Camp analysis: Offensive line
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Friday, July 24th, 2009 at 9:24 am in Oakland Raiders.
Fifth in a series of posts analyzing Raiders position groups, with players reporting to training camp Tuesday:
Projected starters: LT Mario Henderson, LG Robert Gallery, C Samson Satele, RG Cooper Carlisle, RT Khalif Barnes. Backups: C John Wade, C-G Chris Morris, G Jonathan Compas, G Marcus Johnson, G-T Paul McQuistan, T James Marten, T Cornell Green, T Erik Pears, T Mark Wilson.
When Tom Cable finally pulled the plug on the Kwame Harris experiment _ his biggest personnel mistake since joining the Raiders _ the much-maligned Henderson got his chance and got the better of Richard Seymour, Mario Williams and Gaines Adams in the last three games, making him the front-runner to protect the blind side of JaMarcus Russell. As time passes, Gallery’s contract doesn’t look all that ridiculous. He’s making what an elite guard makes. The only thing between Gallery and Pro Bowl recognition is a winning season. Satele was a two-year starter in Miami who had trouble moving some of the elite interior linemen of the AFC East but played with a shoulder injury which has since been surgically repaired. Carlisle’s play slipped in 2008 after a strong 2007, but the Raiders thought enough of him to re-sign him when he hit free agency. Green was never expected to be a starting right tackle, but there he is. Ideally, either Henderson, Barnes or Pears seizes the position. Pears was a starter in Denver in 2007 with experience in the zone blocking system. Morris is a system fit who can play both guard and center. Johnson was a former Minnesota second-round draft pick who Cable envisions as a guard rather than a tackle, a switch which worked for Gallery. McQuistan, out with a knee injury last year, is a mauler whose work in space makes him suspect for the system. Marten is big and agile, but never got a sniff after being claimed off Dallas’ practice squad last year even though tackles were struggling. Compas could be a practice squad candidate. Wilson keeps hanging around, and in the zone blocking system, sometimes obscure linemen emerge.
The key battle: Henderson vs. Barnes. Winner anchored at left tackle. Runner-up moves to the right.
What I think: Henderson endured public potshots from Lane Kiffin last year, but never really had the confidence of Cable, either, who kept playing Harris even though he was mostly a disaster. The third-year tackle does have the support of Al Davis, who duly noted in a press conference how Henderson made Seymour, Williams and Adams disappear. It will be a major surprise if he doesn’t start the season at left tackle, and he likely won’t get as much help as he has in the past. It’s time to put Henderson on the island. Barnes had a season in Jacksonville which was similar to Harris’ season with the Raiders, full of false starts and sacks allowed. He’s on a one-year contract in hopes of boosting his value, and needs to be sold on the merits of changing positions and then brought up to speed. If the Raiders are again weak at tackle, it puts Russell at risk in terms of both injury and would reduce his chances to be an effective quarterback even if he remains upright. One thing in the line’s favor _ if Lorenzo Neal still has all his skill as a blocking fullback, everyone just got a little better.
What could go wrong: There is very little in the way of proven depth. Injury or ineffectiveness puts Green back on the field, and there are no guards on the roster who approach the experience or cut-blocking skill of Gallery or Carlisle.
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July 24th, 2009 at 9:26 am
I don’t even want to read this one…Satele, Green, Barnes….yikes.
July 24th, 2009 at 9:31 am
Dude Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 9:23 am
Dakota,
I dont know many great backs who when healthy dont even get in the damn game, but hey thats just me, I am crazy like that.
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Marcus Allen? Bush may have gotten a bit of the Marcus Allen treatment last year for refusing the move to FB? Hopefully, Al has put aside that slight, he is a forgiving man right? lol
July 24th, 2009 at 9:36 am
We need to draft OL, DT, and LB in 2010.
July 24th, 2009 at 9:37 am
Dakota,
Ask Steve Beuerlein how forgiving AD is. LOL
July 24th, 2009 at 9:39 am
Last season:
Satele 4.5 sacks allowed 4 penalties
Barnes 7.5 sacks allowed 9 penalties
Green 7.5 sacks allowed 8 penalties
Man, I sure hope Satele’s problems last year were really due to the shoulder, and I really hope that Cable doesn’t try Barnes at LT! If Barnes can be moved to RT, maybe he will give up fewer sacks and have fewer penalties against based DEs?
Offensively, our season probably depends on their performances at C and RT.
July 24th, 2009 at 9:43 am
Wow i guess anything is better than going into the season with Kwame harris at LT poor jruss who could be good with that guy he was even worse than t-rex arms at LT .
July 24th, 2009 at 9:43 am
Pears is the dark horse. Lets hope he pushes mophandle off the roster.
July 24th, 2009 at 9:46 am
Barnes played great for the Jags at LT except last year, so I think he will be a solid RT for us
Satele did well for someone who played with an injury. IMHO
July 24th, 2009 at 9:47 am
Is Kwame out of the league? UFL material?
July 24th, 2009 at 9:51 am
We are gouno into this season with 3 new players on the Oline:
Mario: LT
Satele: C
Barnes: RT
I think the 2 OTs are an upgrade from what we had last year. I don’t much about Satele, so I I can’t tell you if he is better or worse than Grove.
We will know soon.
July 24th, 2009 at 9:51 am
LMAO.
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Michael Jackson wore a prosthetic nose, according a report — and it was missing from his surgically mangled face as he lay in an LA morgue.
Left behind was a small, dark hole surrounded by bits of cartilage, Rolling Stone magazine said, citing witnesses who saw the King of Pop’s body on the autopsy table.
Jackson, who was notoriously shy about his appearance, wore the prosthetic to mask the effects of decades of plastic surgery, according to the magazine, due to hit newsstands today.
July 24th, 2009 at 9:57 am
No wonder the dude wanted to sleep for weeks at a time…yikes.
July 24th, 2009 at 10:04 am
good afternoon Dakota, BSJ, Raider O, NMF, Exla …
July 24th, 2009 at 10:05 am
Michael Jackson – What a sad tragic tale!
People took advantage of this guy since he left Gary, IN. He became a living “meal ticket” for way to many people.
He was emotionally manipulated for years.
July 24th, 2009 at 10:06 am
It will be a major surprise if he doesn’t start the season at left tackle, and he likely won’t get as much help as he has in the past. It’s time to put Henderson on the island. Barnes had a season in Jacksonville which was similar to Harris’ season with the Raiders, full of false starts and sacks allowed.
***
Finally somebody tells it like it is! thanks Jerry …
unless Danny Southwick starts at QB the o-line is gonna have to allow fewer than 30 sacks this season for us to have success
July 24th, 2009 at 10:16 am
shimon !!!
July 24th, 2009 at 10:19 am
RR,
What do you think of the 3 new players on the OL? Are they an upgrade or a downgrade?
July 24th, 2009 at 10:24 am
Last year 8 QB’s were sacked more time than Russell.
Matt Cassel
Ben Roethlisberger
David Garrard
Marc Bulger
Jason Campbell
Ryan Fitzpatrick
Aaron Rodgers
Joe Flacco
of those teams, only Big Ben & Joe Flacco made the playoffs. The Rams, Bengals, Jags & Ravens wisely drafted a mammoth tackle in Round 1.
The Patriots elected to trade down and grab one in Round 2.
The Packers drafted 2 tackles & the best FB in rounds 4 and 5.
The Steelers took one in Round 3. then signed their franchise tag player Max Starks to a long term deal.
The Redskins are in a similar situation we are, allowing Stephon Heyer to replace Jon Jansen. 7 starts last year. going into his 3rd NFL season
what have we done?
are Barnes & Satele replacing Harris & Grove enough?
July 24th, 2009 at 10:28 am
Henderson has to come along or were short on the left end. Neal will be a blessing for us. The dude is a real playa.
July 24th, 2009 at 10:29 am
What do you think of the 3 new players on the OL? Are they an upgrade or a downgrade?
***
I’m not sure G Jonathan Compas, G Marcus Johnson & T Erik Pears will make the roster. However, I don’t think Lorenzo Neal, Samson Satele & Khalif Barnes could do much worse than Marcel Reece, Jake Gorve or Kwame Harris. of course we didn’t think a LT could do any worse than Barry Sims either and we were wrong!
July 24th, 2009 at 10:32 am
are Barnes & Satele replacing Harris & Grove enough?
***
is that enough? sorry. I live in the Ozarks
July 24th, 2009 at 10:34 am
Drew Bennett worked out at the Ravens’ training complex this morning along with D.J. Hackett, Chris Hannon and Justin Brown.
***
what about Drew Carter, Ashley Lelie & Jerry Porter? did their invitations get lost in the mail?
LOL
July 24th, 2009 at 10:34 am
Rockstar…do you remember the day we signed Barnes and someone posted that youtube clip of his “highlights” in here? Man, what a sinking feeling I had when I watched that, lol…but I still had hope Cable could turn him around!!! lol
July 24th, 2009 at 10:44 am
me too Dakota. Cable is a mixed bag
sometimes he can take trash and create treasure
other times he’ll take trash that shows no signs of treasure and he tries to sell it time and time again until we’re all sick of his sales pitch and ready to throw the remote at the TV!
If you’re the O-Line coach how in the world can you start this guy and defend him or his play? and why flip flop your opinion about his backup? Henderson should have been the starter since Week 2, on an island or otherwise
July 24th, 2009 at 10:48 am
sorry Dakota. I got off track … haha
let’s hope Barnes is more like treasure
is he pushing anybody?
Last year Henderson wasn’t and he ended up being our best tackle on the roster. Al Davis has a better eye for talent than Tom Cable. should we be concerned about that?
July 24th, 2009 at 10:48 am
gotta get back to work. see you guys later (if I get time)
July 24th, 2009 at 10:53 am
I am pretty concerned with all aspects of Tom Cable as a head coach in the NFL…some choose to remember two wins against the Texans and a Bucs team that was a shell of it’s former self, but I can’t get the prior two games out of my head…remember…when Cable had us looking like a powder-puff squad against NE and SD?
I guess many fans have blocked out of their memory those games under Cable, or tried to somehow blame Kiffin, lol.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:00 am
Until Al Davis starts drafting linemen in the first round, we will continue to lose.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:10 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 10:06 am
unless Danny Southwick starts at QB the o-line is gonna have to allow fewer than 30 sacks this season for us to have success
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Yes, we need a QB with size AND strength. Russell fumbles too often for a big boy and doesn’t sense when to step up in the pocket.
I have patience that JRuss will hine these skills someday and will get his shot. Hell, at 27 Southwick can’t play forever…
July 24th, 2009 at 11:11 am
We did draft an o-lineman in #2 overall in the 1st round. Robert Gallery. The guy that was supposed to be the LT for the Raiders for the next decade or so. Gallery is nothing more than an expensive guard. The excuses used to justify his marginal play at best is pathetic. Gallery would make the pro-bowl if the Raiders were a playoff team. Please. Four of the guards named to the pro-bowl were not on playoff teams.
1. Alan Faneca NYJ
2. Brian Waters SEA
3. Leonard Davis Dal
4. Davin Joseph TB
Gallery is a servicable guard, but nothing special.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:11 am
“…hone these skills…
July 24th, 2009 at 11:11 am
both the NE and SD games were over before the 1st Qtr was.not many teams would have been able to come back and be competitive in either,especially a young fragile one like we were.personally,i put both those loses on the shoulders of the Def. for allowing the game to get out of hand so quickly.and we all know the who ran those Defenses-none other than Rob”incompetent”Ryan.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:16 am
i’m a sittin’ at my desk…
crusin’ the internet…
and a honin’ my skills !!!!
July 24th, 2009 at 11:16 am
why worry so much about whether a guy makes the Pro Bowl when any true fan knows it is nothing but a popularity contest,especially lineman.Gallery is a very good RT.the Raiders have won when we’ve had very good RTs,remember guys named Wiznewski and Upshaw?
July 24th, 2009 at 11:17 am
RT ???
did they change the meaning of RT ???
July 24th, 2009 at 11:18 am
sorry,i meant left tackle.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:20 am
AL has to get a good lineman in the draft. Ala Big Steve Wiznewski, Hell Gallery is turning into a good find…albiet not at LT but he is pro bowl level where he is. We gotta stop taking old playas that are looking for another check. We need to draft some youngins to open lanes and protect the passer.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:20 am
Lefty,
Both of them were gaurds..
July 24th, 2009 at 11:21 am
your right though… They were very good and so were the Raiders
July 24th, 2009 at 11:21 am
Dakota Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 10:53 am
I am pretty concerned with all aspects of Tom Cable as a head coach in the NFL…some choose to remember two wins against the Texans and a Bucs team that was a shell of it’s former self, but I can’t get the prior two games out of my head…remember…when Cable had us looking like a powder-puff squad against NE and SD?
I guess many fans have blocked out of their memory those games under Cable, or tried to somehow blame Kiffin, lol.
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The encouraging sign re: Cable is that he changed the team attitude. No scheme or HOF coach can win with a team that quits when things get tough. That was OUR team for the last few years.
I would not have expected Lombardi himself to get that team to play with guts at the end of last season – a season in which the Raiders were the league laughingstock. Cable did it, and with a young team. Which is encouraging.
Only when a team plays with heart can a good coach make an impact with playcalling, halftime adjustments, etc.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:21 am
I’m going to look on the bright side with Cable.
The team turned around in a meeting between the players and Cable. Ryan wasn’t there nor any Kiffin loyalists. A small step maybe, but a step in the right direction.
I like the new assistants, they have some experience and Cable needs them as much as the players do.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:23 am
I guess many fans have blocked out of their memory those games under Cable, or tried to somehow blame Kiffin, lol.
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The only thing I’m trying to block out is the horrible memory of Lance Kitten. The guy was horrible in all aspects of coaching. Talk about a team cancer. Kitten has nothing on T.O. or Sandy Mossy. Kitten caused a division in the locker room, the coaching staff, the front office, and the fans. Remember the, “I’m all in” crap? All in what? All in over my head. I’m all into destroying the Raiders. There were just so many people/fans that bought into his crap. Cable may not be the best coach in the NFL, but he’s 100% better than Kitten and his 75 yard FG attempts etc.. etc..etc..
July 24th, 2009 at 11:24 am
cant dude’s mom still play LT????
July 24th, 2009 at 11:25 am
The big question is Henderson on an island. Last year Miller and Fargas spent alot of time helping Henderson. Cable talked about drafting a blocking TE to free up Miller. DO THE MATH. You don’t “free up a TE” on running plays. If you pass out of a 2 TE set you sacrafice a receiver because your Tackle can’t block. If you need a RB or TE to help block when the D rushes 4, your O-line isn’t good.
Barnes is a 50/50. He can be Cable’s next Gallery or his next Harris. Cable seems to be a better LINE coach (meaning the line as a unit) than a individual lineman coach.
Satele – All the Grove bashers talked about Grove not handling “elite” DTs. Really? That’s why they’re called “elite”! Only “elite” Centers handle elite DTs. Satele is scouting exactly like Grove. “A decent guy who struggles against elite DTs.” Wow, where have I heard that before? The big question “is he an upgrade?” is tricky since a guy named Bill Parcels let him go and took Grove.
I’d say the O-line will look good running, spotty in pass protection and will have issues in short yardage power running situations.
Of course when Fargas runs into a brick wall it’ll be his fault and when Bush does it’ll be the O-line’s fault.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:25 am
Az-i know.i’m not with it yet today.late night,not enough sleep i guess.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:25 am
Maybe, but we need a RT Oaklifer…
July 24th, 2009 at 11:26 am
OAKlifer Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 11:24 am
cant dude’s mom still play LT????
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LaDainian Tomlinson ????
July 24th, 2009 at 11:29 am
Florida Pete Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 11:16 am
i’m a sittin’ at my desk…
crusin’ the internet…
and a honin’ my skills !!!!
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You’re a true professional Pete. You lead the league each year and in the offseason you just work harder.
Let’s start a union: The Brotherhood of Professional Raider Fans – B.P.R.F.
Only requirement is you have to get paid to discuss your team (anyone remember the old Stallone movie F.I.S.T.? Now that was a good union movie…kickin some management azz…)
July 24th, 2009 at 11:32 am
COW,i was thinking the other day it’s funny how everyone complains about the lack of TDs by Fargas yet totally overlooks the lack of TDs by Miller.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:34 am
Needed Miller to block in the red zone to try and get Fargas his 8th TD of his career. It was the least we could do for him.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:34 am
Since it is a blog how about…
Brotherhood of Anonymous Raider Fans? B.A.R.F.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:35 am
…never happened though.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:37 am
so you are admitting the O-line wasn’t good enough to block for the RB without help but then you blame the RB for lack of production.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:38 am
I admit only that most NFL teams run 2 TE sets in goaline formations to RUN THE BALL.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:40 am
The O-line never had problems run blocking… Pass protection was an issue early on both sides. The LT spot was solid with Henderson. Gallery is a beast at gaurd, regaurdless what people say (and yes I agree, its a bummer we drafted him as a Tackle). The right side is the issue now.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:41 am
I blame the coaching staff for RB’s lack of production… Wrong running back getting all the carries.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:42 am
RB and Line go hand in hand unless your name is Barry Sanders. He could make our line look like Hall of Fame for those who remember the guy.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:44 am
why limit the discussion of the TE catching passes to goal-line situations.the TE can catch TDs from anywhere on the field and are particularly effective in the red zone.i’m certainly not knocking Miller,just trying to point out the total lack of production from the Off. in general.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:47 am
AZ,i don’t totally agree with the premise that the O-line never had problems with the running game.we weren’t very effective in short yardage situations.and i remember all the RBs getting stuffed,not just one.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:48 am
This team is built to operate in space. Goalline there is no “deep threat” the zone speed blockers get smashed etc…
DMAC had short yardage plays too and did no better. PLUS more than once Jerry reported on how Bush was not “the short yardage back the team was hoping he’d be”.
Grove-Carlisle-Green aren’t a power right side.
Why don’t they sub in McQ at RG on short yardage?
July 24th, 2009 at 11:50 am
I agree our offense as a whole was poor… Miller however whas the only bright spot until Higgins and Schilens got thier chances to start, and they both were impressive.
I don’t have any facts on this but it seemed like every offensive TD we had last season was set up by Miller and Russell making up for the rest of the teams lack of production.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:51 am
COW,
I’d like to see more McQ as well… Don’t know why he kinda disappeared.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:54 am
he was the year with an injury.just like Mac couldn’t run more often than he did BECAUSE he too was injured.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:55 am
he was out…
July 24th, 2009 at 11:55 am
MCQ is missing skill and isnt a zone blocker which requires you to be effective without a body on your sideds…MCQ is a brute strength playa so he has good value.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:56 am
Henderson started 5 games last year.
KC, Miami, New England, Houston & Tampa Bay …
we lost to the Pats & Dolphins (playoff teams)
we beat the teams we should have beat with the talent on the roster.
Until this team can start beating QUALITY football teams, we’ll never be on top in our division.
as much as it pains me to say this, even with Norv Turner as HC, the Chargers are still a quality football team. In order to be the best you have to beat the best. they have been the best in our division for a while now. Cable has plenty of time to prepare for this game. If we get blown out in the opener (like 2006) that will set the tone for yet another disappointing season imo
July 24th, 2009 at 11:56 am
Lefty, why is it fair or logical to compare a RB that has produced 7 career TDs in what, six or seven seasons, (the last two of which have been behind an o-line that has been very good at run blocking) to a wet behind the ears TE playing with schit QBs and an o-line that has trouble pass protecting?
Seems like an apples to oranges comparison to me.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:58 am
be back later (again)
July 24th, 2009 at 11:58 am
lefty12 Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 11:47 am
AZ,i don’t totally agree with the premise that the O-line never had problems with the running game.we weren’t very effective in short yardage situations.and i remember all the RBs getting stuffed,not just one.
……………………………………………….
We’ll in the beginning of the season we were rarely in 3rd and short situations. 3rd and long usually. Then we’d run DMAC up the gut (smart LOL). Anyways, I thought bush did well in short yardage once he got a rythum. Bush seemed inaffective until he got a few snapps under his belt and got the feel for it. I’m not concerned about our ability to run the ball.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
1st drive of 2008 -
Healthy DMAC 1st n goal Den 8 – (5:19) 20-D.McFadden up the middle to DEN 7 for 1 yard (51-J.Winborn, 58-N.Webster).
Two plays later JR fumbles to kill drive.
KC week 2
3rd n 2 at KC 21 (7:45) 20-D.McFadden right tackle to KC 22 for -1 yards (91-T.Hali, 70-A.Boone).
It goes on all season and it isn’t all Fargas
July 24th, 2009 at 12:14 pm
COW,
Who the H*ll puts DAMC in Goal line unless your going to pitch? Oh, Kiffin did… We ran up the gut for 2 yrds on 3rd and 11 too, but…
July 24th, 2009 at 12:14 pm
week 3 Buff
1 n 5 at Buf 25 – DMAC gains 2
2 drives later
2 n 10 BUF 19 (1:21) 29-M.Bush up the middle to BUF 17 for 2 yards (99-M.Stroud, 92-R.Denney).
both drives end up FGs in a game we lose by 1.
2nd n 6 BUF 11 – (2:51) 20-D.McFadden right guard to BUF 11 for no gain (56-K.Ellison). OAK-66-C.Carlisle was injured during the play. C.Carlisle walks slowly off field. D.McFadden slipped at line.
3rd n 6 BUF 11 – (2:24) 20-D.McFadden right guard to BUF 14 for -3 yards (26-A.Youboty).
FG again
DMAC n Bush didn’t lose the Buff game but they didn’t win it either when they could have.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
I’ve said it over and over again… The only coach who’s plays were more predictable than Lame Kiffin was Callahan in the SB agaist TB.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Bo Schembechler Jackson Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 11:29 am
You’re a true professional Pete. You lead the league each year and in the offseason you just work harder.
Let’s start a union: The Brotherhood of Professional Raider Fans – B.P.R.F.
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and let’s not forget our brethren: The Brotherhood of Amateur Raider Fans – B.A.R.F.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:18 pm
AZ DMAC and Bush should be phasing out Fargas who is the ideal back-up in style / attitude etc…
My point is, the O-line and coaching and QB play better improve or our red zone offense will stink no matter who is at HB.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
yawn… I’m over the “Fargas is our best RB” debate.
After KC DMAC was not the same… Bush, as I said earlier, seems to need a few snaps before he gets a rythum going, but we plug him in for 1 snap and he’s off the field. When we start using our personel the way we should and they are still not producing I’ll continue with it…
July 24th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
ok, agreed.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:24 pm
AZ, I’d rather have DMAC on the goal line than Fargas. DMAC has had some success running up the gut for a couple yards, so I would have done the same.
Now Kiffin’s play calling on 3rd and long, well that was just fVcking stupid.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
AZ Raider Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
I’ve said it over and over again… The only coach who’s plays were more predictable than Lame Kiffin was Callahan in the SB agaist TB.
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nobody… and i mean nobody… was more predicable than Art Shell back in the early nineties…
it was horrible…
i still get the shakes…
July 24th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Do you want a RB on the field that scores 1 rushing TD every 218 attempts (Fargas) or one that scores 1 rushing TD every 28.25 attempts even with two bad toes (McFadden)?
lmao
July 24th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
Everything Kiffin ended up being stupid…
Dmac needs to learn patience and wait for his first block to spring the big ones and LoNeal will teach him that hopefully.
Bush is a workhorse RB who needs alot of touches to get the gigger gains.
Fargas is what you see. A power back in a skat backs body without the speed factor, tremendous heart and a good leader.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:34 pm
Ok pete, I had erased ALL the Shell years from memory until now, thanks
July 24th, 2009 at 12:35 pm
You know what is funny, people defended Ronald Curry in here too…until he left…same thing will happen to Fargas when he leaves.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
Anyone played NCAA football 2010 yet? My son wants me to buy it…I haven’t played that game in 5 years or so, is it still any good?
Anyone? Anyone?
July 24th, 2009 at 12:40 pm
I wonder if the QBs will be wearing wristbands this year…I’m sure Southwick has the calls memorized, but Russell could use some help. Especially if he ever tries to read the defense and audible to a play that might work (please, please).
July 24th, 2009 at 12:44 pm
Good to hear from ya COW,
Dmac & Bush May be the future….But if Fargas is needed to win now Im on Board!!! maybe its blitz pickups or lack of heart or maybe just attitude…but I say may the best man win the job and preform well!!!
July 24th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
The Fargas debate isn’t if he should start. He should only start if DMAC and Bush are hurt or tired etc…
The issue is bashing Fargas for playing on a sorry team his whole career and not looking like Marcus Allen.
The guy is the PERFECT career back-up. He sits the bench and never complains. Also unlike Bush he doesn’t need 15 carries to get going. You send him in off the bench and you know he’s going 100 mph. Fans underestimate the valueof a guy like that. Look what happened to TB when Cadillac Williams went down or what happened to Denver when their guys went down. Fargas is no #1 HB stud but don’t underestimate his value as a low cost insurance policy.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
as COW said,when Fargas gets stuffed at the line it’s his fault.when Bush and Mac get stuffed it’s the line.you can twist it any way you wish.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
Bo says -
I wonder if the QBs will be wearing wristbands this year…I’m sure Southwick has the calls memorized, but Russell could use some help. Especially if he ever tries to read the defense and audible to a play that might work (please, please).
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Can you fit pictures on the wristband?
July 24th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
I agree with that…Fargas is a nice backup…as long as Cable understands that we will be fine.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
lefty12 Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
as COW said,when Fargas gets stuffed at the line it’s his fault.when Bush and Mac get stuffed it’s the line.you can twist it any way you wish.
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The way it is: When Fargas gets stuffed at the line it is Fargas’ fault. When DMAC/Bush get stuffed at the line it is Fargas’ fault.
More important: If on occasion our O-line opens a hole and the a RB DOESN’T get stuffed, he should have the skills to not run STRAIGHT INTO A LINEBACKER.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
COW,
Couldn’t have said it better myself. I only knock the fact that you pointed out (again), he’s no #1 big play back.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Just can’t have Cable scripting the first three drives for Fargas before he gives McFadden or Bush a carry…we can’t afford to be down big before we place are starters in the game, lol.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
I don’t think you’ll see that Dakota. Even Jerry said in OTA’s DMAC was taking most of the snaps with the starters.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
I think our argument will play itself out nicely everyone once the season starts. McFadden will start, and Bush and Fargas will back him up with Bush being the grind guy when/if we have a late lead.
July 24th, 2009 at 1:02 pm
instead of worrying about Cable scripting the 1st few series of plays,we should be worried about whether or not Mac can stay healthy for more than 2 games at a time.
July 24th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
Alot of it comes down to losing. Fans of losing teams don’t like to admit they need 10 better guys to get better. Instead they fixate on 1-2 guys on the bench who would turn everything around.
Remember when getting rid of Stu was going to fix our run D? Yikes! It got worse.
“Anybody is better than half-a$$ Moss.” Yes unless it is Javon Walker!
Barry Sims? Hmmm kinda think he was better than K Harris.
Kerry Collins. Not great but better than anybody since.
That’s why when peole yell “cut Gallery” or “cut Fargas” its more frustration about losing than smart football.
July 24th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Dmac is fast and has a great vertical and nose for the endzone don’t count out just yet on goal line plays, don’t forget he can pass too.
July 24th, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Besides the minor ankle sprain in TB final game it was the turf toe that screwed his season all up. Even when Raiders trainers knew he’s only worn 1 brand of shoe his entire football career (addidas), and the Nike’s (required by NFL contract) were uncomfortable for him. No one on the Raiders staff thought to get this 4th overall draft pick custom shoes???? It took “team Mcfadden” to get him to 65-70%, then instead of sitting him for a couple more weeks to get him to 90% we played him and kept him on the field at 65% for the remainder of the year… lame.
July 24th, 2009 at 1:15 pm
That’s why when peole yell “cut Gallery” or “cut Fargas” its more frustration about losing than smart football.
Good Point!!!
Gallery to the probowl!!!
Little splash for you guys!!!!
Whats Good DOuble R your workin harder than I am today brother!!
BSJ,
More important: If on occasion our O-line opens a hole and the a RB DOESN’T get stuffed, he should have the skills to not run STRAIGHT INTO A LINEBACKER.
LMAO ture, true……
July 24th, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Whats Good DOuble R your workin harder than I am today brother!!
***
hey there OAKlifer!
yeah. the President has a little side project that the billing team is responsible for. problem is the billing team is full of old women, so the executive VP and I are in charge of cleaning out the storage unit. 25 years of files in banker boxes. piled high! every other friday we work on this summer project and i get to wear jeans. our company is going completely paperless. woohoo!
July 24th, 2009 at 1:31 pm
I gotta run. you guys have a great weekend
see ya monday – the day before players report to Alameda
whoop whoop. football season is right around the corner, boys !!!
July 24th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
you people…
the reason fargas crashes into the first linebacker he sees is because…
you cannot be a crashtest dummy if you don’t crash into something…
and this speaks to Fargas’ intelligence…
if you had the choice of crashing into a linebacker…
or crashing into a wall after running through an endzone…
well… this explains why he has so few touchdowns…
July 24th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Florida Pete Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
you people…
********************
Hey now!!!! LOL
July 24th, 2009 at 2:01 pm
Who is ” you people”?!?
July 24th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
I’m the Lion King, and I can do Anything!!
July 24th, 2009 at 2:05 pm
Jerry Mac…
Jeez man, way to be a party pooper. Just as we’re all getting fired up over the opening of training camp for OUR much needed fix of Raiders football. You have to go pee in the punch bowl, and write about the effing O-line, on a Friday no less.
In your next installment, Please write about Special Teams. Since they were the only squad that showed any improvement last year. Or, perhaps the Raiderettes.
If you write about the D-line tomorrow, that will make for a very l-o-n-g weekend, and may cause myself and others here to run up one hell of a bar bill, trying to kill the pain.
July 24th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
I think if the Oline is improved and gives JRuss a couple more seconds it will make all the difference in his accuracy and timing which will lift our already powerhouse running game to greatness and improve the Defence significantly so I think 10-6 isn’t out of the question.
July 24th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
You people…
I’m starting every post with that from now on, I like it!
July 24th, 2009 at 2:26 pm
You people (and RaiderRockstar)…
Have a good weekend! Its Foster oilcan time!
July 24th, 2009 at 2:30 pm
Damn Bo, have one for me, I still have 3 hours to go!
July 24th, 2009 at 2:30 pm
oops!
You people…
Damn Bo, have one for me, I still have 3 hours to go!
July 24th, 2009 at 2:35 pm
You people crack me up with all of your “you people” stuff. lol
July 24th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
You people…
Ah, nevermind.
July 24th, 2009 at 3:00 pm
COW…
Man, you were on FIRE earlier, always fun to read.
July 24th, 2009 at 3:56 pm
All y’all,
James Martin will be our RT. Why? Because I want him to be.
We have a new OL coach (Michalczik) who will develope him into a pro-bowler. Our last OL coach was not good at evaluating talent.
He was rated higher than Mario in the 2007 draft.
Al Davis snagged him off the Cowboys practice squad and got him for nothing.
I have spoken. (Yes, I have been drinking.)
July 24th, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Jamarcus needs to get rid of the ball faster , make his reads find a receiver or take off if a lane is open. That was part of his problem last year, that and no receivers and KH trying to block. This year better be an improvement on the line and getting rid of the ball or it will be more of the same.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
You people…
What?
July 24th, 2009 at 4:17 pm
actually Harris’ problem was more with penalties,but that is nit-picking because no matter what the problem,he was horrible.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:19 pm
Roll out, look deep, if it’s not there, run like a fullback. Bettis with an arm!
July 24th, 2009 at 4:23 pm
lefty12 Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 1:02 pm
instead of worrying about Cable scripting the 1st few series of plays,we should be worried about whether or not Mac can stay healthy for more than 2 games at a time.
—————————————-
Why worry about things you can not change?
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:24 pm
Raider O Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
I’m the Lion King, and I can do Anything!!
——————————————-
I am the EGG MAN… GOOO GOOO GAACHOOO
July 24th, 2009 at 4:28 pm
worrying about something sports related isn’t the same as worrying about,say,losing ones job.it is more of a figure of speech.actually the correct way to put is we should be concerned about whether or not he can stay healthy for more than 2 games at a time.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:28 pm
You people…
July 24th, 2009 at 4:30 pm
James Marten OT 6′8 315 Boston College 5.08
By: Robert Davis
Marten played in every game as a freshman, but made only one start on the year, at right tackle. He spent his sophomore year as the starter at left guard, then moved to left tackle as a junior and senior. Marten earned All ACC 2nd team honors as a senior.
Being a BC lineman, you know Marten has the toughness and intangibles on his size. He has a non stop motor and never backs down from an opponent. He also knows how to open holes in the running game, and finish off blocks. He has the ideal tackle frame, very long and lean, with room to add more bulk. Marten has also shown a great deal of versatility, playing both tackle spots and starting at guard during his college career.
Marten may only project to right tackle at the next level. He is too long and lean to play inside at guard. He cannot get any leverage on guards that are four or five inches shorter. As a tackle, he lacks the ideal athleticism to play on the left side. On the right side, he’s going to have to get stronger to remain a factor as a run blocker.
Boston College has an excellent tradition of producing offensive lineman, and Marten is just another one added to the list. He is not a premier prospect, but he has the ability to play at the next level.
——————————————————————————–
July 24th, 2009 at 4:35 pm
you people…
I can’t wait to get outta this place. I need a beer and a blunt.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:35 pm
lefty12 Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 4:17 pm
actually Harris’ problem was more with penalties,but that is nit-picking because no matter what the problem,he was horrible.
==================
Penalties and whiffs. Man he got toasted week in, week out. Between him and Hall, they cost us several wins.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:40 pm
Nnamdi,a lot of his whiffs were because he got off the ball late due to the fact he was getting so many false starts.but as i said,it is nit-picking,he was horrible no matter how you look at it.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:40 pm
You people…
I always thought Kwame looked a little DS.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:41 pm
DS-?
July 24th, 2009 at 4:42 pm
New Free Agency Winners and Losers
Who am I?
Guess who DE 6′5 269 Georgia 4.62
By: Robert Davis
Guess who, toyed with the idea of being a two sport athlete originally. After spending time with the basketball team as a freshman, he realized his future was on the gridiron. As a redshirt freshman in 2003, ???? racked up 37 tackles, 4.5 for loss, and 5.5 sacks, earning All SEC Freshman honors. He became more of a playmaker as a sophomore, going for 7.5 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks, to go along with 23 tackles. As many players do, ????????broke out as a junior. He posted career highs with 44 tackles, 20.5 for loss, and 11.5 sacks. His numbers dipped this year, as he had just 4.5 sacks to go along with 31 tackles, 10.5 of them coming for loss.
Pound for pound, ?????is one of the elite athletes in the draft. He has fantastic agility, quickness, and speed on the football field. He has the athletic talent to be a true standout off the edge in the NFL. He is not just an athlete though. He has a great burst off the snap, and once he gets a step on the tackle, is in the backfield to bring down the ball carrier. ????? shows the ability to get after the passer, but has the awareness to see the run play and get to the back.
As with most ‘tweeners,’ ???? lacks the bulk to be effective in running situations. He can be driven off the ball because of his long and lanky frame. He will need to bulk up to be more of an all around threat, and to be on the field as much as possible. He also needs to play with more passion, as he seems to wander at times during the game.
?????entered the year neck and neck with Gaines Adams, but he slid a bit this year. Adams appears to be the top end on most boards now, and ??? is considered a second or third round talent. His poor season, and less than stellar workouts have pushed him down the boards. He still shows the athleticism and quickness on the field to develop, he’s just more of a project than most thought entering the year.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:42 pm
Thanks for the scouting report DirtyRaccoon.
Not quite as glowing as I would have liked. Maybe it will look better after another drink.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:42 pm
DS
Down Syndrome
July 24th, 2009 at 4:43 pm
AZ Raider Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 4:35 pm
you people…
I can’t wait to get outta this place. I need a beer and a blunt.
*******
Yep!
July 24th, 2009 at 4:44 pm
Twocents,
JM looked like the higest rated RT in that draft.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:47 pm
James Marten OT 6′8 335 Boston College 4.44
By: Robert Davis
Marten played in every game as a freshman, but made only one start on the year, at right tackle. He spent his sophomore year as the starter at left guard, then moved to left tackle as a junior and senior. Marten earned All ACC 2nd team honors as a senior.
Being a BC lineman, you know Marten has the toughness and intangibles on his size. He has a non stop motor and never backs down from an opponent. He also knows how to open holes in the running game, and finish off blocks. He has the ideal tackle frame, very long and lean, with room to add more bulk. Marten has also shown a great deal of versatility, playing both tackle spots and starting at guard during his college career.
Marten may only project to right tackle at the next level. He is too long and lean to play inside at guard. He cannot get any leverage on guards that are four or five inches shorter. As a tackle, he lacks the ideal athleticism to play on the left side. On the right side, he’s going to have to get stronger to remain a factor as a run blocker.
Boston College has an excellent tradition of producing offensive lineman, and Marten is just another one added to the list. He is a premier prospect, he has the ability to be the BEST RT in the NFL.
——————————————————————————–
July 24th, 2009 at 4:47 pm
AZ-possible,after all he went to Stanford.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:47 pm
There, I put a little spin on it.
July 24th, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Who am I?
Guess who DE 6′5 269 Georgia 4.62
By: Robert Davis
Guess who, toyed with the idea of being a two sport athlete originally. After spending time with the basketball team as a freshman, he realized his future was on the gridiron. As a redshirt freshman in 2003, ???? racked up 37 tackles, 4.5 for loss, and 5.5 sacks, earning All SEC Freshman honors. He became more of a playmaker as a sophomore, going for 7.5 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks, to go along with 23 tackles. As many players do, ????????broke out as a junior. He posted career highs with 44 tackles, 20.5 for loss, and 11.5 sacks. His numbers dipped this year, as he had just 4.5 sacks to go along with 31 tackles, 10.5 of them coming for loss.
Pound for pound, ?????is one of the elite athletes in the draft. He has fantastic agility, quickness, and speed on the football field. He has the athletic talent to be a true standout off the edge in the NFL. He is not just an athlete though. He has a great burst off the snap, and once he gets a step on the tackle, is in the backfield to bring down the ball carrier. ????? shows the ability to get after the passer, but has the awareness to see the run play and get to the back.
As with most ‘tweeners,’ ???? lacks the bulk to be effective in running situations. He can be driven off the ball because of his long and lanky frame. He will need to bulk up to be more of an all around threat, and to be on the field as much as possible. He also needs to play with more passion, as he seems to wander at times during the game.
?????entered the year neck and neck with Gaines Adams, but he slid a bit this year. Adams appears to be the top end on most boards now, and ??? is considered a second or third round talent. His poor season, and less than stellar workouts have pushed him down the boards. He still shows the athleticism and quickness on the field to develop, he’s just more of a project than most thought entering the year.
Who am I?
July 24th, 2009 at 5:02 pm
I give up. Can I buy a vowel?
July 24th, 2009 at 5:06 pm
QM
July 24th, 2009 at 5:06 pm
Q. Mosses
Sure looks good on paper.
July 24th, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Dammit, that was my first guess but I couldn’t remember where he went to college.
July 24th, 2009 at 5:17 pm
The Raiders blew a draft pick? Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
July 24th, 2009 at 6:48 pm
The Raiders drafted a tweener DE that didn’t pan out? No way! They NEVER draft tweeners that flop, never.
July 24th, 2009 at 7:33 pm
Michael Johnson Georgia Tech
July 24th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
okay, people, listen up…
all you people who used the phrase “you people” owe me 10 cents for each time you used it…
copyrighted material and all…
never mind the details…
just send the money to:
Florida Pete
Florida, USA
don’t worry, it’ll get to me…
July 24th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
how do you go wrong with a guy named Quentin stinking Moses ???
you got the bible thing…
you got the prison thing…
sounded good to me…
July 24th, 2009 at 7:58 pm
Danny Southwick is so good that all thirty two NFL teams passed him over in the draft. Is Danny Southwick going to be the savior of the Raiders? Who that is a Raider fan would say we are going to the playoffs if Danny Southwick was our Quarterback? Who around the league has made that statement? Any Coaches or players, or the media perhaps? Has Danny Southwick even muttered those words?No, he is just happy to be on a NFL roster. The facts are that the Raiders have had a lot of holes over the last six years. I would point out the O-line,Receivers and the D-line,Safeties have been the key weak positions on each side of the ball. Luckily, this year we have retained our team. A young and talented team. We retained our coach and kept the same system in place. We added a few key veterans on either side of the ball. Believe it or not Jamarcus Russell will have a good year. Maybe it is hard for some people to grasp how well he has played since joining the Raiders. In his first start in the NFL against Jay Cutler a Pro Bowl Quarterback, he not only won the game 34-20 but he also had impressive stats going 23/31 224 yards 1Td/1int. All this having the worst O-line in the game. We all know that our O-line is the problem mixed with a group of unproven receivers. And our D-line is the problem mixed with a group of unproven Safeties. Hopefully our team the Oakland Raiders can put it together on the lines where the games are won and get us some victories. We have all the talent we just need to get TOUGH!!!!!!!!!! and NASTY!!!!!!! again. That is what’s missing!
July 24th, 2009 at 9:16 pm
[...] Read more. [...]
July 24th, 2009 at 9:38 pm
First off, I like Mario Henderson and think he can be a quality starter for us for years to come. That being said, the LT position’s main responsibility is protecting the quarterback’s blind-side. So while Henderson may be a superior run-blocker than Khalif Barnes, Barnes is considered to be the superior pass-blocker and should be given the nod at LT whilst Henderson takes over at RT.
July 24th, 2009 at 10:10 pm
RaiderMario420 Says:
July 24th, 2009 at 9:38 pm
First off, I like Mario Henderson and think he can be a quality starter for us for years to come. That being said, the LT position’s main responsibility is protecting the quarterback’s blind-side. So while Henderson may be a superior run-blocker than Khalif Barnes, Barnes is considered to be the superior pass-blocker and should be given the nod at LT whilst Henderson takes over at RT.
================================
Actually Henderson is NOT a superior or even good run blocker. Gets too high in his pads and doesn’t play with enough balance.
He does however excel in protection with a decent kick slide, solid fundamentals, good hand placement and understanding of the position.
The knock on Barnes is his lack of feet and the fact he gets beat by the occasional inside move.
HE is considered the better blocker sealing off running lanes. Good jolt and quick off the snap.
July 24th, 2009 at 11:57 pm
I am the Walrus goo goo cjoob!
July 25th, 2009 at 4:08 am
Projected starters: LT Mario Henderson, LG Robert Gallery, C Samson Satele, RG Cooper Carlisle, RT Khalif Barnes
————————————————————-
**LT Mario Henderson: He’s been getting wildly overhyped since taking over for Kwame Harris. It’s amazing how good “below average” looks when it takes the place of “god awful.”
Henderson has nonexistent run blocking ability and a highly dubious work ethic. Yes, he held Mario Williams without a sack, but he also got his arse handed to him when we tried to run. If NFL Network shows the replay of Williams blowing by Henderson untouched and making the stop on a run going away from him, I may become incontinent.
Sadly, I expect a major disappointment here. I believe that anyone expecting Henderson to play 16 games like an NFL caliber LT is going to be covering their faces in shame before the bye.
**LG Robert Gallery: In my opinion, the only player on the 2008 O-line who could start and play well anywhere in the league. Apparently, someone thinks Jake “Hurty” Grove falls into that category. I guess we’ll see soon enough.
**C Samson Satele: Miami shipped him off in favor of Jake Grove. That concerns me. Nevertheless, he has the mobility to be effective on the move in this scheme. Question is, can he do any better against Jamal Williams than he did against Kris Jenkins or Vince Wilfork? Our inside running game in week 1 will depend on it. Should be no concern for Darren McFadden fans. He can’t run inside anyway.
**RG Cooper Carlisle: His ‘08 falloff is well documented, yet Al gives him a multiyear contract as if he thought CC can wake up young again in 2009 as easily as he woke up old last season. Here’s to hoping my guy Paul McQuistan can handle zone blocking better than he’s given credit for, or that Marcus Johnson left his propensity for poor play in Minnesota.
**RT Khalif Barnes: This guy was a quality LT for a few years, or at least he looked like one at a glance. But after losing his inside help to injury, his game completely fell off. Still a steady run blocker, his inability to stop (or, on some occasions, slow down) opposing pass rushers is one of the primary reasons some talking heads are pointing at David Garrard as a QB on the hotseat.
Personally, I think Garrard is a very good QB who spent most of 2008 running for dear life.
Now, in hopes of allowing JaMarcus Russell to stand in the pocket unmolested, we bring in a new turnstile. Suffice to say that Garrard won’t miss him. One can only hope that a move to the strong side and a new scheme will help Barnes regain his old form. But, one could rightfully fear that those two very significant changes could just as easily make the 2009 season an even more disastrous event for the formerly steady tackle.
By season’s end, I expect Henderson will be banished to the bench with either Barnes or Pears getting a shot at LT, if not both.
Poor JaMarcus. No wonder he doesn’t put in the effort to be a good QB. He knows he’s going to get beaten to a pulp every Sunday no matter what he does.
July 25th, 2009 at 6:24 am
raider nation is vewwy vewwy quiet…
shhhh…
July 25th, 2009 at 6:25 am
Morning All,
From TMZ:
Feds: Francis Paid Off Guards with Raider Tix
Posted Jul 25th 2009 12:40AM by TMZ Staff
Federal agents believe there’s a reason Girls Gone Wild kingpin Joe Francis had such a wonderful time during his 2007 jail stint in Reno — they claim he bought off his jailers with gifts, including tickets to see the Oakland Raiders!
Three former Washoe County jail employees were arrested for allegedly taking all sorts of lavish gifts from the porn king in exchange for jail favors — like unrestricted phone use, the ability to sneak in food and protection from disciplinary action.
According to the feds, Aaron Weinstein, one of Joe’s GGW producers played the role of delivery man — allegedly dropping off a slew of gifts to the jail employees, including a $4500 Cartier watch, a $5000 gift card to Sax Fifth Avenue, $3,200 in cash, a big screen TV, a home entertainment system, airline tickets, and, of course, tickets to see the Oakland Raiders lose.
Weinstein was also arrested and charged with paying off a public official. If convicted, he faces up to 2 years in prison and serious cash fines.
July 25th, 2009 at 6:28 am
Crow, excellent analysis.
We must hope that a few of the following happen:
1) Henderson continues to remain solid in pass-protection but starts to make a contribution to the running game.
2) Barnes fall-off last season was temporary and he rediscovers his excellent rookie form.
3) James Marten starts to show why the Cowboys were so disappointed to lose him.
4) Johnson fits well at RG and adds more muscle and power than Carlisle can offer.
I agree with Jerry about the likely starters. I just think we might end up with a line that looks like:
LT: Barnes
LG: Gallery
C: Satele
RG: Johnson
RT: Marten
July 25th, 2009 at 7:23 am
The Oline will obviously be key to JRs development. The Ts are an upgrade (at least at 1st glance, we’ll see on the field). If Mario does indeed turn out to be “Super” – JR will be one step closer to absolute dominance.
Giving any QB in the NFL enough time to dissect plays is paramount to treason – even more so if that QB has the perceived talent/ability that Russell possess.
Give Russell enough time and it’ll be Star Wars all over the field – freakin’ intercontinental missiles being launched all over stadium. With the speed at wideout – the key to it all is the Ts.
July 25th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
The line on both sides is suspect at best.
Hopefully Lorenzo will help with pass protection.
We need to use less Fargas and more Bush/McFadden.
And the most obvious…it’s time to start drafting along the line,so many high picks the last few years and nothing to show for it on either side of the line.
July 27th, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Dear Jamarcus Russell,
In a year where all the TV analysts are saying this is your make or break season I disagree. Typically the rule is 3 years before the “bust” tag can be applied and your first year didn’t count because of the hold-out. That contract is done, feed and house your family well and give us fan-family what we deserve; A Super Bowl!! Not this year, no pressure but in time? Yes, I believe in you.
So as a big fan of yours and an active member of the Raider Nation I have to ask you: ARE YOU READY? Are you ready to quiet the critics? Are you ready to handle the media? And most important are you ready to be the LEADER of the Oakland Raiders for the next 15 seasons? In the huddle, in the locker room, off and on the field, down by 7 with 1:32 in the 4th? ARE YOU READY?
Your skill is a gift, a god-given gift that was given to you for the purpose of winning and entertaining. And you ARE a RAIDER, so let’s do this huh? I don’t know yet if they gave you that right tools to be a true passer with DHB. Khalif Barnes etc..but only time will tell. And Garcia? They just put him there to light your fire. That’s all. You are the starter for now, but listen to Jeff because he has been around the block a few times seeing that he is 39 years old and all. But also know this, you are 24 years old right? You have your whole life ahead of you, don’t you want to go to the hall of fame some day? I think it’s possible but you need to apply yourself as a leader NOW! That’s where it starts.
While critics say what they say about you, they rarely mention the positive. Never have a seen you blame your WR’s or your O-line men, or slag off your team mates in the media (think Ryan Leaf), You seem to be accountable on the field. Never mind the big arm, that’s just something you already have. You were born to do this.
This season understand this; our defense against ranks worst against the run, and this will not allow you much time to even be on the field as teams will again know to simply eat up the clock on the Raiders by running the ball over and over. This was not addressed in the off season. The schedule is also VERY difficult. This means that 2-6 by mid-season is very possible. But it won’t be your fault necessarily , the organization is to blame for not putting the right people in place. Garcia will come in, he’ll win a couple games and the analysts will go crazy. Warren Sapp will be beaming with arrogance (even though he praised you a few months ago, what’s wrong with that dude?), and people will say “I told you so” BUT they will be wrong. I know there is greatness in you, I know you are pro-bowl material, and I know you can take US to the Super Bowl.
So go into this season as the leader of the Oakland Raiders, hold your head up high, get the team to play for you and gather around you and respect you as a LEADER!!
-A true fan
July 31st, 2009 at 8:28 am
Just wondering why yall say James Marten came from the Cowboys practice squad? He has never been there practice squad and is way over talented to ever be on anyones practice squad.
July 31st, 2009 at 12:53 pm
Agreed on James Marten; he is a big, agile and smart lineman which the Raiders could very much use. Not that draft pick rank means everything, but he was a top of the third round pick and has the legacy of BC linemen. Perhaps the Raiders will evaluate talent based on performance and potential, not whatever system they are using now.
August 14th, 2009 at 9:44 pm
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