Position group analysis: Defensive backs
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Thursday, March 4th, 2010 at 12:14 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Eighth in a series analyzing Raiders position groups as free agency begins (on the West Coast, anyway) tonight at 9 p.m.
Starters: CB Nnamdi Asomugha, CB Chris Johnson, SS Tyvon Branch, FS Michael Huff. Backups: CB Stanford Routt, S Mike Mitchell, S Hiram Eugene, CB Jonathan Holland, S Jerome Boyd.
Review: The Raiders were eighth in passing yardage surrendered, but part of that was because opponents were busy attacking the 29th-ranked run defense. Opposing passers compiled an 89.5 passer rating and the Raiders intercepted only eight passes. Huff had the best season of his career, Asomugha was avoided as much as possible and Johnson held up about as well as could be expected considering Asomugha was on the opposite side.
Branch, in his second year out of Connecticut, was second to Kirk Morrison in tackles with 124 _ more than any safety in the league. Depth was a problem. Routt had no interceptions, Eugene was overtaken by Huff and Holland and Boyd are projects changing positions, Holland from wide receiver, Boyd from college linebackers.
Contract status: Routt was issued the NFL’s most eye-opening tender, a first- and third-round designation that brings with it a salary of more than $3.2 million. Eugene received a second-round tender, his agent confirms. Everyone else is under contract.
What’s next: Do the Raiders have something up their sleeve with either Asomugha or Johnson in terms of a trade? Or is the mind-blowing tender to Routt simply another example of Davis seeing far more in a physical package than has manifested itself on the football field? It’s true Asomugha had a few rough years before he blossomed, but Routt has given little or no indication he is capable of doing the same.
Huff is due a $5.75 million salary that puts him with the elite at his position, and although he played much better, it’s a stretch to consider him Pro Bowl material. But at the NFL scouting combine, Cable went out of his way to say Huff had “arrived,” making it sound as if his salary is not an issue. It’s a big year for Mitchell, who showed promise toward the end of last season although Cable’s combine assertion that the second-round pick was “sensational” was a bit over the top.
It will be interesting to see what Mitchell can do if he keeps his hamstrings loose, gets in the kind of shape he wants and hits the ground running and hitting in July. Branch had some issues with angles and missed a tackle or three, but made more than his share and is the best looking young safety the Raiders have had in years _ very good for a second-year player they got in the fourth round.
Holland was on the roster primarily to return kickoffs, and the Raiders will look to replace him that area. That means he’ll have to make great strides as a defensive back to stick. Boyd will have had a full professional year under his belt as a safety, but the Raiders are more crowded at that position than they’ve ever been assuming Huff, Branch, Mitchell and Eugene are all still around.
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March 4th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
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March 4th, 2010 at 12:20 pm
# KoolKell Says:
March 4th, 2010 at 12:12 pm
Richochet doesn’t believe my story, Check. Anything else?
==============
NO BODY BELIEVES YOUR STORY…see, clown, you commented to MOST HERE that MOST HERE are below you, that they ALL HAVE NOT DONE ANYWHERE CLOSE TO THE THINGS IN LIFE YOU’VE DONE.
Those are YOUR words.
I simply proved you’re a lying ass dog.
As YOUR PROOF, you requested posters to go READ YOUR WEB SITE (not YOURS, it’s the brokers web site) where you posted that drivel..that is sad in and of itself.
You sprouted off, acting all that, and I called you on it..like so many others did.
I’ll say it again…you’re a loser.
NO ONE WHO’S NOT A LOSER WOULD POST THAT IGNORANT CRAP..and certainly NEVER on a site that his prospective clients might read…that’s just plain unprofessional, and stupid, to boot.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:21 pm
Richochet
You presume to know a lot about my business, are you in business?
March 4th, 2010 at 12:23 pm
Richochet
You haven’t proved a damned thing. The only thing you’ve done is make a lot of ugly charges.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:24 pm
But Richochet, I must admit the venom in you is startling. My gawd man.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:30 pm
# Senior Beeecham Says:
March 4th, 2010 at 11:57 am
Oh and I’m still waiting – but not expecting – you to someday use your little brain to think up a football topic you’d like to be schooled in.
But after giving you 3 – count ‘em 3! – chances to come up with something, you were so paralyzed by fear you decided to hide in your cubicle. Poor little poodle … Must’ve been scary, huh?!
=======================
Ah…the “feigning ignorance/confusion” reply.
The offer was for YOU to broach a topic..so hey..no problem.
Al…:) let’s discuss Al for starters, peanut.
I think it’s scandalous on what Al did to the fans both when he came back to Alameda, on the signing day, as well as everything he did in 2002, both during Super bowl week, and following it.
How do you view all of what happened?
Oh..then we can discuss how Al drove off John Madden, and how their final year together went, including how the players felt about it.
Oh..and what the hell..Al and the brigade of head coaches.
What do you feel about all of Al’s butting in, what he’s done during practices, the over ruling calls he’s made to the different coaches?
We’ll just start with that, peanut.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
I’ll help ya a little beech…
some players felt Al really screwed over Madden…
any idea what I’m talking about?
Oh..and some things happened during the SB week that really…really PO’ed a lot of people…both during and after…any idea what I’m talking about?
head coaches? anything? hell…that’s easy stuff for ya..even your pathetic googling ass can find something on that…right, peanut?
March 4th, 2010 at 12:38 pm
Maybe mine it the minority opinion, but I’m very happy to see Routt stick around. I thought he played well last season. I think the Raiders ask a lot of their secondary, so naturally he was beaten on occasion, but I thought he was a luxury to have as an extra DB. And he might become and elite corner if he comes on the way Huff did this season. Davis has drafted the hell out of DBs of course, but I think the Raiders have the makings of a top-notch secondary this season. Now if they can just stop the run and get some pressure on QBs.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:39 pm
Richochet Says:
March 4th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
Oh..and some things happened during the SB week that really…really PO’ed a lot of people…both during and after…any idea what I’m talking about?
===========================================
Rico
Enlighten me, I want to know what you are talking about. I don’t claim to know every behind the scenes story and what not and I am very interested…
March 4th, 2010 at 12:42 pm
Did Dakota’s wife have the kid already?
***
Dogg: yes, a boy (I think)
March 4th, 2010 at 12:46 pm
It would not hurt to see Warren and Fargas cut. Both of them are easily replaceable. Fargas getting released would open up the door for Bush and McFadden but don’t be surprised if the Raiders went shopping for another back as well. The Defensive Line without changes could reshape itself like this…
LDE – Shaughnessy
LDT – Kelly
RDT – Seymour
RDE – Ellis
March 4th, 2010 at 12:47 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
March 4th, 2010 at 12:42 pm
Did Dakota’s wife have the kid already?
***
Dogg: yes, a boy (I think)
====================================
Sweet. Do me a favor and let him know that I said congratulations. I am not on here much any more and when I am he isn’t around. I appreciate it.
Sh1t, I guess I could just send him an e-mail…
March 4th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
Laveranues Coles (WR) is available and would be a nice addition.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:49 pm
You here, Mistabrown? Another Republican politician bit the dust and got outed. Ashburn? DUI after leaving a gay bar. Ouch. Well, I guess not the “ouch” he was going to feel had he made it home with the “unidentified male” in the passenger seat.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:49 pm
Steve claims Kell was in the Civil War?
ouch. LOL
March 4th, 2010 at 12:51 pm
Richochet, what happened between Madden and Davis?
March 4th, 2010 at 12:52 pm
NYJ did not tender DT Howard Green.
get him in here for depth & competition. he’ll replace William Joseph …
Kelly, Bryant, Green and the real NT we’re going to draft! booyah!
March 4th, 2010 at 12:53 pm
RRs, I don’t CLAIM anything. The dental records still exist and Kell’s wooden teeth are a PERFECT match for those of an unidentified infantryman.
March 4th, 2010 at 12:54 pm
LOL @ Steve!
March 4th, 2010 at 12:56 pm
here it is again, so my little poodle doesn’t hurt his paws with all of his frantic reposting and cut and pasting -
Wow, little Poodle, I’m impressed! You actually copped to failing to bring up any sort of topic in 3 attempts!
That shows growth, little dude, something that does score points in your attempts to become my full time minion apprentice!
First of all, just accept Al doesn’t consider the opinions of his fans in any of his business moves. So you’re wasting precious poodle energy getting worked up over him moving the team to whatever locale offers him the most attractive package. And he’ll stomp over anyone (except usually players) to get it.
You ever heard of Idi Amin? Dictatorship has its price and the fans pay to live in Al’s kingdom. Don’t spend your days getting worked up about his injustice, it’ll just turn you into a bigger, wackier basket case.
I’m not sure what you’re interested in learning about the coaching cavalcade that you should already know. No sane person could rationally explain how rapid turnover leads to team stability.
Personally, I was hoping the Kiffin experiment would work out, mainly because the possibility of Monte installing a modern defensive scheme and Kiffin’s keen eye for college talent.
Anyway, his meddling is mostly, if not all, to blame for the chaotic state of his team, its loss of financial value and league wide respect, not to mention his only way to buy free agents is by massive overspending.
Hope that helps and gives you something to think about. Maybe next time we can discuss your favorite Raider merchandise purchases through the ages!
March 4th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
Osgood says Chargers are dumping Jamal Williams
Posted by Mike Florio on March 4, 2010 3:48 PM ET
Though Chargers special-teams standout Kassim Osgood has yet to launch his own OCNN-style Twitter journalism operation, the soon-to-be free agent has declared that the Chargers have cut nose tackle Jamal Williams.
Osgood claims in a tweet that Williams, who was placed on injured reserve after only one game last season, is “officially gone.” In a later message, Osgood insists it’s true and points out that players share information with each other.
As to his own situation, Osgood seems to be as intent as ever to leave, saying that a three-percent chance to play receiver in Siberia “is still a chance,” and that he has zero chance to play wideout with the Chargers, “and that is what they TOLD me.”
So while plenty of guys who are eligible for restricted free agency are staying in San Diego, Osgood clearly isn’t — and Williams has been tossed out the door, too. If Osgood is accurate.
—————————————
Anyone interested in this cat?
March 4th, 2010 at 12:58 pm
Taylor Mays’ 40 time has become a big deal. If he actually runs a 4.2 (something) then Al Davis must be licking his chops. Maybe Al Davis trades Asomugha for a 1st round pick and gets Mays with either of the draft picks. Then he’ll move either Branch or Huff to corner and start Mays and Mitchell at the safety positions and keep Routt at the nickelback spot. I don’t know, his options are endless I suppose.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:00 pm
Alright, Raiders fans… I’m leaving work for a bit. Try to keep the coups bloodless.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:00 pm
Dogg: i’ll take Jamal Williams & Kassim Osgood !!!
goodbye Warren. goodbye Watkins.
in other news … hello Boldin. goodbye Walker
March 4th, 2010 at 1:02 pm
RaiderDogg – I would absolutely pickup Jamal Williams. We could really use a true Nose Tackle to help clog up the middle. We could have…
LDE – Shaughnessy/Ellis
LDT – Kelly
RDT – Jamal Williams
RDE – Seymour/Scott
You’d think our run defense would improve greatly…you’d think anyways.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:02 pm
RR
I was talking about Williams but, now that you mention it, I would be cool with Osgood too. Good call.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:02 pm
24
yes in theory
March 4th, 2010 at 1:04 pm
Jamal Williams turns 34 years old next month, but I think he’s still got another 2 years left in the tank.
He had a triceps injury last year. At least it wasn’t a knee!
at 6′3″ 348 lbs this dude is a beast
go get him grandpa al !!!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:04 pm
Al Davis…spend that last little bit of money you have. Lets create a fantasy team. Lets win today. Sign Jamal Williams, trade a 3rd rounder for Boldin, sign anybody and everybody that looks better than a current start. Spend, spend, spend and lets go out there and overachieve by winning 6 games. COME ON!!!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:04 pm
I’m out for the day
Everyone have an excellent day and I will see you all on Saturday!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:06 pm
Lets freakin see if its possible to keep a Head Coach for longer than 3 years. PROVE IT!!!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:07 pm
I would be cool with Osgood too. Good call.
***
seems like a typical Al Davis move, doesn’t it?
Osgood was undrafted, comes from a division rival he was unhappy with.
6′5″ 220 lbs with blazing speed
3-time Pro Bowl ST player
March 4th, 2010 at 1:10 pm
Al Davis has a soft spot for the special people.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:15 pm
Does anyone know if Richochet explained what happened between Madden and Davis on another thread? I want to read it. Sounds interesting.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
SAN DIEGO (AP) The agent for Darren Sproles says the speedy little running back is staying with the San Diego Chargers.
Gary Wichard says the Chargers notified him Thursday that they have decided to tender the restricted free agent a contract, which will be worth approximately $7.3 million. Another team would have to give the Chargers first- and third-round draft picks if they signed Sproles.
The move comes six days after a source familiar with the situation said the Chargers had decided to allow Sproles to test free agency.
Wichard says the tender will allow the two sides to continue talking about a long-term deal. The agent also says the Chargers realized there was “tremendous” interest in Sproles around the league.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:18 pm
Huffs salary does not put him with the elite safetys in the NFL in terms of wages. Rolle the AZ safety is looking for 7 million to sign and they say he may get it.
Huff has really come along this past year and if he can build on last year looks like a keeper. Branch which is a much better young safety than all but the people in the NFL are aware. Murphy after injury came on strong over the last 4 or 5 games being used in all the packages.
As for Routt not showing he can do what Nnamdi did, the same thing could be said about Nnamdi before he did it. In todays NFL your third corner is a starter and they better have speed or you will be eat alive by the many teams that like to spread you out. You can never have enough corners and I expect the Raiders to take a corner at some point in this years draft.
One last point, only the Raiders know what or what may have been offered for Routt in a trade. Many were stunned when the Ravens gave up a high draft pick for Washington that they used as a starter. The Raiders thought more of Routt in keeping him over Washington.
No team in the History of the NFL has drafted, developed or fleeced another club out of more Hall of Fame or future Hall of Fame Corners than the Raiders and Al Davis. Most clubs in the NFL have never had 1 HOF corner let alone have them by the bunch.
Nnamdi drafted and turned from safety to corner, future HOF? Lester Hayes drafted and turned from safety to corner, future HOF. Mike Haynes robbed from New England, HOF, Willie Brown robbed from Denver, HOF. Charles Woodson drafted, Jack Tatum drafted future HOF.
There are others I left out that were also very good. My point is that I will look to Al Davis and the Raiders to make the choice on corners over many no nothing fans and media bloggers any day of the week.
Last ask Denver how important speed is in a good NFL corner. They gave away a 1st round pick to take a corner that had great coverage skill in College but was slow with little speed. He was a bust last year and a liability in coverage, when it comes to corners no team has done it better or more often than Al Davis and the Raiders.
And that is documented fact.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:19 pm
I’d take Laveranues Coles on a cheap 1 year deal.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:20 pm
kidseven Says:
March 4th, 2010 at 12:38 pm
Maybe mine it the minority opinion, but I’m very happy to see Routt stick around. I thought he played well last season….
============================
It is.
He didn’t.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:23 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
March 4th, 2010 at 1:19 pm
I’d take Laveranues Coles on a cheap 1 year deal.
=========================
The ex loves Seattle so I’ve seen just about very game the last few years and Nate Burleson, except when injured, has really kicked azz.
Plays with intent and authority.
IF we snag a FA WR.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:26 pm
Rotoworld:
“The Ravens have extended a low (original pick) tender to restricted free agent QB Troy Smith.
Smith could probably give a number of weak starting QBs a serious run in training camp, and should intrigue teams because the compensation level to sign him is only a fifth-round pick. Clearly, Baltimore isn’t committed to him as a long-term backup. The Ravens may use a mid- to late-round pick on a QB.”
—————————————
New Raiders OC Hue Jackson was Ravens QBs Coach las season. I wouldnt be surprised to see us trading for him.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
Ufk U up the ar-se EA sports. Madden sucks anyway…
EA Sports to jack up its customers.
http://videogames.yahoo.com/events/plugged-in/ea-sports-going-digital-to-make-more-off-madden/1391526
March 4th, 2010 at 1:29 pm
only the Raiders know what or what may have been offered for Routt in a trade. Many were stunned when the Ravens gave up a high draft pick for Washington that they used as a starter. The Raiders thought more of Routt in keeping him over Washington.
***
the Raiders only got a 4th rounder for Fabian Washington. Former 1st rounder with 3 years NFL experience. He was 23 years old at the time of that trade and the Ravens just put a 1st round tender on him yesterday
Routt was a 2nd rounder in 2005 (same draft). now has 5 years NFL experience and a reputation for being nothing more than a toasted nickel back. The Raiders thought so much of him that they gave up a 2nd rounder for DeAngelo Hall and handed him a $70 million contract. then after Hall was released Chris Johnson (not Routt) took over. then they gave CJ a 4 year deal with starter money last offseason!
yeah. i’m sure teams are banging down the door to get a track star with zero cover skills for a 1st & 3rd. LOL
March 4th, 2010 at 1:29 pm
BTW, Ricopet, while you’re paralyzed, shivering under your desk too afraid to type, I came up with something that just maybe will calm you down –
I, your Master Beeecham, leave an open offer for you to send your kids into the blog for some of my personal teaching lessons next time there’s something you’re unable to explain to them.
I always enjoy the satisfaction of training my future minions at a young age!
And Krappy – any word on the East Bay Sick show? Old tool, I know you aren’t seriously considering getting yourself injured this weekend!
Hell Yeah!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:32 pm
El Taco, Troy Smith is going to be a really good starter where ever he ends up. I pray Oakland will take him, but doubt it.
The kids a winner. May not have the rocket arm or be tall as Russell, but he’s a leader of men and hard worker who can play ball.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:32 pm
El Tato – I would certainly hope the Raiders give up a 5th round pick for Troy Smith.
Shoot…A 3rd round pick for Boldin and a 5th round pick for Troy Smith could realistically improve our offense.
Cut Justin Fargas and not we’re talking.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:34 pm
I meant…now we’re talking.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:35 pm
The Jets just cut Lito Sheppard. Resciend the tender on Routt and go sign Sheppard as our nickelback. Hes only 28. PLEASE!!!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:35 pm
I’d take a chance on Troy Smith for a 5th rounder. but at what cost? He’d have to sign a contract with us and then the Ravens would have the option to match or let him walk & take a 5th in return …
2 years, 2 million?
probably more than he’s making now and he’d be able to compete for a starting gig!
hard to justify paying him more than that with the 9.5 million due to Russell and 1.7 million due to Gradkowski
March 4th, 2010 at 1:37 pm
Madden (video game) sucks because the NFL signed an exclusive agreement with EA Sports. No competition. And, despite the far fetched raves I’ve heard from fans of the new Madden, I think it’s worse than last year. The graphics look more animated, with cheaper fonts. They’re cutting corners on their product, they’re going to charge more for it, and gamers who want a fresh new NFL game every year are stuck with it because they have no competition.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:38 pm
24 Says:
March 4th, 2010 at 1:10 pm
Al Davis has a soft spot for the special people.
yup thats how we got the retard russell
March 4th, 2010 at 1:38 pm
RaiderRockstar – After watching the QB play of the Raiders over the last few years. I’m willing to do whatever is necessary to ensure we have a quality starting QB next year.
Sign Carr, trade for Bulger, give a 5th for Smith. I don’t freakin care anymore. Bring in a 50 year old Favre. Just Win Baby!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:38 pm
MR
Have you read this yet?
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ynews/ynews_ts1217
March 4th, 2010 at 1:39 pm
The Jets just cut Lito Sheppard. Resciend the tender on Routt and go sign Sheppard as our nickelback. Hes only 28.
***
Yes! former 1st rounder & 2-time Pro Bowler
problem is he was traded to the Jets from Philly. this is his first time hitting the market and he probably wants to cash in. instantly becomes one of the Top 3 CB’s in free agency
March 4th, 2010 at 1:39 pm
This was the year I gave up on Madden football. Its just not worth it anymore. I’ve been enjoying playing NHL 09 lately.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:39 pm
dont you ever disrespect madden the video game lol whats wrong with you
March 4th, 2010 at 1:41 pm
Madden video game got better and better and better, graphics wise, play wise, everything, until the exclusivity was signed with the NFL and EA Sports. Since then, they’ve cut corners. Where are their consumers going to go? They know Madden gamers are addicts and need a new, updated game every year. This year, everything was worse, except they added “gang tackling”. Oooh. I’ll take last year’s version and their one on one tackling. It’s a much better game.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:41 pm
you know what i dont like about madden 10 is they made the stats way 2 realistic and i cant win a damn game with the raiders
March 4th, 2010 at 1:43 pm
No doubt regarding the GOP, Dogg. They’ve never won an election without scaring people. Why give up on that method?
March 4th, 2010 at 1:44 pm
MR
Did you see those pictures depicting Obama as Heath Ledger’s Joker from Dark Knight and Harry Reid as Scooby Doo? Are these people in high school? Fukking ridiculous…
March 4th, 2010 at 1:45 pm
It’s not that the Raiders suck on there that’s unrealistic, I mean, that’s quite real. The problem is that they make the Colts and Patriots so much better than what they are. Their receivers catch everything that comes near them, even on the higher two levels. An inexperienced player can take the Colts or Patriots to the Super Bowl on the all pro level on their first run. Their exaggeration of how good the good teams are takes the challenge away from players using those teams.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:46 pm
LOL @ McSkinny. so in Madden 10 Russell can throw a football through the goal posts from his own 30 yard line, but can’t properly execute a screen pass or corner route? wow.
does he even throw the ball at his targets feet?
March 4th, 2010 at 1:46 pm
Antwan Randle El got released. Sign that dude so he can return punts for us.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:47 pm
Making every team as realistic as they made the Raiders would be a good place to start, to make the game better. The Raiders are pretty real. No blocking. Receivers can’t catch balls when they’re wide open. Overthrown balls. Defensive line is useless. Linebackers can’t play the run, can only get occasional picks.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:47 pm
“Madden video game got better and better and better, graphics wise, play wise, everything, until the exclusivity was signed with the NFL and EA Sports. Since then, they’ve cut corners. Where are their consumers going to go? They know Madden gamers are addicts and need a new, updated game every year. This year, everything was worse, except they added “gang tackling”. Oooh. I’ll take last year’s version and their one on one tackling. It’s a much better game.”
Cut major corners.
Sure, it looks good — but as long as the demand is so high for the game, they can continue to put out an inferior product.
The draft is absolutely marvelous though. I find gems in every round.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:48 pm
I’ll tell you what…Jamarcus is most accurate when throwing out of bounds. Its a guarentee he’ll actually hit somebody.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:48 pm
McFadden gets injured just about every time he’s tackled…
March 4th, 2010 at 1:49 pm
rr dude i refuse to play with russell hes by far and away the worst qb in the game i start big grads. accuracy is much better.o and mr tottally agree
March 4th, 2010 at 1:49 pm
Randle El had 50 catches for 530 yards.
So…he had better stats than our WR’s and he can return punts. Sign him ASAP!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:50 pm
Jamarcus is most accurate when throwing out of bounds. Its a guarentee he’ll actually hit somebody.
***
thats funny. I didn’t think he could hit the ocean, standing on the beach!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:51 pm
If you guys haven’t seen this…its a must see.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FMcdReHNOE
March 4th, 2010 at 1:51 pm
tell you what though louis murphy is a beast in 10
March 4th, 2010 at 1:52 pm
Of course, put Jeff Garcia in if you haven’t updated the Raiders’ roster, and he starts hitting receivers. And funny how he gets time in the pocket, too. Like our line just gets better when Garcia is in. They need to stop trying to add their own dramatic scripts to the program, and just set every team at a certain strength and let the game be about skill. I simulated the Colts and Saints before the Super Bowl, and they brag about their simulations being realistic. Final score, Colts 72, Saints 68.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:53 pm
RaiderRockstar – Haha. The tide coming in would cause JR to duck down and avoid getting hit. I’ve never seen such a big man crumble like that. He could easily stiff arm defenders and take them down if he really wanted too. What a waste of 300 lbs.
March 4th, 2010 at 1:54 pm
only seymour can tackle in 10
March 4th, 2010 at 1:56 pm
The tide coming in would cause JR to duck down and avoid getting hit.
***
24:
JR would trip over some kelp, lose the ball and a 5 year old would grab it & run off with it!
March 4th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
i cant remember what game it was but after a horrible jroc throw i saw the youngster murphy right in his face talkin smack.not good when a rookie wr is bullying your star (lol) qb.CUT RUSSELL
March 4th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
I’d take Antwan Randle El if the price was right …
March 4th, 2010 at 1:58 pm
The Real MaddenRaider Says:
March 4th, 2010 at 1:37 pm
Madden (video game) sucks because the NFL signed an exclusive agreement with EA Sports. No competition. And, despite the far fetched raves I’ve heard from fans of the new Madden, I think it’s worse than last year. The graphics look more animated, with cheaper fonts. They’re cutting corners on their product, they’re going to charge more for it, and gamers who want a fresh new NFL game every year are stuck with it because they have no competition.
=========================
THATS why monopolies are bad.
Last NFL game that is STILL the best NFL game EVER is ESPN 2K5 with T.O. on the cover.
Last game developed by independent code writers with out bean counters sniffing over their shoulders to cut corners.
Perfect game especially in franchise mode.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:00 pm
“Transfer the energy, yes, no?”
March 4th, 2010 at 2:01 pm
i cant remember what game it was but after a horrible jroc throw i saw the youngster murphy right in his face talkin smack.not good when a rookie wr is bullying your star (lol) qb.CUT RUSSELL
***
Anybody who works their tail off and prepares like a pro will get sick of seeing their “franchise” QB slack off & play poorly. Not sure how many guys like JR we’ve got on the roster. Cable said about 10 percent, but most of those guys are either gone already or will be soon. that means 90 percent of the locker room wants Bruce to start at QB imo
March 4th, 2010 at 2:01 pm
The Real MaddenRaider Says:
March 4th, 2010 at 1:48 pm
McFadden gets injured just about every time he’s tackled…
====================
Thats funny cuz the way he runs he launches himself off his feet on contact like he’s deathly afraid of getting his cleats hung up in the turf and getting…you guessed it, injured…
March 4th, 2010 at 2:03 pm
AND btw EA sports?
Ufk built in terminality.
Thats the same philosophy that helped sink the American car market.
Sick of crap thats built to break in a year or two so we’re “forced” to go back to Commie Wal mart.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:05 pm
I still got Russell’s back. We’ll see how OTA’s go and mini’s.
I’d just hate for enemies to have “worst draft bust ever” to hang over our heads plus, if he lives up to potential, the guy could be great.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:06 pm
Jamal Williams officially got released right now and so did Philip Buchanon. Uh oh!
March 4th, 2010 at 2:07 pm
I would definatly go after jamal williams.. He still has atleast 1 or 2 years left… He is a big reason why Chargers D tanks when he is out.. He is a force..It wouldn’t be the first time we took one of there DT (parrella)..any ways that would
March 4th, 2010 at 2:08 pm
Jamal Williams officially got released right now and so did Philip Buchanon. Uh oh!
***
“Phillip giveth and Phillip taketh away”
who said that?
and don’t google it!
March 4th, 2010 at 2:08 pm
Its really hard to keep track of all the guys available but there is some talent out there right now.
Trade a 3rd round for Boldin. Trade a 5th round for Troy Smith. Sign Antwan Randle El for WR/PR/KR. Sign Jamal Williams and Lito Sheppard. Come on Al…make me your GM. I know how to spend your money.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:08 pm
RaideRockstar – Tim Brown.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:09 pm
I think I’d rather have Philip Buchanon over Stanford Routt. At least Buchanon can return punts.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:10 pm
So Hiram Eugene gets a 2nd rnd tender. So the Raiders must think he’s more valuable than Kirk Morrison,,,hmm,,I guess that play when Willis McGahee threw Eugene to the ground like a Lil’ hoe on his way for an 80something yrd TD run never happened. Im quite confused why the bench warmers are being valued higher than the starters. I dont get it. Hiram Eugene ladies & gentlemen.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:12 pm
very good 24! haha
I’d steer clear of P-Buck and Ray Buchanon too!!
March 4th, 2010 at 2:13 pm
Damn, I just saw that McGahee/Eugene play the other day. How embarrassing, that was brutal.
2nd Tender????????
March 4th, 2010 at 2:15 pm
To hell with it…Sign Peppers too. Release Kelly.
LDE – Shaughnessy/Ellis
LDT – Richard Seymour
RDT – Jamal Williams
RDE – Julius Peppers
COME ON!
March 4th, 2010 at 2:21 pm
I can break tackles with DMC in Madden 10. I’d say that’s pretty unrealistic. And they have Russell rated way too high.
Trading can be unrealistic too. I get some pretty decent draft picks for some pretty sh1tty players like Terdell Sands, Holland, and Alston.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:23 pm
Did Karlos Dansby get signed? I don’t remember.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:23 pm
RB Michael Bennett
S Antrel Rolle
TE Chris Baker
goners …
Vrabel gets an extension in KC
March 4th, 2010 at 2:24 pm
Did Karlos Dansby get signed?
***
24: not yet, but it won’t be long
Miami said they start the bidding at 30 mil guaranteed
March 4th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
I always trade my 1st round picks for proven players in Madden and I stock my roster will Pro Bowl players. Then I sign all the best free agents with 7 year contracts and when their contracts get to 5 years remaining, I re-sign them to 7 years again and keep them playing on the 1st year of their contracts which is the lowest number. I’m a freakin guru.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:28 pm
*Here at UFC gym, watching Raiders LB Thomas Howard celebrate restricted FA with a devastating workout.
*Man, I need to get in shape. Tired just watching him.
*Part of workout: lift 70 lb body bag over shoulder, slam to the ground 40 times. Maybe they should dress it in a Chargers uniform.
-David White (twitter)
March 4th, 2010 at 2:30 pm
I manage the salary cap and ensure that when I re-sign a player, I’m lowering the salary cap otherwise if re-signing them makes the salary cap higher, I will wait till the next year to do so. By years 7-10 in Franchise mode, you will see your team STACKED.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:32 pm
The Big Banana Says:
March 4th, 2010 at 2:21 pm
I can break tackles with DMC in Madden 10. I’d say that’s pretty unrealistic. And they have Russell rated way too high.
i agree a 63 ovr is waaaayyyyy too high for russell
March 4th, 2010 at 2:33 pm
i agree a 63 ovr is waaaayyyyy too high for russell
***
what is the lowest they go?
50?
March 4th, 2010 at 2:34 pm
24 i like keepin the real team so i dont make any trades just play it out the way it is of couse with russell on the bench
March 4th, 2010 at 2:34 pm
They should put Jamarcus Russell and Ryan Leaf into an Octagon so we can watch them fight. Thats entertainment.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:34 pm
rr dunno ill check right now
March 4th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
rr u mean whats the lowest they go or lowest qb?
March 4th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
Mcskinnylegs – Well I change the team over the years through the franchise mode. The objective is to run the team like you’re the GM and my goal is to make the team better over the years, not stick with Al Davis’ team. That only leads to losing.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:38 pm
this is gonna take awhile have 2 do update for ps3 in my bedroom wifes in livin room wifi in bedroom
March 4th, 2010 at 2:39 pm
Trade DMAC for a ban on video game chat!
March 4th, 2010 at 2:39 pm
Mcskinnylegs – Well I change the team over the years through the franchise mode. The objective is to run the team like you’re the GM and my goal is to make the team better over the years, not stick with Al Davis’ team. That only leads to losing.
lol awesome.dude you can turn the cap off u know
March 4th, 2010 at 2:39 pm
i like keepin the real team so i dont make any trades just play it out the way it is of couse with russell on the bench
***
I’m the opposite. I’ve got Madden 2006 on PS2 in my “Raider room”
got hooked on franchise mode several years ago when the game first came out. now it’s the year 2031 and obviously there aren’t any current NFL players on the game. LOL
got PS3 hooked to the big screen tv in the front room and Madden 08 (or whichever one has Favre on the cover), but its just not the same
March 4th, 2010 at 2:40 pm
thought u only pop up when sum1 else is talkin trash bout dmac lol
March 4th, 2010 at 2:41 pm
lol year 2031 damn bro
March 4th, 2010 at 2:44 pm
I know, but keep in mind I started the franchise 4 years ago (in real life)
love to build my own team with my own kind of players and kick some tail
my Raiders team on Madden has a real NT. go figure!
haha
March 4th, 2010 at 2:46 pm
They should have a sense of humor and have snowstorms in Phoenix in 2031, 90 degree weather in New England in December, a couple of stadiums toppled from earthquakes, where they play the games at a high school, only 10 teams left in the league, with only black and white uniforms, and a Chinese flag at every stadium.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:47 pm
Rich-O
You always talk as if John Madden and Al Davis and the Raiders have had some sort of falling out. Some sort of strained relationship or something.You act as if John is more closely associated with the 49ers and Santa Clara than Alameda. I’m not sure where all that is coming from.
I’ve read three of Madden’s books, all written well after he was done coaching and into his broadcast career.He still described Al Davis as his best friend. Vacationed together with the wives, etc.
Did you see his “Road to Canton” special a couple of years ago on NFLN. Everyhting on his bus, and his home was “Commitment to Exellence”. All his hand written notes were on Raiders stationary. Besides As Big John himself always says: “Once a Raider, always a Raider!”
What happened during Super Bowl week in 2002?
Enlighten the ignorant masses if you don’t mind. Please.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:52 pm
I believe Madden and Davis had a beef, I just want to hear Richochet’s details. He sounds like he knows something most people don’t know. In a couple of those books written by former players or coaches, whatever, I forget, they say that Matuzsak once told the team during practice that if they ran one more good play, practice would be over, and Madden went livid. I think that was Madden’s last year that. So I’m thinking maybe Davis might have sided with the Tooz, and Madden had had enough.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
Madden saying Davis is his friend is not any kind of evidence whatsoever that the two of them didn’t have problems when Madden was there. There’s this thing called lip service.
March 4th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
Richochet only spewed minimum venom today, must have passed out drunk earlier than usual.Only 3 posts before he faded…
March 4th, 2010 at 2:59 pm
5pm in Podunk. later gents!
March 4th, 2010 at 2:59 pm
I’ve never heard of anything between Davis/Madden.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:04 pm
lol, dave. He probably never went to sleep. He was on fire last night. He must have marital problems, if he really is married. What woman is going to let her husband be on line as much as he is? Wives today don’t play that. I know guys who are married. I’ve interacted with the married species. I know how they live.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:09 pm
RMR,
LOL. You’re not lying brother. I haven’t been around heremuch the last couple of days. The wife’s been off work. Spending some quality time. Don’t wanna hear “you in front of that damn computer again?”
March 4th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
What I remember Madden saying pushed him into retirement was the Darryl Stingley Tragedy. That was the last straw. He always spoke highly of Al and their working relationship in the books I read.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
MADDEN’S REFERENCE TO THE STINGLEY TRAGEDY WAS A METAPHOR FOR HIS CHAOS WITH AL DAVIS, AND YOU KNOW IT!!
Oh, I’m kidding. Talk to you guys later.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:27 pm
Tomorrow is payday, so tomorrow is order my sweet Bruce white throwback jersey day!!!
A great day to be a Raider fan!!!
March 4th, 2010 at 3:33 pm
damn i had 2 take off back now
March 4th, 2010 at 3:35 pm
new post
March 4th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
Why in hell would you keep Routt???? He is so sub par as a back he gave up big play almost evrytime he played of course no one is going to give up picks for him!!! Not even Oakland high would trade for this guy..As for the rest on tender oh well times are changing..
March 4th, 2010 at 4:09 pm
Good evening, Raiders fans! I wish I hadn’t already completely spoken my mind regarding the tenders earlier today… I find myself at a loss for relevant things to say at the moment.
March 4th, 2010 at 4:14 pm
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