficult task in taking these guys who have been brainwashed to accept a lack of accountability and discipline. lack of focus, aggression and swagger.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Rockstar…don’t forget about the lack of pizza and nap breaks too…
May 11th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
don’t forget about the lack of pizza and nap breaks too…
***
LOL. I don’t get how Lane Kiffin made all the players eat nothing but wheat, barley, rice, grass, dirt and bark last offseason yet almost all the players on the d-line came in overweight and out of shape. It’s obvious Rob Ryan didn’t care what they ate. especially since Lane wanted the slob ousted prior to the 2008 NFL season …
May 11th, 2009 at 1:30 pm
los raiders de don rober Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 10:24 am
Regarding Jamarcus. I am very impressed that fans have yet to pick up that Jamarcus has no long game. In remembering his 20+ games, I can only recall two good long throws: the TD to Jerry Porter vs SD in the 07 finale, and a long one down the seam to Zach Miller…For such a big arm, the kid has very few to show for it…
=================================
Not only did he have 3 play callers and no wide receivers of consequence, he had no one blocking at the tackle position.
Kind of hard to launch the deep ball when Kwame Harris and Cornell Green are attempting to protect.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
One certainty, not just to my eyes, but to the coaches’ and to the owner’s eyes: As “bad” as the interior of the D-line looked last year, THE breakdown on the D-line was at the edges.
Saying a guy played “too high” is like saying a WR has “suspect hands” coming out of college. There are many reasons for the way a player plays on game day — injuries, body weight, preparation or lack thereof, OTHER PLAYERS, etc…
Kelly and Sands were as sound as any players on the defense last year (big exception being Nnamdi, of course). Most damage done to this defense wasn’t done running through those guys — and they weren’t pushed out of their gaps as a rule. Once the edges broke-down, either by DE’s or LB’s (quite frequently), the entire run defense broke-down.
Expecting a 335+lb D-lineman to chase down a RB from behind once he’s cleared the edge just isn’t realistic.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
The Raiders are implementing a new offense…AGAIN! The Raiders have new coaches…AGAIN! The Raiders had unqualified coaches in there last year…AGAIN! A quarterback, receiver, linebacker…etc…rely on having consistent, good coaching and people around them to help them develop.
Al Davis’ problem is he historically has not respected the role coaches play in developing the team.
Its easy to blame Russell etc…for the play on the field…but lets remember…all these guys were highly regarded coming out of college…its the circus atmosphere the last 6 yrs that’s retarded the development of young players like Russell, Robert Gallery and Michael Huff….Look at guys like Tyler Brayton, Fabian Washington, Phillip Buchanon find success after they leave Oakland.
Look, Russell is about a year behind in his development. Most of that is because of the chaos around him. The holdout was ridiculous, the coaching changes, the lack of talent around him…all of it…held him back at least a year.
As you guys bash him and pray for Jeff Garcia..think about this…what environment did Rothlisberger play under…the Mannings…Matt Ryan…Joe Flacco….Jay Cutler????
You’re not being honest with yourselves when you do the comparison.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
I think we have all agree’d here that we had a problem last season in reguards to lack of depth on side of the LB’s and our DE were either undersized or green to the position, lack of NFL experience. When Burgess went down to injury, we had a decent pass rush when used but still couldn’t stop the run.
========================================
Correct.
On many of the longer runs Oakland surrendered players like Branch, Edwrads, Alston, Sam Willimas, William Joseph ect. were on the field.
===================================
How do we fix that? We released Edwards who had 5 sacks, and plenty of tackles. We sign another small DT to give “depth” if you want to call that it, and then draft and sign 4-5 LB/DE players. Will that fix things? No, maybe show a slight improvement. But the fact remains that even if Kelly wasn’t 100% and Sands was overweight, that they helped fuel our gap against the run.
===================================
Edwards was unable to pass a physical and his production had slipped toward the end of the season.
Our new undersized DT is most likely camp fodder. Never know, depth is needed with the behemoths we’ve got.
The run defense will be improved if Oakland can put points on the board and sustain drives that keep the D fresher later in the game.
====================================
Not blaming the defensive line for slowing/stopping the run is like saying Barrett Robbins didn’t cost us the SB because his head wasn’t right.
==================================
Actually, Adam Treu started for Robbins and faired remarkably well all things considered.
Robbins was a distraction, but the real culprit was having the caoch that built the Raiders SB team on the opposite side of the field.
Aided by idiot Bill Callahan, the man who replaced Gruden, who decided not to change many of the names of the plays Oakland ran that day per Callhans orders.
Tampa was so well prepared they said it felt like they had Oakland play book and in effect, they did.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
as a rule most Raider fans never want to blame the DC.
a poor run defense will be placed squarely on the shoulders of Stuart Schweigert or Michael Huff before they ever admit coaching or scheme might be a problem …
we’ve had different players along the defensive front seven every season, yet somehow we always blame the personnel. We could add Albert Haynesworth, Marcus Stroud, Julius Peppers and Jared Allen in the offseason and if we finish 31st against the run somehow those players didn’t execute. maybe they had a down year?
Then you’ve got Tyler Brayton & Fabian Washington who were cast aside in favor of Jay Richardson & Stanford Routt. Then they become starters on playoff teams less than 1 year removed from being 3rd string in Oakland.
yeah. it’s all the players fault!
May 11th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
On a positive…its good to see that Chaz Schilens is building on the momentum he generated last year. I still think he’s the best receiver on the team. He’s big, fast and loves to block. He’ll help the running game and put pressure on defenses vertically.
As long as he keeps developing through the offseason.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:46 pm
SnB Defense Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
“Look at guys like Tyler Brayton, Fabian Washington, Phillip Buchanon find success after they leave Oakland.”
==========================
Seriously?
Thats a joke right?
====================
SB said:
“Look, Russell is about a year behind in his development. Most of that is because of the chaos around him. The holdout was ridiculous, the coaching changes, the lack of talent around him…all of it…held him back at least a year.”
==================================
It didn’t help, but there was no way Russell was expected to play year one after Oakland gave up nearly 60 sacks the year before.
The ZBS had yet to establish itself and Russell came out a Junior after only one really productive season.
The intent was to bring him along slowly and thats what they’ve done.
Even if he falters this year, he’s got 2010 to prove he’s the shizz.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:48 pm
Cutler hasn’t proven anything, either.
Flacco and Ryan may or may not be as good as last year showed us — their teams had an awful lot to do with their success…and our team didn’t even know they were one until the end of the year.
Russell being a year “behind” in his development isn’t even an issue to knowledgable football people. He started out a year behind, regardless of his ill-advised and fateful holdout. Football people know that Russell only left college when he did because he could maximize his earning$ potential. If and WHEN the kid matures and the light comes on, we’ll be glad he plays for us and not for the bad guys.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
Nnamdi21,
Those guys I mentioned (Brayton, Washington and Buchanon) did find success after they left Oakland. They all found STARTING jobs for defenses that were far more successfull and accomplished than ANYTHING Oakland has put out on the field in 6 years.
Brayton would have been a fine base DE if the Raiders believed in having a Base DE. Buchanon started for 5 years in Tampa and is projected to start in Detroit. Fabian is the starter for one of the best defenses in the NFL.
The Raiders coaching quality has been absolute zero for most of this decade because Al Davis doesn’t know how to hire and manage coaching staffs. Maybe Tom Cable is the guy that can turn it all around. But historically that has not been the case.
The inconsistent coaching has hurt all the young talent on this roster
May 11th, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Cutler probably had more 300 yard passing games last year than Russell has had 200 yard passing games in all of his starts. Russell is nowhere near Cutler’s level yet.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Jamarcus is probably a guy who always had a bad work ethic yet excelled on the field. His talents carried him through it.
Until he experiences complete failure, which he hasn’t yet in fact he continued to improve almost every week, he won’t change his ways. That’s just the way it is, he doesn’t see why he should change things if he experiences success, and I hate it but would agree with him.
I know I continue to blog and screw off during the beginnings of months, because I can turn it on and make my month the last week. Me and Jamarcus are of the same ilk.
Just do what you do Jamarcus, and let the haters hate.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Only way the Cavs beat the Lakers in a 7 game series is if the corrupt League wants it to happen.
You know….by the REFS causing the Cavs to get all the calls and have the momentum changing calls go the Cavs way.
Still…the NBA is not as much of a joke as MLB.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
It seems as if Al Davis thinks his organization is simply a turnkey operation. I guess he figured everything out 40 yrs agoe about winning football and building winning teams.
You plug-in players of a certain Ht- Wt- Speed ratios.
They will be met by Al Davis and filled with Lore.
They will be told about the 4 man rush, Bump n’ Run, and the concepts of the Vertical Offense.
And they will go forward, and Conquer and defend the Legacy of Ceasar (Al Davis)
Simple. Don’t need no stinkin Coaches.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
SnB — So, as bad as it hurts, and as hard as it is to do so…putting aside the personnel and coaching mistakes 2000-2008, has the team done anything right lately?
In this world of “what have you done for me lately,” I say the Raiders have done an awful lot for themselves, and for me lately. Now, they need to make it translate to the field on game day.
May 11th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
SnB Defense Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
Nnamdi21,
Those guys I mentioned (Brayton, Washington and Buchanon) did find success after they left Oakland. They all found STARTING jobs for defenses that were far more successfull and accomplished than ANYTHING Oakland has put out on the field in 6 years.
Brayton would have been a fine base DE if the Raiders believed in having a Base DE. Buchanon started for 5 years in Tampa and is projected to start in Detroit. Fabian is the starter for one of the best defenses in the NFL.
The Raiders coaching quality has been absolute zero for most of this decade because Al Davis doesn’t know how to hire and manage coaching staffs. Maybe Tom Cable is the guy that can turn it all around. But historically that has not been the case.
The inconsistent coaching has hurt all the young talent on this roster
^^^^^^
Exactly….and that is all the old stubborn mans fault.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
This team needs to get stronger…mentally and physically and get in shape!
May 11th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
By the way, the wife bought me an authentic Russell jersey yesterday for the B-day, yes my B-day was on Mothers day this year, so I am now an unabashed supporter and charter member of kool-aid drinking Jamarcus is going to be great club.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:01 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
as a rule most Raider fans never want to blame the DC.
a poor run defense will be placed squarely on the shoulders of Stuart Schweigert or Michael Huff before they ever admit coaching or scheme might be a problem …
we’ve had different players along the defensive front seven every season, yet somehow we always blame the personnel. We could add Albert Haynesworth, Marcus Stroud, Julius Peppers and Jared Allen in the offseason and if we finish 31st against the run somehow those players didn’t execute. maybe they had a down year?
Then you’ve got Tyler Brayton & Fabian Washington who were cast aside in favor of Jay Richardson & Stanford Routt. Then they become starters on playoff teams less than 1 year removed from being 3rd string in Oakland.
yeah. it’s all the players fault!
=========================================
The system is what it is.
I’d hardly call Brayton’s 40 tackles and 4.5 sacks a dominant break out performance.
In 03 he had 61, in 04, 45, in 06, 42.
Plus in Carolina he had the 3rd best rushing game in the League and Julius Frikkin Peppers opposite him.
Fabian has looked like crap “starting” for the Ravens top ranked defense.
He manned the left CB spot in front of FRANK WALKER and EVAN OGLESBY.
I get what you’re saying about the way Al does business backwards, but theres a method to his maddness and I’ll bet you never bished when we went to 3 straight Championship games.
Sure things got a way from him, but if the offense can do better than one TD every 206 plays they D will look alot better.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:01 pm
The Raiders are implementing a new offense…AGAIN! The Raiders have new coaches…AGAIN! The Raiders had unqualified coaches in there last year…AGAIN!
***
The Lane Kiffin offense didn’t put many points on the board. You think Davis & Cable want to keep anything attached to that little weasel’s name? He was a joke. As far as coaches and the passing game are concerned Cable is far better suited than Kiffin as an NFL HC and Tollner & Hackett have a great track record bringing along young QB’s (Alex Smith & Chris Simms being the exceptions, but both were injured and had less than stellar supporting casts).
you’re sad to see Kiffin/Knapp/Defillipo leave S&B ?
if you make the mistake and hire a retarded babysitter and you decide to let her go, you don’t replace her with another a retarded babysitter. you find one who isn’t retarded. one that knows what she’s doing and can take care of your kids.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Its mini camp not monday night football lets hold off on the perception and focus on getting everyone on the same page and familiar with the playbook. Lets see what happens in july before killing these guys.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
I hope Marshall puts in some more Blitz packages and uses the speed we have as a weapon.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
I get what you’re saying about the way Al does business backwards
***
I wasn’t blaming Al Davis N21.
I blamed the DC. That would be Rob Ryan …
May 11th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
New offense = RUN RUN RUN Then play action pass deep.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
Dakota Says:
Cutler probably had more 300 yard passing games last year than Russell has had 200 yard passing games in all of his starts. Russell is nowhere near Cutler’s level yet.
———————————–
Besides 300-yard games, what has Cutler shown?
Not saying he is yet, but until he’s shown anything besides that arm, the baby Cutler could be Jeff George for all intents and purposes. Now, Cutler’s gone to Chicago — a franchise that’s so well known for developing their young QB’s!
Cutler’s star is no more bright than JaMarcus’s — given equal ability and performance by both their teams (and a similar gameplan, obviously), their stats would probably be remarkably similar.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:09 pm
Little known fact….among Cutlers problems in Denver was his party habits. He was known as a huge partier which played a role in McDaniels not wanting him along with his illness. He has the same knocks on him amongst NFL GM’s as Russell does in terms of committment and such. the difference is the media never mention it.
But they are all over Russell for the very same
thing.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:09 pm
I am not slamming Al Davis or the Raiders. I am simply stating some reasons as to why Russell, and other young players, have struggled a little out of the gate.
I am the biggest Russell fan here and think he will have an All-Pro career. But unlike those other young QBs everyone fawns over, Russell has had a totally different set of circumstances that no other top draft pick QB has had to deal with.
Despite it all…Russell showed a lot of progress last year and developed into a decent QB at the end of his FIRST SEASON AS A STARER.
But, like KoolKell said, football is not a turnkey operation. Coaches and QUALIFIED VETS have to lead and develop the younger players.
Al Davis gave Russell a holdout, Lane Kiffin, John DeFilipo, Greg Knapp, Kwame Harris, Ashlie Lelie, Ronald Curry and Cornell Green in his 1st year and a half in the league.
Now Russell is starting to get some talent and competetent coaching…but he, and the team, still have to adjust to the changes. Then again, that’s what mini-camps and OTAs are for!
May 11th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
That’s funny coming from a Raider fan TJ parting heavy is an illness.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
partying
May 11th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
No I meant his ILLNESS (diabetes)
May 11th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
Nnamdi21,
Fabian Washington was a qualified bust for Oakland. Philip Buchanon…like deAngelo Hall didn’t match the Raiders man2man style..
Getting rid of Tyler Brayton was a mistake. Rob Ryan didn’t know how to use the guy. With the problems on this D-Line…Brayton would have been fine had they put him at DE and let him play.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
okay then i apologize
May 11th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
Vegas, SnB
I was in the barbershop in Oakland 2 weeks ago. There was a young man in there I didn’t know, but my barber and others knew.
Evidently he graduated from LSU a year before JaMarcus left, a black guy.(and Saints Fan)
I began to question him about JaMarcus. First he said he was shocked to hear Russell had gone #1.
Evidently has always had weight problems, and according to him had led to injuries.
Evidently has always had a bling problem as well, according to this young man.
Lastly, never won the “Big game”.
To them the Big game was always Florida, Florida St.
The LSU Grad had only 2 personal interactions with Russell, said he wasn’t a bad guy, but will need to really grow, mature.
.02 from the barbershop.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Leinert, Young, Cutler, Rothlesberger and many other young QB’s struggled just as Russell has. But for some reason he’s the only lazy, dumb bust to be in the bunch.
All QB’s don’t come early stay late until they learn that they must do it to be great. I gaurantee you that Rich Gannon early in his career was not the student he was late in his career. These guy’s are young and excited and want to enjoy it. Then they startt ot understand what it takes so they start to focus more. And so will Russell he’s just young is all.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
Nice scoop Kool. Russell was always good enough to loaf and it really hasn’t caught up to him yet.
Would we rather him fall on his face with the hopes that he “gets it” after that or do we hope we continues to improve yet still keeps the “just enough” work ethic?
May 11th, 2009 at 2:20 pm
I think Garcia will get Russell to realize that it takes more than a rocket arm to be good in this league and it takes total dedication to be great.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:21 pm
or my future….
May 11th, 2009 at 2:26 pm
Taking a qb 1st overall is a risk that rarely pays off. Especially an underclassman , I think GMs and owners will eventually stop drafting them that high if there isn’t a rookie salary cap implemented soon.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:27 pm
KoolKell,
I don’t doubt that Russell has some maturing and learning to do. But I think that coaches and veterans should set the standard and expectations. I remember Lane Kiffin saying last offseason that Russell was working hard and doing the right things. I think Russell may have been given bad advice or bad examples. I think he’s doing everything that’s being asked of him and is making the transition to the pro-game.
When the coaching changes, the offensive system changes and the players constantly change…a young QB is going to suffer in his development.
Look at poor Jason Campbell. Having to go through 7 coaches in 7 years….equally ridiculous.
Meanwhile Flacco and Ryan are entering their 2nd year with the same system, same coaches and same players…except Ryan got a huge upgrade at tight end.
It’s taking Russell a little longer because of the way Davis runs his organization.
People just have to have a little patience with Russell. He’ll have a good year this year just by subtracting out Lelie, Harris, Walker?? and pitiful playcalling.
BTW, where is Lelie and Kwame Harris now? How is Ronald Curry doing in that competition for the #3 receiver position with the 0-16 Lions? Will Walker even make the team?
May 11th, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Kell — Passing along barbershop info third- and fourth-hand? C’mon.
How old was Russell while in college? How did you personally behave as a 20-21 year-old kid? Anyone who possibly knew JaMarcus back then, knew a typical kid with anything-but typical skills for a guy his incredible size.
The fact JaMarcus Russell even acts like a “normal” person is a great relief to me as a fan. He seems to be growing into a fine young man, a dedicated professional, and I’m sure he’ll find a balance between his personal and professional lives…all the great ones do, and JaMarcus can still be a great one.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
priesttj Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Leinert, Young, Cutler, Rothlesberger and many other young QB’s struggled just as Russell has. But for some reason he’s the only lazy, dumb bust to be in the bunch.
All QB’s don’t come early stay late until they learn that they must do it to be great. I gaurantee you that Rich Gannon early in his career was not the student he was late in his career. These guy’s are young and excited and want to enjoy it. Then they startt ot understand what it takes so they start to focus more. And so will Russell he’s just young is all.
________________
lol, yep the media is giving Leinart and Young a free pass! Riiiight, I’ve never seen a disparaging report about either of those guys. Give me a break, those guys are lambasted in the media just as bad as Russell, you just don’t spend your time reading reports about the Titans or the Cards so it seems to you like Russell is getting the worst of it.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:30 pm
I wasn’t going to relay that story. But, I’m honest.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:39 pm
HayesDaze
The story is what it is. I said that right up front. You take information where you can get it, determine of it’s credible, and weight it accordingly. I took it in with the Cable interview context discussing Russell. Amd maybe Cable and Jerry aren’t lying.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:39 pm
You know what i think has made Payton Manning good is when he comes off the field he goes right to his coach..dont know who he is..old guy glasses..and they talk about the last drive…when Russell goes to the sideline he sits there..he need a coach with him on the sidelines like PM to teach him and go over the last drive good or bad..hope Paul Hackett is that guy for him
May 11th, 2009 at 2:41 pm
r8rpaver Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 2:39 pm
You know what i think has made Payton Manning good is when he comes off the field he goes right to his coach..dont know who he is..old guy glasses..and they talk about the last drive…when Russell goes to the sideline he sits there..he need a coach with him on the sidelines like PM to teach him and go over the last drive good or bad..hope Paul Hackett is that guy for him
=======================================================
Having the same O.C “Tom Moore” for 10 years helps too!
May 11th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
I dont quite fully understand the logic regarding the difference in play calling hindering JR. Its not like they were being called from a new play book.
Why on earth would someone new calling the play completely hinder JR’s growth?
May 11th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
my family is from new orleans.most have relocated to arkansas and texas after katrina.but they think very highly of jamarcus russell because he housed several evacuees in his dorm room.for some reason this is only common knowledge in new orleans.if brady quinn would of did that it would be on espn outside the lines.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
and Tom Brady has played in basically the same system for about 8 years due to Belicheck being their so long.
Russell will be fine as a Quarterback. This stuff about weight, make or break, accuracy etc…is just talk before the season starts.
And don’t put too much in a May workout either. Good or bad. Here’s the link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frsId3goYYE
May 11th, 2009 at 2:44 pm
I have an authentic Russell Jersey as well, Vegas. It’s the only Jersey I’ve ever had in my life.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:44 pm
Actually, Dakota — Leinart gets pretty easy handling from the press, because Kurt Warner’s been so good the past year and a half.
If Warner was out of the picture, Leinart would be as exposed as Vince Young. I will agree that neither of them have been treated with kid gloves, though. But, had either of those guys been in a real “major” media market, they’d both be even more roasted as the proverbial bust.
The Raiders QB situation is ultra-bright compared to those two guys’ situations.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:44 pm
If you took Payton Manning’s work ethic and paired it with Russell’s abilities you might have the greatest QB of all-time.
Let’s just hope he develops 1/3 of Manning’s work ethic.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:44 pm
Amen HD37, I hear all kinds of crap about Russell in Barbershops all the time. Guy’s that say they hang out with him and some really do.
But There is one guy that I know knew him well his uncle. He passed away, I also know a few sports writer that I have a lot of respect for that knew his uncle very well. Russell certainly has his problems but they are very common problems nothing unusual.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:45 pm
WOW EVEN nfl live took a shot at jamarcus today, guess it comes with the territory
May 11th, 2009 at 2:47 pm
One of those people JaMarcus put up was Fats Domino.
http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/stories/090205aea.html
May 11th, 2009 at 2:51 pm
you guys need to stand behind Jamarcus.Vince Evans isnt walking through that door neither Is shroeder, Gannon, hostetler,stabler, plunkett,blanda,or beurline. We had to take a qb in 07, quinn, beck wasnt the asnwer
May 11th, 2009 at 2:51 pm
*weren’t
May 11th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
HayesDaze37,
Whatever man, just goodle “Matt Leinart Bust” and read all the schyt about him being a bust.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:55 pm
or google it, lol
May 11th, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Dakota, the Mannings were raised to be QB’s and understood what was involved. Russell didn’t have nearly the kind of support those two have.
I can almost gaurantee that Russell’s work ethic is no worse than the average QB it just gets played up much more.
I think Cable wants to be sure that he gets what he needs to be the best that he can be. Something Kiffin was not to keen on.
Again the kid is all of 22 years old and on schedule as far as I can see.
May 11th, 2009 at 2:58 pm
Hi guys. I’ll have to back Dakota on this one. You would have to be living under a rock not to have heard/read the comments on Leinart and Young. Especially with the Cards making the Superbowl last year. You don’t remember all the maturity questions about Young last year?
May 11th, 2009 at 2:59 pm
raidertay Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
I dont quite fully understand the logic regarding the difference in play calling hindering JR. Its not like they were being called from a new play book.
=======================================================
New playcallers may not know the roster as well. Don’t know the strenghts and weaknesses and have to re-establish that understanding. Different relationships too. Tom Cable admitted as much when talking about the learning curve he had to overcome in learning the team.
Also, the Raiders are implementing a new offense this year. That means new plays to learn and master…as opposed to perfecting what is already there. That’s why I am surprised that Cable didn’t use that extra mini-camp afforded to new coaches.
As for Manning…after being in the same system with the same coaches for a decade…Manning could probably coach the offense himself. The chemistry he has with Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark and his O-Line has to operate like a finely tuned orchestra.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
In every system the Raiders have put Russell in though he has been terribly inaccurate. Sounds like more of the same from Jerry’s reports. It is early, but he has a lot to prove this season.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
I think when you put it in perspective, JaMarcus is in great shape: http://www.examiner.com/ExaminerSlideshow.html?entryid=241029&slide=3
May 11th, 2009 at 3:13 pm
Haha! The more I read in here, the more I realize this blogs needs to be separated into two groups: 1) those that have OD’d on the Koolaid and 2) all the rest.
Jerry – don’t be so defensive. Even the coach called Russell streaky and, yes, having balls bounce before reaching the receiver is not a good thing. Just do what you do. Most of us here appreciate your reporting. You will never please some folks and, in fact, I think you may have angered them more by indirectly responding to their cries.
I want Russell to be the player Davis envisioned. That said, having balls not reach the receiver is unacceptable. Timing issues, you can expect with new receivers.
I’ve been to the games and the thing that alarms me most is his inability to read the field. What you guys don’t see on TV is some of the receivers running free. If you’re at the games this year, look at the receivers. Sometimes, yes, they’re all covered but other times, the kid just doesn’t scan the field.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:15 pm
Russell blah blah blah. The only way we are going to win consistently in 2009 is by running the ball like crazy and playing better D anyhow, and hopefully Cable knows that.
If Russell starts 09 like he ended 08 then it will be time to get excited, but I recall him doing okay in the last game of 07 and then stinking it up the first 10 games of 08, so let’s not get too excited either way. I just hope he continues to develop going forward.
And anyone that cries about Russell being under the microscope, well, every #1 overall pick is under the microscope, so deal with it. If Russell came into camp in great shape and looked like he had thrown a pass or two in the offseason then I am sure the media reports would have been positive on the guy.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:18 pm
The only way we are going to be able to run the ball with consistent success, is if defenses at the very least respect our passing game.
Tough to find yards with 8 or 9 guys in the box. If Jamarcus starts off the year with some success, the run game will open up. If he is awful, the rest of the offense will follow.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Its no secret that Russell can be inaccurate. I was really concerned for most of the season until he started getting better towards the end of the season.
Before then he was getting guys blasted by having them leap for balls or killing YAC by having them dive.
Cable said that was one of the reason why they got DHB because he can climb the ladder and get those balls.
We had a lot of different WRs last year and that may have somethin to do with it, but I wouldnt let JR off the hook. Its just somethin he needs to work on.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:21 pm
Exactly Vegas, we just need Russell to be adequate, and then we will win some games.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:27 pm
Dakota Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 3:15 pm
If Russell starts 09 like he ended 08 then it will be time to get excited, but I recall him doing okay in the last game of 07 and then stinking it up the first 10 games of 08, so let’s not get too excited either way. I just hope he continues to develop going forward.
=======================================================
Agreed. Russell does have to have to maintain his performance from the end of last year. In fact, if he can’t do that within the first 4 games then the Raiders have a problem.
All I say is let’s wait until the games are played and not worry so much about practice in may
May 11th, 2009 at 3:29 pm
As inaccurate as Russell has been, at least those balls are hitting the ground and not being returned for pick sixes.
If he can just get things tightened up a bit he will be fine. And if he is just average we should win some games in 09.
Just give the ball to McFadden and Bush with Lorenzo leading the way and you might keep your job Cable, but go with Barnes at LT, Fargas at the #1 back and Walker at WR and you can kiss your ass goodbye.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:29 pm
Also, Russell doesn’t need to be as accurate as Chad Pennington….Russell needs to be around 60% and keep the INTs low. If he hits on a couple of those long range passes and keeps hitting the playmakers underneath (Miller and the RBs) that model should work fine.
I would rather have a QB with a big play capability and some accuracy issues…than a QB with all the accuracy in the world but can’t complete a pass beyond 10 yards.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:35 pm
Russell seems to be better at those 20 -30 yd strikes over the middle, and seams to Miller.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:47 pm
russell looked fine at the end of last year.so i will wait till after the game monday night against the chargers before i form an opinion.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:48 pm
The Miller sports hernia news is troubling. Hopefully he has his own, or McFadden’s, doctors work on him and not the witch doctors the Raiders hire.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:51 pm
SnB Defense Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
On a positive…its good to see that Chaz Schilens is building on the momentum he generated last year
And thats my gripe against Jmac.Chaz can do it why not Jmac???
May 11th, 2009 at 3:52 pm
Dakota Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 3:48 pm
not the witch doctors the Raiders hire.
======================================================
Hey…throw some dirt on it and get back out there
Excellent job with Javon Walker by the way..LOL
May 11th, 2009 at 3:55 pm
I saw Russell improving…he began to look off his WR`s and check down,without telegraphing,he began to use his feet ,to make plays…the kid hits the window with his passes,if the WR gets to the window,the ball is there so it CANT be intercepted..he completed 10 out of 11 passes in a row in one game,how is that in-accurate?
Russell only needs to nail the short game,the screen game and his leadership with the hurry-up stuff
May 11th, 2009 at 3:55 pm
4evaRaider,
Because Chaz is a wide receiver and JMAC is a QB. What you are seeing is the cost of constantly changing systems and coaches. Hopefully Cable provides some stability.
It will all get worked out by camp anyway. I would wait to judge Russell in practice until they get Zach Miller back…Miller is his number 1 target and when defenses try to shut him down…that will leave others open
May 11th, 2009 at 3:58 pm
I hope they waterboard that Nazi guard before they deport him.
May 11th, 2009 at 3:59 pm
http://jalopnik.com/5249517/new-terminator-salvation-trailer-four-minutes-of-mechanized-awesome
friggin sweet trailer
see ya
May 11th, 2009 at 4:08 pm
All seriousness. Can someone make the case to me why Justin Fargas should start ahead of Bush. What tangible play on the field does Fargas bring ahead of Bush.
Seems like the Raiders enjoy playing with one hand tied behind their collective backs
May 11th, 2009 at 4:14 pm
I dont understand it either SnB.Everyone knows how much I like Fargas and what he brings 2 the table.But 2 start Justin over Dmac or Bush is well silly.Yes he’s the best example of everything Raider but…he is not as gifted as Dmac or Bush,imo
May 11th, 2009 at 4:32 pm
There is a reason you are going to start Fargas. lst off, like him or not, Fargas is probably the 15th or 20th best back in the league right now. While he is NOT Barry freaking Sanders, he has done enough to earn his playing time. Dmac and Bush have to earn THEIR playing time. They have yet to do that. 2ndly, and more importantly, you have to remember you have a Q making his what, 17th start?, a LT making his what 5th start, other offensively linemen who have NEVER played together, and you are going to leave Jamarcus’ final line of protection to two guys who don’t have 10 NFL starts between the both of them??? No way that is going to happen. You have to have some veteran player back there. Looks like it’s Fargas for good or bad. Until the other two get up to snuff, which probably won’t take that long one would hope.
May 11th, 2009 at 4:32 pm
Fargas should start ahead of Bush because Fargas will get hurt. Leaving a nice fresh Bush.
May 11th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
yep he knows where everyone is supposed 2B,the other backs dont
May 11th, 2009 at 4:40 pm
And if you remember the SD game in SD, Shaun Phillips comes from the right side, Bush’s head is spinning like one of those cartoons from the sixties, and one tenth of a second later, Jamarcus is a crumpled heap, the ball is out, and Jamarcus gets up limping. Bush is out of the game, and I don’t think he sees the field again until Tampon Bay, the last game of the season.
May 11th, 2009 at 4:44 pm
Why does Fargas get all the hate? We’d all like an LT on the team, but Fargas has been a team player. I understand he gets hurt, but jeez if anyone deserves some slack it’s him. He’s had a great attitude. Something the other players (thinking Bush) can learn from.
May 11th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
Oakglenn,
What has he done to EARN this playing time. The stats don’t seem bear that out. 3.9 yards per carry….1TD…limited pass catching. If its pass blocking…I would hope that the coaches could get DMAC and Bush up to speed.
I just think that Fargas doesn’t concern opponents. He doesn’t have breakaway speed, he’s not physically imposing and he is not very reliable as a pass catcher.
Yet, when I see DMAC and Bush’s best games…I see two guys that can rip off big yards at anytime and have to make the defense think because of their pass catching ability.
Fargas is a nice back to spell the others. Exactly what I would expect the “20th ranked” running back to be able to do.
May 11th, 2009 at 4:51 pm
VT Raider,
I don’t think its hate. The fact that there is a debate is a testament to his “leadership” qualities.
The thing I don’t like about Fargas is there is no game breaking ability. No change the pace of the game. He only scored 1 TD last year. He only averaged 3.9 per carry. He can’t catch.
This offense doesn’t score many points. Inside the red zone they are dreadfull…..I would like to see the Raiders have a game breaker on the field for a change…not just a bunch of guys…
What happens if DMAC gets 25 touches….versus Fargas….Bush had big carries against K.C….caught 7 balls against S.D and…the Tampa game where he broke open the game.
I can’t see Fargas having a DMAC vs. K.C game in him. I just can’t see him having a Michael Bush vs. Tampa game….Fargas has a few nice games like the Denver game,….but for the most part he just doesn’t seem to be a difference maker
May 11th, 2009 at 4:52 pm
Fargas is the 3rd best “running back” on our team, but the #1 rated “half back”. Until Bush and McFadden can elevate their games and pick-up the remaining half back skills, they will remain behind Fargas on the depth chart. But McFadden will be on the field more than Fargas next season.
May 11th, 2009 at 5:01 pm
Here is Fargas’ stats for 2008. In addition he had 10 receptions for 52 yards with his longest reception being 12 yards.
Opp GS Att Yds Avg Lng TD
DEN 1 18 97 5.4 42 0
@ KC 1 9 43 4.8 11 0
@ BUF 0 – – – – –
SD 0 – – – – –
– – – – – –
@ NO 1 10 35 3.5 7 0
NYJ 1 28 74 2.6 16 0
@ BAL 1 11 22 2 8 0
ATL 1 6 23 3.8 13 0
CAR 1 22 89 4 17 0
@ MIA 1 17 57 3.4 15 0
@ DEN 1 24 107 4.5 21 0
KC 1 18 82 4.6 15 1
@ SD 1 12 50 4.2 8 0
NE 1 15 70 4.7 13 0
HOU 1 22 93 4.2 13 0
@ TB 1 6 11 1.8 5 0
May 11th, 2009 at 5:03 pm
BART Bridge Blues Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 4:52 pm
Fargas is the 3rd best “running back” on our team, but the #1 rated “half back”. Until Bush and McFadden can elevate their games and pick-up the remaining half back skills, they will remain behind Fargas on the depth chart. But McFadden will be on the field more than Fargas next season
=======================================================
I don’t see the Raiders offense being successfull if they go that route. Fargas is too one-dimensional. If DMAC and Bush can’t beat out Fargas…then they should have been traded or not drafted in the 1st place.
May 11th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
SnB Defense Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
Oakglenn,
What has he done to EARN this playing time.
——————————————————–
The first year Fargas really got to see some realistic action was in 07. He rushed for over 1000 yards in SEVEN GAMES. His average was 4.5 yards per carry, if you want to go that route. He was on pace for a 2000 yard season!! That ain’t bad. In the three years prior to that, he was used very sparingly and the one year he got some starts was the Art Shell year, so you can’t really blame him for that mess.
He also has developed his pass blocking, and is actually very good at it. I don’t know if you remember the preseason game last year in Nashville, but with the ones in the game, we drive down the field, inside their 10, Haynesworth just BLOWS UP Grove, comes in untouched ready to smash Jamarcus to pieces, bam, on his 350 lb ass haynesworth goes, Jamarcus slides to his left, and hits Zach Miller for six. Perfect play from Fargas. Never will show up in any stat, but Fargas MADE that play. That’s why he is out there.
Lastly, he shows the other players how a professional is supposed to handle his business. Do you EVER hear that guy bitch or whine about what goes on around here?? I understand the criticism about the lack of TD’s. But no one has been scoring TD’s in bunches here lately, or maybe Fargas is a perfect between the 20’s type of back.
Now, should the other guys play?? Absolutely. But if they do, it’s not because of their draft status, or because some guy in Section 221 thinks they should. It’s because when they are out there, they are productive. That’s the message Cable is trying to send.
May 11th, 2009 at 5:12 pm
bush is the biggest of the 3 backs so he has to get his carries.mcfadden is the quickest,fastest most dynamic of the 3,also a match up nightmare in the slot.fargas is the odd man out.
May 11th, 2009 at 5:29 pm
I explained why the team has Fargas out there. And Michael Bush’s mom is not as big a Michael Bush fan as I am. Now, onto Darren McFadden. I have to admit, I was a bit disappointed by what I saw last year from McFadden. Yeah, you can see the speed around the edge. Sure. And yeah the soft hands, and sure, the guy was hurt. Sure, whatever. What I saw from McFadden that I REALLY liked, was in the San Diego game, we had a couple of Interceptions Jamarcus had thrown, and they were returning them, and then you see this white streak of light come out of nowhere and just put the wood to their player. THAT, I have to say, really sold me on McFadden. He had no problem putting his shoulder into an opposing player. And I mean putting the wood to their guy. Believe me, that is going to come in handy when a 280 lb defensive lineman blows around one of our tackles. Not everyone is going to put their hat on a guy 70 lbs heavier than they are, who just happens to have a full head of steam. Not everyone can do that or likes to do that.
May 11th, 2009 at 5:33 pm
heres a q and a from javon walker
Q: James Franklin at Maryland compared Darrius Heyward-Bey to you. What similarities do you see?
A: Yeah, yeah, yeah. Got a nice size, obviously great speed, you know, and it’s just putting it all together. Just like I had to do when I was a rookie, I had to come in and put it all together, and that’s all it’s going to take. Just putting it all together comes with time, repetition and obviously when you start to play the game. Because everything you can know how to do out here, you learn now, then you got to put it together when it’s time to start playing football and that’s one thing I have to say about me. Out here, against air, I was telling the receivers coach, Sanjay (Lal), man you’ve got the best technically sound group I’ve ever been around since I’ve been coming through, as a whole. These guys, I’m kind of scared to get out there with them because (they’re) fast, how they break down in routes. But what’s good about them, and what’s good about him, is once they learn that, then they translate knowing into playing football. And that’s the thing about me: I just know how to play football. So now you take all that, and let’s try to execute it in the game plans and against real teams and see how real times do. And that just comes with knowledge and time.
May 11th, 2009 at 5:40 pm
Oakglenn Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
The first year Fargas really got to see some realistic action was in 07. He rushed for over 1000 yards in SEVEN GAMES.
===================================================
He started 7 games but played in 14 games to reach his 1000 yard mark.
http://www.nfl.com/players/justinfargas/profile?id=FAR068315
May 11th, 2009 at 5:44 pm
Someone actually quoted that fraud Javon Walker. Wow!
Bush was big and powerful last year, yet somehow mangaged to collect alot of DNPs. Fargas gets the most carries, DMC the most touches. mark it down.
May 11th, 2009 at 5:59 pm
# Dude Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 5:44 pm
Someone actually quoted that fraud Javon Walker. Wow!
Bush was big and powerful last year, yet somehow mangaged to collect alot of DNPs. Fargas gets the most carries, DMC the most touches. mark it down.
————————————————————–
If that happens we have a losing record , mark it down!
May 11th, 2009 at 6:00 pm
So Fargas is starting because he can pick up a pass-rusher.
That a good attribute but, not the foremost quality of a RB.
Bush and Mac will block for Jamarcus.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:01 pm
dmac gets the most carries and most touches ,bush second,fargas is the odd man out.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:09 pm
Vegas Raider, likewise, the only way we’re going to pass the ball with any success is if defenses respect our running game. You’re going to have to lean run or pass. Al Davis is leaning pass, obviously. With no sure set of hands at wide receiver, and a quarterback who can only throw deep. We don’t have Walter Payton in our backfield, but we’re still better equipped at running the football than we are passing. We’re going to have to get defenses to play tighter in order to get the man coverage Russell will need to find one of our receivers open downfield, one of our receivers who will probably drop the ball anyway.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
Fargas had one decent year going until he got hurt. He is a decent backup, 3rd stringer at best and until Cable works him that way, the rushing attack will be subpar.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:12 pm
No More Fargas, the only way we’re not going to have a losing record this year is if we switch teams (and owners) with Pittsburgh.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:16 pm
Fargas is one of Davis’s guys, anyway. This is what, his 7th year? Anybody who’s been here that long is sucking some Davis pickle. He’s not a bad player. One of Davis’s overachievers, which are rare anymore. My guess is Davis is holding him hostage so an AFC west team won’t pick him up and shove him up our arse two times a year.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:16 pm
Indiana and Black Douche,
The Raiders rushing attack the last 2 years has been good BECAUSE of Fargas, not in spite of him. Funny how its against the rules to bash that fat arse Russell but Fargas is fair game. Can you say hypocrite.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:20 pm
IndianaRaider Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 5:40 pm
Oakglenn Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
The first year Fargas really got to see some realistic action was in 07. He rushed for over 1000 yards in SEVEN GAMES.
===================================================
He started 7 games but played in 14 games to reach his 1000 yard mark.
———————————————————-
Actually, that should have said 7 starts not 7 games. You are right Indiana. That being said, in the other 7 games he played in, he was the backup in 3 and got in those games, but against Detroit he had 5 carries, 8 carries against Denver, 2 in the lst game against SD and one against KC. In all fairness to Fargas, not exactly a huge workload.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:21 pm
Dude, I agree with you on Fargas’s talent. But Al won’t play a good running back. He’s holding Fargas hostage so that Denver, SD, or KC won’t pick him up and just unleash him on us twice a year, either running the ball or catching it out of the backfield. I can just imagine the damage our AFC west opponents would do to us with a spark plug like Justin. Davis wants to throw the ball, and he doesn’t want Justin going anywhere else. So he’s pulling a Marcus Allen on him.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:24 pm
Dude Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 6:16 pm
Indiana and Black Douche,
The Raiders rushing attack the last 2 years has been good BECAUSE of Fargas, not in spite of him. Funny how its against the rules to bash that fat arse Russell but Fargas is fair game. Can you say hypocrite.
====================================================
lol, ok because of fargas. we all can agree that a hurt McFadden, Bush not being given the chance, LaMont Jordan-ReShard Lee-Dominic Rhodes were also used to their best ability right? So sure, let’s pat Fargas on the back and say here ya go kid, you earned it.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
Dude, what better explains Davis’s reluctance to play Fargas, and his refusal to cut him loose?
May 11th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Indiana,
WTF? LOL!! What does that even mean??
Fargas in ‘07. Explain that.
Funny how the cat somehow managed 800+ last year in limited duty while playing behind a patchwork line.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:29 pm
Ummm, Fargas plays quite a bit Madden.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:30 pm
Oak Fargas starting, that I have a hard time seeing. But I will say this he runs harder than any of them and when the passing game takes off running lanes will be there to gain extra yards. When people say he has no vision, you can’t get 4 yards a carry in this league without vision. He may not be Marcus Allen who could string together several moves but he does have vision. Fargas did the bulk of his running against stacked defenses. What would he do if we had a balanced offense?
May 11th, 2009 at 6:30 pm
Fargas has been here since what, 2003? That’s a long freakin time. That almost goes back to the days when we were a respectable franchise in this league. Long, long time ago. You don’t stay here that long without being a Davis guy in some sense. I think Fargas is a Davis guy in the sense that Davis wants him here, and not in another AFC west uniform, even if he has no intentions of using him.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:31 pm
# IndianaRaider Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
Fargas had one decent year going until he got hurt. He is a decent backup, 3rd stringer at best and until Cable works him that way, the rushing attack will be subpar.
——————————————————-
You’re right, and I don’t make excuses for my self or others, but that is one decent season more than we have had as an entire team since he has been here. He did not play hardly at all his first two years, his third year (which he did play) was the dreaded Art Shell disaster year, the next year he did well, and last year, again, was a total team disaster by anyones standards. Kind of hard for me to pin all the teams woes on Fargas.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:31 pm
[...] This post was Twitted by acrosstic – Real-url.org [...]
May 11th, 2009 at 6:31 pm
Dude, Fargas doesn’t play as much as he should. Frankly, I think he’s our best running back right now. Better than McFadden or Bush. Bottom line is, Davis wants to throw the ball.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:32 pm
Your mom got twitted on prom night.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:34 pm
I got cha Madden. I agree.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:35 pm
Wow!! I actually 100% agree with Priest. That is a first.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:36 pm
I told you Fargas was a Davis guy, Dude. With priest taking up for him. You know priest comments from Davis’s lap. Not lap top, lap.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:39 pm
stats dont lie Dude, im not saying Fargas isn’t worth a roster spot, so don’t get all crossed signal on me. I simply said that since 2006, 07, and 08 that Fargas’s stats backed up what you said about Fargas leading the team to those decent team rushing totals.
Should he be given the full credit and given the nod to start the season? no. Would things have been different with Bush starting or McFadden? Who knows and it won;t matter now. I simply posted the stats of Fargas and his team mates those 3 years.
Let’s break this down even easier for you. You want to use 07′ as an example. Fargas had 222 attempts for 1009 yards. Jordan who started the year before getting his back hurt had 144 for 549 yards. Rhodes stepped in the end of the year for 75 and 302 yards. Who decided who played and who called the shots? Kiffin. Would it be different had Rhodes started or Jordan stayed healthy? who knows? that was then and this is now.
Bottom line, to say Fargas is something special for getting 800+ in limited duty behind our line? Sure, but that don’t make him better than our other 2 RB or anyone else fighting for the starting slot.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:42 pm
The Real MaddenRaider Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 6:31 pm
Frankly, I think he’s our best running back right now. Better than McFadden or Bush.
=====================================================
While I seriously disagree, I will say your entitled to your own opinion. Give both Bush and McFadden more than 1 season’s stats to say if they are better than Fargas but your free to feel how you want, don’t mean we have to agree.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:42 pm
I am simply saying he is the better of the 3 backs and he WILL start game 1. Not saying he is an All Pro or deserves EVERY carry, but he is simply the best all around back on the club and will be the game 1 starter.
I have said it many times already. The Raider run game is a 3 headed monster NOT 2.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:43 pm
Every player on that team is a Davis guy. Or else they wouldn’t be there. Wether he got them for someone else or decided himself they’re there because he feels they can help us win……..period
Once you’re not a Davis guy you wont be here. At the same time no one can keep all the players they like. Neither can he.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:43 pm
priesttj Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 6:30 pm
Oak Fargas starting, that I have a hard time seeing.
————————————————————–
Well priest as I wrote above, with a Q making his what 17th NFL start, a LT making his 6th NFL start, an offensive line that has not played a down together, you’re going to throw 2 RB’s back there with a COMBINED 5 NFL starts?? No way that is going to happen. There has to be a veteran presence somewhere. Cue Fargas. For good or bad.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:44 pm
priesttj Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 6:43 pm
Every player on that team is a Davis guy. Or else they wouldn’t be there.
———————————————-
A truer thought has never been posted on this board.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:44 pm
yeh, priest, Marcus Allen was a Davis guy…
And you were doing so well today.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:46 pm
Every player is a Davis guy, today. That I’ll agree with. It’s why we suck year after year. Gannon was not a Davis guy. We know that now, don’t we?
May 11th, 2009 at 6:47 pm
If anybody on this board says Gannon was an AL Davis guy they should be banned immediately.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:51 pm
who drafted Marcus Allen?
May 11th, 2009 at 6:53 pm
Whoever is too dumb to realize Gannon was a Davis guy should be relegated moron status.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:55 pm
# Dude Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 6:47 pm
If anybody on this board says Gannon was an AL Davis guy they should be banned immediately.
———————————————————
Gannon was an Al Davis guy. Davis sent the tape of Gannon to Gruden when Gruden was looking for a mobile Q. Gruden himself admitted as much. Grbac had started the season as the KC Cheat’s Q, Gannon came in and went 5-1 as a starter. The next year Shottenheimer went back to Grbac who was 2-4 while Gannon was 5-5. Shottenheimer was fired and Gannon came here. And we started winning.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:56 pm
But it just goes to show that some here don’t get it and are hopeless to ever do so.
May 11th, 2009 at 6:58 pm
I POSTED EARLIER TODAY THAT I THOUGHT A GOOD WAY TO GET ARE MONEYS WORTH OUT OF MRS. JAVON WALKER WOULD BE TO THROW HIM PASSES OVER THE MIDDLE AND LET ARE NEW YOUNGER VERSION OF “RONNIE LOTT” PRACTICE HITTING A NFL RECIEVER.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:00 pm
OMG!!! Where did you get that BS about Gruden and Gannon? Please! Jeff George, Jim Plunkett, Kerry Collins, Jamarcus Russell. Those are Al Davis guys. Gannon was ALL Gruden. As soon as he could Davis tried to replace him with Collins. You guys never cease to amaze me.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:01 pm
Too much overthinking on this board. Hangin’ on every word written and observed.
Remember dudets, Russell is only in his 2nd year. Again, 2nd year! Dude is still green by any reasonable measure. And we are talking about practice – practice! (To leverage the emphasis rant of A.I.)
I don’t care about practice as much as I care about what really counts and thats the game on gameday – PERIOD! And by that measure, Russell appears quite capable of delivering the rock:
Accuracy in last 7 games:
vs MIA 68.2%
vs DEN 90.9%
vs KfC 35.7%
vs StD 69.2%
vs N.E 53.1%
vs HOU 72.0%
vs T.B 66.7%
average: 65.1%
Not a great line to protect, but discount short game heavily utilized, with no real established WRs …you can fudge the percentage around that 65.1% somewhere but prob not too far. In only his 2nd year!
May 11th, 2009 at 7:01 pm
Who is the younger version of Ronnie Lott?
May 11th, 2009 at 7:01 pm
I guess we are done saying Fargas is the only man who can carry a top 5 rushing attack on his shoulders this year. I stand by my point that he is a 3rd stringer at best this season, god forbid McFadden or Bush see injurys this year.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:02 pm
Ocho Cinco is a Davis guy. That is why you should expect to see him in a Raider uniform sometime before training camp.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:02 pm
DUDE
CABLES EXACT WORDS WERE MIKE MITCHEL WAS JACK TATUM AND RONNIE LOTT LIKE THATS WHY I PUT THE QUOTATION MARKS
May 11th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
Dude Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 7:00 pm
OMG!!! Where did you get that BS about Gruden and Gannon?
——————————————————-
Actually, from Jon Gruden. That’s where.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
Priest,
How do you expalin the absolute mold break it was when the WC was put in and Gannon was signed?
May 11th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Oakglenn,
Can I find it somewhere? Or is it convientently lost in space???
May 11th, 2009 at 7:05 pm
I HAVE A QUESTION???
YVONNE WALKER SAID HE WAS 65% AT BEST LAST YEAR… WTF
WHO IS THE TEAM DOCTOR THAT EXAMINED HIM BEFORE HE TOOK ALL THE MILLIONS????
THAT DOCTOR NEEDS TO BE TAKEN AND WATERBOARDED IMMEDIATELY TO SEE WHO HE IS REALLY WORKING FOR.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
Terrapin Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Oopss that wasn’t his 2nd year. That was his 1st~~!
————————————————
Technically, Terp, it is his 2nd year. But first year as a starter. And of course, let’s not forget he came out after his Junior year.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
probably a Kiffin hire that Al paid for.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
WHETHER HE WAS A GRUDEN GUY OR A DAVIS GUY IS IRRELEVANT !!!
BECAUSE WE KNOW DAVIS HAS THE FINAL SAY AND WILL NOT BE TALKED INTO ANYTHING WHICH BY DE FAULT MAKES HIM A DAVIS GUY!!!
May 11th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
Oakglenn Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
Terrapin Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Oopss that wasn’t his 2nd year. That was his 1st~~!
————————————————
Technically, Terp, it is his 2nd year. But first year as a starter. And of course, let’s not forget he came out after his Junior year.
===========================================
This is his 3rd year, 2nd as starter if your counting the 09-10 season of course.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
# Dude Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Oakglenn,
Can I find it somewhere? Or is it convientently lost in space???
————————————————
One of the posters here I am sure can help you find it. I think it is actually in one of Gruden’s books. Not sure tho. I would say ask Gannon, here comes here enough times, but he may not know who was responsible for him being here.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
One thing you guys have to understand is if a coach asks for something or someone, especially the new head coach, Davis will make an effort to get him that player. No coach has EVER said he wouldn’t. Look at Kiffin: he wanted a mobile Q, he got one, he wanted a TE, Davis drafted one, he wanted a smash mouth FB, Davis drafted one. If the coaches ask, Davis will go out and get them to the best of his ability. Kiffin wanted Jeff Garcia and Davis went out to get him but he wouldn’t come here because we were honest and told him we were drafting Jamarcus. You may not believe it, but it’s true.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
Yeah, your genious Al tried to run it with that mental midget Jeff George. Took all of 3 games for Gruden to see that wasnt happening.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
damn forgot about that. dude comes out his junior year in college, out practically his entire 1st year (which would’ve been his senior year in college), plays Y2 (which is basically Y1/rookie campaign), accomplishes a 77.1 seasonal passer rating, getting better as the year goes on with a 65% efficiency and we’re here bitchon about dat?
damn …a little perspective will help
May 11th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
Priest,
I GUARANTEE you were celebrating the big signing of Jeff George and proclaiming him the next great Raider QB. Deny it. Please.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:18 pm
Oakglenn,
My buddy has the Gruden book and I have been meaning to read it. This will give me good reason to do it. If its in there I will admit it and take my medicine.
Bad Mood,
Dont start that garbage again. All it proves is how ignorant you are.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
The US government is about the only thing ran worse than the Raiders.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:22 pm
Dude Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 7:18 pm
Oakglenn,
My buddy has the Gruden book and I have been meaning to read it. This will give me good reason to do it. If its in there I will admit it and take my medicine.
————————————————-
Again, I haven’t read Grudens book so, it might not be there, but I think it is.
————————————————-
# Terrapin Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
damn forgot about that. dude comes out his junior year in college, out practically his entire 1st year (which would’ve been his senior year in college), plays Y2 (which is basically Y1/rookie campaign), accomplishes a 77.1 seasonal passer rating, getting better as the year goes on with a 65% efficiency and we’re here bitchon about dat?
damn …a little perspective will help
——————————————————-
And let’s also not forget Jamarcus having THREE offensive coordinators his first year as a starter. Peyton Manning has had ONE. Tom Moore. His entire career. Think that makes a slight difference??
May 11th, 2009 at 7:26 pm
IF Russell ends up being a bust it will not be ALL his fault. The dysfunction within the Raider organization will have as much to do with him being a bust as anything else.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:26 pm
I thought Michael Huff was an Art Shell guy, no?
May 11th, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Mike Huff was an Art Shell guy according to Davis. Shell has a little more class than Davis so I doubt he will comment.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Here’s to Russell and Cable gettin’ it done over the next 6 years.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
Priest,
I agree again. I truly hope that happens. I am not very confident in it happening but I wish it would. I want Sundays to be fun again.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:35 pm
Priesttj
BHP what are GM’s around the league telling you about Javon Walker?
May 11th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
Is Art Shell still here? Is Mike Huff still here? then Mike must be a Davis guy after all. Now Huff needs to play well to stay a Davis guy and time is not on his side. Mike Mitchell was drafted by Cable same as Huff was by Shell but if they play well enough they can become a Davis guy just like everyone else.
I remember Tyler Brayton and Chris Johnson was supposed to be on scholarship but couldn’t play didn’t belong in the NFL until last year. Mario Henderson was a scholarship Davis guy until late last year.
Me thinks there are some very confused people in here.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:45 pm
I just don’t think Justin Fargas has the capability to dominate a game like Bush and DMAC do. I have never seen him do that. He’s a nice role player and may have a good drive here and there.
You need a guy that is capable of dictating a game. That’s what makes Adrian Peterson so doggone effective. Bryant Westbrook does it with his hands and his feet. LT has killed this team repeatedly.
I just have not seen a game where at the end of it you could say…wow…Fargas really brought it.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
What’s up Nation, I just got done with the all the yard work.
I like the yard, but I hate doing the work. Also, you all know how cheap I am, so I will not hire anyone to do it. lol
May 11th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
This thing about scholarship guy’s that Jerry has everyone thinking Mr Davis has players that don’t belong in the league that he keeps on the payroll.
Is the biggest load of crap I’ve ever heard but Jerry continues to perpetrate this crap because he’s got enough suckers believing it. It takes time for players to develope some never do but the only way to knw that is to coach them up and give them a chance to do so.
Jerry and Kiffin would’ve cut Mario and CJ if given the chance.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
What are GM’s around the league telling you about him?
May 11th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
BHP,
You know NFL GMs?! If you do, tell’em to lower ticket prices!! lol
May 11th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
You all know GMs, then how come I dont know any?! lol
May 11th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
BHP
Is Jerry also responsible for the 72 losses over the last 6 years. And the sub.500 record over the last 20 yrs?
May 11th, 2009 at 7:52 pm
BHP,
What do you think about Jerry’s post?
May 11th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
Priesttj,
Has Mr Davis confided in you why he signed DeAngelo Hall, and did he say why?
May 11th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
If the Raiders are going to be a run 1st team…they have to dominate on the ground. Dominate like the Giants do on the ground….dominate like the Vikings or Falcons….that’s a running game.
Just having guys go out and have 20 carries for 60 yards and with 1 carry for 20….is not dominating….
That’s why I want to see more DMAC and Michael Bush. Those two have demonstrated on the field the capability of taking a game over. Now if you could get a DMAC vs. K.C or Bush vs. T.B type game….where the safety has to come up….then JaMarcus, Schilens and D-HB start having fun.
May 11th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
You guys are funny. lol
May 11th, 2009 at 8:03 pm
Since its all about “practice” then Louis Ratkin would be our feature back and Todd Watkins would be the #1 WR. And the list goes on with the many “practice” all-stars that came through camp. But again its “practice” people, “practice” ….call me when it counts.
The most you can get out of the overblown “practice” reports is that JR has ’some’ accuracy issue but it doesn’t show up as much was you would be led to assume by the reports come gameday based on his past performance. He’s young and he’ll only get better.
May 11th, 2009 at 8:06 pm
Practice!! Practice!!!
Are we talking about practice?? Practice!!
It’s practice Man!!!
LMAO
May 11th, 2009 at 8:10 pm
AI, that was funny. lol
May 11th, 2009 at 8:11 pm
SnB Defense Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
If the Raiders are going to be a run 1st team…they have to dominate on the ground. Dominate like the Giants do on the ground….dominate like the Vikings or Falcons….that’s a running game.
Just having guys go out and have 20 carries for 60 yards and with 1 carry for 20….is not dominating….
That’s why I want to see more DMAC and Michael Bush. Those two have demonstrated on the field the capability of taking a game over.
===================================================
I agree with you 100%, I was to see what our running game looks like with Bush leading the charge and McFadden splitting carries with Fargas on the bench if we need a 3rd.
May 11th, 2009 at 8:16 pm
did anyone see nfln today and justin fargas was #7 on the list of top trojans in the nfl usc and steve smith was on the list usc players must not be doing too in the nfl right now lol
May 11th, 2009 at 8:21 pm
So why did DHB sit out? I thought Cable was doing a press today?
May 11th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
hamstring
May 11th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
wow i just read something on raiders.com and the slowest time out of all our wr is 4.33
May 11th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
All the running rookies legs gave out.
May 11th, 2009 at 8:31 pm
If McFadden and Bush continue to improve there game and get better at picking up the pass rush then Fargas’s playing time will go down. Someone said earlier, “you mean Fargas is starting just because he pass blocks better.” Yes. There is no doubt Bush and McFadden are better running with the ball, but to a coach being able to pick up a block when needed is just as important. Last year McFadden was a rookie and Bush was in his first year of playing, and although they are great talents, they still have a lot to learn, although they are both gamers and I have no doubt they will learn. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them both being accomplished all around backs as soon as this year.
May 11th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
“During the offseason Russell has taken on the challenge of taking the next step as the Raiders starting quarterback. “It is a team sport so you have to be a team player. I have done everything that they have asked me to do to be a leader for my team, being a quarterback and knowing the ropes and what to do to bring everybody together,” said Russell.
Russell sees this minicamp as another opportunity to improve and move forward with the benefit of coaching and teaching. “It’s the same I get out of every single practice, another day of work, having the chance to get out and get better at your profession,” added Russell.”
———————–
Raiders.com
May 11th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
Raiderkoolaid,
I am all for playing the best player. Justin Fargas can block…but can he catch? I think Fargas needs to step his game up if he’s going to start. Again, the key is a dominant running game like the K.C game and the Tampa game. Those are the kind of games that the running back needs to have.
There are too many 20 carry 60 yard type games for my liking. A running game should generate at least 1 rushing TD per game. Not one every 5 or 6 games or more. The run game needs to be the difference. Right now the run game is “okay” but with the exception of two games (K.C and Tampa).
May 11th, 2009 at 8:39 pm
I think that happens often with rookies. I’ve never heard of it with receivers so much, but I doubt these guys are being lazy. Especially Louis Murphy, and DHB doesn’t seem to be the type to sit around just because he can.
——————–
KoolKell Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
All the running rookies legs gave out.
May 11th, 2009 at 8:39 pm
And Tim Brown’s quote really is weird.
May 11th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
Fargas is a hard runner through the line who always gives 110% but he has no second gear, explosion, or good moves once he gets into the secondary, hes third string at best with the other backs we have, they’ll learn to pass block as soon as they get the oppertunities in real game situations, 1st- dmac, 2nd bush, 3rd fargas
May 11th, 2009 at 8:43 pm
that tim brown quote was weird
May 11th, 2009 at 8:48 pm
It was Al Davis that drafted DMAC 4th overall and drafted Michael Bush in the 4th round…knowing that Bush was underrated. I guess my point is that the Raiders expected DMAC and Bush to become great backs.
They could have got away with only drafting one of the two…but Davis drafted both of them. Therefore the story on how they feel about Fargas is pretty clear. They don’t see him as the game breaker.
Also, the Raiders received offers for Bush and kept him…while they tried to trade FArgas and got no decent offers…
Gotta play the best players…
May 11th, 2009 at 8:56 pm
So, OTA’s start next Tues? Same format? Media availability?
May 11th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
KoolKell Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 8:56 pm
So, OTA’s start next Tues? Same format? Media availability?
======================================================= hopefully a more positive spin by the media coverage tho
May 11th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
Farglass?Lol people defend him as if he is good. You guys wants to lose I see.
May 11th, 2009 at 9:56 pm
Holy f’n fudge…..
For those of you who love to espouse on Al Davis being a supposed pioneer in race equality, give this a read. This is current, folks, from Tim Brown’s mouth. No rumor. And it’s pretty disturbing.
“Meeting Al (Davis) was pretty unique. I found out five or ten minutes after my first practice there that he hated African-American athletes from Notre Dame. And they literally told me that. They literally told me that because we’re known for using our education more than our athletic ability that he thought that I would be one of these guys that would basically take the money and run. I don’t know if that was a ploy to get me amped up, but it certainly worked.”
My goodness. If this is true, and of course it is, because Tim Brown could be hit for libel big time if it weren’t, not only is Al Davis a racist but Tim Brown is a spineless f’n sellout, too. What would it take for Al to offend you, Timmy? For him to tattoo “Property of Davis Family” on your butt and put a huge ring in your nose?
http://sportsradiointerviews.com/2009/05/11/tim-brown-elected-to-college-football-hall-of-fame-nfl-hall-of-fame-not-far-behind/
May 11th, 2009 at 10:07 pm
That would be the silver lining
May 11th, 2009 at 10:10 pm
Trolls: LMAO i have to give it to you … you dont let up do you..man i dont want you on my bad side LMAO
May 11th, 2009 at 10:13 pm
I cant believe P King ranked the Donkys in front of us… whats he smokin??? were gonna own, DO-MI-nATE!!!STEAMROLL!!!GUT!!! the AFC W.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:21 pm
Who wants to bet when I wake up tomorrow Al Davis’s mug will be on SportsCenter? This story aint going away.
May 11th, 2009 at 10:29 pm
MR i think your right but WHY now ???? TB wanted to come back and help AL get the team going in the right direction..why say that now???i dont get it
May 11th, 2009 at 10:43 pm
whut up late night nation?
May 11th, 2009 at 10:46 pm
I dont see the tim brown comment as all that bad
Davis simply expressed concern over Notre Dame athletes being finely educated and questioned their true will and desire for the game. That how I see it I dont know about the whole ”Al doesnt like black athletes from notre dame” quote but it sound more like a concern for heart and love of the game than a race issue to me
May 11th, 2009 at 10:52 pm
JT i hope its just a USC vs ND thing being AD’s love for USC… man i just cant see it being a race deal..it just doesnt make sence…A owner of an nfl team raceist….i dont think so its a USC vs ND thing
May 11th, 2009 at 10:59 pm
AD may do some dumb things ( dont we all ) but hes not stupid enough to think… or say things like that..i just cant beleive it..TB said he heard it…ive heard lots of things in the work place that are BS..i think this is one of those things
May 11th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
What’s up R8, how are you?
May 11th, 2009 at 11:05 pm
What did Tim Brown say? I cant find it!!
May 11th, 2009 at 11:18 pm
good point r8, davis was not directly quoted saying that it was just a heard it to the grape vine type of deal. All motivational it seems anyway
May 11th, 2009 at 11:29 pm
Do you guys know about TH’s web site? Mr.53.com.
He has his own blog too!! lol
May 11th, 2009 at 11:38 pm
“The experience he brings can help mold those young fullbacks in there,” Raiders coach Tom Cable said after seeing Neal for the first time on the opening day of Oakland’s three-day minicamp. “That guy has proven over time that he probably can run any run scheme in the NFL because he has been in them all, and been very good.
-Tom Cable
# Oakglenn Says:
April 29th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Lo plays a different style of FB than we play here. He would not fit the scheme. Unfortunately.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:39 pm
JT, were you dropped on your head at some point in your life? If Al specifically said black athletes at Notre Dame, it is a flat out racist comment, no matter how you cut it. And I love how you then latch on to a comment suggesting Al didn’t say it. Make up your mind. If there was nothing wrong with what he said, why would you go to denial mode? Your logic is just twisted. Go to any black person at your job tomorrow and tell them that black athletes at Notre Dame just take the money and run, and say it in those exact words, and see what happens.
Raider O, the link is in my comment above. I couldn’t find it on google news, either. The site has a transcript to an interview. And, the article is dated today. If it’s some sort of hoax, then good. I’d hate to think that Al Davis harbored such sick views. If this is true, and Tim Brown stands by it, it will ruin Al Davis’s legacy of being a pioneer in sports racial issues. In fact, the NFL may finally have an avenue to run him out of the league.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:42 pm
I guess T Brown wont be offered a job with the Oakland Raiders anytime soon.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:43 pm
O look at post 368
May 11th, 2009 at 11:43 pm
sorry maddenraider AKA Spock I have not watched the new star trek movie yet so I guess my logic is a little off LOL
either way the article said tim brown was told that al davis didnt like black athletes from notre dame. Al Davis himself did not say this to tim brown so who even knows if it is true. I was just stating my opinion on the quote as being one that questions heart and desire for the game black or white or green.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:44 pm
Thank you MR.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:45 pm
Walker wont be ready for the start of training camp.
The end.
Arman Shields, who has never seen the field yet gets mad props from OakGlenn and Priest may NEVER see the field if he doesnt get past his knee problems.
-SHILLENS
-HIGGINS
-BEY
-?
-?
May 11th, 2009 at 11:49 pm
-SHILLENS
-HIGGINS
-BEY
-harrison
-?holland
May 11th, 2009 at 11:49 pm
I don’t know MR.
Al hired Tom Flores and Art Shell. Also, players like Upshaw (RIP) loved him. Upshaw was a smart man, he wouldn’t have loved a Racist so much. IMHO
May 11th, 2009 at 11:50 pm
Drew Carter’s career is over ?
May 11th, 2009 at 11:54 pm
Tim said “they” who is they ?
AL has been called many things but racist has never been one of them.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:54 pm
JT, you just stated your opinion, and your opinion was about the dumbest thing I’d ever heard. Al Davis tells Tim Brown that he doesn’t like black athletes from Notre Dame, and you say that isn’t racist. Then you say it never happened. That’s not an opinion. That’s a monumental flip flop. If you think Al didn’t say it, then what would be the point of explaining the statement? If you think the statement was not racist, and perfectly acceptable, then why would you jump to the conclusion that he didn’t really say it as soon as someone else brought up the scenario? Because you know it’s racist. Go to bed, JT. This conversation is far above your intellect. That’s obvious.
May 11th, 2009 at 11:56 pm
Raider O, I don’t care of Al hired the Wu Tang Clan. That is a racist comment, no matter how you cut it. Art Shell and Tom Flores should wonder what Al must have thought of them if Al evidently doesn’t like smart minorities…
May 11th, 2009 at 11:57 pm
I don’t care IF Al hired the Wu Tang Clan, not “of”.
May 12th, 2009 at 12:01 am
MR,
What I was trying to say, I don’t think Al said that. My reason is listed above. Again, IMHO.
May 12th, 2009 at 12:03 am
MR,
I agree it’s a Racist Comment, but I don’t think Al could say such things!!
May 12th, 2009 at 12:05 am
He says “they”, but then says “Al”. He’s talking about Al. Even if he’s not, Al’s responsible. If LoCosalle or one of those goons said it? Same thing. But he says Al so if he’s telling the truth, he’s definitely talking about Al. Hey, I hope this is a hoax as much as you do. But if it’s not, Al’s finished, man. It would ruin his legacy as a pioneer for racial equality. He basically said he likes his black athletes stupid, so they won’t know how to negotiate a contract. Bye, Al. If Tim stands by this, the NFL will run Al out of the league. My prediction though is that Tim retracts the statement. If he doesn’t, Al’s gone. That’s over the top.
May 12th, 2009 at 12:09 am
If it’s true, then yes it will ruin his legacy.
May 12th, 2009 at 12:09 am
” I love black people”
May 12th, 2009 at 12:10 am
wishes we had little pictures next to our screen names, that would settle alot of arguments around here
May 12th, 2009 at 12:10 am
Good night MR.
Later Nation.
May 12th, 2009 at 12:13 am
who is the ” wu tang clan” u speak of?
May 12th, 2009 at 12:15 am
Raider O, after reading Marcus’s book, I believe Al would say such things. I believe Al Davis does have a problem with black players that racist whites would perceive as being “uppity”. In other words, educated and with resolve. I really believe that was his problem with Marcus. And, that’s just my opinion. Tie in Tim Brown’s statements, and it gives my opinion some serious mileage. I’m going to be watching Tim Brown closely now. If he retracts it and his retraction seems influenced by fear of litigation, or of course if he stands by his statements, I’m done with all of NFL football until they run Davis out. I won’t watch a sport with an owner that’s openly racist. Surely Al’s not the only racist owner, but being openly racist is another story. Telling a black player from Notre Dame that you don’t like black athletes from Notre Dame? Right to his face? My goodness. Marge Schott. Fuq that. Never mind boycotting the Raiders. I’d be done with football if the NFL didn’t move to get rid of Al in this instance. With Al gone, I could even be a Raider fan again. I know it’s beside the point but the team would even be better on the field, too. But that’s beside the issue right now. This is far more important.
May 12th, 2009 at 12:26 am
Did SharkCatcher already pass out? That was quick. I’ve been there, guy. S’tfaced, decide to log on, wake up at 7 in the morning with your face in the keyboard. I grew up and learned how to handle my alcohol. But I was an adolescent once, too. Don’t feel bad.
May 12th, 2009 at 12:59 am
night o
May 12th, 2009 at 1:16 am
MR: im a white man also and into beer # ??? but i still have a REALLY hard time believing AD is a racist..do you really think an owner of an nfl football team is a racist???? i dont think so i think it has more to do with USC vs ND then anything…i dont buy it…i hate he said she said BS
May 12th, 2009 at 1:19 am
Did AD say it to Tim Browns Face????Nope so take it for what its worth…he said she said BS
May 12th, 2009 at 1:24 am
Goodnight NATION
May 12th, 2009 at 4:44 am
What’s up nation man 4eva you sir have been on fire , I love you’re hardcore support and you can complain about russell all you want he look heavy in those pictures and with his pay their is no offseason!!!!
May 12th, 2009 at 5:32 am
I begin to wonder if Jerry was watching the same camp as Glenn Dickey because Dickey says Russell looked good. Maybe its just Jerry’s negative side gushing out but it makes you really wonder what he has been doing at those minicamps besides looking for the negatives first. I can understand the issues with dropped passes but those balls have been hitting receivers in the hands all camp according to others.
http://www.sfexaminer.com/sports/Dickey-Raiders-rookie-WR-makes-a-forgettable-first-impression–44761517.html
May 12th, 2009 at 5:41 am
Tim Brown playing the race card to promote himself, what a laugher. Hey Tim is that why did you call plays to yourself early in your career, to pad your stats? Only to drop passes at the most crucial times like in the playoffs and Superbowl. Let it go man your a has been.
May 12th, 2009 at 6:01 am
NOMOREFARGAS SAYS:
May 11th, 2009 at 9:49 am
Charles woodson was the man and last time I checked we where awesome with him so take you’re good character but we lose bs to another teams this is the Raiders “JUST WIN BABY”!
————————————————————-
If your definition of awesome consists of 3 winning seasons and 5 seasons at .500 or less then I guess you’d be correct. Raiders record during Charles Woodson’s tenure:
1998 8-8
1999 8-8
2000 12-4
2001 10-6
2002 11-5
2003 4-12
2004 5-11
2005 4-12
Woodson was far from a character guy and he choked. Every time he needed to step up and make a play to change the momentum of a game he gagged. Watch the “tuck rule” game. He was a product of hype. He was a little above average at best and was always too full of himself to ever be an elite player in a pro team sport.
In 2000-2002 they had the leaders to cancel out the riff raff. Notice that after all of the classy vets retired or left after the super bowl the team was in shambles again. Before 2000 they were average for a long time as well with the exception of the Bo Jackson years.
Character and work ethic is contagious and as long as it’s coupled with talent it results in wins. Sounds cliche but if you were a coach or a player ever and were any good, you’d know that. This is a solid nucleus of talent and if Cable is the guy to keep it together and develop it then this will be a solid football team for a long time.
2sense Says:
May 11th, 2009 at 6:36 am
This is the best character this team has had for as long as I can remember.
It’s nice to look at the roster and not see the names of hoodlum football players littering it. No Charles Woodson, James Trapp, Jerry Porter, Randy Moss, Jeff George, DeAngelo Hall, etc, etc, etc. There always seems to be that one piece of garbage that pouts, chokes or gives up when it counts the most. I don’t see that this year. It’s kind of refreshing.
Al has always put together a talented roster on the top end. Kiffin was on to something when he addressed the mid roster issues that the Raiders have had. The talent was there. It was the role players that were non existent. For some reason that’s too often overlooked.
I think Cable’s persuasion to bring in some scrap will be the difference maker. I also am pretty sure that I will be in front of my TV in week 17 watching the team with pride rather than anger and embarrassment regardless of record. I have a pretty good feeling about this team leaving it out there every week. As long as there is a solid core of scrap coupled with direction from the coaching staff, this team will develop into something special.
Only game day will tell us when.
May 12th, 2009 at 6:02 am
If you read Tim Brown’s quote (actually READ it), he does not say that Al Davis said those things. He said that “they” told him that Al hates African American athletes from Notre Dame.
No word from Timmy as to who “they” are, and as far as it being true; if Al supposedy did feel that way, why would he have drafted Brown in the first round?
As to why Timmy said what he said, well, if you look at his comments over the past few years it’s pretty clear that he likes seeing his name in print. Saying something controversial is the best way to make that happen these days because it’s not like you have to worry about the press vetting anything anymore.
May 12th, 2009 at 6:03 am
GOOD MORNING SPORT’S FAN’S,4EVA,NOMOREFARGAS,,,
May 12th, 2009 at 6:05 am
good morning Dirt Lot, ed teach, NMF, 4eva …
May 12th, 2009 at 6:05 am
I wonder if Tim Brown and Warren Sapp share a bunk bed to go along with the blow horn.
May 12th, 2009 at 6:05 am
Mike Florio disses San Diego and Norv Turner and gives a prop to the Raiders:
Last year, the San Diego Chargers needed a miracle to capture the watered-down AFC West and make it to the playoffs.
This year, lightning might not strike again.
On paper, the Chargers have the talent. But questions persist regarding whether Norv Turner is the right man for this or any NFL head-coaching job.
So even with Philip Rivers(notes), LaDainian Tomlinson(notes), Darren Sproles(notes) and a healthy Shawne Merriman(notes) and a healthy Jyles Tucker(notes) and a rookie first-rounder who does the same thing that both of them do, it might not be enough to make it four straight division titles in a wide-open AFC West featuring teams in Kansas City and Oakland that might be more dangerous than expected. (We can forget about the Broncos.)
May 12th, 2009 at 6:07 am
Davis had good reason to think the money might change Tim Brown, how soon we forget his power play with Denver for more money.
May 12th, 2009 at 6:12 am
#414 thanks for sharing MaddenRedneck …
Glenn Dickey says DHB is awful. Then follows it up by saying:
On the plus side of the minicamp, Russell was very impressive, throwing every kind of pass. He’s always had a strong arm and he’s learned to use a soft touch on short passes. If he gets good protection from the offensive line, which is still a question, he could have an outstanding year.
(which contradicts EVERYTHING we’ve read or heard about JaWalrus in camp over the weekend!)
May 12th, 2009 at 6:12 am
VERY WEEL SAID 2SENSE POST-417, HAVE ALWAY’S THOUGHT C.WOODSON COULD / SHOULD HAVE BEEN AN ALL TIMER, HALL OF FAME DB,INSTEAD WAS AS U SAID GOOD TO VERY GOOD , GOOD MORNING ROCKSTAR.
May 12th, 2009 at 6:16 am
VERY WELL SAID , SORRY..
May 12th, 2009 at 6:23 am
Morning Nation.
Ok, so now Al Davis is a supposedly a racist??? WTF – No way, no how!
Who are these “they” people Timmy B. refers to anyway, the ones that allegedly told him AD said this? In what context did “they” say it, was it just locker room BS, did “they” say it because the Raiders cut some clown from ND in the past, did “they” say it because Al wouldn’t give some ND athlete the contract he was looking for? This 2nd kind of chatter always gets lost in translation.
“They” said…. yeah right – THEY!!! Gimme a break!
May 12th, 2009 at 6:26 am
# RaiderRockstar Says:
May 12th, 2009 at 6:12 am
#414 thanks for sharing MaddenRedneck …
Glenn Dickey says DHB is awful. Then follows it up by saying:
On the plus side of the minicamp, Russell was very impressive, throwing every kind of pass. He’s always had a strong arm and he’s learned to use a soft touch on short passes. If he gets good protection from the offensive line, which is still a question, he could have an outstanding year.
(which contradicts EVERYTHING we’ve read or heard about JaWalrus in camp over the weekend!)
……………………..
Well said, exactly what I was thinking when I read Dickey’s comments.
May 12th, 2009 at 6:27 am
come on mods. give me a friggin break!
theres never any swearing in my posts …
May 12th, 2009 at 6:33 am
Samie Parker is from Long Beach, CA
May 12th, 2009 at 6:36 am
i’m sorry Dirt Lot. i’ll try to contain myself …
i have no self control or self discipline when it comes to profanity on Jerry Mac blogs
May 12th, 2009 at 6:43 am
ROCKSTAR, WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON LORENZO NEAL ?
May 12th, 2009 at 6:46 am
My question on Neal is does he still have the speed to get into the second level of the defense to block a linebacker before McFadden or Bush run up his butt?
May 12th, 2009 at 6:51 am
I think Lo Neal is the best offseason acquisition. Not just in free agency, but in the draft as well. of course draft picks are our future and Neal is only a stop gap, but you can’t put a price tag on leadership. What better role model for Bush, McFadden, Rankin & Lawton? Hopefully O’Neal doesn’t miss the entire season. Maybe he gets placed on the PUP list instead of IR and Lorenzo gets to take Oren under his wing as well. That would be ideal
May 12th, 2009 at 6:53 am
I’d much rather have a FB combo of Neal/Lawton than Pittman/Lawton, Lawton/Reece or Lawton/Bush!
May 12th, 2009 at 6:59 am
Can’t wait to see Bush running right behind Neal, and Neal can catch the occasional pass.
GO RAIDERS!!!!!!!
May 12th, 2009 at 7:00 am
DEPTH IS A MUST, JUST SEEM’S 1 OR 2 OF THESE COUD BE A STAR SOMEWHERE ELSE..
May 12th, 2009 at 7:11 am
Oh no. The sky is falling! DHB dropped a couple of passes in his FIRST professional mini-camp and Russell threw some bad passes. The season is over.
Ridiculous.
May 12th, 2009 at 7:13 am
I hope the media keeps trashing Russell & DHB. The Chargers will stuff 9 guys in the box on our first offensive play on MNF and JR will find DHB streaking down the sideline for an 80 yard TD catch
May 12th, 2009 at 7:16 am
is Jerry doing a live chat today?
I’d like to ask him when Javon Walker is expected to be back out on the field …
May 12th, 2009 at 7:19 am
RR yep at 1:00 pst
May 12th, 2009 at 7:23 am
Oh no. The sky is falling! DHB dropped a couple of passes in his FIRST professional mini-camp and Russell threw some bad passes. The season is over.
***
Crabtree isn’t even going to be ready until training camp. He’s not a participant at 49ers mini-camps. You wonder just how many bad throws they saw from Alex Smith!?
May 12th, 2009 at 7:24 am
Lot’s of young receivers have problems holding onto the ball. Heck, Jerry Rice dropped something like 15 passes his rookie year, and T.O. had hands of stone early on.
Once DHB gets comfortable he’ll be fine and I hope they keep running him with the first team opposite our starting corners. That will definitely put him on a fast track, verses playing against much lesser talent.
May 12th, 2009 at 7:26 am
Smith and Hill shared all the snaps. Hill was given the first snaps. Damon Huard is not attending the minicamp. Nate Davis was nursing what appeared to be a hamstring strain. Smith’s passes had nice zip, though some were off target.
Undrafted cornerback Jahi Word-Daniels picked off a Smith-to-Morgan sideline pass that hung up in the air.
Michael Crabtree was on a stationary bike.
-Matt Barrows (Sac Bee)
***
LOL. what did I tell ya?
May 12th, 2009 at 7:27 am
DHB is going to abuse Nnamdi in the next camp. watch
May 12th, 2009 at 7:33 am
Neal and Bush should put some bruises on the opposing linebackers—- and gain a lot of yardage doing it.
May 12th, 2009 at 7:53 am
new post up ladies …
May 12th, 2009 at 8:10 am
…As unhappy ,but not exactly suprised, as I am by Chubbustus’ accuracy issues, perhaps one of the bright spots ,as reported , is Turdell Sands in visably better condition…
Perhaps the next time our resident playground bully wishes to challenge Shane Lechter, the subsiquent confrontation might more aptly be discribed as “David vs Goliath jr”…
…Dakota, Remember during the Laker pre-season, Lamar Odom’s inappropiate- “too cool for school” reaction to his intentional/ unintentional pass out of bounds ?
…Based on the recent embarrasing debacle in Houston, Odom’s affliction appears contagious….
May 12th, 2009 at 8:42 am
Uhh Jerry, what happened to my long-winded post where I explained(and provided quotes/facts) that says Al Davis is a racial pioneer. Is it so threatening that I show Maddenpansy what a liar he is and give props to Al Davis?
May 12th, 2009 at 8:48 am
Here’s a more condensed version…
Hired first African-American Head Coach
Hired first Hispanic Head Coach
Hired first African-American official
Hired first African-American league executive
Draft first African-American QB in first round
Drafted first African-American QB #1 overall
Quotes from African-Americans
“Racism in this organization was not an issue. Mr. Davis would
not let that happen.” Art Shell
Brad Pye, Jr., Former AFL administrative assistant, first African-American administrator in football
“A lot of people think of Al Davis as a maverick. He’s also a maverick in opening up opportunities for minorities.”
Dr. Aaron C. Wade, former AFL official, first African-American official
“I’d say he’s a trailblazer. He had no color barrier.”
Willie Lanier:
“Hiring (minority) coaches, players, this is something he did over the years. This is not something new where he came to some politically correctness in the 1990s.”
Denny Greene:
“I think Al Davis opened up the game up. I think he opened the game up for the African- American athlete.”
Willie Brown:
“He’s a pioneer, in terms of getting black players to play and letting them be the best they can be.”
Bernie Custis, Black quarterback and teammate of Al Davis at Syracuse University, 1948-50:
“I came to know Al as someone that lived by a certain code and this code was to judge everybody by their content of their character and capabilities and nothing else. That’s the code that I detected at the time and I think it’s stayed with him throughout the years.”
Gene Upshaw:
“It was Sid Gilman and Al Davis who said here’s an opportunity to give these people (black players) a chance to play.”
George Atkinson:
“Al found a ton of good players in the black schools.”
Eddie Robinson:
“Al’s word was important. If he’s tell you something, this is it.”
Defiance led to tolerance
Oakland Tribune, Sep 25, 2006 by Jerry McDonald
…
Clem Daniels was one of those players.
“We had to take stands to break down a lot of the bigotry and things that were going on,” Daniels said. “There were still some very segregated cities, and we were confronted with a lot of situations. And that’s the best thing I can say about Al Davis — he backed us.”
Davis moved a Raiders preseason game from Mobile, Ala., to Frank Youell Field in Oakland because of the concerns of his African- American players, which included Daniels, Powell, Bo Roberson and Fred Williamson.
He did it despite losing gate receipts for attendance that would have been considerably more than the 8,317 that came to the rescheduled game in Oakland.
In Mobile, the stands were segregated and blacks were not allowed to use the bathroom, Powell said.
Daniels said the black players met and told sportswriters they wouldn’t play. He also said he told Davis.
“He said, ‘I’ll call (AFL Commissioner) Joe Foss and get it changed,’” Daniels said. “Just like that.”
Davis, Powell and Daniels were also involved in having the 1965 AFL All-Star Game moved from New Orleans to Houston when 23 black players left town in protest over the way they were treated.
“When we got to New Orleans, I get my luggage, run into the street, hail down a cab, and the driver says, ‘I can’t take you,’” Powell said. “I said, ‘What do you mean, you can’t take me?’ He says he can only have white customers and that I had to find myself a colored cab. There weren’t a hell of a lot of colored cabs at the airport in those days.”
“Colored cabs,” according to Raiders assistant coach and Hall of Fame cornerback Willie Brown, came with restrictions in terms of where they could and couldn’t go.
“They wouldn’t go in certain areas,” said Brown, who made the All- Star team playing for Denver in 1965. “They’d drop you off.”
Black players met at their hotel and signed a legal pad produced by Powell in which they decided not to play.
In the book “America’s Game, the Epic Story of how Pro Football Captured a Nation,” author Michael MacCambridge writes that city officials produced Ernest N. “Dutch” Morial, an African American who would later be the city’s first black mayor.
Morial, the first African American to receive a law degree from Louisiana State, told players they were overreacting and defended the New Orleans record on civil rights.
Powell remembers feeling insulted.
“He blamed it all on Dr. (Martin Luther) King, that he was a troublemaker for trying to do change,” Powell said. “I told the guy, ‘You just blew it. Those were the worst possible combination of words you could have said.’”
Powell said he then got a call from Davis, who said he would see what he could do. Players left New Orleans, and by the time most of them had gotten back home, the game was moved to Houston.
Davis, in an Aug. 1 press conference, talked about how the 1960s affected the Raiders and professional sports.
“In’65, we had cultural revolution in this country,” Davis said. “We had the Watts riots, we had Detroit, we had Martin Luther King in’68 getting killed. It’s tough to go back in retrospect and remember, but there was a little turmoil in every organization, in every league, over the diversity issue and what was going to happen about it in the country.”
Davis helped build the Raiders into a power by aggressively seeking talent from small, predominantly black colleges.
“He’d have someone go to Grambling, Southern, Jackson State, Alcorn State, all the black schools,” Brown said.
Art Shell, whom Davis made the NFL’s first African-American coach in 1989, is fond of recounting the Raiders draft class of 1968, in which he was taken in the third round.
That year Davis also selected quarterback Eldridge Dickey of Tennessee A&I in the first round, George Atkinson of Morris Brown in the seventh round and tight end John Eason of Florida A&M in the ninth round.
“He has always felt, and he tells me to to this day, that there are players in those schools,” Shell said. “They’re out there. You’ve just got to find them.”
Powell said he always appreciated the fact that Davis stuck by him when he requested a trade to Buffalo in 1966 so he could pursue a business opportunity in Toronto.
Labeled as a locker room lawyer and a divisive force by some of football’s establishment, Davis’ parting words have stuck with Powell 40 years later.
“He told me, ‘Don’t let people try and get it in your head that you should change. There’s nothing wrong with you,’” Powell said. “He could have just said adios.”
By the time Shell arrived in 1968, players such as Powell and Daniels had helped pioneer a more tolerant era.
“There were a lot of people that took a stand, and I’m very appreciative of it,” Shell said. “I would hope that if players today would go back and look at their history, how things occurred, they would appreciate it too.”
Brown said he doubts there is a single player on the Raiders roster who knows any details of the struggles of African-American players in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
“That’s the thing that’s changing about our society,” Shell said.
“They don’t know their history. Players don’t know the history of this league or the history of the team they’re playing for. I think that’s regrettable because they’re missing out on a lot.”
May 12th, 2009 at 9:25 am
Good post #446. As for the JaMarcuss bashers, I don’t think you really watch the games, do you? There were throws over 30-40 yds in the Denver game where he hit Ashley Lelee in double coverage, the Ravens game where he hit Chaz Schilins, the Texans game where he hit Higgins. His range where he throws most accurately is from 20-50.
I was a receiver in College. Most routes are option (depending on the defense) and timing plays. If I ran the wrong route or made the wrong read, the QB would throw the ball based on where I was SUPPOSED to be. To the naked eye it would look like he made a horrible throw. The QB has about a three second process time on any given play, that gives 75% of them “accuracy” issues.
J-Russ has started one year and is the best QB we have had since Gannon, and the only one we have trained from the draft up (worth anything) Since Stabler. Wait. He is not Marinavich. He will be at the very least good. If you watched the last six games (when Cable took over play calling), there was an improvement.
I am glad that Al D is more patient than some of you, because you guys would trade him and watch him be “Elway” for someone else. Then you would say we were crazy for trading him….be patient (it was a practice).
May 12th, 2009 at 9:55 am
I watched all the games too…
Raider Joseph,… the Earth is not flat, and you are in denial…
When Chubbustus indeed had protection,( admittedly a rare sight- thanks largely in part to the dufus-tackle-bookends), routinely,… he couldn’t hit the broadside of Caveman Ryan’s pickeled liver…
To make matters worse, he was noticeably absent on his off days- failing to at least ATTEMPT to do whatever it takes to compete at the level of Mssrs Brady, Manning etc…
A visably improved work ethic would do wonders to deflect inherent critisism…
May 14th, 2009 at 9:47 am
Dont be creul bloggers…
To the Mod/Troll when she is on her period she will boot you from this blog.
That angry little gal needs some love….who wants to pork a fat chick
March 5th, 2012 at 11:50 am
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