Brennan ready to be thrown into the fire
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Sunday, August 8th, 2010 at 8:22 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Colt Brennan can’t promise things will always go as they’ve been drawn up, but that doesn’t mean he can’t put a little excitement into the Raiders’ preseason opener in Dallas.
“I’ve always had an ability to see the field and make a play,” Brennan said after taking his first snaps as a Raiders quarterback Sunday. “Sometimes it drives the coach nuts but when it works I end up getting a touchdown or something good ends up happening. I can kind of hopefully rely on that Thursday night and see the field and make some good plays and hopefully throw no interceptions and make minimal mistakes.”
Brennan is getting a crash course in the Raiders system, spending most of the Saturday afternoon practice huddling with passing game coordinator Ted Tollner (he’s still listed that way even though the Raiders have an offensive coordinator in Hue Jackson) and the majority of Sunday looking over plays with quarterbacks coach Paul Hackett.
With Bruce Gradkowski unable to practice with a groin strain and Charlie Frye nursing a wrist injury on his throwing hand, the Raiders either had to find a quarterback who could see time against Dallas or face the possibility of playing Jason Campbell and Kyle Boller longer than they wanted. Typically, the starting quarterback in the preseason opener goes a quarter at the most, and sometimes less.
Putting Campbell in harms way against hungry Dallas reserves is not an option.
So Brennan could get at least a quarter of play or maybe more _ with his performance on short notice dictating whether he heads out of town once Gradkowski and Frye or healthy or is intriguing enough to keep around as a potential No. 3 or practice squad quarterback.
Brennan didn’t take any snaps in team session until the practice was nearly 90 minutes old, and completing 4 of 6 passes, including two nice medium-depth completions to Todd Watkins. His first completion was a roll out to the right in which he improvised and found Johnnie Lee Higgins.
Raiders coach Tom Cable sounded as if he’s simply getting an emergency quarterback ready for an immediate assignment, and wasn’t looking beyond anything more. The Raiders also considered Jevon Snead, the Ole Miss quarterback quarterback who came out early and went undrafted, but opted to go with someone with NFL preseason game experience.
“In case both of those guys are still out by the time we leave Wednesday, it will give us a chance to finish the game up with him,” Cable said.
Last year with the Redskins, Brennan completed 16 of 26 passes for 164 yards in the last two preseason games to ensure himself a spot on the roster as a sixth-round draft pick, but underwent March knee surgery and was released Aug. 2 when Washington acquired John Beck from Miami.
“I got a call Friday night asking if I could try out,” Brennan said of his Raiders’ opportunity. “I’m happy to get another opportunity in the league.”
Brennan isn’t a classic big-armed prototype quarterback the Raiders prefer. Listed at 6-foot-3, he looks closer to Gradkowski’s 6-1.
But he’s well-schooled in terms of passing offense dating back to his days in high school backing up Matt Leinart at Mater Dei, and in June Jones’ freewheeling Hawaii attack. Brennan threw an NCAA record 58 touchdowns in a season and held 30 Division I passing records at the time of his graduation.
“ I grew up in Southern California, my dad had Raiders tickets growing up,” Brennan said. “I was looking at my helmet the other day right before I put it on and I was thinking it’s kind of weird but it’s also kind of cool to be putting on the silver and black.
Right now basically I’m just trying to get somewhat of a gameplan for Thursday night just so I can be ready. I can at least look like I know what I’m doing out there and have a chance to move the ball and have some success with that third team.”
Play well and Brennan could become a competitor for a roster or practice squad. If he plays well and the Raiders still don’t think he’s a fit, there’s something on tape for another team or the UFL.
More news, notes and quotes from Sunday’s lone practice session:
– Not a good day for Raiders receivers. With Zach Miller out with an undisclosed injury (he was seen leaving practice the other day with his upper left thigh taped), good hands were in short supply. Most conspicuous was a Chaz Schilens drop in the end zone on a near-perfect jason Campbell throw against the blitz, and a ball which thudded off the hands of Darrius Heyward-Bey loud enough to be heard throughout the wine country.
Tight end Brandon Myers was also struggling to hold on to the ball.
“I didn’t think we caught the ball particularly well during the blitz period, and hopefully we’ll come back tomorrow and clean that up a little bit,” Cable said.
Cable said according to the practice charts kept by the team, “We’re miles and miles ahead that way. What I don’t like is, what I saw today, there’s a drill where it’s a critical period because of the blitz and we’re getting some things protected and getting the ball out, and we’ve just got to make those plays catching. I think there were three or four of them. That’s too many.”
– Darned if Nick Miller isn’t making another run at a roster spot after being sidelined all of last year with a broken tibia. He made one terrific end zone grab of a Campbell pass, and again occasionally has lined up and taken pitches as a running back out of the backfield.
– Alex Daniels, the undrafted free agent who started camp as a defensive end, has a new number. Instead of wearing No. 71 in black, he’s No. 39 in white. He’ll fit into the confusing fullback competition for the foreseeable future.
“We’re going to move him over there and take it out of the experiment category and put it in the realistic category and see if we can develop him,” Cable said.
Daniels has been in at least two fights with his former defensive teammates, but stayed out of scuffles Sunday. The lone battle was between Langston Walker and Desmond Bryant. It was quickly broken up, with a few defensive backs, including Michael Huff and Tyvon Branch, staging their own fake fight in the aftermath.
– If only the Raiders could break up their existing fullbacks and create one player _ the receiving skills of Marcel Reece (who looked very good in that area Sunday), the bulk and power of Daniels, the blocking skills of Manase Tonga. Luke Lawton continues to miss time with a concussion and will be out with a concussion and will miss the first two games of the season under suspension.
– Wide receiver Jonathan Holland was waived injured to make room for Brennan. That means the Raiders are responsible for his rehab up to the point where he’s ready to sign with someone else. He’s out with a high ankle sprain. He would also be eligible to sign with the Raiders.
– Michael Bush looked strong during the padded practice as Darren McFadden is out with a hamstring strain. The third-running back battle between Rock Cartwright and Michael Bennett remains intriguing and a bit of a dilemma.
If Bush and McFadden are healthy, then Cartwright is the better option because of special teams play. But if one of the lead backs are injured, Bennett looks like the superior runner of the two competitors fighting for the spot vacated by Justin Fargas.
– Jacoby Ford was limited with a quadriceps strain, going through a few drills but no team sessions. Others who didn’t practice included defensive end Jay Richardson (sore knee). Richard Seymour (back spasms) made it into some team sessions, and Robert Gallery (ankle) was full go at left guard.
– Either the Raiders are getting a look at other players or Thomas Howard is biding his time awaiting to be cut or traded. Despite his speed and pass coverage ability, he wasn’t even running with the second team nickel defense.
– Safety Jerome Boyd was ordered off the field by secondary coach Kevin Ross for not lining up correctly and criticized shortly afterward for being slow to react. Boyd then earned compliments from Ross for better pursuit to a running play.
– The Raiders hold a single practice today at 3:30 p.m. and have a double session Tuesday before leaving for Dallas Wednesday. Twitter practice updates should return Monday and Tuesday.
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August 8th, 2010 at 8:28 pm
Puter down again?
August 8th, 2010 at 8:28 pm
Whats with all these injuries!
August 8th, 2010 at 8:29 pm
Sounds like THoward might indeed be on his way out of town. Guess I was wrong again.
G’Night fellas.
August 8th, 2010 at 8:33 pm
Hopefully Thomas Howard sticks around. I have a feeling the Raiders are going to miss having him around on passing downs if they get rid of him.
August 8th, 2010 at 8:42 pm
Dmac injured?
Wow.
What were the chances?
August 8th, 2010 at 8:56 pm
Lets go Colt!!!
August 8th, 2010 at 8:58 pm
Little Nicky Miller is becoming a favorite of mine because the guy just goes hard all the time. He makes plays and I have a good feeling about this kid.
August 8th, 2010 at 9:05 pm
Brennan and Daniels sex scandals
http://www.raidernationstation.com/exclusives
August 8th, 2010 at 9:07 pm
I think both guys have over come these mistakes. Colts likely a camp arm and pre season back up but if Grads can’t get and stay healthy he’s not much use.
Daniels would be awesome at FB.
August 8th, 2010 at 9:29 pm
One thing about Colt- he brings a positive attitude and gives his best effort for his team on and off the field.
If you would like to check out our home turf and meet some of the Hawaii fans from Colt’s Alma mater, please drop in:
http://warriorbeat.honadvblogs.com/2010/08/08/raiders-brennan-are-a-nice-match/comment-page-3/#comment-446424
We follow journalist Stephen Tsai and are generally known as Tsai-kos.
We’re more than a blog, or a booster club -it’s a community like you have here – and we get together realtime for tailgates, travel to away games, and generally find excuses to have fun.
August 8th, 2010 at 9:39 pm
DMac in mid season form – injured. This guy makes a career out of being 1st in line a the trainer’s table. He may have been a #4 pick but he’s played more like a late round who cares or UDFA. In case he doesn’t know it, this is his year to sink or swim. It’s still not too late to let him join JaLoser in the UFL next year. Get your schit together DMac. Play to your potential or hit the road. Time waits for no man, including YOU!
August 8th, 2010 at 9:42 pm
We need three running backs and three quarterbacks.
August 8th, 2010 at 9:57 pm
Thanks Liz!
August 8th, 2010 at 10:44 pm
We need to add a FB & C, and cut Luke & Eugene.
August 8th, 2010 at 11:36 pm
Hiram Eugene is the only FS other than Michael Huff on the roster. I’d sooner cut Sam Williams. And Luke Lawton, of course.
August 9th, 2010 at 12:24 am
The Raiders have now had 11 days of training camp and numerous practice sessions. Some players are helping themselves on the depth chart, whilst others have to be sweating the coming cut down days.
Today’s look is a rundown of the offensive camp battles, and how they have been shaping up.
Quarterbacks:
Jason Campbell was the projected starter coming into camp, and has done nothing to change that assessment.
Bruce Gradkowski was expected to tbe the second quarterback coming into camp, but he had a rough start shaking off the rust after his offseason injuries. He was picking it up when he strained his groin. As long as the injury is not serious, he will be the number two guy.
Kyle Boller and Charlie Frye were expected to compete for the thrid quarterback position. Boller had been having a slightly better camp than Frye on the practice field. However, Frye is the better system fit. Frye went down with a wrist injury on Thursday and the Raiders signed Colt Brennan on Saturday. Brennan’s youth likely gives him a leg up on either Boller or Frye for the third quarterback position.
Running backs:
Michael Bush and Darren McFadden are going to be essentially one a and one b. The goal for Hue Jackson will be to find the proper way to play to the different strengths that the two backs have. Veteran Michael Bennet has made a couple of nice plays and looks like he will fit into the role of a third running back.
The fullback situation has gotten more interesting with Manase Tonga, Luke Lawton, and Marcel Reece all missing time due to injury. In the absence of actual fullbacks tight end Brandon Myers has spent some time back there, with the coaches getting a look at him in an h-back situation. In a move that definitely would but some beef back ther 6′5″ 265lb defensive end Alex Daniels. Cable has also spoke of using defensive end Lamarr Houston in a fullback role along the goal line.
Since returning from the injuries, Reece has been coming on strong as a receiver out of the backfield. The third year player out of Washington appears to be playing himself onto the team.
Tight ends:
Zach Miller is going to be the starter, and from early appearances is going to build on his numbers, and may be in the Pro Bowl conversation at the end of the season. Brandon Myers has been the primary second team receiver. With Tony Stewart and John Owens are fighting for the third tight end slot. It seems like Steawrt has a slight edge.
Wide receivers:
There was some early concern about the depth at this position after injuries to Chaz Schilens and Louis Murphy. When healthy, they have both shown promising. Darrius Heyward-Bey has also looked greatly improved from 2009. These three are going to be core of the receiving corps.
Jonathan Holland who had played some defensive back also last season was waived today to clear the space for Brennan removing one of the bottom of the depth chart competitors.
The bubble under veteran Johnnie Lee Higgins has gotten thinner. He has struggled at times, whilst both Nick Miller and Jacoby Ford have been making catches. Paul Hubbard has been almost invisiable. Shaun Bodiford and Yamon Figurs have both had moments, but been long shots.
It is looking like Jacoby Ford will be the fourth receiver kept, so that leaves a lot of guys fighting for what is likely one remaining position.
Offensive line:
Offensive tackle: Mario Henderson is locked in as the left tackle starter, and barring injury Langston Walker will be starting on the right side. Khalif Barnes and Jared Veldheer will be the reserve tackles
Offensive guards: Robert Gallery amd Cooper Carlisle are entrenched as starters. Bruce Campbell has been making the move to right guard after having been a tackle in college. Barnes has also been getting second snaps at guard.
Center: Samson Satele is going to be the starter. Chris Morris was expected to be the back up swing center-guard, however Veldeheer has been a surprising entrant in to that competition. He has caught the team’s attention enough to have his position listed on the official roster as T/C. look for Veldheer to see some action at center in Dallas.
Evenin NATION.
August 9th, 2010 at 12:27 am
YoungAmerican…Sam Williams has been on scholorship for the past few years. It makes you think that maybe he knows where the body is buried? I agree with your take.
After watching the Cowboys and Bengals Sunday evening, it appears we’re going to be blitzed quite a bit. It will be a wake up call for our offensive line, which we suspect to be our biggest weakness. Thursday’s game is going to show us a lot. We really need Gradkowski and Frye in there Thursday to see how they handle the blitzing, which will determine who our number 2 and 3 QB’s are going to be. Should be fun watching that first quarter with our starters going against their starters, especially with Dallas have the advantage of a preseason game under their belts.
August 9th, 2010 at 12:34 am
DirtyRaccoon…Real nice post and observation of what’s going on to date. You need to do the same on our defense and I’ll be looking forward to reading your takes.
Good nite nation. Go Raiders!
August 9th, 2010 at 12:58 am
It’s a scab.
August 9th, 2010 at 2:54 am
wanna authentic jerseys as a Christmas gift, come with http://www.jerseys-factory.com
August 9th, 2010 at 5:17 am
The Thomas Howard situation predicted by yours truly.
He still MAY make the team, but only if others fail. He won’t get much of a chance to carve his own way, they already have years of his body of work.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:01 am
Shame for the Cowboys 3rd TE, John Phillips. He looked like one of the best players on the field after the 1’s were off, and even played with the ones at times.
Out with a suspected ACL tear.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:08 am
Raccoon,
Enjoyed your roster take on the offensive side of the ball. Only one thing, though, that I wodered if you’d clarify; you mention that Frye is a “better system fit” than Boller. I’m wondering how you came to that conclusion, since Boller has actually worked with Hue Jackson, and it’s his system that the Raiders will be running this year.
You also don’t mention Todd Watkins. I think he may be in the mix at WR as well. Daniel Loper could also make the team; he has played (and started) in the league as a tackle and as a guard, which makes him the type of versatile o-lineman that Cable seems to like.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:09 am
Wide receivers:
There was some early concern about the depth at this position after injuries to Chaz Schilens and Louis Murphy. When healthy, they have both shown promising. Darrius Heyward-Bey has also looked greatly improved from 2009. These three are going to be core of the receiving corps.
Jonathan Holland who had played some defensive back also last season was waived today to clear the space for Brennan removing one of the bottom of the depth chart competitors.
The bubble under veteran Johnnie Lee Higgins has gotten thinner. He has struggled at times, whilst both Nick Miller and Jacoby Ford have been making catches. Paul Hubbard has been almost invisiable. Shaun Bodiford and Yamon Figurs have both had moments, but been long shots.
It is looking like Jacoby Ford will be the fourth receiver kept, so that leaves a lot of guys fighting for what is likely one remaining position.
——
everytime i see a description of out WR depth chart somebodies missing..yet he always makes clutch catches and usually makes the team….#19
August 9th, 2010 at 6:12 am
Todd Watkins also plays on coverage units in ST, something none of the other fringe WR’s do.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:16 am
Didn’t watch the game yesterday but from what I’ve read so far it seems as if the Cowboys had some protection issues.
It’ll be interesting to see how the “new” D plays against them.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:19 am
Romo got knocked down a couple of times, but both O-lines looked very shaky.
He also slid right out of the pocket on a 3rd and 12 with a blitz coming, had all day and completed a pass for a first down.
Dallas will play it’s starters a little longer than last year against us, with it being the second game, and it will be a good test.
They will be a top 10 offense, maybe better.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:22 am
Interesting to see who plays on offense this Thursday.
Bruce might be out, Gallery will be limited, Chaz may rest, same with Miller and Darren (or at least be limited).
August 9th, 2010 at 6:23 am
JFB,
Looking forward to it. Also want to see if Marshall mixes it up or plays it straight. Although it’s early it could be an indication of what he’ll do when the shooting starts for real.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:24 am
I expect to see some different looks, and some 3rd down blitzes.
I just can’t wait to see McClain play. Not even considering his actual playing, he is going to look so much more imposing in the middle.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:28 am
Yep, can’t wait to see McClain either. I have a feeling he’s going to be something.
I also have a feeling that he’s going to make some mistakes. He plays a position of tremendous responsibility and even though he learned under Nick Saban, it’s still the NFL and he’s going to be tested.
I just hope that folks are patient with him, and not expect Ray Lewis right away.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:35 am
* His first completion was a roll out to the right in which he improvised and found Johnnie Lee Higgins.
* Even coaches use computer abbreviations, Tollner yells, ‘Nice, rout, JLH!,’
***
Yeehaw!
August 9th, 2010 at 6:37 am
He is going to make mistakes, and it will take awhile to get the position down (probably 2-3 years in actuality).
Even still, talent and smarts has a way of showing itself, and there will be some eye-popping plays this year, and I can’t wait to see them.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:37 am
Alex Daniels, the undrafted free agent who started camp as a defensive end, has a new number. Instead of wearing No. 71 in black, he’s No. 39 in white. He’ll fit into the confusing fullback competition for the foreseeable future.
“We’re going to move him over there and take it out of the experiment category and put it in the realistic category and see if we can develop him,” Cable said.
Daniels has been in at least two fights with his former defensive teammates, but stayed out of scuffles Sunday.
***
Go Daniels!
August 9th, 2010 at 6:40 am
Fire Baby: the Cowboys most impressive player last night was John Phillips and he has a torn ACL now, so I like our chances when the game goes to scrubs versus scrubs
you already know the impact Dallas starting D has on Jason Campbell. first 2 series expect 3 points total (at best)
August 9th, 2010 at 6:44 am
JC’s two games total against Dallas last year = 6 points, 3 turnovers.
Would be quite the monkey off his back if he puts together a TD drive (and great momentum builder for us)
August 9th, 2010 at 6:50 am
Jon Ritchie = #40
Alex Daniels = #39
close enough. go AD!
August 9th, 2010 at 6:54 am
we canNOT afford to let THOMAS HOWARD go! I don’t want G Irons and T. Brayton (two former DL) dropping into pass coverage again.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:57 am
Why can’t we let Howard go?
He is fast, but I can’t remember one play he made in pass coverage last year, and take away his one good year with the six picks, he has 46 starts, 1 INT, 11 passes defensed.
He is a run of the mill player.
August 9th, 2010 at 6:57 am
I don’t want G Irons and T. Brayton (two former DL) dropping into pass coverage again.
***
not thrilled about Scott/Wimbley in coverage?
what about Sam Williams or Quinton Groves?
also former DL …
cement footed McClain should be enough, right?
August 9th, 2010 at 6:59 am
Good Morning Nation!!!
It’s finally here off and running!!!
August 9th, 2010 at 7:01 am
Cement-footed McClain??
Podunk hyberbole!!!
August 9th, 2010 at 7:02 am
Good morning Hwnrdr!
your boy Brennan wearing silver & black, eh? nice
anybody with that Humuhumunukunukuapua’a mojo should instantly bond with Darrius Heyward-Bey, Darren McFadden & Johnnie Lee Higgins !!!
good signing Al …
August 9th, 2010 at 7:03 am
Yes…I found out yesterday because I was at work all day and night on Saturday…
I hope he at least gets a chance to showcase what he may or may not still have!
August 9th, 2010 at 7:05 am
Fire Baby:
The town where I grew up is so isolated, even insects won’t live there.
now THATS a hyperbole
August 9th, 2010 at 7:05 am
I’m a bit uneasy about our RB’s, a few months ago I posted about getting Marshawn Lynch, we might need to take a look at the guy, yeah he’s a head case but a great talent as well and most of all, a proven NFL back who’s actually younger than Michael Bush.
Gotta run, talk more about it later.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:07 am
McClain will have more INT’s than Morrison and Howard combined this year.
Book it!!
August 9th, 2010 at 7:07 am
Scott and Wimbley will NOT be in coverage much, if at all.
Scott will move to DE or blitz from OLB position in passing situations.
Another thing is I expect to see the 3 S set as our primary defense. Or the big nickel I think they are calling it.
Mike Mithcell will be on the field A LOT, IMO.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:07 am
RMR is so ugly, he has to sneak up on his dish to eat
-another proper hyperbole
August 9th, 2010 at 7:09 am
Bennett and Rock should be better than Fargas, and Bush will get more carries this year.
As long as Bush is healthy, our RB’s should be fine.
Anything over 600 yards rushing and 4 TD’s from Darren is house-money.
Gotta run as well, later.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:10 am
Going to be really interesting to see how the defensive lineup shakes out. I can’t see Scott, Wimbley, or McClain being off the field much. Same with the 3 safeties.
I think we are going to see A LOT of 3 man DLines.
I also think we are going to see a lot of 6 DBs with 3 CBs and 3 Safeties.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:12 am
As long as Bush is healthy, our RB’s should be fine.
Anything over 600 yards rushing and 4 TD’s from Darren is house-money.
***
what ???
M Bush has less than 1,000 rushing yards and only 6 rush TD’s in his last two seasons combined.
and he was healthy!
i’m not ready to crown him just yet. we need DMAC
August 9th, 2010 at 7:13 am
I think Thomas Howard still has trade value.We should trade him to Buffalo for Marshawn Lynch.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:15 am
Anything over 600 yards rushing and 4 TD’s from Darren is house-money.
——————————————————-
Huh?
I think we need A LOT more than that from the #4 pick in the draft.
I’m thinking 1500 combined yards and 10 TDs in in order!
August 9th, 2010 at 7:15 am
I think we are going to see A LOT of 3 man DLines.
***
Seymour, Kelly, Bryant, Henderson
NONE of these guys have EVER been a 3-4 NT, have they?
I don’t see that much this year, but possibly on a rare occasion to confuse the offense
I think we’ll bring pressure this year, but I won’t use the B word until I see it during the regular season
August 9th, 2010 at 7:15 am
They tried to trade Howard during the draft and no one wanted him.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:16 am
JWiggle,
6 DBs with 3 corners and 3 safeties means teams will be throwing the ball against us, which likely means we are a) doing a decent job against the run, and b) scoring some points on offense.
I’m all for that.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:20 am
Kelly couldn’t clog the middle with Warren next to him taking up double teams … how in the world could we toss him in there by himself and expect better results?
TK would get swallowed by the center and ROMAC would get mauled by the guard & fullback. up the middle on 3rd & long becomes a real possibility for 12-15 yards and hope Branch gets there sooner
August 9th, 2010 at 7:21 am
NONE of these guys have EVER been a 3-4 NT, have they?
——————————————————-
Here we go with that again.
To clarify, we ran a lot of 3 man lines last year. I can see Scott or Wimbley dropping down to DE and maybe Houston or Kelly coming off the field.
Week 1, for instance, Tenn runs a 2 TE no FB set. I think we will see a 4 man line against them, but a lot of Mike Mitchell in the big nickel.
I said I WONDER how the lineups area going to shake out mayne.
I THINK Mitchell, Huff, and Branch will get a lot of playing time together.
I BELIEVE Scott, Wimbley, and McClain will be on the field A LOT together lining up in different spots.
Kinda by default I see 3 DL. 3 Ss, 3LBs, and 2 corners only leave room for 3 DL.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:22 am
if Oakland wanted to go 3-4 they should have drafted Dan Williams or Terrence Cody. plus gotten Jamal Williams or Maake Kemoeatu in free agency …
August 9th, 2010 at 7:24 am
Buffalo definitely has a LB need now.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:25 am
Jwigg: fair enough (post #59)
still doesn’t answer the 3-4 NT question.
Warren & Joseph did it last year on occasion, didn’t they?
Warren is out and Joseph has to be on thin ice
August 9th, 2010 at 7:25 am
Kelly couldn’t clog the middle with Warren next to him taking up double teams … how in the world could we toss him in there by himself and expect better results?
——————————————————-
We had a long discussion this weekend about that, did you catch it?
According to most, the 3 tech has ZERO run stopping responsibilty. TK was supposed to do nothing last year but shoot his gap and cause some problems at the LOS.
And I wouldn’t really expect TK to play NT in a 3-4. I’m not suggesting that we are going to play a 3-4 at all.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:29 am
Jwigg: allow me to clarify as well
I would LOVE to a 3-4 defense on the field with heavy blitzing
I see Scott, Wimbley, Groves & Mitchell all with a great chance at trashing the QB from OLB
plus Seymour, Shaughnessy, Houston & Richardson at DE?
Kelly & Bryant can even play DE in a 3-4 defense.
everything looks great man. 1 problem
no 3-4 NT on the roster and thats a bigger problem than you may think it is …
August 9th, 2010 at 7:34 am
Got system issues this morning!!!
See you all laters!!!
August 9th, 2010 at 7:35 am
According to most, the 3 tech has ZERO run stopping responsibilty. TK was supposed to do nothing last year but shoot his gap and cause some problems at the LOS.
***
here is how I see it, and I may be wrong …
UT (3 tech): penetration. high motor guy.
NT: strong and usually hefty presense inside to occupy multiple defenders, allowing the UT to get pressure inside and wreak havoc on RB’s or QB’s
guys bring up the 55 tackles from TK last year as a reason he did a good job, but how many of those stops were made at or behind the line of scrimmage? very few imo. and how many sacks did he have?
I think 29th against the run and the most rushing TD’s allowed of any team is a good indicator of that
August 9th, 2010 at 7:37 am
gentlemen, ladies,
600 yds plus 4 TDs = 36 YPG and one TD evry four games. That is abject failure for a RB.
even 1000 yds @ 60 yds per game is a low end pursuit for a quality RB.
trade DMc before he gets injured for the year!
August 9th, 2010 at 7:39 am
#64, You could see John Henderson doing NT work. I think he can do it pretty well with the proposed 3-3-5 scheme we will try to implement. I think Henderson can do it well enough in short stints. Like maybe 5 or 6 plays a game.
Though I agree with many on here, would have loved to have gotten Cam Thomas in the draft or any NT in FA
August 9th, 2010 at 7:39 am
trade DMc before he gets injured for the year!
***
ZzzzZzzzz
trade him before he has a breakout year?
no thanks!
M: go easy on the Hater-Aid, alright?
August 9th, 2010 at 7:41 am
Joe Montana in the EA Madden game looked better than any QB we have had since Gannon.
Sign him up Al!
August 9th, 2010 at 7:43 am
If Howard plus a non-second round draft pick next year could get us Lynch, I say you pull the trigger on that deal. Do I expect it to happen? Not really.
I’m hoping we have a RB stable of:
Bush
McFadden
Bennett
Cartwright
That’s right, I am hoping for all 4 to be around. When (not if) DMAC goes down, Bennett has proven he still has the speed to make up for the injury and he is a pretty tough guy. Cartwright meanwhile looks like he can do some stuff between the tackles and we need that kind of runner if Bush goes down or needs a breather.
Cartwright isn’t good at it, but he’s capable at it. I also like his hands and play on ST. With as much as we rotate back and rely on complementing our backs, I think 4 RB is the MINIMUM.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:43 am
Rice looked better than any of our WRs too….and Marcus Allen looked like he could still play…same with Rod Woodson.
Come on Al, I thought you liked signing old vets?
August 9th, 2010 at 7:43 am
how many of those stops were made at or behind the line of scrimmage? very few imo.
——————————————————-
In your opinion?
You didn’t even see most of the games so how are you coming up with that?
August 9th, 2010 at 7:43 am
You could see John Henderson doing NT work. I think he can do it pretty well with the proposed 3-3-5 scheme we will try to implement. I think Henderson can do it well enough in short stints. Like maybe 5 or 6 plays a game.
***
kaiser: big john has a banged up shoulder right now and he’s not even starting ahead of Seymour, Kelly or Bryant at DT. scouts have told Jerry Mac that he’s washed up
I think he can contribute to the 4-3 DT rotation, but relying on him to be the 3-4 NT hog is a stretch imo.
Chiefs wanted to sign him as a 3-4 NT right after the Jags cut him and he cancelled his visit there. That tells me one of two things 1) he doesn’t want to do it or 2) he can’t do it
August 9th, 2010 at 7:46 am
Jwigg: if you have a reason for thinking TK was a force against the run or pass last year, I’d like to hear it …
# of tackles means jack, ask Kirk Morrison & Danny Clark
August 9th, 2010 at 7:47 am
UT (3 tech): penetration. high motor guy.
NT: strong and usually hefty presense inside to occupy multiple defenders, allowing the UT to get pressure inside and wreak havoc on RB’s or QB’s
——————————————————-
I think the simplest way to describe this is weakside gap DT and strongside gap DT.
I think everyone concedes that it would be idiotic to line a guy up directly over the C in a 4 man line, right?
If both DTs are playing in a gap between the C and OG, then the C determines who he is going to double team. There is no “Hey, TK is on the weakside so = NT = double team him.
At least that’s how I see it. Which is why I don’t see the big deal with the NT lable or 3 tech label. Again, both guys are lined up in a gap between the C and OG, NOT one lined up over the C.
August 9th, 2010 at 7:51 am
Henderson isn’t a 3-4 NOSE GUARD, but he can play NT in a 4-3. Jacksonville had him playing mostly the 5 tech last year in their 3-4 before they switched back to a 4-3.
August 9th, 2010 at 8:12 am
i’m not too worried about the description of a position.
i’m more concerned with having a player that can fulfill his duties.
Again, I don’t see anybody on the roster who could anchor a 3-man line, as was proposed, but I’ve been wrong before!
I love to blitz. I think we have ideal 3-4 backers & DE’s. secondary is already one of the league’s best
just that one position draws a red flag and it should not be overlooked imo, especailly when we haven’t been able to stop the run in 7 years. Don’t think teams won’t test us, even on 3rd & long
August 9th, 2010 at 8:19 am
Hopefully the discipline is much better. I had seeing guys read a play and then over pursue and just get burned. Run or Pass we have to get stops on 3rd down this year and get our defense off the field. Thats huge for momentum!
August 9th, 2010 at 8:25 am
Yeah but they are playing with girls who have better knees then they do and everyone on the field excluding Deion and Rice runs 5.0 40 times. Rice and Deion run 4.7 40s.
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Lakota Says:
August 9th, 2010 at 7:43 am
Rice looked better than any of our WRs too….and Marcus Allen looked like he could still play…same with Rod Woodson.
Come on Al, I thought you liked signing old vets?
August 9th, 2010 at 8:26 am
agreed bcz. as Jerry Mac points out … the two biggest issues are blocking & tackling
which makes the “shirts & shells” learning intensive practices that much more useless
I say bring heavy contact every day twice a day. if one guy gets hurt, the next guy better step up
soft practices make for a soft football team. as many vets will tell you “you practice the way that you play”
August 9th, 2010 at 8:27 am
What up NATION???
August 9th, 2010 at 8:34 am
From all the training camp info I have read only 2 or 3 teams in the NFL are going full speed full contact in practice… just they way of the NFL these days I guess. Believe me I am a proponent of hitting people.
August 9th, 2010 at 8:37 am
Meet Colt Brennan
Talked with new Raiders quarterback Colt Brennan, who was cut Monday by the Redskins and tried out and signed with Oakland on Saturday. The 26-year-old had hip surgery last year, knee surgery this year and is here because the the Raiders needed a warm arm with backups Bruce Gradkowski and Charlie Frye nursing minor injuries.
He may need to play Thursday night against Dallas, and he certainly has to believe he has a shot to beat out Frye and Kyle Boller for the No. 3 job here.
Q: Your brain swimming trying to get up to speed?
A: Well yeah. Obviously I’m excited because I got an opportunity. I grew up in Southern California, my dad had Raiders tickets growing up. … Right now basically I’m just trying to get somewhat of a gameplan for Thursday night just so I can be ready. I can at least look like I know what I’m doing out there and have a chance to move the ball and have some success with that third team.
Q: Offense was free-wheeling at Hawaii, can you do that here?
A: I had a great first year with Washington. I had two games that weren’t bad but I threw a couple picks in key situations. I’ve always had an ability to see the field and make a play. Sometimes it drives the coach nuts but when it works I end up getting a touchdown or something good ends up happening. I can kind of hopefully rely on that Thursday night and see the field and make some good plays and hopefully throw no interceptions and make minimal mistakes.
Q: What kind of QB is (former teammated) Jason Campbell?
A: Already they have an all-around good guy, a hard worker, a guy that’s going to be a leader and gets respect from his players. Jason is a natural, kind of prototypical NFL quarterback. Six-four, he moves really well, he’s got a big arm, can throw the ball down field. I think Jason’s biggest thing that’s been hurting him is he’s never got situated or gotten stabilized as far as coaching and being in the same system for a couple years. That’s when guys start to grow. You don’t see too many guys come out, they Peyton Mannings, the Brett Favres, they all went through their growing pains. Jason’s never really got a chance to get through that.
Posted By: Vittorio Tafur (SF Gate)
August 9th, 2010 at 8:41 am
Tommy Kelly abused by Veldheer on play; he has not shown well so far at camp
Ricky Brown shoves FB Reece right into Campbell for sack
-Vittorio Tafur (twitter)
August 9th, 2010 at 8:50 am
Are those current RRS? I didnt think we had practice this morning
August 9th, 2010 at 8:51 am
start Veldheer at C & Loper at RG or bench TK?
August 9th, 2010 at 8:52 am
Are those current RRS? I didnt think we had practice this morning
***
yesterday (PM session)
August 9th, 2010 at 9:02 am
I think we need A LOT more than that from the #4 pick in the draft.
I’m thinking 1500 combined yards and 10 TDs in in order!
************************************
J,
I was speaking in terms of rushing yards for Darren.
600 yards rushing 900 receiving would be a huge and a posssibility.
But look, the guy is already dinged up. He is the Chaz Schillens of our RB crew, and asking for an increased work-load, increased in amount of games played, and an increase in production…..good luck with that.
Not in one year.
August 9th, 2010 at 9:04 am
TK would get swallowed by the center and ROMAC would get mauled by the guard & fullback.
************************
If McClain is getting “mauled” by fullbacks, than he may be a worse pick than Jamarcus Russell.
August 9th, 2010 at 9:06 am
If McClain is getting “mauled” by fullbacks, than he may be a worse pick than Jamarcus Russell.
***
you said it buddy, not me!
August 9th, 2010 at 9:08 am
Your not going to win every battle with a FB, but a beast MLB will win more than he loses.
McClain will not be getting “mauled” by FB’s, you can book it!!
Besides, how many teams even use FB’s these days? I watched specifically for it last night, and when the 1’s were in the game, I don’t think FB’s were even on the field 30% of the time.
August 9th, 2010 at 9:09 am
[...] McD: Brennan ready to be thrown into the fire Brennan ready to be thrown into the fire – Inside the Oakland Raiders – A look inside the world of t… __________________ RaideroftheSith aka [...]
August 9th, 2010 at 9:13 am
McClain will not be getting “mauled” by FB’s, you can book it!!
——————————————————-
Exactly, lol.
And a C “swallowing up” TK?
LMFAO!
August 9th, 2010 at 9:15 am
Fire Baby: lets bring this back into context, shall we?
we were talking about what the Raider defense would look like in a 3-4 setup and how we’d fair.
I said that with TK in the middle as NT the defense would be gashed up the gut (McClain included)
your thoughts?
this wasn’t a slight on ROMAC as much as it was Kelly
the cement footed thing was all me on Lando earlier though – good catch
August 9th, 2010 at 9:16 am
I said it awhile back and I will say it again.
The Raiders will have to throw the ball to win, more often than not.
We got no real FB for short-yardage situations, not the greatest O-line, and a stable of either unproven young RB’s or also-ran vets.
You can try to have an identity to be a running team, and we will have some success with it at times, but you need to score points this day-in-age in the NFL.
And we aren’t going to be lighting up the scoreboard running off tackle with Darren McFadden, with Marcel Reese lead-blocking behind Cooper Carlisle and Langston Walker.
August 9th, 2010 at 9:16 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
August 9th, 2010 at 7:46 am
Jwigg: if you have a reason for thinking TK was a force against the run or pass last year, I’d like to hear it …
——————————————————-
Is that you answer to me asking you how you came up with your opinion?
Still waiting on you to tell me how you came up with that if you don’t see most of the games.
August 9th, 2010 at 9:17 am
Cable’s Camp is Soft!!
TH is not on the field!?!
You are on thin ice Fat Monkey!
August 9th, 2010 at 9:17 am
Fire Baby: lets bring this back into context, shall we?
we were talking about what the Raider defense would look like in a 3-4 setup and how we’d fair.
——————————————————-
LOL at bringing it back into context!
When were we EVER talking about playing a 3-4?
August 9th, 2010 at 9:19 am
we aren’t going to be lighting up the scoreboard running off tackle with Darren McFadden, with Marcel Reese lead-blocking behind Cooper Carlisle and Langston Walker.
***
no kidding. Reece at FB is a joke. cut him already!
August 9th, 2010 at 9:19 am
we were talking about what the Raider defense would look like in a 3-4 setup and how we’d fair.
*********************************
I would look like a dream for some in here, with Dragons and Unicorns in the background.
We just overhauled our front 7 for a 4-3 look did we not?
Now we will mix in some 3-4 looks, but I expect that to be on passing downs, with Scott & Groves rushing off the outside.
We will not be stopping the run in a 3-4 set with this group.
August 9th, 2010 at 9:21 am
When were we EVER talking about playing a 3-4?
***
Jwigg: I know you like to smoke out, but seriously?
it’s only 9:20am in CA …
3-4 NT means “nose tackle in a 3-4 defense” pal
August 9th, 2010 at 9:21 am
J,
You said the same things about Warren last year, and he was cut! I think your DL evaluation skills are as good as my LB evaluation skills.
Frantz Joseph is the next Ray Lewis!
August 9th, 2010 at 9:22 am
We will not be stopping the run in a 3-4 set with this group.
***
my point exactly.
and the main reason for that (imo) is due to the fact that we don’t have a guy capable of playing NT in the 3-4 … well and then theres the whole “Al Davis doesn’t blitz” crowd
August 9th, 2010 at 9:27 am
I think we are going to see A LOT of 3 man DLines.
I also think we are going to see a lot of 6 DBs with 3 CBs and 3 Safeties.
***
from Jwigg (above): sorry I assumed that if we played some 3-2-6 we’d also play some 3-4
3-2-6 would even be worse!
August 9th, 2010 at 9:28 am
Jwigg: Again, before you start laughing your behind off … who is going to anchor this so-called “3 man line” ???
August 9th, 2010 at 9:31 am
A few of us here want to make a fund for Mitchell to be used to help pay his fines. We are calling it: The Mitchell (Hit Like Tatum) Fund. We gave it that name to also honor Tatum (RIP), his Family, and our tradition & history.
So far we have:
Buckeyeraider
BHP
R8
Raccoon
Hendu
Raider O
Who else would like to contribute to this fund?
August 9th, 2010 at 9:31 am
You said the same things about Warren last year, and he was cut! I think your DL evaluation skills are as good as my LB evaluation skills.
Frantz Joseph is the next Ray Lewis!
***
Raider O: Jwigg is gonna find a way to twist it and mix it with a bunch of laughter to try and prove that Warren & Kelly were capable DT’s because of double teams or # of tackles or the former MLB
Did the same thing with JaWalrus … but it’s ok. He’s still cool in my book
August 9th, 2010 at 9:33 am
Raider O: Mike Mitchell is a millionaire, isn’t he?
let the man pay his own fines. he’s a backup and special teams guy right now anyways
they’re making him the 3rd safety or putting him at OLB to try and get him on the field, but he’s not stealing any snaps from Huff or Branch!
August 9th, 2010 at 9:36 am
I know i know, from wikipedia, but the term NT is still applicable in a 4-3. It may not be strictly related to 0-technique found in 3-4, but it’s the term used to describe the role of the weakside DT.
————
4-3
In a traditional 4-3 defensive set, the nose tackle is one of two defensive tackles, usually on the weak side of the offensive line. His job is to take up the center and weak-side or pulling guard so that the smaller ‘rush’ end has a 1-on-1 matchup with the offense’s blindside tackle. The second defensive tackle sometimes referred to as an ‘under tackle’, takes up the strongside guard and the strongside end takes up the strongside offensive tackle. More modern, cover 2 schemes include either four smaller, athletic linemen, like Tony Dungy’s scheme, developed in Tampa Bay; or two small, athletic ends and two nose tackles, like the scheme used by the Baltimore Ravens during their 2000 championship season.
3-4
In a 3-4 defensive scheme, the nose tackle is the sole defensive tackle, lining up directly opposite the center in the “0-technique” position. Like the traditional 4-3, the nose tackle must occupy the center and one guard, however in the 3-4 it is typically the strongside guard. One defensive end then matches up with both the strongside tackle and tight end, while the other occupies the weakside guard and tackle. This leaves the outside linebackers free to pass-rush, creating the 3-4 scheme’s distinctive pressure on the passing game.
In order for a 3-4 to be effective, it needs a dominant nose tackle, which is very hard to find. Ted Washington, who in his prime weighted around 400 pounds, is considered the prototypical 3-4 nose tackle of this era. Because of nose tackles’ ability to block two offensive linemen, they are more than often selected to the Pro Bowl, but usually as regular defensive tackles, making their ability more useful. Dominant nose tackles of today are names such as Vince Wilfork, Casey Hampton, Haloti Ngata, Jay Ratliff and Jamal Williams among others.
———–
August 9th, 2010 at 9:37 am
my point exactly.
and the main reason for that (imo) is due to the fact that we don’t have a guy capable of playing NT in the 3-4 … well and then theres the whole “Al Davis doesn’t blitz” crowd
********************************
All right, an argreement, lol!!!!
And on the whole blitz thing, we started blitzing more last year, simply because we added MM34 who IS our best blitzer outside of when Scott was coming in as a LB.
Kirk and Howard were terrible at it, so why do it? Think that had more to do with the lack of blitzing than anything else. You think Rob Ryan, the blitz-happy egomaniac, wouldn’t have done what he wanted because of anything other than it would have made his defense look worse? Not me.
August 9th, 2010 at 9:40 am
O,
I’m not giving you greedy bankers any of my money!!!
Do we get an interest rate on it? Are you going to use it to leverage anything?
What happens when BOO goes into insolvency?
August 9th, 2010 at 9:40 am
What happens when BOO goes into insolvency?
***
LOL!
August 9th, 2010 at 9:41 am
Examples…
Why is it called a touchdown if the player doesn’t actually touch the ball down as in Rugby?
Why is the Fullback called a Fullback and a Halfback a Halfback, when in actuality the “Fullback” is half the way back from the Center, the QB a quarter of the way back, and the Halfback actually all the way (full) back?
There are many other instances of misnomers for terms, or just terms borrowed across schemes.
The point anyway is that no teams don’t have to have a NT block-eating DT in a 4 man line. But if you want to be a good run-stuffing team and that helps your MLB not hinders him, then you should have an immovable force at NT (or weakside DT).
Unless you have two beastly good 3-tech type DTs playing both strong and weak who can not only rush the pass but also stuff the run.
Either way you look at the role of the weak-side DT, Kelly has been ineffective. Whether he’s being used as a “NT” or as a 3-tech weakside DT.
August 9th, 2010 at 9:41 am
Its not already vegas?
August 9th, 2010 at 9:45 am
on the whole blitz thing, we started blitzing more last year, simply because we added MM34 who IS our best blitzer outside of when Scott was coming in as a LB.
***
John Marshall was afraid of getting into trouble with Coach Davis after that Philly game, wasn’t he?
at least he said that to the media anyways … not sure why he would say that though
on a different topic entirely:
Saw some kid at church last night wearing a Big Ben jersey. not sure how I feel about that one. if I was his dad I’d probably jut make him wear that one inside on game days. some little kid wearing a r@pists jersey looks funny. kind of eery
August 9th, 2010 at 9:47 am
Do you feel the same as kids wearing Kobe’s jersey?
Big Ben and Kobe are peas in a pod on this one, although Kobe actually had charges pressed.
August 9th, 2010 at 9:51 am
Big Ben and the “church” = perfect for each other!!
August 9th, 2010 at 9:52 am
Do you feel the same as kids wearing Kobe’s jersey?
***
Yes. but I’m also a Laker-hater so it’s hard for me to give an unbiased opinion
don’t like Kobe even if he gets traded
don’t like any player wearing a Laker jersey
just the way that it is bro
August 9th, 2010 at 9:54 am
Big Ben and the “church” = perfect for each other!!
***
JFB: sounds like your experience with church is much different than mine!
August 9th, 2010 at 9:57 am
Just screwing with things Rock, “do you” as the kids today say.
I’m too cynical and fact-based (or at least try to be) for that type of stuff.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:02 am
Wonder if Jerry is going to Dallas?
August 9th, 2010 at 10:04 am
Who do we guess is going to return kicks/punts?
Don’t even know if Ford is going to healthy enough. Nick Miller will certainly get a chance, they may trot out JLH for a punt or two for him to screw up, and Yamon seems more geared for kickoffs.
Maybe we can bring back Gary Russell for one last trip down memory lane.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:05 am
7 pence for the official retribution of the mose.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:08 am
Jwigg: I know you like to smoke out, but seriously?
—————————————————–
Remember Lakota was talking about folks running outta material ….
Ehhh, nevermind.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:09 am
Btw, for those interested in gaps and techniques, here’s a nice link…
http://www.coachwyatt.com/tips51-75.html
August 9th, 2010 at 10:11 am
Speaking of smoking (or lack thereof), I think I am over 50 days on the wagon.
Never would have thought it was possible.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:12 am
nice Fire im on day 4
August 9th, 2010 at 10:15 am
Let me restate the original POINT I made.
I wonder how the defensive line is going to shake out?
I think we are going to see A LOT of Mike Mitchell WITH Huff AND Branch.
Who comes off the field when we go with that lineup?
Scott?
Wimbley?
More likely someone from the Dline with Scott or Wimbley moving to “DE”.
I think I also said I expect to see a lot of 4 man lines week 1 since Tenn plays a lot of 2 TE.
Who this got turned into a who’s going to play NT in a 3-4 defense? Typical read between the lines/propoganda BS!
August 9th, 2010 at 10:15 am
they may trot out JLH for a punt or two for him to screw up
***
LOL!
not taking the bait …
August 9th, 2010 at 10:15 am
The first ten days, I thought I was going crazy.
Weird dreams, hot flashes, no sleep, no appetite. Quite the MthrFckr.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:16 am
When Mitchell is on the field, we may have go with the 3 man line, because he will be rushing the passer most of the time anyways.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:17 am
GG,
I think the way you said it best so EVERYONE should be able to understand is weakside gap DT and strondside gap DT.
I think you nailed it with that one.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:19 am
Yamon Figurs will not make the team.
I just can’t see him being the #6 WR.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:19 am
today is my worst day so far over the weekend not to bad I was surprised that on Saturday cuz I drank alot of beer while watching the ufc fight and didnt crave a cig. but right now I really want one so im eating a zip-tie while at work trying to get my mind off it
August 9th, 2010 at 10:20 am
If Yamon (love the name) houses a KO or two, he could back-door his way as a KR, a la Justin Miller.
Extremely unlikely however.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:24 am
Everytime I see Yamon Figurs I think of the old In Living Colour skit.
How many job you have? 8 job!!! Yeah’mon!!
August 9th, 2010 at 10:24 am
You said the same things about Warren last year, and he was cut! I think your DL evaluation skills are as good as my LB evaluation skills.
Frantz Joseph is the next Ray Lewis!
——————————————————-
What did I say about Warren last year?
Other than the LBs and DEs were more of a problem than the DTs?
As far as my Dline evaluation skills, I said Seymour should replace Warren at DT and he did. Told you Matt S was the man and would start and DE, and well, whudda ya no. Last I checked, Kelly is still starting, and Houston is right where he should be.
Very happy with our Dline INCLUDING John Henderson and especially Bryant.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:28 am
Who do we guess is going to return kicks/punts?
***
if Jacoby Ford can’t go, I think this is who we’ll see at Dallas
KR: Miller, Cartwright
PR: Higgins, Figurs
Shaun Bodiford on both, maybe?
August 9th, 2010 at 10:30 am
Just Fire Baby Says:
August 9th, 2010 at 10:16 am
When Mitchell is on the field, we may have go with the 3 man line, because he will be rushing the passer most of the time anyways.
——————————————————-
Of course we will have to go with a 3 man line. Huff and Branch are not coming off the field and I don’t see Wimbley or Scott coming off either.
That’s why I say I can’t wait to see how the Dline rotation shakes out.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:30 am
Instead of using headphones or faking phone conversation, Langston Walker’s no-autograph ploy _ plastic bags over both hands wrapped in tape
***
LOL!
I should try this at work …
August 9th, 2010 at 10:34 am
When Mitchell is on the field, we may have go with the 3 man line
***
3-4-4 or 3-3-5 or 3-2-6 ??? doesn’t matter
it all adds up to 11 with only 3 boys up front and none of them are nose tackles …
August 9th, 2010 at 10:38 am
Vegas I am at 8 months 9 days without a cig… longest lasting resolution ever! At this point cigerettes smell so awful I cant see myself ever going back. I do get the urge every now and again while I am drinking, but when I smell them it goes right away
August 9th, 2010 at 10:39 am
I like the look of our defense and the personnel, but I don’t think we have to change from a base 4-3 to apply pressure or confuse an offense. look how many guys can play multiple positions. look how many natural pass rushers
August 9th, 2010 at 10:40 am
I was talking about the funky smoke, but I hear cigs are harder.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:41 am
3-4-4 or 3-3-5 or 3-2-6 ??? doesn’t matter
it all adds up to 11 with only 3 boys up front and none of them are nose tackles …
——————————————————-
Didn’t matter last year, we still ran those set a lot.
We have some pretty big LBs who can crowd gaps and disrupt the LOS. No one is saying that you’ll see a “3 man line” against a run formation so to speak. Like I said earlier, you will see a traditional 4 man line against the 2 TE set and formations like that.
But a lot of teams have 3WRs on the field more of often that not. Not too many pound the rock teams out there. Especially when you are losing.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:42 am
I am at 8 months 9 days without a cig
***
BCZ: RMR has you beat!
35 years without a lay
August 9th, 2010 at 10:44 am
Especially when you are losing.
************************
I like the confidence
August 9th, 2010 at 10:44 am
Not too many pound the rock teams out there.
***
…until they play Oakland
August 9th, 2010 at 10:44 am
I don’t think we have to change from a base 4-3 to apply pressure or confuse an offense.
——————————————————-
Not really about that.
Quite simply, I believe Mike Mitchell is going to play and they are going to find a way to get him on the field
Same with Scott and Wimbley.
I think a DL comes off the field when Mitchell comes in.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:45 am
I like the confidence
—————————————————-
11-5!
August 9th, 2010 at 10:46 am
I like the confidence
***
we’re all confident when Russell is off the team and Gradkowski is on the bench!
Go Campbell
August 9th, 2010 at 10:46 am
I can’t see the logic in replacing a D-lineman for MM34 on 1st and Ten, or 3rd and 2.
Running plays, he may come in for Huff, and rotate Branch to FS.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:47 am
Gradkowski is on the bench!
******************************
Not taking the bait, lol
August 9th, 2010 at 10:48 am
If anything, Mitchell will come in as a linebacker on 3rd and long situations. Maybe that’s why they’re phasing out Howard.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:48 am
I think a DL comes off the field when Mitchell comes in.
***
taking Kelly, Seymour, Henderson or Bryant off the field to bring in another DB means it better be a passing play!
August 9th, 2010 at 10:49 am
…until they play Oakland
——————————————————
So you’re expecting this year’s team to be the same ole non threat on offense? When the other team scores, they can just sit on the ball?
I disagree.
I think our offense is going to avg 22 pts. I believe our Oline is going to be able to open some holes and convert some of those 3rd and 2s.
I think our secondary is much improved and will be able to get off the field on 3rd and longs better than they did last year.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:50 am
I think a DL comes off the field when Mitchell comes in.
***
taking Kelly, Seymour, Henderson or Bryant off the field to bring in another DB means it better be a passing play!
——————————————————
I didn’t say a DT comes off the field, did I?
August 9th, 2010 at 10:52 am
LMAO Vegas & RR!
-I don’t think Mitchell’s contract is in Millions.
-BOO doesn’t/ will not have any problems. We are backed up with Real Gold!!!!
August 9th, 2010 at 10:55 am
I can’t see the logic in replacing a D-lineman for MM34 on 1st and Ten, or 3rd and 2.
Running plays, he may come in for Huff, and rotate Branch to FS.
——————————————————-
Goes back to what you said about the preseason games. Going to be interesting to see how it shakes out.
I have the 3 safties playing A LOT together. Mike Mitchell will be much more than a 3rd down guy. How they get him on the field? Again, that’s my original question.
I think Scott or Wimbley drop down to DE to make room for Mitchell. Maybe Scott or Wimbley come out. But I’m pretty sure we will see Mitchell.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:56 am
teams KNOW that the Raiders haven’t been able to stuff the run for the better part of a decade … the run D will be tested early & often in most games, whether our offense scores 3 points or 23 points.
right now the projected “Top 3″ DT’s are guys that were on the team last year when we finished 29th against the run. shuffling guys around Seymour to DT, Kelly to NT, Scott to WLB doesn’t always yield the best results. don’t forget that with all the hype surrounding McClain, he’s still a rookie and he’ll make a few mistakes. may be a liability against the pass as well
August 9th, 2010 at 10:56 am
Vegas,
50 days!!!! That is a crime against humanity and your mind. End the suffering and come see Raider O!!
Smoke Session!!!!!
Legalize it!!!!
August 9th, 2010 at 10:57 am
MM34 will be on the field, but more than likely replacing a LB, as a hybrid type, on 3rd and longs, and/or replacing Huff on the short-yardage situations.
But again……I’m only a semi-pro, could be WAAAAY off.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:58 am
I didn’t say a DT comes off the field, did I?
***
Jwigg: please be patient with me, but I’ve never seen a 3 man line with 2 DT’s and 1 DE … have you?
August 9th, 2010 at 11:00 am
I think Scott or Wimbley drop down to DE to make room for Mitchell.
***
thus making it a 4 man line. gotcha
thanks for clearing that up Jwigg!
August 9th, 2010 at 11:01 am
RRS …
Matt S – Seymour – Henderson – Scott
Houston – Kelly – Seymour – Scott
August 9th, 2010 at 11:01 am
3rd downs:
ShoNasty-Seymour-Kelly-Houston
Wimbley-McClain-Mitch
Asomugha-Huff-Branch-Johnson
sweetness
August 9th, 2010 at 11:04 am
We need some real snaps to evaluate, this splitting hairs on 3 man/4 man D-lines and UT/NT/1-gap/3-gap/NG is getting exhausting!!!
August 9th, 2010 at 11:05 am
Mike Mitchell playing OLB on 3rd downs = kiss Thomas Howard goodbye
Sam Williams & Ricky Brown are good guys to have on special teams … Goethel backs up McClain at MLB and will play ST as well (basically replaced Ekejiuba)
August 9th, 2010 at 11:06 am
We need some real snaps to evaluate
***
JFB: you need to wait until Thursday to find out that i’m always right?
August 9th, 2010 at 11:06 am
3rd downs:
ShoNasty-Seymour-Kelly-Houston
Wimbley-McClain-Mitch
Asomugha-Huff-Branch-Johnson
sweetness
——————————————————
3rd downs?
What about 2nd and 15’s?
August 9th, 2010 at 11:07 am
Hopefully we can trade Thomas Howard. Along with a later-round draft pick for some offensive line help…
August 9th, 2010 at 11:07 am
No way I am quitting the green and sticky… unthinkable.
August 9th, 2010 at 11:09 am
I mean Tom Howard is almost gone anyways right?
Not even running with 2nd team Nickle? What is that mean? 3rd team Nickle, LOL.
August 9th, 2010 at 11:10 am
Hopefully we can trade Thomas Howard. Along with a later-round draft pick for some offensive line help…
***
We should trade Nick Miller, Stanford Routt & Thomas Howard to Baltimore in exchange for Jared Gaither
August 9th, 2010 at 11:11 am
What is a 2nd team nickle? Isnt a Nickle just refering to any formation a 5th DB? Do we HAVE a whole 2nd team Nickle, or just a “2nd team” nickleback… aka a Dime back
August 9th, 2010 at 11:13 am
The sight of a 6-foot-8 center could be a little comical. We’d swear 6-foot Raiders backup quarterback Bruce Gradkowski was bouncing as he dropped back to pass the other day, trying to get a look past rookie Jared Veldheer up front.
Veldheer, Oakland’s third-round pick out of Hillsdale College (Mich.), might be the team’s left tackle of the future, but he’s learning how to play center at training camp. He played a little center in high school and scoffs at the notion that he might be too big to hike the quarterback the ball and then stand in front of him.
“You’re never too big, too small, too fat, too skinny to play anything,” he said. “If you can play a spot, you can play a spot.”
Coach Tom Cable says the 315-pound Veldheer is a unique species.
“He’s cut different,” Cable said. “He’s a long-bodied, short-legged guy, so he’s really closer to the ground than that 6-8 looks like.”
Veldheer would be the tallest center in the NFL, looming over Baltimore’s 6-6 Matt Katula, but he wouldn’t be the first extra-large center to wear the Silver and Black. Don Mosebar, who is 6-6, made the Pro Bowl three times in 13 years with the Raiders before losing vision in his eye after an inadvertent poke in a 1995 preseason scrimmage.
How soon, or if, Veldheer becomes the next Mosebar will be known once preseason games start. Cable said he won’t know if starter Samson Satele should start sweating until Cable sees the rookie in action.
“That’s an exciting young lineman,” said Cable, who likes the idea of Veldheer locking up with huge defensive tackles. “He’s got a tremendous future. I’m anxious to watch him play, to be quite honest with you.”
Veldheer was a little surprised at the move.
“It’s been going well,” he said, “I have been getting used to the switch from playing on the outside to playing on the inside. It’s a little different mentality. You have to make the calls and set your offensive line. You have to know your stuff.”
Veldheer, who didn’t give up a sack in college until an All-Star Game after his senior season, will know the blocking schemes so well that he could even play guard.
“If you know left tackle and you know center, you’re probably going to know what your guards are doing, too,” he said. “You can step in and fill any spot on the line if there’s ever a problem.”
-Vittorio Tafur (SF Gate)
August 9th, 2010 at 11:13 am
Gaither? We dont have enough time to teach him how to give up sacks, poorly run block, and get a bunch of false start penalties… aka, ZoneBlock
August 9th, 2010 at 11:14 am
Gaither visits back specialist, Harbaugh says it’s not serious
Posted by Gregg Rosenthal on August 7, 2010 5:49 PM ET
If Ravens tackle Jared Gaither was a little more well known, his training camp odyssey might be receiving a post every morning, like a certain Redskins player less than an hour away.
There’s been no shortage of topics to write about. Gaither has been bothered by a mysterious bad back, and the Ravens had him take blood tests to try to explain his sudden and unwanted 29-pound weight loss.
The drama continued Saturday with Gaither visiting a back specialist, while coach John Harbaugh down played the injury.
“I have not heard the report on that yet, other than to hear it’s not serious, it doesn’t look like,” Harbaugh said. “It’s just something he’s got to fight through. It’s unfortunate because he’s competing for that spot and you’ve got to stack practices. That’s what the competition’s all about.”
Our coach translator says that means: “You better get back to practice fast or I’ll bench you and that will cost you money.”
August 9th, 2010 at 11:14 am
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/object/article?f=/c/a/2010/08/07/SPN71EQGD3.DTL&o=0
JV = BEAST!
August 9th, 2010 at 11:18 am
Veldheer handling TK
BEAST Campbell holding his own with Big John
Get these rooks in the lineup!
August 9th, 2010 at 11:19 am
Gaither? We dont have enough time to teach him how to give up sacks, poorly run block, and get a bunch of false start penalties… aka, ZoneBlock
***
LOL! very true
put him at RG instead of Carlisle or Loper
August 9th, 2010 at 11:20 am
Those rooks will get a lot of in T-minus 79 hours.
If Gallery doesn’t start who replaces him? Khalif? Or do they slide Cooper over and start Bruce, or just start Bruce at RG?
I almost want Bob to sit this one out to see!!
August 9th, 2010 at 11:20 am
BEAST Campbell holding his own
***
Who ???
August 9th, 2010 at 11:20 am
If we brought in Gaither you have to think SuperMario loses his spot immediately
August 9th, 2010 at 11:21 am
Meant LG…..sure you could figure what I meant.
August 9th, 2010 at 11:22 am
I almost want Bob to sit this one out to see!!
—————————————————-
Bob ????
LOL!
Yeah, I can’t see him playing more than one series. The rooks are going to get A LOT of work.
August 9th, 2010 at 11:22 am
If Gallery doesn’t start who replaces him? Khalif? Or do they slide Cooper over and start Bruce, or just start Bruce at RG?
***
Barnes is at LG after Gallery. then probably Pears, Loper or Morris – not 5 year starting RG Cooper Carlisle
August 9th, 2010 at 11:27 am
1st team: Henderson-Gallery-Satele-Carlisle-Walker
2nd team: Veldheer-Barnes-Morris-Campbell-Pears
3rd team: Loper-Parsons-Veldheer-Rodd-Smith
August 9th, 2010 at 11:29 am
at Dallas (minus Gallery)
1st team: Henderson-Barnes-Satele-Carlisle-Walker
2nd team: Veldheer-Loper-Morris-Campbell-Pears
3rd team: Campbell-Parsons-Veldheer-Rodd-Smith
Jwigg is right. I think the rooks will see plenty of action after the starters take a seat
August 9th, 2010 at 11:30 am
3rd team RG… #60 BCZ24! Yup. I am walking on this year. I will be starting next year once I get my 30yo body back into football shape.
August 9th, 2010 at 11:32 am
test to see if the use of the word clinton gets your comments moderated…
August 9th, 2010 at 11:33 am
so if you use 0bama on this blog comment will be moderated..
August 9th, 2010 at 11:34 am
Thec07 Says: Your comment is awaiting moderation.
August 9th, 2010 at 11:27 am
Just Fire Baby Says:
August 9th, 2010 at 9:40 am
O,
I’m not giving you greedy bankers any of my money!!!
Do we get an interest rate on it? Are you going to use it to leverage anything?
What happens when BOO goes into insolvency?
++++++++++++++++=
The BOO will get bail out money from 0bama…
August 9th, 2010 at 11:35 am
Thats ok Thec… I think Zero-bama is more realistic anways. Zero Hope Zero Change Vote Zero-bama
August 9th, 2010 at 11:37 am
The best shirt I have seen was one with the fancy O graphic that BO used in his campaign, with a L before and after it.
LOL!!
August 9th, 2010 at 11:37 am
Veldheer is either really good, the org does not beleive satele, and morris can get it done, or we are just adding depth…
August 9th, 2010 at 11:47 am
Colt wont even make the team.
August 9th, 2010 at 11:47 am
Center is obviously our weakness on the OLine.
August 9th, 2010 at 12:03 pm
new post!
August 10th, 2010 at 12:21 am
Recommend all of you a good website sell jerseys of all famous teams jersey-boys
August 10th, 2010 at 5:50 am
[...] Brennan grew up in Southern California and was actually a Raiders fan. “I grew up in Southern California , my dad had Raiders tickets growing up. I was looking at my helmet the other day right before I put it on and I was thinking it’s kind of wierd but it’s also kind of cool to be putting on the Silver and Black”, Brennan told the ContraCostaTimes.com [...]