A few minutes with Ryan
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Friday, February 22nd, 2008 at 1:49 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Raiders defensvie coordinator Rob Ryan stood in the Indianapolis Convention Center hallway with his brother Rex and Raiders linebackers coach Don Martindale, talking to friends and telling unprintable stories.
Then he stopped for a few minutes to go on the record about the turbulent offseason of the Raiders. Included since the end of a 4-12 season were reports that coach Lane Kiffin wanted Ryan out as defensive coordinator.
Much ado about nothing, Ryan insists.
“It was a joke to me, but I don’t care who you are, you get a little upset when you see your name flashed across the board that you’ve been fired. When it’s not true it kind of pisses you off,” Ryan said. “I mean, what you can you do? There’s a difference between fact and fiction, and the fact is I’m with the Oakland Raiders and I want to be with the Oakland Raiders.”
He professed to be oblivious regarding reports that Kiffin wanted him out.
“Everything is fine. I don’t know if there was anything written about that or not, but if there was, whatever,” Ryan said. “Some people get it right, some don’t. Everybody’s got a job to do. You guys have got a job to do, get information, get the story out there, but my job is to coach defense and that’s what I do. I don’t know, some information is correct, some of it’s not, and I don’t know how it gets out there, but that’s not my job to know.”
Ryan said the Raiders were busy self-scouting, evaluating college talent and working on ways to improve.
“You’ve got what you see as your needs and you’re identifying all the prospects and it’s a great thing, getting a first look at some of these guys,” Ryan said. “The advantage for us us we did coach in the Senior Bowl so we feel we know a good portion of the guys, but it’s obviously important. You can’t improve a team more than with personnel.”
Ryan said he was optimistic about the club bringing back defensive end Chris Clemons and was ecstatic about the franchise tag given to Nnamdi Asomugha.
“Mr. Davis knew he was player when he got him, and he’s such a great player, a great person. It’s great to keep him,” Ryan said.
Still no sign of coach Kiffin, who a Raiders team employee said was due to arrive Friday evening.
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February 22nd, 2008 at 1:50 pm
first
February 22nd, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Hmmm…might we actually hear a word or three from Kid Lane in the near future?
February 22nd, 2008 at 1:57 pm
As the Raider World turns…
February 22nd, 2008 at 1:57 pm
So Al has been playing head games with the media all along?
Old time Raider fans could have told anyone and everyone that some time ago and saved a few folks in here from freaking out like someone had just stole their purse.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:01 pm
Ryan’s a purposely boring interview.
Good for him.
He knows alot of writers (Poole, Gay, ect.) love to twist words and bash the Raiders any chance they get.
Nnamdi needed to be franchised. He doesn’t deserve and hasn’t earned a lengthy massive contract…yet.
Oakland could selcet a Tackle to protect its QB investment and still have a shot a shoring the center of their porous run D in later rounds.
SCOPE!
Ganked from the awesome (if I say so myself. And I DO) raider nation station.
[B]Moore than enough? [/B]
[I]Can Oakland fix its appalling run D later in the Draft?[/I]
Oaklands deplorable play against the run should be addressed in this years draft. That much is a given for most Raider fans, but should they spend their 1st rounder on a DT?
There are high prospect DT’s many are looking at including 6-2, 305 lb. USC Senior Sedrick Ellis and fellow Senior, LSU’s 6-2, 303 lb. Glenn Dorsey, but even if, they are available when Oakland uses its 1st round pick, they may elect to pass on Dorsey and Ellis both.
Because Al is a lunatic? It seems that way sometimes…but not in this instance.
Though Oakland desperately needs to find a way to stop the run (They’ve ranked 31st, 29th twice and dead last in as many years) if they ever want to compete again, they will in all likely hood pass on these blue chip defenders in the 1st round of the 2008 Draft.
Why?
Though Sedrick Ellis had a fine showing at the Senior bowl, a flaw was exposed on a National stage.
Ellis looks unstoppable early on, but tends to fade as some games progresses. Certainly he can be Coached up and get more cardio, but he is known as more of a pass rusher than a versatile lane clogger.
The moniker “Baby Sapp” may have been too close for comfort. Oaklands Run Defense with the veteran Super Star pass rusher in the middle was atrocious the last 4 years.
Dorsey on the other hand seems like a pretty solid bet as an immediate contributor to whom ever he goes to, but paying a big man big bucks to clog the middle may remind them of Terdell Sands $17 million dollar disappearing act. Dorsey,To his credit, made 64 tackles and 6 sacks against some of the best College football programs America can offer. His play through a sore knee and back spasms in the back half of his Senior season may, or may not help him 84 days from now.
Fortunately for Oakland there appear to be a couple of options that may fall to the later rounds of day 1 or early in day 2, including:
6-5, 295 lb. North Carolina Senior, Kentwan Balmer. He came on strong to finish his Senior season with 54 tackles and 3.5 sacks.
He is extremely strong and athletic, but some questions remain about his ability to play at the highest level every down.
He’ll fall to the second round because he’s considered a “boom or bust” player. Questions also remain whether he can compete at the NFL level and because of his size, runs the risk of being slapped with the dreaded “Tweener” label.
Balmer would need to bulk up if he wanted to keep from being over powered in the middle, but could do well in a 4-3 if he does, but does Oakland have or want to take the time?
To his credit, the aforementioned Balmer reminds some of recent Oakland noise maker *Tommy Kelly, who’s Free Agent status irks some ansy Raider fans, but the Raiders are probably taking a good look at him after season ending surgery late in the year to his right ACL.
In his favor, the 6-6, 300 lb. Kelly showed relentless hustle and determination in pursuing ball carriers (something his team mates could learn a thing or two about) and played every line position. He evolved into one of the best tacklers on the team, harassed QBs, blocked a field goal and garnered 30 take downs.
* (IF he can come back in the same form, the Raiders would be lucky to have him. )
Paired with Balmer, Burgess and / or Suggs getting paid and / or a good Linebacker from 08’s deep draft and Oakland could improve its Run D drastically.
6-5, 328 lb. Red Bryant out of Texas A& M had another fine season, posting Senior numbers of 54 tackles and 1 sack.
His big wing span let him knock down 9 passes and block 3 kicks in his Collegiant career.
Red is surprisingly fast for his size and combined with his arm strength can get in to disrupt opposing D’s.
He had a solid Senior bowl after a disappointing performance against Penn State in the Alamo Bowl.
But, should neither of these players be Oaklands cup of tea or go prematurely, there could be Moore.
At 311lbs. and standing 6-4, Marylands Dre Moore has a heighth advantage too. Plus, he has great speed, strength and power, but will likely fall due in part to his heighth and his tendency to not get down low enough. Coupled with the fact he hasn’t been playing football that long and lacks great technique and instincts, he could feasibly, be available in day 2.
Can Oakland shore the leaky Raider run D in the later rounds of the Draft? One things for sure, they couldn’t do much worse.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:02 pm
A’s Mom, some of us did throw such ideas out there, but most people went for the ‘if there’s smoke there’s fire’ angle. Rather than somebody blowing smoke.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:04 pm
That first thing is so lame and its funny after every blog post someone is happy they did it…
Very glad to hear Ryan talking about wanting to be with the Raiders, one thing the defense doesn’t get enough credit for is the big plays that were made to keep us in games: Morrison INT in the end zone vs DET, Howard TD returns vs DEN & SD…those games could have been blow outs (and ended our post season hopes earlier than week
but the D made big plays, despite getting continually ran over upfront…if we can solidify the run D, we have something special, for sure something in the realm of best in the league…
Ryan can’t tackle for us, he can only call defense that put our players in a position to make plays, it wasn’t the schemes that lost us the games…
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:06 pm
So now everyone that hates Al Davis will say Ryan is just lying and blowing smoke, right? Anyone who threatened to jump ship when a bunch of these classless, so-called sports writers just tried to sell more papers and get more website hits should be ashamed of themselves.
I’m getting more excited now about next season. It can’t get here soon enough.
Go Raiders.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Are we all on this blog now. I just finished posting at the “Falcons Pick Third” blog, then refreshed, and noticed this story.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:08 pm
It would be funny if Al was toying with the media and we were winning. But when you’re 15-49 over 4 years, it’s just plain pathetic.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:09 pm
Thank you for the post Jerry. Wish you could’ve written the tales that Rex and Rob and Don were talking about.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:13 pm
What is pathetic Liver? The media for dissing on Oaktown no matter their record? or that someone would have the temerity to beat the blowhards at their own game?
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Amen, post 10. I was one of the “where there’s smoke, there’s fire” given the recent history of our organization. It sounded too familiar. Not sure I’m convinced that it was all Al toying with the media yet. Rob Ryan dodged the Kiffin question about their relationship by first saying everything was okay, but quickly reverted and said, “I coach the defense, that’s all I can control”…”One man calls the shots in Oakland and that Al Davis”…”His decision was for me to come back”…not sure if these are exact quotes, so I’m paraphrasing to a degree, but this will give you gist for what I heard. HIs statements were obvious that there could have been some turmoil and that “AL” wanted him back.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:15 pm
hey can someone ask “THE ROBRYAN” if he plans on bringing back the VAUNTED “dual role saftey” or the “big 3 safety package” , or the “4-1-6 wolverine”
or the ” 4 - 1- 6 w/ 4 def ends 2 up 2 down!
(that was the 05 defense that also went last in just about everything!!)
cause i’m just dyin to know what revolutionary defense he is gonna talk up this preseason! thats another thing about this guy , he talks up a defense! then he doesnt really stick to it thru course of a game!!!
” the dual role safety ” is somehting i’m still waiting to see unveiled, he neverused it last year!after he cut all the strong safteys’ on roster! he just went back to the same old alignemnt every down! every game every time!!
what i recall was kiffy saying BING was the s.s., & huff is a freesfty, then ryan tells the media , not lane that he is playing the “dual role saftey” system!and the way that works is “the 2 SFTYS’ b4 snap stay motionless, and which ever side the tegoes to ,THAT SAFETY COVERS HIM!!
humm now that sounds like a DUMBASS,RYANESQUE WAY TO SAY ,
U AINT PLAYIN BING@SS,AND HUFF@ FS,
CAUSE THEN MY BOYFRIEND STU (RAT,FLY ON THE WALL,)
WONT HAVE A JOB! AND I GOT AL THINKING THAT HE IS GOOD PLAYER,THAT HE JUST NEEDS TIME!
AND ALL THE OTHER PLAYERS DONT LIKE HIM CAUSE HE IS JEWISH! SO I PLAY THAT ANGLE UP WITH MY JEWISH BOSS
SO THAT HE’LL THINK I’M ON HIS SIDE AND HE WONT FIRE ME!! AHH DAAH!!!AND PLUS IF YOU PUT BING @ MLBR’ ITS’ A MISMATCH!!!! THAT EXPLANS HIS NECK INJURY!!!!
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:18 pm
Ryan is the D-Coordinator.he does not teach people to tackle,that’s the position coaches job,not his.but it is his job to make sure the other coaches are doing their jobs.maybe the position coaches are the problem,not RR.to those of you who complain you never say Brayton make any plays,you must not watch the games,or you’re blind.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Anyone else feel that maybe Coach Ryan should get a restraining order against SOULPATROL2? The guy has scary hatred for Ryan. Scary hatred. Though I don’t read much more than the first line of his posts. Sorry but never putting a space for paragraphs and all caps make it hard to read man.
Go Raiders.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:20 pm
I just read John Clayton’s blog, & he mention the deep class of tackles in this draft. Also, it won’t be a suprise if Miami takes Jake Long with the first pick. Damn it! I want the FA period to start already!!
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:21 pm
The only hit I ever seen Brayton lay was when he kneed Jeremey Stevens in the nuts
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:23 pm
all u guys comin up with draft a deftackle, draft a s.s., then draft a lbr!!! what do u think is gonna happen when they show up @ minis’ in april!!??
well dorsey or whoever is gonna play NOSEGUARD?? or lbr ,then the new s.s. he’ll be a MLBR ! THEN THE olbr
will be put at STRONGSIDE DEF TACKLE!!!!
in some new freak style def ryan is gonna conjure up to contend with kiffin,breathing down his neck! and seeing that he is gonna talk up a new defense ,
that will explain why practices are slow & stupid!!!like ive been told by x-players/that have seen them!!
then the new s.s. will play MLBR !!LIKE BING!!!! & HUFF A NAT FRE SFTY PLAYS @ LBR DEPTH!!WOW WHAT A CREATION!!
IN THIS NEW style d by that loser ryan CONJURES!!
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:23 pm
memo-then you don’t watch Raider games,or you’re blind
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:25 pm
NO SIGN OF KIFFIN?
I AM THE HEAD COACH.
B!TCHES!
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:25 pm
You’re right Lefty, Brayton was a great asset to the Raiders D. He sure was worth a 1st RD pick
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:27 pm
Tyler Brayton celebrating:
http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f180/pylot_mantis/retard-1.jpg
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:28 pm
that isn’t what i said.he wasn’t worth a 1st.he wasn’t all-pro.but he was a contributor,and he did make plays.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:30 pm
Does Flozell Adams fit the zone blocking scheme? I heard dallas relaeased him.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:30 pm
I have just woken up in some parallel redneck universe or was Rob ‘Bubba’ Ryan really an extra in the movie Deliverance?
Are you talking bulls**t, Mr Ryan?
Yes siree, Bob.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:31 pm
I see your point, but then you will have to say Stu Schewigert was a contributor & made plays. If anything, Stu has better stats than Brayton.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:32 pm
Brayton has been a cun+ hair better than Stuart Schweigert.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Scottish - I am interested in your use of the word “redneck.”
What do you mean by that?
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:36 pm
haha got caught replying on the last blog,,,so here goes
They Call Me Assassin
Thanks for the info on the Ryan Interview…
Wolverine Raider
37 reps at 225 is TANGIBLE. Highest among OL’s? Didn’t Gallery have a pretty paltry total for OL’s? You make good points on Jake Longs Intagibles…
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:39 pm
I was right. There was a character called Bobby (a.k.a.Rob Ryan) in Deliverance.
For movie fans, here are some memorable quotes:
Lewis: Can that chubby boy handle himself?
Ed: Rob Ryan? He’s rather well thought of in his field, Lewis
Rob Ryan: I had my first wet dream in a sleepin’ bag.
Ed: How was it?
Rob Ryan: Great.
Rob Ryan: There’s no repeatin’ it.
Mountain Man: I’m gonna make you squeal like a pig. Weeeeeeee!
Rob Ryan: Weee!
Mountain Man: Weeeeeeee!
Rob Ryan: Weee!
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Memo-stu was.these guys weren’t the best at their positions in the NFL but they did ontribute on our team.and stu was the best at his position on our team.do we need someone better-sure.but they both did as they were asked.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:44 pm
post #23 LMFAO!!!
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Stuart Schweigert is a cun+ hair better player than most high school safeties.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:47 pm
but he’s a hell of alot better than you-RRPL
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Well then everybody on the team contributed. I’ve seen Tyler make a tackle behind the line of scrimmage & I know the guys has a motor…but he still sucks.
I see your point; I guess I got a lil defensive when you said “those of you who complain you never say Brayton make any plays,you must not watch the games,or you’re blind.”
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:48 pm
M….
It was just fun to see some of the more “knowledgable” posters here go nuts.
Prozac nation
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Lefty, you are a moron. Lay off the crack pipe.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:54 pm
And I think Chris Long could be another Tyler Brayton.
Brayton was outstanding at college-level but there was nothing left in the tank for the pros. Chris Long was a giant for VTech but how much physical improvement or technical improvement is still possible?
His father was a real hero and he is a very good kid, but I don’t see anything like the upside you would expect in a top 3 pick.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:55 pm
I think LT has to come first for the raiders, it would be nice if we could get a Flozell Adams in FA, then we could go for D-Line in the draft, weather it be C.Long, G.Dorsey,or S.Ellis, but if we cant fill LT in FA, we have to draft there. J. Long, who could be coached up to play the zone scheme, or Clady who already has expirence in the scheme.
Bottom line is that you have have to score points to win,if Simms is our LT next year, we wont score many points. Simms is pathetic, and if we were to replace him with an elite lineman such as Long or Clady, the team would be drastically improved!
In addition to that, we are extreemly thin in WR. I think we should gun for Berrian and Stallworth, the more depth the better.GET SOME WEAPONS OUT THERE!
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Memo-here is my point.last year Brayton made at least 3 stops on 4th and 1 or 4th and goal.burgess made 8 sacks,but when he didn’t get a sack opposing RBs ran free around his end.Brayton is crucified,Burgess is a hero.seldom if ever did Burgess make a key stop on a running play.now i’m not knocking Burgess,just pointing out how different players are treated differently.
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:57 pm
Lefty likes when Brayton dresses up like this for him:
http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f180/pylot_mantis/retard-1.jpg
February 22nd, 2008 at 2:58 pm
RRPL-have another.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:01 pm
what do you guys think about post #40,agree/disagree?
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:04 pm
Memo-i didn’t mean to get personal.sorry man.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:06 pm
Lefty 12
I must admit you have tried to point out all aspects of Brayton and the role he plays vs others.
I have blogged with you in the past, my only comment is Brayton is no longer a Raider, you must know this, he excercised his right to opt out of his final year on his contract and is now free to seek other employment.
Sorry to get in the middle, between RRPC just wanted to put in my cen$s.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:08 pm
I don’t even want to know where Lefty asks Brayton to stick those nunchucks..
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:10 pm
I agree C4. I just have a bad taste when the Raiders took a tackle out of the Big 10 last time they drafted a O-linemen in the 1st RD
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:11 pm
MVH
Nice post at #5.
I’m still resolved that our #1 & #2 picks should be for Ellis DT, USC and I’ll buy off on Red Bryant DT, Texas A&M. Shoring up the middle of our D-Line should be out #1 objective. We’re fortunate that this years draft is very deep in lineman. We are additionally fortunate that Tom Gable’s blocking scheme does not require a 1st round LOT skill level. Quite the contrary, adequate prospects will be found in the 3rd & 4th rounds.
I’d like us to trade AW to Atlanta fit their 3rd round pick. Atlanta would be smart in doing so. That way they’d have an experienced QB to help bring up the new QB they are going to draft in their #1 spot. We could use the acquired pick for the best WR, OLT or safety.
Has Smith from the Niner’s been picked up yet? If not we should go after him in FA and move Morrison to the strong side LB position.
It’s important that Kelley return healthy and resign a long term contract. If the above happens, all we need to do is upgrade at safety and we will be a top 3 defense.
As far as the O goes, it’s all about the running game first followed closely by the play action pass. actually, we should put Higgins in on every play and have him run a deep post on every play. If nothing else, he’ll take 2 defenders with him deep on every play. Sooner or later, he’ll pop open and JR can go deep.
I can’t wait, let’s get started. It’s only a matter of time before we become a dominant force once again. AD, Please leave Kiffin alone. Support his needs and requests and don’t screw a good thing up.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:12 pm
No worries dude…but Raider Dell has a good point. The guy opt out & he aint going to get much of a contract now that he is a FA.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:13 pm
C4
Disagree on #40. See post #49 for my take.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:13 pm
I know what you mean Memo, Gallery was sort of a bust, but turned out to be a pretty good guard in our scheme, i hope we push for F. Adams in the FA, but if we cant get him, LT has to be or #1 concern. JR must be protected. No QB is worth a dang W/O protection.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Soon th be 16
SINCE SUPER BOWL 1:
DIVISION TITLES: RAIDERS 15 - BRONCOS 10 - CHARGERS 8 - CHIEFS 6 -
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:17 pm
MVH,
Interesting rundown, bror. Gotta say, I think you missed a few. Pat Sims from Auburn will go high, and he is a solid nose man. There’s a kid outta Iowa State, Rubin Ahtyba who will go late but has significant upside as a two-gapper. And then local boy makes bad, former Fresno State DT Jason Shirley, might be a UFA of interest.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:18 pm
C4
The QB is not at risk on a ball control running team. That’s what we will be first. We need a 1st round OLT like we need a 2nd A-hole.
Defense wins championships. Always have, always will. Until our D is outstanding we will only be a mediocre team.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:20 pm
I’d like to have a beer or two with Rob, Rex, and John “Get that Fn’ Keg In Here” Fox. Cool dudes.
So all this time, Al was just trying to give the people some material to keep the Raiders in the headlines. Upstage undefeated, upstage the Super Bowl. Upstage 18-1. The man is brilliant. Played the media like a silver and black les paul.
Playoffs? You kiddin’ me? Playoffs? Hell Yeah we’re going to the playoffs!!!! I’m in like Sin.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:26 pm
—”Steelers released CB/PR Allen Rossum.
Rossum would’ve only cost the Steelers $770,000 in 2008, but they have Willie Reid ready to handle punts, if he can stay healthy. It’s safe to that say Rossum is no longer the fastest man in the NFL.
Feb. 22 - 4:32 p.m. ET”—
He was a beast some years ago, I would give him a chance in Oakland!
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:29 pm
I had a post yesterday how the coin flip would go down in a joking way.
I had time to flip a simple quarter 40 times in my office and called heads each time.
I was right 29 times, for a 72.5%.
I’m amazed the Raiders can’t get a coin flip to go there way.
Call me boring, just wanted to see the odds for flipping up a quarter and the results.
Remind me to never to take Jon Kingdom, to Vegas with me or if you see him run away.
That’s two coin flips he’s lost, remove all doubt and let’s not even flip a coin if he’s the representative of the Raiders.
I know the spin is the fourth pick will save us money, who cares your not paying him and when the draft board starts to squeeze some of you will be retracting your statement.
I WANTED TO WIN!!!! THE COIN TOSS
I hate losing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:31 pm
LMN
Why not give Fabian Washington a shot at returns? He certainly should have adequate hands and his main claim to fame is his speed. He’s getting a hefty salary to just be a #3 or #4 DB. Let get more bang for our buck.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:32 pm
Hey guys,
Drop me a line.
Much Love,
Barry Sive
http://barrysims.net/contact.html
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:34 pm
JB i agree about fabian Washington. I know you dont agree about OLT but what about what i said about the WR position in post 40?
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:38 pm
RaiderDell, wasn’t it a foregone conclusion?
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Rob Says:
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:20 pm
“Played the media like a silver and black les paul.”
Sweet line bro
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Raider Dell - You are Boring.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:42 pm
I would rather have Devonn Bess or Ryan Gryce-Mullin or David Rivers than any Donte Stallworth. Give me someone who is willing to fight for the damn ball!
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:43 pm
Unknown Says:
February 22nd, 2008 at 1:42 pm
“RaiderDogg
So far the warriors game isnt going to be on Tvu or sopcast tonight.
The link is http://www.MyP2P.eu
Click on live sports at the top of the page, basketball, and saturday for todays game. They are 1 day of the US for some reason.
Maybe later the feed will appear.
I’m going to watch my Mavericks whip up on the grizzlies tonight on tvants!”
Unknown -
Thanks for the info, I really appreciate it. Have a good time watching the Mavs. Will JKidd be suiting up tonight?
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:45 pm
Drop me a line Homies!! I love hearing feedback from the fans:
http://barrysims.net/contact.html
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:46 pm
“Everything is fine. I don’t know if there was anything written about that or not, but if there was, whatever,” Ryan said. “Some people get it right, some don’t. Everybody’s got a job to do. You guys have got a job to do, get information, get the story out there, but my job is to coach defense and that’s what I do. I don’t know, some information is correct, some of it’s not, and I don’t know how it gets out there, but that’s not my job to know.”
*****
Ryan is clearly speaking like a man who knows the owner has his back…if his “job” is to “coach defense,” then why on God’s green earth has our defense been so terrible in the four years he’s been “coaching” our defense?!? His record here has been posted ad nauseum on this blog, so there’s no need to dig up stats, but when he says “everything’s fine,” given the context of his defense’s performance, I can’t help but think that Al has his back…
His own wife has even pointed out the obvious–WE TACKLE POORLY–and this is an area WHERE GOOD COACHING CAN CLEARLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Several posters have written about how so many of our secondary guys whiff simply because of poor angles taken to try and tackle the ballcarrier; isn’t that what watching film is supposed to correct?!? The mistake is there for all to see, and the proper adjustments then need to take place as soon as they put the pads on and hit the field; what is it that I’m missing???
Again, as a baseball guy, I don’t have the deep knowledge to deconstruct Ryan’s D, and why it’s so ineffective–BUT I KNOW GOOD COACHING WHEN I SEE IT. It’s easy to see; a good coach, barring injuries, WILL ALWAYS GET THE MOST OUT OF HIS PLAYERS.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:46 pm
JB…
funny! In fact I suggested that some days ago =)
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:47 pm
If you’re a Head Coach of a team…wouldn’t you want to be at the Scouting Combine the minute it opened up? Why would you show up on Friday when everything started on Tuesday? Even then…Kiffin still hasn’t been seen up to this point? Something smells fishy around here.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:49 pm
M
My reply is from the movie Shawshank Redemption when he (Tim Robbins) tells red in his letter (Morgan Freeman) (hope is a good thing and the best of things..etc..)
I have hope, sometimes I wonder though.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:49 pm
C4
I agree we are thin at WR. Especially if JP hits the road. We do have Bucannon, Watkins, Drisan & McFoy in the wings along with Higgins, Holland & Curry sitting in the wings so it’s not like the roster is bare. Out TE position with Miller & Madsen is strong. Personally, I like to work a Burgess trade with the Bengals for Chad Johnson. Probably wishful thinking. I also think will find some talent in the draft. Just remember, Marques Colston, a starting WR for the Saints was a 7th round pick who surprised everyone. Lightening can and does strike in the same spot at times. Keep a positive thought.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:49 pm
The Koolest website there is, yo!
http://barrysims.net/contact.html
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:50 pm
If there isn’t anybody else out there to protect JR, then we need to go after Flozell Adams. I know hes 33. I believe he probably has 4-5 years left so give him a 4 year contract with a 5th year option and pay the guy the money. Its worth the investment in making sure that our million dollar man is protected. It can’t be that hard to cut block on run downs. If Adams acidentally mawls someone instead of cut blocking him…oh darn. This guy knows how to protect and he did a great job last year. Thats the main idea anyways. Protect the QB…vote for Adams. We can still draft someone to groom and succeed him at a later date.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:54 pm
sorry guys about my last few posts…I had not read all the posts, articles or comments yet…
usually there is only one or two new items per week and I did not realize that so much news had come out of Raider medialand
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:55 pm
Agreed RaiderDell, hope is a wonderful thing. But hoping that the sun will come up in the west tomorrow might be futile.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:56 pm
I was mad when I first found out that we were picking 4th but you know what? Its a blessing in disguise. Thats alot of money saved in between picks and we can still get a decent player with less risk involved. I’m happy with the 4th pick. Lets root for the 32nd pick for next year.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:56 pm
Good afternoon Mr. Flores.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Tom Flores - No need to apologize. You shouldn’t be required to know everything. Thats why we’re all here.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:58 pm
31st pick, Huff, NE might not get another pick in the next decade.
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:58 pm
Barry Sive has been making $5 million per year allowing our QB’s to get destroyed. Nice Work on that contract Al!
http://content.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/salaries/playerdetail.aspx?lname=Sims&player=2082
February 22nd, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Huff
Henderson may already be that person in the wings. I trust that Gable knows what he’s doing and will find the right person for the right position. We all know Simms has seen better days and relief is needed badly at OLT. I have faith the both Kiffin and Cable also recognize that fact and will do whatever necessary to fix the problem. Like I said earlier, under Cables ZBS, we don’t need an Orlando Pace type to get the job done. Cable/Kiffin will find or develop the right guy for the job. As far as we know, the right guy may already be on the roster.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:00 pm
Raiderdogg
Yeah he’ll play. He played the other night against the Hornets.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:01 pm
Raiderdell
Are you a hope monger like Barack Obama?
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:02 pm
JB–good points on your #49 post, especially on sending AW to Atlanta for their 3rd round pick. We can then use that pick to pick up that LT, if FA doesn’t produce anything for us. I’m not too sure about JLH as a productive WR for us, though; he still plays like a nervous deer, not very confident and wide-eyed.
Huff24–good to see you back posting. I agree with your idea on going after Flozell Adams. If the money is right, then, I too say go get him. We need the money for a DT anyway; if we can’t get Flozell, then we can draft a LT later in the draft.
Several of us are of the opinion that if Jake Long is still available to us at #4, then we should go after him. I still hold to my position that we need a DT FIRST AND FOREMOST. Our run D has suffered enough; we need to plug that sieve once and for all, and do it through the draft. Our run O gained A TON of respectibility this past season, and by using a bunch of retreads for an O line. That example alone should be enough to convince most people that WE CAN SUCCEED RUNNING THE BALL without having to draft a O lineman in the 1st round.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:02 pm
MaddenRaider - I had to comment on a post you made in one of the previous blogs regarding the players on defense not playing hard and I have to disagree with you on one aspect. First…I would agree that 10 starters did not perform at the level they needed to but you would have to agree that Asomugha was the most consistent player on the defense. He was rarely thrown to for a reason and thats because he was blanketing players. Granted…with so many weaknesses along the defense, it would be easier to avoid him but he could have easily gotten lazy like Charles Woodson did and gotten beat for big plays.
The fact is…he didn’t so I don’t want any credit to be taken away from him. You know as well as I do that this scheme isn’t exactly fooling anybody but if I was to pick anybody to play man in this league right now…I’d pick Asomugha. You’d have to believe there is a reason people stayed away from him and its too bad that he didn’t make the Pro Bowl because stats usually wins that game unless you’re Unnatural like Deion Sanders and nobody can claim that.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:03 pm
M - Thats funny. I’ll take the 55th pick for all I care…as long as we win the Superbowl.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:05 pm
i would love to see a D. Burgess Chad Johnson trade JB, good call. it might be plausable too, considiering the bengals extreemly poor defense last year, and the fact that CJ has made it obvious that he wants out. that would be way better than picking up Berrian.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:05 pm
For the better part of a decade Barry Sims gave what he had for the Silver and Black. I understand that he is not the answer, but an undrafted guy walks in and no matter who, Collins, Stinchcomb, Gallery all drafted to be the next savior at LT, the guy beat them out. Perhaps by default, but give the guy his props. I hope he has a good retirement.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:06 pm
JB - No doubt about it. The cut blocking system seems to favor the running game more than the passing game. I believe you can have less talent on the O-Line if you run more but you still have to have talent on the O-Line if you want to pass block well. I do agree that Cable knows what hes doing and he will find the right people. Henderson could be ready for next year but I want to make sure that JR is protected.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:08 pm
Does Atlanta stil trade for Walter even though they have the #3 overall? Would they use their #1 and #3 picks on a QB? That seems like a bit much to me. I can understand getting a QB to fill the void for a year while the rookie learns but not at the price of a 3rd round pick. I just don’t see it happening.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:09 pm
Unknown
I thought Barack was talking about “CHANGE”, we have had enough of that in recent years, as Raider fans to need any more changes.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:09 pm
DesertRaider24 - The only way we shouldn’t go after a DT is if Chris Long is available. Either way…it has to be defensive line but I would agree that getting a DT is more of a need.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:13 pm
C4 - Another thing to consider is Justin Smith is a free agent from the Bengals right? They will need a DE even more because of it.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:13 pm
Last year was the first year of a Cable ZBS for our beat-up O-Line. They made giant improvements over the prior year. If they can make a like type improvement jump again, things will be good.
No doubt that Simms is ready for the bench (back-up) or retirement. He’s provided many good years of performance and for that, I say thanks Barry. It’s time to move on and I’m hopeful that the 2nd year of the ZBS will provide big dividends. There will be a new OLT. We just don’t know who it is yet. Keep your faith in Tom Cable - one of Kiffin’s greatest selections so far.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Huff24–Chris Long BEFORE Dorsey or Ellis? Hmmm…while the kid IS a player, and he obviously has a legacy, we really need to shore up that middle. Don’t get me wrong; the idea of having Howie’s boy is cool (especially if he ends up being as All World as his dad was), but…let’s just say I’m really tired of hearing Greg Papa say “and another ten-yard burst by LT up the gut for a first down…”
Word around the campfire is that the Falcons are taking a long look at McFadden…the kid not only has the gifts, but given the past season the Falcons had, they really need to make a statement to their fans that they’re serious about winning, and drafting DMac would definitely put “the asses in the seats…”
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Bu-Bye Barry… Don’t let the door hit ya in the a$$
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Huff
We spent a 4th round last year for a back-up/mentor QB who can’t throw longer than 12 yards accurately. Granted we also got a hands of stone receiver with him but my point is that AW is definitely worth a 3rd round pick. He’s experienced and can toss the long ball accurately. we already seen what happens to a team without a decent QB. Atlanta needs to give their new QB time to mature and develop. AW will give them the opportunity to develop the new QB correctly while still having a decent QB at the helm.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:21 pm
True Huff, The Raiders should deffinantly offer that trade to Cinci, if it worked we would be set for our Deep threat.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:24 pm
JB–as long as Al “just gets out of the way,” then Kiff will be able to get Cable to deliver on the running game. Maybe that should be Al’s new slogan…”just get out of the way, baby…”
Enjoy the combine, Raider Nation! I’m out…
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:24 pm
however, i heard the cowboys are after CJ too and Jerry Jones usally gets what he wants if he wants it bad enough
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Huff
Lose the romance with Chris Long. He’s a tweener. Even Howie has said that he’s not the star of the family. According to Howie the next son, I don’t remember his name, is the real mauler of the family. We NEED DT’s not DE’s. Let’s wait for Howie’s #2 son and just go with Ellis & Bryant at DT for the #1 & 2 pick.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:26 pm
Im with JB on that huff
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:26 pm
sorry guys Carlton Powell was the DT I tried to remember earlier as a late round DT with enormous upside…part of the Virgina Tech top national defense in 07….6′2″ 301 played 300 snaps 38 tackles 2.5 sacks 6.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage and 7 QB hurries…
he isn’t a superstar but could be a link in the chain in later rounds
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:27 pm
only, however if we get a OLT b4 round two. we need to fill that spot b4 a 2nd DT
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:28 pm
JB I agree with going D line early in the draft but we can get better players than we have now in later rounds too sadly…
We still need an OT and WR out of this draft too…
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:29 pm
i think we should concentrate on Fa for our recievers untill the 3rd or 4th round of the draft Tom Flores
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:30 pm
JB - I’m not saying AW isn’t worth a 3rd round pick. I’m just saying that I don’t think Atlanta will give up that much right now. I hope they do.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:31 pm
does anyone know why Sapp has not filled out his papers and turned them in yet to the NFL players assoc?
Is it possible he is going to reconsider his retirement and come back for a check one more season ???
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:31 pm
I like the idea of trading Burgess for Johnson. Also we should still sign Berrian or Johnson.
Coach Kiff said he talked to Curry at the end of the year and told him how he plans on using him next year.
Lets face it, Curry will never be anything in this league. He doesn’t get in any trouble is fine and good, but 98% of our players didn’t either and how has that worked. Curry’s stats wouldn’t be much better even if he played with Brady or P. Manning.
2 good wr’s is what we must have. The advanced defenses can take away 1wr. That’s what happened with the Colts in the playoffs.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:31 pm
—”NFL Network’s Adam Schefter reports the Lions will trade DT Shaun Rogers within the next week.
Trades can’t be executed until the free agency period begins on February 29. Schefter says at least four teams have shown strong interest in Rogers, whose skill set compares favorably to both Glenn Dorsey and Sedrick Ellis. Rogers has his ups and downs, but most premier interior linemen do. The Lions should be able to get at least a second-round pick for the 28-year-old.
Feb. 22 - 7:24 p.m. ET”—
Well, Night guys, bedtime here
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Here’s a question for all the McFadden fans of whom I was one early on. But, I saw the light.
What does it say when McFadden & Felix’ number are for all intents and purposes are the same? Does it mean that neither are full time RB’s. I know neither are between the tackle runners. That does not bode well for an NFL RB.
We may have the real sleeper RB on our roster already. Bush may come out and blow the field up. I certainly hope he does. A backfield of Bush, Rhodes, Fargas, Echeamundo (a.k.a. Joe), Griffith & O’Neal looks pretty formidable to me. Put that behind a ZBS O=line that works and we are a top 5 running game.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:33 pm
DesertRaider24 - I’m really starting to think that McFadden may be kind of soft. I understand he has athleticism and ability…no doubt but I don’t think he has the toughness. I just saw that he was going to run at the Combine but not bench press. I mean..come on. To me..that says something. After watching him run on YouTube and reading that…he’s not always going to get around the outside in the NFL. Hes not an up the gut type runner who has power. Adrian Peterson will put his shoulder down and punish you. Thats why hes injury prone. McFadden doesn’t have the strength. Hes Reggie Bush and should be a 3rd down back. Period.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:34 pm
Huff24 is right about Flozell…I mean he did make the pro bowl last year so he must have something left in the tank and I sure didn’t see Barry Sims in the pro bowl last year !!!
We do need to draft another LT this year…but Adams is a great insurance policy and will start at LT for 2 years…
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:36 pm
JB - I don’t have a romance for Long. I just want the defensive line to be improved. If for whatever reason we don’t get a DT then we still need to address the defensive line and I think Long can fit the bill at DE. He’s 284 lbs. Hes not a tweener. Burgess is a tweener at 266 lbs.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:37 pm
Huff
I agree, they are both tweeners.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:39 pm
Tom Flores - Maybe Sapp is planning on filing the paperwork after June 1st so he can help the Raiders with the cap. Maybe that will push some of his money into the next year so we’re not hurt by his retirement? Just a guess.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:40 pm
Huff24
I saw something mentioned about trading Andrew Walter to Atlanta…if they would be interested in swapping him for DeAngelo Hall thats a win win for everyone. Someone eralier mentioned getting a 3rd rounder for Walter but I would much rather see a proven quality CB for him…even if it does mean paying him a bundle…he would be much cheaper than Assante Samuels and we defintely have a need there while our youngsters continue to develop
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:41 pm
Good point Huff.
Good discussion for today. Gotta run for now. Later.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:43 pm
Tom Flores - Deangelo Hall is overrated and one big headache. In all honesty, we don’t need a guy like that. I’d rather go after Asante Samuel. Hes better anyways.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:44 pm
Huff -
Post #117 is exactly right.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:44 pm
I would take pacman over hall. Im talking strictly on-the-field performance, not the circus
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Barry Sims’ job next year will require 3 words:
“Paper or Plastic”
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:46 pm
Why anyone thinks AW merits a third round selection is beyond me. An injured Daunte Culpepper garnered Minnesota a second round pick from the ‘Fins. That’s just too convuluted for me.
Now onto a bit of realism. Most teams are salcapwise prepared for the upcoming free agemt market. Thus sticker prices will be akin to West Bay real estate; sticker shock is the norm.
So, even though I don’t like the prospect of signing a graybeard like Flozell Adams (see: Orlando Pace, Jonathan Ogden and, coming to a downward slide near you, Walter Jones) he may command a king’s randsom.
Thus, I believe the proper FA tact is to take care of one’s own core FA’s and concentrate on the “under the radar” candidates. Such as DJ Hackett, WR of Seattle.
Bernard berrian would conceptually be fine but, if he had a case of the “dropsies” with Rex Grossman how would he adjust to JRuss’s fastball?
Hackett could man the “X” receiver, running seam routes to clear the underneath stuff for Ronald Curry in his accustomed “Y” (slot) spot. Would be quite the mismatch against nickelbacks leaguewide.
If Glenn Dorsey goes #1 overall I still harbor hope the Raiders can link with a trading partner that would both net Sedrick (the Entertainer) Ellis and a shot @ a somewhat ready for primetime WR. Probably not plausable and, since the WR’s have yet to test @ the combine draft availability would just be mere speculation. Still, seems early Doucet, JRuss’ batterymate @ LSU has slid a bit. Would take the Raiders sweetning the deal a bit to obtain another second rounder (probably the enticement of a third or fourth round pick next year) but an Ellis, Tony Hillis of Texas @ LT and Doucet @ WR would really be a coup. Coupled with Tyrell Jackson, SS from Arkansas St. @ #4 & Angelo Craig, SAM LB from Cincinnati @ #5 this could be a bigtime boone.
If the latter two are considered “not ready for primetime” players they could immediately contribute on special teams.
Anyway, just whistling in the wind. A bit (not too distant from many of our blogging breatheren/sisters).
Late; NBA beckons!
Always in, never out (well, momentarily. Then I’m back in again. And the cycle prepetuates).
antispy3
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:46 pm
Dorsey or Ellis in that order.
Then a wide receiver in the second round.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Unknown is right, Hall isn’t all that. He is Fabian Washington with more important friends and more exposure. Plus Atlanta would want way more than Walter for Hall. I read a report earlier that the Giants were considering trading their 1st round pick, 31st overall, to Atlanta for Hall.
The problem with Pacman is that his suspension is open ended and who knows if there is an end in sight. It’s all about if Pacman can stay out of trouble long enough.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Huff24
If we do trade Walters then they may decide not to take a QB and that means they will take Dorsey or Ellis off the board….yikes…
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:50 pm
I have heard someone say that Samuels is only a product of the Pats def schemes…and that his abilites are less than appears. We need someone with man cover skills since it don’t look like our defense is changing anytime soon…as long as Big Al is alive anyway…hahaha
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:52 pm
Pacman has finally finished up all his court cases and is off the hook legally…now its just up to Goodell…
Al Davis is all about star power and doesn’t mind dealing with troubled youths…
back in the day Al would do his scouting at California Youth Authority hahahaha
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:56 pm
Barry Sive will be serving large amounts of Burgers to RR and Jordan here:
http://cache.viewimages.com/xc/73043637.jpg?v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF193CC300C081D9F47000541F093FE2FB018BD702622793D2AB3A55A1E4F32AD3138
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:56 pm
maybe having Ryan around isn’t such a bad thing…he’s certainly offsets Kiffin’s cerebral and methodical style with his shoot-from-the-hip cowboy mentality. I’m personally NOT a fan of Ryan, but I can see why Davis might like him.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:56 pm
Raiderdogg
I read the same thing…about Giants offer and it makes since when you consider where they are on the board and that DeAngelo has been very very good…he is very fast and young…and I remember someone spitting in his face becasue he could not get open as easy as he was used to…hahaha
He does get burned by taller WRs that can out jump him..but for the most part he is solid…if the giants are willing to part with a 1st rounder for him with the quality D they have…well that tells you what they think he is worth.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:58 pm
Pacman + Oakland, CA = Bad combination
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:58 pm
Halo 3 time. I’ll catch up later. Peace.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:59 pm
I’m going to repost the write-up I did about Jake Long in the last article. Minutes later this new one went up so in case anyone missed it or might care.
——————————————————-
Jake Long is a beast and if he’s there at #4, he’ll be a Raider. Love it or hate it, I just can’t see us passing on him. Not a popular decision on this blog from what I’ve read the last few months on Jake, but the guy is going to be a beast at left tackle in this league.
Too much negative on Big Ten o-lineman from most of us after the Gallery debacle. Last time I checked Joe Thomas played at Wisconsin and many other lineman have come from the Big Ten over the years.
Jake benched 225 lbs., 37 times, today. Highest among all O-lineman. Plus they showed him putting in a prank wake-up call for an Ohio State player at the front desk of the combine hotel. He’s a character and would make a perfect Raider.
And of course someone that played/coached at Notre Dame will question is footwork. They were too busy watching him dominate their team the last couple years to be watching his feet.
He gave up I believe only one sack to the freak monster Gholston in the Ohio State game this year. One sack! And now apparently the word out is that he struggles against speed rushers. When I played line, giving up one sack, one darn sack, through an entire year was something to be proud of to say the least.
Sorry guys, but after the last play of the season where Sims didn’t even attempt to block JR’s backside, I almost threw up. JR comes to the sidelines just irate and I don’t blame him. I don’t want to see this from Sims again. Don’t let the door hit you on the way out man.
And Long is NOT Robert Gallery. Gallery came out with freak body size numbers which made people gawk and drool. Jake Long is big, but he’s a special player and his footwork has always looked strong to me. I don’t know where that is coming from after dominating for years at the highest college level. Long has been a leader of that team for years. Vocal leader and performing on the field type leader. If Gallery was that type of player, I sure don’t remember hearing it a few years ago. I don’t remember hearing much about Gallery until after his last collegiate season. Jake Long has been talked about for years now and came back this year to try and win it all rather than go into the draft where he would have been a 1st round pick. Shows me heart and determination, too.
Just my opinion and I’m sure I’ll be called IDIOT or other mean words, but I’m just commenting what I’ve noticed after watching every single University of Michigan game for the last three years.
Look if we don’t take OL, I’m fine with drafting DT in the 1st round. BUT, we better be ready to stop the run all game then after Sims gives up a horrible blind-side hit on our franchise QB in the first two games and then McCown runs our offense the rest of the year. Teams will then just run it down our throat every game. It is what it is my Raider friends.
Anyway, we’ll see tomorrow as OL is up first.
Go Raiders.
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:59 pm
Raider Raul is right…who else is gonna want to be our DC under Al Davis’ terms?
Al is calling the shots on D not Ryan…
that would make any DC crazy not being able to implement his own schemes…
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:05 pm
Wolverine
I think that when an ex-Olinemen like yourself or Art Shell picks a player like Jake Long as our first pick it has to be respected. I dont know about anyone else here but you get my vote as Oline scout even if you are partial to Michigan.
Linemen know which qualities matter when protecting their QB and I was at that game that Sims left JRuss out to dry…
we NEED a top LT to protect him if we want him to develop into the player we picked and paid him to be…
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:10 pm
so i was thinking about the draft and positions we need. does anyone know what the thought is on thomas decoud from cal? i just saw a clip from him and i wonder if he could be the SS while huff be the FS. i wouldnt use the 1st round on him but i wonder if he could be our second round. does neone know anything about him?
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:10 pm
I dont think Jake Long will get past both Parcells in Miami and the Rams and Atlanta. They all need an OT..as do we…If any one of them has any sense he will be gone. I think that is one of the reasons why everyone here has been focusing on the best D line player available…that and the huge hole that Sapp has left wide open by retiring a year too early.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:14 pm
Andrew Walter was the 69th pick of the 2005 draft, there is just no way Atlanta would give up the 66th pick (their 3rd rounder) in this draft for AW, say what you will but after 3 years in the league AW´s value has gone down, not up.
At this point, I would gladly take Atl´s 4th rounder for AW, that would give us 2 of the top 6 picks in the 4th, which would leave us with 4 selections among the top 100 players on what they say is a deep draft.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:15 pm
Mike
not known as a big hitter…runs a 4.59
however that WR they have looks like a Steve Smith (Carolina)type…
very fast and good hands just the WR we need
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:16 pm
Bob Marley
You just smacked down our dream in a few sentences.
Shame on you.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:17 pm
Where do I sign up for the Jake Long bandwagon ride?
If JR goes down I want a young, tough LT to protect Andrew.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:19 pm
With all due respect for Barry Sims, of course.
Its hard to believe there are Barry haters on this board.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:19 pm
Atl´s 3rd rounder would be around 66th, not sure if that´s the exact number but is below the 70th.
And on the second pharagarph make that top 100ish players or so after the comp picks are awarded.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:21 pm
tom flores
thanks. yea the wr from cal doesnt get as much publicity as desean jackson but he good be a good pick up in the second. it really bothers me that we dont have a third round pick. and i dont think we really have anyone worth much trade value.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:21 pm
Bob Marley
If we do trade Walter to ATL and they draft Jake Long…to protect him….(something he never had here)and he turns out to be their starter for the next 8 years…I will get to say…I told you so…
right now we will actually need 3 to 4 quaterbeacks on this team per year until we find a replacement for Sims and Gallery that will actually protect the blind side. If Walters had gone to Minnesota for instance he would be a star QB
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:25 pm
I would look into trading AW and perhaps a 5th rounder for Kris Jenkins.
They say Jenkins will end up released so that may keep other teams from trading for him, but I´d like to make sure we end up with him, once he hits the street as a free player we will have to compete with at least 10 teams to get him to sign here, why take that chance?.
Carolina gets Delhomme back but Carr proved to be beyond salvation and having both Matt Moore and AW would make them feel better about their future and another Delhomme injury or suckiness stretch.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:28 pm
Mike
we did such a good job at moving around and trading during the draft to pick up extra picks…that I have confidence that Kiffin will get us more picks again this year. Like Kiffin I hoped that Mike Williams would turn his career around….christ what an all time bust!!! 6M a year !!!
…and that Ryans 3rd rounder was gonna be the next Jevon Kearse…thtas a bit of bad luck…but I fully expect Kiffin to be creative again and pile up the picks. Its the only chance he has to clean up the roster and take out the garbage left over from days gone by.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:28 pm
Huff
Pacman+London,England=Bad combo
Thats just who he is. Still, I love his talent and intimidating style on the field.
He once said the reason the titans were losing is because they dont have enough thugs on the team.
That’s the type of mentality we need around here.
Remember the days when we used to intimidate? It works and I want those days back!!
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:29 pm
Tom Flores
So what do you suggest? that we keep AW sitting here until he´s a FA and walks for nothing?.
Get whatever you can for while he´s still got a bit of value, he´ll be 26 this year, he´s not getting any younger either.
I like the guy a bit, but he´s no use to us now, not the way Kiffin treated him last year, he is of no use for us and we need help in other areas.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:30 pm
I don’t think Jake Long is a LT maybe a RT. But we need someone big and athletic to keep up with the speed rushers. That means good feet as well as size, strength and toughness.
I thought the Raiders always choose tails…just another case of sending someone who doesn’t know the history.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:31 pm
Mr. Flores,
Big Al really whooped on Ryan and Kiffin since the end of the season, and put BOTH coaches in their places. I just hope that Al’s actions & “media stories” doesn’t build up resentment from Kiffin towards the organization. Both coaches seem more appreciative now, but really need to put in a great effort & really get the MOST out of the team in order to get proper recognition.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:33 pm
By the way, I still want both Rogers and Jenkins inside, if we can trade for one and sign the other after he´s cut that´d be sweet.
We brought Parrella and Adams togheter before, we brought Ted Washington and Sapp toghter before, let´s make it Rogers and Jenkins in 08.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Bob Marley
what would that leaves us with on our roster at QB ???
If we can get Josh Johnson Oakglenns pick from USD then I am all for trading Walters…but last year we started with 5 QBs and this year we will be left with JRUSS and McCown !!! I know alot of people like McCown but he threw an equal amount of INTs as TDs…he is not a quality back up for JRUSS…Walter could be.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Pride and Poison
See post #135, this Raider fan saw Long over 40 times and swears he can handle the speed rushers in today’s NFL.
Also committed only two penaltys at Michigan.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:35 pm
I wonder if my boy “Chigurh” did the coin flip?
“No Country for Old Men” reference.
Only those who saw the movie need respond!!
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:37 pm
There is only one choice,..its Jake Long,…the Raiders gave a boatload of cash to Russell,…you better protect him…Dorsey will miss an average of 5 games a year in the NFL if hes lucky,..Ellis is a punk,…wont make it in the NFL…its Jake Long Im telling you.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:40 pm
UNKNOWN
dude I could not agree more…we need people to FEAR us again when they come to the balck hole. Thugs are just what we need on D…to put the fear of GOD into WRs and QBs as well as RBs trying to run up the middle. The game has gotten WAY too controlled by refs. Give Pacman a shot AL…what do we have to do ??? Lose 15 games to realize we aint gettin it done with our D ???
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:44 pm
Tom Flores
Russell, McCown and an undrafted free agent would be just fine, maybe we´ll even find a Shaun Hill, Matt Moore kind of capable backup. In fact many teams carry only 2 QB´s on the active roster.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:47 pm
Aren’t one of our wr’s a quality or at least utilitarian qb
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:48 pm
Unknown
eveyone here thinks I am crazy and maybe you do too…but I will say it again …we need to trade downa few spots at a time until we pick up 2 to 3 picks in the 2nd round and still get to take Keith Rivers at LB or Kenny Philips FS/SS…last I heard Miami had a few “Thugs” on D !!!
Larry Coker compared him to Ed Reed…and played him at both positions as he gained weight and got stronger he put him in the box becasue he was a big hitter.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:49 pm
The Raiders have interviewed three college player so far.
The NFL allows each team at the combine 60 interviews.
The players interviewed are:
Tony Hills Texas OT
Anthony collins Kansas OT
Desean Jackson WR Cal
Did I miss anyone?
The combine has I believe 335 players.
The interview process isin’t a indication of who we will draft but it has a window of thought in which direction they may be going.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:51 pm
with 3 or 4 second rounders we could do alot of damage in the draft. WE can still peel off a quality DT and OT grab a top WR…or LB
If we use our #4 overall…we get one player when we need more like 4 good players to turn this team around
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:52 pm
Jake Long from NFL.COM
Compares To: JAMAAL BROWN - New Orleans…Like Brown, Long is a mauler with excellent drive-blocking skills. He compensates for a lack of explosion by taking good angles to adjust to movement and has the big hands and upper-body strength to consistently walk his man off the line. He shows the kick-step to mirror edge rushers, but does allow some inside penetration with his sluggish hip swerve working in-line.
In a game plan that features physical drive blocking, Long is a perfect fit. But, if you put him in a zone-blocking formation, he lacks the lateral agility needed to mirror inside movement.
– Not that the ‘’scouts’ are always right, but interesting to hear all sides, I´m sure you’ll all notice the last sentence.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:53 pm
Flores
The ultimate thug is Haynesworth. He should be doing 5-8 years for his repeated kick in the face tactic 2 years ago. Now thats what we need. Violence on the field.
Take heed Fabian.
February 22nd, 2008 at 5:56 pm
Raiderdell
why did we wait until now to interview Jackson when he played 15 miles from the Coliseum for the last few years ??? That seems like a waste of an interview to me…
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:00 pm
Unknown
when I saw that move on ESPN by Hanynesworth I honestly said …”Oh man that guy is one mean mutha ! I hope the Titans cut him so we can bring him to Oakland.” all my friends thought I was crazy but he ended up making the pro bowl next year…same thing with Chicago cast off that Jeery Jones signed…he is doing great there…its all about being in the right environment. Can you imagine Lovie Smith keeping Schweigert on the team with all those shoulder and arm tackles ???
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:00 pm
flores
i agree that kiffin did a great job moving around and gathering picks, we just need some people who are able to step in right away and help.
on another note, i would really like to see huff breakout, i was really excited about him when we drafted him, hopefully he does move to fs and is able to use his athleticism to change games.
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:01 pm
Huff, that’s what I’ve been saying about McFadden for weeks now. Finally Mayock joined me
He’s the 2007 version of Michael Bennett and ultimately will get picked in around the same spot once the combine exposes his lack of versatility.
On the AW for a 3rd concept, I think he’s worth more tothe Raiders as JR’s direct back up. Yeah, I know that he doesn’t have the same mobility, but this isn’t the Shell offense of ‘06 either. It’s run first to set up the pass and it has an intelligent blocking scheme from this century, not 1970. The difference between AW is the arm and the decision making. On the plays that they aren’t handing the ball off, you want someone that can throw those crisp outs off three step drops and occassionally challenge deep — just like JRuss is going to be throwing.
In other words, AW is more like JR than McCown is. Thus he’s a better backup in the same system. And if the NFL has taught us anything, it’s that you damn well better have a good 2nd string QB because odds are, he’s going to see playing time.
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:02 pm
Bob Marley
temas that have only two QBs on the roster usually have pro bowl linemen that can be counted on to protect their QBs !!!
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:03 pm
Flores
I can’t imagine stu’s best friend keeping him on his team! lol
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:03 pm
DeSean Jackson, 5′9” 168…..That´s too small for my taste, does anyone still want him?.
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:03 pm
Maybe Jake Long can wear #75 for us???
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:06 pm
Marley,
What if DeSean Jackson becomes the next Devon Hester???
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:06 pm
Tom
NCAA rule violations, and illegal contact of a player by a NFL team is a direct violation of the NFLPA
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:08 pm
Mike
I absolutely love Huff…I was shocked that we took him at the time..but my only thought in this years draft was to get someone solid to team up with him…when you have to cover someone else who is out of position and doesnt tackle you dont get as many picks or recognition…
I think with Philips and Huff and Asomugha and ??? back there we would be awesome…no one would throw the deep ball on us without thinking twice…
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:10 pm
Tom Flores
Yeah, that´s why I said Russell, McCown and a random third stringer.
Zymurge
I see your point, but Kiffin for some reason won´t play Walter, if he stays around it´s gonna be as a 3rd stringer and I´d rather get whatever we can for him. Every year AW looses a little bit more value and is approaching FA as he enters his 4th season.
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:12 pm
DeSean Jackson has heart…I will defintely take him…did you see that interview…??? He has a chip on his shoulder just like Steve Smith did coming out..
February 22nd, 2008 at 6:12 pm
i honestly think huff is the player that we knew we were drafting, he has the ability. i think it was a bad decision to stick him at ss and i think a lot of his ability has been used to cover tight ends. here is a brief thing on huff, this was just posted….
*Then there’s always the complex topic that is Michael Huff. His play looked solid, but others think he’s a bust, pretty harsh after two seasons. No decision has been made to move Huff to free safety yet.
Here’s Ryan on Huff:
“That position is tough. One of the toughest spots in our defense is strong safety. You have to be able to cover the best tight ends in football. We ask him to sit in the run against the off tackle. Those two things alone are tough enough. Then we ask him to be able to play hig