Lechler is lone Pro Bowl player
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Tuesday, December 18th, 2007 at 2:04 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Punter Shane Lechler survived returns for touchdowns in each of the last two games and was named to his third Pro Bowl Tuesday.
Lechler leads the AFC in gross punting (49.0), net punting (41.0) and has placed 21 kicks inside the 20-yard line with just six touchbacks after a 19-to-19 ratio last season.
Earlier this season, Lechler and the Raiders special teams shut down Chicago Bears return specialist Devin Hester. But after 573 punts, Green Bay’s Will Blackmon returned one 57 yards for a touchdown last week.
Then against Indianapolis, T.J. Rushing burst through a hole and raced 90 yards untouched for the touchdown _ a play all the more galling for Lechler because he had the last shot at a tackle.
Lechler’s 41.3 net average this season is his best since a 38.0 mark in his rookie season. His career average of 46.4 is the highest in NFL history. His previous Pro Bowl selections were in 2001 and 2004.
Names of alternates are not released by the NFL, although some become public through individual teams.
Among the Raiders who could find themselves in Hawaii once players start backing out because of injuries include cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha and linebackers Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard.
Derrick Burgess, a Pro Bowl selection in each of the last two years, has six sacks this season, second on the team to Chris Clemons.
Lechler spared the Raiders the indignity of not having a player selected to the Pro Bowl (or the pre-merger AFL All-Star Game), something which has happened only once (2003) in franchise history.
The Raiders had little room for complaint. Seven teams did not have a player picked, including Jacksonville, a 10-4 team which hosts Oakland Sunday.
AFC team
Offense
QB: Tom Brady, New England; Peyton Manning, Indianapolis; Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh
RB:LaDainian Tomlinson, San Diego; Joseph Addai, Indianapolis; Willie Parker, Pittsburgh
FB: Lorenzo Neal, San Diego
WR:Randy Moss, New England; Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis; Braylon Edwards, Cleveland; T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Cincinnati
TE: Antonio Gates, San Diego; Tony Gonzalez, Kansas City
OT: Matt Light, New England; Jason Peters, Buffalo; Jonathan Ogden, Baltimore
OG: Alan Faneca, Pittsburgh; Logan Mankins, New England; Kris Dielman, San Diego
C: Jeff Saturday, Indianapolis; Dan Koppen, New England
Defense
DE: Jared Allen Kansas City; Kyle Vanden Bosch, Tennessee; Jason Taylor, Miami
DT: Albert Haynesworth, Tennessee; Vince Wilfork, New England; Jamal Williams, San Diego
OLB: James Harrison, Pittsburgh; Mike Vrabel, New England; Shawne Merriman, San Diego
ILB: DeMeco Ryans, Houston; Ray Lewis, Baltimore
CB: Champ Bailey, Denver; Asante Samuel, New England; Antonio Cromartie, San Diego
FS: Ed Reed, Baltimore
SS: Bob Sanders, Indianapolis; Troy Polamalu, Pittsburgh
Special teams
P: Shane Lechler, Oakland
PK: Rob Bironas, Tennessee
KR: Joshua Cribbs, Cleveland
Special teamer: Kassim Osgood, San Diego
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December 18th, 2007 at 2:07 pm
HOW DO THOMAS HOWARD, KIRK MORRISON, AND NAMDI ASOMOUGHA NOT MAKE THE PRO BOWL? HOW DOES CROMARTIE MAKE IT OVER NAMDI? HOW DOES JAMES HARRISON FROM PITSSBURGH MAKE IT BUT NOT HOWARD? HE GOT HIS ASS RAN OVR VS. THE PATRIOTS, HOWARD HAS BEEN CONSISTENT ALL YEAR. DeMECO RYANS OVER MORRISON? IF WE HAD A WINNING RECORD MORRISON IS A LOCK OVR HIM. MARIO WILLIAMS DESERVED TO GO OVR EITHER JASON TAYLOR OR JARRED ALLEN. JOSEPH ADDAI HASN’T DONE MUCH THIS SEASON SO I DONT SEE WHY FRED TAYLOR DIDNT MAKE IT OVER HIM. AND HOW DOES BIG BEN MAKE IT? I WOULD’VE TAKEN DEREK ANDERSON OR DAVID GARRARD
December 18th, 2007 at 2:09 pm
The Pro Bowl has always been a joke. Nothing new this year.
December 18th, 2007 at 2:11 pm
Realfootball365.com about Asomugha:
“What Pro Bowl voters won’t see on the ballot, however, is the amount of times No. 21 has been thrown against and how many of those passes were actually caught. If they did, Asomugha would likely be planning a trip to Honolulu.
In 13 games this season, the veteran CB has been tested a mere 27 times and has allowed only nine receptions against.´´
I knew he wasnt going to go, but he deserves it.
December 18th, 2007 at 2:13 pm
I AGREE RAIDERNATIONPA, THE PROBOWL IS A JOKE ITS MERELY POPULARITY CONTEST NOW, DESERVING PLAYERS AREN’T SELECTED LIKE THEY SHOULD BE ANYMORE
December 18th, 2007 at 2:14 pm
Well it’s nice to have a popular punter… I believe it’s one of Al’s biggest goals for the year. LOL
December 18th, 2007 at 2:14 pm
NO Jaguars made it? Boy, will they be mad theis sunday.
December 18th, 2007 at 2:15 pm
Can you believe Fred Taylor has NEVER made the ProBowl?
December 18th, 2007 at 2:16 pm
Blowpros
December 18th, 2007 at 2:17 pm
no pre-practice update?
December 18th, 2007 at 2:23 pm
They should rename it to the Pro Bowl-sh!t!!!!
December 18th, 2007 at 2:24 pm
John S,
It’s tuesday…
December 18th, 2007 at 2:24 pm
A new meaning to the initials P-BS?
December 18th, 2007 at 2:26 pm
Now Namdi knows how C-wood felt. After 4 staight Pro-Bowls, no one dared throw C-Wood’s way. Hence no more Pro-Bowls…that and his injuries.
December 18th, 2007 at 2:28 pm
They can take Schweigert as stewardess in their fly to Honolulu.
December 18th, 2007 at 2:29 pm
El Tato - can Jordan go 2?
December 18th, 2007 at 2:32 pm
Jordan cant go. He cant pass between the seat. He would collapse the corridor.
December 18th, 2007 at 2:38 pm
Raiders!!
December 18th, 2007 at 2:41 pm
we win 4 more games, and nnamdi and howard are there for sure. in nfl, it doesn’t matter what you do individually,it’s just like the nba’s mvp voting…you can carry a team, but if they don’t win 60 games, no award…it’s all for show anyway
December 18th, 2007 at 2:45 pm
Jerry Mac,
Lane Kiffin doesn’t seem to have any personality at all. He’s been here a year, and we get nothing but coachspeak from him. Not a gawddamned thing. When Madden was here, he was a plain spoke fella. Spoke to the fans and media. We had Shell and Upshaw, yeah we’re running left, so what?
I can’t get a feel for this dishwater guy. He says nada.
December 18th, 2007 at 2:54 pm
KK,
I respectfully disagree with your Kiffin comment. Sure, he’s been coy about the QB situation, but I think he is VERY candid about most things about our team. Do you watch ‘Raider Press Conference’? If not you should tape/tivo it. It’s by far the best weekly Raider show. You can also see his conferences on raiders.com. If you’ve seen all of this, and still think he’s full of coachspeak, then I just think you’re flat wrong.
December 18th, 2007 at 2:58 pm
“It’s all the same f*king day, man…”
Kell I wonder if he’s emulating Bellichik. Lord knows Joe Bugel had some home-spun shtick going but couldn’t coach himself out of a paper sack.
December 18th, 2007 at 2:58 pm
Yeah Raul,
I do watch the press conferences, dry affairs, monotone delivery, coachspeak. I get no feel for the man.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:00 pm
KK,
The beauty of Kiffin’s persona is his poker face. He doesn’t get too high when he wins, and never too low when we lose. He’s very matter of fact, and I think it’s one of his best traits. On the field, he’s a good to very good play caller, manages time well, and is both consevative & aggressive. I think he compares better to Tom Flores, and less Gruden & Madden.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:02 pm
Bellichick is one model, no need to go Joe Bugel. Parcells told you what he thought, Madden said what was on his mind. Tony Dungy is candid.
Art Shell said nothing
Lane Kiffin says nothing.
I don’t know the guy, can get a feel for his personality, therefore can’t trust him. At least we knew Shell.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:06 pm
Raul,
I agree with your last post, poker-faced, conservative, aggresive etc. Poker-faced Coachspeak is the dominate trait I see. I have not seen ANY personality.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:09 pm
Faneca’s price tag just went up another million.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:12 pm
Kell,
No need to give up your gameplan every week. Fans like us will begin to get a read on Kiff, and be able to read between the lines.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:17 pm
What’s up Raider Nation!
I’ve been gone for a few days and everything changes on me. This new format will take a little getting used to, but it seems to be an improvement.
My work keeps me really f’ing busy this time of year so I haven’t had a lot of time to add my 2 cents these days. I just wanted to say hello to y’all and let you guys know that I haven’t fallen off.
I want to say what up to:
Raider Dell, SNB666, South Texas Raider, oakglenn, Raider Raul, Bob Marley, JohnS and Dolemite himself KoolKell. And of course anyone else that I have failed to mention that deserves the recognition.
Thomas Howard got jobbed, he should be going to Hawaii dammit!
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
December 18th, 2007 at 3:19 pm
Hey KK people here in Cleveland fans hated that about Belichek…. I think as much as anything it was part of the reason they ran him out of town. Because he didn’t coach for the fans, when he lost it was the same persona from him as when he won, Browns fans didn’t trust that about him. People thought he didn’t care. Stupid ass fans here in C-town.
Kiffin IMO is an NFL lifer, he has seen this show before thru his dads eyes, hopefully time will tell that he can be trusted.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:21 pm
Josh,
No need to give up your gameplan for sure. I just have no feel for the man, don’t know who he is, what he stands for.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:22 pm
This just underscores how much of a farce the Pro Bowl is. I haven’t bothered watching a Pro Bowl in several years. It doesn’t even decide anything like the All-Star game in baseball. Its just a glorified vacation for millionaires. God knows fans could care less who wins the Pro Bowl.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:23 pm
KoolKell-
Most people don’t know Art Shell as well as you do. It’s not like he ever came over to MY house!
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
December 18th, 2007 at 3:25 pm
Yes but we knew his philosophy, Al Davis’s philosophy, he played here for 15-16 years.
Of course winners can get away with stuff others can’t, that’s life.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:27 pm
Morrison should be in the pro bowl but was snubbed over the “pile jumper” Ray Lewis. After seeing the way Antonio Gates schooled Ray Lewis and the way that heartless Ravens team has played only guy who belongs is Ed Reed. Morrison got snubbed cause of a popularity vote. Ray Lewis just got injured so the right thing to do is have Kirk Morrison in
December 18th, 2007 at 3:29 pm
I think Kiffin should have his press conferences in a bed, like John and Yoko.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:31 pm
KoolKell -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYqr6Y-I4yw
Kiffin shows his personality a bit in this video from June.
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
December 18th, 2007 at 3:32 pm
I think he should hold his press conferences at the Grotto inside the Playboy Mansion.
Raiders for Life…I’m In!
December 18th, 2007 at 3:42 pm
Ha, Ha, Ha, Dogg,
thanks for making my point, but you gotta love Raider fans, damn.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:44 pm
Hey, I love the Raiders, I just worry alot.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:51 pm
Mr Davis could do so much here, he’s an icon. Shake a few hands around here, grant an interview once in a blue moon for godsakes, let the fishwraps watch a practice, Go to a firggin party, quit suing everybody, know what I’m sayin? Maybe the referees pull the boot out every now and then.
December 18th, 2007 at 3:54 pm
F@ck yea me too KK…aint nuthin but a Raider thang baby….
December 18th, 2007 at 3:55 pm
RayGuy8, if he did a John & Yoko in bed type press conference, would it be him and his milf-ish wife, or him and a bunch of Raiderettes?
I’m just trying to clarify my mental image…
December 18th, 2007 at 3:56 pm
-Kool Kell
I’m from L.A. and been an SC fan since I was 8. I got to see Kiffin and what he can do and who he is.
Here’s some insight to who Kiffin is:
1. Competitor
2. Good talent evaluator (Mike Williams, Bush, Leinart, Brian Cushing, Dwayne Jarret, Rey Maualuga)just to name a few.
3. Hates B.S. and lazy players.
4. The fire burns inside but does not show it, only when he needs to. (did you video of him inside the locker room after wins?)
December 18th, 2007 at 4:01 pm
Why would someone care if Kiff has a good personality or not? Are you going to invite him over to have Christmas cookies and egg nog and hope he’s some really swell guy? Bill Belichick comes off like a huge a**hole, but he wins his butt off. That’s all that matters to me, and so far Kiff has the organization back on the right track, personality or not.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:02 pm
LADR76,
No, I’ve never seen, his lockerroom demeanor.
OK, I guess I’ll youtube him, duh
December 18th, 2007 at 4:03 pm
CommonSense,
I’m just trying to get a feel for the person, ok?
December 18th, 2007 at 4:06 pm
Not much on youtube.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:09 pm
Most people haven’t heard of Thomas Howard or Kirk Morrison because the Raiders don’t get any nationally televised games anymore. If they could fill some gaps, stop the run, and not let third tier running backs make a name for themselves against them, then they might actually win some games and merit some national coverage. Any public voting will be a name game and writers aren’t always fair. The pro bowl is a joke but there isn’t a raiders linebacker who I feel dsesrves to be there. There are LBs in this league who can actually tackle that nobody has ever heard of that should be in the pro-bowl over any raider. Nnamdi got the shaft, though. Champ Bailey will be there because he has a cute little name and women and little kids remember it. This should be the most recognizable name bowl instead of the pro bowl, but either way, I’m glad Lechler gets some credit for being such an awesome punter. I guess it doesn’t mean much to actually be elected when it is so messed up.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:11 pm
http://youtube.com/watch?v=SQLZqwi9Bls
He cracks some jokes here, Kell. What is this, some benefit? He mentions a cause…
Kinda throws AW under the bus a little bit…
December 18th, 2007 at 4:22 pm
Blood,
Your post was to the point and well thought out. I wished I worked with people like you.
I will not try to beat this dead horse, so let me give you this angle for our discussion,I don’t disagree with you, I disagree with the blame on Kiffin.
Let’s look at Denver we play them twice a year so we know a little about their offense.
Their offense is like ours or vice versa.
Shanahan has used the two back system as long as he’s been the coach.
His two back system this year was to share reps between Travis Henry and Selvin Young/Mike Bell.
Each back was to play so many snaps, they just broke down, Henry with a knee, Young with a knee. They tried to use Bell but he fumbled two consecutive games and was benched during both of their injuries.
This was an example of a coach trying to use his backs wisely and both became injured at the same time.
Now to Kiffin, he has said many times he wanted to get jordan or Rhodes in the rotation (depending who was the No. 2 back was) to relieve Justin Fargas, some times the game situation changes the plan.
You are right, some games it looks like Fargas is getting all the reps and is getting beat up.
Let’s look at the Indy game, the 20 play drive Rhodes was in for Fargas and carried the ball and caught a short pass, he was relieved during that sequence of plays.
You know this is so much easier to talk about in person than to a monitor, I’m trying.
I do believe Kiffin has tried to get work for both backs, the plan going in was such, the events in the game dicated otherwise.
You and I are pretty close in agreeing to many of your points, I believe the game flow and score dictate many changes.
I believe the signing of rhodes definetly addressed your concern of working and wearing out one back, so Kiffin is completely aware of the problems with a one back system injury.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:24 pm
December 18th, 2007 at 4:14 pm
Glenn….You can talk for me anytime, your post helped me from writing another two paragraphs, thank-you.
Good post on the backs, staying in.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:24 pm
the reason no raiders make the pro bowl is the fans do the voting.most fans don’t know squat about other teams,and sometimes about their own team.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:25 pm
It was something for the local schools, no?
I was just watching Russell video. He threw quite a bit on rollouts to the right at LSU, just like the Raiders, funny that.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:25 pm
RaiderDogg…A high FIVE out to you my man, glad your doing well.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:30 pm
KK-did you see kiffin go after the guy who took a cheap shot on JM afew weeks ago.i think that showed a little bit of his personality.if one was to ask the players you’d probably get some insight.and you just might like what you here.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:30 pm
Dial 911- Thomas Howard was robbed
The best outside linebacker- who plays linebacker, not a glorifed D. End like Shawne HGH Meriman
Howard has 6 picks- 3 more than Chump Bailey. Howard has the same number of tackles as Harrison but less sacks. If only Ryan would blitz him more. Speaking of that why doesn’t he? Howard is freakin’ fast.
T Howard you and Kirk had my vote.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:31 pm
Maybe if Renel could bring him out for every press conference, and the press corps was made up of cheering women instead of fat men with mustard on their ties, he’d losen up a little more to your liking.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:33 pm
John S..You are so funny, mustard on their ties, GREAT!!!!!
December 18th, 2007 at 4:33 pm
Jerry you really have to do something about how these names look. Its dizzying to focus the eyes on who’s blogging. Just make it bolder please. The date/time stamp grabs your attention more than the name. You see the tme then you have to “make” yourself look up at the name. Its outta order.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:39 pm
Thanks Dell!
Terp, if put something in the “website” box, it will bold your name. That’s the only way to distinguish between people who are self-aggrandizing narcissists with blogs and/or websites from just normal people who have lives and occasionally comment on Jerry’s blog…
December 18th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
kk u keep me laughng lol…u want him to hold”we are who we thought they were” press conferences? actually i would pay to see one of those moments
December 18th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
Now - The pro-bowl is farse. Total BS. Means nothing. Its an embarrassment that they don’t have NA in the probowl. How else can you explain the fact that he’s the least thrown to CB in the league? Because he’s the BEST IN THE LEAGUE!!!
Champ (Chump) Baily is the most overrated corner out there. How many times have you guys seem the Chump get burned? The Chump and Bly were getting burned ALL SEASON! JRussell’s 1st pass came against the CHUMP.
Almost every pass thrown NAs direction he’s in near perfect position. I don’t see another corner back in the league for which I can say the same. The fact that he’s not STARTING in the Probowl says it all in my book.
The Farse-Bowl means nothing nowadays!!!
December 18th, 2007 at 4:47 pm
John S, I like the idea of press conferences being made up of cheering women. Good one.
December 18th, 2007 at 4:48 pm
Porter burns the CHUMP all the time!! And so does TO and so does a lot of other players.
December 18th, 2007 at 5:12 pm
If anybody is deserving of the Pro Bowl, its Lechler. Its hard to see Morrison and Howard making the Pro Bowl because we’re run of the worst at stopping the run and that can reflect on the linebackers. They may get interceptions but thats not their primary job. Asomugha should be there but stats always rule the Pro Bowl. Lechler making it made my day.
BTW - Haynesworth made his first Pro Bowl and OG Alan Faneca also made it. Those are just 2 players we have been coveting all year and its even more important now after they’ve reached the Pro Bowl. Those are the kind of players we need on this team, especially since they’re in the prime of their careers.
December 18th, 2007 at 5:19 pm
Also…I hate to defend Cromartie but he has 10 interceptions for 144 yards and 1 TD. On top of that, hes been a playmaker as people have tested him alot and hes come through. I will defend any player who deserves to be in the Pro Bowl…the hardest part to accept is that he is a Charger. Asomugha should be in the Pro Bowl but Cromartie deserves to be there based on those stats and this is only his 2nd year.
December 18th, 2007 at 5:41 pm
Huff24… Your right for pointing out his stats, and he probably deserves to go.
The difference is Namdi plays man, or cover 1 alot of the time. At least 70% as (a gauge of a number).
San diego play more zone about 70% of the time.
Namdi had 27 ball thrown his way this year, and only 9 were caught.
A dominant DB is one win the opposing QB doesn’t throw his way.
Also if you use the 10 interceptions by Cromartie as a gauge, then by your analysis Namdi 8 int last year, he should have made the Pro Bowl Last yearas well.
December 18th, 2007 at 5:41 pm
Jason Taylor over Mario Williams and J Ogden over anybody is more proof that people vote for names they know - not results.
Asomough is my only disappointment.
As good as Howard played vs the Colts, it’s hard to make a case for two LB’s on the NFL’s 2nd worst run D. Three timeouts and knowing the Colts will run with time running out - 2 pro bowl LB’s don’t give up a 1st down in two plays.
The real sleeper disappointment is Cooper Carlisle - a top rushing attack, 2-3 penalties and about 1 sack allowed all year? C’mon he should’ve been at least mentioned by local guys.
Oh well, the pro bowl was a big enough farce BEFORE they let fans vote. Now guys like TJ Who’s-your-mama are getting votes because people know them from ads.
How many Raiders fans haven’t seen Simeon Rice play in 3 years but clamored for his signing? That’s the name recognition nonsense of the pro bowl.
Ask the Jaguars - 10-4 - that’s bunk.
December 18th, 2007 at 5:53 pm
before kiffin starts his 2nd season as a raider coach. why not let him go and go after marty shotinhimer. why not? lets get dowm to business a.s.a.p. i know for sure by next year this time the raiders can win the west with marty. marty has a raider mentallity.
December 18th, 2007 at 5:58 pm
Carlos Lara..Whar are you smokin buddy.
Stay off the peace pipe and breath in fresh air.
December 18th, 2007 at 5:58 pm
Gee….maybe we should have listened to all those smart people and gotten rid of Rhodes or Jordan when we had a chance, I mean it´s not like there was a chance we might eventually need them.
Specially to remain with a semblance of a running game for Russell to have better opportunities to play more the next 2 games.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:00 pm
Bob M..You make to much sense, please stop your killing me.
That type of talk is not useful on this blog.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:02 pm
Cool..hey guys do as JohnS said…
Just type anything on the webstite box and the name boldens, easier for all of us to identify. For example I just typed ”none” and it came out like this.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
the pro bowl is a complete joke…
ray lewis?? joseph addai?? jon ogden??
paaaa-leeeeeeze…..
has anyone here even watched the pro bowl. christ, i didn’t even watch it when gannon was apparently dominating the game. it’s the nfl’s end of the year attempt to squeeze any cash left out of their sponsors. and now some dummies want it a week before the super bowl…ridiculous.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:06 pm
right on dell
December 18th, 2007 at 6:08 pm
ahh…the love child in bold face..
one love, bob, one love
December 18th, 2007 at 6:10 pm
RGLC..
Are you going to hang here awhile.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:12 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7COMimlw44 check this video out
December 18th, 2007 at 6:17 pm
raider dell…
i’ve got to get some chow in me, but after that , yes.
there’s a famous bowl with my name on it…..
December 18th, 2007 at 6:21 pm
We didn’t necessary have to cut Jordan AND Rhodes. We could have activated Bush AND THEN cut Jordan. Its hard to argue with Kiffin however because you can see that JR isn’t exactly lighting it up when hes in there and its obvious he has alot to learn. If JR is going through that, imagine what Bush is going through after breaking his leg and not playing for a full year. I really lobbied for Bush to get activated but maybe it was best to have him sit. I suppose we should be patient enough for JR and Bush because I’m sure the players that need to go will be gone next year and the players that we need to take over this franchise will be ready to do so…so in essence, we’re killing 2 birds with one stone. We need to start these rookies next year without the cancers that have held this team back. That will make their transistion into the NFL that much smoother. Besides, with only 2 games left to play, theres really no other way to think.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:25 pm
RGLC,
I posted this after we had a few posts, Sunday night, you may have not seen this, just keep your eyes open for me for guys we may draft.
I wish I could talk to people like you over a beer than type out questions, that can me misunderstood for something else.
I have read your post over time and I remember you saying you played college football.
Most of us are great fans and love the raiders, we just want to win consistently again.
The people who post have some high school football experience, or just their own opinions.
There aren’t to many with college football experience as a player, whether you played D-1, D_!!
or D-111, you have some valuable experience to give.
After 5 straight losing season of 10 or more losses, I’m looking for some wise info.
I trust your judgement.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:28 pm
Let me test drive the bold….smokin did somebody say smokin? schottenheimer this year maybe Fox next year after he gets canned, 2 years from now Shanarat can come in and be our general manager(thats all he really wants to be) why stop there NancyGay can take over PR
and former commisioner Tags can come in and take over for Al. Man I gots ta find some smoke..did someone say
smokin?
December 18th, 2007 at 6:32 pm
Triple R.. It’s late in the office here, I could use some smokin to.
Better yet, I will take Raul’s advice and drink less responsibly.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:35 pm
Huff24
Well, I didn´t say people wanted both cut, I said either.
But anyway, had we activated Bush and cut Jordan we´d be looking for Bush to play a big role, unless you wanted Rhodes to be in on every offensive play since there would be no other tailback other than Bush.
Of course, that´s without the event of an in-game injury in which case Bush would have to take over and take all the hits and most importantly and much harder…pick up the pass protection responsibilities.
All in all, the best decision was made, I think we agree on that, right?.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:36 pm
The Pro Bowls a farce?? The Pro Bowls a joke??? Whaaaatt??? Don’t you guys remember who WON last year??? Or who was the MVP two years ago???? Or how about all those great plays from 3 years ago??? yeah, neither do I.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:50 pm
Until we have a top 15 D and win 50% or more of our games can we EXPECT a D starter to be on the team.
Once we learn how to stop the run and have the players up front to do so, Morrison, Howard, Nhamndi, Huff, and Richardson (yeah high hopes) can be consistent Pro Bowlers and in Richardson’s case an alternate.
Both Huff and Nhamndi don’t have the numbers, but each player has taken away their player each game. Before Huff, Gonzo and Gates would rape us each year as well as the other TE’s.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:52 pm
Marty Schottenheimer coaching the Raiders would be like MaddenRaider asking Bob Marley to proofread his comments.
December 18th, 2007 at 6:59 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7COMimlw44
December 18th, 2007 at 7:04 pm
AL DAVIS = Raiders http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1b3c_LRigMU&feature=related
December 18th, 2007 at 7:08 pm
Bob Marley - We agree. There is a reason behind the Madness for all of Kiffin’s decisions. He’s wise beyond his years. Its hard to stomach McCown and some decisions Kiffin makes but when its all said and done, its easy to see why Kiffin has made these certain decisions and its always for the betterment of the team. There isn’t one decision Kiffin has made that has really hurt this team. One of the things that has been overlooked is Kiffin’s aggression as a playcaller. The last game had Kiffin going for it on 4th down somewhere near the 50 yard line. I found myself cursing at the decision but I had to sit back and put it into perspective. Al Davis and the fans have always looked for a coach who would attack, attack, attack and we’ve always sputtered in that department with coaches usually being too conservative ala Norv Turner. When you ask a coach to attack and to be aggresive, you have to expect those kind of situations and I certainly can’t say I don’t appreciate it. As we get better, we’ll start to convert those 4th down plays and show no mercy.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:09 pm
team of the decades,
I had never seen that before, I appreciate it…
Powerful stuff. Yeah Al might make some crazy decisions
but he is greatness personified. That is Nobel peace prize shit. To those that do not like him for whatever
reason, I got some nuts you can swing from. If Favre can stay because he earned it, and he should make the decision to quit because he earned it, well I guess we
should shut down the Raider Organization after Al leaves cuz you can’t follow that up. I am sorry as a Raider fan that I didn’t know the extent of what he did. To paraphrase Al….naw I won’t even try watch the video pay special attention to the dialogue from the 4min mark on……
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7COMimlw44
December 18th, 2007 at 7:11 pm
John S..
Where did I read some guy mumbling about his virtue and right to complain about Al Davis, he may have been MaddenRaider as he was wrapped with a white jacket with straps and taken away to the local hospital.
The article goes on to say “He was yelling Marley I hate you,I’m alway wrong” letting everyone know he was a Raider fan.
I’ll try to find the article.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:13 pm
Why in the hell would we let Kiffin go and hire Schottenheimer? Whats worse, having a coach who struggles during the season but wins playoff games or a coach who dominates during the regular season but consistently loses in the playoffs and usually in the first round? Of course, we’ll have to wait for that playoff win but I’m confident Kiffin will get us there as hes already proven not to be a Schottenheimer. He doesn’t baby anybody. He doesn’t even baby McCown. He says, “McCown…you want to play? Good. Then get your @$$ in there…I don’t care if you have a broken freakin leg, I’m not putting my million dollar insurance plan out there.”
December 18th, 2007 at 7:14 pm
thanx R-R-R-Raiderssssssssss
December 18th, 2007 at 7:16 pm
i think vince lombardi has a better shot of coaching the raiders than “marty ball”…..
December 18th, 2007 at 7:18 pm
i wish we had secondary like this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2Rt49EaQsA
December 18th, 2007 at 7:19 pm
We don’t need pro bowlers on our team , we need to win games. The pro bowl has always been a popularity contest it is not the best talent in the NFL. The Raiders need to win more games to see more players in the pro bowl.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:28 pm
thanks raider dell, i appreciate it. although, i must admit, i’m a quote-on-quote “youngster”. due to time as a player, i lost about 3-4 years of raider football–i was usually working out or in meetings on sundays and mondays. so obviously, being a college football player hardly makes me an expert on all things raider, but i try.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:31 pm
team of the decades,
no, Thank you again! I always thought Al was cool, a rebel, man I had no idea the depth
He along with all the rest who helped the movement were pioneers. I’ll put THAT in my pipe and smoke it…….All you oldtimers who knew this all along and followed realtime, you are very fortunate.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:32 pm
I am not ashamed to have been old schooled…
Sorry guys back to X’s and O’s.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:36 pm
i agree, sloraider.
the pro bowl is a dog and pony show. if anything, it’s AWFUL football. guys going half tilt, no blitzing, ect. plus it seems every year is a contest to see how close they can get the uniforms to look like to world league unis!!!
aside from the super bowl(recently), how bad of a month of sports is february?? midseason nba and nhl….yay!!
December 18th, 2007 at 7:47 pm
I hear ya RGLC, Feb. will be looking at the draft prospects and FA’s.
I just flashed back on Moss and how he gave up on us last year and would not play. Would not play to help the Raiders win just one more. Now the jerk is in NE and close to making history. Burns my ass that he is playing his heart out with those jerks but gave up on the Raiders. I sure hope we meet up with him some day.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:50 pm
Don’t worry sloraider, Moss will be back in the coliseum next year, Sunday Night game here in the biggity, biggity O against New England. It’s gonna sweet.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:55 pm
You mean we are going to get PRIME TIME? WOW I’m hope it’s on NBC the ESPN MFN SUCKS!
December 18th, 2007 at 7:57 pm
the karma police will eventually find moss. with the raiders, it was addition by subtraction. his work ethic-or lack thereof-is not something the young player need to witness day in and day out.
i know his numbers are otherworldly, but to me moss is STILL a one-trick pony. he’s not an all-purpose WR ala heinz ward or even TO. he still takes plays off, he doesn’t block-EVER, and you’ll never catch him catching too many balls in the middle of the field. plus, especially this year, if you hit him in the teeth a couple times, he packs it in….he’s a loser, we should all be glad he’s gone.
December 18th, 2007 at 7:59 pm
They’re obviously still working the schedule out, but, c’mon, this is gonna be kill, and everyone in the league likes this blog site so…. How’s about it Randy Moss??? Karma IS a hideous bitch goddess.
December 18th, 2007 at 8:04 pm
If he does come to town NE will most likely give him the night off or be used as a decou. I’m sure Namdi will waiting.
December 18th, 2007 at 8:06 pm
wow love child, I sent my karma comment without even seeing yours. I guess great minds DO think alike. You know they brought Moss in here to be a leader. And amongst his many foibles that you bring up, he definitely is not a leader. He used to make fun of Culpepper in the huddle in Minnesota about that. he doesn’t have to lead in New England. they got brady, they got bellicheck, he can just run his routes, catch his balls, and go home. perfect situation for him. I hope we bust him up.
December 18th, 2007 at 8:19 pm
I can’t say I too surprised or disappointed. Nnamdi might be a reserve. It’s hard to argue against any of the guys who were picked. Cromartie’s made a ton of big plays and Samuel is one of, if not the best CB out there right now playing for a 14-0 team. I feel like Champ’s had a down year though and maybe Nnamdi should have got in over him. But the lack of interceptions and Champ’s big name don’t help.
Also, you can’t hope to get two LBs in the Pro Bowl when you have one of the worst run defenses in the league. I like Howard & Morrison a lot, but until the team starts stopping the run consistently, they’ll have a tough time making it to Hawaii. Sorry.
December 18th, 2007 at 8:22 pm
Team OF the Decades… Dude that was bitchin’ I cant believe any player pulling huge jack and not coming with that Tatum attitude!!! They should be ashamed of themselves living the high life and leaving so much unfinished buisness out on the field it’s disgusting.
Tatum would have kicked their asses. Fargas is of that mold nobody eles comes to mind!!!
December 18th, 2007 at 8:39 pm
Fire Ryan. Replace him with the D coordinator from UCLA, Dwayne Walker. He’ll instantly bring a change to our D and as Kiffin knows from his last PAC 10 game how Walker can prepare a D. Besides, Chow is going to get the shot.
Most important upgrade to our D is the defensive coordinator. Ryan’s obviously not lighting Sands to get off his lazy ass combined with all the missed tackles and assignments shows a coordinator who’s over his head. Yes he’s brought talent to our team and has drastically increased the speed, however he can’t coach it.
I would love to see Chris Long or Sedrick Ellis drafted. Another pick would DE Delawrence Jackson out of USC if we don’t land DE Long with our first.
Obviously the line needs an upgrade, however considering we had Kelly, Sands, Warren (has a huge game like last Sunday and games where he takes the day off), and Brayton and the “confidence” Ryan had in his line, there’s obviously a level of disappointment.
There’s no explanation as to why Ryan can’t coach his players up. Week in & out even if we have the lead in the 4th, the D always flames out when it’s needed most. This needs to change.
Thank Ryan on the way out for bringing in the talent, but like Urban Meyer replacing Ron Zook at Florida whoever replaces him is going to have a lot of talent to work with.
December 18th, 2007 at 8:40 pm
Correction: Delawrence Jackson in the 2nd, no way in the first
December 18th, 2007 at 8:46 pm
as for the game this weekend, i’m kinda worried we could be a speed bump for the jags. fargas kinda gave us our “puncher’s chance”, and without him i dread we’re not going to be able to do anything on offense. we’ve got two “moss-like” RBs who’ve already got tee-times scheduled for the 31st, so it’s hard to envision them going balls out.
this could also be the weekend rob ryan’s fate is sealed. i watched the jags o-line completely dominate the steelers last weekend. it wasn’t pretty. they’re big, they’re physical, they’re at home and they’re rolling. that’s a bad combination for a team that can easily be described as “soft” against the run. the only way to win this game is to play most of it with at least a two score lead, and unfortunately without fargas, that might not be realistic.
December 18th, 2007 at 8:48 pm
Hey Team OF The Decades
Thanks…Great stuff….a must watch people…
AL DAVIS = Raiders http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1b3c_LRigMU&feature=rel
December 18th, 2007 at 8:51 pm
You may be right Jeremy, take a look at Kiffin and the look at Ryan. They look as thoe there in two worlds apart. But i don’t know…… the long hair, beard and beer gut look to be a fit with Kiffin who has the looks of a college prep?
December 18th, 2007 at 8:55 pm
Gannon Child..
Not that it´s something to get too excited or be proud to mention….but for the past few years it´s been very Jax like to play to the level of their competition, they´ll play the better teams like there´s no tomorrow and struggle where they have no bussines doing so. Maybe, we´ll make headlines on sunday.
December 18th, 2007 at 8:58 pm
Jeremy- if sands cant get motivated on his own then f-him. How long would bellicheck stand for lazieness! Its time we stop tring to bring them along at their pace and demand to keep pace, or get out!
December 18th, 2007 at 9:02 pm
talk about the kettle and the pot….
did art model really say al davis “professionally…disappoints him.”
December 18th, 2007 at 9:11 pm
Will wins at this point mean the same thing with McCown under center? Russell will be the starter next season, so momentum behind McCown will mean nothing.
Russell playing well should more of a momentum builder for next season.
December 18th, 2007 at 9:17 pm
just from listening to his interviews, rob ryan seems to be too “chummy” with his players. i know we’re talking about millionaires here, but players don’t want a buddy, they want a coach. as i’ve said before, big al needs to find the defensive equalivalent of lane kiffin. someone young, and who won’t put up with the BS ryan has apparently been tolerating for 3 years. just look at what new coaches did for the o-line and special teams.
i think too many people here(myself included) liked ryan because he looked the part. it is painfully obvious, however, he is more into style than substance. time to get a youg buck in there who is not afraid to call two blitzes…in a row.
December 18th, 2007 at 9:17 pm
one thing i can say, Art Model is just hating on Mr Davis cause Mr Davis Is The King of Football when it comes to the AFC. Art model is a jerk, and on to another point, When the raiders make a serious playoff/super bowl run. we will get pro bowl apprearences by other players than the best punter to come to the nfl since Ray Guy. Moral of the story is, The Oakland Raiders and Al Davis will Return To the Super Bowl and winning. think about how they feel in baltimore haha. I though Howard played great against the pass, but the run leaves alot to desire, consistant tackling also. Just more of a reason for this team to work harder and harder until they win ball games. IM IN
GO RAIDERS AND LONG LIVE AL DAVIS
Mose
December 18th, 2007 at 9:29 pm
say what you will but i like josh, hes is one tough QB. i hope hes back next year to backup russell.he can learn his toughness.another year in this offense and the pressure of dante gone, i think he can get better.
December 18th, 2007 at 9:55 pm
That video was OUTSTANDING. Thanks for posting that. Good Night, nation.
December 18th, 2007 at 10:01 pm
This just in…
The Best WR’s Coming out this year are…
Desan Jackson Cal
Early Doucett III LSU
Eddie Royal VT
Limas Sweed TEX
Robert Jordan Cal
Josh Morgan VT
Andre Caldwell FLA
DJ Hall BAMA
Mario Manningham MICH
December 18th, 2007 at 10:11 pm
Best RB’s
Jonathon Stewart ORE
Steve Slaton WV
Allen Patrick OKLA
Felix Jones ARK
Darren McFadden ARK
The BIG Sleeper is…
Chris Johnson from East Carolina 5′11 198LBS 4.25 40*
December 18th, 2007 at 10:22 pm
Top Safetys coming out
Craig Steitz LSU
Thomas DeCoud CAL
David Roach TCU
Brandon Isacc SC
Its pretty dry this year but these guys are for real.
December 18th, 2007 at 10:23 pm
RGLC,
I hate to disagree, as it is apparant you have afootball mind,and obviously Jordan, by virtue of his own words seems to have already packed it in. But I loved DRhodes effort last week. As I posted yesterday
on the last drive he caught a dump off(good play by McCown) over the middle, broke a tackle and dove for the first, he got his bell rung. He came up short of the first and got up knees buckling.Tough play, but he stayed in I think. Ilook forward to seeing how he plays this weekend against a tough Jacksonville D. He sure is famaliar with them after his years with Indy. MStroud is out so that should soften em up a little in the middle. I also thought he looked patient running
waiting for the blocks and hitting the holes nice in his limited action.JMO
December 18th, 2007 at 10:35 pm
Nobody but Lechler deserved to make this Pro Bowl boys. I hope Kiffin plays this to his advan this offseason.
We have some up and coming Pro Bowlers, but not until we win some damn games. Period. Our offense is mediocre at the very best, and the D…….HAHAHAHAH……fuhgetaboutit……
We will win as a team, and when we do, the players will reap the benefits. WE NEED MORE TALENT ON THIS TEAM!!!!
It starts with JaMarcus, and now we need to put some more pieces of the puzzle together. It’s safe to say the current players are not going to put us in the Super Bowl. Let’s see what AD and LK have in store this offseason.
Next year will be smoother, and we will get better. I expect the FA’s which we bring in will be talented, but carry no baggage.
Only one team will walk with the Lombardi in AZ this year, the Raiders are taking steps to be that one team in a couple years.
Selfishly, I hope that JR gets his first start at home vs San Diego. Let’s send those bastards off to their first playoff loss with a taste of what’s to come for many years.
JaMarcus Russell ain’t no Phillip Rivers….
JUST GIVE THE DAMN BALL TO JAMARCUS BABY!!!!
December 18th, 2007 at 10:56 pm
Chad E… good post earlier today, I think Rhodes, fargas and bush, (whatever he can do) is enough. solidify the D-line, Warren, is a hell of a start. Trade down and get multiple picks on o-line. Kiffin better start to understand this team must and I mean must get JR playing at a high level, its a shame he got so few opportunities. my neck hurts i’ve shook it so many times.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:02 pm
n.a. should have been in the pro bowl. period.
& better be resigned by the probowl. i think they should extend his contract now. would be sign of reward for performance & probably could get him a little cheaper than if they wait for him to be a fa.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:07 pm
what if Randy Moss played hard for us last year, maybe we go 5-11, stick with brooks, stick with Shell and room service, and then draft the fastest db regardless of his football skills. Randy will always be a quitter, regardless of what he accomplishes, but he did us a favor by quitting on that piece of sh*t staff.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:11 pm
not included in that piece of shit staff are Willy B, Freddie B, and Run Run.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:16 pm
randy assumed 1 of 2 things were going to happen
A fumbled snap
or
B qb sack
The real question regarding randy moss is what the hell do all those people do with retarded # 18 jersey LOL
December 18th, 2007 at 11:21 pm
art shell was 54-38 his first go around as raider coach, won a coach of the year, won a couple division titles, took the team to the afc chanpionship, had a lot of success. he had a very bad year last year and was rightfully removed as coach, but have a little respect and since of history, art shell was/is a great raider.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:21 pm
I wanted one but never pulled the trigger thank god
December 18th, 2007 at 11:23 pm
You are right Bs I apologize, he was/is a great raider.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:25 pm
now walsh on the other hand…
December 18th, 2007 at 11:28 pm
Walsh was there for all of Art’s early coaching glory, lets just say they had a very good team with several hof caliber players, and they played hard for Art.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:32 pm
i feel you though, it’s hard to get past last years performance, and art’s deer in the headlight look -writing on his notepad during the game. it was just a bad year, but art is a great raider and it’s a shame last year went down like it did.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:37 pm
last year was my first year as a season ticket holder, I have always gone to a lot of games, but I finally made the season commitment, by the way, I will be traveling and staying with the team to Jacksonville this weekend, very excited.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:41 pm
Hey Dominic I got yer back, 1 plant hit the hole, no
dancing now ya hear!I am IN…but out tonite.
Good night and Al bless.
O’ say can you see
by the dawns early light…..
December 18th, 2007 at 11:42 pm
Freezie send some sunshine up ta Ohio, Lucky dawg….
December 18th, 2007 at 11:43 pm
cool, you’ll have a blast. i was on the sideline for a raider dallas game a few years ago, deion was playing for dallas, jerry jones was on the raider sideline watching the game, it was a lot of fun.
December 18th, 2007 at 11:44 pm
I don’t know if we get sideline or not, dare to dream
December 18th, 2007 at 11:46 pm
I just read an article about the jaguars head coach jack del rio. He was talking about how he grew up in northern cali and his favorite team was the RAIDERS!!! Thats too funny.
December 19th, 2007 at 3:31 am
I dread playing Jacksonville….we don’t match up well with them at all.
We had success against the Colts because our D matched up perfectly against them. And their D-Line was basically knocked out because of injuries.
1) Drop LJ like a hot potato.
2) Get DR involved now and get his motor running for next year. (although I feel he is too much of a scatback for our offense.
3) Howard and Morrison are great at pass D but are soft. Sorry but they don’t deserve the pro bowl.
4) Put a bounty out on Moss next year. (Just like the Patriots do)
December 19th, 2007 at 7:22 am
Oakglen, I just sprayed my keyboard with coffee. You hit it right on the button with the Pro Bowl.
December 19th, 2007 at 8:02 am
Lechler was the only player deserving to be voted to the Pro Bowl.
I wonder where Stu Schwag & Tyler Brayton ended up in the Pro Bowl Voting?
December 19th, 2007 at 8:31 am
You guys are being short-sighted if you believe NA shouldn’t unquestionably be in the pro-bowl. He was only thrown at like 27 times ALL SEASON!!!
I don’t think you guys understand how big that is. Of course he’s not going to get the stats. NO ONE THROWS HIS DIRECTION! That says it all.
December 19th, 2007 at 8:33 am
He’s so damned good I bet if he did make it to the probowl they STILL would not throw his direction. lol.
December 19th, 2007 at 8:35 am
The Terp is so right.
December 19th, 2007 at 8:39 am
Charles Woodson warned him about it…
December 19th, 2007 at 8:42 am
MCFADDEN? MCFADDEN?
Do you think “the next AP” will fall to #8ish where we currently sit? Do you think he gets by Miami who is so desparate for RB help they signed Ricky Williams?
Think like a coach or GM and not like a sportscenter minion.
Would you be okay going into next year with Fargas/Bush and a system RB?
Would you be comfortable going into next year with Rihardson, Sands, Sapp and Clemmons as our D-line? No? Don’t want the worst run D in the league again? We need D-line help.
Burgess - Free Agent
Kelly - major knee rehab
Warren - ??? resigned?
We need a WR, S, DT, DE and a OL prospect wouldn’t hurt.
Denver has proved you can plug any system fit RB in this system and crank out the yards.
Our Defense has blown what? Four 4th quarter leads? We have a top D and we’re still in the wildcard chase.
December 19th, 2007 at 8:49 am
And I think Stanford Routt may very well end up being as good as NA one day. Watch this guy. So many times he’s in perfect position to make the INT. He’s right there but just narrowly misses it. I just don’t understand how he misses some of these INTs (i.e. vs Green Bay’s bomb and vs Indy twice).
Fabe is really good too, but just lacks consistency. Fabe has great raw talent imo, but he suffers from physical limitations (hieght, weight - physicality)
December 19th, 2007 at 8:49 am
You know what’s a good thing about our game this sunday, that our covers and their receivers are a pretty good match up for us. I think we should be able to stuff the box with 8, though that hasn’t helped in the past…but if we trust that our corners can handle the back field we can double team their RBs. We should put two people on them. And have everybody else swarm the ball after. We should have like a designated hitter #1 that rushes the RB no matter what, and a dh#2 that spends an extra second to see and make sure there’s no play action or anything like that, and then rushes the RB. DH#1 could be Howard or Morrison, and DH#2 could be Thomas or one of our safeties.
To cover their WRs we need to be very physical, and hit them in the mouth, because we can be sure, they will be hitting us. they are a very physical team and we have to show them that we can stand in there with them.
They are a very run heavy team, so our main concern should be that. Like I said, their recievers are decent, but they are nothing special, and our backfield is better then their receivers imo.
December 19th, 2007 at 8:52 am
Yeah, Namdi and Routt at 6′2 can match with 6′4 Williams and 6′4 Wilford while Fabian gets Northcutt.
December 19th, 2007 at 8:53 am
Jax is bound for a letdown, last week was huge for them.
December 19th, 2007 at 8:54 am
was that sarcasm Bob…?
December 19th, 2007 at 8:56 am
what?..
December 19th, 2007 at 8:57 am
your post#156, were you being sarcastic? It kinda reads like you were…
December 19th, 2007 at 9:01 am
Like any game the matchups are up front. The Jaguars will better tell us where our “O” line stands and what improvements need to be made. Success is in Pro-ball begins with the quality of the linemen and the system that employs them. Raiders were sadly lacking on the “O” line because there is not much talent there. Tom Cable changed that with his system so that we can address the “D” line in the 1st round of the draft. The “D” line is more of a need now, unless Jake Long is available. Jake Long is too good to pass up but my 2nd choice is Chris Long. Although he is projected to go to the Jets in the current draft order.
I use to be a staunch defender of AD period. I still love and revere him but his sticky wallet toward his GM and HC couple with his ego getting in the way of bringing in the best minds in football and letting them run the show has left us where we are today. AD’s inability to judge talent and his penchant for over paying the wrong players left the Raiders with players where the “O” line could not block and the “D” line could not stop the run. Players like Grady Jackson and Rod Coleman should have never got away.
Kiffen appears to be the right guy but I just hope AD does not suffocate him. Hopefully, the GM or GMs (Mark Jackson & Co.) AD has brought in will work in conjunction with Kiffen and they can continue to right the ship. I desperately want AD to leave the game on a winning note and leave the Raiders in the hands of talented people. Just let them do their job baby.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:01 am
To put it in proper perspective - NA gets balls thrown his direction an average of 2.07 times per game played. I say again - Thats twice per game. TWICE. You’re not gonna get many INTs like that.
Out of those 27 passes thrown his way only 9 were successful. And I believe that includes RWaynes miraculous reception.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:02 am
I don´t see how…but no, I wasn´t.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:05 am
Dang, I’m not even an old-timer, and I’m having issues reading these tiny little letters. 2 more font sizes larger would be perfect.
I think it’s cool how 2 groups of bloggers are now interacting with each other who previously haven’t. New friendships, and new conflicts!!
Otherwise, cool new format. I’m sure we’re all happy that we can see all the words we type…hopefully, better spelling and grammar now…
GO JAMARCUS!!!
December 19th, 2007 at 9:05 am
Cool Bob, it might just be me…I haven’t had my coffee yet…
December 19th, 2007 at 9:06 am
Wanna start some trouble 1980?…lol.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:09 am
I´m on my second mug…
December 19th, 2007 at 9:11 am
Another thought- RR play the same defense these last two games with the DBs in the face of the WRs and use occasional blitzing. I would like to see some blitzing from the DBs at times. Also, Kiffen let JR open it up with the passing game, what have we got to lose, a worse draft pick?
December 19th, 2007 at 9:11 am
Not with you Bob, let’s just pass the hooka around and maybe you can sing one of those great songs of yours…
December 19th, 2007 at 9:19 am
The game against Jax is a perfect way for the Raiders D to prove they are not soft. Against Chi, Den, and Indy the D played very good run defense. Against Min, KC, and GB the Raiders run D took it on the chin…hard. Time to step up on the road and play like men against one of the toughest running teams in the league. The d-line needs to penetrate and occupy blockers and the LBs need to shed blockers. Sometimes run D is all about attitude and commitment. The Raiders need to get downright nasty this weekend to have a chance.
I’ve noticed in most games this year that 1Q says a lot about how the Raiders will do against the run. If Taylor/Drew start off fast…it will be a longgggg day.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:19 am
Check out this mock draft I found:
Updated: December 11, 2007
Pick Team Player Pos College Class
1 Mia Glen Dorsey DT LSU Sr.
2 StL Jake Long OT Michigan Sr.
3 NE (SF) Chris Long DE Virginia Sr.
4 Atl Brian Brohm QB Louisville Sr.
5 NYJ Matt Ryan QB Boston College Sr.
6 Oak Darren McFadden RB Arkansas Jr.
7 KC Sam Baker OT USC Sr.
8 Balt Andre’ Woodson QB Kentucky Sr.
9 Cin James Laurinaitis MLB Ohio State Jr.
10 Car Kenny Phillips S Miami Jr.
11 Chi Ryan Clady OT Boise State Jr.
12 Phil Gosder Cherilus OT Boston College Sr.
13 Det Calais Campbell DE Miami Jr.
14 Wash Vernon Gholston DE Ohio State Jr.
15 Arz Frank Okam DT Texas Sr.
16 Den Sedrick Ellis DT USC Sr.
17 NO Malcolm Jenkins CB Ohio State Jr.
18 Hou Keith Rivers OLB USC Sr.
19 Buf Antoine Cason CB Arizona Sr.
20 Minn Limas Sweed WR Texas Sr.
21 Tenn Adarius Bowman WR Oklahoma State Sr.
22 TB Barry Richardson OT Clemson Sr.
23 Dal (Clev) DeSean Jackson WR Cal Jr.
24 SD Dan Conner MLB Penn State Sr.
25 Sea Fred Davis TE USC Sr.
26 NYG Mike Jenkins CB South Florida Sr.
27 Jax Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma Jr.
28 Pitt Derrick Harvey DE Florida Jr.
29 SF (Indy) Chris Williams OT Vanderbilt Sr.
30 GB Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon Jr.
31 Dal Felix Jones RB Arkansas Jr.
32 NE Forfeit (Spy Gate)
December 19th, 2007 at 9:20 am
1980..lol…truste me you don´t want me singing anything…play a cd instead..
Nice interview with Grady Jackson, remembers Darrell Russell and his times as a Raider….nice guy.
http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/121907/jag_226782317.shtml
December 19th, 2007 at 9:23 am
Here’s the first 10 picks from another site:
Miami Dolphins: Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
What do the Dolphins need? Hmmm… we might as well figure out what they don’t need. I can’t see a quarterback; John Beck will get a shot to run the offense in 2008 despite his early struggles. Darren McFadden is an option, but with Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams on the roster, Miami will look elsewhere. Receiver and tight end are definite needs, but unless they trade down, the Dolphins won’t be taking those here. As for the defense, they need upgrades everywhere. The offensive line could use a boost, but that’s way down the list.
With that in mind, tough decision between Jake Long and Glenn Dorsey. I know some other mock drafts have the former going to South Beach, but the Dolphins have given just two sacks per game this year. They also run the ball extremely well, as Ronnie Brown and Jesse Chatman have averaged a combined 4.6 yards per carry. The main reason Miami is 0-13 is because it cannot stop anyone; the defense is ranked 31st, surrendering 27.3 points per game. They gave up more than 40 to the Jets, for crying out loud.
Glenn Dorsey has dominated the line of scrimmage almost every game this year. He slowed down toward the end, but that’s attributed to injury. The Dolphins’ decrepit stop unit needs help everywhere, starting up front. Dorsey can instantly improve a defense ranked dead last in rushing yards allowed.
New England Patriots: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
Out of the three-loss teams, the 49ers are ranked the worst on my NFL Power Rankings Page (http://walterfootball.com/analysis.php).
I can’t believe New England may go 19-0 and draft in the top three come next April. How ridiculous is that? Whom do the Patriots take up here? They don’t really need anything, except for a cornerback if Asante Samuel leaves, and a linebacker even though Belichick never drafts them. But it’s still too early to select any corner or linebacker, even James Laurinaitis. The Patriots may decide to pick the best player available, which is easily Darren McFadden. If they’re scoring 39 points per game right now, how sick are they going to be with McFadden and Laurence Maroney rotating at running back?
Atlanta Falcons: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
I really feel sorry for Atlanta fans. They go from having their best quarterback traded to Houston, to watching their current signal caller get thrown in prison for slaughtering dogs. Then, they have to decide between the piano-playing Joey Harrington, the cheeseburger-eating Byron Leftwich and the weak-armed Chris Redman. Is there any doubt the Falcons won’t be drafting a quarterback?
The Falcons need a major upgrade at the signal-caller position and a true leader in the locker room. Given the way Matt Ryan commanded his squad over Virginia Tech and Clemson in the clutch, Atlanta may decide to make him the franchise’s future at quarterback. I would say that Brian Brohm is also an option, but I seriously doubt Arthur Blank trusts anyone from the University of Louisville right now.
One more thing - don’t count out Jake Long; Atlanta’s offensive line is in shambles and desperately needs upgrades. The team may choose to take a quarterback with one of their two second-round selections. However, the need for a franchise signal caller is too paramount for it not to be addressed.
St. Louis Rams: Jake Long, OT, Michigan
Orlando Pace is one of the top offensive tackles in the game, but he has missed significant time the past two seasons. Without Pace on the line, the Rams simply cannot score consistently. They need to do something about this, because as far as I’m concerned, Pace is unreliable at this stage of his career.
Chris Long is definitely an option, but St. Louis cannot allow Marc Bulger to be sacked six times per week. He’s too good a quarterback for that to happen.
New York Jets: Chris Long, DE, Virginia
The Jets are 3-10 because Chad Pennington sucked it up the first half of the year, and they have only 22 sacks through 13 contests this season. Kellen Clemens seems to be the answer at quarterback, meaning New York will need to draft someone who can get to opposing signal callers in their 3-4 defense.
I know Darren McFadden will be tempting if he’s available, but can Eric Mangini really survive another year with his defensive line getting pushed around like 8-year-old girls? If the Jets draft McFadden, they’ll have tons of money wrapped up at the running back position, with a ridiculous amount of holes on defense. I think the Jets will think about drafting McFadden or attempt to trade out of this selection. But in the end, I believe they’ll end up with Vernon Gholston or Chris Long.
Kansas City Chiefs: Sam Baker, OT, USC
Brodie Croyle actually looked pretty decent at Indianapolis, so maybe the Chiefs will hold off on drafting a quarterback and give their young gun-slinger a year to prove himself. With that in mind, Sam Baker and Ryan Clady become serious options to improve the offensive line. I know there are better prospects available at this juncture, but Kansas City cannot afford to surrender 43 sacks in 12 games again.
Oakland Raiders: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
Oakland’s defense has regressed a lot this year. You can look at the defensive line, which has produced only 21 sacks through 14 weeks and can’t stop the run. It’s so bad at the tackle position that the Raiders took a shot on Gerard Warren. Warren Sapp, meanwhile, turns 35 in December. Sedrick Ellis, whose draft stock is soaring, seems like a good fit here.
Baltimore Ravens: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
Tons of options here, including DeSean Jackson, Vernon Gholston and Ryan Clady. However, something I’ve been putting off for Baltimore is a quarterback at this spot. In the wake of Kyle Boller playing like Kyle Boller against the Indianapolis Colts, I can’t see the Ravens going with either him or Steve McNair next year. Whether that means trading for Donovan McNabb, or drafting either Brian Brohm or Andre’ Woodson, Baltimore seriously needs to upgrade the signal-caller position if it wants to return to the postseason.
Carolina Panthers: Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
James Laurinaitis, Calais Campbell and Vernon Gholston are all options here. While Laurinaitis would be a great replacement for the oft-injured Dan Morgan, I have to believe the Panthers will opt for a defensive end, especially considering that they have just 16 sacks this year. They definitely need a upgrade over Mike Rucker.
I love what I’ve seen out of Gholston this year; he has 10 sacks and beat Jake Long in the Michigan game. His projected 40 time, in the mid-4.5s, is excellent considering he’s about 260 pounds. He’s moved himself up draft boards, and has become a top-15 prospect. I think he’ll continue to increase his stock,
December 19th, 2007 at 9:23 am
Consider that Mock VERY WRONG. We don’t even have the 6th pick. Its like pick 8 right now.
1. Miami (1-13)
2. St. Louis (3-11)
3. New York Jets (3-11)
4. Atlanta (3-11)
5. New England (from San Francisco) (4-10)
6. Baltimore (4-10)
7. Kansas City (4-10)
8. Oakland (4-10)
9. Cincinnati (5-9)
December 19th, 2007 at 9:24 am
1980..lol…truste me you don´t want me singing anything…play a cd instead..
pft´s one liners has an interview with Grady Jackson, remembers Darrell Russell and his times as a Raider….nice guy.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:26 am
Well if anyone knows Ellis is Kiffin so I´m sure he´ll make the right call on him.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:26 am
The first mock was last updated Dec 11th, so it didn’t include last week’s games.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:32 am
If Eugene can put on a little more bulk without losing quickness and agility, he can intimidate receivers going over the middle. Eugene layed wood on the colts Tight end.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:38 am
We will have all spring and summer to figure out mock drafts when the order is set, so I’m not looking too hard at that yet. Maybe it just disgusts me that the Pats might have a top three pick. Goodell should have taken the higher pick when he punished them, but the league never minds doing little favors for the Pats.
1 - Tuck Rule leads to 1st SB.
2 - Dubious holding call in Balt leads to 16-0.
3 - Weak punishment for CHEATING might lead to top 3
pick.
Guess those favors aren’t so little after all.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:39 am
Addai over Taylor and Merriman over Phillips or Howard shows that it is a popularity contest. Nobody from Jacksonville? They will be pissed, the Raiders are toast this week. Congrats to Lechler.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:44 am
Cromartie over Namdie thats easy how many interceptions…its a numbers game and popularity contest simple as that. You have to be pretty myopic to really be upset about any of those.
December 19th, 2007 at 9:49 am
Did we ever figure wtf Art Modell was talking about when he said Al was a great disappointment to him professionally?
That’s George Bush saying he’s disappointed in FDR’s presidency…
December 19th, 2007 at 9:49 am
How the hell did NE get a first rounder from 49ers and we gave NE moss for a 4th rounder. Is no. cal. belichicks bitch or is something stupid in H2o up there!! proud So. Cal Raider fan, Ha!