Philip Wheeler Q&A
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Monday, April 2nd, 2012 at 2:07 pm in Oakland Raiders.
A transcription of linebacker Philip Wheeler’s conference call with Bay Area media Monday:
Q: What can you say about your first day in terms of the atmosphere, what impressions can you draw?
Wheeler: It’s like, I’m pretty sure everybody else thought, everybody was new, a lot of new faces, new coaches, for everybody. I feel like we’re all coming in on an even playing field type thing. As far as competition, I feel like it’s going to be healthy competition for us and I feel like we’re going to be a good team because of that.
Q: What can you say about the coaching staff, their message to you, etc?
Wheeler: This is my first day. I did know one of the coaches, prior, the Senior Bowl when I was coming out of college, coach Tarver, and I talked to him on the phone before I signed and that kind of helped make my decision. He knows my ability and everything. That’s one coach I already knew. I feel like this is the best situation for me. I think, these coaches here, they were pretty adamant about the way they’re running their defenses. It’s a defensive head coach, he has a defensive mind, I wanted to come to a place that would take defense a little more serious.
Q: Was decision tough when it came down to it?
Wheeler: It was a tough decision any time you’re moving somewhere, especially when I have an opportunity to move on the other side of the country, to move toward a defense that, it looks like this defense is catered to linebackers and specifically the way I play, I think. It feels good to be around other good linebackers. It seems like it’s already a decent linebacking corps here, a pretty good linebacking corps. They’re young, just like myself so I feel this would be a great opportunity to build something here. As far as my decision, I had my choice to go to a couple other teams, Miami was one of ‘em. It was a hard decision, but it was a better fit for me here because of the type of defense and the type of scheme they’re running here and the type of coaches they got here.
Q: How is the defense catered to your style of play?
Wheeler: Coach Tarver told me there was going to be a lot of blitzing, just a lot of mixing up things, not just standing still in Cover 2 like I did in with the Indianapolis Colts for awhile. Nothing against that, we had a great offense that kept the lead a lot. We were able to sit back in Cover 2 and rush the passer a lot because teams had to catch up, and we had two great defensive ends that did that. But I also like to rush the passer and everything from the linebacker position and coach Tarver told me that it would be some of that going on.
Q: Impressed by how Raider fans reached out, how many followers did you pick up?
Wheeler: Yeah, yeah. I don’t know I think it was like 2,000. It was cool man, because that kind of helped me in my decision because it showed me how big of a football city this is and how much they paid attention to football instead of going somewhere else. Indianapolis, it was pretty good football city, but the fans, they didn’t’ get more involved in media, and just showing us how much they care about the game. I always wanted to play in a big football for a legendary team, something like that and that kind of helped me choose Oakland.
Q: How does knowing Peyton Manning help when you play him?
Wheeler: He’s going to be in a different situation than he was. I just know from practice and going against me, he helped me playing against the best quarterback in the league. I know how to step my game up because of that. As far as knowing what he’s going to do, he’s always unpredictable. That’s why he was so good. You don’t know where he is going with the ball. You know what type of play he runs but you don’t know when he’s going to run it. I feel like I’m better just from going up against him in practice every day and I’ll be prepared to face any quarterback like that. I think I can help the team do that.
Q: How do you set the edge as smaller strongside linebacker?
Wheeler: To be honest it’s kind of difficult for me to decide on a position for myself because I think I’m versatile. The coaches also recognize that. I feel like playing that position it comes pretty simple to me. I don’t worry about it as far as size and everything. I just want to be able to use all of my talent. I’m kind of a jack of all trades. I feel like in Indianapolis I wasn’t able to use everything that I had. It didn’t bore me. It just made my want to do something else, check to other teams. I just want to be able to use all of my talents. That’s all. I feel like I’ll be able to do that here. That’s why I chose to play here.
Q: Any sense how many guys showed up today?
Wheeler: I don’t know how much of the team was here. We had meetings, we had our first introduction meeting. A lot of new faces from what I here. I lot of new faces for me. Everybody got to know each other today.
Q: Used to see Raiders played 4-3, seldom blitzed and played a ton of man, sounds like new era will be different?
Wheeler: I actually heard some of the coaches saying we’re not just big and fast anymore. We’re going to be big, fast and we’re going to be smarter and have good football players. I played Madden a lot. I know a lot of players on the team because I play with the Raiders. They always had the fastest team. I always put Terrelle Pryor in the game and I run around with him on Madden. He’s probably my favorite player on the team. Nobody knows that yet. I play with him on Madden so I feel like I know everything about the team. They were always bigger, faster and stronger than everybody. But the awareness of the game, some of it was down or whatever. I feel like Mr. McKenzie brought in a lot of players in who actually know how to play the game and aren’t just faster than everybody. We have actual football players here now.
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April 2nd, 2012 at 2:10 pm
#1
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:10 pm
2
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:13 pm
Wheeler on board, now get rid of Rolando “another first rd bust” McClain and this defense will be top 10, guaranteed
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:16 pm
Playing Madden with the Raiders, I’m sure now he will love using them even more.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:17 pm
Who do you want the Raiders to draft at #95 ???
RaiderRockstar: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Carl Weathers: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
R8ER MIKE: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
CJ Legend 34: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
RaiderDuck: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
PlunkforHOF: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
HairyBush: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Silverandblack666: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Fingers: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Guest123: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Poprox13: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Just Fire Baby: Casey Heyward (Vandy)
R8eray: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Hwnrdr: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
DMAC: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Thec: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Raider O: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
RaiderRetribution: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
DJ Johnny: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
Hardline: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
No Mas Diamante: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
Bcz24: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Antispy3: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Raiderinparadise: Keenan Robinson (Texas)
DIRT-LOT FOOTBALL: Tyrone Crawford (Boise St)
JLofty: Trumaine Johnson (Montana)
LA to TheBay: Josh Robinson (USF)
RaidO: Josh Robinson (USF)
SilverNBlackPA: Derek Wolfe (Cincinnati)
Raiderman99: Isaiah Pead (Cincinnati)
Dakota: Ladarius Green (Louisiana-Lafayette)
Deja vu: Nigel Bradham (Florida State)
Raider Dell: Bruce Irvin (West Virginia)
ToneMcFresh: Bruce Irvin (West Virginia)
Tjbwall: Ronnell Lewis (Oklahoma U)
PurpleDrank81: Shea McClellin (Boise State)
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:17 pm
Raiders2002 Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:13 pm
Wheeler on board, now get rid of Rolando “another first rd bust” McClain and this defense will be top 10, guaranteed
———–
I’m a huge hater on McClain, but with 2 terrible coordinators and schemes, I give him this year to prove it … he has Tarver and Allen to get him grinding. If not, bye bye Al Davis pick.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:18 pm
Wheeler: Coach Tarver told me there was going to be a lot of blitzing, just a lot of mixing up things,
++++++++
For those of you who hate blitzing, do not get sick…
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:18 pm
still awaiting votes for #95 pick
Attn:
Jhill
Marley
HGDaddy
GG
ROG
Marks Hair
AIG
Goldie
Seymour Bush
maverick
AutumnWind
Kirk
Morilla
jesusraiderjim
Raider Guy
Dutch
YA
inonewordraider
Ed Teach
Debo
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:19 pm
Yeah buddy!!! Can you smell the football in the air? Best to get ready cause it’s here!!!
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:21 pm
Yeah, yeah. I don’t know I think it was like 2,000. It was cool man, because that kind of helped me in my decision because it showed me how big of a football city this is and how much they paid attention to football instead of going somewhere else.
+++++++++++=
BIG UPS TO THE NATION…
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:21 pm
@4
If ur a stud like me, you use them and win. I hope reggie adds more speed with actual football IQ, so that way we can have speed and high awareness in madden
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:22 pm
With Rivers and a rebuilding o-line
Cheifs with great o-line and top 3 run game
Denver with Manning
We need multiple fronts and looks, our division is schematically variant on offense. Blitz the passer, dial up some run blitzes with the safeties … its going to be a fun year FINALLY to watch raider D.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:22 pm
TP is Wheelers favorite player…. I like that
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:25 pm
PurpleDrank81 Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:22 pm
TP is Wheelers favorite player…. I like that
——-
CP3 DOESN’T LOL
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:25 pm
We have actual football players here now
***
Ouch!
LOL
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:26 pm
Famous Raider twitter guys;
TP
JFORD
TJONES
DHB
I wanna see some tweets that these guys are in the play book….
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:26 pm
I guess that’s what they mean by the defense being “multiple”, blitzing from all angles. YEAH BABY.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:26 pm
@RaiderRockstar
Sammy Brown (Houston U)
thanks in advance !!!
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:26 pm
Yes. Blitz all day. I like that but they better draft a cb at 95 if they plan on being a blitz heavy team. You need good CBs to pull that off.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:27 pm
I know I am a new comer to the blog but as for my vote “I am goin with the Samoan: Alameda Ta’amu is my 95 pick
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:28 pm
KoolKell Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:26 pm
I guess that’s what they mean by the defense being “multiple”, blitzing from all angles. YEAH BABY.
++++++++++++
I look forward to it….
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:28 pm
The DB’s are fine, they won’t touch any at no.95
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:29 pm
First, Raiderdebo, Schilllens needs to make that play. Ball hit him in his fingers. All of them. on both hands. . .
And the throw to DHB in overtime in KC wasn’t clutch?
Can’t have it both ways. . .
I’m with palmer. He has demonstrated his strengths. Can’t wait to see all the converts once the Raiders “O” gets rolling. . .
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:29 pm
Want to see them go after the QB with regularity…
And not that day late dollar short stuff…
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:31 pm
Team CP3 here too.
With that offense fully healthy he will rip it.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:31 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:18 pm
still awaiting votes for #95 pick
Attn:
Jhill
Marley
HGDaddy
GG
ROG
Marks Hair
AIG
Goldie
Seymour Bush
maverick
AutumnWind
Kirk
Morilla
jesusraiderjim
Raider Guy
Dutch
YA
inonewordraider
Ed Teach
Debo
============
Crap man, I don’t know. It’s so late in the draft I might as well throw the dice in the dark.
I’d like to see Sean Spence still if he’s around get drafted. Overachiever and hellova “football player” more than athlete.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:31 pm
Who do you want the Raiders to draft at #95 ???
RaiderRockstar: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Carl Weathers: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
R8ER MIKE: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
CJ Legend 34: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
RaiderDuck: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
PlunkforHOF: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
HairyBush: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Silverandblack666: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Fingers: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Guest123: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Poprox13: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Just Fire Baby: Casey Heyward (Vandy)
R8eray: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Hwnrdr: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
DMAC: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Thec: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Jesusraiderjim: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Raider O: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
RaiderRetribution: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
DJ Johnny: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
Hardline: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
No Mas Diamante: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
Bcz24: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Antispy3: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Blackmamba_20: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Raiderinparadise: Keenan Robinson (Texas)
DIRT-LOT FOOTBALL: Tyrone Crawford (Boise St)
JLofty: Trumaine Johnson (Montana)
LA to TheBay: Josh Robinson (USF)
RaidO: Josh Robinson (USF)
SilverNBlackPA: Derek Wolfe (Cincinnati)
Raiderman99: Isaiah Pead (Cincinnati)
Dakota: Ladarius Green (Louisiana-Lafayette)
Deja vu: Nigel Bradham (Florida State)
Raider Dell: Bruce Irvin (West Virginia)
ToneMcFresh: Bruce Irvin (West Virginia)
Tjbwall: Ronnell Lewis (Oklahoma U)
PurpleDrank81: Shea McClellin (Boise State)
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:32 pm
From The U (Miami for those who don’t know)
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:32 pm
3.Raiders2002 Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:13 pm
Wheeler on board, now get rid of Rolando “another first rd bust” McClain and this defense will be top 10, guaranteed
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Losing McClain is critical for this D to jell. McClain underperformed his first two season, but also proved with the “gunplay incident” that he doesn’t have the intelligence to play in the NFL, especially as Captain of the Raiders’ defense. Just contemplating him as the D Captain is ludicrous. McClain is sullen and arrogant and refuses, except under threat of contract breach and NFL action, to do interviews. In other words he slaps the hand that feeds him, while playing badly in the mean time.
With that said, I feel we have a uncut gem in our presence: LaMarr Houston. I have seen Huston make some great plays and feel he has great potential that has been mishandled by the staff and coaches: i.e. Bresnahan.
I think that Wheeler and Huston might compose a top LB tandem in the NFL this season.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:33 pm
This “D” will be just right up the alley of the safeties. Huff is an above average blitzer & that’s a good part of Branch’s game. . .just think of the Houston defense. . .whether in a 3-4 or a 4-3. . .
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:33 pm
Finally!
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:34 pm
antispy3 Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:29 pm
First, Raiderdebo, Schilllens needs to make that play. Ball hit him in his fingers. All of them. on both hands. . .
And the throw to DHB in overtime in KC wasn’t clutch?
Can’t have it both ways. . .
I’m with palmer. He has demonstrated his strengths. Can’t wait to see all the converts once the Raiders “O” gets rolling. . .
=================================
Remember that this is the same RaiderDebo who still expects to see a “JaMarcus Russell bidding war” before training camps open.
In other words, he is impervious to reason or logic.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:34 pm
still awaiting votes for #95 pick
Attn:
Jhill
Marley
HGDaddy
GG
ROG
Marks Hair
AIG
Goldie
Seymour Bush
AutumnWind
Kirk
Morilla
Raider Guy
Dutch
YA
8RaiderReign8
inonewordraider
Ed Teach
Debo
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:36 pm
My man wheeler, another player of the best game ever created. I posted @11 without reading article. Me and wheeler on the same page
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:37 pm
I just wish they’d bring Madden back to Windows computers…
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:38 pm
# RaidO Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:26 pm
Yes. Blitz all day. I like that but they better draft a cb at 95 if they plan on being a blitz heavy team. You need good CBs to pull that off.
*************************************
I stand in agreement with that! Unless Huff moves to CB, which is not too of a far fetched idea. Chekwa is not to be forgotten, prior to last years injury, he was very impressive. Chekwa in the slot will be a very good look for us. His Blitz presence alone will make QBs & HB’s think twice when those delay draws & bubble screens are called in to the helmet…I could see Ryan Matthews giving Rivers the WTF look before breaking huddle lol
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:39 pm
@ da trinity
who’s your pick at #95 ??
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:40 pm
translation; oakland sounds like a good place to be now that the azzh0les are gone..
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:43 pm
translation; oakland sounds like a good place to be now that the azzh0les are gone..
***
@Mark
can’t pitch them all in just 1 year
McClain & Kelly may have to wait until next offseason
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:43 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:31 pm
Who do you want the Raiders to draft at #95 ???
==============================
I’m not on the list so I will withhold my #95 pick. lol
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:43 pm
Corners:
1.Ron Bartell
2.Shawntae Spencer
3.Chewka
4.DVD
5.pAT lEE
6.Underwood
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:45 pm
39. lol, I meant al and chuck..
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:46 pm
Anyone think Giordano will be re-signed at VEt minimum? Played under Allen in NO.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:47 pm
@ exlaraiderseasonticketholder
Who do you want the Raiders to draft at #95 ???
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:47 pm
exlaraiderseasonticketholder Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:43 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:31 pm
Who do you want the Raiders to draft at #95 ???
==============================
I’m not on the list so I will withhold my #95 pick. lol
==========
Nah exla…your name is just so damned long he didn’t want to write the whole thing out! LOL
Give it your best shot…just for fun…
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:49 pm
I think Giordano is worth more than the Vet Min. He’s the only DB who made plays last year. Despite his lack of “Raider Speed”.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:49 pm
@95
That LB from da U
Sean Spencer is his name I believe
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:51 pm
KoolKell Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:49 pm
I think Giordano is worth more than the Vet Min. He’s the only DB who made plays last year. Despite his lack of “Raider Speed”.
——-
Yes he arguably made 3-4 plays that ultimately won games for us. Was huge. But his film suggests outside of those plays, he was toast at times in run support and coverage. A hot/cold kinda player. He may be re-inserted by camp time.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:53 pm
Heck yeah … RAIDERS are the best Madden team I still got 11 … N fools don’t Want to play me cuz I got pretty good record.. Now Raiders will be the best team on field too…
CODE BLACK
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:53 pm
our whole defense is 1 big pile of inconsistent… The coaches have work to do..
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:53 pm
I would keep Gio. In my opinion, he was the only guy that resembled a playmaker…
He did however have his mind melts with routt.
Hopefully we can get that cleaned up.
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:57 pm
Who do you want the Raiders to draft at #95 ???
RaiderRockstar: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Carl Weathers: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
R8ER MIKE: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
CJ Legend 34: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
RaiderDuck: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
PlunkforHOF: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
HairyBush: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Silverandblack666: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Fingers: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Guest123: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Poprox13: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Just Fire Baby: Casey Heyward (Vandy)
R8eray: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Hwnrdr: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
DMAC: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Thec: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Jesusraiderjim: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Raider O: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
RaiderRetribution: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
DJ Johnny: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
Hardline: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
No Mas Diamante: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
Bcz24: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Antispy3: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Blackmamba_20: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Raiderinparadise: Keenan Robinson (Texas)
Raiderzmaverick: Sean Spence (Miami U)
Da Trinity: Sean Spence (Miami U)
DIRT-LOT FOOTBALL: Tyrone Crawford (Boise St)
JLofty: Trumaine Johnson (Montana)
LA to TheBay: Josh Robinson (USF)
RaidO: Josh Robinson (USF)
SilverNBlackPA: Derek Wolfe (Cincinnati)
Raiderman99: Isaiah Pead (Cincinnati)
Dakota: Ladarius Green (Louisiana-Lafayette)
Deja vu: Nigel Bradham (Florida State)
Raider Dell: Bruce Irvin (West Virginia)
ToneMcFresh: Bruce Irvin (West Virginia)
Tjbwall: Ronnell Lewis (Oklahoma U)
PurpleDrank81: Shea McClellin (Boise State)
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:58 pm
@49
Raiderallday31 on the PS3.
Get at me
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:00 pm
Pick 95 for me…
Michael Brewster (c)
Robert turbine (hb)
Or top rated LB
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:03 pm
Da Trinity Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:58 pm
@49
Raiderallday31 on the PS3.
Get at me
——
r8eray also on ps3!
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:03 pm
Guest123: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Poprox13: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
++++++++
Demario Davis
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:05 pm
Did you dudes see Krappy soil his diapers in excitement over the Raiders blitzing?
So hilarious when that freaky old goat gets excited by old news on a football blog.
Speaking of my huge weiner, I just got a sweet hand jiggity by this coked out stripper in hot tub.
Seriously, I gotta remember the lube from now on, ’cause going bareback is chaffing my impressive johnson.
Gotta keep the quarterhorse oiled up and ready for the track, if you know what I am talking about
BRINGING THE CHEDDAR BACK TO EDDIE VEDDER
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:09 pm
Dumb Beeech
Still daydreaming over the kitchen sink at Arby’s?
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:09 pm
Demoted McClain from team/defense captain.
I’ve always liked the idea of Houston playing mlb/ilb; he would need to lose at least 20 lbs; must be moved inside toDT.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:12 pm
@55
When I get home from work ill send u a friend request so we can play.
Accepting all challengers, just shoot me ur info
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:12 pm
RaiderRetribution Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:09 pm
Demoted McClain from team/defense captain.
I’ve always liked the idea of Houston playing mlb/ilb; he would need to lose at least 20 lbs; must be moved inside toDT.
—————————————
Lamar Houston to MLB or DT???????????????????????????
Damn, Lol.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:13 pm
Feeling good about this year! Which means nothing, I’ve been saying it since ‘70. But am still feeling good about this year!
Reggie, grab us the nastiest freakin NT out there, would ya?
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:14 pm
Krappy what’s the latest with your cool red Corvette?
Haven’t heard anything lately on CNN about you driving it around in any parades
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:16 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 2:57 pm
Who do you want the Raiders to draft at #95 ???
RaiderRockstar: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Carl Weathers: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
R8ER MIKE: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
CJ Legend 34: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
RaiderDuck: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
PlunkforHOF: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
HairyBush: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Silverandblack666: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Fingers: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Guest123: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Poprox13: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Just Fire Baby: Casey Heyward (Vandy)
R8eray: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Hwnrdr: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
DMAC: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Thec: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Jesusraiderjim: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Raider O: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
RaiderRetribution: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
DJ Johnny: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
Hardline: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
No Mas Diamante: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
Bcz24: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Antispy3: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Blackmamba_20: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Raiderinparadise: Keenan Robinson (Texas)
Raiderzmaverick: Sean Spence (Miami U)
Da Trinity: Sean Spence (Miami U)
DIRT-LOT FOOTBALL: Tyrone Crawford (Boise St)
JLofty: Trumaine Johnson (Montana)
LA to TheBay: Josh Robinson (USF)
RaidO: Josh Robinson (USF)
SilverNBlackPA: Derek Wolfe (Cincinnati)
Raiderman99: Isaiah Pead (Cincinnati)
Dakota: Ladarius Green (Louisiana-Lafayette)
Deja vu: Nigel Bradham (Florida State)
Raider Dell: Bruce Irvin (West Virginia)
ToneMcFresh: Bruce Irvin (West Virginia)
Tjbwall: Ronnell Lewis (Oklahoma U)
PurpleDrank81: Shea McClellin (Boise State)
——————————————————
Mychal kendrix and Josh Chapman seem a little small for their positions at the pro level, they could work.
But have to go with the Samoan dude
Raidertalk–> Alameda Ta’amu
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:16 pm
LB Travis Goethel is ready to get back into off-season workouts after sitting out last year with a knee injury. “I feel good,” said Goethel. “I’m just ready to get after it. Last year it was a long year for me, just sitting there watching everything go down. I’m just excited to get back in the mix and start playing football again.”
Goethel feels comfortable with the new coaching staff after meeting them for the first time. “Today is the first day that I’ve actually met with them face to face and they all seem like cool dudes and they all want to get after it just like we do.”
The players have set goals for themselves as well as the team and are using these workouts and meetings as a first step in reaching those goals. “My goal right now is to get out and contribute as much as I can, whether it’s on defense or special teams, just get out there and help this team out as much as I can,” said Goethel.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:17 pm
#46 Giordano definitely deserves a contract, Raiders lose season opener to Denver, we also lose to New York; which means we start season 0-4.
He made plays, it’s not like he was the only player that poor played run defense.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:17 pm
Master Beeecham Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:14 pm
Krappy what’s the latest with your cool red Corvette?
Haven’t heard anything lately on CNN about you driving it around in any parades
————————————-
Dumb Beeech, do you still have my picture hanging up in your bathroom?
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:17 pm
Beeecham: With the Farmer’s Field deal falling apart, have you called Ed Roski about reserving a skybox at Los Angeles Stadium instead?
Or will they even have proper hookups for the PARTYDUDE? Might need to check that out.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:21 pm
Dumb Beeech’s Party boat is docked in the Kitchen Sink at Arbys, East Sacramento.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:23 pm
4-3 Defense
rookie Houston Bryant Shaughnessy
Wheeler Curry McClain
Chekwa Branch Spencer Bartell
(yes move McClain to outside, Spencer to safety, trade Kelly or Seymour).
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:24 pm
Krappy – the answer is no. I do not have any pictures of Fred Sanford hanging up in my bathroom
So does this mean the shiny red Corvette has been sold to make a mortgage payment on that sweet plot of land in Switzerland?
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:24 pm
qodrn: put me down for Josh Robinson for 95.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:24 pm
I liked the guy until he said that we had a pretty solid LB core.
Re the Gio Conversation: He was hot and cold, but he seemed to have more hot moments than anyone else on the team. Crucial interceptions in the Denver game #1, Jets, Chiefs #2, etc. off of the top of my head. All of them touchdown saving knowing our defense.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:26 pm
Master Beeecham Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:24 pm
So does this mean the shiny red Corvette has been sold to make a mortgage payment on that sweet plot of land in Switzerland?
———————————————
What business is it of yours, Dumb Beeech?
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:27 pm
3-4 defense
Houston NT Seymour
Wheeler McClain Curry rookie
Chekwa Huff Branch Bartell
I still think a rookie will be a starter this season.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:28 pm
RaiderDuck Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:17 pm
Beeecham: With the Farmer’s Field deal falling apart, have you called Ed Roski about reserving a skybox at Los Angeles Stadium instead?
Or will they even have proper hookups for the PARTYDUDE? Might need to check that out.
———————
MC Ducky Duck, I’m not too worried about it.
The Certified Platinum Posse has assured me they’ll lock up a premier luxury box at whatever LA stadium the Raiders relocate to.
I’m also working on a PARTYDUDE prototype that will fit into a briefcase, but still produce unlimited top shelf margs.
The working title is PARTYDUDE BRIEFCASE PROTOTYPE, need to get a patent pending on that
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:28 pm
Nigel Bradham OLB FSU
Ronell Lewis OLB OK
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:28 pm
RaiderRetribution Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:23 pm
(yes move McClain to outside, Spencer to safety, trade Kelly or Seymour).
—————————————–
What makes you think McClain belongs on the outside, his speed?
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:32 pm
Ha Ha, Krappy – I’ll take that as a no!
Old fool, with Al Davis gone, the shiny red Covette sold and the plot of land in Switzerland repossessed, you’ve got nothing to whine on the blog about
Maybe time for another trip to Copenhagen with the Navy buddies, yes?
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:33 pm
@ 95 your Oakland Raiders selected Alameda Ta’amu…
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:33 pm
OUT…1 NATION
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:37 pm
Rockstar,
I’d give you a name for #95, but I don’t have one. There are some players that I like, but I haven’t the slightest idea what the team is going to do on defense next year. On the surface it looks as though we could use someone that could fill the space left by John Henderson; our run defense was much better with him in the game and a younger body could play a lot more snaps. Not sure we have a real slot corner on the roster, either.
I will say this; I’m confident that RM won’t blow the pick. Whomever he selects will contribute right away.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:38 pm
I thought RaiderDebo and Goldie7 were Bronco fan trolls
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:39 pm
Thec Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:28 pm
Ronell Lewis OLB OK
======
Ronnell Lewis* he got it right
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:46 pm
Tarver is going to feature the LB’s on defense, not run from them.
Pain McCLain is back!!!
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:48 pm
Ronnell Lewis* he got it right
++++++++
If chapman and Ta’ amu are off the board I would like to see us go LB…
Davis
Lewis
Bradham
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:49 pm
JFB, Casey Heyward will be off the table at 95….
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:50 pm
Ronnell Lewis would be a good pick.
McClellan will be gone at the beginning of the 2nd round, if not sooner.
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:51 pm
With the #95 pick I want…
NT Josh Chapman
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:54 pm
Can’t wait to hear about our D scheme
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:55 pm
JFB, Casey Heyward will be off the table at 95….
***************************
Instinctive corners often rally on draft weekend.
Just hoping his lack of elite measurables knocks him back.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:01 pm
The best thing about the team now is the owner will not set the roster.
Reggie will bring in the talent and Allen will decide if and where they fit.
The players will be accountable to the coaches and will have to earn their time on the field.
Excited about the changes. Just wished AD would have turned over the reins a few years back so he would have been around to see the new generation Raiders.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:03 pm
Thec Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 3:48 pm
If chapman and Ta’ amu are off the board I would like to see us go LB…
Davis
Lewis
Bradham
===================
Agree
Still getting mixed opinions on Wagner’s stock
Add Kendricks & Wagner to this list
Massaqoui,Wilber good 4th rd prospects
Emannuel Acho,Miles Burris,Danny Trevathan late rounders
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:04 pm
Kendricks and Wagner will be gone in the 2nd round, but Nevada’s James Michael-Johnson might be there at #95.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:04 pm
YA, it says who do you want the Raiders to draft not if they’ll be there at 95 lol… I like Kendricks but McClellan will be on the board longer than Kendricks will….. Talked to Rusty Jones the other day and he said that alot of people are high on Kendricks.. I was pushing for Ta’amu a month or 2 ago but watched the last year of game tape on the guy and found my self questioning his motor…He gives up on alot of plays and looks gassed
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:04 pm
My latest big board:
3rd – NT Josh Chapman, Alabama; OLB Ronnell Lewis, Oklahoma; OLB/ILB Sean Spence, Miami; CB Leonard Johnson, Iowa State; OLB/DE Bruce Irvin, West Virginia; ILB James Michael-Johnson, Nevada; DE Tyrone Crawford, Boise State
4th – OLB Sammy Brown, Houston; FS Janzen Jackson, McNeese State; OT Jeff Allen, Illinois; DE/OLB Jonathan Massaquoi, Troy; ILB/OLB Nigel Bradham, Florida State; OLB Keenan Robinson, Texas; DE/OLB Jake Bequette, Arkansas
5th – DL Akiem Hicks, Regina; DE/OLB Cordarro Law, Southern Miss; DB DeQuan Menzie, Alabama; DE/OLB Julian Miller, West Virginia; NT Damon Harrison, William Penn; CB Asa Jackson, Cal Poly-SLO
5th – DB Robert Blanton, Notre Dame; OLB/ILB Miles Burris, San Diego State; RB Tauren Poole, Tennessee; DE/OLB Frank Alexander, Oklahoma; OT Steven Baker, ECU RB Terrance Ganaway, Baylor; NT Nicolas Jean-Baptiste, Baylor
6th – OT Matt Reynolds, BYU; CB Coty Sensabaugh, Clemson; ILB/OLB Emmanuel Acho, Texas; DE/OLB Brandon Lindsey, Pitt; CB Cliff Harris, Oregon; NT Hebron Fangupo, BYU; WR A.J. Jenkins, Illinois
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:06 pm
If we run a 3-4 than Miles Burris needs to be picked up in the 4th….Can we say BROMANCE
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:06 pm
@RRS
With the #95 pick I want…
NT Josh Chapman
________________________________________________
Me too!
NT at 95!
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:06 pm
McClellan will be on the board longer than Kendricks will…..
———
It’s possible, but McClellan is flying up teams’ draft boards. Some teams are said to have a 1st round grade on him. I see him going in the within the first ten picks of the 2nd round.
Kendricks is a very good player who will get drafted around the same place.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:07 pm
Still getting mixed opinions on Wagner’s stock
+++++++++
BWag will be long gone… would be a steal at 95
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:10 pm
PD81 Mock Draft
3rd) Josh Chapman
4th)Janzen Jackson
5th)Miles Burris
5th)Nicolas Jean Baptiste
6th)Winston Guy Jr.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:17 pm
Any1 home????
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:18 pm
I suspect that if McKenzie has a player that he just has to have and he is available in the early part of third round, he will have a plan to move up. But it will cost us.
If not, then he will sit chilly and take the best that falls to 95. I have no clue who that is.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:19 pm
Yeah, if Reggie sees a guy he thinks his team NEEDS, he’ll move up. But unless that happens, I think the Raiders will stand pat at #95. Nothing wrong with that approach.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:20 pm
In a perfect world?
3) NT Chapman
4) OLB Brown
5) DB Blanton
5) OLB/ILB Burris
6) DE/OLB Alexander
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:22 pm
Well in a perfect world I’d be Rich and own the Raiders and Y/A would be my GM
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:22 pm
Alternatively…
3) OLB Lewis
4) FS Jackson
5) NT Hicks
5) ILB/OLB Burris
6) DE/OLB Alexander
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:24 pm
Who knows. I don’t really know who I want the Raiders to pick at #95 aside from saying that I want it to be the best guy left on the Raiders’ draft board. Who knows what happens before they pick. A guy they might have a 2nd round grade on could free fall to #95 for whatever reason.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:25 pm
The only player that I think we could trade to get a high third would be Ford.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:26 pm
I’d like RG3 and Luke Kuechly and with Mat Kalil and DeCastro with Claiborne but hey my Perfect world is just alil different
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:26 pm
I think the Raiders could package Kelly and a 2013 4th to move up to the mid/late 3rd. Essentially trading the equivalent of two 4th rounders.
But again, I only see that happening if a player they love is inexplicably dangling in front of them, but they’re not convinced he’ll be there at #95.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:27 pm
They were always bigger, faster and stronger than everybody. But the awareness of the game, some of it was down or whatever.
______________________________________________
LMAO! Hear that, McClain?
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:28 pm
That last response by Wheeler is VERY telling. Let’s get some football players in here. About dam time!
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:30 pm
I vote for sticking with what we have and rely on picking up a couple of gems among the undrafted.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:32 pm
Trading Kelly for a mid 3rd rounder is not worth it, imo. Unless they’re still shedding salary. Certainly not for production reasons.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:33 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:26 pm
I think the Raiders could package Kelly and a 2013 4th to move up to the mid/late 3rd. Essentially trading the equivalent of two 4th rounders.
========================================
So you are giving up a Pro Bowl quality DT and a 4th rounder to get who?
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:34 pm
Kelly has outplayed Seymour the last 2 years. Seymour is a leader, but production is more important. His blocked FG’s against KC was huge tho :/
I don’t think Reggie is going to trade for picks, he said he could field a team this Sunday if they had to. Therefore I think he will do best value wise with what they have and then dip into some undrafted FA’s and sort thru everything in camp/pre-season and maybe grab some players he liked from other teams when they are cut.
In other words …. guy like Nick Miller, Sam Williams, Chaz Schilens in the past won’t be allowed to suck up roster space wihtout procduction and value the field.
Ahhhhhhhhhh, a real franchise. finally.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:35 pm
Tommy Kelly is the prototype 3 tech DT in the NFL.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:35 pm
KoolKell Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:32 pm
Trading Kelly for a mid 3rd rounder is not worth it, imo. Unless they’re still shedding salary. Certainly not for production reasons.
————–
They have adequate depth at 3-4 DE and 4-3 UT. Again, if a player they’re in love with is still on the board between 75-85, they should make a move.
Otherwise? Kelly is not a bad piece to have around, but they should look at restructuring him at some point if they still intend on adding depth, especially at QB, LB, and OL. Plus they’ll eventually have to sign their draft picks.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:37 pm
3-Technique (4-3 Pass Rush Tackle) – Tommy Kelly
Probably the most well known of the defensive techniques, the 3-technique lines up shaded to the guard’s outside shoulder, ready to shoot the B-gap on his side of the formation. Various line shifts and defensive schemes have been developed with the express purpose of getting the 3-technique the most beneficial situation possible, which is why guys like Warren Sapp, John Randle, Keith Millard and now Ndamukong Suh have been able to rack-up sack numbers. The 4-3 Under front, discussed in our article on Hybrid defenses, was designed to isolate the weak side guard 1-on-1 with the 3-technique (or under) tackle. This player’s job is to penetrate the line of scrimmage through his B-gap and disrupt plays in the backfield, whether pass or run. Unlike the first two tackle positions, the 3-technique relies far more on speed and agility than brute strength. Oakland’s Tommy Kelly is arguably the NFL’s prototype for the position. At 6’6 and 300lbs he is quick, nimble and has the kind of burst off the ball that can make it tough for a blocker to recover position.
.
Alternative prototypes: Kevin Williams, Shaun Rogers, Kyle Williams
http://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2011/08/12/defensive-line-techniques-the-prototypes/
.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:38 pm
So you are giving up a Pro Bowl quality DT and a 4th rounder to get who?
——————-
Sack numbers are cool and all. Constantly losing the battle against double teams when you’re supposed to be the 1-tech DT? Leaving your gap in pursuit and in turn opening up huge holes in the middle for cutback runners to exploit? Not so much.
But again, he’s not a bad piece to have around. But if the new regime sees a player they can live without within reach, but they don’t think he’ll still be there at #95? I don’t have a problem with them moving up, and Kelly would be the most logical piece to use to make such a move.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:39 pm
43,
I think it makes sense to resign Gio. Capable vet who made some big plays last season. Solid backup who knows how to play the game.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:39 pm
KoolKell Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:35 pm
Tommy Kelly is the prototype 3 tech DT in the NFL.
======================================
This is exactly right. You guys have to get out of the 345lb UT mindset. That was 5 or 6 years. That player now can only get on the field in goal line and short yardage situations. Kelly is a 3 down DT who rushes the passer very well. You guys blame our ren defense woes on him, but it is not his fault. 55, looking at you here.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:39 pm
It does make it interesting. Back when Al was in charge I had an idea of what would happen.
Now, a whole new regime.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:40 pm
I ONLY use the Raiders when I play Madden. Created a spread offense in shotgun 95% of the time. I keep online opponents guessing by using both CP3 and Pryor in the spread. Raider D is weak this year though LOL
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:40 pm
Koolkell
I’m all about putting him at DT. Seymour and Shaunghessy at ends and Houston/Bryant to step in at times.
Allen and Tarver will have fun with tweaking some unique schemes I’m sure. Lamar could play a LB in a 3-4 … he is fast enough and athletic enough
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:41 pm
You guys have to get out of the 345lb UT mindset.
================
UT is what Kelly is. 1-tech DT, or 4-3 NT, is what he plays.
Has nothing to do with his measurables. Everything to do with his style of play.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:41 pm
Twocents Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:18 pm
I suspect that if McKenzie has a player that he just has to have and he is available in the early part of third round, he will have a plan to move up. But it will cost us.
If not, then he will sit chilly and take the best that falls to 95. I have no clue who that is.
****
if we trade up, we can’t use 2012 #3, 4, or any compensatory picks. No matter what, we will use the compensatory picks where they are unless the world blows up, there is a terrorist/ disruption at the draft, or we pass and let another team pick before us. Actually that happened when the Vikings picked DT Kevin Williams
of course April pre-draft and during draft is biggest trade time of year. But it’s hard to get value in trades, the new Reggime likes value, but if the coaches determine that certain players don’t fit new schemes after first ota 4/17-18 or so then those players may be traded anyway for whatever we can get.
CP3 said Knapp wants “to throw a lot of balls over receiver’s heads” apparently lofted touch passes receiver runs under. DHB weak point is tracking the ball, but he could improve here like he has in other areas. DHB is good at catching underneath and running after catch, and I believe Knapp will like that.
A player like Kelly could be worth a lot in a trade in like September if a top contender has a key DL go down to injury or something, but it’s hard to trade these guys and get value in return at this time of year
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:42 pm
Giordano would make sense. Affordable veteran depth, good locker room guy, experience with Dennis Allen. As far as I’m aware, the Raiders only have Michael Huff at FS currently.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:42 pm
They have adequate depth at 3-4 DE and 4-3 UT. Again, if a player they’re in love with is still on the board between 75-85, they should make a move.
———————————-
Who could you be in love with, at bet 75-85, who’s going to be more valuable than TK?
So Dez Bryant replaces Kelly if traded, then where does the UT depth, go?
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:42 pm
They have adequate depth at 3-4 DE and 4-3 UT.
=================================
They only have Bryant, Kelly and Seymour. Houston is a DE/DT replacement.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:42 pm
KoolKell Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:32 pm
Trading Kelly for a mid 3rd rounder is not worth it, imo. Unless they’re still shedding salary. Certainly not for production reasons.
===========================================
At this stage of his career, Kelly is probably a 4-3 DT only. He doesn’t really have a position in the 3-4.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:44 pm
Tommy Kelly kicks @ss. You guys are crazy. I realize he’s a been a presence on some poor run Ds, but I blame that more on simplistic schemes, sub-par DCs and very poor MLB play. Last two years TK has been one of the best around.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:44 pm
They only have Bryant, Kelly and Seymour. Houston is a DE/DT replacement.
————————-
Bryant, Kelly, Seymour, and Houston all play the same position. 3-tech DT. Houston, in my opinion, is a little out of position at LDE because he doesn’t offer much as an edge rusher. Better disrupting plays from the inside.
All four of these guys could also translate to 5-tech DE in 3-4 looks.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:47 pm
Who could you be in love with, at bet 75-85, who’s going to be more valuable than TK?
==================
Ask the GM. Like I said, personally I’m comfortable picking at #95. But players inexplicably fall in the draft all the time. Coaches see things in some players that other coaches don’t. Some players do things that fits exactly what a coach wants to do. Worst thing any GM can do is have no plan whatsoever for such a contingency.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:47 pm
When you are now going to face Peyton Manning at least twice a year, and Phillip Rivers, you HAVE to have guys that can rush up the middle. Those two negate outside rushers with their quick releases. And we don’t have outside rushers any ways. So getting rid of Kelly and Seymour would be absolutely disastrous. Unless you are going to replace them with a Willfork or Nndamakung Suh.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:50 pm
Not crazy about going with a ton of 3-4 this year. Unless Goethel proves really good and everyone stays healthy I don’t see how we have the LBs to make that our primary look. Maybe we’ll see more of Mike Mitchell in some kind of hybrid LB/S role this year in a pseudo 3-4.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:51 pm
Bryant, Kelly, Seymour, and Houston all play the same position. 3-tech DT.
=======================================
This is true. But to get a true UT, you would then have to sign another player, who would come in on passing downs. Or just keep Kelly, even tho he is slightly out of position.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:52 pm
I haven’t seen ANY signs of the Defense going 3-4, based on roster moves, so far.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:52 pm
On the other hand, don’t have much faith in McClain in a 4-3 so I’m not sure which way to go.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:53 pm
KoolKell Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:52 pm
I haven’t seen ANY signs of the Defense going 3-4, based on roster moves, so far.
==============
It’s not a matter of “going 3-4″ or “staying 4-3″. They’re going to play both. That’s what good defenses do. You have to have versatility on defense if you want to compete with QBs like Peyton Manning.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:54 pm
The Raiders have a roster of big-fast, explosive defensive lineman. Why go 3-4?
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:54 pm
I haven’t seen ANY signs of the Defense going 3-4, based on roster moves, so far.
_______________________________________________________
Raiders bringing in Sammy Brown
http://bayarea.sbnation.com/oakland-raiders/2012/4/2/2920074/2012-nfl-draft-oakland-raiders-scheduled-to-meet-with-houston
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:55 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:53 pm
It’s not a matter of “going 3-4″ or “staying 4-3″. They’re going to play both. That’s what good defenses do. You have to have versatility on defense if you want to compete with QBs like Peyton Manning.
—————————————-
It’s true, I’m getting older, but I don’t know of any defenses that play both 4-3, 3-4?
You, who?
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:58 pm
It’s true, I’m getting older, but I don’t know of any defenses that play both 4-3, 3-4?
You, who?
===============
Patriots, Ravens, 49ers, Dolphins (soon the Falcons under Mike Nolan), Texans, Jets, Bills… I’m sure the list goes on.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:58 pm
DutchRaider77 Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:54 pm
I haven’t seen ANY signs of the Defense going 3-4, based on roster moves, so far.
_______________________________________________________
Raiders bringing in Sammy Brown
http://bayarea.sbnation.com/oakland-raiders/2012/4/2/2920074/2012-nfl-draft-oakland-raiders-scheduled-to-meet-with-houston
—————————————
Nice post, Lol. we’ll see.
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:59 pm
Tuesday, Nike unveils our new jersey!!
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:04 pm
Patriots, Ravens, 49ers, Dolphins (soon the Falcons under Mike Nolan), Texans, Jets, Bills… I’m sure the list goes on.
————————————
Those are all 3-4 teams
http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/lineups.htm
I don’t know how much 4-3 they play, if any. I don’t see how you can have a roster fit for both.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:06 pm
More and more we see weird defensive alignments and offenses going to a no huddle scheme.
I think Tarver is up to the task, at least I hope.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:08 pm
YoungAmerican Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:44 pm
Bryant, Kelly, Seymour, and Houston all play the same position. 3-tech DT. Houston, in my opinion, is a little out of position at LDE because he doesn’t offer much as an edge rusher. Better disrupting plays from the inside.
All four of these guys could also translate to 5-tech DE in 3-4 looks.
*********
I agree. Lots of talented players with somewhat similar styles, but underproductive in past. I think creative new defensive coaches will shuffle the deck more than we may imagine. Seymour’s knees may last longer at DE. I think Tommy Kelly (and the others mentioned) could fit well as 3-4 DE. As far as edge rush, LDE is usually on strong side, and is usually a guy who can hold the point vs run (and preferrably provide a strong pass rush too; often more of a power rusher). The best edge rusher is usually RDE in 4-3. Of course, Robert Mathis played LDE for Colts for last 8-9 years or so, and he’s obviously an edge rusher.
I also think if RDE Sho’Nasty is healthy he should be a 10 sack a year guy. Not certain if he fits a 3-4 though, a little stiff for a hybrid but he’s a baller.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:09 pm
KoolKell Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:04 pm
Patriots, Ravens, 49ers, Dolphins (soon the Falcons under Mike Nolan), Texans, Jets, Bills… I’m sure the list goes on.
————————————
Those are all 3-4 teams
http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/lineups.htm
I don’t know how much 4-3 they play, if any. I don’t see how you can have a roster fit for both.
==================
They’re not exclusively 3-4 teams. The Ravens and Patriots in particular use a myriad of defensive looks. The Patriots played a lot of 4-3 with Mark Anderson at RDE, and Wilfork and Warren at DT on the inside. They could also use Ninkovich with his hand on the ground.
The Ravens do the same thing. Ngata plays DT and DE, Jarrett Johnson and Terrell Suggs played DE and OLB.
The 49ers let Aldon Smith line up at RDE and move Justin Smith to DT.
Teams build their rosters for that kind of flexibility. It’s pretty common in the league now. Even Mike Nolan, who everyone regards as THE 3-4 guy, uses 4-3 looks about half the time. Belichick, another “3-4 guy” used 4-3 looks more often than 3-4 for the last couple seasons.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:14 pm
Check out our new jersey!
http://www.nikejerseygo.com/pic/NFL-Okaland-Raiders–2320-Darren-McFadden-Lights-Out-Black-Jersey-3174-84122.jpg
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:18 pm
OK, YA.
—————–
As Lewis aged, he wasn’t able to cover the entire field, and the Ravens’ defense needed to evolve. They had the perfect solution… the 3-4 defense. The 3-4 defense took pressure off Lewis, but still allowed him to dominate in run defense. The Ravens have never really used a conventional 3-4 defense. In fact, the Ravens never really switched to a 3-4 defense per se. It was a slow metamorphosis that started with Mike Nolan’s innovations and was ultimately perfected by Rex Ryan. Even today, the Ravens do not run a strict 3-4 defense. The system that they pioneered has become known as a “hybrid” defense because of its ability to shift between 3-4 and 4-3 looks.
In this article, we’re going to get an overview of the Ravens’ hybrid defense. The system is so complex that a complete analysis could fill many hundred pages, but an overview should help everyone understand the basic principles behind this highly innovative and effective defensive scheme. We’ll look at the different positions and the preferred player types and hopefully, discover the factors that make the hybrid defense successful.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:19 pm
RaiderRockStar, would like our #95 pick to be Sean Spence from the U.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:20 pm
Crap!,…was hoping that old failed realtor Kell was at that school to become a nurse,..bummer you werent there old man. Lol, just another day in the Easdt Bay! LMAO
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:26 pm
@YA
Scott labeled the 4-3 a “dying trend,” but few think that the 3-4 will phase the 4-3 out of the ever-cycling N.F.L. Instead, the Jets’ take on the 3-4 is likely to become more prevalent.
Pettine said the Jets’ defensive coaches laughed when their concept is labeled a 3-4. He estimated that they ran a true version of it, similar to the Patriots’ base defense, on about 10 percent of their defensive snaps.
Instead, the Jets consider themselves multiple. They fill their roster with 3-4 personnel, but they run plays based on situations and matchups. Sometimes, their defense features no linemen. Sometimes, they drop linemen into coverage. Or blitz safeties. Or trot out eight defensive backs.
The key is confusion, and the key to the confusion is the Jets’ weak-side outside linebacker, whom they call the Rush. The Jets view their Rush as someone with a defensive end’s skills who can drop into coverage. But the Rush, occupied by players like Calvin Pace, Jason Taylor and Bryan Thomas, is primarily a pass rusher. The Rush is more linebacker than defensive end, but the goal remains the same — the quarterback.
This confusion forces opponents into extra practice time. If they like a certain running play, they must practice it against the six fronts the Jets might use.
“If there’s a front out there, more than likely, we run it,” Pettine said. “The biggest thing is staying multiple, running what works and constantly creating and evolving.”
Even if that means more phone calls.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/19/sports/football/19jets.html
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:27 pm
YA, thanks for learnin me something, young feller.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:30 pm
AmysInCharge Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:20 pm
Crap!,…was hoping that old failed realtor Kell was at that school to become a nurse,..bummer you werent there old man. Lol, just another day in the Easdt Bay!
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What a horrible thing to say, Narco Boob.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:30 pm
Sorry old fatboy, but we got a good laugh out of the latest news from your hood. Must be nice to live in such a sophisticated metropolis.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:33 pm
Fatboy……6-3, 178 ????
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:34 pm
Omg they just gave a description of the shooter,..I think its Tim Kawakami!!!…anyway, 7 dead, and the local housecats are high-fiving themselves tonight.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:36 pm
Hmmm,..first he gives us the place where he pretends to work,.then posts a pic of some dude he married, now giving us his personal stats as well,..look old man, I know you came late to the internet game, but really, you should scale back all the personal info. Born stupid and never got any smarter.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:37 pm
Whatever dumbass troll, Narco Boob, Stalker Esq.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:39 pm
Oh simmer down fatboy,…we just joking,..its been a good day out here in the sticks, seeing how the sophisticates behave themselves on a monday. LMAO
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:43 pm
AmysInCharge Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:39 pm
Oh simmer down fatboy,…we just joking,..its been a good day out here in the sticks, seeing how the sophisticates behave themselves on a monday. LMAO
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You’d like to see everybody down at your level in the gutters, yes?
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:44 pm
Cork, you better watch out, Levi Damien is kicking your rocks.
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:47 pm
If where I live is the gutter,…lol…put it this way old fatboy, YOU walk around here YOU get watched til YOU leave town. (Dont wear a hoodie or you dont leave town the way you came)
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:50 pm
AmysInCharge Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:47 pm
If where I live is the gutter,…lol…put it this way old fatboy, YOU walk around here YOU get watched til YOU leave town. (Dont wear a hoodie or you dont leave town the way you came)
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Huh, dumbass?
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:50 pm
KoolKell Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 5:27 pm
YA, thanks for learnin me something, young feller.
————–
Any time. I just enjoy talking football with you guys. Lots of good insight around here, in spite of some of the crazier folks. But even the crazy is occasionally entertaining.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:04 pm
@ Rockstar
I’m a life long Raider fan up here in Seattle. I Went to CSM for a few years so I lived in they bay and have been to many games. I am also a huge UW fan. Alameda when 100% has been a beast. So thats my pick nation. That’s wassup!
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:04 pm
Whats the matter now old fatboy?…you upset again?…what is it now?…you seem to always have issues with others comments here,..why is that?…maybe the years and years youve been here on a daily basis instead of getting listings has worn you out,…LMAO.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:06 pm
Thanks Kool Kell for all the info on multiple defenses.
it’s been nothing but really boring defense for Raiders last few decades with AD as de facto Defensive Coordinator
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:07 pm
Thats right Alzado, nobody can Google/Cutandpaste like old fatboy Kell.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:11 pm
4-3 or 3-4 ?
Hmmmmm.
Let’s see…
The deepest position on the Raid D appears to be the DLine.
The thinnest position appears to be LB.
That, in and of itself should answer the question.
As for those that seem to believe that moving Slow to ILB in a 3-4 will magically transform him from a non-hustling slug with an attitude to a player worthy of wearing the Silver and Black, think again.
There are defining moments in a player’s career – both on and off the field.
Slow’s defining moments thus far have been abysmal and embarrassing.
The ‘JOG’ after FJax in Buffalo was disgraceful.
The ‘WHIFF’ on Stafford was absolutely pathetic.
The ‘GUN PLAY’ in Bama was the epitome of stupidity and a slap in the face to the organization.
Slow, due to his draft status and the fact that the LB corp is so depleted, gets another chance to do a 180 degree turn around and show the Nation he’s not a complete washout.
I have zero confidence that this young man will turn things around.
In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him benched for non-performance or disciplinary reasons.
Slow is a torpedo that can sink the Raider ship.
Or he can make detractors like myself eat crow and actually make an impact and contribute to improving a defense that desperately needs some leadership and play makers.
My guess (and I hope I’m wrong) is that by the end of 2012, even JFB will be joining the chorus of Raider fans singing…
SLOW MUST GO.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:12 pm
Tarver (a 3-4 guy) and Allen (a 4-3 guy) should have some interesting things cooked up.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see Wheeler rushing from the LOLB spot in 3-4 looks.
A late-round player like Frank Alexander can play both 4-3 DE spots, and has played OLB a bit too. Would bolster the bottom of the depth chart at two positions.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:13 pm
4-3 or 3-4 ?
=========
Again, it’s not a question of 4-3 or 3-4.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:13 pm
Chris In NY Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:44 pm
Tommy Kelly kicks @ss. You guys are crazy. I realize he’s a been a presence on some poor run Ds, but I blame that more on simplistic schemes, sub-par DCs and very poor MLB play. Last two years TK has been one of the best around.
*****
poor run defense, poorly run defense, boring defense.
Hope to get better soon
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:14 pm
Dont trip Raiderman,..that ghetto trash that fired off the gun down south wont be on the roster in a month or so.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:15 pm
Tommy Kelly is the best D lineman in Oakland. Sucks for him he has to line up next to bums.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:16 pm
To be fair, TK looked like a bum for all but one of his seasons as a pro until Seymour lined up next to him.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:16 pm
To be fair youre an idiot.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:17 pm
Solid football analysis. I would like to purchase a subscription to your newsletter.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:18 pm
Sho thang ese, wants my twitter feed? #Justask
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:26 pm
RAIDERMAN99, 174
SLOW MUST DEFINITELY GO….
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:28 pm
Sometimes you also have to appreciate what you have (and get a real DC who can use what you have).
A lot of “glamour” DTs in NFL in recent years are lazy prima donnas who are good at best every other year and otherwise fat out of shape injured or underproducer. Some get payed up the ying yang (even by GMs/owners other than Al Davis) after 1 good year (eg Albert Haynesworth). How many productive years did Shaun Rogers or Kris Jenkins really have? Dominant one year, disappear the next. Some teams getting wise and getting blue collar depth instead of $uperman
Seymour is getting more brittle as he ages and not always consistent and sure Al overpayed him but he got Kelly motivated and has done a lot for the team and played well when healthy. I do wish he’d cut out some of the penalties at the wrong time. But if we were frustrated, imagine how a competitor like Seymour must have felt
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:29 pm
Twocents Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 4:25 pm
The only player that I think we could trade to get a high third would be Ford.
*************************
If the guy we get is not better than the guy we traded, then that is a bad deal. What is the likelihood that a third round pick is going to bring more to the table than Ford? The answer is highly unlikely so enough with this crazy talk of trading one of our starting WR’s. It’s not like Ford is a one trick pony or beyond the halfway point of his likely career duration. It makes no sense to trade good talent just to have something to do.
So we don’t have a bundle of draft picks this time around. So what? Get over it. We’ll be just fine. Don’t fix something that doesn’t need fixing.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:30 pm
JB,..Alzado, youre wanted on the next page,..hurry.
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:32 pm
AmysInCharge Says:
April 2nd, 2012 at 6:30 pm
JB,..Alzado, youre wanted on the next page,..hurry.
****
nobody wants me on any page
already checked next page just a boring reminder of live chat tomorrow.
I’m staying here
April 2nd, 2012 at 7:17 pm
[...] Philip Wheeler Q&A A transcription of linebacker Philip Wheeler’s conference call with Bay Area media Monday: [...]
April 2nd, 2012 at 10:07 pm
RaiderRockstar: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Carl Weathers: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
R8ER MIKE: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
CJ Legend 34: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
RaiderDuck: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
PlunkforHOF: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
HairyBush: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Silverandblack666: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Fingers: Josh Chapman (Alabama)
Guest123: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Poprox13: Demarco Davis (Arkansas State)
Just Fire Baby: Casey Heyward (Vandy)
R8eray: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Hwnrdr: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
DMAC: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Thec: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Jesusraiderjim: Alameda Ta’amu (Washington)
Raider O: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
RaiderRetribution: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
DJ Johnny: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
Hardline: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
No Mas Diamante: Mychal Kendricks (Cal)
Bcz24: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Antispy3: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Blackmamba_20: Sammy Brown (Houston U)
Raiderinparadise: Keenan Robinson (Texas)
Raiderzmaverick: Sean Spence (Miami U)
Da Trinity: Sean Spence (Miami U)
DIRT-LOT FOOTBALL: Tyrone Crawford (Boise St)
JLofty: Trumaine Johnson (Montana)
LA to TheBay: Josh Robinson (USF)
RaidO: Josh Robinson (USF)
SilverNBlackPA: Derek Wolfe (Cincinnati)
Raiderman99: Isaiah Pead (Cincinnati)
Dakota: Ladarius Green (Louisiana-Lafayette)
Deja vu: Nigel Bradham (Florida State)
The Oracle: Nigel Bradham (FSU)
Raider Dell: Bruce Irvin (West Virginia)
ToneMcFresh: Bruce Irvin (West Virginia)
Tjbwall: Ronnell Lewis (Oklahoma U)
PurpleDrank81: Shea McClellin (Boise State)
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
added Bradham-FSU
April 2nd, 2012 at 10:59 pm
raiderlization on ps3 if you choose to die by the Bomb!lol
April 2nd, 2012 at 11:01 pm
Chapman @ 95 !
April 2nd, 2012 at 11:04 pm
Seymour is getting more brittle as he ages and not always consistent and sure Al overpayed him but he got Kelly motivated and has done a lot for the team and played well when healthy.
______________________
i believe he’ll be healthy this year. with a pick like Chapman, he can certainly take more plays off, especially when you consider Bryant will be taking many snaps as well(perhaps more than both of them). we need Seymour to come in on passing downs to get penetration on the pocket… keeping him fresh is key in order to keep Manning from torching us downfield!
April 2nd, 2012 at 11:05 pm
i meant keeping him fresh down the final stretches of the season. not banged up and at 50% health. i’d like to see him get more downs off instead of being depended on to do so much(stuffing the run as well as rush the passer)
April 3rd, 2012 at 7:21 am
With the 95th pick in the draft, The Raiders take RB Robert Turbin, Utah State.
April 3rd, 2012 at 8:44 am
With the #95 pick in the 2012 draft the Raiders pick…..
Josh Chapman… Dt Alabama
The Raiders make this pick for two reasons
1) A true nose tackle is something this team desperately needs… And Reggie has a history of picking a true nose tackle when you look at BJ Raji
2) Getting a true nose tackle makes Kelly and Seymour much more expendable next year when we have to reanalyze their contracts
3) Josh Chapman will fall to us because he is injured… And players that are injured usually fall to later rounds
April 3rd, 2012 at 8:48 am
new post.
April 3rd, 2012 at 8:52 am
I would like to be the staff person who gets to invite Alameda to Alameda if he comes for a visit. Somehow, he must be destined to be a Raider..
April 3rd, 2012 at 8:58 am
Whats up Nation! New Poster here, Love the attitude and dedication i see on this site from my Brothers in Silver and Black. Does anyone else think David Molk would be a good pick in the 5th or 6th Round?
April 3rd, 2012 at 9:29 am
What up Jabels1488, I’m a fairly new poster as well. I’m not sure who will be there that late in the draft.
I still feel like we need to address the following positions (in this order): DT, CB, LB, RB, TE, OL, and back-up Safety. I feel like we have enough young WR’s and our Safeties are solid but not much depth. IMO our DT’s are getting older and more expensive we have to address that position. Also our LB’s and CB’s are very thin. I love the Curry and Wheeler signings, both speed LB’s that fly and lay the hat! still need some depth though especially if we plan on mixing in some 3-4.
April 3rd, 2012 at 9:30 am
Actually with Goodsen trade you can take RB’s off that list. Mcfadden, Goodsen and Taiwon are decent enough for this year.