Burgess keeps it quiet
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Wednesday, September 19th, 2007 at 5:47 pm in Oakland Raiders.
News, notes and obsevations from Wednesday’s conference calls and media sessions heading into Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns:
– Derrick Burgess did not practice with a calf injury, with coach Lane Kiffin offering no details other than he Burgess would be able to play.
Burgess was in the locker room briefly and said it is his policy not to discuss injuries.
For a speed rusher like Burgess, a calf injury, depending on the severity, could mean he sits out a week or two. He simply cannot be reduced in any way in terms of getoff and be effective.
As it is, opponents have been concentrating on Burgess even more than last season. He’s been getting a full dose of double-teams and chip blocks.
If Burgess is out, rookie Jay Richardson is the likely starter at left end, with Chris Clemons and perhaps Tyler Brayton figuring in the mix along with Tommy Kelly.
– Even if Burgess plays, the Raiders will need to pressure Derek Anderson and not allow him the kind of time he got in Cincinnati to locate wide receivers Braylon Edwards and Joe Jurevicius and tight end Kellen Winslow.
A few more blitzes could help, with the most likely candidates Kirk Morrison, Thomas Howard and strong safety Michael Huff.
Heavy blitzing, however, is not a Raiders tradition. It’s a tactic Al Davis dislikes intensely.
“In every defensive coordinator’s perfect world, you have great defensive linemen and you never blitz because they get there by themselves and you drop everybody else,” Kiffin said.
– Richardson, who provided the deflection that led to Thomas Howard’s 44-yard interception return for a touchdown, was a little intimidated by Burgess initially.
“He was real, real quiet at first,” Richardson said. “I was a little nervous around him, like, `This guy never talks.’ He always takes time out whenever I make a mistake or when he thinks he can help put a fine coaching point in there to help me out. He doesn’t talk too much, but when he does, it’s always something meaningful or something helpful.”
– Josh McCown said he won’t play as if he is looking over his shoulder and will rely on his Christian faith to deal with the wrath of Raider fans who voice their displeasure and want Daunte Culpepper as the starter.
“My self worth is not in what another man says about me or what a whole bunch of people say about me or feel about me,” McCown said. “My faith is in something way higher than that. That’s all I can tell you, it doesn’t bother me. If you let it bother you it hurts our team. And that’s the last thing I want to do is go out there and let our fans hurt me and thus hurt our team.”
– I wrote a Web exclusive column on Kiffin’s decision to stick with McCown which is currently posted at Insidebayarea.com.
– JaMarcus Russell was put through a 40-minute practice session Tuesday _ which the NFLPA decrees as the mandatory player’s day off _ along with some practice squad members and young receivers, which ostensibly would include Johnnie Lee Higgins and Mike Williams.
The goal is to get Russell up to speed before he is put on the 53-man roster next week.
– Kirk Morrison, with two interceptions in two games, has been spending time in drills catching passes from all four quarterbacks. He said he has been doing it for the last month to make sure he doesn’t leave any interceptions on the field.
– Cleveland quarterback Derek Anderson played a heck of a game against Cincinnati but didn’t say a single interesting thing on a thankfully short conference call with the media.
– Hamstrings are an issue. LB Robert Thomas, C Jeremy Newberry and FB Oren O’Neal all missed practice with hamstring pulls. RB LaMont Jordan was out with a sore back, which isn’t unusual for him after a heavy workload. CB Duane Starks (groin) participated fully in practice and could be available to be active against Cleveland.
– Here is how Kiffin described his house-cleaning upon arrival in Oakland to the Cleveland media:
“I had to come in and this locker room wasn’t in good shape – that’s no secret. It was extremely dysfunctional. We tried to attack that right on and that meant we had to make some changes. We had to bring in a number of new guys, especially younger guys, guys that would understand and represent our team philosophy and work the way we needed them to work. We’re making some strides.”
— Here’s what Cleveland coach Romeo Crennel said on the differences of preparing for McCown and Culpepper:
“I think the main thing about what (Daunte) did in Minnesota was his ability to throw the ball and be more of a classic pocket passer, whereas McCown, he can run and make plays outside of the pocket and hurt you that way. In preparing, you have to make sure that you contain one guy and be aware for the loose plays, whereas the other guy, you have to make sure that you get back so that he doesn’t throw it over your head.”
– The Raiders did not issue a ticket update Wednesday regarding sales and the possibility of a blackout.
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September 19th, 2007 at 5:57 pm
great post thanks. jordan and that back….
September 19th, 2007 at 6:01 pm
Jerry Mac, you kick ass.
I really appreciate the information and your insight.
Thank-you from a 30 year Raider fan.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
I hope the fan’s do not boo Josh McCown this weekend, no matter what your opinion is ( I want Daunte too.) we need to be behind McCown 100% he is a Raider.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:06 pm
Lamont is always banged up. The Raiders have not been able to count on him. If he gets hurt this year they will be in bad shape on offense. Any word on the Micheal Bush? It would be nice to get him some carries this year.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:07 pm
Great articles Jerry, That article you wrote on mccown couldn’t have been better.
im with you, if mccown doesnt come strong against cleveland, its time. at least give a different excuse than playbook.
hey they fixed the comment box.
Raiders 4 Life
September 19th, 2007 at 6:09 pm
at least we have been in games this year with McCown at the helm. Last year Brooks/Walter was much worse….. we are A better football team.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:16 pm
I TOTALLY AGREE w/ DH…
Jerry Mac kicks ass and is the only portal for info ont he Raiders i’ve found.
I’m 3rd Generation Raider fan and Oakland native, I was born in and will always be in
I think Kiffin is on the right track, this team is a long way fromt he debacle Mr. Shell ran out th
I still think this season holds much promise, reggardless of who’s at QB.
Nation, don’t be too hard on JM, he’s just doing what any Pro does, trying ot keep a job.
Hopefully, we can all relate to that!
I blame this whole mess at QB on Al, he forced a hold out to keep from getting JR ready to play this year, I never saw him handing over the team to a rookie QB, so now we have this.
Let’s Beat the Browns adn go from there!
September 19th, 2007 at 6:16 pm
Shawnraiders81, if the fans do boo JM, no need to be concerned, he’s a 6 year Veteran, not a Rookie, although some of the fans seem to covet him as one. Stop crying a River!
September 19th, 2007 at 6:17 pm
now compare our situation this year, qb wise, versus last year. just waiting for his chance is a qb with stature, poise, pro-bowl exp., and is getting deeper into the playbook every day.
and there on the practice squad is a chosen ‘one’ with some serious young talent on his wings…
and the man calling the plays, has the plan. if defense can make third and long become third and out,
black and silver is back, jack.
and thanks jerry, you are the man, with a blog at your command…
September 19th, 2007 at 6:23 pm
Riddle me this
Monday on NFL.com one of their headlines was Kiffen sticks with McCown. Why is that news?There were 15 other teams that lost, 9 other teams that went 0-2. And nothing about who’s going to start next week for those teams. Its news because NOBODY ELSE agrees with Kiffen that McCoun should start.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:28 pm
Jerry, I am enjoying your articles regarding what is going on. Thanks for the insight. I still would like to see DC and what he could do. I’ll take what LK puts out there on Sunday. I do agree this is a better team to watch. I see the resemblance to USC ball, but with Raider personality. Booing JM, not from this soldier. No-one Booed at me when I came back from Iraq even if they were against the war. So, I can’t be a hypocrite. Fight well Raiders, I’ll cheer and support you through it all.
I”M IN
Soldier Out
September 19th, 2007 at 6:28 pm
Great post Jerry. No BS. If you can, sometime approaching the bye week or a little before a decision must be made on MBush do a little investigating work/prowling to find out was really good there. The Nation would appreciate it for sure. And nice summation of why Ryan often fails to blitz. Its understood but heck if the front 4 aint gettin it done the screw AD. BLITZ GODDAMMIT!
On another point - WTF is JM talking about. His faith has little to nothing to do with being boo’d by the crowd. I hope the crowd cheers more than they boo but his faith doesn’t have much to do with that. On the other hand, his performance has EVERYTHING to do with it. Leave it on the field JM. Put your future in your hands. I just found that kinda funny.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:31 pm
Here is a possibility we have not considered. Kiffin said we would not keep 4 QB’s on the roster. If McCown has another bad game against the Cleveland Browns, is he the one that gets released? Could this 3 game stretch be McCown’s chance to prove whether or not he can get it done. If we go 0-3, then I think its obvious we need to make a change at QB. That has allowed Culpepper enough time to learn our system and be stay healthy. We already have a guy in Walter, like it or not, who has as much experience as McCown in this offense. JR was here before pre-season and has had a good 2 weeks to contentrate on learning everything before becoming our 3rd string QB. Culpepper could start week 4 AGAINST THE MIAMI DOLPHINS. Wouldn’t that be similiar to McCown starting against his former team in the Detroit Lions? We would have a bye week after the game during week 5 and he would also have Dominic Rhodes back during week 6. I have a feeling that McCown will be here a very short time. What do you guys think?
September 19th, 2007 at 6:32 pm
“The possibility existis that the young head coach knows what he is doing.” I can’t believe how fast Kiffin has fallen as far as public opinion is concerned. This summer everyone was “IN”, now its not just the fans bashing him. Being a Raider fan sucks! This Sunday is a no win situation, McClown starts and somehow comes away with a win and Kiffin’s like “I told you so , Josh is our QB.” McClown starts and looses, maybe he gets benched maybe he dosen’t but we are still 0-3 and have just lost to the Cleveland Browns at home.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:36 pm
[...] Richardson, who provided the deflection that led to Thomas Howard’s 44-yard interception return for a touchdown, was a little intimidated by Burgess initially. "He was real, real quiet at first," Richardson said. "I was a little nervous around him, like, `This guy never talks.’ He always takes time out whenver I make a mistake or when he thinks he can help put a fine coaching point in there to help me out. He doesn’t talk too much, but when it does, it’s always something meanintful or something helpful." Inside Bay Area > Inside The Oakland Raiders > Burgess keeps it quiet [...]
September 19th, 2007 at 6:36 pm
Kirk Morrisson & the LB core need to focus more on their coverage skills. They were blowing coverages all game vs Denver.
And Romeo Crennel provides validation to the Nations thoughts on the qb situation. In essence, he basically said if JM is in there you can crowd the line and play it close to contain him - no threat of the deep ball. If DC is in there you better watch you a$$ and play it conservative or get burnt deep. Thanks Romeo - Get that LK? …please get DC in there ASAP
September 19th, 2007 at 6:40 pm
Hey Jerry, you are doing a HELLUVA job man!!! And that’s all the way from Philly talkin’!! Yo, Terrapin, what’s BFABE?? Listen fellow Nation Elite, we get D. Rhodes back in two weeks so if Jordan’s back is not with the plan, his azz will sit!! Good call Huff on the final test for JM. AW (remember him) is under a longer contract and he carries a clipboard nicely so he’ll stick. Raider love to the #1 blog on the web!! Guys it’s tough, but DAMMIT, I’M STILL IN!!!
September 19th, 2007 at 6:42 pm
Huff24 - As much as I don’t like it I think AW is gone. The more I listen and read Kiffins comments the more I think AW is gone. (esp that verbal jab ‘I have a lot of faith in our first 2 qbs’
Wilmac - I think the Nation is still ‘IN’ with Kiffin. They just don’t fully understand his qb delima. The Nation is just not ‘IN’ with JM. LK has done way too much good to ignore. But if he doesn’t begin winning games more and more will defect.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:44 pm
PhillyRaider - I have no idea what that is. Someone called themselves that and I typed a response.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:45 pm
BTW!! In case anybody misinterpreted that last sentence, the tough losses hurt but I WILL ALWAYS BE IN!!!
September 19th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
On sunday when Shanarat called the timeout how come Janochockski inconsistant FGs didn’t work for us. Would it have been great if Janachockski missed the first FG and made the second. I guess people wouldn’t be calling it a brilliant call and Shanarat would’ve been Shanagoat. I guess its just Raiderluck we never get a break.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:48 pm
Terrapin - I definately understand your point but Kiffin hasn’t exactly been the most honest coach ever as you probably have noticed. Kiffin said there was a QB competition and the best would start. If that was the case, Culpepper would have started. Walter also played better than McCown. Kiffin was also playing QB games during the first 2 weeks. I think theres a whole lot more to whats going on then we know. Like Kiffin said, he understands how the fans feel but there are reasons for him starting Josh and he has to go with that. I think Kiffin has just tried really hard to please McCown and Culpepper since they are here on 1 year contracts. He also has to talk highly of them in case any trade proposals come through. Theres more than meets the eye. I see McCown getting the Byron Leftwich treatment.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:50 pm
Terrapin - I tried to Google it and a tons of PORNO crap came up!! Yo, I watched the replay on NFL e manhandled their right tackle on several occasions. The tip was gravy. One BIG mistake though.. he took and inside rush on an outside run in the OT and let the back get a huge gain. Rookie mistake though so I got over it.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:50 pm
Terrapin - Also…I recall Al Davis mentioning that Walter took a beating last year and needs time to settle down. Thats not word for word or anything but I think Davis was concerned for Walter and his mental psyche after last year. Walter is our new Tuiasosopo and I really see him sticking around.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:52 pm
Damn! The textbox cut it off. I was taling about Richardson.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:53 pm
We should attempt to sign Tory James. The guy played pretty good with the Bengals and he was great for us. I think he’d be a pretty good nickel corner for us.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:54 pm
PhillyR - LMFAO !!!!!….tooo funny
September 19th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
I was doing some figuring with the schedule. If our offense could get on track early in the game and the defense play just a bit stronger, we could easily end up 9-7 with our schedule. We’d have to sweep the Chefs though but it could be done.
September 19th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
Where the heck are the team statistics on Raiders.com?
September 19th, 2007 at 6:57 pm
I don’t see how anyone can be overly critical of Kiffin. He has brought competition and pride back to the Raiders. He was given an offense that scored 12 touchdowns last year an opportunity to become a competitive group with minimal talent. All of you Boo birds stay home, Go to the game to support your team, not boo them. Understand what your team is; a team in rebuilding mode, at times they are going to suck, they are going to make mistakes but in time they are going to be very good.
September 19th, 2007 at 7:01 pm
ghost-to-the-post - Love your loyalty man but don’t let it become misguided. True Kiff has made more improvements than I think any of us would have expected this soon BUT if JM has another crappy performance and Kiff makes excuses, then I support ANY Raider fan who is looking to kick him in the azz!!!
September 19th, 2007 at 7:10 pm
‘PhillyRaider’ I am in the Daunte camp as well and I totally support being critical. I just gotta believe that Kffin wants to win as much as or more than any of us because his ass
and job or on the line. So its in his best interest to put the best guy on the field, there has to be something about Daunte that we don’t know. Mr McCown is going to be on a very short leash this week i think.
September 19th, 2007 at 7:14 pm
ghost-to-the-post - I feel ya on the “something about Daunte that we don’t know” thing. I’ve been racking my brains about it since pre-season. But you have to figure he has enough of the offense down by now. Could it be that DC is just slightly smarter than an average moron?!?
September 19th, 2007 at 7:17 pm
Hey where did everyone else go?!? Huff… Terrapin… WTF… ???
September 19th, 2007 at 7:20 pm
WTF, It might also have something to do with the fact he is the 26th rated passer in the NFL, at a SPARKLING 68 rating. Didn’t take him long to butcher that 93 did it?
While Romeo Crennel fears Daunte throwing over his D’s heads, our WR’s fear JM will throw it over, under, left, and right of theirs!
HUFF24…in this article in the Chronicle Nancy Gay says Walter is going to ber released when JR is added to the roster…
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/09/19/SP6JS8JMO.DTL
U have to more mobile than Walter to run Kiff’s/USC offense.
One more agonizing game, and our QB situation should clear up a bit!
The D needs to come out real strong and smack Cleve all game. Tackling must be better, and we must blitz more if the pressure isn’t there early. Hopefully we see Starks and maybe Ward, but it will depend on inactive list.
JUST WIN IN SPITE OF McCOWN BABY!!!!!
September 19th, 2007 at 7:21 pm
And here’s a JM contradiction: “..If you let it bother you it hurts our team. And that’s the last thing I want to do is go out there and let our fans hurt me and thus hurt our team.”
Hello! You hurt the team vs Denver when you told the coach you were good to go, 100%
I’m not buying that line anymore.
Insofar, you have to admit Kiffin or Ryan made a great decision going w/ Jay Richardson over Moses. Moses has yet played a single game while JRichardson has already contributed mightly to the D. However, you can point out that they prob made a mistake in drafting Moses. But thats all hindsight. I bet someone was going to nar far behind us.
September 19th, 2007 at 7:23 pm
Chad E - JUST WIN IN SPITE OF McCOWN BABY!!!!! LMFAO on that!!!
September 19th, 2007 at 7:26 pm
We keep hearing about this mobilty to run Kiff’s offense, hell my mother does sprint rollouts to get a better bingo card!!! ANY of the guys we have at qb right now can handle that aspect of the Lane offense. I need more than that!!
September 19th, 2007 at 7:31 pm
Being a diehard Raider fan I can’t believe that Kiff stubbornly refuses to accept the fact that Mc is not RICH GANNON!!! Besides Rich did’nt become a great season until he was 30 something with the Raiders of course. I will stand by Lane despite all this (yes I want Cul to start as weil) However, Mc isn’t the only one that is’nt playing the position properly. Look at Sapp and Sands who have yet to get a sack or even a tackle for loss, that sorry ass blogger #30 if you don’t know Fabio …er Fabian who at least is playing like he does’nt want to get dirty and that drunk Polish sausage with all that leg but no accuracy unless you say he can hit the left goalpost from 156 ft. away. Kiff go with the players that can play the position the best no projects no friennda or buddies just Committment to Excellence before AD has to remind you of that for he has given you full control so use this privilege wisely, Just Win Baby!!!
September 19th, 2007 at 7:38 pm
Still watchin my taped replay of the game… man I like Griffin!! I’ll be honest, when we picked him up I thought he was a bit small to be a good blocker, but he’s one of those angle guys that blocks a shoulder and turns the defender. He owned Ian Gold in that game!!
September 19th, 2007 at 7:39 pm
This blog is the best. I don’t even read newspaper articles about the Raiders anymore, because they try to sell papers (or page hits) but manufacturing a “storyline” or trying to be controversial, and so much of them are fluff to give background and put things in perspective for casual readers who don’t follow the Raiders.
Jerry just gives the hard, detailed facts and analysis and doesn’t treat his readers like they don’t anything about the team. Keep up the good work.
I also like the insidebayarea article on McClown and the mention of the outrage of the majority of raiders fans, and also how the other iba columnist (soliday?) even refers to him as McClown in his column.
September 19th, 2007 at 7:40 pm
Sorry, Griffith!
September 19th, 2007 at 7:45 pm
Not only is McClown among the worst in the NFL’s passer rating, he is DEAD LAST (ranked 36th among QB’s with 15+ attempts) in the advanced statistical metrics from Football Outsiders (for people not familiar, Football Outsiders is the most respected statistical analysis of football):
http://www.footballoutsiders.com/stats/qb.php
Dead last.
Many people say how much better he’s been over Walter. In fact, the stats show he hasn’t been any better so far:
Walter 2006 Value Over Average (VOA): -38.6%
McCown 2006 VOA: -69.6%
September 19th, 2007 at 7:53 pm
oops, I should have said McCown 2007 VOA: -69.6%, not 2006
September 19th, 2007 at 7:56 pm
Going to the game this weekend got seats about 45 yd line. If I boo McCown it will only be when they introduce him as the starter after that Ill be screamin at the Browns. It will be tough if he has another seven yard half. Seven yards SEVEN.
September 19th, 2007 at 7:58 pm
I didn’t think my dislike of McClown could get any deeper, then I read this:
“Josh McCown said he won’t play as if he is looking over his shoulder and will rely on his Christian faith to deal with the wrath of Raider fans who voice their displeasure and want Daunte Culpepper as the starter.”
McClown: to deal with the wrath of Raiders fans, PLAY WELL YOU DUMB*SS!!! Don’t continue your ultra-sucky play and rely on your imaginary friend up in the sky to make you feel good about it.
I wonder if Brooks dealt with displeasure over his ultra-sucky play by relying on his faith in Zeus or Thor or any of the other gods who have been invented and discarded throughout history.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:01 pm
Now I get it, Jesus made him throw those interceptions. He hates our team
September 19th, 2007 at 8:03 pm
WOW SICKK!! I mean I’m with you that he should just play better and shut us all the fuqq up, but to slam the belief in a God, that’s too harsh dude!! Anyway, I am three hours ahead of you guys and bedtime summons me. Give us some good info tomorrow Jerry!! I’ll see you guys tomorrow.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:06 pm
SICKK,
I dislike McCown as much as the next guy but Sickk GO FU#K YOURSELF you disrespectful worthless piece of dogsh#t!!!
Not only are you in the vast ignorant minority with your jackass beliefs but to feel like a big man you make fu#kwad comments that spit on millions of people.
Do the world a favor and GO FU#KING KILL YOURSELF and find out about the afterlife first hand.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:09 pm
“we need to be behind McCown 100% he is a Raider.”
—————–
that’s not a good enough reason for me. Why should we be behind a terrible quarterback who is ruining the season (yet again)? Using that logic:
We need to be behind Aaron Brooks 100% he is a Raider
We need to be behind Kerry Collins 100% he is a Raider
We need to be behind Donald Hollas 100% he is a Raider
We need to be behind Jay Schoerder 100% he is a Raider
We need to be behind Marc Wilson 100% he is a Raider
No, not me.
I’ll get behind Gannon, Plunkett, Stabler, Lamonica 100% because they proved they DESERVED it.
I’ll will not get behind all this other crap simply because they wear the Silver & Black. You have to EARN my respect, not simply wear a certain colored uniform.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:09 pm
ghost-to-the-post, the Raiders aren’t in a damn rebuilding mode man! Were trying to win games, and compete like everyone else, and there is no reason we can’t. You think were the only 0-2 team right now? The Raiders record does not reflect the team, and all the NFL knows that! Of course I didn’t expect the Raiders to go 16-0, but I expected them to win a lot of games. Rebuilding my Ass!
September 19th, 2007 at 8:10 pm
SICKK did you have to go that far dude? I mean yea McCown has to play better and if he wants to believe God will help him than thats cool, thats his belief but come on dont knock the man for that, knock him for how bad he is playing not what he believes.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:10 pm
EASY. EVERYONE JUST CHILL. FOCUS ON THE RAIDERS, NOT RELIGION.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:10 pm
PhillyRaider…I work Bingo as a caller once a month for at my Daughter’s catholic High School…those ladies are RUTHLESS…LOL!
Seriously, though, as much as I liked Walter at first, his mobility is a MAJOR issue. He is way less mobile than McClown, DC, and JR. He is just slightly more mobile than Al’s bust in Canton. Love the kid but he is gonna have to find a team with a GREAT OL, and try to become a Brady like passer who slides in the pocket to buy time. If the stories are true, and he is released, it is obviously because Kiff doesn’t think he can run his O correctly.
D is the KEY this Sunday!
JUST WIN IN SPITE OF McCOWN BABY!!!
September 19th, 2007 at 8:11 pm
Unless of course it’s Raider religion (IE in Lane we trust or In Al we trust) Otherwise, give it a rest.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:15 pm
“Sickk GO FU#K YOURSELF you disrespectful worthless piece of dogsh#t!!!”
“Do the world a favor and GO FU#KING KILL YOURSELF and find out about the afterlife first hand.”
———–
I love freedom of speach. Knock yourself out wishing my death.
My faith in the Flying Spaghetti Monster will get me through it
September 19th, 2007 at 8:16 pm
Dammit, You guys are gonna make me late for work!! Hey Chad I”VE been roughed up by some of those old chicks! I still think if we do carry 3 qbs (and some teams only carry two) then AW will stick because of his contract and familiarity with our system.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:16 pm
Sick
I agree with you our qb’s got to earn it, I also believe the coach has to as well.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:17 pm
Flying Spaghetti Monster. Hmm. Think I’m going to Google it.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:18 pm
SICKK your too much man. This aint even about the Raiders any more, lets keep focus on the Raiders ok.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:20 pm
Amazing, go to http://www.venganza.org/ for info on the flying spaghetti monster
September 19th, 2007 at 8:21 pm
September 19th, 2007 at 8:23 pm
SICKK - I know we’re off track here for a minute but dude did you make that up?!? Good lokkin LooneyRaider that website is fuqqin unbelievable… McClown you better perform or your azz will be watchin the 5th game on somebody’s couch!!
September 19th, 2007 at 8:25 pm
Now back to the Raiders, I have so much faith (oops, there’s the religious tone) in Lane Kiffin, that I will be starting McC(L)own on my fantacy football team. Don’t let me down Kiff, and Jeff.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:27 pm
# RF Says:
September 19th, 2007 at 8:18 pm
SICKK your too much man. This aint even about the Raiders any more, lets keep focus on the Raiders ok.
—————–
will do.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:29 pm
OK, seriously guys I love every fuqqin one a ya!! But if I don’t get to sleep my boss, aka Mr. Slate will have a baby!! I’ll blog ya all tomorrow!
September 19th, 2007 at 8:33 pm
So does anybody think we have a real shot at beating the Browns, and i mean a realistic score too. They just came off of a win against the Bengals so they must be fired up.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:40 pm
I think so. Remember, the Raiders just tasted momentarily a victory in Denver. I don’t think they want to experience that again. Furthermore, I don’t think that the browns compare with the Donkos. ( I’m not the only one. See power rankings at http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/powerrankings and expert picks at http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/features/writers/expert/picks) Even though they scored a lot, they also gave up a lot. The Donks have a pretty good defense.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:46 pm
McCown, Culpepper, Walter, or Russell. Those are our options. It’s not like it’s Montana, Stabler, Elway, or Aikman or it’s not like it’s Hostetler, Evans, or Wilson (Wade or Marc)…. Thus, the pickings are slim.
Two games would not be a trend but three games would be. That being said, McCown needs to show significant progress or Kiffin should go to the next QB. It’s not like McCown is the QB of the future, just the near future. I’m glad Kiffin is sticking with McCown because it would send a poor message to the remaining QB’s that one half or game and you sit. Chemistry is built through teammates being on the field and that can’t occur if there is a shuffling of QB’s. This isn’t fantasy football where you can play a different QB each week. The future is Russell, but the near future is McCown and after that most likely Culpepper.
Like I started this blog: Our options are limited, slim, to MCCown, Culpepper, Walter or Russell.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:49 pm
Let me preface all this by saying I want to see DC starting at this point as well, but please understand that the 68 passer rating and the 5 picks and 7 sacks is not *all* JM’s fault. I know everyone likes Simms work ethic but check out how fast people get around him on some crucial plays. It is not even about the tips and sacks but what about hurries and knockdowns. Green on the other side is not much better. You tape watchers or people who at least watch repeats of the game I know they often do not isolate on the lineman but anytime they do I keep seeing Simms suck in pass protection. My son is a high school lineman and I am trying to understand what is a good performance and when it was the tackle’s vs. a halfback or TE’s fault but I think Simms and Green are the absolute worst in the NFL right now. Please some line expert tell me another teams tackles are worse in pass protection. Maybe Atlanta? I do not know. I know the run blocking is better but I think the pass blocking is actually worse than last year on the edges and the rush up the middle was worse than average last year against Detriot after Newbury came out. With Tackles like this McCown better pray a lot because one badly missed assignment could result in a really hard hammering hit.
I do think we have a shot at beating the Browns and we may rush for 250 yards because Kiffen does not want to expose any of our QBs to the onslaught.
September 19th, 2007 at 8:56 pm
Today is “talk like a pirate” day. I don’t know what is more weird that, or the flying spaghetti monster religon. Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrghhhhhhhh, I’M IN MATEYS!
September 19th, 2007 at 9:00 pm
As Sickk says:
We need to be behind Aaron Brooks 100% he is a Raider
We need to be behind Kerry Collins 100% he is a Raider
We need to be behind Donald Hollas 100% he is a Raider
We need to be behind Jay Schoerder 100% he is a Raider
We need to be behind Marc Wilson 100% he is a Raider
I’m ready for a coach to stand up and do what’s best for the nation. Put pride and stupid thinking aside. You made a mistake. Ok, we forgive you. Put in DC. And if that doesn’t work, put in Ja Marcus, and go for the future and get him ready.
As for my comments on placing JM on my fantasy team, I have had 4 glasses of wine, and it’s starting to talk for me. Love you Kiff. Do the right thing. Earn our respect.
September 19th, 2007 at 9:00 pm
Damn 1960, “I do THINK we have a shot at beating the Browns…….”. Has it really come to this allready. Hoping we can beat the Browns at home?! WTF we should be 2-0 and beating our chest right now!
September 19th, 2007 at 9:00 pm
wilmac did you not know Kraken is the Spaghetti monster!
Seriously, in looking at the Raiders the two areas that seemed to have regressed from last year are the pass rush and pass protection blocking. The running game, special teams, linebacker play and I even think coverage (now that teams have to throw on us) are the same or better. By the way I think QB play is way better even with all the McCown bashing ARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRghhhhhhhhhhh
September 19th, 2007 at 9:00 pm
Raiders are favored by 3.
Cleveland has the better skilled players on offense, especially at quarterback.
I think the Raiders are gaining confidence, but no blitzing, Seabass, and McCown are killing us. Without those three things we are 2-0.
September 19th, 2007 at 9:03 pm
“I do THINK we have a shot at beating the Browns…….”
I know this is sad but with turnstiles at the tackles for us anything can happen for them including bouncing balls on the infield…
September 19th, 2007 at 9:05 pm
Kirk
What? Derek Anderson is better than JM or DC - give me a break! I am a OSU fan but DA is not as good as eighter even though he lit up the Arena secondary that Cincinatti put on the field last week.
September 19th, 2007 at 9:08 pm
Guys this Spaghetti Monster theory suggests that hurricanes, earthquakes, and tsunami’s are a direct effect of the declining # of pirates! Fuc*ing PIRATES? LMFAO, this makes me feel better about having the second coming of Napolean as our head coach. That is some funny stuff.
September 19th, 2007 at 9:12 pm
1960, I didn’t say Anderson was better than Culpepper.
I said he’s better than McCown. I watched the Cleveland game last week, and
Anderson looked very good. He was zipping the ball, and their offense looked
better than ours has looked so far.
September 19th, 2007 at 9:18 pm
Cincinatti’s “defense” might be the worst defense in the league. So I can’t give Cleveland that much credit. And Derek Anderson sux, every dog has it’s day, the sun shines on a dogs ass every once in a while, ect.. He probably had more TD’s last Sunday than he did all last year .
September 19th, 2007 at 9:18 pm
McCown should say that he does care what the fans want, and he will try his best to make them happy by playing better.
SICKK, you seemed drawn to McCown’s vocalization of his faith like a moth to a flame. It’s natural that one with your perspective would be. Consider this: if you have faith in evolution, what does man evolve to?
September 19th, 2007 at 9:27 pm
1960AW….No, all the fault for JM’s troubles don’t lay at his feet, but the bulk of them do. Trends are trends and his overall QB stats from before this season are playing out. He throws more picks than TD’s, his per pass yardage is low. Sometimes stats don’t lie.
Again Kiffin’s quote from his Monday presser….
“Sure, just like you manage the game as a head coach and then as a play caller you have to manage your players and there is no player more important than the quarterback.” Lane Kiffin
Nuff said, that’s why McCown is on a short leash, Kiff knows he is walking a fine line with the most important pos on the field.
September 19th, 2007 at 9:29 pm
The Raiders can’t beat the Browns. We are not a good enough team to overcome the 2.5 INT’s and 2.5 fumbles per game McCown averages. Very few teams are good enough to overcome that. Browns 28 Raiders 10
September 19th, 2007 at 9:35 pm
The two players with huge spotlights on them this week (other than McClown (even Nancy Gay at SFgate is calling him that)) will be Nnamdi and Huff.
Nnamdi has to shut down Braylon Edwards.
Huff needs to shut down Kellen Winslow Jr.
Derek Anderson is a well below average QB. If Nnamdi and Huff do their jobs, there’s no reason the Browns should win this game.
With luck, we’ll knock Anderson out of there and give Brady Quinn a debut he’ll never forget and never want to remember.
September 19th, 2007 at 9:39 pm
Why? Glass half full?
If only Jano could make two fieldgoals in a row, the Raiders could. If only McC(L)own could make one more completion to Porter, the Raiders could.
They are making positive steps in the right direction. The Raiders will come together and keep making positive strides. Instant gradification rarely happens, though we all want it and perhaps need it. The Raiders are a better team this year. This years team isn’t spelled te(I)m. It’s spelled “I’m In”.
September 19th, 2007 at 9:42 pm
WHERE IS BJ WARD……………….. STU NEEDS TO GO
September 19th, 2007 at 9:44 pm
Hey LooneyRaider, I’m guessing your wine glass isn’t “half full”. Just kiddin bro, couldn’t resist that one.
September 19th, 2007 at 9:46 pm
SICKK, if you have faith in evolution, what does man evolve to?
——-
that would all depend on what the Flying Spaghetti Monster chooses to do with His noodly appendage. Yarrrr
September 19th, 2007 at 9:50 pm
WIN, that is it for Sunday, back the players and WIN!!!
September 19th, 2007 at 10:18 pm
Isn’t it bliss?
Don’t you approve?
… Where is McClown?
Send in McClown.
Send in McClown.
Yes, where is McClown?
Quick, send in McClown.
Don’t bother, he’s here.
Where is McClown?
There ought to be McClowns.
Well, maybe next year.
September 19th, 2007 at 10:24 pm
Im tired of this sh!t!! If McCown doesn’t show any improvement by half time vs the Browns , I say bench his ass for C-Pep!! Im in with Kiffen, but he’s fk’ing up!!! He said himself that the QB play vs the Broncos was embarrassing!! WEll then do something about it DAMMIT!! The irony here is that………if C-Pep was the starter and Fk’ing up the way McCown is F’ing up right now…………I would say bench Culpepper!! And put in McCown!! This whole thing is pathetic!!! Here we were, thinking we had something with this team…….IT ALL WENT TO HELL WITH MCCLOWN!!
September 19th, 2007 at 10:39 pm
Jerry,
Dunno if you have either the time or the inclination to read this far down.
On McCown being done if he plays as well against the Browns as he did in weeks one and two, all I can say is, from your fingers to God’s eyes.
I fully accept that there are things that Kiffin can see that I can’t. He designed the O, so he knows better than anyone how well its being executed. He has access to game tape that we don’t, and he sees all the practices we don’t.
What I have seen, though, is a passing game that looks like what the Raiders ran that got blown up in SB XXXVII, and McCown is no Gannon. I have seen checking down well short of the marker on third down. I have seen a checkdown to a run against an 8 man front with single coverage on 3 WRs (and I heard Kiffin say he would ruhn an attacking offense, so….). I have seen 7 sacks, 5 picks, two fumbles, after having heard Kiffin stress the importance of protecting the ball and not taking sacks.
Most of all, I see a team that is 0-2. While that is certainly not all on the QB (hey, the Bears won 14 games and made the SB Last year), the rather obvious differences between the capbilities and approaches of McCown and Culpepper (and Walter) suggest strongly that the best tonic for what ails the passing game is a QB who can throw down the field. I have more confidence in Culpepper and Walter to lead this team than I do McCown. I have felt that way definitively since week three of the exhibition season.
September 19th, 2007 at 10:42 pm
mccown should have a breakout game here. their secondary isnt much. just hope he throws it decently. where is BJ Ward and our TEs?
September 19th, 2007 at 10:52 pm
Prediction:
JM has another Josh day 1/2 between Detroit and Denver.
Too many sacks / interceptions.
Raider D steps up,
Raiders Win.
Kiffin switches QB to Daunte for Miami.
Ja$ gets activated. Josh is cut, by Kiffin, because he had his chance, Ja$ is ready to be 3rd QB and Walter is cheap$ for 2nd/3rd string QB next year, and no one is offering a good draft pick for him this year.
September 19th, 2007 at 11:06 pm
Hmmm…. So Kiffin can see thangs nobody else can see. So can the crack addict living out of a cardboard box.
Real simple from my point of view. Kiffin’s teacher’s pet QB sucks. The decision to start the teacher’s pet is Kiffin’s. Whence, Kiffin sucks.
Apparently Kiffin can’t see that.
PS… Lose the visor Kiffin, you make Gruden look like an idiot.
September 19th, 2007 at 11:19 pm
I hear ya Dan Birdwell, RIP.
September 20th, 2007 at 12:13 am
RIP Dan Birdwell - you’ve got it exactly right.
Kiffin can certainly see things we can’t. All we fans can see see is the results on game day.
And on game day we see a QB without a legitimate down field threat. Until that gets fixed, the O is going to sputter, no matter how well it is “managed.”
Still, I’m in.
September 20th, 2007 at 12:25 am
DH> if you want proof of Dawin’s theory of Evolution, just check out Sam Adams
September 20th, 2007 at 1:31 am
You know Jerry, I see that a lot of bloggers thank you for the great job you are doing on this website. Well, it’s time for me to toss my two cents in. Let me start by saying that as Raider fans in the Bay Area we get absolutely no respect from the local media. That includes the Ang Newspaper Group. Our own Newspaper seems to think that east bay subscribers want to read more about (and see more photos of) the team across the bay than about our Raiders. The Radio station “The Ticket 1050″ used to broadcast the Raider games during the afternoon, and on Game day. J.T. the Brick hosted this show. Raider fans would call one after the other taunting the cross bay rivals. We had some great, knowledgeable fans, from both sides of the bay, calling the radio station and delivering some really interesting smack offs. It was one of our most awesome times in Raider history. But then for some reason, the Raiders switched to 560 KSFO- a right wing conservative radio station that only broadcast Raider anything on game day (which broadcast with about 20 watts of power). If you hold your transistor radio at just the right angle you can here the Raider games. For three hours before the game and about 1 hour after the game, Raider fans are able to listen to Greg Papa, George, Hummer etc. talk Raiders. When the Raiders left 1050, the very weak and boring KNBR 680 “The Sports Leader” became a misnomer. The Ticket 1050 was drawing all the attention away from KNBR 680. When the Raiders moved to 560, all them boring, loser broadcasters (Gary “the hook” Radnich, “sassy” Tom Tolbert, Ralph “squeaky” Barbiri) came in and filled the void left behind at 1050. Obviously hoping that the Raider fan base would stay with their station. But what has happened is that you have these guys talking to themselves for most of the show. The show is dead because they the lack passion afforded by the Raider fans. Raider fans preferred to listen to nothing at all than to listen to these S.F. 49er, (Raider-haten) homers squeal on the Radio. Since 560 does not take any fan calls before or during the game, and only field a few phone calls after the game, we Raider fans were trapped in our home without a way to vent. We were out in the cold without a jacket. It was like our collective mouths were strapped with duct tape and we were suffocating. We had no way to express ourselves. But then this blog came into existence. This blog is a literal lifeline to every passionate Raider fan with an opinion. You do not know how much it means to us, and how grateful we are, that you fill our goblets with a daily dose of Raider knowledge, and then allow us to air our thoughts regarding that knowledge – or anything that is on our mind. So Jerry, thanks for your excellent Raider coverage.
I have another prediction to make: By the end of the year you are going to see over one thousand responses to your articles. Remember last year, I don’t think any article had over 30 blogs. Yesterday’s article had over 300 blogs! There are a lot of desperate Raider fans out there that do not know this website exists. I tell my relatives, patients, friends and foes about this website. I encourage any Raider fan that reads this blog to do the same.
So thanks again, and keep up the good work. Wishing you prosperity in the future.
September 20th, 2007 at 1:34 am
blitz, what the hell are you doing up so late???? I appreciate your posts, and Jerry does a great job. I love his work for Lindy’s., I don’t know if you know about it, but Jerry we do appreciate it, believe me, we do. blitz shouldn’t you be catching some zzzz’s???
September 20th, 2007 at 2:29 am
Damn! By the time I read all this there is nobody left to talk to!
September 20th, 2007 at 2:43 am
Ok! I will close it out like on Tv when the broad cast day ends! You hear the National Anthem and this pledge.
The Raider Pledge of Allegiance
I Pledge Allegiance to the Raider flag of Oakland, California
and to the Team for which it stands,
one Raider Nation under Kiffin,
invincible, with AFC Championships and Super Bowl Rings for all.
I expect to hear this on TV Sunday. I also want to tell all of you that you are all great fans even though you all don’t always see eye to eye. It’s kinda like a sibling rivalry. We are truly a Raider family and definitely the most passionate fans in the league. Jerry keep up the good work and may the Spaghetti Monster bless all of you.
Been in since 1969!
September 20th, 2007 at 4:50 am
Thats funny!!! We lost by a field goal. What did the Chargers lose by?
September 20th, 2007 at 6:00 am
Someone above brought up Football Outsider’s rankings. Here is Culpepper’s evaluation from their Football Prospectus 2007 publication (p. 302-03) -
“Culpepper’s health was repeatedly questioned throughout the 2006 preseason, but when the season started, he was under center. After four mediocre games, a cascade caused his shoulder to start stiffening up in practice. He never saw the field again, undergoing athroscopic surgery on his knee in November and going on injured reserve shortly thereafter. No one’s really sure whether he’s actually made a throw since 2005 that hasn’t caused him pain. Three years removed from his brilliant 2004 season, and in the middle of a Trent Green/John Beck squeeze, Culpepper may never get a chance to show that he’s not the same quarterback he once was.”
Projected stats - for Miami -
532 att, 332 comp, 3533 yds, 12 TD, 20 Int
By popular demand, a nation of fans is screaming for him to get that chance. Even the writers. Should be easy for him to succeed if God drops everything else or if the Flying Spaghetti Monster injects him with some of the magic sauce. We should keep four QBs actually. I truly think he’ll get injured, which happens when teams struggle. We’re in transition again, so let’s play ‘em all and see who doesn’t get killed. In 2003 we used five. Based upon his comments regarding faith in something bigger, McCown knows he’s a goner because I’ve heard athletes talk like that before. We’re gonna go downfield, and someone else above said our pass blocking is weaker? Poor Duante.
I hate this witch hunt crap, but if turns you on, go for it. The levee has done broke. I’m a little upset at you for egging these guys on, Jerry, but I recognize that this stuff can run away.
September 20th, 2007 at 6:11 am
Here’s some more about our new deep threat, from the same book. In 2006 -
53% of pass attempts short
29% medium
11% deep
7% bomb
134 pass attempts, heavily slanted toward dink and dunk, with 21 sacks, for a team that was better at protection than Oakland. Madness!!!
September 20th, 2007 at 6:12 am
Did anyone see the POINT AFTER show on the NFL net. They had L. “crybaby T. on and sure shit he has tear marks on his face!!!!! LOL!! He’s all teary eyed because they got their asses handed to them. Note to Chocker fans get us to lossing its the NORV TURNER WAY. HA HA HA cry baby!!!!!!!!! ha ha ha I just cant stop laughing YOU GUYS HAVE TO CHECK THAT OUT. HAHAHA!!!
September 20th, 2007 at 6:20 am
Was Opening Day the 21st century allegory for feeding Christians to the Lions at the Coliseum? I wanna know when lunch is.
September 20th, 2007 at 6:28 am
Damn our defense must be simple to understand with all the playing time Warren is getting. I wonder if Warren can give a few tips to Daunte on how to comprehend our amazing Offense better so that Lame Kiffin can see past his nose. Maybe I can tutor Daunte or maybe he can stay after class so that he can understand better how and when he should call an audible at the line of scrimmage! Hey, maybe McCowen can help tutor him after practice? You can’t be serious Lane saying that McCowen gives us the best chance to win simply because he knows the offense better! If thats the case, LET DAUNTE COME UP WITH HIS OWN OFFENSE!!!!
September 20th, 2007 at 6:36 am
Let’s watch how many games Burgess takes off because he is hurting with injuries no one can detail. Its beginning to look like a contract issue with Burgess. Kiffin is quiet about it because he can’t prove its a contract problem, but I would bet off the record you will get a different opinion about Burgess injury. He doesn’t want to get hurt, so why play. Next year he works
on a new contract. Richardson better get ready for a lot of playing time. Its coming. Al paying these guys big money and then they dog it on him. Its all about the money, nothing else.
September 20th, 2007 at 6:44 am
spaceballs, lmao! hey r8rdad, have u seen or read what goes on in a dolt blog….(cricket, cricket) they get a comment a day, lmao!
September 20th, 2007 at 6:55 am
How is Jesus’s arm?
Maybe he can help Joshie throw the ball more than 10 yards downfield.
September 20th, 2007 at 6:56 am
Jerry, you are DA’MAN!!
You are the only place to go to for a Raidahs fan to find out what is going on and to find an educated opinion.
Glad to hear Coach Kiff sound like McC’s time is getting shorter. This speaks for itself: “So far, he’s given McCown 22 possessions (not including two clock-killers at the end of halves) and the results have included five interceptions, a lost fumble and seven sacks”. 13 out of 22 are turnovers or sacks!
Pulling a QB after that type of performance would not qualify a coach as Captain Hook!
Raidahs need to Just Win Baby!!!!!!
East Coast Silver and Black
September 20th, 2007 at 7:04 am
ya know keep using his name (Jesus) in your little, not even funny comments, as your gonna find yourself in an weird place my friend.
September 20th, 2007 at 7:10 am
Is anyone else ready to see jamarcus thrown in there? i don’t care how much he doesn’t know
September 20th, 2007 at 7:12 am
Hey Charger,how is philips arm? You know what,it doesn’t really matter because the song remains the same for your San Diego Retrievers. There’s no Super Bowls in your domain.Especially when L.T.decides to get the hell out of there just like J.Seau did.
September 20th, 2007 at 7:13 am
and how is michael bush coming along jerry
September 20th, 2007 at 7:14 am
I am the first to say it, and will repeat it here. The decision to start mccown over culpepper is race based.
September 20th, 2007 at 7:15 am
i hear that. do what they did with, young, leinart, and cutler. they all panned out fairly well in their first year. JR should be given a shot after the bye week….after we have a couple of wins.
September 20th, 2007 at 7:19 am
the only way to learn how to swim is to get thrown in the deep end of the pool AND
get the f#ck out of here with that sh!t crudd. u just wanna brew something up this morning.
September 20th, 2007 at 7:20 am
The last type of unusual loyalty that we saw between a Raiders Head Coach and an associate was Art Shell with his O.C. Tom “Broke Back” Walsh. Lane Kiffin needs to ask himself: will he make McClown his Tom Walsh? If he does, they will both be looking for work sooner than later.
Boy wonder thinks he is so smart, but just off the top of my head I have eight questions that he can not answer. Questions about better, much more experienced Coaches than he is Up to this point:
1) What cost future Hall-of-Famer Mike Shanahan his job as a Raiders Head Coach?
2) What cost Art Shell his job in his first tenure and
3) in his second tenure?
4)What cost Mike White his job?
5)What cost Joe Bugle his job?
6)Why did John Gruden and Al Davis part ways?
7)What cost Bill Callahan his job?
8)What cost Norv Turner his job?
Since these names span over just the last 17 years, even young Lane should be able to answer these questions. But I know he cannot, because he is counting on Josh McCown and Sebastian Janokowski to save what will ultimately be his job under Al Davis.
And one more question, Coach. Do you really think that the RN will continue to buy tickets to watch yet another season ending in September? The RN is on the ropes and, in the face of a fifth straight year of talking about “maybe next year”, the empty green seats will speak loudly about what we think of this B.S. And what we are thinking is: “This is an unacceptable outrage
September 20th, 2007 at 7:21 am
Watched the replay last night, almost all in slow motion, im driving my wife nuts! Few observations:
O-line run blocking was terrific. Cut blocks opening truck size holes, jordan seems to be adapting well to choosing his lane and driving through it. Fargas doesnt seem to fit this system, poor vision and runs too upright. For such a big back he also doesnt break many tackles.
o-line pass protection was avg. sims gets burnt by the speedsters and green will let someone by once a drive or so. Gallery and carlilse looked very good.
McCown…sigh obviously looked terrible. bad decisions, weak arm and worst of all very innacurate. Ill just stop there.
D-line did not look good, were driven back, poor penetration and other than burges did not put much pressure on QB. Saap was non-exixtent as was sands. This to me was the weakest part of our team last sunday.
Secondary: coverage was overall good. Nnamdi was almost flawless, washington despite allowing some catches has great recovery speed and was there with receivers but struggled to get in position for the ball against much bigger receivers who simply blocked him with their bodies. Routt was aggresive, took many chances and got caught. Gets lost in the middle and looks like a backup outside corner at best at this point. Huff played real well, always in position to make a play and rushed to the ball without hesitation. Stu did his job as FS in that he didnt get played out of position and covered the deep threat but wow terrible tackling game. He really had a hard time with the smaller quick back. Weak link in secondary but servicable.
September 20th, 2007 at 7:22 am
Starting quarterback Josh McCown is making a base salary of $2 million this season, his sixth. Culpepper is earning $3.2 million this season, his ninth. Russell is being paid a base salary of $3.16 million in the first year of a six-year contract he signed eight days ago.
WOW! one is getting paid to lose, the one getting paid more than the starter is a backup and the one the makes the most of the two is not even in uniform and when he does suit up, will be carrying a clipboard.
September 20th, 2007 at 7:27 am
I am more confident over this win than any week this yr so far. I think anderson is reckless and will pay for his over-confidence. I think McCown will do much better against this D although i am slightly concerned with our ability to run and stop the run against this team. We should win by more than a TD. I also expect higgins to add a big play with more opportunities to run a few back.
But we NEED to get more pressure on QB! On 3rd downs last week we sent in just 3 much too often, they went nowhere. We need to blitz much more. We must be one of the last teams in this catagory. Its really hurting our secondary.
September 20th, 2007 at 7:29 am
If anyone read JMac’s article “Josh or not to Josh” we have to hope that Kiffin is just sticking with his overall master plan. Maybe he planned to play McCown until the team was ready enough in this offense to protect CPep and having CPep not just be familiar with the offense but ready to master all the nuances that come with running the show. This would give CPep the best chance to succeed and also the team. Maybe he thought McCown would perform better and be able to win at least 2 of the first four games, but is now seeing that McCown is a much better practice player then he is when the lights come on. I’ve read this several times about McCown from various sources. So know Kif finds himself in a position where he might have to put CPep in a bit earlier then planned because of McCown’s shortcomings, but is giving him one last chance against Cleveland.
Both Kif and Al Davis said they did not want to rush an unprepared or not quite healthy Culpepper into the fray, so maybe they were just buying as much time as they could. I hope they realize that time is now. A win against Clev is a must and hopefully Kif is ready to pull the plug on the McCown project when needed.
Just a thought that could explain what seems like madness to the masses. I’m all for getting CPep in, but right now I’m giving Kif the benefit of the doubt. That is unless we lose to Clev on another embarassing pass performance.
September 20th, 2007 at 7:38 am
Please get off the race card. I am a minority and find it so insulting that others use it as a crutch or reason to get something they didnt earn. I dont think Kiffin gives a rats ass what the color of his qb is. If you didnt notice JR is black.
Its two games people, (one of which you can argue he played reasonably well) give it a rest. Its not enough to form a trend in this system. I too want to see pepper in there but trust that kiffin has just a tad more insight than us.
This is a new system kiffin is trying to implement. Having stability while doing so is very important. One awful game is not enough reason to change course, especially when there are concerns about the next leader/master of the offense not having a full grasp of it! Why isnt anyone on pepper’s case to learn it quicker?? I think the job has been his for the taking.
I think McCown will be much improved this week, if not i expect pepper to start after the break.
September 20th, 2007 at 7:49 am
Yes, Mark Finzel, we can all tweak those stats to suit our needs. The problem is when the rubber meets the road, the QB’s gotta perform.
Where there is smoke, there is usually fire. The Raiders O-line this year is a HUGE improvement over last year. The biggest reason is the improved running game. What is the running game supposed to do? Open up the play action and the passing game. Even with all the success in the running game against Denver, McClown demonstrated early he was again off the mark. Kiffin alluded to this in his presser, saying you don’t keep doing something just to prove a point…The message, “Josh was stinking up the joint, we didn’t want him to lose the game by throwing another INT, possibly for a TD the other way”.
What Kiffin is not saying right now is his “attacking, aggressive offense is being extinguished by his QB’s inability to capitalize on big plays”. When U can’t take advantage of the kind of running game we put out there Sunday you cripple the ability to score lots of points.
Kiffin has reached his breaking point with JM, it won’t last much longer. Daunte can run this offense, Kiffin is putting the pressure on him to be totally prepared. Remember, DC wants to show he can still cut it, and get a big $ deal somewhere at the end of this year. DC ain’t sticking around for no schoolin’ of JR, his is 30 yrs old and needs that last big deal to set himself up for retirement.
Anyone who thinks Kiff doesn’t worry about winning this year is CRAZY! I don’t believe he every thought JM would end up keeping this job. I loved reading about JR’s “40 minute workout” on the mandatory NFLPA day off Tuesday. Kiff has a plan for JR too.
I see this as JM’s last week, then onto DC. If we start winning and go on a run, then JR will play in spots, blowouts etc. rest of year. If we get to the no playoffs scenario, JR will start the rest of the way.
Kiffin wants to prove how good his O system is, and believe me, JM is killing it, and Kiff knows it.
Don’t blame our O-line, and don’t bring those weak stats….
The only stat that matters is W’s and L’s……
JUST WIN IN SPITE OF McCOWN BABY!!!!!
September 20th, 2007 at 7:50 am
I love when shawne (thumb up his @$$) (where’s my roids) merriman comes on here. Check your brain cells. Go worship your needle.
I wear my colors proudly. Silver and Black for PT and Silver and Black when I fly the, yeah that’s right, a BLACKhawk.
Thanks for giving us all some distraction from arguing about the QB.
There are other parts of the O that need to be addressed but I believe in this USC proven way of playing the game. When everybody gets it together and DC and JR start taking snaps we’ll all be writing about other things we see.
Jerry- keep it comin’ -
I’M IN
Soldier out
September 20th, 2007 at 8:05 am
Hey McClown, Instead of using Jesus to try and block out the boo birds, why didn’t you pray for a good throw to Porter last Sunday. Get Jesus to solve that problem and the boo birds will go away!
Until Culpepper starts:
I’m OUT!
September 20th, 2007 at 8:08 am
Just read the money issue that Steve put out.
Money can pressure their decision,
Losses do pressure their decision,
Performances pressure their decision,
and knowledge of the other teams pressure their decision.
All of that in mind, THE TEAM does not need “THE NATION” to put any more pressure in the form of Booing to add to it.
Back to DB. Is he at practice today? Who did LK list in his report as hurt?
Anybody?
-Jerry?-
I’M IN
Soldier Out
September 20th, 2007 at 8:25 am
willyboarder73, sorry to say but you can stay out. dont need fans like you around here. love us when we win, hate us when we lose.
raidernation solider…….thanks for what your doing for this country and giving us the freedom to post comments on a daily. i have two brothers that were in the military and a cousin fixin to head out. thanks man, i appreciate it brother.
September 20th, 2007 at 8:25 am
we will never have a ” passrush” as long as ‘dysfunctional’ robryan is there !!! we are
ranked #28 in defense again!!!!!1 ( 25vs run i believe) and low man on sack totem pole!
again!!!!!!
HUNTLEY#94 was kept last year for” sack potential”:was what ryan said , that is
why he cut” RASHAD MOORE,BOB HAMILTON DANNY CLARK RYANRIDDLE” ETC
BUT now this year he isnt????
SO NOW WE HAVE A 6-6- 320 (tom kelly,who i love) BACKSIDE END TRYING TO PURSUE FROM THE BACK-
SIDE???? this i belive is a first in ” NFL HISTORY” ( kelly is a nat @ wdt/ sde)
YOU SEE these are the reasons why we havent had a pass rush since RYANS been there
because he is” DISFUNCTIONAL/ “INEPT ” / INCOMPETENT” and ” dillusional” and
doesnt have a clue about how to put the players in position to make plays !!!!!!!!
he aslo is still using the “BUDDY SYSTEM” ON PLAYER DECISIONS!!!!!!!
now we have a “HEAD COACH ” who is trying to out do him in this department!!!
” LAME ” KIFFIN he claims everyone but him ” WAS DISFUNCTIONAL” !!!!!
TO THE CONTRARY - HERE WE GO STEP BY STEP !!!!!!
he tells BING that he
the strong saftey/ then cuts him mysteriously !
brings in DARIOUS to be savior
at strg safty!!!!!! THEN CUTS HIM !!!!!!
TELLS HUFF HE IS FREE SAFETY !!! then lets
RYAN undermine HUFF,for the 2nd sTRAight year & keep stu ( who is the only bad
player on defense rite now!!!!) at FREE SAFETY ! AND KEE HUFF @ STRONG SAFETY!!!
WHICH IS KILLING THIS DEFENSE !!!!!!! SLOWLY BUT SURELY!!!!!!!
i’ll call it agAin oaklnd WO/ THESE 2 DOPEs!!! ARE 2-0 SOON TO BE 3-0 VS THE BROWNS
WITHOUT THEM !!!!!! BUT LOW & BEHOLD WE ARE 0-2 AND SOON TO BE 0-3 ( THE BROWN
ARE GOING TO LITE “ROBRYAN” AGAIN!!!!! BUT HE CAN BLAME HIS OWN QB , FOR THAT
LIKE HE ALWAYS DOES “JUST LIKE BUDDY USED TO “”" ) and going no where fast !!!!!
I DONT SEE “LAME “LASTING THE YEAR !!!! HOPEFULLY al davis gets directly
involve one last time and does the following
1- FIRE ROB RYAN & put in a 4-3 2 & 3 deep scheme!!!!
2- TELL ” LAME ” KIFFIN HE WILL PLAY DANTE TILL OTHERWISE NOTED!!!!
3- BRING BACK HUNTLEY/HAWTHORNE/ BING/GABRIEL & OTHER QUESTIONABLE
CUTS !!!! GABRIEL @ WIDOUT IS THE FUNNY ONE !!! WE NOW CLAIM WE DONT HAVE
OH & BTW IT LOOKS LIKE EITHERA PERSONEL REASON OR MAYBE EVEN A RACIAL
ISSUE WHY “DANTE” ( STRONG BLACK MAN W/ CHARACTER ) ISNT PLAYING !
IT DEFINETLY IS NOT A FOOTBALL FIELD REASON NOW IST !!!!????? ‘LAME IS JUST
THAT “LAME ”
ENUFF SPEED @ WR !!!! THIS IS A JOKE!!!!!! DOUG # 85 HAS THE WHOLE PACKAGE!!
September 20th, 2007 at 8:27 am
NOW I JUST POSTED ANIT KIFFIN & RYAN FACTS & REALITY !@ 1125 AM
GUARANTEE YOU ALL THAT BY 11.30 AM IT WILL BE DELETD!!!!!
THIS WILL BE LAST TIME THAT HAPPENS !~!!!!!!!
September 20th, 2007 at 8:31 am
I call myself a Raider fan…..buy and wear Raider shirts and hats…. therefore, no matter how stupid I really am, I’m qualified to second guess Kiffen and his staff.
You idiots make me sick….you should be ashamed of yourselves. 2 games into the season and you’re ready to jump ship.
What a bunch of uneducated, immature, crybabies. It’s instant gratification or nothing with you pukes. Why even bother with the Raiders????? go jump on a winning teams bandwagon and leave us “real” Raider fans alone.
September 20th, 2007 at 8:36 am
Oh enough with the ranting “john”. Though i will agree that a lack of pass rush is related to our lack of blitzing in the ryan scheme the players you wish to bring back are throw aways. They are not doing anything anywhere for a reason. Doug#85 was cut three times by three head coaches in about a years time. Huff is not and has NEVER been a free safety. For crying out loud get that straight people. The SS position in this defense is the one in position to make a greater impact and be a gamechanger-that is why he is THERE.
September 20th, 2007 at 8:37 am
hey moron your stupidity in print hasn’t been deleted…..probably because nobody wasted the time to read it……anybody stupid enough to type in all capital letters isn’t worth the effort
September 20th, 2007 at 8:43 am
RIP Dan Birdwell–good analysis, I appreciate it. Some of you guys have a lot of extra time on your hands; you’re able to watch tape or NFL Network’s Replays. I envy you…LOL
Seriously though, I like seeing the serious posters like sirblitzalot–THANK YOU FOR RECOGNIZING “THE TICKET 1050!!!” My brother worked production there for several years, and I really did enjoy hearing Greg, Tom, George, etc. Blitz is right–THIS BLOG IS GETTING TO BE THE BEST PLACE FOR RAIDER INFO, period. The humor here is cool–the “Flying Spaghetti Monster” deity by SICKK, is, well, sick…I understood his point, though. All disrespect to the Christian God aside, I understood his context. Whatever gets you to be a better QB, Josh–I’M ALL FOR IT.
NewEnglandRaider–excellent point. I too, am an ethnic minority, and that comment that JM is starting over DC is over race is just plain ignorant. Kiff want to win, period–he needs to if he wants to keep his job longer than three years, anyway.
September 20th, 2007 at 8:45 am
Jerry, How about providing a link to the ‘web exclusive’ articles on InsideBayArea.com?!
September 20th, 2007 at 8:48 am
No one is jumping ship here (no true Raider fans anyway) but if something doesn’t work you fix it, plain and simple.
I will always be a Raider fan but man but the writting is on the wall for a blind man to see.
September 20th, 2007 at 8:50 am
No pass rush? The Raiders have been one of the most productive teams in that area for the last two seasons. Fact is, over the last two seasons Burgess has lead the league in sacks. Last year Sapp had 10 sacks to lead all DT in the entire league and Burgess while he didn’t lead the league in sacks, he still produced double-digit sack numbers. Anyway, I feel your frustration. People with these ideas that Kiffin is just buying time until C-pep is “ready”(LOL!!) are dreaming. The QB position was an open competition and in Kiffins’ mind McClown won the competition and gives the Raiders the best chance to win. Don’t be angry with me, these are the coach’s words. McClown is in for the long haul like it or not. Once McClown absolutely proves that he’s not capable handling the position then and only then will we see C-pep on the field, barring a serious McClown injury. All this talk about this next game being McClowns’ “last stand” is pure comedy. McClown got the nod as the starter and will continue to get the nod.
September 20th, 2007 at 8:54 am
SouthTexasRaider-Thanks
WillyBoarder73- Walk da’ plank me hardy!!!
qualified moron- true—-so true
DC here for a year? Maybe, but I try to think of it as a judgement call by him to see how healed he really is, and to see if LK can show him a different way to win.
JM out and AW stickin’ around? By JMs performance and JMs injuries- who’s gonna trade for him? AW is almost old enough (DC included) to be a coach/coordinator and ride the sideline after this season.
Hey VibeRaider— I didn’t call your boy “McClown” this time.
OOPS, just did. LOL
I’M IN
Soldier Out
September 20th, 2007 at 8:54 am
Chad E, Culpepper is damaged - you guys are saying this is the DC of 2004. He’ll be out there soon anyway. And my stats aren’t weak, they’re awesome. Whether he understands the playbook or not, he’s not the answer.
September 20th, 2007 at 8:57 am
I agree with Huff24. I think McCown may be the one released. DC will be gone next year, and JM just doesn’t have it as a pro QB. AW at least has untapped potential and knows the system. As far as booing JM, he’s starting, so give him some support, and when he screws up….then boo him! We need this game.
September 20th, 2007 at 9:01 am
Shanarats quote re JM: “I knew the player had a fractured finger because I could see him wince when he threw it …So he has to be a pretty tough guy.”
This is getting crazier by the minute. If JM is clearly is some discomfort throwing the rock why in ‘Spaghetti Monster’s’ world are we still starting him over the qb talents we have on the roster. In IN Kiffin but these decisions are killing me.
Allow me to say one naive thing that no one may agree with: You don’t just give up on a kicker who can boot the ball over 60yds with room to spare. That’s special. I can’t name one kicker in the league who can do that. Of course, if he can’t get the accuracy thing right then what good is he? On that note, get rid of him but if you think you can fix the accuracy thing. Go for it!
September 20th, 2007 at 9:08 am
Norv turner is the man! The raiders are stupid for firing him. The new uniforms are sexy. Phillip rivers is better looking then Tom brady. I love the chargers!
September 20th, 2007 at 9:08 am
I cringe when they bring out Jano for more than 30 yards. That’s all I got. Can JM kick? Just kidding.
I still want to know about yesterdays practice if anyone has anything. Basically, who shwed up,.
Has anyone interviewed “AL” lately about the state of the team?
Soldier Out
September 20th, 2007 at 9:15 am
Injuries, inaccurate passes, turnovers the list could go on and on, however McClown will still be named the starter because Kiffin believes he is the QB that gives the Raiders the best opportunity to win. If Kiffin didn’t truly believe this then he would have altered or reduced the playbook so that C-pep could manage the game. However, it’s obvious that’s not the case. Kiffin believes in McClown and will stay with him. Some of you may feel sad or angry about this, but nonetheless, it’s true.
September 20th, 2007 at 9:15 am
Terrapin, Seabass’s teamates are backing him. That has to count for something.
September 20th, 2007 at 9:15 am
How could DC improve upon 7 yards passing in the first half? Great Speghetti Monster! What are you thinking Kiff?
September 20th, 2007 at 9:16 am
65 passer rating, 7 turnovers, 2 losses
September 20th, 2007 at 9:17 am
RaiderSavage, I actually think he’s our best option. One of the few. But do we hafta call him McClown?
September 20th, 2007 at 9:18 am
Blasphemy…..Spaghetti
September 20th, 2007 at 9:19 am
i think McCheckdown is the best nick name
September 20th, 2007 at 9:22 am
Are you CRAZY!!! I hated (HATED) Norv Turner!! Why do you think you have had some garbage games? Yeah, he has a W. But enjoy the rest of your lackluster season. Norv can’t change his ways.
As-far-as your uniforms…….HAHAHAHAHAHAHA…….. LOL!!!!! I forsee LT having an eye-opening season –The lowest yards of his career!!!!
Lane knows what it takes to win.
JR knows how to make winning plays.
Soldier Out
September 20th, 2007 at 9:33 am
With a QB rating of 65% and having committed 7 turnovers in just 2 games and not forgetting to mention the fact that the Lions, of all teams, felt he had more value as a WR than a QB last year coupled with his far less than stellar performance with the Cardinals, McClown seems like the perfect nickname.