Raiders sign center Miller
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Tuesday, May 8th, 2012 at 9:58 am in Oakland Raiders.
Center Colin Miller signed a free agent contract with the Raiders Tuesday, providing depth a position where they are thin behind projected starter Stefen Wisniewski.
Miller, 6-foot-3, 300 pounds, was with the Pittsburgh Steelers last year in training camp. He was signed by the Steelers as an undrafted free agent out of Central Michigan.
[You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.]
May 8th, 2012 at 9:58 am
1st ?
May 8th, 2012 at 10:00 am
your new backup C ?
http://www.nfldraftbible.com/Draft-Bible-Q-A/qaa-colin-miller-central-michigan.html
May 8th, 2012 at 10:02 am
Biography: Four-year starter who spent most of his career at center while also being used at left guard as a sophomore. All-Conference selection the past two years.
Positives: “Explosive offensive lineman who plays a smart brand of football. Plays low to the ground, bends his knees, and blocks with leverage. Explodes off the snap, quickly gets his hands into defenders, and fights with them throughout the action. Fires out to the second level, engaging linebackers than sealing them from the action. Quarterbacks the offensive line and effectively works with teammates.”
Negatives: “Bends at the waist, plays stiff, and struggles finishing blocks. Lacks great size and strength and not a lineman who overpowers defenders.”
Analysis: Miller has been a terrific lineman at Central Michigan and possesses all the skills necessary to be a reserve guard or center for a zone blocking team.
Projection: FA
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/draft-2011/players/55607.html
May 8th, 2012 at 10:03 am
Bo Schembechler Jackson Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 10:02 am
Sullivan44 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 9:32 am
For years veterans came here to take it easy, because they knew Al Davis wouldn’t allow the coaches to crack down on them.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Witness DMAC jacking the team around last year, while we were poised to make the playoffs for the first time in a decade.
Reg better not tolerate quitters like Al did. Wanna sit 9 games with a hangnail? Fine him. Refuse meds? Fine him.
DMAC has only one more chance. Reg better keep a fire lit under his pansy ass.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:04 am
Miller was a four-year starter at Central Michigan. Virtually every scouting report out here on him touts his experience as a major advantage. He is also a team captain.
Miller isn’t projected to be drafted and NFL Draft Scout rates him the 19th best center in the 2011 NFL Draft.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:09 am
Colin Miller started at center for four years and brings a ton of experience to the table. He took home the top bench press on Pro Day as he churned out 32 reps of 225 pounds. Both the Jacksonville Jaguars and Kansas City Chiefs showed interest in Miller, and his experience played a major part in his performance.
“The process went real smooth, I’ve been here and watch the last four Pro Day’s at CMU, so I knew what I was getting into and what the experience would be like,” said Miller. “Guys just kept telling me to keep your head up and keeping push on.
http://www.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1200600
May 8th, 2012 at 10:13 am
RMac’s moves have shown that no one is safe in the organization, no matter who they are, no matter how long they’ve been there.
***
@Dave
no more scholarships!!
I like it
May 8th, 2012 at 10:17 am
Man, training camp can’t get here soon enough.
I don’t know how Steve even gets through the weekly chats this time of year since there’s really nothing to “chat” about.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:18 am
Ryan Grant cancelled his visit with the Lions because they aren’t offering enough money – John Clayton
***
I guess we’re to assume he won’t play for the vet minimum?
Ryan Grant doesn’t belong in Oakland. Clearly thinks he’s better than he is and the Raiders don’t have much cap room.
I’ll still take Benson or Tomlinson if they are willing to play for peanuts. Get’em on the phone, Reggie!
May 8th, 2012 at 10:18 am
Good ZBS backup:
Analysis: Miller has been a terrific lineman at Central Michigan and possesses all the skills necessary to be a reserve guard or center for a zone blocking team.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/nfl/draft-2011/players/55607.html
May 8th, 2012 at 10:23 am
Reg bettet be on dem “pansy players”! Your on point bo, with that one!
May 8th, 2012 at 10:26 am
I don’t know how Steve even gets through the weekly chats this time of year since there’s really nothing to “chat” about.
***
vet free agents. undrafted kids. rookies. Branch’s tender. Reece’s contract status. the scouting dept. Kelly at 3-4 NT. camp opens later this week.
plenty to discuss in the Live Chat, but many of the same questions will be asked & answered. sort of frustrating. I wish the Live Chat wasn’t so “live”. It would be nice if Steve could spend a little more time picking the right questions, some of which aren’t even Raiders related. Lots of duplication. Some guys just looking for attention. Would be cool if there was a time frame to submit questions on Tuesday, then he would post a Top 20 questions answered on Thursday or something. Would be much more informative and would give him a little more time for research. Last week he reported that Dallas Clark was signed in the chat, when somebody asked if he was a player we should consider bringing in. It was just a visit with the Chiefs (he remains un-signed)
May 8th, 2012 at 10:30 am
Reggie creating competition. I like the move, since I’d prefer Wiz only play Center in a backup role.
Go Raiders!
May 8th, 2012 at 10:32 am
Reggie creating competition. I like the move, since I’d prefer Wiz only play Center in a backup role.
***
J,
Wiz is your starting C, bro.
thats why Carlisle & Bergstrom are competing for the LG spot next to Veldheer.
Miller offers depth behind Wiz and competition for Alex Parsons …
May 8th, 2012 at 10:37 am
Depth is always good! So is competition…because we all know that sometimes a drafted player isn’t always better! But it is good to see Reggie signing guys!
May 8th, 2012 at 10:37 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 10:32 am
Reggie creating competition. I like the move, since I’d prefer Wiz only play Center in a backup role.
***
J,
Wiz is your starting C, bro.
thats why Carlisle & Bergstrom are competing for the LG spot next to Veldheer.
Miller offers depth behind Wiz and competition for Alex Parsons …
**********
Good call. I posted before reading your scouting report.
In Reggie we trust.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:40 am
Jon Alston was a linebacker for the Oakland Raiders for three seasons, from 2007 through 2009. After experiencing four concussions over a 12 month period, Alston decided to leave the game for good, deciding the risk of injury to his brain was no longer worth the rewards that an NFL career can bring.
Alston explained what can happen to a football player with Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. He remarked, “If your identity is in football and you’re leaving, I don’t care if you’re a college or pro athlete, it’s the love of your life. You’re going to experience a depression. It’s like a divorce. Now imagine that with CTE, and trying to transition into another world. Depression is real, and with CTE it’s exacerbated. If your brain is damaged and you don’t talk to someone, you might not even be aware of what’s going on when you go to those dark places because of what’s going on in your brain. It’s going to be a very tough fight.
Alston hopes that through advanced technology helmets will change for the better. He asked, ” Is it possible for someone to come up with a helmet that stops the brain from being jolted? I don’t know, but there area a lot of smart people out there right now and it’s going to be a very profitable business.”
By K.C. Dermody | Yahoo! Contributor Network – 21 hours ago
***
I was wondering what ever happened to this guy!!
May 8th, 2012 at 10:41 am
Reg better not tolerate quitters like Al did. Wanna sit 9 games with a hangnail? Fine him. Refuse meds? Fine him.
*************
1. It is against the NFL rules to fine someone for the reasons you just suggested
2. Lisfranc injury is just a hangnail huh? The problem was that he wasn’t IR’ed immediately, and held on the roster ‘in case’ we made the playoffs. Truth is you SHOULD be made at the organization for lying to you (and don’t just blame Hue for that, the whole org was using the DMAC might be back rhetoric to sell tickets) not at DMAC for not playing on an injury that he COULDNT PLAY ON!!!!
Some of you guys are crazy man, b1tching about athletes not playing through injury. How many times have you called in sick to work you hypocrite.
FYI. EVERY player that has a Lisfranc gets IR’ed, it ain’t DMACs fault they lied to you to sell more tickets.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:41 am
Depth is always good! So is competition…because we all know that sometimes a drafted player isn’t always better!
***
Agreed, Hwnrdr!
May 8th, 2012 at 10:42 am
Bo Schembechler Jackson, 4
Bo,
Thank God someone has some common sense around here. I have been saying since the season ended we should have traded DMAC for a 2nd round draft pick. DMAC ran right through lower tier, non-playoff bound teams but was thwarted and choked off by higher tier, playoff bound teams, looking very medoicre.
Many people here poo-pooed the idea that M. Bush was a close second to DMAC; now they are looking around wondering, “where’s all the RB’s?” DMAC will go down then we’ll be left with untested runners.
If DMAC goes down early in the season, it will be the last he plays for the Raiders since it is his contract year. Dude aint tough and never will be.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:48 am
@bcz
same thing happened to Jason Campbell. He was done for the season and everybody knew it. We had just traded for Carson Palmer. That obviously wasn’t about the tickets.
Same thing with Nick Miller stealing a roster spot for 15 weeks a few years back.
Either we had TERRIBLE trainers or we were hoping to have these guys back in time for the playoffs.
If we made the playoffs and Palmer gets hurt, yet Campbell is healthy enough to play I’m sure everybody would have loved to see him in there over Kyle Boller.
Same thing with DMAC. Hue said he was ready to play a few days after the Week 17 loss. To me that means he would have been healthy enough to play in the playoffs. Odd that he wasn’t 100% until April, but he would have played anyway back in January. Doesn’t sound like a quitter to me.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:49 am
Nick Miller…Rockstar, did you just puke typing that? LOL
May 8th, 2012 at 10:50 am
Disagree very firmly about McFadden … he is a top tier RB when healthy against ANY defense, his line has never been great and this year he will see the best line in front of him, best QB under center, and best WR core to keep defenses honest and a versatile FB that has to be accounted for outside of his blocking game on the edges that pairs well with McFadden on the stretch plays. His injuries are no surprise, I don’t think he will ever play all 16+ games, but in 2010 he played 13 an I think that is a solid number for any starting RB in this league.
I predicted last year he would be in offesnive MVP ranks and through week 6 he was in that discussion #1 in league in rushing and #1 in rec yards for RB’s. Then his injury came :/
You gotta hold on in the new zone blocking scheme and see his #’s will be special.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:50 am
I’ll still take Benson or Tomlinson if they are willing to play for peanuts. Get’em on the phone, Reggie!
*********
We don’t need em. The running game will be a product of the successful implementation of the ZBS. Fix the line and put joe whoever in the backfield and rip off 5 yards per carry. Benson and LT2 can kick rocks!
May 8th, 2012 at 10:52 am
Just based on his past comments alone, LT2 can kick rocks! And hope he breaks a toe in doing so!
May 8th, 2012 at 10:54 am
DMAC ran right through lower tier, non-playoff bound teams but was thwarted and choked off by higher tier, playoff bound teams, looking very medoicre.
***
@Hardline
that has a lot to do with your FB, O-Line, play caller and ability to pass the ball.
It’s not as simple as you make it sound!
DMAC does not shy away from contact. He’s 10 times the player Bush was. Only concern is his health.
If that checks out, we’ve got a Pro Bowler and the Raiders just made the playoffs for the first time in almost 10 years
Jones & Goodson also have injury concerns. Neither has proven anything. Benson would be a good pickup imo. Would be a suitable replacement for Bush. Goodson isn’t
May 8th, 2012 at 10:54 am
Like the Pope blowing kisses to the little people Jerry drops news on the fellas.
Doh.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:55 am
Jon Alston is a very smart man. I guess that Stanford education is paying off. You can have all the money in the world but you can’t do jack without a healthy body and mind.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:57 am
Never seen or read about this guy Colin Miller but we surely need depth in our C position. Miller is coming from the Steelers trunk of players(practice squad). The Steelers are stacked with a really good “play makers” Roster(I wish crazy James Harrison was a FA) therefore I like this signing.
May 8th, 2012 at 10:57 am
Thanks for thee update Mr. Jer.! Good looking out!
May 8th, 2012 at 10:58 am
The running game will be a product of the successful implementation of the ZBS. Fix the line and put joe whoever in the backfield and rip off 5 yards per carry
***
@G123
I’ll buy that. I always just think “worst case scenario” in my mind
McFadden hurt. Jones hurt. Goodson a fumble machine.
then what?
we’re on the phone with future roster cuts or practice squaders Lonyae Miller, Brandon Rutley & Rashawn Jackson asking them to come fill in [not ideal]
May 8th, 2012 at 10:59 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 10:13 am
RMac’s moves have shown that no one is safe in the organization, no matter who they are, no matter how long they’ve been there.
***
@Dave
no more scholarships!!
I like it
+++++++++++++++++++
So do I. So do I.
I’d love to see the Raiders run like a normal organization with a direct purpose. This is what I’m seeing.
Contrary to popular opinion the Raiders of the 60’s and 70’s under Al had a been run like a normal organization with a direct purpose.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:00 am
Nick Miller…Rockstar, did you just puke typing that?
***
LOL @ Hwnrdr
it did trigger my gag reflex
May 8th, 2012 at 11:02 am
Just a hunch, but last year’s lizfranc injury behind him, I expect DMC to tear it up Pro-Bowl style this year and don’t expect to hear either Jones or Goodson’s names called a lot this year. All this injury concern is much overblown fellas…
DMC puts in 14 solid games, and plays a half in each of weeks 16 and 17.
AFC Championship!
May 8th, 2012 at 11:03 am
What’s with the DMAC hate, folks? He was the top rusher when healthy last year and the main reason we got off to a good start.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:04 am
Guest123 – I approve of your message.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:06 am
I’d be very surprised if McFadden stays healthy for more than 8 games next season. Very, very surprised.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:07 am
Nick Miller the DB killer
Have a good afternoon Nation!~
May 8th, 2012 at 11:09 am
DA prevaricating even now when asked about DMAC’s foot shows how full of bullcookies Hue really was.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:10 am
@37,
8 games is DMC’s over/under? I’d bet the over and bet the farm. Why the doubt? He’s still only 25 yo. All reports are good so far. It looks like he’s back and the only injury he has to worry about is the one he has yet to encounter. Why so doom/gloom?
May 8th, 2012 at 11:11 am
I expect DMC to tear it up Pro-Bowl style this year and don’t expect to hear either Jones or Goodson’s names called a lot this year. All this injury concern is much overblown fellas
***
@G123
I hope you’re right. teams can’t stack the box with Palmer at QB. They could do that with Campbell, Gradkowski, Russell, etc. Force us to try and beat them thru the air with scrub QB’s. Unfortunately, Palmer & DMAC never got to play together last year.
I think we’re going to be the #1 rushing team in the NFL in 2012. Knapp has an excellent track record there. Palmer won’t have to force as many throws (less INT’s). Dumb penalties will be reduced in half. no more scholarships. discipline installed. outdated defensive schemes replaced. I’m excited for this season to start. I think our offense is going to be a juggernaut. Our defense will be average versus both the run and pass, which will still be a drastic improvement over last year’s squad.
2012 Raiders = 12-4
May 8th, 2012 at 11:12 am
Nick Miller was a nice addition to the St Louis Rams special teams last year. He did more for them than he ever did for us.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:12 am
I believe team work is gonna get it done this year! Something that really hasn’t happened since 2003…
Discipline on plays…whew…imagine that?
May 8th, 2012 at 11:14 am
nobody thought Chaz Schilens could ever stay healthy either.
Last year he proved everybody wrong, health wise.
Healthy for 16 games, active for 15 of them.
Didn’t have the season everybody quite envisioned, but still landed a decent gig as #2 WR for the Jets !!
May 8th, 2012 at 11:15 am
I hope you’re right. teams can’t stack the box with Palmer at QB. They could do that with Campbell, Gradkowski, Russell, etc. Force us to try and beat them thru the air with scrub QB’s. Unfortunately, Palmer & DMAC never got to play together last year.
————————————————-
Agree. Say what you want about Hue – and that was certainly an expensive trade – but it’s nice having a “real QB” and no longer having to line up a 2nd string QB behind center.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:15 am
hwnrdr Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 10:52 am
Just based on his past comments alone, LT2 can kick rocks! And hope he breaks a toe in doing so!
************************
Hwnrdr.. i couldnt agree more !!
never did like this little cry baby b1tch !!
May 8th, 2012 at 11:16 am
guest123 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:10 am
@37,
8 games is DMC’s over/under? I’d bet the over and bet the farm. Why the doubt? He’s still only 25 yo. All reports are good so far. It looks like he’s back and the only injury he has to worry about is the one he has yet to encounter. Why so doom/gloom?
=====================
Because it’s a lisfranc injury. Those are no joke. Lisfranc injuries tend to be recurring ones. His age has nothing to do with it at that point.
It’s not like we’re talking about a player who has been healthy every season up until last season. 2010 was his only “healthy” season.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:17 am
I believe team work is gonna get it done this year! Something that really hasn’t happened since 2003…
Discipline on plays…whew…imagine that?
***
I want to see a bunch of gang tackles. I want our defense swarming to the football. I want to start knocking the p1ss out of people. You can’t be a “bully” until you get the fundamentals down though. Tough task for Tarver. He’s got to do the same thing Allen did to Denver last season.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:17 am
Schilens never did Schit.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:19 am
I love Reggie signing that other punter. It’s a nice shot across the bow to the longest tenured Raider……keep your head on a swivel, son. There’s a new sherriff in town. Gotta purge any sense of entitlement still lingering from the old regime. Nobody is indispensible. Just ask Peyton Manning.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:21 am
R8ER MIKE Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:15 am
hwnrdr Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 10:52 am
Just based on his past comments alone, LT2 can kick rocks! And hope he breaks a toe in doing so!
************************
Hwnrdr.. i couldnt agree more !!
never did like this little cry baby b1tch !!
_______________
I agree, going out of your way to dis the Raiders, as a player saying, “oh i’ll never play for the Raiders, then compounding it with his best synde BSPN type giggle. he can blow raspberry’s on me apples.
bad part is I actually had respect for him before that.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:22 am
It’s not like we’re talking about a player who has been healthy every season up until last season. 2010 was his only “healthy” season.
***
@YA
DMAC has missed 19 games due to injuries in 4 seasons
64 games possible.
healthy (enough) & active for 45 games
if we’re going with the average and DMAC has 10 starts this season, I think we will be in good shape to make the playoffs in 2012
May 8th, 2012 at 11:23 am
I think we’re going to be the #1 rushing team in the NFL in 2012. Knapp has an excellent track record there. Palmer won’t have to force as many throws (less INT’s). Dumb penalties will be reduced in half. no more scholarships. discipline installed. outdated defensive schemes replaced. I’m excited for this season to start. I think our offense is going to be a juggernaut. Our defense will be average versus both the run and pass, which will still be a drastic improvement over last year’s squad.
2012 Raiders = 12-4
********
Certainly the potential is there. But we have to get lucky and stay out of injury problems. Because what you say about our starters only outlines how shallow the depth is, and if CP3 goes down, season is shot.
Realistically, for 12-4 to happen, we need all hands on deck pretty much all of the time, and the rookie coaches have to be as good as they have been billed to be.
Could it happen? Yes, I expect it. But I am a glass-half full kind of guy.
That’s why when you look at the draft and post draft FA’s, Reggie is doing the right thing going after depth, when starters on the FA market are all dried up.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:25 am
Good signing for depth purposes.
This team still needs a backup RB.
If McK can sign Cedric Benson to a bargain 1 year deal, he should do it!
May 8th, 2012 at 11:26 am
I agree, going out of your way to dis the Raiders, as a player saying, “oh i’ll never play for the Raiders, then compounding it with his best synde BSPN type giggle.
***
the past is the past. move on, already.
I couldn’t care less if Marty Schottenheimer was named HC
Al Davis isn’t alive any longer and those heated rivalries have sort of died down over the years. Maybe if we start winning some ballgames, we’ll be seen as a threat again?
May 8th, 2012 at 11:27 am
Because it’s a lisfranc injury. Those are no joke. Lisfranc injuries tend to be recurring ones. His age has nothing to do with it at that point.
*********
fair enough, I understand the stigma behind the dreaded “lisfranc”. But I understand that there are severities within the injury, degrees of setback this causes. It was non-operable so that is a good sign. It is a concern in itself, but I’m not buying this “injury-prone” label the media and talking heads are selling. It’s really easy to push that label and then go back and say it was a misunderstanding. Remember “Fragile” Fred Taylor? He had a late career blossoming after being tagged “injury prone”.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:27 am
17.RaiderRockstar Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 10:40 am
Jon Alston was a linebacker for the Oakland Raiders for three seasons, from 2007 through 2009. After experiencing four concussions over a 12 month period, Alston decided to leave the game for good, deciding the risk of injury to his brain was no longer worth the rewards that an NFL career can bring.
Alston explained what can happen to a football player with Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. He remarked, “If your identity is in football and you’re leaving, I don’t care if you’re a college or pro athlete, it’s the love of your life. You’re going to experience a depression. It’s like a divorce. Now imagine that with CTE, and trying to transition into another world. Depression is real, and with CTE it’s exacerbated. If your brain is damaged and you don’t talk to someone, you might not even be aware of what’s going on when you go to those dark places because of what’s going on in your brain. It’s going to be a very tough fight.
Alston hopes that through advanced technology helmets will change for the better. He asked, ” Is it possible for someone to come up with a helmet that stops the brain from being jolted? I don’t know, but there area a lot of smart people out there right now and it’s going to be a very profitable business.”
By K.C. Dermody | Yahoo! Contributor Network – 21 hours ago
***
I was wondering what ever happened to this guy!!
^^^^^^^^
If anything, brain damage will cause football to drastically change as we know it in the future.
Robots playing football and not humans!
May 8th, 2012 at 11:27 am
“But I am a glass-half full kind of guy”
Guest – are you the same person that wrote post #34?
May 8th, 2012 at 11:28 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:22 am
It’s not like we’re talking about a player who has been healthy every season up until last season. 2010 was his only “healthy” season.
***
@YA
DMAC has missed 19 games due to injuries in 4 seasons
64 games possible.
healthy (enough) & active for 45 games
if we’re going with the average and DMAC has 10 starts this season, I think we will be in good shape to make the playoffs in 2012
===============
He was active for many games in 2008 and 2009 where he was too injured to have much of an impact at all.
Less than 10 carries in 8 games where he was active in 2008.
Less than 10 carries in 8 games where he was active in 2009.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:28 am
I keep reading all this hype about Dennis Allen and his approach to defense being the be all to end all. This new fangled approach that the Raiders have never seen…….are you guys crazy??
I saw his defense last year, it was good not great he had a great safety in Dawkins who made a ton of plays. Other than that their defense was middle of the road I didn’t see anything so outstandingly special about. Not that I didn’t like it or wont like.
But you guys are way overhyping this guys scheme’s they’re no difference than the stuff Rob Ryan did. Or is doing now and no difference than what John Marshall was doing. Sometimes I think you guys want anything if it’s not associated when Al Davis is your mind. Good or Bad. Out defense was not some outdated version of basic scheme with no variation. Anyone who says that has no freakin clue about DEFENSE.
You guys need to wake up!!
I’m not knocking the guy I wnat the best for the team and I too am looking forward to what he has in store for us. But STOP with the “Modern scheme” crap none of the stuff he’s doing is all that modern. All this stuff goes back 30-40 years. It’s just a matter of personal preference. Being Multiple is nothing new nor unusual you cannot get more multiple than what Rob-O was doing he was ultra-multiple.
So are the Pat’s and several other teams and where were they ranked? Some of you really need to get a clue about this. The 49ers aren’t multi-defensed nor are the Steelers or Balt. The Giants use the exact same defense we’re bashed for using yet they dominate with it. We were 2nd in sacks yeah the backend was injured and failed us.
YOU need to get a clue and stop with this “Pie in the Sky” way of looking at things. Get some reality and hope for the best, I just have the feeling that some of you are in for rude awakening………this is the NFL there isn’t much they haven’t seen………….period
May 8th, 2012 at 11:28 am
@31 Rockstar syas:
McFadden hurt. Jones hurt. Goodson a fumble machine.
then what?
________________________________________________
The answer to this question is NOT Benson my friend. Arrested 3 times in the last 4 years…
Worrying has it’s place in our backfield….but not on Offense….I could understand a little worry in our defensive backfield though….
If all the above variables above happen as you describe then we can deal with it at that time….but Cedric Benson is not the answer to your question.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:29 am
DKnight007 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:27 am
If anything, brain damage will cause football to drastically change as we know it in the future.
Robots playing football and not humans!
========================================
“Welcome to CYBERBALL”
(Early 90s arcade game)
May 8th, 2012 at 11:30 am
The 49ers aren’t multi-defensed nor are the Steelers or Balt.
=============
Yes, the 49ers are. Same with Baltimore.
And Dawkins was hurt for most of the season last season.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:30 am
T Bergstrom ( hope i spelled it correct, sounds like a solid addition, but I was really hoping for R Turbin as an insurance policy. Besides, 2013 is a viodable year on McFaddins contract i believe. This year if he doesn’t make it 12-14 games, I can’t see them keeping him for first round money. In the case he is out early, it would have been nice to have Turbin in the wings, getting his feet wet this year.
Although Shannahan made no-name rb’s look like superhuman behind a ZBS system. In his rookie year DMC couldn’t seem to get the one cut system without fallin down, guess we’ll see how much of that was turff toe.
DMC is a great back, love the stiff arm, just please stay healthy.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:31 am
@Big Banana, you bet I’m the same half-glass full guy. We can be 12-4, AFC Champs, that’s what we can be. But we need a lot of things to go right, and health is foremost of concern.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:33 am
59 YA
You do remember the Cable guy had a thing for Fargas? DMC wasn’t even considered the #1 back until Hue came in 2010.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:33 am
We can be 1-0…..
May 8th, 2012 at 11:33 am
Chaz Schilens? Oy, vey.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:34 am
While I was in shock at first, now I really like the Bergstrom pick. If he and Baby Wiz work out the way I think they will, we may have another Shell-Upshaw-Otto on our hands: maybe not in terms of 3 HoFers, but in terms of “Here’s the left side of your line, and you can now forget that for the next 7-8 years.”
May 8th, 2012 at 11:34 am
We will be 1-0…
May 8th, 2012 at 11:34 am
We must be 1-0….
May 8th, 2012 at 11:34 am
*forget ABOUT that*
May 8th, 2012 at 11:35 am
realtruraider Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:33 am
59 YA
You do remember the Cable guy had a thing for Fargas? DMC wasn’t even considered the #1 back until Hue came in 2010.
====================
DMac was a Day 1 starter. Then he got injured.
If McFadden was healthy he would have played. He wasn’t, so he didn’t.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:35 am
@Guest. Yeah, Injuries are certainly the big wildcard.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:35 am
Cedric Benson is not the answer to your question.
**********
co-sign!
For all the above reasons. Benson’s a bum and a headache. Let’s stop going after stiffs.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:35 am
69 agreed
May 8th, 2012 at 11:36 am
I think the best DC’s aren’t all scheme as much as they put people in position to succeed. It’s the way they use the personnel. Ithink in most cases the simpler the scheme the better because the defense just plays faster. Yeah you can change things up a bit to give different looks but the bottom line is EXECUTION not some new fangled scheme. The art of tackling can make any scheme loook great, being disciplined and tackling is where we failed last year and making plays when they presented themselves. We dropped crucial int’s last year and we didn’t tackle along with the penalties. Change that and that defense is a much better defense………….period.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:39 am
75.guest123 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:35 am
Cedric Benson is not the answer to your question.
**********
co-sign!
For all the above reasons. Benson’s a bum and a headache. Let’s stop going after stiffs.
^^^^^^
Is he a better backup stiff, then the current stiffs we have now as backups to DMC.
T Jones won’t be able to handle the pounding day in and day out either if he has to replace DMC.
If Benson can be had on a bargain 1 year deal, than why not sign him?
May 8th, 2012 at 11:40 am
Hopefully the Dennis Allen attitude will be the defining deference in the d this year. Wanna take a play off sit your butt down and take a few. This could be a way of lighting a fire under a few guys butts. A play %count for game checks could work wonders. I know that’s not the way it goes, just sayin.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:41 am
Next years draft I expect McK and Allen to focus on drafting a NT, CB, RB and another OLB.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:42 am
@78
Here is why.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cedric_Benson
Scroll down to 2011 arrest.
On July 17, 2011, Benson was arrested in Austin, Texas for a misdemeanor charge of assault causing bodily injury to a family member. He was sentenced to 20 days in jail and ordered to pay a $4,000 fine. Benson was released from jail on September 3, after only five days of his sentence. He received a one game suspension, enacted in week 8.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:43 am
DKnight007 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:41 am
Next years draft I expect McK and Allen to focus on drafting a NT, CB, RB and another OLB.
=====================
Star Lotulelei or David Amerson would look pretty great in silver and black.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:44 am
Good pick up depth, competition Reggie keep signing low level guys this orginisation it’s diffrent from al Davis way To some extent I’m intrusted to see how it all plays out man I can’t wait
May 8th, 2012 at 11:44 am
YA
Thats not true, even going into the 2010 season there was still alot of debate about who the starter was going to be, Bush or DMC. DMC came flying out the gate with Hue’s offense and that was the end of that.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:44 am
I would rather us lose without players like Benson than to win with them….PERIOD!
May 8th, 2012 at 11:44 am
YA the 49ers play a straight 3/4 defense they never EVER lineup in a 4/3. When I say multiple I mean the front. Balt. and Pitt play a straight 3/4 I hav en’t seen the Steelers in anything except a 3/4 in the last 30 years. Since LaBeau has taken over and intorduced the zone blitz some 30 years ago.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:46 am
realtruraider Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:44 am
YA
Thats not true, even going into the 2010 season there was still alot of debate about who the starter was going to be, Bush or DMC. DMC came flying out the gate with Hue’s offense and that was the end of that.
====================
DMac was absolutely a starter early on in his career. Remember the KC game he looked so good in as a rookie? That was the 2nd game of the season. He was a STARTER. If he wasn’t ineffective because of his injuries, he would have remained a starter.
The talk in 2010 about Bush being the starter was because of his VERY strong finish to the 2009 season, and DMac’s absence.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:46 am
We dropped crucial int’s last year and we didn’t tackle along with the penalties. Change that and that defense is a much better defense………….period.
Agreed Priest!
May 8th, 2012 at 11:46 am
The bottom line is all these teams are disciplined and they TACKLE extremely well. That is what makes them great………..period
May 8th, 2012 at 11:47 am
I would rather us lose without players like Benson than to win with them….PERIOD!
********
x2
Let him take his rapsheet to another town.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:48 am
priesttj Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:44 am
YA the 49ers play a straight 3/4 defense they never EVER lineup in a 4/3. When I say multiple I mean the front. Balt. and Pitt play a straight 3/4 I hav en’t seen the Steelers in anything except a 3/4 in the last 30 years. Since LaBeau has taken over and intorduced the zone blitz some 30 years ago.
=========
You’re so far off on this it’s amazing.
Justin Smith slides to 4-3 DT and Aldon Smith comes in at 4-3 RDE. Happens quite a bit.
In Baltimore, Suggs and Johnson played DE almost as much as they played OLB.
You’re wrong. Sorry man.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:48 am
Tackling is not what makes a great team….it is a symptom of a great team…not a cause……period.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:49 am
It’s a simple game when you can BLOCK and TACKLE and execution focus on those and not so much scheme.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:49 am
Wow i stand corrected, media saying Benson was bad mouthing Palmer, really doen’t read that way to me.
///////////////
Benson, the Bengals’ starter in the backfield who will be a free agent once the lockout ends, said Tuesday night in a Sirius NFL Radio appearance that it wouldn’t be in the team’s best interests to bring Palmer back.
“I love Carson Palmer to death. He’s supported me and taught me a lot but I think when a guy expresses himself as strongly as he has it’s almost not healthy for the team to bring him back,” Benson said, according to the Enquirer.
“He’s already expressed his disgust. To bring him back would only be detrimental to the team and to him. This guy wants to be free and to soar somewhere else. Don’t lock a man down whom you know he won’t be happy if he stays,” he said.
Lewis acknowledged Palmer’s desire for separation from the Bengals during Wednesday’s call, but said time might change the quarterback’s feelings.
“The good thing for us is this decision was made in January. From that, we benefited,” Lewis said.
But Benson said Tuesday that if Palmer returns, he won’t have a passion for the game because he won’t be happy with his situation.
“If a man in his heart is ready to move, you can’t hold him down,” he said.
//////////
put the old “Detrimental to the team” clause in there, and there are worse moves that could be made IMOP.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:56 am
YA
I think you misremember, DMC wasn’t that effective in Cables ZBS. He favored Fargas, that wasn’t a secret. There were many weeks DMC was healthy and Fargas would start the game, I remember alot of fans were not very happy about it.
May 8th, 2012 at 11:59 am
Cable loved Fargas and thousands were frustrated.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:00 pm
Priesttj Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:59 am
Cable loved Fargas and thousands were frustrated.
==========================================
It was more than just thousands, IMHO.
Cable played favorites and was an ineffectual leader. There’s a reason why he’s back to coaching o-linemen.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:01 pm
Aldon Smith is a LB in that scheme all it is a version of the zoneblitz. It looks like a 4/3 but it aint.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:01 pm
if I remember correctly, Fargas was much more adept at blocking than either DMC, or Bush that year, DMC has come along way in that category
May 8th, 2012 at 12:02 pm
I agree Duck I eventried to get people to understand why, DMC couldn’t block me. As he got better he should’ve played much more.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:03 pm
DMAC is as effective Justin Fargas considering he only plays half a season.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:04 pm
It’s a great day to be a Raiders fan. Isn’t it?!
Cedric Benson would be OK…and I mean just OK. Yes, he’s been in a few sticky situations…but, in at least one of those he was definitely singled-out. He’s no Pacman Jones, but he does have a bad habit of being around trouble.
As a RB…Benson’s on the downhill slide, but he’s big, and has experience, and can contribute in a limited role. We will be VERY lucky to not miss MBush…and that is almost entirely up to DMcFadden.
However…I’m extremely anxious to see the new RB additions we already have. If even one of them can produce (and stay on the field) like Bush, we’ll dodge the proverbial bullet. Letting go a steady RB is really tough to do.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:05 pm
The Farglass thing was embarrassing….what was worse was how people defending that bum….BHP you did it thousands of times so did Oakglenn….you should be ashamed of yourselves
May 8th, 2012 at 12:08 pm
Cedric Benson sucks man….guy will do nada for us….no thanks
May 8th, 2012 at 12:08 pm
Cant remember who they were playing, but a d end came in a little unbalanced and DMC straight up knocked him on his backside, that’s when he really started to impress me as an all around player. Stay out of the training room, and he deserves to be in the discussion of top 5 backs in the league.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:08 pm
Raider defense can’t be worse than it was last year, offense will be better with a stronger oline, best player back(mcfadden) and a more comfortable QB. Schedule is HARDER this year so 12-4 is a REACH. 10 wins is the probably the limit in reality. Mcfadden is the key to the offense and its best player by far. people on here that hate on Mcfadden need to have their heads examined. Great runner with great instincts and will be a Raider for life.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:09 pm
Method To My Madness Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 12:05 pm
The Farglass thing was embarrassing….what was worse was how people defending that bum….BHP you did it thousands of times so did Oakglenn….you should be ashamed of yourselves
//////////
spit coffee all over the place thanks lmao
May 8th, 2012 at 12:09 pm
Manassamauler…..um yeah it can….who are our guys in the middle to stop run? Exactly
May 8th, 2012 at 12:09 pm
Bo Schembechler Jackson Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 10:03 am
Bo Schembechler Jackson Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 10:02 am
Sullivan44 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 9:32 am
For years veterans came here to take it easy, because they knew Al Davis wouldn’t allow the coaches to crack down on them.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Witness DMAC jacking the team around last year, while we were poised to make the playoffs for the first time in a decade.
Reg better not tolerate quitters like Al did. Wanna sit 9 games with a hangnail? Fine him. Refuse meds? Fine him.
DMAC has only one more chance. Reg better keep a fire lit under his pansy ass.
>>>>>
Ever had any kind of foot injury while playing sports at any kind of elite level, Bubba?
I have. Its debilitating.
You need to check yourself. Or stick with playing Madden. You have NO clue. None.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:11 pm
priesttj Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 12:01 pm
Aldon Smith is a LB in that scheme all it is a version of the zoneblitz. It looks like a 4/3 but it aint.
================
If he’s playing off the left tackle’s shoulder with his hand on the ground, he’s playing defensive end. Again, you’re wrong.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:13 pm
Justin Farglass 28 carries 77 yards 0 tds…….aw such a warrior and hardworker……meaning he sucks
May 8th, 2012 at 12:13 pm
Manassamauler…..um yeah it can….who are our guys in the middle to stop run? Exactly
… defense gave up 27PPG last year along with a LOT of penalties. NO the defense really cant get worse. besides this is a pass heavy NFL now so the focus should be on a pass rush more than run stopping.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:13 pm
Method it wasn’t so much defending it as explaining it. DMC and Bush just could recognize where the blitz was coming from. Fargas was great at it so he played.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:14 pm
What’s up youngblood! we cool?
May 8th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
Cant remember who they were playing, but a d end came in a little unbalanced and DMC straight up knocked him on his backside, that’s when he really started to impress me as an all around player. Stay out of the training room, and he deserves to be in the discussion of top 5 backs in the league.
DMAC is on the top 3. along with AP and foster. but i would say DMAC is the most explosive RB in the NFL by far. AP and foster seem more durable( even with the AP injury last year. BUT no RB puts fear in a D like Mcfadden.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
Knapp better utilize DMC’s strengths like Hue did last year and not just use DMC exclusively on ZBS runs.
Knapp needs to mix it up when it comes to using DMC as the ultimate weapon.
We’ll see how predictable Knapp becomes. If we don’t score as many point as we did last year on offense and see a significant reduction….this will prove, what we already knew…that Knapp sucks as an offensive coordinator and is a QB coach at best at this stage of his coaching career.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
Lol YA
May 8th, 2012 at 12:17 pm
Priesttj Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 12:13 pm
Method it wasn’t so much defending it as explaining it. DMC and Bush just could recognize where the blitz was coming from. Fargas was great at it so he played.
\////////
Touche
May 8th, 2012 at 12:17 pm
I would rather us lose without players like Benson than to win with them….PERIOD!
***
Al Davis = just win, baby!
RRS = just win, baby!
not saying I want a team full or thugs or malcontents, but I don’t think you can bypass talent and substitute it with honor. If you want to win, you get the best players you can afford and coach’em up. Why the heck did we hire Lamonte Winston & Napolean Kaufman? It’s their job to make sure these cats don’t get into trouble off the field. Put a clause in the contract that allows us to terminate them without pay if there’s an arrest or a locker room divider.
Sam Williams is a bible thumper and an excellent special teamer. we lack LB depth, why hasn’t he been re-signed?
May 8th, 2012 at 12:17 pm
YA He may jus be more comfortable in that stance is all. A true DE plays all 4 downs just an edge rusher he doesn’t play on run downs. We will use Burris the same way if he gets in a 3 pt stance will that make him a DE…………NO!!
May 8th, 2012 at 12:18 pm
102.HayesDaze37 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 12:04 pm
It’s a great day to be a Raiders fan. Isn’t it?!
Cedric Benson would be OK…and I mean just OK. Yes, he’s been in a few sticky situations…but, in at least one of those he was definitely singled-out. He’s no Pacman Jones, but he does have a bad habit of being around trouble.
As a RB…Benson’s on the downhill slide, but he’s big, and has experience, and can contribute in a limited role. We will be VERY lucky to not miss MBush…and that is almost entirely up to DMcFadden.
However…I’m extremely anxious to see the new RB additions we already have. If even one of them can produce (and stay on the field) like Bush, we’ll dodge the proverbial bullet. Letting go a steady RB is really tough to do.
^^^^^^^^
I’m hoping some of these camp filler RB’s can step up and contribute. This team will need it. Can’t count on DMC playing all games…can’t count on any RB in the NFL playing in all the games these days.
All starting RB’s will get hurt, just comes down to how serious they get hurt.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:19 pm
BHP we forver cool…you the OG who has war wounds so I respect it…just don’t agree with ya all the time…Farglass recognized the blitz as the qb got sacked a lot lol
May 8th, 2012 at 12:19 pm
DKnight007 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
Knapp better utilize DMC’s strengths like Hue did last year and not just use DMC exclusively on ZBS runs.
==========================================
Knapp is a superior OC to Cable, and has Saunders to assist him as well. The offense will be fine.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:19 pm
Burris needs to be standing up 90% of the time if not all the time.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:19 pm
Fargas was a good troop…a great teammate, and he was rewarded for it by his teammates by being named captain among other things (and by AL monetarily!). However…he never should’ve been asked to carry the load in Oakland.
Fargas might have had the look, and the desire to be one, but he simply didn’t have the skills to be a #1 RB. With nobody chasing him, he would find a way to bounce off a stationary object in the open field.
DMC (or Bush) should’ve been starting ahead of Fargas at every opportunity to do so…we already knew Fargas had peaked.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:20 pm
123.RaiderDuck Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 12:19 pm
DKnight007 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
Knapp better utilize DMC’s strengths like Hue did last year and not just use DMC exclusively on ZBS runs.
==========================================
Knapp is a superior OC to Cable, and has Saunders to assist him as well. The offense will be fine.
^^^^^^^^
We’ll see. I need to see it. I don’t have blind faith in Knapp.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:20 pm
Knapp better utilize DMC’s strengths like Hue did last year and not just use DMC exclusively on ZBS runs.
Knapp needs to mix it up when it comes to using DMC as the ultimate weapon.
We’ll see how predictable Knapp becomes. If we don’t score as many point as we did last year on offense and see a significant reduction….this will prove, what we already knew…that Knapp sucks as an offensive coordinator and is a QB coach at best at this stage of his coaching career…
May 8th, 2012 at 12:21 pm
yeah and Seymour needs to wait till the fourth quarter to punch people
May 8th, 2012 at 12:22 pm
Manassamauler…come on man….football is still basic when it comes down to winning….especially in january! When you can’t stop run you not gonna win….no matter what current state of nfl is in….how much does a passing league mean when its 8 min left and you down ten pts and the team is running out the clock on ya?
May 8th, 2012 at 12:22 pm
I love Carson Palmer to death. He’s supported me and taught me a lot – Benson
***
He’s ran for over 1,000 yards each of the past 3 seasons
this guy would be an UPGRADE to Mike Bush at a fraction of the cost. As long as he stays out of trouble, there is no reason NOT to sign him imo
May 8th, 2012 at 12:22 pm
priesttj Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 12:17 pm
YA He may jus be more comfortable in that stance is all. A true DE plays all 4 downs just an edge rusher he doesn’t play on run downs. We will use Burris the same way if he gets in a 3 pt stance will that make him a DE…………NO!!
===========
Not when your defense uses multiple formations. Harralson and Brooks are the starting outside linebackers, with Willis and Bowman inside. Aldon Smith does play OLB sometimes on 3rd downs. When the 49ers go 4-3 (which they do OFTEN), Smith plays DE with Justin Smith moving to DT.
Not that hard to understand, unless you don’t watch the games like you claim you do.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:24 pm
Dknight….I’m with ya on that….Knapp’s offensive philosophy worries me as deoes the zbs….plus Palmer in a wco?….yep wait and see approach
May 8th, 2012 at 12:24 pm
Hopefully TJ breaks a couple of long runs in the preseason, put some fear in opposing teams DEs and LBs. slow down the pass rush and keep Palmer upright. if we have 2 RBs that can break long runs that’ll make the Passing game elite level. no joke. Thats what Mcfadden does to opposing defenses.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:26 pm
Burris is your edge rusher supreme but he played mostly in a wide9 position at SDS which is defined as a DE yet he’s listed as LB. These Hybrid positions DE/OLB are really just LB’s used in a position to come of the edge closer to the QB because OT have a tough time with their speed. Harrison and Woodley aren’t DE’s but some call them that.
Wimbley was used much more like Aldon Smith on passing downs because he got in a 3pt stance they call him a DE he’s just LB in a 3 pt stance.
‘
May 8th, 2012 at 12:27 pm
I’m as worried about Jones’ health as I am McFadden’s. Hopefully Lonyae Miller shows something in camp so the Raiders aren’t stuck with Goodson and Reece as their only backs.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:27 pm
Any Team that lands Benson would be lucky if he still had the skills of last year or the year before. He used to be explosive…now he’s just big. But, he can run, and he’s a proven 1,000-yard RB who I think has at least another year of +/- 160 carries in him. Backup material all day long, while hoping one of the young guys has “it.”
May 8th, 2012 at 12:28 pm
@119 Rockstar
“but I don’t think you can bypass talent and substitute it with honor.”
_______________________________________________
So far, there are 32 NFL teams that disagree with you…but I am not speaking for them, nor do I want their support in this discussion….
I agree with your above statement by itself but not in relation to Cedric Benson….
Can Cedric still produce? Yes
Does his puzzle piece fit the direction this organization is head? I don’t think so.
Do we have a need at running back? Not currently.
Are running backs easier to find at this point in time then at any other time in history? I think so.
__________________________________
Rockstar, I guess we will agree to disagree on Benson.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:28 pm
RRS…so what if he has? 1000 yards thing is overrated…never been impressed with Benson…and if he gets in any trouble he will be outro due to his past…..no way can we risk our only big back like that
May 8th, 2012 at 12:30 pm
Manassamauler…come on man….football is still basic when it comes down to winning….especially in january! When you can’t stop run you not gonna win….no matter what current state of nfl is in….how much does a passing league mean when its 8 min left and you down ten pts and the team is running out the clock on ya?
i’m just saying that the NFL has changed. pass rush is more important than run stopping now. have to MAKE IT to January first. with our own elite running game that will(should) control the clock. effective offense is the best defense. teams wont be able to run it on us if we drop 30 on them. raiders gave up big pass and running plays and 163 penalties last year. besides i dont really know who we could sign to plug the middle and stop the run. we have manning and rivers in our division, pass rush is more important to make it to playoffs.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:31 pm
Hopefully Jones, or Goodson can be dependable enough to spell DMC and keep some miles off the tires, I’m all for having the league leading RB, but having him healthy for tough games is more important than having a fantasy back for half the season.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:31 pm
Wassup, B?
May 8th, 2012 at 12:33 pm
Benson hasn’t had any “real” bites yet, pre-season cuts yet to be determined. I don’t really think its anything to lose sleep over.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:34 pm
guest123 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:10 am
@37,
8 games is DMC’s over/under? I’d bet the over and bet the farm. Why the doubt? He’s still only 25 yo. All reports are good so far. It looks like he’s back and the only injury he has to worry about is the one he has yet to encounter. Why so doom/gloom?
—————————–
You’d bet the farm? Then someone else might be planting crops on it in 2013.
For even the healthiest of RB’s (and we know DMC ain’t one of those guys), the over/under is probably UNDER 8-games, or very close to it.
Bet a cow, or a pig, or a dog…but don’t bet the farm. E-I-E-I-O
May 8th, 2012 at 12:34 pm
Mike Bush is a rare animal you say we replaced him all you want but you cannot find a 250lbs. back with his skillset. They don’t exist beyond that kid, that’s why you never let players like him walk unless you’re sure what you have measures up.
That was a DUMB MOVE…………..period
May 8th, 2012 at 12:34 pm
@ Backstage & ROG
plenty of players on the CURRENT roster have a checked past. Looking for a shot at redemption. Vowed to stay out of trouble. hungry for an opportunity.
what makes Benson any different than them?
if DMAC & Jones stay healthy?? good!!
if Goodson corrects that fumble issue?? good!!
signing Benson now for vet minimum in no way guarantees him a roster spot 4 months from now!!
May 8th, 2012 at 12:35 pm
* checkered
May 8th, 2012 at 12:37 pm
@ TJ
Mike Bush is overrated. thats why NOBODY wanted him as a #1 RB and only 3 teams expressed interest in him as a #2 RB
Benson > Bush
May 8th, 2012 at 12:39 pm
BHP — You and I totally agree on MBush. It’s the single biggest move Reggie’s made to now that I just don’t like. Every other move I can find a way to understand and appreciate…but not that of letting Bush go, when we could’ve made a reasonable-enough offer to keep him. He liked playing in Oakland…he and his family will tell you so, if you ever had chance to speak with them.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:41 pm
If nobody want him, why’d Bush end up with a GREAT contract for a #2 RB? Reggie said he couldn’t come close to matching it (which we know isn’t exactly right, but it’s the biz).
People who don’t know anything about how many Teams were actually interested in Bush want to tell us nobody wanted him. Funny!
May 8th, 2012 at 12:42 pm
144. I disagree.. Bush couldnt block or run goaline. Whats the point in being 250?
May 8th, 2012 at 12:43 pm
HD37 I know I heard him express those sentiments many times. These fans who call him overrated just don’t get it. but they will soon enough. The kid was rated the 22nd best FA on the market yet we have Raider fans calling him overrated. You don’t see 250lbs. backs do what that kid did. He rushed for almost 1,000 yards on a bad ankle in 11 games.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:44 pm
@ 148…
I agree….
but what I think Rockstar is saying is that Benson provides everything Bush does but at a cheaper price….
The funny thing is….cheaper price could be applied to money as well as his character.
From what I’ve seen of Reggie, he doesn’t want the Cedric Benson’s of the world on this team. He wants guy who love football, who prepare to win, and that means they take care of their business outside of football.
Benson has shown no ability to do this…
May 8th, 2012 at 12:46 pm
Yet we used for 5 years in goaline and shortyardage because he was no good at it.
Laughable doesn’t even explain this crap!
May 8th, 2012 at 12:46 pm
Benson provides everything Bush does but at a cheaper price….
The funny thing is….cheaper price could be applied to money as well as his character.
***
Agreed, Backstage!
May 8th, 2012 at 12:47 pm
Bush refused to help us out at fullback, cant block, run goaline or carry the rock hard for more than 2 weeks.. Pass
May 8th, 2012 at 12:48 pm
From what I’ve seen of Reggie, he doesn’t want the Cedric Benson’s of the world on this team. He wants guy who love football, who prepare to win, and that means they take care of their business outside of football.
Benson has shown no ability to do this…
***
Again, Reggie already has a bunch of dudes on the team without a clean slate. Guys that he inherited and decided to keep. Guys that he signed, like Underwood
this isn’t a team full of “choir boys” even though thats what our draft class appeared to be
May 8th, 2012 at 12:48 pm
Marks hair Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 12:42 pm
144. I disagree.. Bush couldnt block or run goaline. Whats the point in being 250?
———————————
This prevailing opinion wouldn’t be so hard to overcome if Bush had just scored on that one, infamous, 0-4 sequence on the goal line. Not like that pathetic line play had anything to do with it or anything!
Yes…had Bush just stepped 6-inches to his left on one play, he would’ve scored “easily.” Even if he was 180-lbs, he would’ve scored there. But…he didn’t cause that drive to fail, even though he gets blamed for it.
Oh well…how about these new RB’s we’ve got?!
May 8th, 2012 at 12:50 pm
153. And we’ve been bad at goaline for 5 yrs.. Did you forget?
May 8th, 2012 at 12:51 pm
157. Thanks I forgot his vision is weak too.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:53 pm
No team or coach with half a brain uses a back on passing downs who cannot block and Bush played a ton on passing downs. Some of you come up with this stuff should be checked thoroughly.
Common sense is in short supply in here!
May 8th, 2012 at 12:53 pm
Nobody has a clean slate…on our team and inside of this blog has a past….
Rockstar…I think you make some very valid arguments…they are objective and you may prove to be correct….
In my view though…I am more than happy with our 3 Tailbacks and crew of Fullback/TE/H-Backs to deal with the workload in the run game.
Marks Hair makes a great point as well….Bush was built like a fullback and would not lead block….this was unfortunate and definitely a negative….a big one…
Not to change the subject, but, in my view, our defensive backs, our corners are in area of need…not running back!
May 8th, 2012 at 12:54 pm
Nobody has a clean slate…not on our team or inside of this blog, we all have a past….
May 8th, 2012 at 12:54 pm
I will never disagree with NOT bringing in a Player with numerous character issues/incidents…and Benson’s one of those guys. But a few of his “problems” weren’t really his doing, and he could be a decent backup if he’s done with his younger, hard-partying ways. Hey, it could happen.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:55 pm
I’ll take Benson with 3 straight 1,000 yard seasons over a choir boy with 500 yards or no proven track record at all in the NFL at or near the same price!!
does that make me crazy??
and I’m somewhat of a Bible thumper myself
May 8th, 2012 at 12:56 pm
HD37 If you watch that series it was the back who didn’t get it done. It was a run blitz and the OG who was pulling never got to the hole Wiz once and CC twice. Bush was extremely frustrated because he was getting hit before he got to the hole.
It was some of the worse execution I saw all year from that unit. The back was a VICTIM!!
May 8th, 2012 at 12:56 pm
Bush has the potential to be great, but he won’t listen. I have no doubt that Skipper, Saunders, Hue and Cable wore their voices out trying to get him to drive into the pile and use his size & strength to move it. Four yards and a cloud of dust should be his game, and he’d be really, really good at it.
But no. He thinks he’s Barry Sanders or something and tries to get way too cute. Bush is the football equivalent of Willie Mays Hayes, trying to hit it out of the park instead of just legging out singles.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:56 pm
Pass on Benson. 1000 yard rushers are nice and all, but not when you cant crack at least 4.0 yards a carry, which Benson has always had a problem with. The more carries it takes you to get to 1000, the less powerful your legs will be the next season. Benson is averaging 300 carries the last 3 seasons. Thats a lot of wear on those legs.
May 8th, 2012 at 12:59 pm
This prevailing opinion wouldn’t be so hard to overcome if Bush had just scored on that one, infamous, 0-4 sequence on the goal line. Not like that pathetic line play had anything to do with it or anything**************
I should’ve read all the post, the Oline sucked on the goaline situation.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:00 pm
Should Justin Fargas have ever played before a healthy DMAC ? Of course not.
When healthy, DMAC is the BEST all purpose RB in the NFL.
Not top 5, not top 3, THE BEST.
There isn’t a Back out there that can match DMAC’s package of explosiveness, speed, hands, blocking and punishing running.
Fumbles have been a concern, but it is only the inability to stay healthy and on the field that has prevented DMAC from being recognized as one of the truly GREAT players in the NFL.
His health is crucial to the Raider offense being one of the BEST units in the NFL as opposed to a better than average unit.
He’s a difference maker.
As for Fargas, he was really a tough guy. Overcame a brutal leg break. Had good physical ability and desire.
His problem was he really was a ‘crash test dummy’. He had only one speed and direction. Full speed and straight ahead.
Lacked the vision, change of pace, and patience that could have made him a much better runner.
Fargas had a big heart and gave it his all.
He pales in comparison to the potential of DMAC, but we shouldn’t go out of our way to bash the guy or his career.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:02 pm
Bent out of shape over letting a sub-4ypc tailback in a fullback’s body that can’t block? Too funny! This place is amusing.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:03 pm
Rockstar, great discussion.
Is Benson a risk? Maybe so, maybe not.
I’ll bet Benson runs into more trouble in the bay area than living in Ohio though….should we go that route…
May 8th, 2012 at 1:04 pm
MBush was a great teammate…and he NEVER refused to lead-block anyone. You guys make-up this stuff.
Bush didn’t want to CHANGE positions. He didn’t want to become a Fullback.
Think about this people: If you were a quality RB in the NFL, one whose future wasn’t even close to realized, would you easily give up being a RB to become a FB? These Players aren’t just Players…they are businesses/companies in and of themselves. MBush’s future (and the Raiders’) was brighter with him at RB. He certainly wasn’t going to make Fargas a scoring machine, or DMC more durable.
Plus…was there a trustworthy Coach/es, making sound and stable decisions, running things around here? Move from RB to FB full-time on their advice? Right!
May 8th, 2012 at 1:05 pm
Perhaps Mark Davis should have hired one of you clowns as the GM? lol
May 8th, 2012 at 1:05 pm
Darren McFadden is one season (16 games + post season) away from being labeled the Best RB in the league….
You know what, I’ll bet everyone in here can see in their minds eye that happening for him in his career….
Believe!
May 8th, 2012 at 1:09 pm
DMC sure can be the best RB in the NFL. If he stays on the field…not just start games, but STAY on the field.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:11 pm
DMC is an incredible HB but it doesn’t matter if he can’t stay healthy. I said it a million times they should’ve allowed Bush to do the heavy lifting and used DMC to dazzle the defense 15 -25 touches a game. Let Bush hammer them it would’ve been the bets wya to use BOTH of them.
Wheatley took a lot of pressure off Nap and Garner, and made them even more effective. When they started Nap he got beatup and retired. The same will happen to DMC if they continue to use him this heavily. He’ll have a very short career………..period
May 8th, 2012 at 1:12 pm
@172
Good Post, but changing positions and lead blocking are not the same thing…
Bush and Dmac could have been on the field together if Bush would have been more versatile with his size. He didn’t care to use his ability to block in any capacity like he did when he had the ball in his hands.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:14 pm
Lol.. Bush cant block..fact.
He dances..fact.
Not a value on sp teams. Fact..
Refused to play some fullback fact..
A backup rb who cant/wont do those things has little value.. No big loss.. Theres so many backups to choose from.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:17 pm
Too often “WE” are labeling the positions of these guys and not looking at the real issue…
Just because we call a guy a tailback doesn’t mean he does not LEAD block….
This is football….blocking and tackling is necessary. There is only ONE ball…and all these prima donnas fight over who has it….
We need football players who will fight for inches…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myyWXKeBsNk
May 8th, 2012 at 1:18 pm
Regarding the signing of C Colin Miller:
Miller could be a GREAT find…and he’s miles ahead of most the Centers drafted this year. It’s not like he had easy duty trying to crack the lineup in Pittsburgh — behind Maurkice Pouncey and a 7-yr Vet who can move up and down the line, there wasn’t room for him.
Miller hasn’t even come into his own yet…and can be coached-up with our other young guys. He’s one of those potential hidden gems we’re all hoping Reggie finds. If just a few of Reggie’s finds pan-out, he’ll be lauded as a genius. Not yet, though!
May 8th, 2012 at 1:19 pm
HayesDaze37 Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 1:04 pm
MBush was a great teammate…and he NEVER refused to lead-block anyone. You guys make-up this stuff.
Bush didn’t want to CHANGE positions. He didn’t want to become a Fullback.
Think about this people: If you were a quality RB in the NFL, one whose future wasn’t even close to realized, would you easily give up being a RB to become a FB? These Players aren’t just Players…they are businesses/companies in and of themselves. MBush’s future (and the Raiders’) was brighter with him at RB. He certainly wasn’t going to make Fargas a scoring machine, or DMC more durable.
Plus…was there a trustworthy Coach/es, making sound and stable decisions, running things around here? Move from RB to FB full-time on their advice? Right!
=============================================
Marcus Allen played FB for Bo.
Herschel Walker played FB for Tony Dorsett.
Roger Craig played FB for Wendell Tyler.
And so forth…
May 8th, 2012 at 1:20 pm
Bush is a good back and he will be missed.
Yes, there were deficiencies in his game.
He wasn’t a great blocker. He wasn’t very elusive. He lacks vision and doesn’t have a great first step.
But once he got rolling – he was a big, punishing runner that could intimidate opposing 2nd levels and wear them down.
Bush has excellent hands. He was at his best on screens and short flairs which allowed him to hit the 2nd level where he could really do damage.
Sorry to see him go and I think the Raids need to sign a ‘big’ back (like Benson) to offset his loss.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:22 pm
Pass on Benson. 1000 yard rushers are nice and all, but not when you cant crack at least 4.0 yards a carry, which Benson has always had a problem with. The more carries it takes you to get to 1000, the less powerful your legs will be the next season. Benson is averaging 300 carries the last 3 seasons. Thats a lot of wear on those legs.
***
solid post, JDB
Benson had 1109 carries the past 4 seasons with Cincy. I still don’t think he’s done. I think he may have another 2 years left in him as a #2 RB. He’d be able to stay fresh that way coming off the bench to spell DMAC.
If DMAC gets hurt and he becomes the lead back, he could give a few carries to Jones & Goodson.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:23 pm
Id take L. Miller on the goaline over bush..
May 8th, 2012 at 1:26 pm
What 250lbs. back have you EVER seen who had a great 1st step??? Is this a joke? HE’S TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY POUNDS. That and great 1st don’t go together…….his size doesn’t allow elusiveness. Most backs his size just fall forward. Bush had great feet and vision for his size and when you have that combo it doesn’t LOOK THE SAME as when you see a back at 225.
What the hell is wrong with you people?????
May 8th, 2012 at 1:26 pm
Reggie knows that to build a great team we have to start with what kind of men they are….their character!
The NFL is different then it was even 10 years ago…
Most are all about the money…if we can find some players with athletic ability who have that little extra….the extra it takes to prepare….the extra it takes to finish….the extra it takes to win…then we can be successful…
Look at Eli Manning….he was the host of Saturday Night Live this past week….this kid is already working on his TV career after football….
If you would have told me 5 years ago that ELI Manning would have 2 Super Bowl rings I would have said you were wrong…..but if you said he would be hosting SNL I would have called you crazy….
The who world is different now a days….and Reggie has a vision to steer us toward a place where we can compete year in and year out because we are paying attention to the stuff that matters….the stuff that lasts….
May 8th, 2012 at 1:27 pm
priesttj Says:
May 8th, 2012 at 11:36 am
I think the best DC’s aren’t all scheme as much as they put people in position to succeed. It’s the way they use the personnel. Ithink in most cases the simpler the scheme the better because the defense just plays faster. Yeah you can change things up a bit to give different looks but the bottom line is EXECUTION not some new fangled scheme. The art of tackling can make any scheme loook great, being disciplined and tackling is where we failed last year and making plays when they presented themselves. We dropped crucial int’s last year and we didn’t tackle along with the penalties. Change that and that defense is a much better defense………….period.
——————————————
Father Pride & Poise, the facts just aren’t on your side. You keep implying that a decade’s worth of failure was the result of poor execution, poor coaching, poor motivation, etc. You want to excuse the leadership of the owner but, regrettably for your argument, he was the one thing in common and was responsible for creating an environment that would ensure high production, and for the better part of the past 20 years he failed. And this is because, as everybody now knows, you couldn’t tell Al Davis anything. Well, every move that Reggie’s making provides an answer to your theory, and it’s only partly about player execution at an individual level, it’s also about creating a culture of high expectations and accountability.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:27 pm
I’ll bet Benson runs into more trouble in the bay area than living in Ohio though….should we go that route…
***
Backstage,
the same could be said of Terrelle Pryor!
Again, we could protect ourselves by putting a clause in the contract he signs.
I see this as a low risk / high reward signing
May 8th, 2012 at 1:29 pm
*whole world
May 8th, 2012 at 1:29 pm
A back his size with any moves at all is HARD to find……….what do you expect from him?? EXPLOSION???? get a freakin CLUE!!!
May 8th, 2012 at 1:30 pm
Ir Pryor a problem child or just young?
May 8th, 2012 at 1:31 pm
YO THE BEEECH DAWG PARTY TRAIN IN FULL EFFECT
Just landed at the Catamaran Mission Beach with the Certified Platinum Posse and my all star reggae side project Rasta Ganja
Got meetings this afternoon with high powered promoters, will probably get a few sweet gigs
First gots to get way high and play a little beach volleyball. The Beeech Diggity always pulls hizzies when he throws down his patent “Dawg Spike”
Yo, still throwin’ shout outs to my homeboy MCA, peace be to my Brooklyn homies and Central Park Renegades
HOLLA
May 8th, 2012 at 1:31 pm
My hope with the offense is that DMAC is NOT the only featured weapon but that weapons will be found all over the field!
Everyone knows how fragile RunDMC is so DA & da’ boys have to find a way to get McFaded some work with the rest of the offense. The Raiders have plenty of current and potential offensive weapons for this year.
Here’s to hoping that CP3 will find more targets than he knows what to do with!
May 8th, 2012 at 1:32 pm
Beech Dawg, your reputation precedes you!
May 8th, 2012 at 1:34 pm
Very few big backs can move like Bush in the open field…and he’s a GREAT receiver in the flat, able to make potential tacklers miss like a shifty little man.
The highest-paid FB in the NFL doesn’t make what #2 RB MBush makes now…and he’s playing the position that is right for his body and skill-set. On another Team fortunate to have him.
Bush is gone, likely never coming back. Next time we see him, let it be against us in a Super Bowl!
May 8th, 2012 at 1:35 pm
It’s a matter of simple physics, a guy that size will not move like a guy 220lbs.
Marcus Allen’s 1st wasn’t great!! it was his 3-4 steps that got you. It’ll take Bush at least 5 strides to get up some real speed. Anyone with a modicum of common sense would know that.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:38 pm
I agree Bush wasn’t very good near the goal line.
He doesn’t have an explosive first or second step.
He doesn’t change direction well or have very good vision in tight space.
That was part of the reason the Raids have failed with both Bush and Fargas in close.
Another reason which we don’t like to acknowledge, but is IMO a continuing problem, is that we do not posess a very powerful or proficient middle of the OL to ram that baby home.
You bet, Fargas and Bush weren’t very good at punching it in, but a large part of the Raider failures at the goal line can be placed squarely on the interior of the OL.
Raids need a better short yardage package.
And for God’s sake, use DMAC near the goal line.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:39 pm
Gentle, BHP, gentle. He’s gone…it’ll be alright. Reggie will find a good replacement. Not just for Bush, but for DMC too…no way does Reg put ALL his eggs in DMC’s basket beyond one year. He knows he needs a co-#1 in this here NFL.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:40 pm
HD37 How is it that people can’t see this stuff without being told. They expect Bush to run with the velocity and quickness of DMCit’s crazy!.
Anyway I’m out! I’m getting heated again this place make sme crazy………….LOL
May 8th, 2012 at 1:43 pm
John Dickinson @JDJohnDickinson
#Raiders officially announce George Karras, Bruce Kebric, Jon Kingdon and Kent McCloughan, will not return to the team @957thegame
May 8th, 2012 at 1:43 pm
Glad to see Calvin Branch seems to be staying.
May 8th, 2012 at 1:47 pm
Bush is hot trash. Check out his last 6 starts. he disappeared when we needed him. proved he’ll never be a #1 back
go root for the Bears if you’re still in love with twinkles toes or Soup
May 8th, 2012 at 1:48 pm
new post
May 8th, 2012 at 1:50 pm
MBush has the feet of Jamal Lewis, but with better moves in the open field. Give him a run-oriented O-line to run behind, and he’d be a 1,400+ yd RB.
Next!
May 8th, 2012 at 2:04 pm
Sorry to see the old time scouts dismissed.
The Raids deserve to be criticized for whiffing on so many early round picks, but I think the Raids have done pretty well with late round selections and would guess these scouts played a role in that.
Hope their replacements are ready to go.
Most of you guys are too young to remember the days of BLESTO.
There was actually a time where NFL clubs used shared scouting services like BLESTO to obtain info on prospects, and some didn’t even maintain their own scouting departments.
There was a time when only two teams did not subscribe to BLESTO.
Of course, the Raids were one of them.
Al insisted on his own network of scouts and player evaluation and adamantly refused to participate in the sharing of information or resources.
The maverick at his best.
May 8th, 2012 at 5:42 pm
Late round steal I really liked Oren O’neal in the 7th – broke his leg in the pre-season before his 2nd year and was never able to make it back. But he was a solid FB his rookie year. I liked the kid.
Is it just me or do the Raiders need to add a lot of players to get the roster up to 90?