Cooper has torn ACL
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Monday, November 26th, 2007 at 4:53 pm in Oakland Raiders.
News, notes and observations from Monday’s press conference and open locker room session the day after a 20-17 win over the Kansas City Chiefs:
– Coach Lane Kiffin was going to wait until he sees the MRI before releasing the information, but the word in the Raiders locker room is that Jarrod Cooper has a torn ACL and is out for the season.
“He’s getting an MRI today to make sure all the cartilage and ligaments are in place,” safety Stuart Schweigert said.
Teammate Isaiah Ekejiuba, who aggravated a right foot injury which cost him the first four games of the season, vowed to return to face Denver to help pick up the slack.
“I’m playing this weekend and you can quote me on that,” Ekejiuba said. “With my captain going down like that, I’m going to play this weekend.”
– The Raiders had their first “Victory Monday” of the season, with players getting the day off except those who needed to come in for injury treatment. The Raiders did not get the day off after holding on to beat Cleveland in Week 3. A Week 4 win over Miami preceeded a bye, with the club not having a scheduled practice on Monday anyway.
– The Raiders special teams did nothing spectacular, unless you count a 54-yard field goal by Sebastian Janikowski that seems to be routine of late, but they held together well considering they were down in numbers.
Ekejiuba was out, Cooper left the game in the first quarter, linebacker Jon Alston left with an unspecified head injury (he is expected to face Denver), and Schweigert missed the first game of his professional career with a calf injury and the after effects of a bout with food poisoning.
Special teams coach Brian Scheneider was forced to improvise, with players like John Madsen, Oren O’Neal and Zach Miller taking on added or new responsibilities within the four special teams.
“It was a lot of new people that stepped up and did a great job for us, so it was good to see,” Ekejiuba said.
– Schweigert, Ekejiuba and backup center Jake Grove, who missed the last two games with a knee injury, all said they expect to play against Denver. Kiffin was withholding judgement _ publicly, anyway _ until Wednesday.
Players tend to say they can play even when they can’t. Coaches would rather the issue stay muddled as long as possible. The best indicator will come from who practices and who doesn’t.
– Kiffin committed to Daunte Culpepper as his starter Sunday. He said he hasn’t determined whether Josh McCown or JaMarcus Russell will be the backup.
If Russell is the backup, and game circumstances allow it, the first overall pick in the NFL draft could make his debut for a series or three against Denver.
– No reason to make excuses for being gouged for 150 yards on 31 carries by a rookie fifth-round draft pick making his debut as a starter. Kolby Smith was just the latest a string of eight running backs who has gone for 100 yards or more against the Raiders.
“We don’t accept it by any means,” Kiffin said. “This is an offense that was 31st in rushing coming into that game. Priest Holmes had averaged three yards a carry. Larry Johnson was 3.5 . . . sometimes we make strides and we fall back. We’re going to have to be on it this week because here comes a very good running team (in Denver).”
– True, it’s hard to judge the skill of back against the Raiders, but Smith looked like a keeper. He made some excellent, instinctive runs when the Raiders had initially stacked him up in the back field.
– Wide receiver Jerry Porter was wearing an ice bag on his left shoulder and feeling the affects of taking a beating. Porter caught three balls for 75 yards. He was hit hard after at least two of the catches, both times rising slowly.
Earlier, Porter made a one-handed catch which was one of the best of his career.
“Kept hitting the ground. Kept getting my bell rung. Kept getting dirt in my eyes,” Porter said.
When asked if any problem had been diagnosed with his shoulder or if he was just sore, Porter, playing multiple choice, answered, “B.”
– Both Porter and Curry are showing the effects of taking a lot of hard shots in addition to their blocking responsibilities, which Kiffin said are more demanding than most teams. They will continue to get practice breaks to keep them fresh.
“They’re pretty worn down after games so we have to make sure we watch them during the week,” Kiffin said.
– OK, so Mike Shanahan got over on the Raiders with his time out ploy, foiling Janikowski’s 52-yard field goal attempt in Week 2 with the next one hitting the upright.
Score one for the Raiders Sunday, who may have baited the Broncos into kicking to Chicago’s Devin Hester. Hester killed the Broncos by returning a kickoff and a punt for a touchdown. Kiffin didn’t want to touch the question about whether the Denver may have taken a cue from Oakland, who bottled up Hester on both kickoffs and punts.
Ekejiuba, however, said Cooper had forecasted that someone else would pay for what the Raiders were able to accomplish.
“He said, `You know what’s going to happen? Somebody’s going to say the Raiders kicked it to him so let’s kick to him, too, and he’s going to score on them,’ ” Ekejiuba said. “It’s a good feeling for us because we contained this guy and he went off on somebody else, a division rival, somebody we’re going to play next week.”
– Kiffin again addressed the demise of the AFC West streak.
“There are people in this building who ahd been trhough the 17 straight division losses, nine straight losses to Kansas City. It felt (like) forever for the people who (were here). For us that were new, it felt like we hadn’t won a division game in forever and it had been three.”
Kiffin said Monday he was glad we’d have something else to write about.
It’s been a disappointing year at 3-8, but the Raiders in Week 3 snapped an 11-game losing streak dating back to last season, a 12-game road losing streak in Week 4 which went back to 2005, and a 17-game AFC West losing streak and a nine-game losing streak to Kansas City, both on Sunday.
Ah, but another streak and a mini-streak await. The Raiders have not beaten an AFC West team at home since Sept. 28, 2003, when they edged the San Diego Chargers 34-31 in overtime. Since then, it has been 12 straight losses.
The Broncos have won the last five overall against the Raiders.
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November 26th, 2007 at 5:04 pm
GO RAIDERS!!!!
thanks Jerry, try not to keep me waiting this long next time!! lol
November 26th, 2007 at 5:04 pm
Sorry - I posted this on the previous thread 420:
Terrapin Says:
November 26th, 2007 at 5:02 pm
All I can say is that s.o.b. beat my Terps. I’m still not happy about that. I only saw Howie’s kid play that 1 game and he was a difference maker - a playmaker. Without him in the game we would’ve won.
With that said, my initial impressions are that he’ll be a great pick up. We don’t really need a DE right now w/ Burgess, Clemons, Kelly (?), and JRich but Long is hard to pass up. He prob could be better than all of them. Burgess will be getting older and older afterall. Do we resign him w/ Long on the roster? + Long did some good things vs the run against my Terps. He was a force.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:19 pm
sad to hear about Cooper…he is a monster on ST’s.
Huge win in KC and I’m just going to sit back and enjoy it for a while. I’m not sure that th Raiders will win many more games this year, but they have proven they will compete in every game. If they can make some more 4Q plays like they did in KC they could surprise some playoff bound teams. Enjoy the win Nation…a win in KC no matter what the record or year is a thing to cherish.
Lets continue the momentum and get ready for Denver. The Raiders owe them for stealing Kif’s first victory away in Sept.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:19 pm
Lets go Raiders… two straight against the AFC West!!!
November 26th, 2007 at 5:19 pm
lol, I thought your feelings were close to that….
hey oakglenn, it’s 4:19, got a minute?….lol
November 26th, 2007 at 5:22 pm
Hey terp,
you have to agree though that the having Howie’s kid in the roster would be a sweet thing… call me a dreamer, but imagine if Monte decides do come coach with his son as well….oh man, what a family affair it would be!…. if only dreams could become true….lol
November 26th, 2007 at 5:23 pm
But I don’t think that kid is going to be available. If we continue to play like we played vs KC , we won’t be drafting low enough.
Bad news about Coop - damn good teamer - but these boys held up well in Coops and IE’s absense. Hopefully they continue to step up and STs doesn’t become a problem again with Coop and IE out.
Screw Denver any way possible.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:24 pm
Crap, the Special Teams will definitely miss Coop. That guy plays with fire and intensity which the rest of the ST seems to feed off of.
This is the year we exorcise the demons from the last 4+ years. The Raiders are coming together and will spoil at least one teams playoff hopes before all is said and done. Lets start with Denver! I would jump for joy to see Shanarat crying on the sidelines at the House Of Thrills! Does anyone know if it is near a sellout?
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
November 26th, 2007 at 5:26 pm
House Of Thrills = H.O.T. (HOT BABY!) which is what the Raiders will be for the next 5 games!….lol
November 26th, 2007 at 5:28 pm
Im not a big Porter fan. The guy has always come off as a primadona. I have to give him his props he showed up last Sunday. That catch on the sideline was sick. The guy just needs to become more consistent. We have two descent posession receivers, but we need a burner.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:28 pm
Terrapin - If there is a big name DT in free agency…You go for him. I wouldn’t be mad if we drafted a DT like Dorsey or Ellis as well if the opportunity presented itself. Or…sign a DT in FA and then draft Long if possible. Can you imagine how much better that defensive line could become with just a few moves? As far as the offensive line goes…You have to go FA. We need instant success. Sims is hot and cold. We need a guy who is more consistent. I think Gallery has been a success at RG is is steadily improving. Newberry has been great but will he hold? Carlisle has been great. The RT position is in flux. We really need to address the tackle positions and a rookie “usually” doesn’t produce effectively right away. Is anybody really good enough to draft in the early part of round 1 that you can feel comfortable with? I believe that veterans can give us an instant impact o-line. These guys can run block…we just need some pass protection.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:29 pm
RaiderDogg,
Thanks for taking on the troll. These no name posters come over win or lose and flap their stupid gums of hatred.
All troll have one thing in common, raider hatred.
It’s a situation that can be changed with drugs and therapy, which they don’t want, they would rather stay miserable.
Their weak pathetic humans, with no value or decency.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:30 pm
Just our Raiders luck - watch our offense start clicking just as our special teams start dragging because of injuries…..lol hopefully not.
Raiders will win this one. I said it before, and I will keep saying it like a broken record, Kiff will have this team much better prepared against our division rivals this second time around. He gameplans much better once he has experienced the opponent before.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:30 pm
Just win baby!
November 26th, 2007 at 5:32 pm
Still can not get over the five losses the Raiders had with leads going into
the last ten minutes 8-3 would be nice…. still progress from the last three years is great
Another strong effort is necessary against Denver to start a new streak
Chas
November 26th, 2007 at 5:33 pm
The shoe is on the other foot with Stu. His play @ safety has been making us all sick all season long.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:37 pm
Can we start an “I hate Denver” post rally? Give at least one reason why you hate the Donks! I start:
I hate the Donks because:
- of Shannanigans and his silly smirk that looks like somebody is doing a root canal in his ass.
- of Allison B.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:41 pm
Hey Raider Dell -
I usually try not to even acknowledge a troll’s existence, but every once in a while I will speak up against these troll idiots.
Did you have a good holiday? My holiday weekend was complete with a Raider Victory! Man that was sweet. Hey I bought a new burner and I have a copy of that Mule show you and your son were at. Send me an e-mail address, maybe a neutral one that you don’t really care about so trolls don’t flood your regular e-mail account. Create a new yahoo or hotmail address and I will send you a copy of your sons birthday show. Same goes for anyone else that enjoys Mule and needs the hook up.
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
November 26th, 2007 at 5:45 pm
Hey Raiderdogg, I’m sure that it’s just me and my perverted mind, but that “mule show” you’re talking about sure sounds dirty…..LOL…
November 26th, 2007 at 5:47 pm
Not a Raiders subject but did you guys hear about Sean Taylor? That guy is one of the best safetys in the game and has that Raider Mystique about him. The guy is in critical condition after being shot in the leg in his own home and hes lost alot of blood. My prayers go out to him and his family.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:47 pm
Raider420 -
It was amazing. I never knew a Mule could do such things…
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
November 26th, 2007 at 5:48 pm
“Can you imagine how much better that defensive line could become with just a few moves?” - Sometimes thats all it takes. Give us one DT or SS (maybe not if Huff continues to improve) and viola - problem could be solved.
re: Big O - like I wrote on the last blog …Kiffin’s draft is producing 4-5 starters or potential starters (zm, oo, jr, mb and jrich). I consider that a damn good draft.
I’m not sure whats out there now bro. Really haven’t looked too much into it - but I no for sure that I’m no expert. But I’m like you in the Oline thinking. We need good, established, consistent vets on the line NOW. We can draft Olinemen to groom behind them in later rounds.
I posted before what I believe Kiffins step-by-step plan is for this Offense. In short: 1st step was to establish the run - acquired zm, oo, jg, newberry, cc - all good blockers - accomplished - this line can run block. The next step is to upgrade the linemen with better pass blockers who could also run block. Then we will see the O open up w/ WRs going deeper more often.
Preference - 1. Dlineman 2.LT 3. RT/C (Newberry won’t last and I’m not sure whats up w/ Grove?) …maybe Henderson fills LT or we get by 1 more year.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:49 pm
RaiderDogg,
Had a great Holiday also, food, family and blues.
I will find a e-mail address and let you know, and thanks.
I will be at the HOT on Sunday.
Payback is going to be fun.
I think JR will get a few reps. I have a good gut feeling on this.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:49 pm
Huff24
I heard about Taylor. He was shot in the femoral artery, thats why he lost so much blood. Straight up home burglary too, no thug sh!t at all. It’s a crazy world that we live in.
Nice posts lately btw.
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
November 26th, 2007 at 5:50 pm
I heard about that this morning… you would think he lived in Oakland…lol
no just kidding, sorry, this is a subject that shouldn’t be made fun of. It is very sad. Was anything stolen from his home? Or does anybody know what was it related to if anything? Or if it was a just a random robbery?….
November 26th, 2007 at 5:51 pm
Correction: “maybe Henderson fills LT or we get by 1 more year.” - That should be RT.
+ we need to throw a damn good WR somewhere in there too - give JR another weapon.
November 26th, 2007 at 5:54 pm
If Higgins doesn’t pan out, we should trade for a quality veteran WR, or get one in FA. I believe we went over the list a few weeks ago of who will be available…
November 26th, 2007 at 5:59 pm
I hate the Broncos and there “Mile High” home field advantage.
I hate Pat Bowlen and his cushy relationship with the NFL.
I hate the Orange Crush.
I hate Tom Jackson, Mark Schlereth and their Bronco bias.
I hate Shanahan.
I hate the Denver Broncos with a passion.
November 26th, 2007 at 6:01 pm
RaiderDogg - My brother told me this so I don’t know how accurate it is…Supposedly…8 days before this incident with Sean Taylor, someone had broken into his home, stole something small and a knife was left on the bed. If that is true…I’m confused as to why nothing was done to protect himself and his home for anything else. He didn’t have guard dogs or any type of security system. With his money…I would have secured my home better with that kind of threat. He should have at least had a gun in his possession but I don’t know all the specifics so I guess I can’t really say. Either way…the situation sucks.
November 26th, 2007 at 6:02 pm
ALRIGHT JJVILL!!!
WE HATE DENVER!!!!
November 26th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
Too bad about Cooper. He was the man on special teams.
I have a gut feeling JaMarcus will be the No. 2 QB this week. It’s high time for that step.
November 26th, 2007 at 6:06 pm
Terrapin - Heres another good problem that we have. Would you say that Porter and Curry are starting to get familiar with the system and comfortable in their roles? I trust Curry and his ability but I’m stunned by the consistent drops. He used to be very reliable. It took Porter awhile but it seems like hes putting more effort into the games as of late. We don’t have alot of WR’s on this roster and it would be hard to start completely fresh. Do you think we should keep these 2 guys and just add someone else to compliment them instead of replacing Porter altogether? Add a couple of offensive tackles and another solid WR and we have a real offense for next year. Add a couple defensive lineman and a true FS or a SS who can move Huff to FS and we’re much improved. We seem to be set at all the other positions if we want to be conservative and just improve the NEEDED positions. Some other positions who could use some better talent can wait I think such as Strong Outside Linebacker, which can done through the draft.
November 26th, 2007 at 6:23 pm
Alright ya’ll, I’m out! Let’s keep that “We hate Denver” posts going all week!
I hate denver because:
- they have the name of a fine tuned american car…I love Ford Broncos, but hate the Denver Broncos….. I bet that’s why Ford stopped making them….lol
Alright, peace out my brethren… the nation will rise again!
November 26th, 2007 at 6:32 pm
Curry’s & Porters involvement has more to do w/ the QB play and the Oline not being a good pass blocking Oline.
Whether or not we keep both? We’ll keep Curry and JLH (some WRs take time to develop).
Keeping Porter depends on if we need Porters money and will he want to opt out. Common sense would tell him that he’ll never see that kinda money anywhere else. We have the leverage there - force him into lower $$$ if we still want him. He has not performed to his contract. He’s gettin paid more than Curry - go figure. He’s too inconsistent and has been forever. I won’t really miss him.
November 26th, 2007 at 6:34 pm
thanks Jerry,
Lets put a beat-down on the donkeys…..we can do that…..now
November 26th, 2007 at 6:34 pm
Way to go Raiders!!! dont care about those NON FAITHFUL RAIDER “FANS” this is a win to remember because it gives HOPE…
Still have to improve a whole world to be contenders… but damn it just feels great to be a Raider Fan!!!!
BETTER DEAD THAN OUT!!!!!!!
GO RAIDERS
November 26th, 2007 at 6:38 pm
That was such a great win, we needed it real bad. All of the things that have been done to us in the closing seconds of a game this year we did to KC today.
We stopped them on 4th down and that was huge but the 3rd down run by Fargus may be the turning point in our season and in Kiffins coaching career.
On another note the Bronco’s punter tried to copy us and said that they are not afraid of Hester and they are going to kick to him. The result was 2 Hester TD’s in that game. Our special teams shut Hester down and Coach knew that our special teams were better and he challenged them. In this very blog people said that was stupid and called for Kiffins head.
Our special teams are better than the bronco’s. Kiffin seeing the same teams for a second time in a year gives us a good idea of his coaching skills and I think he is right on track.
RaiderDogg and Raider Dell great posts and I love the Mule talk in this blog!
November 26th, 2007 at 6:40 pm
I did not get to see coop’s hit but an acl tear sucks but he should rehab well and have
him back for next year. Nice to hear IE’s comments about playing against Denver since
his captain is down. Budding leaders in the locker room and playing for most of the
game are more signs of Kiff’s work for those that needed some. More consistent play
gets results like the oline play this weekend. However, its interesting that most of the
big runs were to the right (P mcquist and bsimms) where most other teams run off their
LT. But our left side is definitely not consistently dominant.
I also believe that we potentially have more games to win and Kiff will provide situations
to put our player to win. So lets cont to enjoy this win and wait until Jan to worry about
the draft.
Also on a unrelated subject, RANDY, candy A,moss finally got called for the many push offs
that usually do not get called. And while rooting for the eagles noticed that challenging
moss at the line and one good hit (that caused him to drop a pass) pretty much neutralized
him. Although they were doubling covering him alot.
November 26th, 2007 at 6:40 pm
Great Job Jerry……I hate the DONKEYS With PASSION! Im flying to OAK this weekend
to see my silver and black kick some ass…..We are on a roll….
RAIDER FOR LIFE…………..I am IN…………………….
November 26th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
Raider Fan In Dallas….
and all the fans that will be in the house of thrills….
MAKE SOME NOISE THIS WEEKEND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lets ride some donks!
November 26th, 2007 at 6:49 pm
Oh yeah why I hate the Bronco’s
Because Al Davis went to sleep one night, thinking he had Elway convinced to be a Raider only to find out the next day the Donkeys signed him.
Because Shannarat still complains about the money Big Al supposedly owes him.
Because Tom Jackson’s mouth and the Albino Rhino’s pass rush.
Because now I have to listen to Shannon Sharpe on Sunday mornings run his mouth, I still can’t understand what he is saying?
The only good thing to ever come from Denver is Lyle Alzado
November 26th, 2007 at 6:52 pm
Great article on CHRIS LONG in ESPN the mag…
Al Groh compared him to Lawrence Taylor.
November 26th, 2007 at 6:53 pm
Wow Huff24
I hadn’t heard any of that about Taylor. Sounds like this isn’t just a random incident. Thanks for the inside info. Prayers go out to that guy, I like his playing style and wish the Raiders had a Sean Taylor of their own.
I hate the Bronco’s because:
- It’s my instinct to do so
- Shanarat uses a lie detector because he is the second coming of Hitler
- their fans really annoy the hell out of me
- that stupid “Mile High Salute”
- John Elway and the fact that he can eat an apple through a chain link fence!
There are many more reasons, but too many to list.
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
November 26th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
Terp:
Any thoughts on Darren McFadden joining the Raider backfield next season?
He tore up LSU!
November 26th, 2007 at 7:03 pm
Shannon Sharpe is another guy that can eat an apple through a chain link fence.
What up SNB666.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:04 pm
you just had to bring up another bad streak. oh well. we’ll break this streak too. thanks for the update Jerry.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:05 pm
Profootballtalk.com has a full and complete breakdown on everything Sean Taylor for all who want to stay updated.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:11 pm
Mike Tomlin is the 3rd Steeler coach in 40years? Wow, that’s a stable organization, even though Art Rooney, Al’s contemporary resigned years ago.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:23 pm
I know there’s some talk about the win ruining the chances to get xxx player at the top of the draft (Darren McFadden mentioned most often, I think). I am a huge draftnick and would love a high pick, but to me its a huge mistake for people to think that way. Even though the season’s shot, winning games is hugely important for the Raiders. It doesn’t matter who we draft, this culture of losing is going to make us keep losing until we break it (and I disagree that a dead Al Davis is the answer; a devil you know is better than one you don’t, and for all his faults Al Davis is the greatest Devil ever, but that’s a whole other topic).
My point is you don’t know what’s going to happen between now and the draft. Try to win games and take the best player available wherever we end up picking. I’m sure fans of teams in our situation were lamenting last year that by winning a game, now they won’t be in a position to get Brady Quinn or whomever. I’m sure Cleveland fas were saying, if only we could keep losing we’d get Quinn. You just never know. Quinn ended up being available late in the first. There’s no guarantee that any of the top prospects now will be top prospects then.
hell, Sean Taylor got shot and is in critical condition. Anything can happen in life. You start wishing the Raiders lose every game so you can get McFadden, then he’ll get run over by a bus crossing the street two weeks before the draft.
So I say, just win baby.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:25 pm
According to PFT.com…Mike Williams joined the Titans at a weight of 271 lbs. Now I can see why Kiffin gave up on this guy. When Kiffin said the team could eat donuts, Mike Williams took it literally and evidently didn’t stop. He worked out for the Titans 2 weeks earlier and weighed 11 lbs less.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:25 pm
I think the Raiders should take Chris Long. He’s a Jared Allen type lineman. Great technique, great athleticism to rush the passer, big and strong to stop the run and a strong motor that helps them make plays all over the field. Plus you’ve gotta love the Howie Long connection.
McFadden is good. He reminds me a little of Marcus Allen with his long stride, gliding style. He would be an exciting addition to an offense that needs more big-play playmakers. However, investing a huge contract in a top-10 RB pick is a bit of a gamble. Injuries and busts are pretty common at the position. If a guy gets hurt, you still have that salary eating up cap space.
That said, I’d be happy with either guy. O-Line and stopping the run are the biggest needs right now and I’d rather not spend a top pick on an o-lineman after seeing how the “can’t-miss” prospect Gallery has performed. I don’t think any of the top linemen in this class are rated as high as Gallery was. I think Long is the pick, but if the Patriots pick in front of us (with the 49ers pick) I would expect them to take C. Long — all the more reason to get him, IMO.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:27 pm
It was great to see Shannon Sharpe face when Tony Gonzales broke the tight end touchdown record. He always claimed he was the best tight end in football, next up to pass Shannon Antonio Gates and will pass Gonzales soon.
Shannon Sharpe always wrong, never stops talking, about nothing.
Ex Denver player , go figure.
Why I hate the Broncos,
1. Every time it’s brought up Al owes shanyydipp money.
2. Al firing him 6 games in the season.
3. Shannydipp looks when he loses.
4. shannydipp is so overated.
5. Shannydipp firing coordinators like their bed sheet changes.
6. Barrell man is cool though.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:28 pm
Thats an excellent point KoolKell, but the Steelers are more the exception to the rule in this day and age. High coaching turnover is pretty common and the Steelers are definitely a model organization when it comes to staff and philosophical consistency. Doesn’t the Rooney family still own the Steelers?
It’s hard not to envy that kind of stability. It’s funny to think that Jeff Fisher is the longest tenured coach in the NFL. It seems like it was a year or two ago when he was one of the youngest, newest coaches in the NFL and now he is the longest tenured? Long gone are the days of the Don Shula’s and the Tom Landry’s…
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
November 26th, 2007 at 7:30 pm
SNB666,
Thanks for the posts.
Hope all is well.
Keep the faith bro.
We will always be IN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 26th, 2007 at 7:36 pm
SICKK - Well said. The reality is and this is regardless of what has happened in the past. When an owner hires a coach…he has expectations, the coach has expectations and the players have expectations. Everyone wants Kiffin to succeed and to turn this thing around. Losing isn’t going to help us with that problem. The whole reason that Kiffin is here in the first place is to put wins on the table…not draft #1 picks all the time. We’ve gone down that road before and we’re trying to pull ourselves out of that pattern. Picking #1 is not a good thing because that means the team is the worst in the league. Well…I don’t want to be the worst team in the league. There is always going to be quality players available and sometimes you get a gem…sometimes you don’t and it really doesn’t matter where you pick because a gem can be found through the rubble. When you start to win, players want to stay and other players want to join the party. When that happens, you begin to succeed. No one player is bigger than the whole team and when the team believes that…they begin to win on a more consistent basis. Al Davis and Lane Kiffin want nothing more than to own the 32nd pick in the draft. They’re not concerned with #1’s and #2’s. If we want those…we will consistently end up with another HC and another headache. We need to win if we want consistency and that includes keeping Kiffin, keeping our current players happy, keeping people interested in joing us and so on.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:40 pm
Silver and Black 666 :::
Willie Brown came from the Broncos!
He was much better than me.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:40 pm
They are losing this week if Stu plays. He is a liablity and we will be 3-9. Remember Brien aka AlbDaRaiders said so. I started all the hoopla in the summer on many boards about Stugart and its comes true each time.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:45 pm
Hey Jerry, the Raiders snapped a 6 game losing streak, not an 11 gamer dating back to last year. Come on , man, we don’t need anymore help with the losses.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:53 pm
Quentin Moses just got a sack on Roethlisberger.
November 26th, 2007 at 7:55 pm
Love the blogs Jerry. Unless I misread the broken 12 game road losing streak, the victory over winless Miami should count. Culpepper looked great & we should hammer the donks come Sunday.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:01 pm
Huff24: you hit it right on the money when you said there are always going to be great players available. I think a lot of teams and fans think, we’ve got to get this guy, he’s the answer to our problems. But one guy is never the answer, and usually you end up hurting yourself. Look at SF, they had to have Joe Staley, so they give what will turn out to be a top-10 pick to New England. There you have it, Joe Staley. Not the answer. Or look at the NYG when they had to have Eli Manning. They gave up Phillip Rivers and the pick that brought the Chargers Shawne Merriman, plus more. The Giants could have traded DOWN and took Roethlesburger, added more picks, and had Merriman the next year. But they locked on the mindset that they had to have xxx player and now their watching opponents return picks for TDs all day long. The examples are endless.
Success in the draft doesn’t depend on where you pick, but on taking the best available player wherever you are on the draft board.
We’ll likely be picking top-10. Since we have holes at more than 10 positions, were sure to be able to get someone who can help.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:02 pm
halftime score 0-0. what a game that is…let me guess Pitts didn’t even bother to study hopeless Miami. 0-0 score?
November 26th, 2007 at 8:05 pm
Thinking about Miami ….Oakland rec’d a lot a flak last year …calling us the worst team in the history of football and all …but I’m not hearing the same criticism being thrown in Miami’s direction …why is that? At least we won 2 games. They may actually go winless. 0-16.
Thier record insofar indicates they are the worst team in Football history.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:08 pm
I almost forgot what it felt like to win. Remember when Gruden went into KC so long ago and kicked off the true ascent of the Raiders of our latest generation?
My 4 year old daughter hasn’t been alive since the raiders beat KC last.
And how is this for a reason (or twoO to hate the Buncoos? ED McCAFFERY and his BS pass interference calls that he would bait from the refs. Or the John Elway pump fake that Lynch bit on for a TD late on the monday night at home?
November 26th, 2007 at 8:09 pm
Get well soon Coop, you’ll be missed.
I need another jersey with LONG on the back.
Still in
Go Raiders
November 26th, 2007 at 8:17 pm
Porter had an awesome game Sunday, with some amazing catches, but how often does he do that 2 games in a row?? Porter does have a history of doing well against the Broncos, so this week will be very telling whether he’s finally going to be a consistent contributor at our #1 WR spot. He already has some nick-nack injuries as excuses to have a letdown.
SeaBass needs to continue his hot-streak this week as well. I’ll be there screaming my lungs out!!
Get well Coop!
Stay hurt Stu!
November 26th, 2007 at 8:24 pm
One more reason I hate the Broncos:
Because they are the Broncos…plain and simple. I just hate their donkey assess…
oh, but somebody else said it, barrell man IS cool… he just needs to wear a black barrell with some silver stripes and he’ll be HELLA cool….lol
November 26th, 2007 at 8:30 pm
Sad about Sean Taylor.
CNN reported that Bill Belichick was seen running from his home.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:33 pm
raiders 23 donks 13
November 26th, 2007 at 8:34 pm
Watching shanahans veins pop out of his head that last 5mins of the chicago game was great desert after the raider game, i though the guys eye was gona pop right out of his head lol
November 26th, 2007 at 8:36 pm
ALZADO RAIDER Good point about Old Man Willie
I stand corrected he was a great Raider also that came from Bronco land.
Kirk thats funny as hell!
November 26th, 2007 at 8:41 pm
Terp…
You are right, while I´m the first to admit last year’s teams was awful and even embarrasing, at this point in the season we already had 2 wins and 2 close losses.
But these Miami team is probably as bad, if only slightly better coached, specially on D with Capers and of course, anyone is better than Tom Walsh.
But wait, imagine if it had been the Raiders who somehow brought Ricky Williams back at that point?…oh man, simply put, they would have killed us, well even more.
But it just goes to show you how much people in the media love to hate us, and hey how sweet is it gonna be when we turn this thing around an they have to praise us uh?.
November 26th, 2007 at 8:45 pm
I hated Bill Romanowski until he strapped on the Silver and Black. I never fully appreciated his skills and “demeanor” until he was a Raider.
Shanarat’s new line of Tanning Salons are failing miserably so now he is selling lie detectors to supplement his income until Big Al pays him the money that he “owes” him.
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
November 26th, 2007 at 9:00 pm
why i HATE THE BRONCOS= 1977 playoff game, the fumble that was not ruled a fumble, costing the raiders a return tripp to the super bowl. also tom the fat man jackson, couldnt shut his mouth then can not shut it now. mike shanahan, hate him.
raiders for life
November 26th, 2007 at 9:08 pm
We should start a favorite RAIDER memory involving the donkeys and I’ll start it by saying my favorite memory of the donkeys is when some fan threw a battery from the stands and hit shanarat in the back of the head.
November 26th, 2007 at 9:10 pm
Amazing, no talk about Russell? No fire Kiffin talk?
For the past several weeks several of the people posting have consistently talked about how horrible we’ve been, how much Russell needs to play, and about the lack of playing by Kiffin.
Some out there are like me who have been consistent in keeping up with the tradition and waiting for Kiffin to SLOWLY turn this thing around. Of course we want instant gratification, but ANY improvement after last season is satisfying at this moment in time.
Playing Hiram over Schweigert (food sickness or not) was awesome, especially when Eugene was able to tackle smith when he was the last man. Stu would’ve choked again.
Kiffin will continually improve this team. All it takes is patience. Let him get his players, weed out the sh*tty ones who detract from us and eventually we’ll be a good team every week.
There’s no need to complain during the bad times as we all know how you feel, however stay positive as there’s an obvious change occurring within this team right now.
Kiffin was obviously the right choice and eventually everyone won’t have much negative to say when JRuss is starting behind a beast of an O line, Zach Miller can get away from blocking and open up the passing game, Fargas and Bush are lighting up the running game, and our WR’s getting free.
As for our D, well we need 3 players DT, DE, FS to become solid again.
Keep your heads up, Kiffin is on the right path and we will be great again…. soon.
November 26th, 2007 at 9:19 pm
Jeremy, we all want to Jamarcus. Don’t act like you don’t…We’re Raiders fans…we’re used to hating on our team. Kiffin’s got us going, though, for sure.
I hate Denver for all the reasons everyone’s written about plus I’m sick of seeing Barrel Man’s nipples on national television. Someone needs to buy that MF a shirt. In fact, Al should consider paying Ratty-rat that money if he’ll use it to cover that fat bastard up.
November 26th, 2007 at 9:20 pm
Some notes on the KC game;
- The rook Miller had a tough first half blocking and he fumbled, but he game back strong in the 2nd and made his biggest reception all year. Good to see.
- McQuistan had some penalties but played very well in his first start at RT. He paved some holes in the run game and pass blocked well. These next 5 games could see him win the RT position for next year.
- Porter played very tough…we need that every game from him.
- CPep has played very well the last two weeks. I think he is still re-learning how play since his knee injury. His body can’t do what he used to and he is figuring that out.
- Props to Fargas…never thought he would be the runner he looked like Sunday. I gladly admit I was wrong about this kid.
- Nice pick Huff…keep your feet and you would also have had your first TD.
- Big stop by Mo and Ho on 4th down…big time 4Q plays by O and D.
- Learning how to win? We will find out against Denver.
November 26th, 2007 at 9:20 pm
this is one boring game
November 26th, 2007 at 9:26 pm
DYNOMITE….
LOL….I had forgotten that…..
How about that time donkey fans in Mile High were throwing snownalls at us and Lincoln Kennedy actually punched a guy in the face when the game was over. And it was on tv too…..
For me that can´t be topped,
Here are bits about it from cnnsi.com and usa today…
Nov. 1999…………..”Oakland Raiders were pelted with snowballs, some spiked with batteries, at Denver’s Mile High Stadium. Charles Woodson allegedly threw a snowball that struck a female fan in the face, and Lincoln Kennedy went after a fan who hit him in the face with a snowball.”
Nov. 22, 1999 — ”Denver fans pelt Oakland offensive lineman Lincoln Kennedy with snowballs and batteries as he leaves the field. Kennedy goes into the stands to confront his assailants and punches one of them.”
Lived vicariuosly through Linc on that one……lol.
November 26th, 2007 at 9:28 pm
Ron Curry’s courage and capabilities may have helped Jerry Porter pick up his game.
Coach Kiffin is gaining confidence in his troops and we can only hope to see steady improvement this year and next. Thanks for picking up Dante this year and giving us and JaMarcus a better teacher with better quaterback experience to build on. He is a fine example of a pro athelete. Hope a second game against broncs brings us more relief from afc west misery.
Save the draft pick guesses for after the season…
Please Coach Kiff, give us a couple of series of rookie qb excitement!! Just make sure to kick some bronco dropping at shananahand… screw orange and blue, silver and black need to rule, again…
November 26th, 2007 at 9:29 pm
Honorable mention to C-Wood for splatting that lady´s mug too, I´m sure she was annoyning.
November 26th, 2007 at 9:37 pm
Bob Marley, thats some funny stuff man I remembered that incident as if it were yesterday. What do think would of happened if some donkeys would have invaded the black hole!!! lol Please don’t hold back.
November 26th, 2007 at 9:39 pm
Obviously we want to see Russell for series or two, but only if our O line keeps improving.
I’m very impressed with McQuistan at RT if only because he had far less penalties and did better than Green did in any game this season.
Hiram Eugene should start over Schweigert for the rest of the season.
I’m saying we should keep Fargas and start Bush along with him next season. Unless we end up with a chance for DMac, why bother with a RB?
Does anyone have any concrete evidence to Monte Kiffin’s contract at TB? From what I could find his contract was up in December ‘06 and couldn’t find any renewal?
November 26th, 2007 at 9:48 pm
I didn’t know Lane’s brother was a thief!
http://www.tampabays10.com/sports/article.aspx?storyid=36168
November 26th, 2007 at 9:54 pm
Y does every1 keep insisting on us drafting McFadden. We already have MB and JF. Thats gonna be our thunder and lightining for years to come. I mean McFadden gonna be good but to have him with our other two backs is gonna create another problem that we currently have. Kiffin already has three backs in Rhodes, Jordan and Fargas and he cannot supply every1 with equal amounts of carries so whats to say that he will with McFadden, bush and Fargas. If we do draft him then sum1 is gonna be the odd man out with the way Fargas is running it could very well as be MB b4 we even get a chance to see him play. IMO, were gonna be alrite with Bush and Fargas so we need to address elsewhere.
November 26th, 2007 at 10:04 pm
Jeremy- How certain are you about bush? when all he has done is run thru tires.
Cut jorden he is a tip toe dancer
Give Rhodes more reps see if He not overratted, like i’ve read so many times in here.
Keep Fargas but if only to put his Heart on display for the whole team to see!!!
November 26th, 2007 at 10:05 pm
most current reason for hating the Broncos: Mike Shanahan and ‘the timeout’
November 26th, 2007 at 10:09 pm
Mort said Monte was unsigned on NFL Countdown Sunday…Then he said “Wouldn’t it be interesting to see him with his son out in Oakland.” He didn’t offer any sources or anything (Other than he confirmed that Monte’s contract is up after this year), he said it like he was just speculating. But it was the first I’d heard of since PTI asked Sapp about it–jokingly–before the draft. Sapp said “one Kiffin is enough.”
November 26th, 2007 at 10:17 pm
Damn good tutelage for the young coach though? its hard to bust on Kiffin because of
his pedigree and the fact that he is somewhat honest with his thought process’ exp…
“deciding to be more aggresive this week durring crunch time”.
Bottom line its just a relief not have a coach that has a blank stair look on his face
24-7
November 26th, 2007 at 10:21 pm
Turn on Sportscenter!
They are saying that Lane Kiffin may be the next head coach of Arkansas!!!!!!
November 26th, 2007 at 10:27 pm
Terp, I’m a die-hard Raider fan and I suffered through the inept embarrassment that was 2006. I’ve seen a little of the Dolphins and I really don’t think they’re as bad as the Raiders were in 2006. The Raiders defense would probably rank as the best unit of the four, but that Raiders offense set all sorts of records for futility.
The Dolphins have actually been competitive in most of their games. Sorry to say it, but even if they go 0-16 they might not be quite as bad. I think you can make that argument. It’s kind of the same (only reverse) as saying the 15-1 1985 Bears were a better team than the 14-0 Dolphins team — which they clearly were.
November 26th, 2007 at 10:31 pm
Chris I agree. The now 0-11 fins are a waaay better team than last years 2-14 Raider team. What would you guys think of drafting D-line lst Rd, moving Asomougha to safety, with Routt and Washington on the corners, Carr and Bowie nickle and dime. That’s provided Routt and Washington continue to improve. JMHO
November 26th, 2007 at 10:31 pm
Hey newsflash part of what makes the Kiffens Pedigree what it is or I’ll simply say the
man he is, is loyalty dont worry if Al knowns whats good for this franchise he will double
any offer and stay the hell out of the way ala Grudden!!!
November 26th, 2007 at 10:39 pm
Chris
I´d say if you line them up it´s a tossup and a 3 point game.
These dolphins are averaging 7 pts a game their last 4. But hey, I´m not about to defend last year´s crap so I’ll leave it at that.
November 26th, 2007 at 10:43 pm
i hate the broncos because of their stupid, f’in, yupee fans. fleece and khaki-wearin, micro-beer-drinkin, SUV-drivin jerk-offs. i played college ball in montana…prime bronco country. i can honestly say, i’ve never met a bronco fan i could actually spend more than 5 minutes with!!
plus, they started the whole stupid mordern uniform thing that it seems everyone is doing…including my almamater.
worst uniforms in football…any level
November 26th, 2007 at 10:47 pm
except for oregon or maybe the bengals….yuck
November 26th, 2007 at 10:59 pm
Why do we hate the buncos??? 1) The Rob lidle fumble 2) Embarrasing the AFC West with all those horrible lop sided super bowl drubbings they took 3) That trippy weird gay elf that hangs in the end zone 4) snow balls since we don’t have snow to throw at them Is that enough or should I keep going???
November 26th, 2007 at 11:03 pm
Oakglenn, mostly solid stuff from you so far! Is there an Albert Hainsworth in the draft if not stick with a Mcfadden or trade down for multiples
November 26th, 2007 at 11:13 pm
We haven’t been able to stop the run in four years.
We need a defensive tackle first round in the draft.
November 26th, 2007 at 11:20 pm
Deep, whadya mean mostly?? just kidding. how’s about okam from Texas (big guy), Ellis from SC, kind of a Bryant young like player, or l’m liking Chris long from Virginia. i think long would help both the run defense and be an excellent pass rusher, helping an already good pass defense. JMHO.
November 26th, 2007 at 11:22 pm
kirk as much as i’m diggin’ the Howard/Morrison combo. Stuffing the run is
their responsibility
November 26th, 2007 at 11:23 pm
white-e just holdin us down
November 26th, 2007 at 11:25 pm
You know more than me, sounds good as long as dont have to make excuss’ for
these guys anymore. I’m out
November 26th, 2007 at 11:33 pm
Did anyone hear the Greg Papa interview on KNBR his morning. They asked him about MB and he said that MB was having a lot of other health issues as a result of that broken leg. He was having some type calf problems and other issues.
He also said that when he saw him practice he loked pretty slow. G. Papa said he wasnt surprise that they shut him down for the rest of the season.
November 26th, 2007 at 11:40 pm
Tay I reiterate my earlier point
Cut jorden he is a tip toe dancer
Give Rhodes more reps see if He not overratted, like i’ve read so many times in here.
Keep Fargas but if only to put his Heart on display for the whole team to see!!!
Damn this stuff is so ridiculously addicting Now I’m out for sure!!
November 26th, 2007 at 11:47 pm
we’re a good young DT, and a new, creative DC away from having a sublime defense. if i’ve said it once, i’ve said it a thousand times: we NEVER blitz!!! this last game would’ve been a perfect time to rattle a young quarterback. we were getting decent pressure with 4, imagine sending 5, or maybe even…gasp…..6 pash rushers. i’m not saying we should do it 30 times a game, but more than 2 would be nice.
November 27th, 2007 at 12:02 am
The best of linebackers have a great set of…..DT’s. Just ask Ray Lewis. He struggled when he lost 2 big men in the middle and was forced to fight off blocks and hes bigger than the guys we have. The offensive lines are blasting through our defensive tackles most of the time and its causing our linebackers fits. Its tough to stop the run when you have to get around a 300+ lb lineman running full steam at you. The day we put some playmakers at the DT position is the day you see Morrison and Howard flourish against the run. I guarentee it.
November 27th, 2007 at 12:13 am
Great Win!!
On offense we looked good with the QB and RB playing well as did the OL and Porter. Weneed to replace Curry with Higgins who provides speed once he grasps the system. TE is good and steadily improving. However our problems begin on D with the DL giving up way too many yds to backup and rookie RB’s. Teams simply are running up the middle so that’s where we start at with DT in FA or the best one in next yr’s draft. Our DE’s are playing OK as well as the LB;s and Cb’s Now as far as the Safety position goes we need a hitter/intimidator who can cover TE’s fairly well. Then we can move Huff to FS to take advantage of his ability to blitz as well as cover wideouts to strengthen our pass D. Then the Nation will truly go crazy. Committment to Excellence. P.S. Props to Coop, we’ll miss ya man.
November 27th, 2007 at 12:26 am
ESPN just reported kiffin might be up for the arkansas job……huh??
will all the “fire kiffin” banter come true??
if so, put me down on the “hire cower” train.
November 27th, 2007 at 12:31 am
if we were to fire kiffin(god i hope not),do you actually think a coach of cowhers reputation would work for the raiders?if you do you’re dreaming.
November 27th, 2007 at 12:39 am
Why did Brodie Croyle look like a seasoned veteran against this defense. Is he that much better than JRuss. Why are we pampering this Giant with a cannon for an arm. I will tell you one thing. You can count on Blitz-a-mania when JRuss does get on the field. If we Blizted Croyle, he would not have had the smarts to find the open guy. Seasoned vets like Brady, mentally pick up the blizt and immediately throw to the vacated side. In other words in the general direction the blitzer comes from. But Croyle would have looked like the rookie is, if we only Blitzted.
It looks to me like the Raiders beat themselves again. Only this time “themselves” were wearing orangutan-butthole red and white. What I mean by that, is that after the Chiefs scored on a 63 yards, 9 play drive (facilitated by the J Rich roughing the passer penalty) leading to a 17-13 score. The Raiders answered back in the 4th quarter, going down the field in 3 plays, going 77 yards to make the score 20-17. And it was the CHIEFS who were back on their heels falling into the abyss of choketown. I loved it!
November 27th, 2007 at 12:51 am
I have two favorite Donk memories - in L.A. in the 90’s (after Shannarat) we were beating them so bad that Elway was punting on third downs - I swear he did it 2 or 3 times that game - we were just destroying them - INT’s, Sacks, Big Plays all day - it was great - and then I went to a game in Denver where Bo Jackson busted through the line, ran over Karl Mecklenberg, and then hurdled Dennis Simth without breaking stride and scored on a 50 yard TD run. Scott Davis blocked David Treadway’s kick to save the game at the end - great victory!
I can’t stand Elway’s Teeth - he needs some collagen injections so he can close his damn mouth. If you don’t hate Elway, then you can’t be a Raider Fan - even if you think he was great, still gotta hate him!
November 27th, 2007 at 12:56 am
I heard the ESPN report also. They said Kiffin is a darkhorse candidate for Arkansas. I guess these rumors are something we have to deal with since he comes from the college ranks.
November 27th, 2007 at 1:08 am
rich gannon’s love child, It’s amazing isn’t it that we never blitz? The Patriots either blitz or fake the blitz on just about every play to confuse the offense. It is the one thing that almost makes me leave this team.
I think it’s one of those Al Davis things. Supposedly Al doesn’t like the blitz. When Gruden was the coach, we blitzed a lot and it worked. Remember the Tuck Rule play? That was a blitz on Brady that should have taken us to the Super Bowl.
November 27th, 2007 at 1:12 am
That would stink if M Bush can’t recover fully - I still like the risk in the 4th round no matter what - he was projected to go late first to late second even with the injury - I hope we get to see him at full strength next year - he has amazing vision, “good enough” speed, and awesome cutting ability - perfect for our zone block system -like terrel davis except better vision and 20 more pounds of muscle.
Best to Coop - I’m glad he got another shot with us and hopefully because he mainly relies on straight line speed (to cover kicks) and power (short yardage package as a safety), he’ll be good to go next year for us -
We have lots of holes to fill in order to get to the playoffs, but if you can’t stop the run, nothing else matters - our o-line is doing o.k. and we can put up enough points to stay competitive when we can keep our D off the field by running the ball and working off play-action - with that in mind, our first pick should be a top flight run stuffing Defensive Tackle. Sapp and Warren are penetrators, not run stuffers, and Sands has failed to live up to his contract - there’s a couple top-10 worthy guys in the draft at the DT position and I think that’s where we’ve got to go - personnaly, I’d love to make the switch to the 3-4 with Kelly and D-Rich at DE (perfect size for the 3-4) and draft a big NT - then we can take a tweener in round two and make him a OLB with Thomas, Morrison, and Howard rounding out the crew - maybe D burgess can play OLB - he’s got the speed and body type for it - probably not but since we really need two DT’s to be a good 4-3 team, I’d rather go to a 3-4 and find one stud NT for the 3-4 - sometimes those guys can be found in the late rounds too -
One way or the other, we have to stop the run and our DT’s aren’t getting the job done. A run stuffing SS does us no good if the holes are so big the RB has room to make a move in his running lane, which is what is happening on way too many plays - just take a look at what our RB’s are given (small creases) vs. what our D is giving other teams (Huge lanes and half the field to use as a cut back option).
If we can stop the run next year, it will increase the number of plays we have on offense (the clock won’t run down so quickly), which plays into our plan of wearing down the opposing D - once that happens, the play action pass and vertical game opens up - I’m In!
November 27th, 2007 at 1:23 am
Is it time to release Sapp?
November 27th, 2007 at 1:55 am
This could be why Kiffin’s been playing games with Al. He could be getting ready to pull a Nick Saban. I wouldn’t blame him. There is little reward in coaching for Al Davis. Look at what even the successful coaches under Al have had to go through….Gruden, Shell (first tenure), Flores, Madden???
Some player was quoted recently as saying that Al is hard on the coaches and easy on the players, and he was totally boasting about it. If anyone has the quote and the player attached to it, let me know. But it was a chilling reminder of what a head coach has to go through here. It’s a NO WIN….even if you win! Again, ask Gruden.
The proof is in the pudding. We’ll know when Al Davis is treating a coach right when the coach wants to stay here. Is there a better indicator? In the meantime, as long as Davis treats coaches like uninvited party guests, he deserves whatever he gets as a coach. Fans that want to see this football team win, Vertical game or not, just want Al to hire the right coach and treat him with respect. If he refuses to do it, why shouldn’t we laugh at the trainwreck that ensues? Question our loyalty all you will. But why be “in” when the owner isn’t even “in”, in regards to making decisions that are more likely to result in victories?
November 27th, 2007 at 2:53 am
OK MaddenRaider, some examples of “games” which Kiffin is playing with Al, if you please. Obviously quotes can, and are, taken out of context all the time. It’s no secret that Al believes players are more important than coaching. He has a pretty good point. SOME coaches, a minority, do make that difference which leads to consistent success. The problem with our beloved Raiders is that we don’t have enough talent. Al is directly responsible for this. I think this years draft was successful, and I think next years will have more of Kiff’s fingerprints on it.
MR, U have to let this Gruden crush go at some point. Kiffin’s going nowhere, he didn’t leave USC to then take an Arkansas job. Kiff’s in for the long haul, just wait and see.
Why can’t you Al “haters” look at the comments from Kiffin about Al “leaving him alone” during the season as Al giving him his freedom to do his thing?
Give Kiff and Al one more season to start showing some consistency, then we go from there. MR, you will eat your words about AD concerning Kiffin. I will be around to make sure you do!!!
SirBlitzalot…..If you thought Croyle did a good job, that’s laughable! The only reason we won that game was Croyle’s incompetency. Huard probably would have beaten us.
This does not mean that I disagree with your assessment of the Russell situation. He needs reps this year without a doubt, and I believe he should be #2 this week.
We need to get the rust and butterflies, insert your own cliche here, and like I’ve said before, who knows maybe this kid comes out on fire and never looks back!
JUST GET THE FRANCHISE IN THERE BABY!!!!!!
November 27th, 2007 at 3:11 am
“Even some of the true believers — sheep still convinced Al walks on water — are puzzled over the failures of the Silver and Black” ~ Monte Poole
Bbbaaaahhh
November 27th, 2007 at 5:19 am
R.I.P.
Sean Taylor
November 27th, 2007 at 5:29 am
profootballtalk.com reports Sean Taylor passed away this morning.
November 27th, 2007 at 6:03 am
HEY HOW BOUT THAT QUENTIN MOSES!!!!! HIS 2ND PLAY OF GAME LAST NITE
HE GETS ANOTHER SACK !!!! WOW !! SO THAT MEANS 4 PLAYS VS BILLS 1 SACK,
NOW 2 PLAYS VS PITTSBURGH GETS ANOTHER SACK!!!!THAT GIVES HIM 2 SACKS
IN 2 GAMES W/ MIAMI SO WHY CANT HE BE DOING THIS OF OAKLAND????
WELL ALL YOU “ROBRYAN” 4 PRESDIDENT PEOPLE NEED TO ANSWER THAT! YOU ARE
ALL LOOSERS FOR STICKING UP FOR THIS GUY! HE IS A PUTRID EXCUSE FOR A COACH
LET ALONE A HUMAN !! HE IS SUB HUMAN!!! YOU ARE ALL PART OF THE PRONLEM! YOU
ARE ALL BAD LUCK !!! THIS IS A BIG PART OF WHY OAKLAND IS 3-7 AND NOT 8-2 LIKE
I KNOW THEY COULD EASILY BE!
WE GOT A LOUSY 20 SACKS THIS YEAR , THAT PROJECTS TO MAYBE 32 @ SEASONS END!
ANY THING UNDER 44 SACKS AINT GOOD ENUFF!!! NOW IT BECOMES CLEAR THAT “ROBRYAN”
DOESNT WANT THIS TEAM TO HAVE A PASS RUSH OR RUN DEF DUE TO THE FACT THAT
HE WANTS TO BE “THE HEAD COACH” HERE SO HE FIGURES HE SABOTAGES THE RUN EF
AND PASS RUSH 1 MORE YEAR , AND THEY FIRE KIFFIN AND HIRE HIM ! THIS HAS TO BE
THE ANSWER !!! HE NEEDS TO BE FLOOGED/ THEN FIRED !!! NOW!!!!! NOT @ END OF YEAR!
OR THE OTHER ANSWER MUST BE THAT HE I REALLY THIS INCOMPETENT THAT HE CAN
NOT DIFERENTIATE BETWEEN A GREAT PLAYER AND A BAD PLAYER!!!! IF THIS IS THE CASE
THEN ALSO HE NEES TO BE FIRED NOW !!!!!!
BLAMING THE TALENT IS NOT VIABLE ! FOR 2 REASONS #1 THE TALENT WE HAVE IS VERY
GOOD JUST POORLY COACHED! AND # 2 HE KEEPS CUTTING THE BEST PLAYERS THAT
CAN OFFER A PASS RUSH & RUN DEF !!!! THESE ARE THE FACTS !! AND THERE IS NO
OTHER SIDE TO THIS MISERABLE STORY!!!!
SO IF ANY OF PEOPLE WANNA PROVIDE A DEFENSE FOR THIS GUY , YOU WILL BE AS
ANEMIC AS YOUR OWN CLIENT “ROBRYAN” “NO DEFENSE”
November 27th, 2007 at 6:15 am
God rest Sean Taylor’s soul. Always one of my favorite non-Raiders and in my opinion was the best pure safety in the league. I’m sure the rest of the RaiderNation will join me in sending our prayers and condolences to his family, friends, fans, and the Redskins organization. Heaven must have needed a free safety.
November 27th, 2007 at 6:17 am
Lane Kiffin the new Head Coach of Arkansas. This is indeed a dark day for Raider Nation. The Kiffin Era is over. It is obviously a tremendous that loss will be felt for decades to come. Don’t dismay Raider Nation we still have the memories. Remember when Lane pulled the wool over the entire NFL when he woundn’t announce his starter going into the season? Remember what intestinal fortitude Lane displayed when he stuck to his guns and insisted trotting out Mcnown as the Raiders starting QB? That was moxy. And who could forget the pizza party? Lane we hardly knew you. You will be missed. Just Win Baby.
November 27th, 2007 at 6:33 am
RIP Sean Taylor.
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Fire Kiffin, I hope someday you find a team to support & learn what it means to lose with dignity. Obviously, your parents were lacking in their child-rearing skills.
You SUCK!….and no-one will ever forget THAT.
November 27th, 2007 at 6:40 am
Several owners are very difficult, yet not one has the knowledge of Al. How many coaches have worked under Dan Snyder, Jerry Jones, Bill Bidwell, etc and have horrible relationships? Obviously with Al’s knowledge of players and ability to scout college players any coach is automatically in a positive/negative due to Al’s smarts. Compare this to a coach with DC/Dallas working their owners.
Big difference. Kiffin will be back next season. He’s not going to recruit at Arkansas and have to face LSU/Auburn/Alabama/Florida etc from the SEC every year. He’s always going to be a candidate for any college due to his USC ties, but he’ll stay until this ship is righted.
November 27th, 2007 at 6:59 am
FIRE KIFFIN,
I do not agree with you, but that was funny
November 27th, 2007 at 7:15 am
are all of you sure they are talking about lane kiffin and not monte kiffin? monte is in his last year of contract and has been in tampa since 96.
if rumors are true, RIP sean taylor, former miami hurricane
November 27th, 2007 at 7:17 am
man they are
November 27th, 2007 at 7:43 am
MaddenRaider, I’m sure it’s not all fun and games, coaching for Al, but I don’t think the examples you listed do much for your overall case, not three of them, anyway. Madden lasted ten seasons, Flores nine and Shell I five-plus; all figures are well above the average tenure of an NFL coach. If working for Al was so hellish, as you claim it was, why didn’t they just walk away? More importantly, for sure Madden and Flores (and I wouldn’t be surprised if Shell, as well, despite everything) have nothing but good to say about Al Davis. How many times have you heard John Madden say, “If I was in trouble and only had one phone call, I’d call Al Davis.”?
Even Gruden lasted four years (higher than the average) and left of his own volition.
I would like to see that quote you referenced, as well. At this point, chances are just as good that it was an off the cuff remark not meant to be taken seriously as it is any sort of ‘chilling reminder.’
But you’re right about one thing: Al Davis needs to treat his coaches with respect. The funny thing is, most of his successful coaches will tell you he DOES treat them with respect. (Yes, I said MOST) Until we hear anything concrete otherwise, I’m assuming he’s treating Kiffin likewise.
November 27th, 2007 at 7:51 am
Al Davis is nealy eighty years old, please he may be sharp as a whistle to some, but it is clear to others that he is in the throws of dementia with his crazy 5 coaches in 6 years and the worst nfl record to boot the last four years. The Al you are talking about is gone now and his crazy crap is costing the Raiders on the field.
November 27th, 2007 at 7:52 am
Sean Taylor’s assailiant probobly lost a dog fight bet. Ask his friend Clinton Portis….
November 27th, 2007 at 7:53 am
Maybe Al can trade Kiff for some Razorback players and a coach to be named later along with some money and alumni
November 27th, 2007 at 7:58 am
Al may be old, but he hasn’t lost it yet. All teams go through times like these, but it’s how we get out of it. Yes we’ve had a horrible 4 years, but Kiffin is leading us out of these bad times and before Al relinquishes command, he’ll have a solid team again.
November 27th, 2007 at 8:02 am
The Raiders have been under bad times except for a brief Gruden stint for about 30 years now. How long do you want to wait?
November 27th, 2007 at 8:05 am
Oh No! I hope we can muddle our way through the rest of the season without roid-boy Cooper. I hope he never plays professional football again. He’s a disgrace to his uni.
November 27th, 2007 at 8:10 am
Very sad about Sean Taylor. All for a little bit of money.
It’s just madness!
November 27th, 2007 at 8:28 am
30 years, lol. check your history dude, please.
2000 era - 3 division titles, 3 playoff appearences, four losing seasons
1990 era - 1 division title, 3 playoff appearences, three losing seasons
1980 era - 3 division titles, 4 playoff appearences, superbowl win, three losing seasons
yeah, real bad times huh, some team dont even have division titles OR playoff appearences with more losing seasons
November 27th, 2007 at 8:35 am
Anybody who writes ‘in the throws’ is not to be taken seriously in the first place. This is not a simple misspelling or a typo, this is ignorance, plain and simple. I’m sorry but it’s true. Let the ad hominem attacks commence.
November 27th, 2007 at 8:46 am
Does anyone know who the Raiders team captains are and how the election process works? Do they have different captains every week? Hook a brother up. Thanks. Go Raiders.
November 27th, 2007 at 8:59 am
I just hope we not only win but we dominate.
I want to hear the announcer saying ‘It’s been a long time since we’ve seen the Oakland Raiders dominate an AFC West opponent like this…” I want to see Shanarat’s eyeball popping halfway out his skull, veins bulging out the side of his neck and up his ratty forehead. Announcer: “I think some changes are due in Denver after this performance…” Shanarat standing there redfaced snapping at no one in particular as he does when getting his ass whupped.
Eff Mark Schlereth
Eff Tom Jackson
I’m IN!
November 27th, 2007 at 9:06 am
I’m with you, Bishop916. The Broncos have been absolutely destroyed a couple times already this season; do I hear THREE?
November 27th, 2007 at 9:08 am
Mcfadden is not what we need. Trade the pick to dallas for both their number ones and lets beef up the lines on both dides of the ball.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:08 am
I think the captains were chosen at the beginning of the year and are permanent. Its a new Roger Godell thing for every team.
Offense - Sims & Curry
Defense - Sapp & Burgess
Special Teams - Lechler
That is what I can remember anyway.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:19 am
The win v. KC was nice, but it means nothing unless we build upon it. Maybe it will turn out to be one of those cornerstone victories like Gruden’s win in KC, but until we see consistent victories it was what it was, a three point AFC West road victory over a weak KC team starting a new QB and backup RB (who ran for 150 yards!). Not all that impressive. If we take care of Denver next week and win one out of the last four games I would consider this season a slight disappointment, but a step in the right direction.
The unfortunate thing is that even if JR gets some playing time this year we are still going to be behind the eight ball at the QB position next year with JR starting. Hopefully he has a Marino-like first season, but it is more likely that he struggles quit a bit in the first few weeks, meaning another tough year next year, unless our defense can step up and keep us in games…I only see that happening if we can solidify the D-line and replace Stu with even an average NFL safety.
Who knows what lies ahead for this franchise, but things sure look better than they did last year.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:20 am
Yeah, that’s 2 Superbowl wins in the ’80s. An appearance in the AFC title game in ‘90 and ‘00. And we probably should have won the big one in ‘00 and’01 (Goose’s cheap shot and the Tuck rule). Hostetler’s shootouts with Elway (we won on consecutive weekends, first to clinch, the second was a playoff game, ’90s) And I also agree with an earlier post, the “Lytle fumble” cost us another Super Bowl as did M.Wilson’s 6 picks against the Pats (although we probably wouldn’t have beaten the ‘85 Bears)
November 27th, 2007 at 9:25 am
The futures so bright I have to wear shades. Oh what a win can do. See even at 3 and 8 one can find satisfaction. I’m serious…. hope does spring eternal I guess.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:25 am
I know this is a Raider’s board, but hopefully everyone takes some time today to bow your heads and give some respect and best wishes to the Taylor family. This guy was known to get into trouble but left behind a baby daughter and was supposedly turning his life around. As far as his relevance to the Raider Nation goes, he had that Raider mystique about him. I’m sure I’m not alone in saying I was counting on us picking him up the year we drafted Gallery. He would have definitely found a good home here. May God bless his soul.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:41 am
Koolkell’s talks like his family was murdered by Al Davis. I think he is a closet Raider hater.
In other words shut the f up punk! Take your moronic Al hating to another location you whining little girl. All Raider fans know what Al has done right and what Al has done wrong. We are enjoying a win while you are whining about the rooney’s being stable. Go be a steeler fan, thats what you are anyway. Punk.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:41 am
Tay Says:
November 26th, 2007 at 11:33 pm
Did anyone hear the Greg Papa interview on KNBR his morning. They asked him about MB and he said that MB was having a lot of other health issues as a result of that broken leg. He was having some type calf problems and other issues.
He also said that when he saw him practice he loked pretty slow. G. Papa said he wasnt surprise that they shut him down for the rest of the season.
***************************
DID ANYONE ESLE HEAR THIS? Damn I hope he fully recovers, but this report by Greg Papa, if accurate, seems contradictory to what Kiffin says and reporters have written about what the team feels about MBush’s health and readiness.
Jerry MacDonald - time for some investigative journalism…
November 27th, 2007 at 9:47 am
God Bless Sean Taylor and his family. Reminds me of the tragic death of Stacy Toran. Truly terrible.
November 27th, 2007 at 9:54 am
To “Fire Kiffin”
Hey genious…
All you do is bash Lane, who is the first coach to win in Kansas City since Callahan. He also coached the first hundred yard rusher in KC since the 70’s!!!! I wasn’t even born yet… So since you seem to know so much yourself, who do you suggest we hire??? Art Shell??? Tom Walsh??? Tom Flores??? You probably wanted Fred Bilitnikov to be the coach…
I SAY LANE KIFFIN IS THE BEST THING TO HAPPEN TO THIS TEAM SINCE RICH GANNON, AND THAT THE VICTORY THIS PAST WEEK IS JUST THE TIP OF THE ICE BURG!!!!!
November 27th, 2007 at 10:03 am
Mention these teams, Redskins, Cowboys, Giants, Bears, Patriots, Bengals, 49′ers, Seahawks, Broncos, Browns, Ravens, and the list goes on and on for having horrible stints like the past 4 years the Raiders have had.
The team was old when Gruden was head coach. So many of those players have retired or are now with another team.
Kiffin is building from the fountain of youth and in a couple of years we’ll become rock solid team again.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:05 am
nvmike: Wilson threw 3 picks vrs. the Patsies in that game, not 6. What really killed us was the fumbled kickoffs, one recovered in the end zone and the other turning into a touchdown shortly thereafter.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:07 am
Asomaugha, Routt, Washington, Howard, Morrison, Huff, Richardson, Clemons, and Eugene are all young quality starters for our D.
Miller, Fargas, JRuss, Carlisle, possibly McNasty, and hopefully Bush make a very good start to building the offense.
We obviously need help on the O line, a solid DT, DE, FS, and of course a stud WR with speed to spread the offense out.
Give Kiffin two years and he’ll have most of the issues solved. If Pops comes along for the ride as D Coordinator, then hell we could really be good (dreaming of course).
November 27th, 2007 at 10:11 am
Well a lot can be done with numbers and in general the way you framed it looks good. However, since their last superbowl win was the 1983 season lets just say the Raiders are 193-190 in wins and losses and no superbowl wins. Commitment to mediocrity!
Now I know the Raiders pride themselves on their history, but when you have a team that has boasted a best winning precentage in pro sports at one point in time, you also have to look at what they have done since the last great sucess of 1983. If you are satisfied with that then okay.
Shoulda woulda coulda’s do not count mike.
November 27th, 2007 at 10:29 am
Hobs Gnarly Says:
November 27th, 2007 at 10:11 am
Well a lot can be done with numbers and in general the way you framed it looks good. However, since their last superbowl win