McFadden, Ford, Huff not practicing
By Steve Corkran
Wednesday, December 21st, 2011 at 11:51 am in Oakland Raiders.
With less than 72 hours before a must-win game, the odds are dwindling of the Raiders getting back running back Darren McFadden, wide receiver Jacoby Ford and free safety Michael Huff for Saturday’s game.
All three players are not at practice today, though Huff is working with a team trainer on an adjacent field. It’s difficult to imagine any of the three making it back in time to help the Raiders against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Through it all, coach Hue Jackson is holding out hope of at least one of the aforementioned trio coming back. At this point, it appears as if he’s hoping against hope.
Jackson is big on not playing players who don’t practice in the run up to a game. Therefore, there’s only one more practice left for McFadden, Ford and Huff to show that they are healthy enough to play.
Same goes for defensive tackle John Henderson, who remains unable to practice because of a sore knee.
On the bright side, backup running back Taiwan Jones is practicing for the second straight day, and he appears ready for some action after missing the past four games with a hamstring injury.
Quarterback Jason Campbell has been throwing in recent days in his recovery from a broken right collarbone. However, he has not been spotted doing anything at practice since he got injured Oct. 16.
Jackson said it’s possible that Campbell will be healthy enough to backup Carson Palmer before season’s end. That, too, appears to be wishful thinking.
At this rate, it’s safe to assume that Campbell has played his last down as a Raider. He is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent after this season and there’s almost no conceivable way that he will be asked back, or that he even would want to come back after being replaced by Palmer.
Bryan McCann is returning kicks at practice. This, despite Jackson talking up Tyvon Branch as if he is the second coming of Gale Sayers as a returner.
Follow me on Twitter: @corkonthenfl
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December 21st, 2011 at 11:53 am
Point is your looking with hindsight, which is always 20/20.
Rogers was a 1st round bust coming off a horrible career, hence the cheap contract he signed.
December 21st, 2011 at 11:53 am
I think Hue was a good soldier when Al was still with us. As soon as Al died, Hue changed. After the Texans game the he almost gave away, taking about how much he loved that man. Really? Love? Hue only worked for him for what 2 years. The guy likes the bright lights. He has turned himself into a buffoon. The fact that Hue still won’t admit that he blew the 2 point conversion call after the Curry touchdown is downright disturbing. Basic math. The fact that he admits that he unaware that Tyvon Branch returns kicks??? It is his job to know. It is not his job to do ESPN interviews getting his nails done. Al knew what all his players did in Pop Warner. This team misses Al. My biggest problem with Hue is that he acts like he’s won something. Hue ain’t won $hit. Hue is a poor man’s Rex Ryan. A lot of talk but not a lot of winning. The clown needs to go.
Just Win Baby.
December 21st, 2011 at 11:54 am
Chris in NY Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 11:54 am
aig-raiders Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 11:44 am
Was talking to an Eagles fan last nite and he considered Nnamdi as having a rough year. Stan Routt gives up almost twice as many TD’s and Raider fans think he is outstanding. No wonder why we suck year in and out.
——————————————
According to Josh Dubow Nnamdi has only allowed 16 completions through 14 games for a total of 285 yards. I think your friend needs to get a grip. Those are typical Nnamdi numbers from the last several years with the Raiders. What does he expect?
True, Nnamdi does not collect many INTs because he blankets his man rather than trying to bait opposing QBs into throwing picks. However, the Eagles are also leading the league in sacks despite not having a dominant pass rusher. How much of that can be attributed to coverage sacks induced at least in part by Nnamdi?
December 21st, 2011 at 11:55 am
Routt’s problem is making a play on the ball, thats why the TD #’s are high.
His coverage is top tier.
December 21st, 2011 at 11:57 am
If Nnamdi would have been more patient we would be a lock for the playoffs right now.
December 21st, 2011 at 11:59 am
Rogers was a 1st round bust coming off a horrible career, hence the cheap contract he signed.
——————-
Rogers was never horrible. Bad hands, but for the last few seasons was far and away the best CB on the Redskins.
Nnamdi was never offered a contract by Al, and wasn’t going to be offered a contract by Al.
CBs whose coverage is top tier don’t give up 7 TDs.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:00 pm
I don’t think anyone was expecting DMC back this week or probably even next. The question is: Can he go if we get in?
December 21st, 2011 at 12:03 pm
This Defense definitely lost a lot when Shaughnessy got hurt. Not enough has been made of this. He was playing very good football before the injury.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:03 pm
Food for thought when comparing Carson Palmer and JC, courtesy of a Vittorio Tafur article:
Bush has 841 yards on 214 carries (3.9 average) this season, not to mention 381 yards receiving, but former Raiders running back Marcus Allen said defenses can cheat against the pass with Bush taking the ball instead of McFadden.
Bush “just doesn’t have the explosiveness” and ability to hit the edge that McFadden does, Allen told NationalFootballAuthority.com.
“McFadden, before he was injured, was a legitimate threat to score on every play,” Allen said. “He can go the distance on any play, and that’s what defenses have to pay a lot of attention to. Anytime you have a threat like that back there, you usually put eight in the box, which opens up the passing game.”
Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/12/20/SPUQ1MF18H.DTL#ixzz1hCDrhWV7
December 21st, 2011 at 12:03 pm
# Dr. Hunter S. Thompson Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 11:53 am
I think Hue was a good soldier when Al was still with us. As soon as Al died, Hue changed. After the Texans game the he almost gave away, taking about how much he loved that man. Really? Love? Hue only worked for him for what 2 years. The guy likes the bright lights. He has turned himself into a buffoon. The fact that Hue still won’t admit that he blew the 2 point conversion call after the Curry touchdown is downright disturbing. Basic math. The fact that he admits that he unaware that Tyvon Branch returns kicks??? It is his job to know. It is not his job to do ESPN interviews getting his nails done. Al knew what all his players did in Pop Warner. This team misses Al. My biggest problem with Hue is that he acts like he’s won something. Hue ain’t won $hit. Hue is a poor man’s Rex Ryan. A lot of talk but not a lot of winning. The clown needs to go.
Just Win Baby.
=================================================
Hard to argue with this. My point was under Cable we got better each year, his teams played hard in the end, and in his last year, we were never out of games in the lst 20 minutes. Jackson took over a team that had a lot of positive momentum and better personnel, and we have to win both our remaining games to improve. If not for a couple of lucky plays, Jackson could have turned a team going into the right direction right back into a 5-11 team with arguably better personnel. That ain’t good.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:04 pm
# John David Booty Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:03 pm
This Defense definitely lost a lot when Shaughnessy got hurt. Not enough has been made of this. He was playing very good football before the injury.
===================================
Thank you.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:05 pm
DeuceDeuce Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 11:57 am
If Nnamdi would have been more patient we would be a lock for the playoffs right now.
—————
Al never intended to bring him back. he never gave him a contract.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:06 pm
Shaughnessy should be the starting LDE next season, across from Mario Williams at RDE.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:06 pm
Weekly Economic Summary –
December 21, 2011
Last week in review
(December 12 – 16, 2011)
Not only was last week’s Initial Jobless Claims reading of 366,000 the lowest level since May of 2008, there was a double dose of good news in the manufacturing sector, as both the Philadelphia Fed Index and the Empire State Index were both well above expectations. Normally, good economic news causes money to move out of bonds and into stocks as investors like to take advantage of gains and this would typically hurt home loan rates, as they are tied to mortgage bonds.
=========================================
Where is Jamista Clown? He must be the only one campaigning for Newt Gingrich in Iowa.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:07 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 11:59 am
Rogers was a 1st round bust coming off a horrible career, hence the cheap contract he signed.
——————-
Rogers was never horrible. Bad hands, but for the last few seasons was far and away the best CB on the Redskins.
Nnamdi was never offered a contract by Al, and wasn’t going to be offered a contract by Al.
CBs whose coverage is top tier don’t give up 7 TDs.
_________________________________________________
And THERE is the argument, and THAT is what is keeping Routt from being one of the best. In terms of coverage, there are not many CB’s better than Routt. He can flat out cover. In those regards, he is TOP TIER. However, what prevents him from being top tier CB is everything else. He doesnt make plays. In fact, Routt is very one dimensional, in that all he actually can do is COVER. So you take the good with the bad, I’ll take Routts supreme coverage skills.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:07 pm
John David Booty Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:03 pm
This Defense definitely lost a lot when Shaughnessy got hurt. Not enough has been made of this. He was playing very good football before the injury.
—
Didn’t his injury also affect DT rotation.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:07 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:06 pm
Shaughnessy should be the starting LDE next season, across from Mario Williams at RDE.
—————————————
That would be pretty fierce.
Don’t think there’s any way Hou lets MW walk though.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:10 pm
aig-raiders Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:05 pm
DeuceDeuce Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 11:57 am
If Nnamdi would have been more patient we would be a lock for the playoffs right now.
—————
Al never intended to bring him back. he never gave him a contract.
—-
He would have been on a long term contract 2 years prior to this past free agency.
Thats why I said if he would have been patient.. He would have signed the long term contract he was seeking, but with us.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:11 pm
Chris in NY Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:07 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:06 pm
Shaughnessy should be the starting LDE next season, across from Mario Williams at RDE.
—————————————
That would be pretty fierce.
Don’t think there’s any way Hou lets MW walk though.
—-
Not a snow balls chance in hell.
Not even worth mentioning. He will be franchised at the least.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:13 pm
Don’t think there’s any way Hou lets MW walk though.
—-
Not a snow balls chance in hell.
Not even worth mentioning. He will be franchised at the least.
——————————————————
Agreed.
Not sure why YA keeps mentioning Williams.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:15 pm
With less than 72 hours before a must-win game,
===================================================
Actually I think the must win games started three weeks ago….
December 21st, 2011 at 12:15 pm
Gale Sayers? No one said that Steve.
Hue did his home work and saw that Branch returned 6 kicks fumble one and got injured and lost time because of it.
Cable tried him back there and he looked freaked out.
Branches indecision on the goal shows hes not ready but it stuttered the D long enough for him to break contain and for Boyd to continue to make a complete mockery of the chance hes been given.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:15 pm
For clarification.
Any 1st round pick that plays out his contract, never makes a Pro Bowl, is despised by the team fan base, is allowed to leave via free agency and signs a 1 year deal for 4 million with a team desperate for players at his position… is a BUST.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:17 pm
Teams will have a shot at Williams. Texan defense has proved more than capable of getting by without him. Nick Reed and Connor Barwin are having big seasons. Texans will be in play, but could also use the money to focus on other parts of the team.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:17 pm
J Hill Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:13 pm
Don’t think there’s any way Hou lets MW walk though.
—-
Not a snow balls chance in hell.
Not even worth mentioning. He will be franchised at the least.
——————————————————
Agreed.
Not sure why YA keeps mentioning Williams.
—-
I dont know why there are some fans that make these unrealistic statements. Really dont.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:17 pm
Did we let Nnamdi go because we knew we were going more diverse and more zone and Nnamdi’s a man specialist or did we go more diverse because Al passed on?
December 21st, 2011 at 12:18 pm
There is sure to be some shakeup in the Raider organization this offseason which can only be a good thing. I would the Raiders to bring Reggie McKenzie in here. That can only be a good thing. And changing the coaching staff can only be a good thing.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:19 pm
I dont know why there are some fans that make these unrealistic statements. Really dont.
====================================
You mean like: Campbell is just as good as Palmer? Or Palmer is not elite?
December 21st, 2011 at 12:19 pm
DeuceDeuce Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:15 pm
For clarification.
Any 1st round pick that plays out his contract, never makes a Pro Bowl, is despised by the team fan base, is allowed to leave via free agency and signs a 1 year deal for 4 million with a team desperate for players at his position… is a BUST.
—–
Not if he helps his next team become a contender.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:20 pm
Raiders defense needs a game-changer. No chance of picking one up in the draft. Need to make a big move in free agency if the Raiders want to improve while having to mostly stick with the same pieces they have this season.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:21 pm
We let Nnamdi go because he was too expensive.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:22 pm
silverback Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:19 pm
DeuceDeuce Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:15 pm
For clarification.
Any 1st round pick that plays out his contract, never makes a Pro Bowl, is despised by the team fan base, is allowed to leave via free agency and signs a 1 year deal for 4 million with a team desperate for players at his position… is a BUST.
—–
Not if he helps his next team become a contender.
—-
Well you open the door to a lot specifics that need to be addressed if your willing to have that opinion.
How much of a contribution? Is he a result of the system? etc..
But no matter how you try and slice it..to the team that drafted him, he is a BUST.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:22 pm
# GoodOle00 Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:17 pm
Did we let Nnamdi go because we knew we were going more diverse and more zone and Nnamdi’s a man specialist or did we go more diverse because Al passed on?
=====================================
We let Nnam go for a couple of reasons: lst off he was VERY expensive for a Right Corner. He did not play LC and never played left corner. Left Corner is a MUCH harder position to play. 2ndly, we never won with Nnam. I have said this before in here, there are winning players and there are losing players. They can be great great players, and they just don’t win, for whatever reason. I am not saying it definitively but Nnam might be one of those. Look at Phila right now.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:22 pm
I think we’ll be a big player in free agency considering we won’t be picking til the middle of day 2 of the draft.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:24 pm
LA to TheBay Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:21 pm
We let Nnamdi go because he was too expensive.
—-
I think we let him go because Al wanted to show Nnamdi that he’s not bigger than the Raiders. Remember Al will go that far to prove a point.
And hey, it kinda looks like Al was right. Nnamdi hasnt had his typical year for the most part.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:27 pm
LA to TheBay Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:22 pm
I think we’ll be a big player in free agency considering we won’t be picking til the middle of day 2 of the draft.
—-
Sadly, since Al’s passing we might have become a more attactive spot for free agents.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:30 pm
More than anything we need some proven football guys to come in here and take over the outstanding legacy of Davis and the Raiders. Getting McKenzie and keeping Saunders would be a good start.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:31 pm
WHAT !!! DMAC NOT PRACTICING..
December 21st, 2011 at 12:31 pm
Had we retained Nnamdi, Buffalo and Detroit games are wins. IMO
December 21st, 2011 at 12:35 pm
LA To TheBay Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:22 pm
I think we’ll be a big player in free agency considering we won’t be picking til the middle of day 2 of the draft.
—–
Some guys already here are going to need to restructure as well.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:36 pm
It’s time to purge some salary. TK is making $5 million next year to blow through gaps and ignore the running game. DMac will be paid $5 million next year to sit on the bench for 8 games while his team is trying to compete.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:36 pm
HairyBush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:31 pm
Had we retained Nnamdi, Buffalo and Detroit games are wins. IMO
—-
Agreed.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:37 pm
The members of The Vajayjay Brigade! Pu$$ies
December 21st, 2011 at 12:37 pm
Some guys already here are going to need to restructure as well.
========================================
Do you guys realize that Palmer restructured before he got here? Another sign of leadership.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:37 pm
HairyBush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:31 pm
Had we retained Nnamdi, Buffalo and Detroit games are wins. IMO
++++++++++++++
At least the Detroit game. He makes a play on at least one of those Megatron huge gainers.
If Philly thinks Nnamdi is so terrible, wonder what they’d want for him to come back?
December 21st, 2011 at 12:38 pm
Seymour Bush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:06 pm
Weekly Economic Summary –
December 21, 2011
Last week in review
(December 12 – 16, 2011)
Not only was last week’s Initial Jobless Claims reading of 366,000 the lowest level since May of 2008, there was a double dose of good news in the manufacturing sector, as both the Philadelphia Fed Index and the Empire State Index were both well above expectations. Normally, good economic news causes money to move out of bonds and into stocks as investors like to take advantage of gains and this would typically hurt home loan rates, as they are tied to mortgage bonds.
=========================================
Where is Jamista Clown? He must be the only one campaigning for Newt Gingrich in Iowa.
****************************************************
he’s backing a loosing team there also, Ron Paul is going to take Iowa
December 21st, 2011 at 12:38 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:36 pm
It’s time to purge some salary. TK is making $5 million next year to blow through gaps and ignore the running game. DMac will be paid $5 million next year to sit on the bench for 8 games while his team is trying to compete.
—-
Umm. Im asking Seymour to restructure waaaaaay before I even think about asking Kelly.
Palmer will have to restructure also.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:38 pm
Seymour Bush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:37 pm
Some guys already here are going to need to restructure as well.
========================================
Do you guys realize that Palmer restructured before he got here? Another sign of leadership.
—-
He restructured THIS years $. He goes back to 12 million next year.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:39 pm
Umm. Im asking Seymour to restructure waaaaaay before I even think about asking Kelly.
++++++++++++++
Most, if not all, of Seymour’s money is fully guaranteed if I’m not mistaken. My guess is he would tell the Raiders to go pound sand
December 21st, 2011 at 12:39 pm
SilverNBlackPA Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:37 pm
HairyBush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:31 pm
Had we retained Nnamdi, Buffalo and Detroit games are wins. IMO
++++++++++++++
At least the Detroit game. He makes a play on at least one of those Megatron huge gainers.
If Philly thinks Nnamdi is so terrible, wonder what they’d want for him to come back?
—-
I’ll do a McClain for Nnamdi straight up RIGHT NOW. lol..
December 21st, 2011 at 12:40 pm
c. cambell cards
landry redskins
mathis or osi colts/giants
grant s.f
4 defensive free agents to consider.
move Lamar inside
December 21st, 2011 at 12:40 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:36 pm
It’s time to purge some salary. TK is making $5 million next year to blow through gaps and ignore the running game.
=========================================
Kelly has really played well. And the reason Davis signed him to that big contract is now DT’s are making big money. $5mm a year for a Pro Bowl calibre DT is not that much. And as I have said for years, it is his job to get penetration and take on blockers. He is good at that. It is then the LB’s job to come in and clean up. They are terrible at that.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:40 pm
Seymour Bush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:37 pm
Some guys already here are going to need to restructure as well.
========================================
Do you guys realize that Palmer restructured before he got here? Another sign of leadership.
—-
I think he wouldn’t fit under the cap this year. But I was thinking more specifically guys on defense restructuring.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:40 pm
$7.5 million is a roster bonus for Seymour. The rest is his salary.
Raiders should do their damnedest to trade him before he can collect that roster bonus.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:41 pm
I’ll do a McClain for Nnamdi straight up RIGHT NOW. lol..
++++++++++++
You know, middle linebacker has been a problem spot for Philly this year….though I don’t think McClain is the answer to anyone’s MLB problem since he sure isn’t here.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:42 pm
SilverNBlackPA Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:37 pm
HairyBush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:31 pm
Had we retained Nnamdi, Buffalo and Detroit games are wins. IMO
++++++++++++++
At least the Detroit game. He makes a play on at least one of those Megatron huge gainers.
If Philly thinks Nnamdi is so terrible, wonder what they’d want for him to come back?
———————–
The Buffalo game is when CJ37 got torched every other play. If it was Nnamdi and Routt in the backfield we have a different outcome. Unfortunetley the point is moot. I do believe with out lack of draft picks we will go hard in free agency circa 2008. This time with better results. Who’s available for DB’s this year anyway?
December 21st, 2011 at 12:42 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:40 pm
$7.5 million is a roster bonus for Seymour. The rest is his salary.
Raiders should do their damnedest to trade him before he can collect that roster bonus.
+++++++++++++++
That’s a lot of money for some team to take on for a declining player.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:42 pm
We let Nnamdi go because he was too expensive.
—————————————————–
Al was not about to get caught up in Nnamdi’s agent’s BS.
20 million was the number being floated around.
No way Nnamdi’s agent wasn’t going to START the negotiations at the number Nnamdi was going to make if his contract wasn’t voided.
Nnamdi’s agent would have laughed at the 10 million Routt was offered. Especially at the end of last season.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:42 pm
Kelly has really played well. And the reason Davis signed him to that big contract is now DT’s are making big money. $5mm a year for a Pro Bowl calibre DT is not that much. And as I have said for years, it is his job to get penetration and take on blockers. He is good at that. It is then the LB’s job to come in and clean up. They are terrible at that.
—————
TK doesn’t take on blockers. He sheds blockers, allowing them to read the next level and neutralize an already-shaky back seven. He’s 30+, and wasn’t effective until he had Richard Seymour next to him. Both of them are gap penetrators, not guys who absorb blockers. Can’t stop the run consistently when your scheme is overpursuit by design.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:43 pm
SilverNBlackPA Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:39 pm
Umm. Im asking Seymour to restructure waaaaaay before I even think about asking Kelly.
++++++++++++++
Most, if not all, of Seymour’s money is fully guaranteed if I’m not mistaken. My guess is he would tell the Raiders to go pound sand
—-
22 of the 30 million is..
December 21st, 2011 at 12:43 pm
That’s a lot of money for some team to take on for a declining player.
———–
Raiders would probably have to swallow at least some of it.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:45 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:43 pm
That’s a lot of money for some team to take on for a declining player.
———–
Raiders would probably have to swallow at least some of it.
++++++++++++
If I’m not mistaken, the NFL CBA doesn’t allow teams to eat salary like the MLB does.
If they want to get rid of Seymour, they have 1 of 2 choices:
1) Trade him away for a 3rd or 4th round pick because any team that’s gonna pay that much money won’t want to give a 2nd rounder for him
2) Pay him the roster bonus and hope the cheaper monetary price tag can fetch a 2nd rounder
December 21st, 2011 at 12:45 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 11:50 am
Lions game he gets a pass. What about the previous games where he gave up 7 TDs?
———–
I just went over the NFL game highlights of every game the Raiders played this year. Here is Routt’s performance in the REDZONE.
–Routt gave up a quick slant TD vs Branch (pats)
–gave up another slant vs Walters (Houston)
–gave up a corner TD to Massaquoi (Cleveland)
–Gave up another corner TD to Bowe (Chiefs)
–and gave up a quick slant TD to Megatron.
That’s 5 TDs in the redzone. Sorry but an elite QB does not become a liability in the redzone. Facts proved it.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:45 pm
TK doesn’t take on blockers. He sheds blockers, allowing them to read the next level and neutralize an already-shaky back seven. He’s 30+, and wasn’t effective until he had Richard Seymour next to him. Both of them are gap penetrators, not guys who absorb blockers. Can’t stop the run consistently when your scheme is overpursuit by design
———————
intelligent
December 21st, 2011 at 12:45 pm
At some point Seymour becomes a role player like Henderson with commiserate salary. Would he rather retire? We’ll see.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:47 pm
Chris in NY Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 11:54 am
According to Josh Dubow Nnamdi has only allowed 16 completions through 14 games for a total of 285 yards. I think your friend needs to get a grip. Those are typical Nnamdi numbers from the last several years with the Raiders. What does he expect?
———–
Agreed 100% Chris. I told him we’d be glad to take him back for anyone on our D roster.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:47 pm
Dakota,
Branch = stud SS. Average CB playing outta position in Chuck B’s system.
Huff = decent player when healthy. Gave him a few extra points for wanting to come back.
Routt = very good corner. No Revis or Nnamdi though. But FAR from a scrub.
LBs = best we’ve had in years = all playing outta position in Chuck Bs scheme. Wimbley and Curry in coverage is LAUGHABLE!
DTs = getting old. Need to trade Kelly or Seymour and get some youth behind the 2 that remain.
DEs – love ShoNasty, but hate his apparent injury proness. I think Houston and Bryant would be PERFECT 3-4 DEs.
DC = absolute trash!
December 21st, 2011 at 12:47 pm
Some damn good free agents on this list (they actually have Tyvon Branch rated as the #36 prospective FA next year)
http://nfltraderumors.co/2012-nfl-free-agents/
Problem is, most teams have only 1 really top shelf guy, so he can be easily retained via the franchise tag
December 21st, 2011 at 12:48 pm
BTW, Routt is the least of the Raiders problem on defense. Much bigger fish to fry. Seriously.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:49 pm
DEs – love ShoNasty, but hate his apparent injury proness. I think Houston and Bryant would be PERFECT 3-4 DEs.
++++++++++
I’ve been screaming this from the rooftops for well over a year. Seymour was on a Hall of Fame pace playing most of his career as a 3-4 DE too, let’s not forget. Glad to see someone else agrees with me.
Seymour-NT-Houston
Wimbley-RoMac-ILB-Curry
Already have 5 of the necessary 7 pieces for a really solid 3-4 defense.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:50 pm
HairyBush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:48 pm
BTW, Routt is the least of the Raiders problem on defense. Much bigger fish to fry. Seriously.
————
He sure as heck is when he gave up 5 TDs in the redzone. What makes the 49ers D so effective this year is they dont give up TDs in the redzone. We do. You can point that finger squarely at one of our most expensive players.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:51 pm
Worth noting in regard to searching for a 3-4 NT that Aubrayo Franklin is a free agent next year and Josh Chapman out of Alabama could probably be had with the 3rd round comp pick we’re likely to get for Nnamdi (unless some team really falls in love)
December 21st, 2011 at 12:52 pm
aig-raiders Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:50 pm
HairyBush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:48 pm
BTW, Routt is the least of the Raiders problem on defense. Much bigger fish to fry. Seriously.
————
He sure as heck is when he gave up 5 TDs in the redzone. What makes the 49ers D so effective this year is they dont give up TDs in the redzone. We do. You can point that finger squarely at one of our most expensive players.
—-
How much of that is scheme? Other players not in their position, miscommunications.. etc. You cant just paint with that brush, there are other factors.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:53 pm
Just my opinion.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:53 pm
–Routt gave up a quick slant TD vs Branch (pats)
–gave up another slant vs Walters (Houston)
–gave up a corner TD to Massaquoi (Cleveland)
–Gave up another corner TD to Bowe (Chiefs)
–and gave up a quick slant TD to Megatron.
——————————————————
So Brady beat Routt on a quick slant, eh? Are you really saying that Routt should be able to stop Brady and his short routes?
Matt Cassell????
Dwayne Bowe????
Megatron????
Those are pretty good players man.
I could see your point if Routt was giving up 15-20 yd plays for TDs. Or getting beat deep.
But you are really nitpicking a corner, on an island, giving up a 5 yd pass completion?
Chicago game, off the top of my head. Chuck B calls an all out blitz leaves the middle of the field wide open and they get a TD on a slant to the exact area Chuck B blitzed from. You don’t take any of that stuff into account?
December 21st, 2011 at 12:53 pm
BTW, Great football talk today. Refreshing to talk football on a football blog for once lol.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:54 pm
Josh Chapman out of Alabama……..
——————————
Everything else was diregarded, LOL.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:54 pm
disregarded*
December 21st, 2011 at 12:54 pm
DeuceDeuce Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:53 pm
BTW, Great football talk today. Refreshing to talk football on a football blog for once lol.
————–
Uh oh.
Ya jinxed it.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:54 pm
How much of that is scheme? Other players not in their position, miscommunications.. etc. You cant just paint with that brush, there are other factors.
———————
Took the words out of my mouth. People have to see the whole picture, Not just what suits the defense of there arguement.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:54 pm
Bryan McCann is returning kicks at practice. This, despite Jackson talking up Tyvon Branch as if he is the second coming of Gale Sayers as a returner.
**********************************************
lol…Really funny Mr. Cork. I guess we needed a sense of humour to keep us positive about winning Saturday.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:54 pm
LA to TheBay Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:54 pm
Josh Chapman out of Alabama……..
——————————
Everything else was diregarded, LOL.
++++++++++++
A really good or really bad idea?
December 21st, 2011 at 12:55 pm
How much of that is scheme? Other players not in their position, miscommunications.. etc. You cant just paint with that brush, there are other factors.
—————————————————–
Exactly!
December 21st, 2011 at 12:55 pm
Exactly J Hill, like I said there are other factors.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:55 pm
DeuceDeuce Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:52 pm
How much of that is scheme?
—————-
Deuce,
I watched those hilites just now and he got beat on those plays. The corner throws are all one on one on Routt. The quick inside slant is tougher to defend. However, they could have slid a LB underneath to protect him. But then why do you need help if you are supposed to be a top tier CB and being paid so.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:55 pm
SilverNBlackPA
I saw ‘out of Alabama’ and just said fk that guy, LOL.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:56 pm
I’ve been screaming this from the rooftops for well over a year. Seymour was on a Hall of Fame pace playing most of his career as a 3-4 DE too, let’s not forget. Glad to see someone else agrees with me.
Seymour-NT-Houston
Wimbley-RoMac-ILB-Curry
Already have 5 of the necessary 7 pieces for a really solid 3-4 defense.
——————————————————
Right there with you!
December 21st, 2011 at 12:56 pm
LA to TheBay Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:55 pm
SilverNBlackPA
I saw ‘out of Alabama’ and just said fk that guy, LOL.
++++++++++
Hahahaha, not every Alabama guy is RoMac!
December 21st, 2011 at 12:57 pm
I’d take the same 11 guys on D and a few backups with a top notch D coordinator and I think the results would be phenomenal.
That being said, would rather have the top notch DC with an upgrade here and there.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:57 pm
Hahahaha, not every Alabama guy is RoMac!
——
Yeah, some aren’t that smart LOL.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:58 pm
SilverNBlackPA Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:47 pm
Some damn good free agents on this list (they actually have Tyvon Branch rated as the #36 prospective FA next year)
http://nfltraderumors.co/2012-nfl-free-agents/
Problem is, most teams have only 1 really top shelf guy, so he can be easily retained via the franchise tag
——————
A few guys on my wish list…
Lardarius Webb -Versatile and can return. (not to mention he comes from a defense with attitude)
Tracy Porter
If we lose Bush, Marshawn Lynch anyone? Bring him back to the bay area.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:58 pm
The other 2 TDs Routt gave up was the big bomb to Brown (SD) that Routt couldnt time his jump. The second one was the bomb that he got beat by Nelson in GB. Those are not schemes. Those are plays you got to make. None of them were cover 2 schemes that Routt was playing zone on. They were all one on ones and Routt simply can’t defend the slant or go up for the ball. We all know he plays the WR’s face.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:58 pm
aig-raiders Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:55 pm
DeuceDeuce Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:52 pm
How much of that is scheme?
—————-
Deuce,
I watched those hilites just now and he got beat on those plays. The corner throws are all one on one on Routt. The quick inside slant is tougher to defend. However, they could have slid a LB underneath to protect him. But then why do you need help if you are supposed to be a top tier CB and being paid so.
—-
Bro, with all due respect, Your saying that he should be able to defend a slant all by himself. Thats absurd.
D-Lineman are just as responsible for defending slants, they are supposed to knock them down.
LBs are supposed to fill the ‘areas’ when defending a slant.
Come on man. Its one thing to not like a player but..
December 21st, 2011 at 12:58 pm
Curry could also work as the other ILB in the 3-4 too….3-4 OLBs are much easier to find.
December 21st, 2011 at 12:59 pm
LA to TheBay Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:57 pm
I’d take the same 11 guys on D and a few backups with a top notch D coordinator and I think the results would be phenomenal.
That being said, would rather have the top notch DC with an upgrade here and there.
—-
Well said, and I couldnt agree more.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Lynch is probably oneof the more underrated backs in football, alot of contact behind the los and he still makes small gains out of them/ fella is a straight up beast.
no way he gets out of seattle
December 21st, 2011 at 1:01 pm
SilverNBlackPA Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:58 pm
Curry could also work as the other ILB in the 3-4 too….3-4 OLBs are much easier to find.
—-
Part of our problem is we have all these pass rushers and no one that can cover really. But for some reason Bresnehan has the pass rushers trying to cover..mind boggeling.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Peymour Bush, did you see Lechler drop that punt on the 1 yard line ?
Good thing he isn’t a “placement” kicker huh you dumb mfk’r!
December 21st, 2011 at 1:02 pm
Deuce,
I am no football expert but why are different teams consistently picking on Routt for the slant? It was the same play that teams consistently scored TDs on him and Detroit basically ran the same play. If I can see that weakness, i am 100% sure the team’s paid tape guy will see that. It seems teams come in here and know exactly the play to dial up when they are in the redzone. Defend Routt all you want but a top tier DB cannot have that scarlet letter written all over him.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:02 pm
aig-raiders Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:58 pm
The other 2 TDs Routt gave up was the big bomb to Brown (SD) that Routt couldnt time his jump. The second one was the bomb that he got beat by Nelson in GB. Those are not schemes. Those are plays you got to make. None of them were cover 2 schemes that Routt was playing zone on. They were all one on ones and Routt simply can’t defend the slant or go up for the ball. We all know he plays the WR’s face.
——————–
Sounds like you are seeking no less than a flawless game for him to be at your standard. Routt Is doing a good job and will only get better.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:02 pm
Ford is a broken down clunker!
The end
December 21st, 2011 at 1:02 pm
kvnbntly Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Lynch is probably oneof the more underrated backs in football, alot of contact behind the los and he still makes small gains out of them/ fella is a straight up beast.
no way he gets out of seattle
————
Read an article this morning and Lynch is falling in love with Cable and credited him for his success. I doubt he leaves Sea.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:03 pm
what about the guy they just promoted of the PS/ 6′7″ 255 4.8 40 could be another Ted Hendricks
December 21st, 2011 at 1:03 pm
aig-raiders Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:02 pm
Deuce,
I am no football expert but why are different teams consistently picking on Routt for the slant? It was the same play that teams consistently scored TDs on him and Detroit basically ran the same play. If I can see that weakness, i am 100% sure the team’s paid tape guy will see that. It seems teams come in here and know exactly the play to dial up when they are in the redzone. Defend Routt all you want but a top tier DB cannot have that scarlet letter written all over him.
—-
Obviously you didnt read what I wrote on defending a slant.
Your point you just made sounds like you should be mad at the man calling the plays more than the one trying to execute them.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:04 pm
kvnbntly Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Lynch is probably oneof the more underrated backs in football, alot of contact behind the los and he still makes small gains out of them/ fella is a straight up beast.
no way he gets out of seattle
—————–
I don’t see Seattle letting him go either. I sure wouldn’t mind beast mode in oaktown though.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:04 pm
MistaBrown Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:02 pm
Ford is a broken down clunker!
The end
—-
Any way we can get him to change his name to Jacoby Chevy?
December 21st, 2011 at 1:04 pm
on JOhnsons td Routt had excellent coverage, untill i suspect he saw Mcclain jump to bat the ball and tried to go underneath as the ball went overtop
December 21st, 2011 at 1:05 pm
Sounds like you are seeking no less than a flawless game for him to be at your standard. Routt Is doing a good job and will only get better.
————-
When you are the guy on your backfield that gave up 5 redzone TDs on basically 2 types of plays…a quick slant and a corner jump ball. Why arent they going after Sheppard? Because Sheppard doesnt have 5 redzone TDs given up. He’s a redzone liability and you guys are refusing to acknowledge that.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:06 pm
on JOhnsons long pass if bryant and kelly dont get tangled the pass rush gets there and no completion.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:06 pm
The Raiders are fine salary cap wise in 2012. They’ll be big players in free agency next season. The only coach that needs to bounce after this season is Breshnahan. The defense has been the problem all season, not the offense, except for a couple games and that was due to injuries. Hue has done a solid job considering all the adversity he’s faced this season. We’re still fighting for the playoffs. A lot of HC’s would’ve folded. Especially a rookie HC. Give the dude a break. He deserves another year. With a GM and a good DC, he’ll take us to the playoffs.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:06 pm
Bro, with all due respect, Your saying that he should be able to defend a slant all by himself. Thats absurd.
—————————————————–
Exactly.
Bowe and Megatron are getting paid too. If Routt jumps the slant, you really don’t think those guys are good enough to make the adjustment? Then you’d be sitting here talking about how Routt got beat over the top in the corner.
Tom Brady and Matt Schaub are pro bowl QBs. If Routt jumps that slant against them, then what?
Scheme is ridiculous!
December 21st, 2011 at 1:06 pm
kvnbntly Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:06 pm
on JOhnsons long pass if bryant and kelly dont get tangled the pass rush gets there and no completion.
—-
Or if Giordano isnt slow and out of position.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:07 pm
Deuce,
A top tier DB should not need help from the MLB. The MLB has to play the run and the QB. It’s obvious the opposing team saw this flaw and they dialed it up week after week. It started with NE and hasnt stopped yet.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:09 pm
The MLB has to play the run and the QB
++++++++++
As an aside, our MLB does neither!
December 21st, 2011 at 1:11 pm
So Brady beat Routt on a quick slant, eh? Are you really saying that Routt should be able to stop Brady and his short routes?
Matt Cassell????
Dwayne Bowe????
Megatron????
———-
Fine.
Even colt McCoy completed that slant to Massaquoi against Routt. So you got great QBs and a lousy QB completing that pass against him. Good WRs and a so so WR eating his lunch. What more do you want? 5 Redzone TD’s.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:12 pm
aig-raiders Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:07 pm
Deuce,
A top tier DB should not need help from the MLB. The MLB has to play the run and the QB. It’s obvious the opposing team saw this flaw and they dialed it up week after week. It started with NE and hasnt stopped yet.
—-
OK man.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:13 pm
Good chat today gents. Got to run. Later.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:14 pm
OK man.
—————————————————–
Agreed.
You’re dug in AIG.
No problem. You are entitled to your opinion mayne.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:17 pm
aig-raiders Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:05 pm
Sounds like you are seeking no less than a flawless game for him to be at your standard. Routt Is doing a good job and will only get better.
————-
When you are the guy on your backfield that gave up 5 redzone TDs on basically 2 types of plays…a quick slant and a corner jump ball. Why arent they going after Sheppard? Because Sheppard doesnt have 5 redzone TDs given up. He’s a redzone liability and you guys are refusing to acknowledge that.
——————
I’m not refusing to acknowledge anything. I watch every game, Usually several times. The stuff that gets me furious is when I see our LB’s constantly put in a bad position with various mismatches during any given game.
Routt’s upside and what he brings to the table every game by far exceeds some of the mistakes ie; being to aggresive sometime and drawing an unwanted penalty. I can assure you there has been miscommunications among other things that just happen during the course of the game.
Unfortunetley this seems to happen too often with the Raiders. Sometimes it is Chuck B’s fault, Sometimes it’s just because we never have the same 4 defensive backs playing due to numerous injuries. Routt is not perfect But he also is very low on the priority list when it comes to the numerous steps neccasary to have a solid defense.
Let’s start with bringing in Steve Spagnulo.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:18 pm
69.HairyBush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:48 pm
BTW, Routt is the least of the Raiders problem on defense. Much bigger fish to fry. Seriously.
++++++++++++++++++++
Well, that is probably true, but when you have a salary cap in play and a team that is right up against it, and you have a player like Routt who is clearly not living up to his salary, then you have to keep that in mind.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:18 pm
Bres hasn’t got fired yet ?
Hue, let go of your crank and fire that clown before both of you get the axe!
December 21st, 2011 at 1:19 pm
bstallion510 Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:06 pm
The Raiders are fine salary cap wise in 2012.
++++++++++++++
Link? Source?
December 21st, 2011 at 1:19 pm
Did you see Steve Smith torch Joseph this week?
Man, J. Joesph just isnt living up to that contract.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:20 pm
John Madden told Rich Gannon that the Raider Db’s play to Soft and just sat back and let the lions make plays… Madden called it ” That Zonie thing” .. As only Madden could say it…. About an Hour ago on Sirius Nfl Radio….
December 21st, 2011 at 1:21 pm
A question i’ve been asking all week, why the hell don’t the db’s wear white gloves and arm pieces at home. make it alot harder for the officials to see, or maybe they want to make sure the officials don’t just take for granted they are interfering.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:22 pm
My biggest concern about letting Nnamdi go was that Al would spend the next 5 drafts spending high picks trying to find the next Nnamdi.
Guess I do not have to worry about that now.
Now I just have to worry about Hue trading away more picks before someone finally puts the clamps on him. I like the Palmer trade, but we now need to keep the remaining picks we got.
Those compensatory picks for Gallery and Miller probably are not going to amount to much since they both sucked or missed time this year. We are a young team so a year of few picks will not kill us, but we can’t let Hue trade away the 2013 draft as well.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:24 pm
Dakota Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:18 pm
69.HairyBush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 12:48 pm
BTW, Routt is the least of the Raiders problem on defense. Much bigger fish to fry. Seriously.
++++++++++++++++++++
Well, that is probably true, but when you have a salary cap in play and a team that is right up against it, and you have a player like Routt who is clearly not living up to his salary, then you have to keep that in mind.
—————-
Salary cap is definetley part of the game and has to be considered. I look foward to next year when Chuch B is sitting on his couch eating harvest cheddar sun chips waiting for a call from the UFL. Only then will I Begin to be as hard on Routt as some others.
Spagnulo/Del Rio= defense improves by 30% right of the bat.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:25 pm
*off
December 21st, 2011 at 1:26 pm
CSNBayArea >> Branch to return kicks vs. Chiefs http://buzztap.com/-xEPM9A
December 21st, 2011 at 1:26 pm
I want whoever the new GM wants for DC..
December 21st, 2011 at 1:27 pm
Now I just have to worry about Hue trading away more picks
——————————————————
When did Hue become our GM?
December 21st, 2011 at 1:28 pm
the Palmer trade could actually work in Oaklands favor in the next couple years// instead of having to pay for two first round rookie picks they pay for one, and get $$$ to spend in FA
December 21st, 2011 at 1:29 pm
HairyBush Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:24 pm
—————-
Salary cap is definetley part of the game and has to be considered. I look foward to next year when Chuch B is sitting on his couch eating harvest cheddar sun chips waiting for a call from the UFL. Only then will I Begin to be as hard on Routt as some others.
Spagnulo/Del Rio= defense improves by 30% right of the bat
++++++++++++++++++
Yo, I agree with that. Biggest offseason move will be replacing Chucky B. Can’t replace an entire side of the ball, so you hope changing out the D-coordinator will make a major improvement.
But…..a new defensive coordinator probably can’t stop McClain from being a slow, lazy POS, or stop Seymour and Kelly from ignoring the run and going after the QB, or stop Routt from dry humping WRs after the five yard cutoff….but, you never know.
All we have is hope.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:32 pm
or stop Routt from dry humping WRs after the five yard cutoff
—————————
lol, All we have is hope! LMAO
December 21st, 2011 at 1:32 pm
131.J Hill Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:27 pm
Now I just have to worry about Hue trading away more picks
——————————————————
When did Hue become our GM?
___________________
Maybe you didn’t notice…Al Davis died, and Hue is now running the Raiders….with the “help” of Trask and Mark Davis as he gave lip service to begrudgingly.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:33 pm
132.kvnbntly Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:28 pm
the Palmer trade could actually work in Oaklands favor in the next couple years// instead of having to pay for two first round rookie picks they pay for one, and get $$$ to spend in FA
++++++++++++
Might have made a difference during the past ten years, but now rookie salaries are greatly reduced, so less of an impact. I wish we had traded our first rounders in in 2007, 2009, 2010 for players lol.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:35 pm
“help”
—————-
very imprortant that is in quotations!
December 21st, 2011 at 1:36 pm
134 lmfao
December 21st, 2011 at 1:38 pm
Dakota Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:19 pm
bstallion510 Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:06 pm
The Raiders are fine salary cap wise in 2012.
++++++++++++++
Link? Source?
—————–
You do the math. A lot of free agents coming off the books next year…
http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/oakland-raiders/cap-hit/
December 21st, 2011 at 1:40 pm
Kobe tore a wrist ligiment in his right wrist (shooting hand).
Awesome.
The hits just keep coming.
What is next? Maybe Gasol will tear his vag? Maybe Bynum will blow out his knee? Maybe Palmer will get injured? Maybe the Cubs will tear down Wrigley Field? Maybe ND….oh nevermind, fk ND.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:43 pm
maybe TAmba Hali will fall down and bump his head
December 21st, 2011 at 1:44 pm
139.bstallion510 Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:38 pm
Dakota Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:19 pm
bstallion510 Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:06 pm
The Raiders are fine salary cap wise in 2012.
++++++++++++++
Link? Source?
—————–
You do the math. A lot of free agents coming off the books next year…
http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/oakland-raiders/cap-hit/
++++++++++++
Hmmm, if you click on the 2012 free agents, Campbell and Wimbley are the only well paid players the Raiders have as FAs in 2012, and frankly, Wimbley is signed for 4 more years so I would question the accuracy of that site.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:48 pm
Lots of places the Raiders can cut or demand reworked contracts because of lack of production or being overpaid: I’d start with Seymour, Huff, Routt, McClain and Kelly.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:48 pm
132.kvnbntly Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:28 pm
the Palmer trade could actually work in Oaklands favor in the next couple years// instead of having to pay for two first round rookie picks they pay for one, and get $$$ to spend in FA
****************************
Rookie wage scale. Cam Newton made 5.5 Million this year. First round picks carry MUCH greater value than ever be for.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:52 pm
Lots of athletically gifted players (and their agents) who have major holes in their games will be mourning the passing of Al Davis come this offseason….who will now be the go to guy for the last big unearned contract, or the contract that is way more than the player’s market value?
December 21st, 2011 at 1:53 pm
Dakota Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:44 pm
139.bstallion510 Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:38 pm
Dakota Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:19 pm
bstallion510 Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:06 pm
The Raiders are fine salary cap wise in 2012.
++++++++++++++
Link? Source?
—————–
You do the math. A lot of free agents coming off the books next year…
http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/oakland-raiders/cap-hit/
++++++++++++
Hmmm, if you click on the 2012 free agents, Campbell and Wimbley are the only well paid players the Raiders have as FAs in 2012, and frankly, Wimbley is signed for 4 more years so I would question the accuracy of that site.
—————–
I agree the site is probly not 100% accurate, but it gives you an idea of what they’ll have to work with. There will be $ to play with next year. The Raiders don’t have a lot of holes to fill. CB, LB, O-line need upgrades the most.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:53 pm
Taiwan Jones & Bryan McCann are back?
whooptie friggin doo!
Can we beat KC without Jason Campbell, John Henderson and the superstar trio mentioned above?
December 21st, 2011 at 1:57 pm
John Henderson & Jason Campbell are done in a Raiders uniform.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:58 pm
Good news is, the only 2 players that we have to make a priority in FA this year are Branch and Bush. No one else on the team that is a free agent is a priority.
New GM is going to have A LOT of work to do with regards to contracts though, Al Davis for years has been paying people huge bonuses as opposed to having year to year salarys, for two reasons, 1 to prorate the cap hit over the life of the contract (which helps short term but causes big time dead money issues) and 2 because he couldn’t afford to pay out salaries through the 17 weeks of the season, so he paid huge bonuses out when the league revenue sharing checks came in. (Reason #2 is a speculation by many people in the know, and some capologists I have heard speak on it, not confirmed, seems plausible)
The new GM is going to have to change this, and get us in line with normal teams. This may take a few years, but we will be rid of these bloated contract guys, and scholarship guys and finally be paying commeasurate with performance.
December 21st, 2011 at 1:59 pm
145.Dakota Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:52 pm
Lots of athletically gifted players (and their agents) who have major holes in their games will be mourning the passing of Al Davis come this offseason….who will now be the go to guy for the last big unearned contract, or the contract that is way more than the player’s market value?
***********************
Dan Snyder. He let Shanahan and Allen do it their way for 2 years and are no better off. Their leash is getting pretty short.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:00 pm
bstallion510 Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:53 pm
I agree the site is probly not 100% accurate, but it gives you an idea of what they’ll have to work with. There will be $ to play with next year. The Raiders don’t have a lot of holes to fill. CB, LB, O-line need upgrades the most.
__________________
I agree with the CB, LB and O-line issues, but we may also need safety help and RB help if our own free agents leave us. Both Branch and Bush have low salaries, so that will be difficult to absorb.
We also need a NT since Henderson seems done.
Actually, the only position I think we are set at is WR, as long as DHB keeps improving and Moore and Ford remain healthy, we should be set for next year. Need to replace the backups Chaz and TJ, but that can easily be done.
TE, man, I don’t even notice that we signed Boss. Have not seen him much.
I guess we are also set at K and Punter lol.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:02 pm
Raider fans talking offseason already?
you must either be strong believers in KC over Oakland or Tebow over KC …
Raiders are going to slap down Sandy Eggo regardless of what happens in WK16. print it
December 21st, 2011 at 2:04 pm
I agree the site is probly not 100% accurate, but it gives you an idea of what they’ll have to work with. There will be $ to play with next year. The Raiders don’t have a lot of holes to fill. CB, LB, O-line need upgrades the most.
*****************************
I would agree with LB, but CB is not necessarily a position of need. DVD and Chekwa have both shown some flashes of quality play, their biggest asset this year will be a real NFL offseason where they can get their bodies physically to an NFL level. Lito and CJ are adequate (in a proper defensive scheme). LT and LG/C are good with Veldheer and Wiz2, we still dont really know what we have in Barksdale and BCampbell. Heyer has played ok in his time at LG. I don’t think Oline is a position in desperate need of fixing, but could benefit from upgrades. I would focus all my energy on the defensive side of the ball. Playmakers are needed, consistant ones, not the one game wonders we call playmakers.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:05 pm
What’s up Rockstar?
December 21st, 2011 at 2:05 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 2:02 pm
Raider fans talking offseason already?
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Its much better than the CONSTANT ‘I hate Hue’ convos for the last three weeks…
December 21st, 2011 at 2:06 pm
Maybe you didn’t notice…Al Davis died, and Hue is now running the Raiders
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That only fits in your propoganda.
Reality of the situation is Marc Davis is the one with the power of the pen.
If he is deferring to Hue, that is a problem that will be resolved when he hires a GM this offseason.
Credit/blame for all moves post Al Davis is on Marc Davis.
If Palmer takes the Raiders to the SB, Marc Davis should get the credit for pulling the trigger, not the gawd damn head coach!
December 21st, 2011 at 2:08 pm
but CB is not necessarily a position of need. DVD and Chekwa have both shown some flashes of quality play, their biggest asset this year will be a real NFL offseason where they can get their bodies physically to an NFL level.
++++++++
True, but we can’t bet the season on it. Need a dependable quality vet at CB to replace CJ and Lito, and as an insurance policy against the young guys not quite being there yet.
Not a break the bank FA CB, just a good guy that can be plugged in and make some plays once in a while. CJ Toast Johnson and Lito are done.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:08 pm
but we may also need safety help and RB help if our own free agents leave us. Both Branch and Bush have low salaries, so that will be difficult to absorb.
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Branch is a fringe Pro Bowler, and should be the #1 priority in the offseason. Bush is not as big a concern, there are a bunch of quality RB’s out there in FA this year. If a team is foolish enough to pay Bush to be their feature back, then let him go. He can be replaced. He should only be retained if the price is right. I am not hating on Bush by any means, but he is not worth the figure I think he is going to ask for.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:09 pm
Its much better than the CONSTANT ‘I hate Hue’ convos for the last three weeks
***
true – but aren’t you assuming Hue will fail against two AFC West foes with the same or worse record if you’re talking offseason when the AFC West Champ and wildcard spots are undecided at this point ???
Might as well say you have no confidence in the HC if you think we’re out of the mix imo
December 21st, 2011 at 2:12 pm
Not a break the bank FA CB, just a good guy that can be plugged in and make some plays once in a while. CJ Toast Johnson and Lito are done.
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Not sure I agree. Lito has played pretty well. He is being coached into a position of failure. CJ missed most of the season, and was playing hurt when he was here. He should be given the chance to prove that when healthy he can play. Nothing huge, and not guaranteed. I would love to snag Rogers from across the bay, but I think he is going to command some serious coin after the season he has had.
Have to remember, as your be Casserly pointed out, more than 25% of the NFL will be unrestricted free agents next year, there will be quality guys to be had for less than normal market value.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:14 pm
156.J Hill Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 2:06 pm
Maybe you didn’t notice…Al Davis died, and Hue is now running the Raiders
——————————————————-
That only fits in your propoganda.
Reality of the situation is Marc Davis is the one with the power of the pen.
If he is deferring to Hue, that is a problem that will be resolved when he hires a GM this offseason.
Credit/blame for all moves post Al Davis is on Marc Davis.
If Palmer takes the Raiders to the SB, Marc Davis should get the credit for pulling the trigger, not the gawd damn head coach!
+++++++++++++++++++++++
What? You think Mark Davis is running the show? It has been reported that Mark Davis has never wanted anything to do with the day to day operations of the Raiders. He can’t even stomach releasing players.
Mark Davis doesn’t have clue one about running this team from a day to day operational standpoint. Hands off owners like that do not get the blame or credit….the person making the moves gets that and right now that is clearly Hue Jackson.
You think Bob Craft gets the credit in NE? lol
December 21st, 2011 at 2:14 pm
true – but aren’t you assuming Hue will fail against two AFC West foes with the same or worse record if you’re talking offseason when the AFC West Champ and wildcard spots are undecided at this point ???
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Not at all. I don’t subscribe to that thinking one bit. IF we were 14-0 right now I would still talk offseason and cap numbers. Says nothing about my faith in Hue or the team at all. I happen to enjoy talking about free agency and capology so to speak more than I do arguing about the same nonsense day in and day out. If anyone wants to talk this weeks game, I am also in for that.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:15 pm
Dakota Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 2:00 pm
bstallion510 Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 1:53 pm
I agree the site is probly not 100% accurate, but it gives you an idea of what they’ll have to work with. There will be $ to play with next year. The Raiders don’t have a lot of holes to fill. CB, LB, O-line need upgrades the most.
__________________
I agree with the CB, LB and O-line issues, but we may also need safety help and RB help if our own free agents leave us. Both Branch and Bush have low salaries, so that will be difficult to absorb.
We also need a NT since Henderson seems done.
Actually, the only position I think we are set at is WR, as long as DHB keeps improving and Moore and Ford remain healthy, we should be set for next year. Need to replace the backups Chaz and TJ, but that can easily be done.
TE, man, I don’t even notice that we signed Boss. Have not seen him much.
I guess we are also set at K and Punter lol.
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I think Branch stays.. Bush might be too expensive to keep.. There are some good RB’s out there though. It’s not hard to find a good #2 RB. Safety needs more depth for sure. The entire secondary needs more depth lol! I’m mad they gave Huff so much $.. He doesn’t make enough plays to warrant the contract he got. Yea we could add another NT. Franklin? I agree that Hue should’ve used Boss more this season. Hopefully next season he’ll be utilized more often. The dude is a weapon! Especially in the red zone. Yea we have the best kicking duo in the game. The best kickers are in the Bay Area. Oakland an S.F. got those positions on lock.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:16 pm
bcz24,
You know I like my boy Casserly lol. Would love him to come in and run the Raiders for a few years.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:17 pm
Mark Davis doesn’t have clue one about running this team from a day to day operational standpoint. Hands off owners like that do not get the blame or credit….the person making the moves gets that and right now that is clearly Hue Jackson.
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No I agree 100% with this. Hue Jackson is in charge of the show, Mark Davis is just the pen signing off on whats put in front of him. Trask is in charge of the business side of the team as she always has been.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:19 pm
Aubrayo Franklin would be a MONSTER pick up for this defense, Sean Rogers would be awesome too… both only signed 1 year deals in NO and the Saints have the little issue of resigning Drew Brees to worry about first and foremost.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:19 pm
Maybe the Raiders can lure Carlos Rodgers from S.F. He’s been making plays for Frisco this season. We should’ve went after their saftey, Gholston, when we hhad a chance. He has like 6 picks this season. He’s better than Huff! Finnergan is a free agent next season. What do yall think about him?
December 21st, 2011 at 2:19 pm
Casserly’s choice of Mario Williams over Boy Wonder Reggie Bush was the balsiest move I have ever seen from a GM with the #1 pick. He was proven right….after he was fired lol.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:20 pm
Finnegan would be a nice pick up, but he is going to be in the 8-10 million range.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:22 pm
Quick question: has any practice squad players have ever broke out and was monster for their perspective teams? I heard of one, but i can’t remember who it was? Arian Foster? No?
December 21st, 2011 at 2:24 pm
Rodd Smith was a PS player I believe.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:25 pm
has any practice squad players have ever broke out and was monster for their perspective teams?
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as far as the raiders, the most dangerous FB in the league Reece was a practice squad player
December 21st, 2011 at 2:27 pm
I think playing Reece at RB and signing a true FB might be the resolution for the Bush problem if he leaves.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:29 pm
I think playing Reece at RB and signing a true FB might be the resolution for the Bush problem if he leaves.
__________
don’t let method hear you say that
December 21st, 2011 at 2:30 pm
174.inonewordraider Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 2:29 pm
I think playing Reece at RB and signing a true FB might be the resolution for the Bush problem if he leaves.
__________
don’t let method hear you say that
++++++++++++
lol
December 21st, 2011 at 2:30 pm
I think the biggest question this off season will be LB’s.
You can get a good RB in the late rounds of the draft why pay Bush big money.
There is a lot of potential with in the secondary with DVD and Chekwa getting game time and Lito showing up to play well.
I would say RT should be high on the draft board along with the D-line.
Yes we are talking about the draft because we are 7-7 and its obvious there are holes that need to be filled.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:34 pm
Back to the NBA lol.
You know what the McFadden injury reminds me of? The first game after the Lakers traded for Pau Gasol Kobe went out, against the Wizards I think, and snapped that ligament in his pinky on his shooting hand. He would never admit it, but I think that injury has hindered his outside shooting ability over the past 4 seasons.
We get Palmer and the next game lose McFadden to pretty much a season ending injury and an injury that potentially could destroy his career. fk that schyt! What the hell kind of luck is that?
December 21st, 2011 at 2:38 pm
Fresh off another disappointing season, and here comes happy talk about the draft.
Ugghhhh!
December 21st, 2011 at 2:39 pm
Jacoby F.ound O.n R.oad D.ead
December 21st, 2011 at 2:39 pm
I agree on Bush. As much as I like him, He’s not an elite, big contract back. Fair to good backs can be had later in the draft where our picks are.
Running backs are a little inter-changeable.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:40 pm
KK Munster, you can go F yourself and then sweep up the barbershop you ass clown. Better yet go sell a house or at least find one to list. Forecloser’s are up since your hero took office, good luck!
_____
KoolKell Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 2:38 pm
Fresh off another disappointing season, and here comes happy talk about the draft.
Ugghhhh!
December 21st, 2011 at 2:40 pm
McFadden needs to see a foot specialist or something lol. He needs to find out a way to keep his feet healthy. I don’t recall him being injured like this in college. Correct me if I’m wrong…
December 21st, 2011 at 2:42 pm
BrownStains, There’s no chimneys on trailers for Santa to get down, huh?
Too Bad.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:42 pm
182.bstallion510 Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 2:40 pm
McFadden needs to see a foot specialist or something lol. He needs to find out a way to keep his feet healthy. I don’t recall him being injured like this in college. Correct me if I’m wrong…
+++++++
McFadden missed very little playing time in college.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:43 pm
“Finnegan would be a nice pick up, but he is going to be in the 8-10 million range.”
__
I thought for a second you were talking about that Alex Finnegan chick on NFL network. With the giant choppers…
She scares me. Like sticking it in a lawnmower….
December 21st, 2011 at 2:43 pm
VittorioTafur ProFootballFocus.com said C Samson Satele had career day – not 1 negative grade on 46 drop-backs & 25 run-blocks, + 2 nice blocks on screens
about 3 hours ago
December 21st, 2011 at 2:43 pm
Dakota Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 2:34 pm
Back to the NBA lol.
You know what the McFadden injury reminds me of? The first game after the Lakers traded for Pau Gasol Kobe went out, against the Wizards I think, and snapped that ligament in his pinky on his shooting hand. He would never admit it, but I think that injury has hindered his outside shooting ability over the past 4 seasons.
We get Palmer and the next game lose McFadden to pretty much a season ending injury and an injury that potentially could destroy his career. fk that schyt! What the hell kind of luck is that?
____________________________
OJ Mayo-Conley the starter
Jose Calderon-big contract, Bayless and Barbosa on squad
Randy Foye-Billups, CP, Bledsoe, Mo Williams
Monta Ellis-Curry, Thompson
Mo Williams-see Randy Foye
any way we can one of these without trading our “big three”, would you want any of them?
December 21st, 2011 at 2:43 pm
KK Munster you have been using the tired ole trailer blast for a year now. Move on to something at least slightly funny but not stale, ok ?
December 21st, 2011 at 2:45 pm
KK Munster, when you see your fellow troll Peymour Bish ask him why Lechler keeps dropping punts inside the 15 if he isn’t a “placement” kicker, thanks old man
December 21st, 2011 at 2:46 pm
PGutierrezCSN Michael Bush joins @RAIDERS injury report, limited. “Just gotta take care of him. Guy’s been banging.” – Hue Jackson
22 minutes ago
December 21st, 2011 at 2:47 pm
909RaiderLifer Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 2:46 pm
PGutierrezCSN Michael Bush joins @RAIDERS injury report, limited. “Just gotta take care of him. Guy’s been banging.” – Hue Jackson
22 minutes ago
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great
December 21st, 2011 at 2:47 pm
BrownStains, do you have anybody in your life to share X-mas with, besides Brien?
December 21st, 2011 at 2:48 pm
Mo Williams would be a nice pickup. Knows Brown’s “offense” if you can call it that. After spending all offseason behind a desk, I don’t expect much out of Fish. The rookie from Mich looked okay, but he needs a year or two.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:50 pm
Mo Williams would be a nice pickup. Knows Brown’s “offense” if you can call it that.
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funny bcuz of the guys I mentioned I like him the least, although he seems like he’d be the easiest to acquire considering the log jam they have at PG, well we gotta couple picks to offer via Odom!
December 21st, 2011 at 2:51 pm
Freakin’ finally! Seabass & Shane Lechler both going to the Pro Bowl (unless. . .).
Now if they both are annointed All-Pro (if not will only have mason Crosby of the Pack to blame. . .)
December 21st, 2011 at 2:51 pm
We need a NEW MLB, safety, CB, DT (seymore on his way out)RB (if Bush leaves), and O line help is always a plus
December 21st, 2011 at 2:52 pm
KK Munster just because I’ve had more blk women than you dont be a hater old man
December 21st, 2011 at 2:52 pm
well at leadt those three have all the offseason to get better….
December 21st, 2011 at 2:53 pm
As has been the case for most of the season, the interior of our O-line played well on Sunday, and our tackles were less than stelar.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:53 pm
194.inonewordraider Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 2:50 pm
Mo Williams would be a nice pickup. Knows Brown’s “offense” if you can call it that.
_____________________
funny bcuz of the guys I mentioned I like him the least, although he seems like he’d be the easiest to acquire considering the log jam they have at PG, well we gotta couple picks to offer via Odom!
++++++++++++++++
I have a feeling that Metta World Peace might get amnestied after another game or two like he had the other night. That dude is done.
I’d trade him to the Clippers for an order of KFC slaw and McDonald’s cheeseburgers.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:54 pm
MistaBrown Says:
December 21st, 2011 at 2:52 pm
KK Munster just because I’ve had more blk women than you dont be a hater old man
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????????????????
December 21st, 2011 at 2:55 pm
“We need a NEW MLB,”
Pretty much what I was getting at I am done with McClain but I am not in the front office so all I can do is hope.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:55 pm
I have watched all of about 5 minutes of preseason hoops, the Warriors-Kings games.
What I got from those 5 minutes:
-Kings players don’t like passing to the Jimmer
-Curry has bulked up and is the obvious keeper in the Ellis-Curry backcourt
-Dubs still huck up garbage shots all the time
-Udoh is the key to the season
December 21st, 2011 at 2:56 pm
Vegas,
Who are the Warriors? They a WNBA team?
New post.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:57 pm
I thought last week’s game was “must win”.
December 21st, 2011 at 2:58 pm
Looks like jamista clown is melting down. Newt must have told him he didn’t need his help.
December 21st, 2011 at 3:09 pm
New Post. YAy.
December 21st, 2011 at 3:36 pm
The “career effecting injury” is all the reason not to draft a RB fourth overall. No return for the money. . .
So DMAC returns next year & has a relatively injury free season in, ironically, his contract year.OBTW; he has the accompanying career year that vaults his status up there with Marshall Faulk, Priest Holmes, Roger Craig & Gary Anderson as all purpose running backs, and then. . .
So he proceeds to stick it to the Raiders (not his fault or wish) & gets hurt again, his explosiveness starts to wane & he becomes one of those “what coulda been. . .” type stories.
For the record and for the umpteenth time; I favored drafting Ryan Clady in the first round & picking Matt Forte up in the third round (I won’t get started with that). . .
Any running back can get hurt & it seems a point of WHEN they get hurt & their career starts to unwind instead of IF a running back gets hurt. . .always knew Marcus Allen had a chance because nobody could get the clean kill shot on him. . .DMAC welcomes a certain amount of contact. . .but how many Marcus Allens are running around (probably wouldn’t want to have many more. . .)? Yeah, or everybody would have one. . .
Don’t get me wrong; I’ll invariably support whomever the Raiders pick. It’s just when I want BJ Raji & they pick DHB, I want Haloti Ngata instead of Michael Huff or Mike Roos (LOT for Tennessee) instead of Stanford Rout, whom the Raiders could of had a round later. . .
Okay, I digress. . .the point is to have someone that has to be accountable because of his versatility and consistency over the long haul instead of measureables that dissipate like beauty for a young woman. . .better have a great personality. . .
The point that I have supported from day one (why Henderson is so valuable & THEY don’t grow on trees either. But of the 2001-2002 draft class that netted Big Rich & his college running mate, Marcus Stroud, Albert Haynesworth & only Stroud no longer plays. Premium on those types. . .)what the Raoiders do. However, someone brought up the unmitigatable fact that the Raiders need someone like Henderson to tie up bodies so his running mate can play the “3″ technique. Two “3’s” get you OG’s taking on LB’s on the second level. Repeatedly.
So for you that get down on ROMAC for not being able to shed blockers 80 lbs heavier than him, well the Raiders made that bargin. Surely he’s not fast enough to play the role the Raiders require but I think the Raiders were banking on his size & intelligence. It still could work, but the fourth down whiff on Sunday indicates otherwise. . .
And, of course the Raiders have had problems setting the edge, leaving them totally exposed in the running game. Then the secondary players “ankle dive (usually unsuccessfully)” or, for those of you in the verbacular, enlists a “business decision” and the opposition gashes the Raiders to the house one more time.
Then the Raiders are either playing man coverage, further exacerbating the situation. Or, they are so woefully inept @ thackling or playing zone coverage that is no help. . .so it should be no surprise (coupled with the worse collective ball awareness of any defense in the league) that the Raiders defense is so woeful.
That should appease you as the Raiders take their collective Nation down tho the last play of the year &, hence, the Raider Nation’s last collective nerve. . .
So talk of next year is just good old common sense. . .
December 21st, 2011 at 3:38 pm
Dakota, I’m not stopping @ TWO fast food restaurants for that order. . .Howard’s the only hope. . .but the Warriors are trying to eliminate pouty namechangers. . .
Make mine Subway. . .
December 21st, 2011 at 3:58 pm
BTW; Corry’s ankle probably isn’t getting appreciably better anytime soon. . .
The Warriors answer to DMAC. . .
And the Clippers are just today’s flavor of the week. Otherwise the Wizards with JeVale McGee & Wall would be more highly touted touted. If Blatche accepts the fact less a medium range game like Mark West he should just collect garbage & rebound. . .not necessarily . . .but you just hear crickets from our nation’s capital (where Chicago athletics are more hearlded/reveared). . .
Naw, I like Chicago this year. Jalen Rose & Rip Hamilton with all those above average role players. . .if Booser stays healthy & Noah doesn’t beat himself into oblivion setting picks, bumping point guards & soaring across the key to defend the rim. . .(isn’t it cool that a former French tennis pro’s som is a crash & burn kinda player? Cool. How non-European. . .).
But in the west? If Bynum can stay relatively healthy (with the compressed schedule the odds are dwindling in his favor) & if Pao can use the aborted trade as incentive (so polisned on the surface; smoldering volcano under the skin) the Lakers can be competative. Kobe needs a sidekick; perhaps LA is Howard’s final destination. . .SA too old? Dallas; too many holes to repeat (odom for Chandler will be interesting. . .) I don’t see a “head above the pack” west team; just don’t think it will be the Clips. Not enough inerior support or defense to help Griffin (don’t think Kia has anything on the horizon. . .)
Oklahoma (hard for a Seattelite to go along with that. Where’s Curt Cobain when you need him?) City bu default. Just don’t think Westbrook has learned his lesson yet. But a matchup against Chicago?
Perhaps if the Phoenix Coyotes were lured to Seatle & something to disuade the Oklahoma ownership from trusting the safety of the Oklahoma City community? LOL 9although I lobbied for the nickname to be the “Bombers.” It wouldn’t be the first time a team was called that LOL (can’t emphasize that enough)