Bay Area News Group exclusive: Gruden Q&A
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Saturday, August 11th, 2012 at 5:20 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Got a chance to spend some time with Jon Gruden Saturday, his first visit to a Raiders training camp since he last coached the organization in 2001.
Gruden is in town as the analyst for ESPN’s Monday Night Football broadcast of the Cowboys-Raiders game.
It was a Gruden reunion of sorts on the field. The only players left who remain from the Gruden years (1998 through 2001) are place kicker Sebastian Janikowski and punter Shane Lechler. But many in the organization remain in different capacities, and just about everyone made it over to Gruden for a warm greeting.
Chaplain Napoleon Kaufman made his way over for a hug, and after he and Gruden talked about their families, Gruden reminded him, “I think the last time we talked you were sitting in my office and I was asking you, “You’re not really going to retire, are you?”
After watching practice and participating in production meetings with the coaching staff and selected players, Gruden took some time to talk about coming back to Napa, his thoughts on going to the Coliseum for the first time since 2004, his impressions of the new Raiders regime and the loss of Al Davis, and whether he will coach again.
A link to the Bay Area News Group interview is here, with a condensed version containing excerpts to run in Sunday’s BANG newspapers.
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August 11th, 2012 at 5:24 pm
Gruden, what has he done lately
August 11th, 2012 at 5:24 pm
One Nation
August 11th, 2012 at 5:25 pm
Has Romney released his tax returns yet? Must be hiding something…..
August 11th, 2012 at 5:27 pm
So Gruden tried to hire DA back in the day? Interesting.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:32 pm
JONTRAIN= Troll destroyer.
Seriously, good comments.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:35 pm
JONTRAIN Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 4:55 pm
Backstageatapuppetshow Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 4:00 pm
Curry was tweeting at the start of practice from wherever he was…
I sent this message:
@AaronCurry51 Bad form to tweet while you should be at practice….sends the wrong message….injured or not….in LA or not….just sayin’
_____________________
Needless to say….he blocked me from his account.
I wish him the best.
##################################
Of course he blocked you. You give fans a bad name. What makes you think he wants to hear that BS from you when his season and possibly his career is on the line? What an entitled arrogant d bag move by you. Fukkkouttahere.
___________________________________________
I’m not a fan. But you are right about two things Jon….
I am arrogant & I am entitled.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:36 pm
154.RaiderRetribution Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 5:28 pm
better than 75% chance raiders have a completely different starting linebacker corp from last year
(wimbley, mcclain, groves/curry)
this year we already have
Wheeler as one lock starter
Burris 90% chance I would say now
McClain starts only if he does not get suspended
oh and thanks Seymourbush for the new post update
August 11th, 2012 at 5:37 pm
Gruden proved one thing for me………..you can win it all with the West Coast Offense….provided the guy running it is named Joe Montana.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:38 pm
Sounds like the rest of the country is in for an Oakland Raider lovefest from the national media on Monday.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:38 pm
seymourbush yes, romney’s taxes none of your business
August 11th, 2012 at 5:41 pm
ah so it’s Mr. Kaufman’s fault Gruden left for Tampa Bay;
“Now we know the rest of the story.”
August 11th, 2012 at 5:41 pm
They are if he’s a voter
August 11th, 2012 at 5:46 pm
JFB,seriously doubt that with the Cowgirls and Jerrah in town plus Tirico(?) doing the play-by-play.I know I’ll be called a racist for this but he is one of the worst announcers around,IMHO.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:47 pm
If this team does as well as I think it will do then everyone here better ‘gear up’ for a massive influx of “new” ‘been a Raider fan forever’ fans……
Bummer really……..I was getting used to the bunker mentality.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:49 pm
129.Just Fire Baby Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 3:52 pm
Mayock said Honey Badger had about a 3rd or 4th round grade after last year (who really knows, but that was his opinion).
5′8, 170 pounds who plays more safety than corner.
Top-flight kick returner though. I think that is about the only thing he will play in the NFL.
————————————————————————————————————–
Honey Badger has the uncanny ability to make Game Changing plays. He causes fumbles, sacks the QB on the blitz and can cover well in a zone defense. He does so many things that you can’t teach you just sit back as coaches and teammates and reap the benefits. Dude can ball. He’s the type of guy who is the smallest in a gang fight but will insist on being right in the front to knock out the biggest dude on the other side.
He’s going to tear it up in 1AA this year and hopefully Reggie trades up into the second round and grabs him for us.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:51 pm
I got so sick of the idiots broadcasting the games that I sit in the john….only quiet haven in the house….and
listen to Greg and Tom…..call me a homer if you want.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:53 pm
504-I remember watching him play last year.He is just a natural although I didn’t realize he was so small.Is he big enough to play CB/S at the NFL level?He could surely be a return man and a damn good one at that.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:53 pm
504 ’scuse my ignorance……but who is Honey Badger?
August 11th, 2012 at 5:54 pm
Lefty,
Gruden is going to heap ton of praise on the new regime, the fans, and talk us up as a team that could win the division.
Tirico, will rain on that a little, just to create some back and forth.
But it will be mostly positive from the booth that night. Remember, opening night they are in Oakland, they want to pump us up if for nothing else but try to bolster ratings.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:56 pm
Twinkle-I love having the sound down on the TV and listening to our announcers.The only problem is they are usually 30-60 seconds behind the TV broadcast.Frustrating as he!!.
August 11th, 2012 at 5:57 pm
504,
You can call it uncanny, but I think he was a tad lucky (other than the return game, where he looks every bit the part of a pro bowl NFL return man).
I mean, the Oregon game, he tackles the returner who fumbles and it bounces right into his stomach for a TD? Come on!!!
And playing on that D helps him a lot. He isn’t going to be allowed to play “rover” like he did at LSU.
I don’t see him making any impact at the NFL level, as a 5′8 170 pound safety.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:01 pm
JFB,you know Jerrah will be brought up into the booth.But I hope you are correct.It would be a nice change-ESPN announcers giving the only True Nation some love.BTW,did you read the article by Jerry Mac and see how Chuckie went with the Tennessee Nation connection?
August 11th, 2012 at 6:03 pm
He did call it Volunteer Nation didn’t he?
SMH……..everything is a Nation these days!!!!
August 11th, 2012 at 6:04 pm
Maybe they can bring Mark Davis into the booth, and he can represent Chico State for us alum, and be completely bombed.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:07 pm
Twinkle Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 5:53 pm
504 ’scuse my ignorance……but who is Honey Badger?
============================================
Glad I’m not the only one who was wondering that…
August 11th, 2012 at 6:07 pm
I guess we’ll just have to get used to it knowing we were the originals.LOL
August 11th, 2012 at 6:07 pm
Kind of Boring in here today..
Looks like I’m heading to Sweet Finger’s in San Leandro to get me some Jerk Chicken w/ Beans and Rice..
August 11th, 2012 at 6:10 pm
Lefty it’s the only way to go….imo….the next step for me was to sh!tcan the TV.
That also ended up forcing me to talk to the missus a hell of a lot more…..maybe I’ll get a TV again.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:10 pm
Yep that was an awesome interview with Chucky…Mr. Jer and I enjoyed every bit of it. Good looking out Jer! I miss ole Chucky! No doubt about it.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:12 pm
Twinkle, Honey Badger is Tyrann Mathieu who was just kicked off the team at LSU for a third failed drug test.
JFB,
you can call it luck if you want but this guy is always around something good happening on defense. There were so many plays that never show up in the stats that he is a part of. I watched all his games. He was responsible for getting the LSU defense off the field on 3rd down so many times you lose count.
He was a New Orleans pop warner and high school legend and was overlooked by big colleges because he was short. He went to visit Tennessee and Bama and left both without an offer. LSU was his third choice and Les Miles offered him a scholarship.
All he did in two years of college football was earn a nickname and win the Bednarik award.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:12 pm
RaiderDuck Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 6:07 pm
Twinkle Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 5:53 pm
504 ’scuse my ignorance……but who is Honey Badger?
============================================
Glad I’m not the only one who was wondering that…
==============================
He’s the CB/S from LSU that was kicked off the team for failing at least his 3rd drug test.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:16 pm
Just my own opinion…..but chucky was awesome.
Two firsts….Two seconds….and $8 million cash!!!
plus we didn’t have see him every Sunday.
I’m sure he’s much happier in the booth fending off all those NFL job offers……not!!!!
August 11th, 2012 at 6:18 pm
504,
I just don’t see him making that type of impact at the NFL level with his size, and without really a position.
He is going to have to play a position with a defined role, and won’t be on a team that generates 5 turnovers every game.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:18 pm
This is the best way to help you guys understand Tyrann Mathieu:
LSU had #5 pick Pat Peterson and #6 pick Morris Claiborne in the lineup the last two years and if you asked 100 LSU fans who was the best DB on the team, 95 would say Tyrann Mathieu. And remember, Pat Peterson returned kicks too. So don’t think Mathieu moved up in our eyes because he can return a punt.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:19 pm
Chuckie makes as much as an NFL HC,doesn’t have to put in nearly as many hours,doesn’t have the pressure,and gets to sleep in his bed at home most nights.He is in a much happier place.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:20 pm
Twinkle Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 6:16 pm
Just my own opinion…..but chucky was awesome.
Two firsts….Two seconds….and $8 million cash!!!
plus we didn’t have see him every Sunday.
I’m sure he’s much happier in the booth fending off all those NFL job offers……not!!!!
===========================================
Why wouldn’t he be happier in the booth? He’s getting more than most NFL teams would pay, and no 18-hour days.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:20 pm
170 pounds? I don’t know. Maybe he could fall down in front of someone and trip them up.
Sounds kind of lite.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:21 pm
504-5′7″ CBs are ok in college,but how many are successful at the next level?
August 11th, 2012 at 6:21 pm
JFB,
If Rex Ryan gets his paws on Tyrann Mathieu, he’s going to make Ryan be considered the best defensive coach in NFL hitory.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:22 pm
Lefty that is really sad.
How many of em fall by the wayside?It’s bloody hard sh!t
to get away from….here in the east bay it is the norm
and just about everyone went to school with someone who
would have or could have…………
August 11th, 2012 at 6:26 pm
Duck…..Truth!!!
but you know the deal….everyone will remember Billicheat……chucky who?
August 11th, 2012 at 6:28 pm
504,your opinion is highly respected but everyone should realize you are an LSU/SEC homer.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:28 pm
Lefty,
Fat placekickers are not supposed to make it in the league. QB’s barely 6ft are not supposed to be good in the league. 5′8” and under 200 lbs RBs are not supposed to make it as everydown backs. 5′9” 189 lbs WR’s?
I can go on and on.
Whoever lets this kid out of the second round is making a big mistake. And I’m grading him low for the draft because I understand there will be biases against his height.
His position in the NFL will be nickle back. He will cover the slot and be the prototype to do it.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:30 pm
504 the one thing no TV does is stop me seeing college ball….so I end up clueless as who’s coming down the pipe.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:35 pm
eastoaklandraider Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 6:26 pm
Lefty,
Not saying that TP is our savior but as you admitted they have similar skill sets. And Cam was not a great passer at Auburn as he made most big plays with his feet. During the offseason when many were questioning his ability to play at the pro level he hired a coach to work with him and he showed at his pro day how he had changed his throwing motion and footwork causing his draft status to sky rocket. If Cam can do it I don’t see why TP can’t. That’s all I’m sayn.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:35 pm
504-I’m not saying he can’t succeed.I’m saying he’ll face tremendous odds.When he comes out if we(the Raiders) grab him,I’ll root for the kid.If we don’t I couldn’t care less.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:37 pm
lefty12 Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 6:28 pm
504,your opinion is highly respected but everyone should realize you are an LSU/SEC homer.
******************************
with good reason no doubt.I imagine there are worse things to be called than a ‘Bayou Tiger homer’.My guess is that he’s an Oakland Raider homer as well.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:39 pm
That he is and a damn good one from what I can tell by reading his comments.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:40 pm
Muph and cambell having good days in carolina
August 11th, 2012 at 6:43 pm
I don’t think size will be that big of an issue for Honey badger. Guys in college are just as big as guys in the pro’s. Bob Sanders comes to mind when I think of undersized Dbs I know he’s had his share of injury problems but a great player regardless of size. HB is not Bob sanders but I do think he can have some success at the pro level just maybe not at a pro bowl level.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:47 pm
East,I never said Pryor CAN’T,I said until he does I’ll continue to have doubts.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:48 pm
And so far he hasn’t shown he can on a consistent basis.Hopefully he will in the future.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:48 pm
I am an LSU Homer and proud member of the Raider Nation. When the kid comes out next year I just hope we get him. He’s one of those guys that succeed despite their lack of height.
Brees, Vick, Barry Sanders, Steve Smith etc.
I think the style of defense we play now will benefit the kid. The one we had before that, no way. He would be a fish out of water. Like I said, Rex Ryan is salivating at the prospect of landing this kid. This kid is unreal. Hey, don’t take my word for it. I never spoke this highly of Pat Peterson or Mo Claiborne. They’re good but this kid is something else.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:49 pm
Speaking of homers….does anyone remember the Tooz
doing color commentary on televised games with, maybe,
Todd Christensen or was that just a dream I had?
I saw two Raider games with em (I think) and Tooz (god
bless him) could not (or would not) refrain from saying
we…us…them…etc.Funnier than than hell.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:50 pm
Honey = slot/nickle db
August 11th, 2012 at 6:54 pm
Ocho Cinco arrested in MIA. Domestic.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:55 pm
MH….been meaning to ask (love the nom des plume btw)
mullet?…Bowl cut?…or a hybrid maybe?
Gotta love the way the new Boss doesn’t give a sh!t.
August 11th, 2012 at 6:58 pm
Silly bastards….don’t pound on the missus….remember
‘you da man’…go pound on your fukking pit bull instead.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:02 pm
Twinkle Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 6:49 pm
Speaking of homers….does anyone remember the Tooz
doing color commentary on televised games with, maybe,
Todd Christensen or was that just a dream I had?
I saw two Raider games with em (I think) and Tooz (god
bless him) could not (or would not) refrain from saying
we…us…them…etc.Funnier than than hell.
===================================
Not sure, but during ESPN’s first season (when the commentators were Mike Patrick, Roy Firestone and a Commentator-of-the-Week) they had John Matuszak on for one game. Todd Christensen also had a recurring segment on “Inside the NFL” during that time period (this was when Len Dawson and Nic Buoniconti co-hosted).
August 11th, 2012 at 7:04 pm
Lefty12 Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 6:35 pm
504-I’m not saying he can’t succeed.I’m saying he’ll face tremendous odds.When he comes out if we(the Raiders) grab him,I’ll root for the kid.If we don’t I couldn’t care less.
$$$$$$$$$$$$$
“I couldn’t care less”
LOL
Who said you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. lol
You are a grumpy old man, but I like you, and I enjoy our debates/ arguments.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:07 pm
Luke Kueckly barely hit that vegetarian and he fumbled. Arian Foster better get him a porterhouse after the game and get his strength back.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:08 pm
Seahawks pick 6 on the first play from scrimmage vs Titans.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:08 pm
504 Raider Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 7:08 pm
Seahawks pick 6 on the first play from scrimmage vs Titans.
======================================
Flynn or Jackson?
August 11th, 2012 at 7:14 pm
Oh, the Titans threw it.
(Wife’s a Seachickens fan)
August 11th, 2012 at 7:17 pm
NFL Network reports that Chad Johnson OchoCinco Johnson’s been arrest for domestic violence.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:17 pm
Duck…do you remember if that was a Raider game (had to be as I wouldn’t have been watching anyone else)?
hell sorry man I’ll go google the thing.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:23 pm
Twinkle Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 7:17 pm
Duck…do you remember if that was a Raider game (had to be as I wouldn’t have been watching anyone else)?
hell sorry man I’ll go google the thing.
==============================================
Not sure at all. It was 1987.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:30 pm
Meanwhile, per Barksdale’s tweets, it was Rookie Haircut Day…
August 11th, 2012 at 7:40 pm
There is no doubt about now. It has been confirmed. Straight up, hands down. Its unanimus.
The die has been cast. The wheels are in motion.
The Seattle Seahawks
have the
butt ass ugliest uniforms
of all time
any sport on the planet
ever!!!
known to mankind.
Pure ugliness at its best, worst, imaginable.
Puke. Period.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:41 pm
Duck I’m still googling but if anyone wants to read a great blog about Al………….
http://joeposnanski.blogspot.com/2011/10/last-great-villain-in-sports.html
August 11th, 2012 at 7:41 pm
Meanwhile, is there anything cooler than the Silver and Black Raidah?
Hell no.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:42 pm
beating out even the donkeys?
August 11th, 2012 at 7:44 pm
Seahawks’ uniforms are ugly. Neon green? Really?!
August 11th, 2012 at 7:44 pm
the donkeys uni reminds me of an age old favorite
gin and coke!
August 11th, 2012 at 7:45 pm
Twinkle Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 7:42 pm
beating out even the donkeys?
lllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll
Oh, the donks are ugly, butt ass ugly, no question about it. But do they make you puke like the seahawks? I think not.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:47 pm
You can hate us,be ambivalent,whatever…..
we HAVE got the best,coolest…Uniforms….PERIOD.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:50 pm
504,
We will see, I certainly can see him playing nickle corner, and maybe being good at it.
But this notion he is going to run around scoring TD’s defensively, getting sacks and forcing fumbles is nonsense.
He will be lucky to be as good as the last nickle corner/undersized/kick returner from the SEC, Javier Arenas.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:51 pm
Well, that should about do it for Ocho Cinco.
Can’t imagine the Fins want that on the camera’s for Hard Knocks, for a middling player.
One is 2 many Chad, haven’t you seen the commercial?
August 11th, 2012 at 7:57 pm
Chads career has been over and this is what some athlete’s do when they are out of the Limelight (no Rush pun intended).
All the genius’s that wanted AL to sign Chad just go to the corner and face the wall & think about your actions.
August 11th, 2012 at 7:59 pm
MG its been a while since I’ve seen a squawk uni…
prolly about the time they got booted from the AFC West
and rose to the level of the sum of their ineptitude
the NFC West…..used to be blue and white with a native
totem that looked….never mind…and had Largent stamped on the back…or 7/11 as in always open.
gonna go google something more hideous than the donkey uni
August 11th, 2012 at 8:04 pm
# 79
Agreed….doubt I’ll write that often.
August 11th, 2012 at 8:06 pm
So tomorrow is Raider Nation celebration,it’s going to be fun for those who go there, wish i could go
August 11th, 2012 at 8:07 pm
MG you are dead right….dayglo green heysoos.
August 11th, 2012 at 8:07 pm
JFB,
Javier Arenas, LOL!
Tyrann Mathieu was better in high school than Arenas was at Bama.
August 11th, 2012 at 8:13 pm
One thing gets proven every year:
The four guys at the Heisman ceremony that stand and congratulate the guy who actually wins the trophy, most often end up having better pro careers than the Winner. Tyrann Mathieu was one of those four guys at the last presentation.
August 11th, 2012 at 8:36 pm
There is no way Matthieu has a good NFL career. None.
For one, he has no discipline at all. How do you get caught doing drugs three times in a little over a year? It means you really don’t give a crap (insert lame honey badger joke here).
Secondly, he is 3 and a half feet tall and weighs about 124lbs. Yeah, I get that he played in the SEC and made plays. We have seen time and again SEC players get hyped due to being the best conference (I am a Big 10 guy so I will give respect where it is due), and then wash out.
At best he is, as stated earlier, a nickel or slot corner, IF you would even want him on the team. I wouldn’t knowing full well he would be suspended half of his first two seasons by King Goodell.
I definitely would not use a high draft pick on him. 2nd rounder? Yeah, right.
August 11th, 2012 at 8:46 pm
Lived in Seattle’s U District back in the early 90’s and went to few Husky games.Two really funny memories.
During an apple cup game a bunch of Wazoo fans unrolled this huge banner that read….UW replaces grass field with astroturf….To stop the cheerleaders from grazing.
After one wing of the stadium totally collapsed and had to be removed as rubble…..a huge sign was hung out on the remaining wing….Stadium 1 – Huskies 0
August 11th, 2012 at 8:49 pm
GF21 21…you must be mistaken.We got Jamarcus…oh wait a minute….
August 11th, 2012 at 8:51 pm
GForce21 Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 8:36 pm
There is no way Matthieu has a good NFL career. None.
For one, he has no discipline at all. How do you get caught doing drugs three times in a little over a year? It means you really don’t give a crap (insert lame honey badger joke here).
————————————————————————————————————–
If Ricky Williams announced tomorrow that he wanted to play another year, you would be the first guy on here saying “get him Reggie.”
August 11th, 2012 at 8:54 pm
504 Raider Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 8:51 pm
GForce21 Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 8:36 pm
There is no way Matthieu has a good NFL career. None.
For one, he has no discipline at all. How do you get caught doing drugs three times in a little over a year? It means you really don’t give a crap (insert lame honey badger joke here).
————————————————————————————————————–
If Ricky Williams announced tomorrow that he wanted to play another year, you would be the first guy on here saying “get him Reggie.”
——————————-
I would? You must be mistaking me for someone you actually really know.
August 11th, 2012 at 8:58 pm
OK GF21,
You don’t like Tyrann Mathieu. I get it now.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:01 pm
If Ricky Williams announced tomorrow that he wanted to play another year, you would be the first guy on here saying “get him Reggie.”
=============================
That might be me!LOL
August 11th, 2012 at 9:01 pm
MTHR FCKN SHT. 9 pm and its still 102 degrees.
I like pain.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:05 pm
It seems like the new regime is far more interested in their players personalities than Al.If that is the case then I imagine the young man will be playing elsewhere if he plays at all.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:08 pm
Twinkle Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 8:49 pm
GF21 21…you must be mistaken.We got Jamarcus…oh wait a minute….
—————–
Yeah, was being mindful of not opening that can of worms. Haha.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:09 pm
Lefty I may join you….who’s to say he don’t have one left in him?…..Man did Ricky ever get a beating?….
reminds in some ways of Earl Campbell.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:11 pm
RFL…102…where are you at?
just so I can avoid it.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:14 pm
Man, Russell Wilson can play. Another guy who fell in the draft because he was a few inches short in height.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:16 pm
Russell Wilson is the man. I grew up in Wisconsin and am a huge Badger fan. Really poised kid and has a great arm.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:17 pm
I wouldn’t mind having a R. Williams sitting there in case my top 2 guys went down.He’d be better than someone like Cedric Benson.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:21 pm
Something for the idiots across the bridge to look forward to.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:23 pm
Anyone have any idea why Benson ain’t got a job?
August 11th, 2012 at 9:24 pm
Didn’t he sign with GB?
August 11th, 2012 at 9:27 pm
Not officially but the rumors are fast and furious.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:28 pm
Not often a 1000 yard back gets totally ignored as a FA.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:28 pm


August 11th, 2012 at 9:29 pm
He is 29. His career average is not impressive. Doesn’t have any wiggle. Not fast.
He is probably asking for more money being that he has posted three straight thousand yard seasons.
Green Bay is supposed to sign him in a day or two though.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:37 pm
I read on here some cats mention Benson might be gay. And that might be a locker room distraction. If true.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:39 pm
RFL…102…where are you at?
just so I can avoid it.
##############
Smack dab in the middle of California. Think it got close to 111 today. Fkd me up.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:42 pm
RB R.Jackson said on the Raider web page that he was sure the Black Hole would be ready and pumped Monday night and he would be just as ready and pumped.That hasn’t always been the case the last few years or at least it seemed that way by the effort we’ve seen on the field.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:43 pm
504, I am pretty sure its true. He beat up his “live in friend” recently. The battery charge may be concerning some teams as well.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:51 pm
Benson aint going to Oakland. The Reg checked him out and passed.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:54 pm
Johnson, wife argued over receipt for condoms
LOL!! What a dmb fck.
This is why the Raiders aren’t gonna pick up plax or any other dip sht.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:57 pm
Yeah I’m sure if he’s gay then guys don’t want that in locker room. Not that they hate gays I guess you know if they can avoid it then why not.
Me and the wife went out to dinner the other night at a nice restaurant and there’s these two guys at a booth table sitting face to face. I said to my wife “I hope their girlfriends are in the powder room.” So either they were gay or their girlfriends both had diarrhea.
Being gay doesn’t bother me, but if I could avoid being around gay dudes doing their thing I will. Now gay broads? Love’em.
August 11th, 2012 at 9:58 pm
I gave up Fantasy FB a few years ago because I got tired of having to root for guys on teams I despised.However,tonight I helped my SIL at his draft and the rush was there.Still won’t get back into it,but it was fun.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:00 pm
Russell Wilson better than Tarvares Jackson right now.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:00 pm
Man, Russell Wilson doing his thing.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:01 pm
He will end up starting. He is better than Flynn.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:01 pm
Okay, maybe not week 1, but this year sometime.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:02 pm
504 Raider Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 10:00 pm
Russell Wilson better than Tarvares Jackson right now.
===========================
And the fact anyone does better than Jackson surprises you?
August 11th, 2012 at 10:02 pm
I can see Chad Johnson arguing with his wife telling her “Child Please!!!, I bought them rubbers for Reggie cus Kim cam down this weekend.”
August 11th, 2012 at 10:05 pm
Raiders for life Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 9:51 pm
Benson aint going to Oakland. The Reg checked him out and passed.
————————————————————–
What do you think the Reggiem has in mind? We are officially paper thin at running back and linebacker. We are sitting with approx 7 million in cap room and zip. No moves. The team had to see the writing on the wall with Curry.
Jones–> never been healthy
McFadden–> no complete season
Goodson–> Chicken neck
Are we really going to score touchdowns with lonayae?? miller as the go-to running back? Against the cowgirl starters?
We had better get Janikowski a tub of ice after the game on Monday cause he is gonna get tested…
August 11th, 2012 at 10:09 pm
One of those reporters tweeted that Ryan Grant was on hold right now for Reggie. I guess they want to see what Lonyae has Monday and next week.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:13 pm
We are done signing over the hill,over rated players for too damn much money.Benson is replaceable with more young RBs than could be counted on all your digits(fingers and toes combined).Miller can do the job just as well as an overpaid,over-rated Benson.It is time Raider fans quit falling in love with other team’s has-beens.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:16 pm
Pretty good interview of Gruden. Nice job by Jerry.
Gruden was a pretty good coach. Definitely high energy. Well prepared.
I always felt he was a little too conservative and there was too much dinking and dunking for my taste, but some of that could be attributed to Gannon’s less than powerful arm.
I don’t believe he had a great relationship with Al, but Jon has always been very respectful and seems to genuinely appreciate the time he spent with the Raids.
Davis sure got a hell of a bounty when he sent Gruden to Tampa. It was the right thing to do. Unfortunately, the draft picks were mainly wasted and running into Gruden’s Bucs in the SB was a bad break.
Sometimes you make the right move but it doesn’t turn out the way you hoped. Such is life.
Personally, I hope Gruden does not return to coaching. I enjoy his work as an announcer too much. Always look forward to his Gruden QB camp shows on ESPN.
Gruden was a good coach. He’s a fine announcer and TV personality. Despite the fact that things didn’t work out the way they could have between him and the Raids, I can’t dislike the guy and think he deserves a warm homecoming from the Nation.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:22 pm
Well said Lefty. Why sign players at the end of their career (Benson & Plax) when you can have young players with potential like Miller, Streater and Calhoun?
August 11th, 2012 at 10:22 pm
If I were Reggie, I would offer a vet minimum contract to Shockey.
Joseph Addai, Cadillac Williams, Ryan Grant, Clinton Portis and a couple other vets are available.
I was hoping to sign Chris Polk as an undrafted FA, but he went to Philly.
We may well be completely hosed at LB unless we find something as teams cut down to 53.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:24 pm
99-find it difficult to believe you accept Gannon and his noodle arm.Often wonder how you felt watching other noodle arms like Stabler,Montana,Young,Cook,and Brees just to name a few-all noodle arms who were/are intelligent QBs much like our BU.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:26 pm
I’m sorry,had quite a few brews.That was uncalled for.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:29 pm
Ryan Grant, interesting FA. Reggie would know him and he does have some 1000 yard seasons…
August 11th, 2012 at 10:31 pm
GF21,
If Shockey is a good fit for us it would have already happened by now as DA was down here in N.O. with Shockey. You think Reggie didn’t bark up that tree? Yet he signed Humphrey who was with the Saints as well.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:34 pm
Raidertalk,that is true,but is he,like many other older vets,willing to sign KNOWING their role is a back-up?That is why I don’t believe we’ve signed some vet players.We are making it clear they are being signed as depth and they don’t want that.They want the opportunity to start and we aren’t giving them that opportunity.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:35 pm
94.Twinkle Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 9:05 pm
It seems like the new regime is far more interested in their players personalities than Al.If that is the case then I imagine the young man will be playing elsewhere if he plays at all.
—
Don’t forget the FIRST guy Reggie brought in here was a guy who’d been arrested multiple times including being accused of raping a woman after a Packer charity event…Brandon Underwood.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:37 pm
GForce,
U grew up in Wisconsin? Not that I want your personal info but can u share whereabouts?
I’ve spent alot of time in America’s Dairyland myself.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:43 pm
…but darn it 7 mill in cap space and no moves… i guess we’re waiting for the camp casualties… hopefully some good LBs can fall
August 11th, 2012 at 10:43 pm
Russell WIlson threw a horrible int. in the 4th. That’s all I saw so I have to say i’m not impressed.
As unfair as that is.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:45 pm
Raidertalk-better to have that money when it might be needed than to squander it now and then be strapped.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:45 pm
lefty12 Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 10:34 pm
Raidertalk,that is true,but is he,like many other older vets,willing to sign KNOWING their role is a back-up?That is why I don’t believe we’ve signed some vet players.We are making it clear they are being signed as depth and they don’t want that.They want the opportunity to start and we aren’t giving them that opportunity.
———————————————————-
True, but a vet may see the injury hist and see a good chance at starting somewhere down the line
August 11th, 2012 at 10:47 pm
A place called Hurley, way, way up north along the border of the UP of Michigan.
The Army did let me go to Madison from 2005-2008. I want to retire there, but not thinking the wife is going to let me.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:49 pm
Then they should sign for the minimum and try and make the team instead of asking for more than they are actually worth-the minimum.
August 11th, 2012 at 10:49 pm
Lefty, what do think about the LB situation tho, pretty thin no?
August 11th, 2012 at 10:55 pm
I’d like to sign a vet to back up outside.We should be fine in the middle.Again,I want a vet BACK-UP,not someone who doesn’t understand he is being brought in for insurance in case one of the young guys gets injured.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:00 pm
Lefty, I think Gannon was an excellent QB. If he was a better pure passer he could have been a truly great QB.
Gannon was a fabulous field general. One of the best I’ve seen. Guy was a fiery leader and made things happen. Was a master at moving the chains. How many times did we see him scramble for a first down in crucial situations ? The Monday night game when the Raids spread the Squeelers out and Gannon couldn’t miss was a masterpiece.
I happen to rank Stabler way ahead of Gannon, but agree he didn’t have a great arm either. Snake was a better pure passer though and had an incredible clutch gene. Stabler did benefit from some of the greatest protection the NFL has ever seen.
There’s no doubt you can be a great QB without posessing a bazooka for an arm, but that doesn’t mean arm strength isn’t an extremely important determinant to a QB’s success and can possibly make or break a career.
Most people will mention Montana when the greatest QB of all time is debated. Rightfully so. How can you argue with all the rings ?
But for my money, I’m taking Elway every time over Joe Montana. And a large part of that is due to Elway’s cannon and having the ability to make throws Joe couldn’t.
All things being equal, I’m looking for a QB that can fire. At the same time, I’m not going to disregard all the other factors that are essential to success at the NFL level.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:03 pm
94.Twinkle Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 9:05 pm
It seems like the new regime is far more interested in their players personalities than Al.If that is the case then I imagine the young man will be playing elsewhere if he plays at all.
—
We go to the Dells all the time. My bro in law has a cabin in Holcombe. I’ve spent alot of time up in Hayward, Rhinelander area too.
I used to work at WJJO in Madison.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:05 pm
What do you think is the “point of no return” where we can get some vets or younger FAs and get them on board with the team/scheme? Maybe before the last of preseason? Hopefully Reggie can get some LBs and RBs asap. Paper thin now at both positions imo
August 11th, 2012 at 11:11 pm
133.Good Point DJ.and they seem to be in Romacs corner
for now at least.Makes it kinda hard to see what their strategy is.In the past it was all about blinding speed
or a cannon arm.I’ve gotta think that they have their
eye on some people who are gonna get cut rather than one
player hence only 88 on the roster.Can’t believe it’s so
bad that they won’t spend that $7 mil.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:13 pm
I want to see how the young guys are at LB and see what Miller adds at RB before I’d concede we are thin.But as I said,if we can get a couple of vets at the minimum that understand they are there for depth purposes I’m all for it.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:17 pm
DJ Johnny Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 11:03 pm
—
We go to the Dells all the time. My bro in law has a cabin in Holcombe. I’ve spent alot of time up in Hayward, Rhinelander area too.
I used to work at WJJO in Madison.
———————-
WJJO! I went to Band Camp every year I was in Madison. One of the guys I enlisted, his girlfriend was a JJO girl. She was smoking hot.
Joe Stocco’s (Wisconsins starting QB) girlfriend worked at Hooters, she was pretty amazing as well.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:17 pm
Raidertalk Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 11:05 pm
What do you think is the “point of no return” where we can get some vets or younger FAs and get them on board with the team/scheme? Maybe before the last of preseason? Hopefully Reggie can get some LBs and RBs asap. Paper thin now at both positions imo
========================================
It’ll have to be final cuts. Any player unsigned right now is unsigned for a very good reason: 32 teams didn’t think him good enough to make a 90-man roster, owing either to a lack of skill, lack of character or both. Signing Benson, Grant or whoever is based more on hope than realism. Reggie’s not going to sign someone just to sign him, and he’s not going to spend money just to spend it. Wait until the second set of cuts, when all 32 teams have to cut 27 players each. Reggie will swoop in and offer the ones he wants good solid deals, and they’ll be ours.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:21 pm
Dang that Bolt cat from Jamaica is fkn fast. Wonder if he can catch a football?
August 11th, 2012 at 11:24 pm
GFORCE,
I assume you met Johnny and Greg? Greg is the funnier of the two imo.
I’m good friends with Blake Patton.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:24 pm
Good comment Duck, been trying to tell this blog that Reggie isn’t an impulse buyer. He’s a coupon cutter that will payoff in a year or two.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:26 pm
i second that Duck!
it’s going to be really impressive what BigMac does for us coming up …
is Burris really the guy? because OLB needs attention really badly right now. here’s hoping someone very solid hits the market.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:27 pm
99 well said in defense of Gannon and (guilt by association) Gruden but I did not like either of em.
I’ll just leave it at that and I guess the deal was that
it was not the Raider brand of ball…at least not what we were used too.I believe Al hated it but tolerated it
as long as it won.
That Stabler isn’t in the HOF is a travesty.The fact that
Madden was far more comfortable with Stabler calling the
games than himself speaks volumes.Fact he called him the
best game manager he’d ever come across.Gannon is not in that class….few people are.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:28 pm
Haha, yeah. The morning show was pretty funny. I agree, Danger was absolutely the less entertaining of the two.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:34 pm
Is Blake Patton still at JJO? Heard he retired.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:35 pm
Fun waxing nostalgic on Gruden yrs.
For all the dink and dunk they did the Raiders were pretty explosive offensively….Especially the year AFTER Gruden left.
Then…it all went to heck.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:37 pm
Gannon is not in that class….few people are.
======================
Someone who knows what they’re talking about.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:38 pm
Xraided Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 11:26 pm
is Burris really the guy? because OLB needs attention really badly right now. here’s hoping someone very solid hits the market.
==========================================
Burris would ideally wait a year before starting full-time, but if Curry doesn’t come back, we don’t have that luxury. Fortunately, Burris seems bright, aware and a gamer.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:39 pm
is Burris really the guy? because OLB needs attention really badly right now. here’s hoping someone very solid hits the market
##############################
That guy might already be on the Raiders roster. I’ve been rooting for Ihenacho but today Lefty12 pointed out Kilgore. I youtubed him and was like FUUUUUUUK. Hopefully one of these kids steps up to back up Burris, pretty bleak that Curry comes back anytime soon. And thats a shame.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:44 pm
yea still no word on Curry’s second opinion. outlook not so good.
we just don’t know what we have in Burris. i’d say BigMac signs an OLB first, then a TE secondly.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:45 pm
Kilgore, really? wouldn’t that be a nice surprise. same deal for Goethel!
August 11th, 2012 at 11:48 pm
Goethel wouldn’t be a surprise.He has shown he belongs for the last couple of years but injuries have derailed him.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:49 pm
Overall I think the Raiders LB crew will be better this year. Wimbley was only good when he had his hand in the grass. Wheeler having a good camp killing his team mates. Reading nothing but positive vibrations about McClain. Now throw in Tenacious B.
(lol, I love that nick name)
August 11th, 2012 at 11:50 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6R9noK10gpU
not bad at all.. hopefully we see a heavy dose of him against the cow patties!
August 11th, 2012 at 11:52 pm
Burris,Kilgore,Goethel,Ihenacho-I’d rather roll with them than some over-priced,past his prime vet who has peaked and is on the downside of his career-unless he accepts being a back-up to one of these young guys.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:52 pm
You’re right again Lefty.
Heard Goethels # called a few times during practice. (tweets) Hope he stays healthy and becomes a reliable player.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:53 pm
wasn’t it 2 practices ago that DA said Burris had a “long way to go before he becomes an every down player for us” ?
August 11th, 2012 at 11:54 pm
Don’t rule out Stupar just yet either. NASTYNATE
August 11th, 2012 at 11:55 pm
well yea lefty, more depth. that’s what i mean when i say i hope they pick up a solid player. someone at a bargin like the Bartell signing.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:57 pm
We have a ‘long way to go’ before we start playing games for real.And for the record he said he just needs to be more consistent.When I watched Curry last year the same could be said for him.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:57 pm
Unless I have miscounted (strong possibility) we have seven LB’s on the squad.Two of whom are doubtful.As the cards lay that would almost rule out (that and the fact we have no true NT) the 3-4 alignment.I reckon they have seen enough of the kids in there to be comfortable with
who we have.Lets face it…..in the new era of the 32 teams that suck….you can’t have it all.There are going
to be holes.That’s why there is a new SB winner every
year….it’s mandated by the league to spread the gospel.
August 11th, 2012 at 11:58 pm
Goodnight guys.Go Raiders.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:01 am
X,
Allen also said that Burris won’t learn everything he needs to in one year. Too much to soak in.
But I don’t recall DA saying he can’t be an everydown player. I could be wrong though.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:01 am
X…that is funnier than hell….cowpatties…hahaha
The amount of ingenuity in here that goes toward demeaning names for the other clubs is outstanding.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:02 am
Nite Lefty…good session!!!
August 12th, 2012 at 12:04 am
My Sleeper at LB is Kaelin Burnett.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:04 am
156.GForce21 Says:
August 11th, 2012 at 11:34 pm
Is Blake Patton still at JJO? Heard he retired.
—
He did retire. I exaggerate when I say he and I are “good friends”. I should say we used to be. He is probably the main reason my stay there was so brief.
He’s alright though.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:07 am
504…too right!!
We’re worried about a LB shortage and I bet the rest of
the league is waiting to see if we cut one (so to speak)
August 12th, 2012 at 12:11 am
My Sleeper at LB is Kaelin Burnett.
###########################
I was keeping my eye on Mario Kurn. He’s now out with a knee injury.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:16 am
Good interview, thanks Jerry.
Allen’s program seems strong.
Over the next 2-3 years
the players who show and prove will remain,
the salary issues may be resolved,
money will be available for quality FA’s,
draft picks will be accumulated
and this team can get ready to be a perennial contender
2012- 9 wins or bust
2013- playoffs or bust
2014- AFC west or bust
2015- AFC or bust
August 12th, 2012 at 12:16 am
#165.
X that’s a damn good look at why the Raiders are not so concerned about the LB’s as we are in here.A LB doing a
standing backflip!!!!!!!!!!!!heysoos.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:20 am
As long as the Raiders win while Burris is learning, its all good.
If he gets a strong grasp of the D by Dec/Jan and playoffs are in reach then great! That really goes for all players. This is a new system for everyone…except Leinart but he should only hand off the ball and take a knee at the end of blowout victories this year.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:20 am
To show how fast things are going, at this time next week we’ll be talking about how the first 2 games went and breaking down the all important week 3…which is actually just 2 weeks away now.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:23 am
J…Agreed.
It’s the small market mentality that has worked in GB for 100 years or so.We are in the same mold.There was only one Al and I can’t think of a better organization
to model ourselves by than GB now that a new era is forced upon us.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:27 am
Raiders got some pretty good players on both sides of the ball. Only 4 household names though, DMAC, CP, Lechler and Seabass.
If Allen can hold the locker room and not get his nails done, that goes a long way.
Boise St is a great example. Peterson and a bunch of no names. Chris holds down the fort.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:32 am
I believe our new scheme will mean more for our defense than a certain player. Just plug the player in. I would rather have an unpredictable defense with non household names than have the one we’ve been seeing last 7 or 8 years.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:35 am
J….dude how long has it been since you were able to say
the words ‘I feel comfortable at the QB position’?
Leinart was a steal and gives us a chance to compete if the horrible happens.Also gives Pryor a fighting chance
to get a clue.A luxury not many clubs have.
This league now is about health.Was not that way in the past.You stay healthy….you win.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:35 am
504,
Amen to that.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:36 am
188.Twinkle Says:
August 12th, 2012 at 12:35 am
J….dude how long has it been since you were able to say
the words ‘I feel comfortable at the QB position’?
Leinart was a steal and gives us a chance to compete if the horrible happens.Also gives Pryor a fighting chance
to get a clue.A luxury not many clubs have.
This league now is about health.Was not that way in the past.You stay healthy….you win.
—
Look how fragile Denvers position is. If Manning goes down Caleb Hanie is their backup.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:37 am
..I mean Caleb Hanie is their starter.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:44 am
I hope Tarver and Knapp aren’t in a rush to be NFL head coaches. I’d like to see this staff stay together for a while.
Hey Jerry &/or Steve!
Get an Al Saunders interview sometime. Some of us would like to hear his views on the changes taking place.
He needs a nickname. Grandmaster Al, Sensei Al, Sifu Al… Al wise… Ol’ @ss Al. OG Al
I take credit for “D-Wow” & “V12″ but Im drawing a blank on Mr. Saunders
August 12th, 2012 at 12:46 am
Twink,
wow. comfortable? its been a long time, Gannon I guess. Hopeful? I thought JC earn the opportunity but he proved to be no more than the quality backup he is.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:48 am
My point exactly…but for some reason I just can’t find it in me to feel sorry for the donks position.
BTW…PM’s decision to play a few games in Denver rates
right up there with Aikman’s decision to play at OU.
I guess he thought Barry said ‘30 passes a game’ not 30 passes a year.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:54 am
I wouldn’t be surprised if Leinart hung around and waited for CP to burn out. I cant imagine another team offering him a starting position anytime soon. what would be their basis? strong preseason? certainly not past performance. In the last post, QB coach DiPhillipo (sp?) seemed open to the possibility of Pryor developing into an NFL qb eventually.
August 12th, 2012 at 1:01 am
I love the mile high hype. build him up then break him down. With all due respect, payton played in the same system for a dozen yrs or more. he could run that o with his eyes closed. age, rehab, new system, no dominant wr, rb, ol. 9 wins for the lil ponies max
August 12th, 2012 at 1:02 am
repeat…
Hey Jerry &/or Steve!
Get an Al Saunders interview sometime. Some of us would like to hear his views on the changes taking place.
& Im out…stage left even
August 12th, 2012 at 1:05 am
What an amazing turnaround…..I always figured the best job in football was the one nailed down by Kubiak.Played
(figuratively speaking) about 15 years and got grass stains on his uni about twice.No fuking wonder he’s now coaching…..all he ever did was hang out with the coach
with his clipboard close at hand.Good work if you can get it!
Hoping now that I don’t have to eat my words on the QB
situation….WTF I’ve had all kinds of practice on that topic.
August 12th, 2012 at 1:11 am
Word on the street is Ocho’s Wife was getting banged by some other plays lol!!!!!
August 12th, 2012 at 1:11 am
*Playah’s
August 12th, 2012 at 1:17 am
Anyone been to mile low or whatever the hell it’s called nowadays.
After every incomplete pass…the crowd yells at the top
of their voices “In Com Plete”…It’s embarrassing.
August 12th, 2012 at 1:54 am
192.Raider J Says:
August 12th, 2012 at 12:44 am
I hope Tarver and Knapp aren’t in a rush to be NFL head coaches. I’d like to see this staff stay together for a while.
Hey Jerry &/or Steve!
Get an Al Saunders interview sometime. Some of us would like to hear his views on the changes taking place.
He needs a nickname. Grandmaster Al, Sensei Al, Sifu Al… Al wise… Ol’ @ss Al. OG Al
I take credit for “D-Wow” & “V12″ but Im drawing a blank on Mr. Saunders
@@@@@@@@@
Al jr.
August 12th, 2012 at 3:14 am
Everyone have fun at the Raider Nation Day.
As far as the Dallas game,please remember it’s pre-season.The score doesn’t really matter.The important thing is to find out what works and what doesn’t,and who we need and who we can let go.
August 12th, 2012 at 3:17 am
[...] Bay Area News Group exclusive: Gruden Q&A Got a chance to spend some time with Jon Gruden Saturday, his first visit to a Raiders training camp since he last coached the organization in 2001. [...]
August 12th, 2012 at 4:16 am
safety Tyvon Branch with back spasms. He was replaced by Mike Mitchell, who had an interception of a deflected Carson Palmer pass.
Mitchell also got tangled up with tight end Brandon Myers, who left the field with a shoulder injury, then departed with a member of the medical staff for further evavluation.
***
MM34 picks off our franchise QB, which Branch has never done .. then follows by knocking the piss out of our TE ?? Mitchell = starter
no more scholarships !!!
August 12th, 2012 at 4:18 am
Tackle Zach Hurd left with a blow to the head, and Darrius Heyward-Bey with a sore knee.
Allen seemed most concerned about the Myers situation.
***
@ King Darrius
get well soon!!
August 12th, 2012 at 4:28 am
Mitchell said Knapp is on him when he gets anywhere near the quarterback, reminding him it’s hands off.
Such will not be the case against Dallas Monday night.
“They’re going to let the chains off Monday night,’’ Mitchell said.
***
I wonder if Branch will play on Monday (back spasms) ??
if not, would be sweet to see Tony Romo leave on a stretcher. then Mike could blow kisses to Carrie Underwood & Jessica Simpson, saying “I did what you wanted to do, but couldn’t”
August 12th, 2012 at 4:42 am
Backup place kicker Eddy Carmona struck the left upright three times and the right upright once in a span of five kicks, drawing howls from the players on the sideline on the last one.
***
in the 2nd half Monday night, the Raiders should just leave the ball in the hands of Pryor for 4th downs instead of letting this loser kicker try to show off his useless leg. show some balls, Dennis!
TP could use the extra reps anyway!!
August 12th, 2012 at 4:50 am
Rookie wide receiver Duke Calhoun and rookie linebacker Mario Kuhn suffered knee injuries within a few minutes of each other Saturday. The injuries looked pretty serious at the time and, sure enough, Raiders coach Dennis Allen said afterward that they “look to be significant.”
Kuhn and Calhoun required help from two team athletic trainers to get off the ground. Kuhn walked off the field under his own power. Calhoun was taken away in a motorized vehicle.
***
McGee has a hamstring injury, now Calhoun has a knee injury??
undrafted rookie Derek Carrier is inching closer to cracking the 53 man roster!
August 12th, 2012 at 5:05 am
Veteran cornerback Shawntae Spencer made two nice plays Saturday as he continues to rebound from an up-and-down start to camp.
On one play, he shadowed rookie wide receiver Juron Criner on a route into the end zone. Carson Palmer’s pass sailed out of bounds, with Criner allowed no room to make a play for the ball.
Later in practice, Spencer closed on receiver Jacoby Ford and deflected the ball away at the last second after it appeared as if Ford was in position to make a huge play.
***
great news!!
in this league you need 3 or 4 good CB’s.
right now we have Bartell, Spencer & DVD. Hoping Chekwa steps up or he might fall off the depth chart completely. Maybe Pat Lee becomes that 4th guy?
August 12th, 2012 at 5:13 am
“What we’re trying to do with Terrelle is get him better every day in terms of huddle procedure, at the line of scrimmage, and he’s done that,” DeFilippo said. “He’s improved every day, and that’s what we keep preaching with him, improving every day.”
Pryor still struggles with his footwork, by his own admission, as well as his accuracy. Give him time, DeFilippo said. Those are things that come with practice, experience and proper coaching.
“It’s a footwork thing and it’s a maturity thing,” DeFilippo said. “He hasn’t been in this league, so it’s kind of unfair to compare him to Matt and Carson because he hasn’t played as much football or seen as many looks. But the more consistent he gets with his footwork, no doubt, the more accurate he’s going to be.”
***
Terrelle Pryor = Raiders future franchise QB !!
Raiders actually taking the time to DEVELOP players bodes well for them in the future
BigMac = breath of fresh air
August 12th, 2012 at 5:39 am
It looks like, for the first time in years, DA will have his work cut out for him setting the final 53. We may very well have to keep 4 rb’s & 2 fb’s & 4 te’s, which takes up 10 spots where some teams keep 6 or 7 at those spots.
Gonna keep a close eye the TE’s tomorrow as well as LB’s and DB’s.
Can’t wait!
August 12th, 2012 at 5:41 am
First time In years as in there will be some players cut that are actually decent.
August 12th, 2012 at 6:44 am
“Huddle procedure”
LOL
I swear I heard that before……….
August 12th, 2012 at 7:04 am
Raider fans never change. There’s no part-time, no halfhearted Raider fans. The Raider fans that were there with me from ‘98 to 2001 are still around
-Gruden
***
what about MR ??
August 12th, 2012 at 7:07 am
when you look at Darrius Heyward-Bey, Jacoby Ford, Denarius Moore, Taiwan Jones and Darren McFadden, Usain Bolt better watch out because they’ve got some speed here. – Gruden
***
LOL!!
all drafted by Grandpa Davis
August 12th, 2012 at 7:12 am
I can’t tell you how impressed I was with the type of practice Dennis Allen ran. A really sharp, young, energetic coach. I think he’s done a nice job assembling his staff. Coach (Jason) Tarver on defense impressed us, as did Greg Knapp, who has a history of making first downs and moving the ball in this league.
everybody tells you the same thing about Dennis Allen — he’s sharp, he’s a leader, he’s going to do a good job. They’ve just got to continue to build this team. They’ve got to work through some salary cap issues, they’ve got to overcome the lack of draft choices and all those things that have been well-documented, but I think if they stay the course they’ve got the right man.
-Gruden
***
booyah!!
August 12th, 2012 at 7:17 am
Q: You had Terrelle Pryor on one of your quarterback shows. Did you get a chance to see him today and what did you think?
Gruden: I’ve always liked Terrelle. It’s going to be interesting to see if he can translate his game to the style of football he’s being asked to play right now. I saw him as a shotgun, option quarterback at Ohio State that did some dropback passing, but that wasn’t his expertise. He’s got a way to go mastering the NFL style, and being a prototype pocket passing quarterback. And he needs reps. Unfortunately for him, there aren’t as many reps to go around as when I was coaching. There’s only one-a-day practices. They have (Matt) Leinart and they have Carson Palmer, who’s a veteran learning a new offense. He’s kind of caught right now in neutral, I think. He needs an opportunity, hopefully he gets that Monday and we’ll see where is development is.
***
Gruden went thru QB’s like hotcakes in Tampa Bay. Mostly all vets.
Not getting a glowing endorsement from him on Pryor is probably a good thing. Most of those pre-draft QB’s that he basically enshrines in the HOF end up being terrible busts
August 12th, 2012 at 7:21 am
Tony Romo should probably sit the game on Monday out …
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/08/12/cowboys-scrambling-for-center-help-will-work-out-jamaal-jackson/
Seymour, Kelly, Bryant & Bilukidi are gonna wreck the Cowpoke QB’s
August 12th, 2012 at 7:24 am
time 4 church. you guys enjoy your Sunday!!
August 12th, 2012 at 8:05 am
I’m glad we have Palmer. I’m watching replay of Bears pre-sea. game against Denver and JC looks like the same guy he was in Oakland.
JC is what he is. He’s a guy that plays not to lose. That’s not always a negative thing. He did well enough to have a winning record over the last 2 seasons with us, but he never really “goes for it”. He’s afraid of int’s and doesn’t wanna be the guy who loses the game for you.
There’s value to that in the league.
August 12th, 2012 at 8:13 am
Prime example of JC and what he’s all about is he’s got a 3rd and 9. He’s got great protection and he goes thru his progressions (it appears) and then dumps out in the flat to the open guy. Receiver dances a bit then gets bumped out of bounds for a 3 yd. gain and they punt.
Anncr. says JC “takes what the defense gives him”. My thought is if all u do is “take what the D gives u” than u aren’t gonna do much…especially with a good D. Then it’s a case of a defense determining what u will do and not do.
JC plays it safe.
He’s not our guy anymore so who cares I guess right?
August 12th, 2012 at 8:46 am
GreatMorningRaiderBrothering
OneNation
UndaGod
August 12th, 2012 at 8:51 am
Pryor had big accuracy issues at Ohio State. When he played legit D’s like USC, Miami, Iowa, Penn St., and Wisconsin, he was UNDER 50% completions.
Cam Newton meanwhile set NCAA pass efficiency records at Auburn.
Its not close.
August 12th, 2012 at 8:56 am
RR,
Gruden got career-best seasons out of Brad Johnson, Brian Griese, Rich Gannon, and the post -49er Jeff Garcia. He went 8-8 with Donald Hollas here!
QB guru.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:11 am
ESPN is reporting that Zach Miller suffered ANOTHER concussion in last night’s Seachickens game. Al may have dumped him at the right time.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:11 am
We’re a little over an hour away from the debut of Andrew Luck.
Game will be on Nfl “Jet-Work”.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:14 am
Gruden is a QB guru?!
LOL
August 12th, 2012 at 9:20 am
I hope we win monday.. The other afc west teams all won and I really dont wanna hear the tv heads blow a loss out of proportion and start another wave of raider put downs..
August 12th, 2012 at 9:23 am
Since Curry went down to LA to get a “second opinion” it begs the question what was the first opinion? That his career is over?
August 12th, 2012 at 9:26 am
I’d hope since everyone always says the final score on preseason games doesn’t matter that they wouldn’t decide to make an exception for Raider losses.
But.. it wouldn’t shock me.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:28 am
When you coax career-years out of 35-year olds Gannon and Garcia, Brian Griese, Donald Hollas, and Brad Johnson…
when you get better years out of no-names than any other coach has, yes, that is the defenition of a QB guru.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:31 am
231. If we lose it’ll start.. Or get worse really.. They never miss a chance to take a shot at us..
August 12th, 2012 at 9:33 am
And yeah. Im guessing curry has no cartilage in his knee.. He needs batmans knee brace..
August 12th, 2012 at 9:33 am
I always hear out here the 85 Bears went 0-4 and we know what they did, and of course Raiders were 0-4 last preseason, but Allen says he’s playing to win these games so we’ll see.
I do think that some teams need that good feeling of winning to give ‘em a little bit of confidence.
After seeing Hard Knocks Rex Ryan hates to lose those preseason games.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:34 am
U.S.A wins gold, congratulations to the men’s and women’s basketball, women’s gymnastics, especially to Gabby Douglas for all around gymnastics gold.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:36 am
A cowboy fan was telling me that Dallas gets more flak from media than Raiders do…and that they are more hated.
He points to some poll that said dallas is most loved team in league….and most hated.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:38 am
and we all remember winning 4 pre-season games in Art Shell’s coaching year.
Means nada.
Game 3 shows you who you really are.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:38 am
Chaz Schilens hurt in 1st Pre-Season game with Jets
SMH I gues now a s Raider Fans we can say “I told Ya So”
August 12th, 2012 at 9:40 am
Espn is repoting zack millers skull is actually made of a semi tuff paper machet somewhat like a piniata…
August 12th, 2012 at 9:42 am
This just in chaz shillings is actually made of popped corn & elmers glue…
August 12th, 2012 at 9:43 am
Practice in about 10 minutes according to Cork.
I thought they were taking the day off.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:44 am
Raiders should keep Chekwa; remember it took three years for Nnamdi to turn from bust to all-pro.
We’ll need at least five cbs in case one goes down as all have injury history.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:46 am
I think murph went 2 catches for 40 yds.. There was no reason to let him go so early.. Wait till the end of camp.. See how many wrs can still play… We might need another wr…
August 12th, 2012 at 9:48 am
242;
It’s just a walk through practice; no hitting.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:51 am
I think with preseason you have to “try” to win. It’s all part of the mental preperation for a season.
If you are in a competitive event and they are keeping score, it would kind of send the wrong message to your team to tell ‘em “don’t worry bout that”.
I’m sure coaches want the team to be “conditioned” to win.
But…ultimately the games don’t count of course.
August 12th, 2012 at 9:55 am
Alex7 Says:
August 12th, 2012 at 9:28 am
When you coax career-years out of 35-year olds Gannon and Garcia, Brian Griese, Donald Hollas, and Brad Johnson…
when you get better years out of no-names than any other coach has, yes, that is the defenition of a QB guru.
$$$$$$$$$$$
He was s good coach who did well with vet QBs, but he is not a QB guru since he can’t develop QBs.
Tui
Simms
Gradkowski
Btw, did he help King too?
August 12th, 2012 at 9:55 am
It’s just a walk through practice; no hitting.
Thanks, I was hoping to put off yard work for awhile.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:04 am
Btw Alex, in 98 Hollas completed 50% of his passes, had 10 TDs and 16 INTs. 16!
Great job Gruden.
LOL
August 12th, 2012 at 10:19 am
Marks hair Says:
August 12th, 2012 at 9:46 am
I think murph went 2 catches for 40 yds.. There was no reason to let him go so early.. Wait till the end of camp.. See how many wrs can still play… We might another wr…
++++++++=
I felt if he was over his injuries, he should have been kept.
NFL WR with actual game time experience.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:21 am
schallens on the other hand is a diff story.
Was he injuried in the jest game?
August 12th, 2012 at 10:24 am
You guys ever kill a wasp with one of those tennis racketblooking bug zappers?
It borders on disturbing.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:27 am
Yup Schilens Injured his ankle in the Jets Game
August 12th, 2012 at 10:27 am
Raider O
Hollas was 8-8 with Gruden that year. Did you hear from him before or after? Nope.
Brad Johnson – Super Bowl, Pro Bowl.
Rich Gannon – Pro Bowls.
Brian Griese – good stats, playoffs.
Jeff Garcia – good stats, playoffs.
Hollas – best year.
QB guru. By definition, bud. Best years all with Gruden.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:34 am
He did develop Chris Simms.
In 2005, Simms completed 61% of his throws, 10-7 TD to INT ratio, and the Bucs made the playoffs. Simms first full season.
Pretty good for a first full season.
Gruden only had 1 more year after that with TB.
He didn’t have time to develop Tui in Oakland.
Drafted in 2001, Gruden left by 2002.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:34 am
DJ Johnny Says:
August 12th, 2012 at 10:24 am
You guys ever kill a wasp with one of those tennis racketblooking bug zappers?
It borders on disturbing.
_________________
LMAO! some guy came in my work Friday trying to hustle those things. i figured i’d shock myself more with it than an actual bug.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:35 am
GLAZ SHILENS INJURED? no freakin way
August 12th, 2012 at 10:36 am
Hollas was 8-8 with Gruden that year.
$$$$$$$$
No my friend. The raiders were 8-8 with gruden. Hollas completed 50% of his passes and threw 16 INTs with only TDs. He was a liability and not an asset.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:37 am
Only 10 TDs.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:37 am
To be fair, we didn’t let Murhpy go. We traded him, which is different.
With the number of targets already planned for DMac, Moore, DHB, Ford, Reece, Goodson/Jones, and the TEs being featured in our OC’s offense,
Murphy was a luxury when our younger WRs started shining.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:40 am
Garcia and Griese had good stats with the 49ers and broncos. Both if them went to the POs with their teams before they played for Gruden, so you can’t give him credit for that.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:40 am
lol O. I see logic isn’t your thing, so I’ll drop it.
By definition, a QB guru us a guy who gets more out of QBs than other coaches.
Gruden resurrected or got career-highs out of Brad, Gannon, Griese, Simms, and post-49er Garcia.
All of them had other coaches at other times, and didn’t succeed as much as when with Gruden.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:42 am
see how you ignore or can’t read the “post-49er” part of Garcia? Just drop it.
I’m sure ESPN just drew a name out of a hat when they gave Gruden the QB show.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:43 am
XRaided,
I don’t know what brand your guy was selling, but they DO work.
If mosquitos are around (u guys don’t have those out in Cali. do you?) then u wave it around and “zzzzzzzz” the bugs die a horrible death…electrocution style.
But when a big wasp or bee gets into it…..ha… it’s almost disconcerting.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:43 am
Logic?!
LOL
A QB Guru is a guy who can develop QBs. Gruden took vet QBs (already developed), and he made them better (B Johnson and Gannon). He is a good coach, but that doesn’t make him a QB guru.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:45 am
MR,
We know you love Gruden.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:46 am
lucks first pass is a touchdown
August 12th, 2012 at 10:47 am
I liked Gruden. I have absolutely no problem with him except for him searching for a gig while he was still entrenched as Raider HC.
8-8
8-8
12-4
10-6
Pretty good.
He did irritate me with his exuberant, over the top fist pumping at the SB, but i guess what do you expect?…he’s winning the Super Bowl.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:47 am
Reading your entire post is a waste of my time. I already wasted enough time on you today. Have a good day MR.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:50 am
I am not the greatest Gruden guy, but Don Hollas blows azz, so getting 10 and 16 out of him is pretty good in my eyes.
August 12th, 2012 at 10:51 am
Knapp got production out of Jabustus, so he must be a guru too.
LOL
August 12th, 2012 at 10:54 am
I hope Manning doesn’t have a great season or MR is going to start calling Fox a QB guru.
LOL
August 12th, 2012 at 10:56 am
Getting 50%, 10 TDs, and 16 INTs is pretty good?
August 12th, 2012 at 10:57 am
Cork describing Pryors passes as “airmail and lazers”
Sounds like he’s having a good day.
August 12th, 2012 at 11:00 am
Dave Tollefson just asked if I have work to do. Yes, next on my to-do list is telling the big lug to kick rocks. He wants none of this bully
$$$$$$$
Corky is funny.
August 12th, 2012 at 11:00 am
Ironic that it was Jamarcus Russell who led the Raiders to that last game of the season win against Gruden to knock him out of the playoffs…and end his career with Tampa.
August 12th, 2012 at 11:06 am
Andrew Luck’s 1st pass goes for 63 yards and a TD
August 12th, 2012 at 11:08 am
To me Gruden represents a very positive period of time for the Raiders…
When he was here, Raiders were a force.
Hard for me to perceive him in negative light.
August 12th, 2012 at 11:09 am
…except for that small matter of him beating us in the SB.
August 12th, 2012 at 11:12 am
TP is having a great day.
Go Buckeyes!
August 12th, 2012 at 11:13 am
250. Exactly. How many 21-23yr olds do we need? We could have traded him after the 3rd game if we didnt need him..
August 12th, 2012 at 11:15 am
I thought Tollefson and Cochran were friends, now we know they’re related.
August 12th, 2012 at 11:16 am
Luck just threw one away…Still in the game into the 2nd. He follows it up with two nice completions and 3rd down conversion.
He looks pretty good.
August 12th, 2012 at 11:18 am
Colts are luck(y) bastards.
Manning and now Luck.
Luck has 2 TDs.
August 12th, 2012 at 11:18 am
..then Luck throws another TD.
What a debut.
August 12th, 2012 at 11:21 am
Trade prediction:
Raiders trade either Parsons or C. Miller (back up centers) to Dallas after exhibition game.
August 12th, 2012 at 11:31 am
trading Parsons would be disastrous! he’s backing up C and G this year… we need that man!
August 12th, 2012 at 11:34 am
Luck was a pretty easy decision…
August 12th, 2012 at 11:41 am
Luck is beast right now … although it is the RAMRODS
August 12th, 2012 at 11:45 am
Steve Corkran @CorkOnTheNFL
Mario Kurn and Duke Calhoun suffered torn ACLs Saturday. They will need surgery and are out for the season, coach Allen said.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:02 pm
Xraided Says:
August 12th, 2012 at 11:41 am
Luck is beast right now … although it is the RAMRODS
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Team Ramrod?!
LMAO
August 12th, 2012 at 12:09 pm
Raiders For Life Says:
August 12th, 2012 at 11:45 am
Steve Corkran @CorkOnTheNFL
Mario Kurn and Duke Calhoun suffered torn ACLs Saturday. They will need surgery and are out for the season, coach Allen said.
========================================
Crud. Although Kurn was certainly no lock. Check out some of the training camp photos of the LB group. See that small defensive back wearing #47? That’s Kurn.
August 12th, 2012 at 12:13 pm
Oops! I meant #49. Observation still holds.
August 12th, 2012 at 1:04 pm
Team ramrod
August 13th, 2012 at 3:30 pm
Raider Prediction Board
Dedicated to the memory of Al Davis
and Sections 104, 224 and 316.
qodrn: Raiders 100 Dallas 0
DJ Johnny: A bunch of mini Al Davis’s 160-Cowpokes 1
hendu: Just Win,Baby w/zero major injuries
Raidertbone: Raiders – 10 Cowboys – 3 (end of the 1st quarter score; that’s all that matters, anyway)
Plunketthead: Raiders 43 Cowboys
PlunkforHOF: Raiders 24 Bovine Toddlers 9
raidertalk: Raiders 6 Cowboys 3 – first quarter