Culpepper vs. McCown: Now what?
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Tuesday, October 23rd, 2007 at 4:43 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Josh McCown remarked last week that when it came time for Lane Kiffin to choose his starting quarterback, at least this time the coach would have a body of regular-season work on which to base his decision.
Culpepper was the fan favorite from the outset. He had a Pro Bowl past in Minnesota and some huge statistical seasons. He had better stats in preseason, and it wasn’t a popular decision when Kiffin chose McCown based on his knowledge of the system.
That much was obvious when McCown began getting booed in the season opener. The pro-Culpepper sentiment increased when McCown was awful in a 23-20 overtime to Denver after limited practice time during the week because of a foot injury.
When McCown broke his toe just before halftime against Cleveland, Culpepper came in to thunderous cheers, finished off a win over the Browns and then had his trimphant return to Miami.
Since then, the offense under Culpepper has produced two touchdowns, a field goal, 13 punts and three interceptions in division losses to San Diego and Kansas City.
McCown’s log before being injured? Twenty-nine possessions, eight punts, five touchdowns, eight field goal attempts, five interceptions and two fumbles.
As shaky as Culpepper has been the last two games, the guess here is McCown being restored as the starter would be hugely unpopular. I can only imagine how loud the boos would have been Sunday if McCown had been the quarterback with the Raiders trailing the Chiefs 6-0.
With Culpepper, it was more of a restless displeasure.
It’s clear at this point the Culpepper is not the same guy who Warren Sapp called the “white rhino” when Culpepper was at Minnesota. (The white rhino designation had to do with Culpepper’s size and power for his position and the fact that white rhinos are extremely rare).
The three rushing touchdowns against Miami created an illusion. Culpepper no longer brutalizes would-be tacklers for rushing gains or bounces off them for pass completions. With the Vikings, before his knee injury in 2005, Culpepper rushed for 400 or more yards six times, with a high of 609.
It was a huge part of Culpepper’s game. He was able to create off broken plays for big runs or big pass plays.
Now the man who averaged 30.6 yards per game rushing before his injury is averaging 5.9 yards per game on the ground since his surgeries. Kiffin and Greg Knapp are attempting to reform him into an efficient, mistake-free quarterback.
Culpepper has been an extremely popular teammate and a classy guy from the day he arrived, acting without any sense of entitlement or expectations. But on the field, he is not likely to be the old Daunte any time soon, and certainly not by the time his one-year contract expires with the Raiders.
McCown, on the other hand, never fully seized the job the Raiders wanted him to have since Day 1. Like Culpepper, McCown acts and carries himself like a respected starter, but through 2 1/2 games was too prone to turnovers and erratic passes.
It’s Kiffin’s job to choose which one of these players has what it takes to return the Raiders to respectability. It’s not any easier of a call now than it was when the season started.
There are already calls from fans and media for JaMarcus Russell, but put yourself in Kiffin’s place. Do you concede six games into the season that the offense you’ve been putting in since minicamps is an abject failure and that you’re willing to go with a quarterback who missed all of training camp?
Assuming Kiffin is not going to throw Russell into the fray this soon, and that Andrew Walter’s time came and went last year, Culpepper and McCown are your choices for the immediate future.
Here is one painful thought: the first quarterback the Raiders courted to be their starter this season was Jeff Garcia, who wasn’t interested in coming to a team which was drafting its quarterback of the future.
Garcia has yet to throw a single interception with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. No assurances he would have done that in Oakland, of course, but what would the Raiders record be if their starting quarterback had no interceptions?
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October 23rd, 2007 at 4:48 pm
Sounds like this could be a good thing. I know Kiffin will let these guys compete to see who will get the starting job, which SHOULD force the best outta the two QB
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:53 pm
To me the painful thought is that we can’t get JRuss out there. Let’s face it, we’re not winning the superbowl this year, and we’re going to lose one or both of Mccown and Daunte next year, if we don’t kick them out to let Jruss start. As a result, it only makes sense to start Jruss if the coaching staff thinks it will make him a better player. So as soon as he’s ready, we need to get him in there. The team has to accept the fact that this is a rebuilding year. I guess thatt’s easier said than done for the veterans and for Kiffin.
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:54 pm
I Think if McCown returns to the lineup he is more suited to the dink game and is better at it than Culpepper, but his arm will not inspire the defense to back up one step.
I’m 55 yrs old, been going to Raider games since 1964. Been dissecting Mr Davis for 43 years. And I aint going nowhere. It’s what I do.
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:56 pm
Ed McGah and Wayne Valley brought young Al into the organization in what 1963′. 4 years later he’d slit both of their throats.
October 23rd, 2007 at 4:58 pm
I WANTED GARCIA ALL ALONG. THAT AND TO PICK TRENT EDWARDS IN ROUND 2 AND CALVIN JOHNSON IN ROUND 1. BUT, AS LONG AS JAMARCUS ENDS UP BEING THE NEXT JOHN ELWAY MINUS THE SCRAMBLING I AM OK WITH THE PICKS THE WAY THE ARE (EXCEPT FOR FRAMPTON AND MOSES). GO RAIDERS…
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:04 pm
If Mr Davis had handled his business properly, Russell would be ready right now.
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:10 pm
We wont see Russell in these next couple of weeks. Lets hope the better man wins the QB posistion & win a few games. It might be too late for that now though. I can’t see C-Pep struggleing & McCown coming in to mop up the mess, because McCown isnt that good either.
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:14 pm
I know college stats are just that, but JR was a 68% passer, with a 167 QB rating in his final year at LSU. Almost 62% for his entire career in college.
I think I would rather watch JR learn than watch some veteran fade.
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:16 pm
JR also missed all of preseason. So lets also take that into account
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:25 pm
Who says the team could not win with Russell? I think this whole training camp thing is alittle over rated, look at what Vince Young did last year with The Titans, and Trent Edwards this year with the Bills and Big Ben with the Steelers.
If JaMarcus is the best Athlete and the most talented wich I think he is. Why does the media/Coaches look at it like “oh well the season is over.” maybe it would be the other way around. Did that thought ever cross ANYONES mind?
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:30 pm
I think that by now we can all see there is no big difference between those 2.
McCown gives us more mobility and pocket awareness if healthy.
Culpepper gives us the threat of the longer pass.
Neither is very careful with the ball, both will turn it over more tha we´d like to see.
Neither is going to win us a game games by themselves.
Personally, I will always prefer the QB with the better arm as he conceivably will force the defense to defend the whole field.
But I really think the point is moot, we need to run the ball and play consistente defense and special teams to get in position to win a game and it doesn´t matter if it´s one or the other unless we can do those other things well.
I trust Kiffin with the choice, it´s in his best interest to play the one who gives us the better chance according to whatever he is trying to run. This debate is really depressing, unless we win 2 of the next 4, I say start the new era.
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:32 pm
Bob Marley Says:
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:30 pm
I think that by now we can all see there is no big difference between those 2.
McCown gives us more mobility and pocket awareness if healthy.
Culpepper gives us the threat of the longer pass.
Neither is very careful with the ball, both will turn it over more tha we´d like to see.
JaMarcus Gives us Mobility and the long pass!!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:44 pm
Nah, stick with Culpepper until Jmarc is ready. McCown is a good #2.
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:46 pm
Damn, this blog has been all over the place since the loss to the Chefs! It just further illustrates how dis-combobulated (sp) things have become. The truly awful part is, after the last press conference, it seems that Kiff is just as befuddled about wh the wheels continue to be off!
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:47 pm
Culpeeper gets away from the center way to slow and that causes problems from the get-go… McCown isn’t much better but is… The key to runniong that O,is that we need a QB that is gritty,and knows how to read D’S and able to call the right plays during a game and culpepper CANT DO IT!!!! He has never been able to switch plays!!! Go with McCown until Russell is ready to play and PLAY RUSSELL!! I hate to see that much money just sitting on the bench.. Play Rhodes,higgins,and help SIMMS at LT!!! Im sorry guys,but MORRISON is totally out of position through out the whole game - some pass plays,dude can’t shed a block and should be moved to the outside.. I know everyone in raidernation thinks he’s all that..But he’s not!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:51 pm
Shawn - none of those QB’s missed camp.
This isn’t Madden. A QB has to know the system and be able to call audibles and read defenses and know how to check off to other plays.
JR has never faced a pro defense in a game setting. That’s what preseason was for. Are you ready to send a signal to the rest of the players that we have given up on the season by starting JR? Let’s start him against a solid run D so he has all the pressure on him?
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:58 pm
Coach on Wheels Says:
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:51 pm
Shawn - none of those QB’s missed camp.
This isn’t Madden. A QB has to know the system and be able to call audibles and read defenses and know how to check off to other plays.
JR has never faced a pro defense in a game setting. That’s what preseason was for. Are you ready to send a signal to the rest of the players that we have given up on the season by starting JR? Let’s start him against a solid run D so he has all the pressure on him?
What diffents does all the BS make when your losing games anyway?
It’s not like we are going to the Superbowl.
and it’s not like Culpepper or Mcown will be here next year.
October 23rd, 2007 at 5:59 pm
MORRISON is totally out of position through out the whole game - some pass plays,dude can’t shed a block and should be moved to the outside.. I know everyone in raidernation thinks he’s all that..But he’s not!!!
Morrison is the best middle LB we have had in A very long time.
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:01 pm
Considering that McCown was injured for 6 of the 10 quarters he played and he still moved the ball better than DC it is hard to imagine DC holding the job unless he can do something.
DOES DC MAKE THE D BACK UP? That’s the big arguement. The evidence says NO. After his 59 yard pass to Porter he faked a handoff and hit Curry fo a 21 yard TD as the D was still playing the run.
NFL teams will give up a 7 point bomb once a game versus giving up 300 yards rushing any day of the week. Every week we say, “stop the run and make them throw”.
Besides, our two longest TD passes were thrown by McCown for over 40 yards each.
This is what Kiffin reminded us about JR in April. How many times a game do you throw the ball 80 yards? Never.
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:03 pm
From a Fan’s POV I would love to see JaMarcus playing right now…But I can see why that would not be Kiffin’s plan for the immediate future.
Kiffin needs to win games now. He needs to change the losing enviroment in order to capture the attention of his veteran leaders. Sapp, Burgess, Jordan, and other players who joined the team after the Raiders went to the SB in 2002. Have never experienced a winning season in Silver and Black. Kiffin needs to win NOW or at least TRY to! Kiffin needs to bring hope and optimism back to the team that several seasons ago dominated the AFC West. The QB currently on the roster best suited to do that is Daunte Culpepper. JaMarcus will have his time to play ball. Now is not the time.
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:03 pm
so koolkell….
If Mr Davis had handled his business properly, Russell would be ready right now.
so apparently you think davis should have givin in to his demands for all the money in the form of an option bonus which would have removed any incentive for a kid with 30M to go to work…russell could go hang out with williams in his grass valley pot farm and never worried about taking a snap in the nfl…..davis did the right thing and got the contract structured the way he wanted it…..russell got his money but if he doesnt show up davis gets it back
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:05 pm
808Raidah Says:
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:03 pm
From a Fan’s POV I would love to see JaMarcus playing right now…But I can see why that would not be Kiffin’s plan for the immediate future.
Kiffin needs to win games now. He needs to change the losing enviroment in order to capture the attention of his veteran leaders. Sapp, Burgess, Jordan, and other players who joined the team after the Raiders went to the SB in 2002. Have never experienced a winning season in Silver and Black. Kiffin needs to win NOW or at least TRY to! Kiffin needs to bring hope and optimism back to the team that several seasons ago dominated the AFC West. The QB currently on the roster best suited to do that is Daunte Culpepper. JaMarcus will have his time to play ball. Now is not the time.
This I agree with.
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:08 pm
I do think McCown was under rated by the Raiders fan base, and I would not be upset to see him back under center.
Culpepper and Newberry have somthing weird going on, even in preseason those two guys never got the snap down. Making Culpepper come out from under center so freakin LATEW!
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:12 pm
Jerry said -
“Since then, the offense under Culpepper has produced two touchdowns, a field goal, 13 punts and three interceptions in division losses to San Diego and Kansas City.
McCown’s log before being injured? Twenty-nine possessions, eight punts, five touchdowns, eight field goal attempts, five interceptions and two fumbles.”
When they QB a drive ends in -
TD
DC - 10%
JM - 17%
FG Try
DC - 5%
JM -28%
Total scoring rate
DC - 15% of his drives
JM - 45% of his drives
Punts
DC- 68%
JM - 28%
Turnover
DC- 16% (Fumble at end of half vs. SD left out should be 21%)
JM - 24%
Offense is about scoring and McCowns worst injury-filled, no practice outing against Denver produced 10 points. That’s more than or equal to what DC has produced healthy the last two weeks.
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:14 pm
Coach, people always create this false ditcotomy of 80yd throws versus the dink. Fred Bilitenkoff got into the HOF catching 15yd outs. Name me a great QB who can’t work 20-40yds downfield. In fact name any great QB who was a dink meister? (Please don’t mention Gannon)
If McCown can get his wide recievers into the game fine. But the Wide Recievers must be involved in any passing game. Neither QB has been able to do that consistently to date. I say the common denominator is the Play-Calling. And I’m not sure McCown is physically able to throw downfield. (Downfield = 15-40 yds)
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:14 pm
SHAWN:
I whole center-QB exchange thing bugs me…I know Culpepper has small hannds and needs to stay under center a little longer to secure the football, but how do you confuse (if you’re Newberry) someone on your butt and being in a shotgun?
Wouldn’t you feel the QBs hands on you butt!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:18 pm
COACH:
Here’s a stat you left out…
WINS:
McCown = 0
Culpepper = 2
PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL IS ABOUT WINNING GAMES!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:35 pm
Exactly! Are we playing for better chances at W’s, or are we playing to see which QB gets their head knocked off first?
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:42 pm
KoolKell -
Much respect to your football knowledge and age. I honestly thought you were closer to my age, I’m 36. Anyway, after reading some of your most recent posts I have gained a new respect for you and your perspective. Not that I expect you to care I just thought I would give props where they are due.
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:50 pm
I’m In…
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:55 pm
OK, OK! I’ve cried all I can cry… I’m In too!
(Just kidding about the crying part)
October 23rd, 2007 at 6:58 pm
I wanted Culpepper as the starter after the pre-season and after the first two games, but now having had the chance to see both of them I don’t think it really matters. JR is the future but I don’t want him sent out there without the full chance to succeed. He has no NFL game experience, not even pre-season. I hope that within the next few weeks Kiffen feels that he is ready to at least take over one or two series per game, but only the coaches who see him in practice can make the determination if he is ready for that or not.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:09 pm
[...] QB undecided in Oakland Inside Bay Area > Inside The Oakland Raiders > Culpepper vs. McCown: Now what? Not that anybody is likely to start these two anyways. I still believe that Jamarcus Russel’s [...]
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:11 pm
“Assuming Kiffin is not going to throw Russell into the fray this soon, and that Andrew
Walter’s time came and went last year”…
…Amidst all this discussion about who should be QB and everyone mentioning the 3 most
obvious options…why not give Walter a freakin’ shot? He played horribly at times last
year, but he also won the only 2 games we won all year. And he was playing behind a
shaky O-line and in a system designed by Tom Walsh of all people. He’s just as apt to
fumble the ball as the other two guys but I have to assume he still has some talent. Give
him a shot or release him.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:12 pm
COW
Nobody say´s Culpepper should start because he can throw it farther than McCown as your reference to Kiffin´s 80 yard throws and subsequent comments suggest.
The point is McCown cannot throw the 2nd TD pass to Porter in Miami or even the Curry TD last sunday… to name a couple of major league throws we´ve seen Culpepper make in this past few games.
McCown´s 2 long TD throws were way behind the WR´s who had to almost stop to wait for the to arrive, plus they were so wide open you and I could have completed those, not to mention the fact that Culpepper never would have missed Porter wide open against Denver.
But anyway, I am not rooting for one or the other, Culpper´s talent require time in the pocket and that is a commodity we can´t afford without the running game. If we couple that with the numbers you just gave us and McCown´s pocket manuverability there is a strong case for McCown.
But you cannot tell me McCown is a better passer than McCown or that the already stout 8 men boxes we are facing are gonna loosen up with McCown more than with Culpepper.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:19 pm
your posts are all rediculous. no wonder raider fans get punked by others as being idiots. you people don’t have a clue about football. put in j.m.??? dummies. he needs a year to learn the playbook, the play calling, the entire offense, game film, etc. what is wrong with dante? Nothing. the problem is coming out with the worst, most conservative game plan i have repeatedly seen. run 1st down left, run second down left, pass incomplete. repeat all first half. i sat there and yelled for a deep post early, or a flag route. stretch the defense early and often then pound the ball inside. the great 49er teams used quick 3 step slant routes early in the first 15 scripted plays to get the defense moving back on their heels. i put all this on young kiffin. i live in fresno, and he is a product of fresno state and pat hill. he needs to wake up, and play nfl football. i don’t see the patriots, and colts running a trap-run offense every first and second own, do you? dante was throwing darts when the plays were called. go back to mcclown? that guy throws like my grandma, or better yet - look at game film of chad pennington - girl arm. i’m done with this nation. educate yourselves.
ruud
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:19 pm
Koolkell…agreed…on the false dicotomy….arm strenght is needed to thread the needle on 15 to 25 yard routes, maybe between a safety and a corner and over a linebacker, not to fire it 80 yds. down the field.
And by the way, I agree that maybe AW should get a shot, it´s not like he´s behind Montana and Young.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:25 pm
Although I would like to see JR start, I think he would get killed at this point. I think our line has improved in the run game; However, the pass protection is still pretty much non-existent. To compensate for this we have to have 2 backs (or Miller in the backfield) to help protect the QB. Daunte has been sacked 8 times in the past 2 games and our defense has sacked the opposing QB 2 times and Rivers and Huarde are not mobile.
So before playing JR, I think we need to improve the run game. Jordan hasn’t showed me anything since he’s been here. I would like Bush to get a shot and see what he can do. If he can run inside effectively, then I think we bring in JR. Like most of you, I don’t see playing Daunte when he won’t be here next year. Mckown could be our backup next year, so I say play him until JR is ready.
I hope like hell that JR and Bush are the real deal or were in for a long few seasons…Been in since 66!
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:25 pm
now that i finished reading all the rest of the posts, i only agree with koolkell. it is the play calling. and i need to call out one other player… that is fat fat fat lamont jordan - don’t tell me that if this jacka%$ didn’t lose 25 pounds that he could actually get to a hole. his back would also not hurt. maybe if he pushed away from the table then he would get enough reps in to stop the back aches. give me a break. i see ronny brown lose 25 pounds and become a monster - + all the other quick backs destroy teams. larry johnson is also fat, he sucks, and the kc. line stinks. we really lost to a crappy team AT HOME!!! I am furious. furious furious. terrible. don’t blame the defense - THEY ONLY HAD 12 POINTS AT THE END. WAKE UP PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:25 pm
Interesting take on Walter. He has the strong arm - just needs time to throw it. He also played last year without: Jerry Porter, Lamont Jordan (injured), Rhodes, Newberry or Carlisle, Griffith, any solid TE, and any semblance of an offensive scheme.
Some coaches like to play “their guys”. Kiff brought in Culp and McCown and Russell. Walter is a holdover and may not be one of Kiff’s “guys” so he doesn’t want to give him a shot. Who knows? But I don’t see why we keep him on the roster if we’re not going to give him his own shot.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:26 pm
ruud, where is fresno?
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:34 pm
Blah Blah Blah - Culpepper, McCown, Walter, Kerry - IT DOESN’T MATTER!
NOT WITH OUR offensively offensive line. They s#ck! Flat out. We have no rush - Miami doesn’t count. Without any protection or rush - no QB - not even T. Brady could work back there.
Next year folks and hope we draft decent. Good thing we interviewed Tony Ugoh - he gets it done for the Colts. Where is Bowe or Bowie or whatever ?!?!?
Next!
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:39 pm
Jermarcus can move and throw better than DC AND MC give the
kid a shot in 2nd quarter of this week game.Give him a series or two.
We don’t play good in first half anyway.
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:47 pm
Ruud I agree with your assessment of Jordan. He’s to heavy and doesn’t hit the hole fast enough. Put Bush in and see what he has.
Nick - the pass protection sucks and Walter will get killed (no mobility).
October 23rd, 2007 at 7:57 pm
It is time to move Russell up to No. 2. Start giving him reps with the first team.
Play calling has not been good lately. Last game it was that stupid razzle dazzle that the Raiders ran twice with no success. The week before they threw 6 passes out to the wideouts straight down the line that did not work. We need to run screens and draws and bootlegs to misdirect the defense.
Call the Boise State coach for some ideas. He is the best I have seen. On short yardage the dumbest thing you can do is to bring in two tight ends and bunch everyone in the middle. All that does is bring more defenders in to stop you. Spread the field with 3 wide, then run up the middle. It works every time.
On fourth and one give the ball to Griffith with Sapp as the lead blocker(see ‘86 Bears).
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:21 pm
McCown v. Culpepper…
Ointment or Suppository?
Either way not an inspiring choice.
I’m still in.
GO RAIDERS!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:21 pm
Los T, thanks - someone sees the sssssllllllooooowwwwwnnnnnnneeeeeesssssssssssssss. it’s frustrating watching LT, ronny brown, westbrook break 9 yard runs when we get line of scrimmage and push the pile. it makes me miss the days of garner. i like what i see from dominick rhodes. don’t ever put that piece of sh*^ fargas back there again. a light breeze will tackle that guy. as for those of you idiots talking about walter, you need your head examined. culpepper has 5 years + starting experience. stop thinking you know blah, blah. i watched the patriots game on tv and tom brady has an afternoon stroll in the park waiting for his receivers to get open. our line is not that far away, but if you line up in a power formation on every first and second down letting the defense know that you are going to run a trap or draw play, then you will get stuffed. didn’t kiff learn anything from usc or is old pat hill fresno state still in his blood. by the way fresno is in the central san juaquin valley of california between the fires and san francisco. we produce 1 billion dollars a year of produce. thats more than the gdp of 23 of the states in our union. and i’m a teacher a-hole.
ruud (that’s a dutch name - the netherland’s is in europe - do you know where that is on a map - a map is a geological instrument which allows a person to find a location on the planet you live on)
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:26 pm
Ok DC did not have the best game of his career but not counting the Int. at the end of the game I think he did a pretty good job. And probably alot better of a job than McCown wold have. Think of it If it was McCown on that 59 yard bomb to porter he wouldn’t have had enough arm to get it there. He has already shown that he has a week and inaccurate arm. Plus I don’t think he really has as much speed and mobility as people think he does. That and he has shown that he is very unaware when he is in the pocket. I think DC gives us a much better shot. To throw JR in rite now would be stupid. I think he should do what rookie QB’s are supposed to do. Sit and watch. Back to DC. I think he did alright on Sunday. He didn’t have much help with the dropped passes and Griffith letting Jared Allen through to put him on his ass. Also every time he would get a drive going Kiff would revert back to Running plays even though KC had shut the Run down. Im not sure there going to have a winning record but I dont think they should throw in the towel just yet. I’m sure the super bowl is out of the question but just making it even close to the post season would make Oakland contenders and give them a much better chance in the 08 campaign.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:27 pm
Keep Daunte in until Russell is ready.
Coach on Wheels- your stats don’t include the Miami game and the five TDs Daunte accounted for, I take it. I realize the dolphins suck, but if you exclude that game it is an unfair comparison. McCown’s stats against the Lions and Browns, two of the worst defenses versus Culpepper against the Chargers and the Chiefs, two fairly strong defensive units. Also , Daunte has had no running game the last two weeks, a problem McCown didn’t have.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:44 pm
I say stick with Daunte until JaMarcus is ready. I was a McCown fan at the beginning of the season but I can see that Daunte is the better option. He makes a few throws a game that McCown simply can’t. He’s more accurate and I really like how he sells play-action fakes too.
I also say that, barring a winning streak that starts this Sunday, JaMarcus should play ASAP. Vince Young, Matt Leinart, Ben Roethlisberger, Jay Cutler and others have played well enough for their teams to win in their rookie season. Didn’t Big Ben win like 15 straight games as a starter his rookie year? I just don’t buy the idea that putting JaMarcus in means you’re giving up on this season.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:49 pm
Wow. You guys amaze me. First off, Pride and Poise. This is one of our mottos. Poise being defined as composure. In other words we as Raiders DO NOT go into panic mode. Next, the biggest mistake by far any one could make with Jamarcus, an OVERALL NUMBER ONE, is to rush him in. BELIEVE ME, I am completely on tenderhooks waiting to see this guy play with my own eyes!! I was on the opposing sideline for Elways first game as a pro, so I can’t wait to see this guy, believe me. Rushing this guy in there could ruin him. He’ll be in there as soon as he’s ready, I can guarantee you that.
One of the things I’ve said over the first few weeks is this team (and the fans) have to learn how to win. Kiffin said that today. The first couple of weeks the offense did OK, the defense failed. Against Kansas Shitty, the defense played well, offense faded. Magic Johnson called it winning time. We have to seize the opportunities and slam the wins. You do that by making plays in crunch time, not getting picked.
October 23rd, 2007 at 8:54 pm
I think this ruud guy makes a serious point about Raider Fans being Idiots. I’m not talking about the Darth Raider or all the black hole nation or the 66th mob. You guys are cool and are the pride of Oakland and the reason why the raiders are even in Oakland rite now. No I’m talking about all the idiots that think there hard for sporting a Raider jersey or one of the many idiots I saw making asses out of themselves in the Qualcomm Stadium parking lot. And the 3 idiots I saw walking to Qualcomm sporting MOSS jerseys. And last but not least the Dumb asses that the San Diego news interviewed after the game that had a combined IQ of 0. I live in San Diego and I constantly have to listen to Charger Propaganda. And the media here loves nothing more than to pick out the stupidest Oakland fans they can find and put them on tv to show how stupid alot of Raider fans are. So let me give you some advise. If your a retard please don’t speak to the media or better yet just watch the game from home. Thanks
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:00 pm
Chris the QB’s you mentioned all had a complete training camp with the exception of Vince young who came in a little late. By holding out, J-Russ missed hundreds of reps. Rothlisberger subbed in after the starter got hurt in the first game, and Leinert, Young and Cun*ler were all backups as well until half way thru the season. Shenanigan was very smart starting Cun*ler in the last few games, it has paid off for them.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:22 pm
After 6 games, it’s apparent that 1. McCown is not the answer and 2. Culpepper is not the answer. We’ll have to have a good run game and good defense in every game in order for either of them to win. Against the better teams in the league, it doesn’t look like we can get that done - our o-line success early in the year was against sub-par teams, and even then we had trouble opening up the passing game - Porter and Curry are #2 wide receivers, LJ is a back-up running back, and we need some major help on the oline - Kiffin is handcuffed with his play calling in the passing game because we cannot pass block consistently - that’s why we have the dink and dunk - we only have success on the long routes off play-action and in 3rd and shorts later in the game - We need to build a better oline in the offseason through draft and FA/Trade and get a legitimate #1 WR (Chad Johnson may be available although i don’t know that we want him) - anyway, once we hit 6 or 7 losses, it’s J-Russ time in the Raider Nation
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:30 pm
Stevo, if you live in San Diego, shouldn’t you be cutting the brush around your house right now?
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:54 pm
Nope, I live in the city so I’m not threatened. Hey does anyone know how to watch game on Gamepass. Or any other way of streaming it. I have had to listen to 2 games on the radio this season because they refuse to broadcast the games down here. Unless its a Charger/Raider game or the Chargers aren’t playing that day or if they are being broadcast on FOX.
October 23rd, 2007 at 9:57 pm
The biggest fallacy in sports is that if U rush a guy you ruin him. I don’t know why I’m wasting my breath because Russell will start when he can help us win–Coach Kiff. He must be able to run a gameplan, which means he must ascend to #2 on the depth chart.
Back to my argument. You can give me a list of guys who were “rushed in” and ruined, and I can give U a list of some MEN who play football.
Aikman, Marino, Elway all came out of the gate slingin’ and Aikman and Elway got their heads kicked in. I could list all the QB’s who played their first season but if I did, we would run out of space.
Here is what I’m asking U, how many great QBs sat their entire rookie seasons? Remember I said great, there are very few. There are many 2nd, 3rd, 4th, etc picks that sit out, but they are chumps to start with. Hobert, Tuiasosopo, Walter, and the list goes on for just about every team in the league.
Bottom line is that Russell is supposed to be a freakish talent for this position, that is why we drafted him there.
Culpepper will remain the starter for now. I hope Kiffin gets JR into that # 2 slot soon. It all hinges on Kiffins confidence in Russell’s growth with the playbook. Once he is happy with that, a full week of practice and Russell is ready to go. FU$K pre season, it don’t mean SH!T, stop making stupid excuses. JR is not a fragile little baby who might not survive being dropped on his head.
He is every bit of a GROWN A$$ MAN, and he will show U all this when he plays. He is a physical specimen with skills like very few others to come out, it means nothing if he doesn’t amount to something. Kiffin will not feed him to the wolves, but he will get him out there when he’s ready.
If the QB play continues to struggle, we will see him sooner rather than later. If those 4+ passes which were dropped Sunday were caught, we wouldn’t be having this conversation. Curry dropped a 30-40 yd beauty right on his hands crossing the field, and the one over the middle had six written all over it. This is why there will be no return for McCown. Coach K has seen enough to know DC gives him the best chance for now.
As for U McCown backers, PLEASE don’t forget to factor in the quality of the defenses we faced the last two weeks. C’MON!!!!!
If our D can play at the level it did Sunday, we will be alright. Just get to #2 JR….PLEASE!!!
Russell will start before the year is out……GUARANTEED!
JUST GET RUSSELL READY BABY!!!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:06 pm
Steve,
Here is a link….. after U go to the sight and bookmark it, google sopcast player and download it. On game day there will be a list of games available. Open the Sopcast player, then downsize it and click a link for the game of your choice. There are usually multiple feeds, some work better/cleaner/clearer than others but U will find a good feed for almost every NFL game every week. I watched the MNF game on the PC because my “Special TV setup” wasn’t getting ESPN….
OK the link: http://www.myp2p.eu/NFL.htm
Now there is info for some other proggies to d/l if U like. If U get a cable for your PC to TV, U can throw this bad boy up on the big screen, plasma, etc…
Did I mention JaMarcus Russell is a GROWN @$$ MAN!!!
JUST GET RUSSELL READY BABY!!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:14 pm
Chad every guy you listed had an entire training camp to get ready. For the four or five QB’s that you listed, Elway sat behind DeBerg for the first 7 games, there are literally hundreds of players who just don’t make it. Leaf, Harrington, top picks rushed in, busts. Aaron Rogers hasn’t seen one down. Farve sat, Vick didn’t play his first year behind Chris Chandler. And every one of those players, EVERY ONE, had a full training camp. C’mon dude.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:17 pm
If you cant run the ball effectively you are going to have problems in the passing game.
KC had 8 men in the box the entire game; and Culpepper’s numbers were’nt bad, although he had the one interceotion at the end of the game.
A better play selection could of helped. Everything up the gut or off tackle. How about a couple of sweeps and some screen plays with fluidity.
Mc Cown has never been the answer anywhere ; So lets not forget his dismal performances.
Our best chance to go 8and 8 is with Culpepper!!!
PS. Visiting Oakland from NJ for the first time: My birthday present to me. Im having a hard time finding a ticket. If anyone can help me please contact me .
macblackent@yahoo.com Chicago vs. Oakland
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:20 pm
talking qb well ,lets talk rb, Is this another reason why we’re not winning?. Lamont
Jordan having back problems and is still playing. I think its better for a healthy
rb to carry the ball. Its about time for lj to go.he is damm slow and cant even move
when carryin the ball. we need a quik fast rb with jf he should be the starter with dr as
the back up or either way, but lj should be benched period……bad back. maybe he is
tryin to hold on to his starting roll.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:21 pm
Also forgot Akili Smith, Heisman winner Andre Ware, Heath Schuler and our own Todd Marinovich, all of which were rushed in waaaay to early. Mark, you’ll be able to get a ticket, but sorry all my Chicago tix are taken.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:26 pm
framton aquired off wavers.. Minnesota
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:27 pm
oakglenn,
Favre played in two games, threw four passes and completed two, to the opposing team, and was traded to GB, the rest is history. My question was how many great QB’s sat all year. U didn’t mention one great one my friend.
The great ones play, because they have too. U guys are giving games that everyone says don’t matter every year, way too much importance. Snaps in practice are every bit as important as the ones in the X. Ask coach K, he is the one who chose to start the least impressive X QB.
U cannot RUIN a great QB, it is impossible. If a guy can be ruined he never was, or will be great. SORRY!
JUST GET RUSSELL READY BABY!!! AND KIFF IS!!!!
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:36 pm
Chad, I’m agreeing with ya. I can’t wait to see this guy. I think he is gonna really be something. And like Shenanigan did with Cun*ler last year, take your lumps early with him. No doubt we’ll see him later in this season, but probably no time soon. The point I was making was there haven’t been any GREAT QB’s that walked in to the team facility in week 4., started in week 7 and was unbelievable from that point forward. Not gonna happen. That being said, I’m with ya, get J-marc ready to play.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:38 pm
hey, does anyone know about Grady Jackson? Is he worth a damn, could he help our defensive line AT ALL??
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:39 pm
Man… I really look forward to our team playing better so we can turn our tooth-cutting to fans of 31 other teams. Pride and Poise, Commitment to Excellence, and Just Win, Baby: Raider mottos that are not only for the players but the fans. Going with more truth: it hurts to have all these losses. Two and four with a looming two and five (should things work out as the blokes in Las Vegas have their way) after our last four seasons (plus the game in San Diego without Robbins) makes for a very painful stretch. The easy road when I’m hurt is to go out and try to hurt someone else (the Principle of Talion, or retaliation). Works in Junior High football, and sometimes high school. In the adult world, it just seems like a tantrum (James Trapp kicking that punk from Denver who never had an offensive pass interference called on him against Woodson). My kids do this stuff… lash out at whomever is nearest or trips their live wire. Pride and Poise? Here is my point, as narrow as I can make it. Live these mottos. Be the agent of change that you want. Poise in the face of adversity does not mean you bend over farther and smile as you take it. Protect the team. Rather than beheading players (Jordan, the QBs, Schweigert, Gallery) focus them (as they ARE our family) on what is needed. Jordan, since his back spasmed, has stopped putting his foot on the ground to hit the line hard. He’s taken back to floating through the crowded line space. Notice our reactivity and take a couple of breaths before spouting out a tantrum. Rant, go ahead, and make arguments for what we want… to run hard, to release the ball earlier, to stay at home in the gaps, to win a close game when all phases of the game work in synchronous beauty (sync). Back to the hurt: it’s a daily thing. We get it from all angles in public and family life. My hair is hella long right now as I vowed not to cut it since we lost to Houston and they won their first back to back games as a result. My hair is a local public symbol for Raider haters that keep taking their shots about how it will all be gray before I can cut it. So what. There is not an insult that cannot be turned around. We are so damned sensitive to this period of poor play and with some have forgotten how to live through hard times, adversity, and public ridicule for our values. So be it. Forget quick fixes. forget trying to change what has already passed. Play for the current play and the next, and remember what happened before so when it crosses our path we avoid getting duped again.
Whomever wrote the critique about Morrison is right in part. He’s still young, and is not in the throes of players like Lewis or that guy in Chicago. He’s different. Had he been the same as the others we would have less issues with stopping the run in our division. However, I like him. He’s a Raider from boyhood on into his adult professional life. I like his heart even though he tends to get swallowed up by guards at the line. When he can blitz untouched he makes great plays on the back. He’s smart, calls the plays, and has built a little competition with Howard in snagging interceptions. Pieces are fitting together and there are other gaps we need to address. Dead wood? I would rather cut out the fans who stop cheering on the defense when our opponent has us under their thumb on the score board. Make some noise. BE the 12th man (or woman or child)! Make Oakland a mind-numbing place to play no matter the team’s performance. Great comebacks are not make when we are dominating on the score board (unless it’s against us like Cleveland last year).
Pride and Poise, baby. Commitment to Just Win. Excellent (Bill and Ted style).
Raider on,
Guamanian Raider
p.s. time is not the measure of a Raider’s fan, love is. And love takes all sorts of twisted forms.
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:43 pm
thank you GR
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:45 pm
Later in the season I think we will see JR… I was hoping we could hang to have a shot at a WC berth but if it becomes obvious we can’t make the playoffs we will see JR but not until then. Also we are rebuilding this offense, we are trying to establish the run and establish dicipline on the line so when JR comes in he will not get clobbered. I thought JM would be a lot better than he is and after the last preseason game I had high hopes for DC but it is obvious both have lost something since the last time they seriously played QB. You can not blame JM’s inaccracy or DC’s missed reads or stupid double pumps on Kiffin’s play calling. We simply do not have very good talent on QB outside of JR and JR needs a lot of experience but he needs the right experience. Start him at home against a weaker defense the first time be strategic think rebuild. I know AD hates that but it is just the way it is. The franchise was not destroyed in a year and it will not be rebuilt in a month!
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:46 pm
Thanks Chad
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:55 pm
By the way… The OL is playing better than I expected. On a couple of plays DC had forever to make a throw. I was flashing back to 2002 when Gannon had 5-8 seconds sometimes to make a throw (and often he - DC - did something stupid with it in many cases or WRs dropped the ball etc…). I think our new TE after getting schooled last week played really well this week and I also think LJ is slowed by the back injury and is hurting the run game. I wonder if Bush is all the way back yet?
October 23rd, 2007 at 10:57 pm
Love is fickle my friend.
October 23rd, 2007 at 11:09 pm
The Raiders organization is whisling in the dark. A few more losses and kif I going to look a lot younger in his post game news conferences. He will be stuttering more. I would love to see L. Jordon dropped to #2. We saw what Fargus did to Miami, that just tells you that Lamont is the same loser he has always been. We Know Rhodes is faster, attacks the line, but can stutter step and juke much quicker and better that Lamont. I watched Behind the Shield and they interviewed Rhodes. This guy has one purpose and only one purpose in life and that is FOOTBALL. I say let him open our game by starting him and letting him carry the 26 or more times. Lamont is a bum and will always be a bum. What can’t this organization see that?
October 23rd, 2007 at 11:12 pm
Why cant this organization see that? Also, I (I mean) Rhodes can catch the ball CONSISTENTLY coming out of the backfield. Jordon drops the passes when they most count. Lamont cannot concentrated under pressure, I (I mean) Rhodes has excellent hands and NEVER drops a pass.
October 23rd, 2007 at 11:23 pm
Grady Jackson got released and is an ex Raider. The guy is 345 lbs and I want him on this team. I will take anybody who can clog up the middle at this point. It would be great to have 3 big men in Jackson, Warren and Sands. Thats what I’m talkin about. Lets go get this guy. We have nothing to lose.
October 24th, 2007 at 12:27 am
Hey Kool,
It sure is, and it doesn’t always give us what we want!
Raider on,
Guamanian Raider
October 24th, 2007 at 12:36 am
“Assuming Kiffin is not going to throw Russell into the fray this soon, and that Andrew Walter’s time came and went last year, Culpepper and McCown are your choices for the immediate future.”
*correct*
“the guess here is McCown being restored as the starter would be hugely unpopular.”
*correct*
October 24th, 2007 at 2:04 am
KK and Bob,
I’m not saying there is something inherintly wrong with Culpepper and McCown is a much better QB. I’m saying I’d understand Kiffin starting McCown.
The idea that McCown couldn’t throw a 21 yard pass to a wide open Curry this week is absurd.
As for the arm issue. Against Cleveland hit Curry in stride for a 41 yard TD. Culpepper badly overthrew Curry on the exact same play against SD and a stumbling Curry was tackled at the one. Two plays later DC fumbles and no points come of it.
Wins -
Culpepper 1win 2 losses as a starter
McCown 1 win and 2 losses as a starter
McCown left the Cleveland game with a 16-7 lead. Culpepper was outscored 17-10 in the second half but Culpepper won the game? In baseball Dc was a blocked FG away from a blown save.
culpeppers one win was against Miami when he threw only 12 passes for 78 yards.
I would have no problem sticking with DC because I see little difference but I would understand going with McCown.
McCown put the team in a position to win in every game he played in. Missed FG’s vs Det and Den or McCown could be 3-0 as a starter.
Culpepper had 2 good drives versus Sd and two versus KC. Is one drive a half really your idea of good play?
October 24th, 2007 at 2:22 am
Grady Jackson was a Raider at the begining of his career, I don’t think he would come back unless we were his last opt. But if teams are letting him go, then maybe he is too fat to move
October 24th, 2007 at 4:45 am
YEAH Huff….we could use Grady and dump Tyler ! Then Sapp could play some end.
No matter how Grady is he’s better than Tyler! Just throw him in there and Warren and Sands can rotate. We could move our guys around and confuse the O by not having them know where Sapp is going to line up and attack from.
I know you guys are bagging on Sapp, but he still plays hard. He’s been getting doubled since DBurg has been out and he’s lighter. This makes all the more sense to use him at end on passing downs.
October 24th, 2007 at 5:56 am
Walter can, and should be the starter for this team. Culpepper should be the second choice. McCown, should be the third choice. Bush and Russell shouldn’t be exposed to this mess.
Fabian Washington should take Schweigarts spot.
October 24th, 2007 at 6:13 am
The Raiders are not a playoff caliber team and if they do squeak into the playoff if will be because our division sucks. They sure as hell will not make the super bowl and there is no way we can compete with the playoff teams of NE & Indy as we are embarrassingly going to find out when we face Indy. Putting JR in as soon as we can is not a sign of giving up; it is a sign of dealing with reality. Look at how Houston w/Young was able to compete against Indy.
October 24th, 2007 at 6:18 am
Jerry,
Great post! Thanks for all of your hard work. The next time you see Sapp tell;l him that its actually black rhinos that are the most rare. I was in South Africaa last month. Both white and black rhinos are grey in color, so the “white” and “black” labels are a misnomer. The two look exactly like except for a small hump just below the neck on the white rhino.
October 24th, 2007 at 6:36 am
I don’t think Kiffin will want to do it, but he’s smart and I think he’ll soon realize that he has no choice. He must open up the passing playbook once again for DC. Tennesse’s D will not back off until DC proves he can beat them.
Kiffin doesn’t have to come out throwing, but its imperative that he gets the offense in a rythm early. Run here - a few quick passes there - throw Tennesse’s D off balance early. DC MUST execute (no 3&outs like SD) or the game will be loss early. We cannot fall too far behind in the count.
We face another team (like SD) that is great against the run but lags in passing defense. 1st vs run - 24th vs pass. I don’t think Kiffin will start out with 3 straight passes again. He learns quick as this may get DC in trouble. I think he’ll start out with some misdirection stuff (screen passes, etc) to get the O in rythm.
If V.Young plays, its going to be a long day for the D. They better gas-up the tank because they will have to play the whole field, unless they can ALL get in the backfield to disrupt him.B But VY will still be tuff to bring down.
This is going to be a tuff battle for this team.
October 24th, 2007 at 6:40 am
Atlanta has released Grady Jackson, any chance Oakland tries to pick him up?
October 24th, 2007 at 6:56 am
Grady can play!!!!! There will many teams trying to get him. Him being cut may have something to do with him suing the Falcons.
October 24th, 2007 at 7:09 am
great article jerry.
some great comments in here and well, dumb ones of course.
sure could use grady on the line, he definately will take two guys to move him. who cares if he is slow, as long as he plugs 1 hole that would be fine.
JM and DC have pros and cons. JM lacks what DC has and JM has what DC doesnt.
JR has what both lack but is just not ready.
i think DC is still the better fit, for now.
the ones wanting him will be the first to bash him when he makes a mistake.
one thing, i would like to see burgess and sapp as our ends. hmmmmmm who would they double-team now.
the season is still very much salvageable but i guess only real fans would think that.
October 24th, 2007 at 7:31 am
Vince Young is just another in a long line of “running QB’s”. I watch this kid and he still dowesnt trust his arm.
That’s why he got injured in the first place, and that’s why he will be injury prone his whole career. He still doesn’t trust his arm as much as his feet. This is the NFL, which means not for long when U run around TOO much.
Thing is, VY has loads of talent, but again doesn’t trust his arm enough yet. With Howard & Morrison, I’m not too worried about VY. I am expecting another stout performance from the D, I expect them to be pretty steady from here on out. Kiff has got to get the offense rolling.
If we keep losin’ it’s FRANCHISE time. JR will make everyone forget VY, I can’t wait to see him line up under center. This kid won’t frazzle easily. God gave him talent which doesn’t get handed out too often, and he knows it. He is as smooth as molasses, and just as sweet.
JR will be Shaq like in his impact. The only ingredient missing is playbook knowledge, and Kiffin has people working behind the scenes to get him where he needs to be ASAP.
In a division bereft of QB dominance, it’s about to change for many years to come. I CAN’T WAIT!
JUST GET RUSSELL READY AND WIN BABY!!!!
October 24th, 2007 at 7:35 am
Oh, and I can’t help but feel that there is a large faction of fans who are AFRAID JR will be a bust.
I mean AP and CJ are looking like the real deals. I say when it’s all said and done JR will tower over every single pick in this draft. I AIN’T SKEEERED!
Bring it on! Let the BIG DOG loose. The autumn winds are changing, the future is coming, tha agony and shame will be but a memory. We will taste the sweet nectar of victory and dominance again. Get the damn learning curve out of the way this season, so out of the gate next year we will hit the ground running!
JUST GET RUSSELL READY AND WIN BABY!!!
October 24th, 2007 at 7:44 am
hey chad as far as vince goes……………
THE MADDEN CURSE LIVES!!!!!!!!
October 24th, 2007 at 7:45 am
hey chad E. as far as vince youg goes……………
THE MADDEN CURSE LIVES!!!!!!!!
October 24th, 2007 at 7:46 am
to all u Cullpepper idiots…..now you know why Kiffin said Mccown gives us the better chance to win ….you second guessed him …you called for Mccowns head ….you boooed him….you sorry monday morning quaterbacks have got to know that the head coach sees , knows and understands more about his team than your dumb asses will ever know….shut up …go to the game …and cheer your team on as best you can ……Im all in ……
October 24th, 2007 at 7:52 am
Lets face it Raider fans JR is no where close to playing for quite sometime. Have we already
forgotten that he held out forever and probably doesn’t deserve to start. DC is the only
answer we have for this year. The formula for stopping the us now is in. Overload the
box and dare us to throw. The only QB who can throw down field and expose defenses
is DC. Josh is very inconsistent, which is why he couldn’t win the starting job in AZ
or in Detroit. He is basically a rookie QB. DC I believe will get better as the season
goes, as he becomes more and more confortable with the Offensive scheme. He’s
not the same old Daunte with his legs anymore but he still has a cannon. We need
to take more chances down the field and he is the only man that the poses a legitamate
threat
October 24th, 2007 at 7:53 am
why do you want jamarcus russell? to throw 2 yard passes? tha big arm would be a waste under kiffin’s system… face it…
October 24th, 2007 at 8:00 am
Falcon’s cut Grady Jackson, I think we should bring him back?
October 24th, 2007 at 8:03 am
Grady was cut as a cost saving move for a team not headed to the playoffs, when he was here he played great ball, I think he’d be great playing along side Warren.
October 24th, 2007 at 8:09 am
If JR sits this year and watches , learns the play book and schemes, he’ll be better than Jason Campbell of the redskins or Carson Palmer, they shouldn’t rush the kid, imagine if he plays this year isn’t ready and some player wanting to make a name for himself hurts the kid badly , no I say they should just let him sit and learn for the rest of this season.
October 24th, 2007 at 8:09 am
What about bringing back Rod Woodson as a FS, that would be a great upgrade!!!!! hohoho…
October 24th, 2007 at 8:14 am
hhaahahaha thats a good one raider Joe ……hes better than what we got ….hey and why not sign Dion ……marty wont block us picking him up this time :)P …
October 24th, 2007 at 8:15 am
First… the only positive thing to say about Culpepper is, that he found J porter…I dont like his technique…
Second… I think we have a better chance to win with McCown, if he’s healthy.
Third… JAM’s big arm would only be shown 3-4 times in a game… and I don’t want to see him this year. I want him to be filled with confidence when next season starts.
Lastly I still believe in Kiffin, the 4th and 1 was the right call…
October 24th, 2007 at 8:17 am
I will say it again… JRuss is not the ideal guy to be in this kind of system… We should get a phenomenal receiver to disturb oposing teams CJ was perfect… anyway…, with Mike Bush as RB Jruss in the mix, Zach Miller and an upgrade in the OLine this team would be for real! First of all Kiff must be more agressive… I still think JRuss will be a waste thowing for 5, 10, yards to a slant route!
October 24th, 2007 at 8:17 am
Eugene Wilson lost his starting job in NE, he is in his last year… we should take him…
Samkon Gado has been released by the Texans, they signed Eche from their practice squad… dang!
October 24th, 2007 at 8:21 am
Raider JOE….
do you honestly think we drafted JAM to throw the ball 70 yds every time, short throws and runs open the few long plays…
Grady Jackson was great, he’s not what he used to be, the same thing about Rod Woodson… they were great, and we shouldn’t had let them go. but they can’t save us now
October 24th, 2007 at 8:24 am
AND ITS A TIE FOR OAKLANDS DUMBEST RAIDER COMMENT
Raider JOE Says:
October 24th, 2007 at 8:09 am
What about bringing back Rod Woodson as a FS, that would be a great upgrade!!!!! hohoho…
——————————————————————————————————-
ljc Says:
October 24th, 2007 at 8:14 am
hhaahahaha thats a good one raider Joe ……hes better than what we got ….hey and why not sign Dion ……marty wont block us picking him up this time :)P …
October 24th, 2007 at 8:27 am
All DC did (except for the last play when Curry wasen’t looking during his first pump) was hit guys in the hands ALL day. How many big drops did we have? 5 maybe 6? DC is playing, and going to continue. JM…Are you serious?? 8 in the box means he has NOWHERE to throw due to a weak arm. JM…killin me!
October 24th, 2007 at 8:29 am
Oh yes, what about Newberry’s snap when he thought DC was under center? Another strike against DC?
October 24th, 2007 at 8:30 am
I would love to see Gannon back as a QB’s coach. Always a bright guy.
October 24th, 2007 at 8:31 am
KD…
good point… isn’t it two times now that Newberry thought DC would be under center?
October 24th, 2007 at 8:32 am
La Milicia Negra: No I don`t think so! But I’m ok with that, in fact I totally agree with you…(I hated the “greatest show on turf” 90% pass plays 10% running? naaah that is not football) but just count how many times does this system use a 30+ yard pass.. I would not say a 40+, 50+… A crossing pattern route does not require a cannon arm, just to be accurate and to be on time… Maybe JRuss he would be a great fit in an extremely agressive system like Colts or Bengals…
October 24th, 2007 at 8:32 am
they both got my vote, lmao
October 24th, 2007 at 8:35 am
I believe Kiffen will use what JRuss has, a big arm makes everything easier and closer. Don’t forget, dude has a great touch on the ball. He controls the speed very well, I hope you guys are surprised and more importantly wrong.
October 24th, 2007 at 8:37 am
Yeah I believe it is. WTF?? Is his ass that insensitive?
October 24th, 2007 at 8:39 am
good points kd, curry dropped 2 HUGE passes that would have resulted in first downs.
October 24th, 2007 at 8:41 am
I truly believe we are a better team..we will win more games ..we will win divisional games ..we will eventually make a playoff spot but it takes a process to get there..we are too ealry in the process to jump ship on our guys….we in a far better position than the dolphins, jets, rams and a few other teams to name ……Kif is doing a remarkable job. I can a least go to the games and know we are going to compete and have a chance to win. trust in the process i can see its working so i know u guys can too …..Im all in
October 24th, 2007 at 8:43 am
ijc, what are you rambling about? You’re speaking as if McCown just played on Sunday, and won the game. What were you watching on Sunday, old footage of Mccown’s College games? The “McCown gives us a better chance at winning” was yesterdays news. Kiffin has moved on from that statement, and so should you. Don’t come here with that you idiots Daunte crap unless something in line of a W has been proven by another QB.
October 24th, 2007 at 8:45 am
I cant believe so called Raider fans, would prefer McClown over C-pep. The only mistake C-pep made VS. the chiefs was the int. at the end of the game. But, he is by far the best QB we have right now. How many times did Curry drop balls that were thrown right to his hands. It’s pathetic to think that McClown gives us the best chance to win!! The guy Fricken SUCKS!! The team will lose all respect for Kiffen if he is STUPID enough to put in SORRY AS MCCLOWN!! Put him in and see how fast the Raider nation starts booing his sorry ass!!
October 24th, 2007 at 8:53 am
ok ljc, better chance to win huh
moron. thats why we started the season 0-2 right!!??!!
first time i see you post in here and its with that, lmao.
better chance to win with a qb that couldnt be the starter on two different teams over a pro-bowl vet.
sure buddy.
October 24th, 2007 at 8:59 am
Raider Rain ..now now fella……if Pepp was a better quaterback the 1st and goal at the 1 in san Diego would have at least been a field goal …..#2 ….if people are asking For JR …that tells me Daunte has not done a much better job than Mccown …and if thats the case its a wash Pepp is not a hella lot better than Mccown ..if the facts are that a former pro bowler is a shell of himself and can not distance himself from a journeyman QB with little experience then that should tell you where Pepp is in his career ….i agree there were dropped balls during the game ..and a bad snap ….but what the hell did he do befor that …NOTHING….3and out ….I am not close to being a Mccown Fan ..actually I think Walter outside of his slug feet ..is the best QB on the roster…so that shud give you something to laugh at for a while ..:) ….
October 24th, 2007 at 9:06 am
“i hope you guys are surprised and more importantly wrong” nice and precise =)
which guys?, what did these guys say, that was wrong?…
October 24th, 2007 at 9:08 am
ljc…….Dont be a fool man. McClown is a LOSER. He SUCKS and he will always SUCK! It’s beyond me how anyone could want that energy killer as their QB. I know for a fact that the team thinks he sucks. He has never won anything. He doe’nt make big plays and he drags the rest of the team down. Talk about killing your teams spirit. He takes the cake. C-Pep is not the same QB he was in Minn. but he’s the best we have right now. Why play McCown, whats the advantage. If we are going to scrap C-Pep, we should scrap him to build for the future(RUSSELL). Not for a sorry QB that is on his way out anyway!!!
October 24th, 2007 at 9:14 am
Just so that I clarify my comment to all you hard core raider fans….i was not saying Mco cown is the better QB i was saying that thats why Kiffin said Mccown gave us the ” best chance to win”….is becaus ur boy Poop….i mean Pepp ..has not seperated himself as far as being the better QB…after watching both players body of work ..I would have to agree ..Kiffin has come out on mondays and said “i have no idea why Josh made that decision”..he has also coem and and said…”Daunte has got to make better decisions”….you tell me whos a better QB ..i have watched I have seen ….Daunte should be better hell he’s a former Pro Bowler……………………………….but he has made some terribleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee decisions….u guys know it as well ….u dont pump on a slant and then try to throw the slant to the same receiver ..i think u guys know that that and you got to see first hand why you cant do that ….
October 24th, 2007 at 9:18 am
I say ..if we go 2-5 the furture starts now …put in JR …..
October 24th, 2007 at 9:22 am
La Millica - 4 and 1 was the wrong call. We lost the game from because of it. You have to take scoring opportunities when they are there. In a 6-0 game, as we found out 3 points could mean the victory. Madden was often criticized during his tenure for being conservative in these situations his mantra and response was ‘TAKE THE POINTS’. As much as Kiffin says he would do it again. I seriously doubt it. Rookie mistake.
JM - After watching DC for 2 weeks I firmly believe as shaky as his play is, JM puts us in a better position to win. the bottom line is both are not the good and we have higher expectations. Should be a good lesson for all of us he tried second guessing Kiffin for starting JM in the first place (like me!)
October 24th, 2007 at 9:23 am
Why do some of you assume JR will be a waste in this system?
Elway, Manning, Palmer etc have arms, but none of them air it out deep all the time. NO TEAM IN THE LEAGUE GOES DEEP THE MAJORITY OF THE TIME. The only qb that is airing it out DEEP is Brady and thats because he has vintage RMoss on his team.
Its more important that JR be accurate and judiuous with the ball than being able to toss it 80+ yds. I believe that is the main reason why we got him - he is accurate as all hell - something like 68% his senior year - well over 60% for his college career. Plus he’s even accurate when he’s on the run - perfect for Kiffins rollouts.
Like Kiffin said before the draft - his ability to throw the ball 80+yds is a plus but how many times are you going to see that in a season? Thats not why they drafted him.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:24 am
All these last 2 games have prooven is the Raiders offence has a long way to go. At this point it does not matter who the QB is.
I Also believe if JR had signed before Training camp he would have been starting by now Dc would have either been with another team or still looking for work and Mike Bush would have been activated from the pup.
As it stands now even if he is ready to play he will probably be placed on Ir because they dont have room for him on the roster right now. They need to carry 4 QBS because Jr aint ready and JM is a question mark health wise. iam also think at this point and time Because MB has been on the piup all this time they may not be willing to role the dice and hope he can contribute. So rather then Waive Fargas he stays because he at least helps out on special teams Caugh! Caugh! Jordan’s back will also be a question mark all season. So in a round about sort of way the extended hold out of JR has effected the make up of the roster at 2 positions it is looking more and more like we will not see MB on the field this year. Unless the raiders bite the bullet and cut a QB or maybe Whats his name Charles? or is it Chris Johnson? I forget but the fans aint real fond of him anyway he dont contribute much cut him and activate Bush Bush can warm the bench on game day in uniforme just as well as Johnson. LOL.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:24 am
ijc, people have been asking for JR since the beginning, as well as they should, he’s the Raiders #1 draft pick. Dude, your post was simply to get back at people calling for Daunte, and nothing else. Thanks for your dated comments.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:26 am
I HOPE, which is the main word there about “JR not being a good fit for Kiffen’s system.” I HOPE that Kiffen will mold the system around JR. I hope he surprises those who are having a hard time believing in him. I think he is going to be a really special QB. I nobody knows ya know.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:28 am
* But nobody really knows right now. We can only hope.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:33 am
hey ljc (loose jaw chirping)
DC has been away from the game for over a year and still looks better than your boy JM>
its not poor decision making, its called trying to make something happen.
proven fact is we havent won with JM at the helm and probably wont if he is put back in.
but ill let you go so you can put your face back in JMs crotch and continue with your loose jaw
your comment makes no sense what so ever. and quit quoting everyone else just to make a comment.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:38 am
ljc, did you notice that Curry wasen’t looking when DC pumped the first time? Stupid was trying to squeeze it in after the pump, but if Curry saw what DC had seen before the play started. It would have been a quick slant for about 8yrds. Bad throw after plan A failed. He didn’t ajust to Curry’s mistake was DC fualt.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:39 am
I’m sure the team is checking out the Grady Jackson opportunity. Run stopping sure would help as the offense continues to struggle.
I’ve posted my support for AW as the QB, but if JR is reasonably ready, he should play. He offers the best chance to win with his mobility and his arm. The team may be protecting him till the running game can get back on track. Maybe M Bush can help push the pile.
Thats my pile pushing for today.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:40 am
KD …you are soooooooooooooooooooooooooo right …cross you fingers ..Im a home town kinda gut ..I like Edwards who was drafted by the Bills…but I truly hope this works with JR ..if it doesnt it will set us back years to come like ALEX SMITH, Akili Smith, Tim Couch…..Michael Vick, Ryan Leaf etc……. ….wow keep your fingers crossed ..:) …
October 24th, 2007 at 9:49 am
you all criticize DC like he has been playing and not been away from the game. and like i said JM couldnt win the starting job on two other teams, but he starts with us. the only reason he was starting at the beginning of the season is because “Kiffin chose McCown based on his knowledge of the system.”
reason being he was there at the start of camp. had we signed DC way before then, you know he would have been the starter from the get go.
but enough with that crap.
mid season we will be 4-4 and back at .500 and yall will be singing a different tune.
October 24th, 2007 at 9:50 am
KD …not just because you agreed with me on the Pepp pass… but because you are an informed fan alot like I am ….i have to say you bring commen sense to the blog …I appreciate that………JR has excellent touch , moxy and the make up of a leader …he had three O- coordinators while at LSU and he flourished with all of them… I have to say i believe in the kid ..we cant all win superbowls although thats our ultimate goal …I manely want a team i can watch cheer for and take my kids to see…we were blessed to have Gannon and those guys take us to the superbowl ….hell i was blesses to see and be part of all four superbowl appearances……….
Just Win Kiff………FYI i didnt notice Curry wasnt looking …but i do know… the drops were as a result of the hit he took earlier…Im willing to cut the dude some slack after taking a hit like that ….after all hes our best receiver…..
October 24th, 2007 at 9:50 am
I just read that Zack Crockett was cut by the Bucs yesterday. That didn’t last long. I wonder if someone else will pick him up. We could have used the old Zack Crockett in that 4th and 1 on Sunday. He was always good for a yard in a tough spot. I still think that they should have play actioned on that 4th and 1 but whatever…
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
October 24th, 2007 at 9:52 am
I still say we draft a Wide Receiver in 08′ maybe D. Jackson from Cal or Bennett from Vandy. Or possibly pick one up through FA. Our wide outs are not very good. Curry is our best WR and he was dropping balls all day against the chiefs. The only guy that thinks Prter is a great wide receiver is Prter. He SUCKS!! I know we need a SS to replace Schweigert, but to tell you truth, I believe we need a Wide Reciever to extend the field for JR, more than a defensive player. Im not sure Bush will ever be ready!! He has been clamouring that he’s ready to come in, but Kiffen or the Raider brain trust must think that he’s far from healthy. If the guy really broke his leg like if it were a #2pencil and 2 screws had to be inserted to keep it in place, im not sure if he will ever be ready!! I would love to see him on the field………The guy was AWESOME in Louieville!!!
October 24th, 2007 at 9:55 am
ljc -
The Raiders have been to 5 Super Bowls, not 4. Just thought that you should know.
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
October 24th, 2007 at 10:00 am
hahahaaha true ..i didnt count the green bay loss …that was before my time homie……
October 24th, 2007 at 10:02 am
How come everyone is comparing Daunte’s last two games and not last three games. If you are going to point out his performance against two top twelve defenses, count the crappy defense, too. 5 TDs, no turnovers, offensive player of the week. If Daunte had been the starter from the get-go and put up stats against the sorry-ass Lions and Browns, we would not be having this discussion. We would be 4-2 or 5-1 if Curry doesn’t drop the sure TD pass last week. Culpepper is the man, let him shake off the rust and hopefully get enough protection to fire that cannon this week. And hopefully the receivers use some stick ‘em.
October 24th, 2007 at 10:02 am
i dont know about crockett converting on 4th an 1 raider dogg, the blocking clearly wasnt there and they stuffed the line pretty good. a playaction fake would have worked sweet there like it did against the dolts for the score. they were expecting the run big time but who knows.
true on curry though, he was probably hearing footsteps after that big hit.
October 24th, 2007 at 10:04 am
P.S. McCown is a good guy and a solid backup. Period.
October 24th, 2007 at 10:05 am
Right now I’m torn between drafting a DT or WR. I know we need a saftey but a bad ass DT with Warren and (crossing my fingers) resigning Burgess will protect Stu’s average play. I like Sapp, but I think with Warren in the mix, this is Sapp’s last year with us. As for Bush, dam I hope he makes a full recovery and they let us watch him play this year. Back to receivers, weed serious help. #15, forgot name, oh yea, Higgins looks like shit. I loved Curry in the slot. Where is Miller up the seam, 8 in the box right. IDK
October 24th, 2007 at 10:06 am
take a look at this ..Rhodes, Mike bush , Miller , JR, …..and a stud WR w/ Curry …….its a process fellas …its a process….its coming … the league better take note….you have to embrace the process…the cowboys in the 90’s came abt the same way ..under the Radar………………
October 24th, 2007 at 10:06 am
Matt - to your point. the Titans have the 6th ranked D. What should we expect this week?
October 24th, 2007 at 10:09 am
To dress n/b…An upset!! lol
October 24th, 2007 at 10:10 am
The only game that I feel we were not in this season, was VS. San Diego. We were in all the other games and actually led them all except for SD in the 4th Quarter. We could have actually been 5-1 right now, but thats only wishful thinking. With that said, I projected us being 3-4 after the game Vs. the Titans!! It’s going to be tough, but on any given sunday, anyone can win. If V. Young is not completly healthy, I like our chances. Especially against Collins!! We can still get back in this if we can win in Tenn. Let’s not throw the towel in just yet. But if we dont win a game in Oct. or Nov., i say bring in JaMarcus!!!
October 24th, 2007 at 10:11 am
ljc -
A little before my time too bro. I wish I was alive and able to watch the earlier Raiders teams, but I have purchased every one of their Super Bowl victories on DVD. I didn’t bother to get the losses obviously.
South Texas -
I know that we should have play-actioned on that 4th and 1, I was just remembering the good old days when Crockett would move the pile and get a 1 yard td. I used to love that play, I forget what Gru used to call it. The defense knew it was coming and Crockett would still get it done. Those were the days. I like Justin Griffith a lot and I would take his overall skill set over a one dimensional player any day, I just wish we still had that kind of punch.
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
October 24th, 2007 at 10:11 am
KD - I hope so!
October 24th, 2007 at 10:13 am
Unfortunately, p