More Kiffin
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Tuesday, April 1st, 2008 at 6:19 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Additional comments from Lane Kiffin at the NFL owner’s meetings at West Palm Beach, Fla., courtesy of contracted employee (or stringer, as we say in the business) Walter Villa:
On trading for CB DeAngelo Hall: “Was cornerback our No. 1 need? No. But DeAngelo became available, and he is a player with great potential. . . . We couldn’t pass him up.”
On replacing retired DT Warren Sapp with DE Tommy Kelly “Tommy has played three different positions for us. With Warren being a 3-technique, Tommy really hasn’t been able to flourish at what we feel is his best position. But Rob (Ryan) feels Tommy is the best 3-technique in the league.”
On Kelly coming off an ACL injury: “It’s a major concern. But with Tommy being here, we have a lot of information on him. And we didn’t want to let Tommy leave. Sometimes that can overprice you. But Al (Davis) decided to pay him that, and we’re happy he accepted.”
On QB JaMarcus Russell’s holdout last season: “It’s like we had him (in minicamp), and then they took him away from us. But he has been great this offseason. He is in by far the best shape since we’ve had him.”
On Russell playing QB at 270-plus pounds: “He has a big-time arm and phenomenal feet for his size. He is never going to play at 260, 255 pounds. That’s not his body, that’s not who he is. As long he is 270, he is doing well. And what is the weight? Is it good weight or bad weight? Is it muscle or fat? We are more concerned with his body composition so he can give us some scrambling ability as well.”
On WRs Javon Walker and Drew Carter: “We added some down-the-field threats. Carter made a lot of big plays at Carolina. With Walker, we just want to make sure he is healthy so he can have a big year like he had in Green Bay. With Jamarcus at quarterback, we felt it was important to add long-ball threats instead of possession guys.”
On RB Michael Bush, who missed last season due to injury: “We look at it as if he took a redshirt year (in college). We have three guys who have played (Justin Fargas, Lamont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes), and then we have Michael, who is kind of like a bonus.”
On his first year as a head coach: “Win-losses, it was definitely lower than my expectations . . . We did do some good things, played well in some spurts. But I was disappointed in the consistency, to have two blowout (losses) at the end of the year. It kind of reminds you how far away you are.”
On how his players handled the losing: “We were very fortunate. We didn’t really have any issues of players lashing out at the media. For the most part, they handled themselves well.”
On feeling pressure: “If you are going to worry about being fired, I think you start worrying about that the day you get hired by the Raiders. I don’t feel any added pressure. If I worried about getting fired, I would have started worrying about that from Day 1.”
On the draft: “We don’t have a lot of picks. We have the No. 4 choice overall, which is significant. We could trade down, obviously. We’d love to continue to work on our defensive line. There are a couple of really good defensive lineman that may be available at 4.”
On mock drafts that have the Raiders picking Arkansas running back Darren McFadden at No. 4: “He is a phenomenal player, but I don’t really think running back is a need for us.”
On whether Kiffin will have an impact on who the Raiders draft: “I hope so. I wouldn’t expect it to be any different than last year.”
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April 1st, 2008 at 6:21 pm
not doing it again.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:23 pm
Good man
April 1st, 2008 at 6:25 pm
Good substance Jerry!
April 1st, 2008 at 6:25 pm
Guess we are drafting D-line…
April 1st, 2008 at 6:26 pm
2nd , 3rd , 4th?
April 1st, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Hey Saint. What do you make of all this Kiffin exposure? Surprisingly straightforward isn’t it.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:27 pm
LOL…That was great. You missed it by one.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:27 pm
Used car salesman.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:29 pm
Hope Kiffin was bluffing, McFadden could be the next Marcus Allen for us but if Bush is back in form then hey let’s rebuild that D-line.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:31 pm
Great stuff.
Kiffin just comes off like if there’s a tornado outside he does’nt care because it’s outside. He’s busy and his heads in the game.
He’s got me sold on that he really does’nt care about what is going on in the papers.
But let’s hope he’s reading this blog!!:)
April 1st, 2008 at 6:34 pm
Whatever happened to Hawthorne anyways. I know we sent him to Europe(probably not a great place for someone who likes green bud) but then he just disappeared.
You guys know anything??
Could be more depth for pretty cheap.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:38 pm
I was wondering that too. Let me google him and get back to you. Chances are he’s high and overweight by now.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:40 pm
Would really like to know who asked the last line: On whether Kiffin will have an impact on who the Raiders draft?
Now that is a stupid question!
April 1st, 2008 at 6:41 pm
Looks like Hawthorne is still a Free Agent. He worked out for the niners but did not make the team.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:42 pm
Draft Dmac then trade him
April 1st, 2008 at 6:44 pm
Gotta run folks. See you later.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:44 pm
Thanks.
Could’nt cut it with the 49ers. HHmmmmmm.
Not a glaring report card for sure. Was really pulling for the guy when we got him. Obviously he has a load of talent, maybe just never had the right mentor.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:51 pm
trade down…
April 1st, 2008 at 6:51 pm
The down side is we take McFadden and then can’t unload him.
I’d really like to see us take C Long or Gholston but trading down to fill needs at OL, WR and DL would be nice.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Antaaj Hawthorne is currently playing in the Arena League. He was highly touted out of college but never produced so we canned him.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:54 pm
Well …
If Kelly is penciled in at DT, looks like were going DE at #4.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:56 pm
take Mcfadden n trade to the cowboys
April 1st, 2008 at 6:57 pm
get some solid role players to patch the defense in the later rounds
April 1st, 2008 at 6:58 pm
There he is.
Thanks SevereRaider. Well, at least he’s still playin.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:58 pm
On the draft: “We don’t have a lot of picks. We have the No. 4 choice overall, which is significant. We could trade down, obviously. We’d love to continue to work on our defensive line. There are a couple of really good defensive lineman that may be available at 4.”
On mock drafts that have the Raiders picking Arkansas running back Darren McFadden at No. 4: “He is a phenomenal player, but I don’t really think running back is a need for us.”
__________________________________________________
Several possibilities on why Kiffin is making these statements:
1. he is an idiot and is telling the truth;
2. he does not give a shite about the Raiders and is undermining Al’s Draft position in the hope of getting fired;
3. It is all a bunch of draft misdirection and does not mean a thing.
For all of you that now want to use this for the next 25 days to say we are not going to draft McFadden, well, I guess you chose to believe option #1.
I think it is Option #3, I just can’t believe he would be dumb enough to give away our draft strategy. No one in the NFL is that dumb.
April 1st, 2008 at 6:59 pm
Jerry n Al shud work something out
April 1st, 2008 at 7:02 pm
Dakota,
When has our draft stategy ever been a secret?
April 1st, 2008 at 7:04 pm
What do you mean jhill? Our draft strategy is always a secret. No one knows what Al is going to do until he does it on draft day.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:05 pm
On the draft: “We don’t have a lot of picks. We have the No. 4 choice overall, which is significant. We could trade down, obviously. We’d love to continue to work on our defensive line. There are a couple of really good defensive lineman that may be available at 4.”
On mock drafts that have the Raiders picking Arkansas running back Darren McFadden at No. 4: “He is a phenomenal player, but I don’t really think running back is a need for us.”
————————-
let me translate:
“Yes, we are drafting McFadden, but we are worried that the Jets or some other team will trade up with Atlanta and take him at #3. So I’m feeding you the obligatory BS smoke screen to conceal our true intentions and make it look like we’re focusing on defense with the 4th pick. Never mind that having demonstrating my disloyalty by actively pursuing the Arkansas job, I really don’t have a say in who we draft.”
April 1st, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Just going off recent memory …
Russell was no surprise. Huff, Fabes, Gallery, Buchanon, or Nap Harris were surprises either…
I’m just saying … It seems like we draft a need position each year. Now I’m not saying that it always works out, but we don’t usually reach or draft non need positions.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:15 pm
Really, a trade down is the only option if we can pull it off. We need players. Our priorities are:
1) A big, young possession wide receiver
2) A widebody interior defensive lineman
3) An athletic linebacker who can stop the run and get to the qb.
One trade partner could be New Orleans. They were a huge dissapointment last year and are looking for immediate defensive upgrades. The opportunity to land Ghoulston might be too good for them to pass up.
We could swap 1st round picks, grab Rivers from USC to fill the linebacker need and be set at the position along with Morrison and Howard for the next decade.
They’d have to throw in their number 2, where James Hardy from Indiana might be available, and their number 3 where Red Bryant could fall.
Another possibility is Carolina at 13 who’d love to grab McFadden. Under the same scenario with their 1 rounder we grab Malcolm Kelly or Devin Thomas at WR, with the 2nd we take Pat Sims DT then in the 3rd someone like Jerod Mayo.
Food for thought. My jock itches.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:15 pm
Was anyone really surprised that we took Sea-bass that year either?
Surprised I asked, not disappointed.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:17 pm
[...] that we know half of what’s gone on. More of Kiffin’s comments from Walter Villa, through Jerry McDonald at Inside Bay Area. On trading for CB DeAngelo Hall: “Was cornerback our No. 1 need? No. But [...]
April 1st, 2008 at 7:19 pm
What says you guys about Jonathon Goff??
I really like Morrison and think he’s a great leader, but I believe one of our weaknesses against the run is at the point of attack just beyond the dline. You guys know how much we overpursue and well, we’re not much for tackling.
Goff sounds like a real tough guy and is being praised for his tackling and shedding blocks.
Anyone see him play. ILB for Vanderbilt.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:21 pm
another quote from Kiffin per nfldraftscout.com:
- NFL Owners Meeting Transcripts, Lane Kiffin
04/01/08 - THE D-LINEMEN THAT WILL BE THERE AT NO. 4, IS THAT THE AREA YOU THINK YOU SHOULD GO? “Yeah, I do. Like I said, we lost three guys, we added two in the offseason. It’s definitely an issue we talked about before – with DeAngelo Hall, how does that help you when you’re averaging 32nd in the league in rushing yards allowed per play? Well – we can play nine in the box now instead of eight in the box on every down, I guess. “But to go out and get a defensive linemen or a tackle that can really play the run, that would really help us a lot.” WHAT ABOUT DORSEY AND HIS INJURY PROBLEMS? YET HE STILL LINED UP ON SATURDAYS… “I think that says a lot about him because there were probably a lot of games where he shouldn’t have played. You could really see the injury and really see him laboring because of the injury. To me that shows a lot about him.”
http://tinyurl.com/2q9l5x
April 1st, 2008 at 7:22 pm
[...] Read more. Posted in Blog, Oakland Raiders | [...]
April 1st, 2008 at 7:26 pm
more Kiffin per nfldraftscout.com:
- NFL Owners Meeting Transcripts, Lane Kiffin
04/01/08 - WILL THE INTEREST IN MCFADDEN HELP YOU GUYS DO THAT? “I don’t’ know that. I think McFadden is a guy a lot of people would like to have. But you really have to have him targeted and know how you want to use him because he’s a unique player. To me, he’s a unique player. Maybe you have a system where he’s not going to fit what you want to do.” HOW IS HE UNIQUE? “Like I said, we really don’t have a need for running back. But looking at McFadden, I think you could spread him out. That’s what I would do with him – we did that with Reggie (Bush) some at USC. I’d look at him in that role myself.” HAS HE ANSWERED ALL THE OFF-FIELD QUESTIONS? “I think the few instances that he had, those were bad decisions that he made. But what excites me about him, if you were going to pick him, is his football personality. There are no issues on the field. There are no practice issues. This is a tough guy. He’s the off-returner on kickoffs and he asked to be there – people don’t usually ask to do that when they’re in a Heisman race and they’re worried about their draft status. They don’t want to block for somebody. But that’s what excites me about him.”
April 1st, 2008 at 7:29 pm
Jhill,
I did not say that we drafted a “surprise” every year. What I did say is that we usually do not give away our draft strategy, in other words we don’t usually come out and say “we are not drafting this person and we are drafting d-line.” That is something very unusual for the Raiders and it is either a ruse, or Kiffin is an idiot for doing it.
Let’s just say it is true and Kiffin is an idiot; that means that the Jets no longer have to worry about us drafting McFadden, and since it is highly unlikely that the Chefs pick a RB, then they can sit tight at #6 and get McFadden if they want him. It also eliminates the need for the Cowboys to trade up with us to pick McFadden if they want him. They can trade with the Chefs, who would jump at the chance to add more picks, and then pay less to move up to #5 and less $$ to McFadden.
Additionally, if the Jets want Gholston, they may now want to move up to #3 to get him because they are afraid that we will draft him @ 4. So we may lose out on both DEs and end up having to settle for one of the midget DTs.
It would just be idiotic for Kiffin to puke out to the world our draft strategy.
Therefore, I have to believe it is a ruse, or Kiffin may be the second dumbest person alive (the other one posts on this site as MR)
April 1st, 2008 at 7:35 pm
9 in the box with a good run stuffer - offenses wouldn’t know what 2 do
April 1st, 2008 at 7:37 pm
Kiff makes a million dollars a year coaching the fricking Oakland Raiders.
You grow bacon in the badlands
Whos the idiot?
April 1st, 2008 at 7:37 pm
“Like I said, we really don’t have a need for running back. But looking at McFadden, I think you could spread him out. That’s what I would do with him – we did that with Reggie (Bush) some at USC. I’d look at him in that role myself.”
______________________________________________________
This reeks of misdirection, lol, and not very good misdirection at that. He is not a very good liar, lol.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:39 pm
I don’t grow bacon, I herd mammoth, get it right Andrew’s Mom.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Pirate
Thanks for the added quotes
April 1st, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Dakota Says:
Let’s just say it is true and Kiffin is an idiot;April 1st, 2008 at 7:29 pm True that, Dakota.
True that.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:41 pm
By the way, my career is much more important than Kiffin’s will ever be (herding mammoth is just a side job, lol). If you only knew.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:43 pm
Dang Warriors, can’t you help the Lakers out?
April 1st, 2008 at 7:44 pm
I hear you Dakota, but I just don’t think the posturing matters at the end of the day.
When was the last time a top 5 pick was traded?
And it’s pretty clear that we, and most teams, draft for need. The same way every team knows that it’s not likely McFadden goes to the top 3 teams, they should know that we are not LIKELY to take McFadden as well.
I just think that if we take care of our business and draft the best available player on our board, then the rest of it doesn’t matter.
My first option would be to use the #4 pick. If someone made me an offer I couldn’t refuse, then fine. But I wouldn’t be calling folks looking to deal the pick.
Maybe that’s why I suck at poker.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:46 pm
#8 Dakota,
Very good observation Dakota. I was thinking the same thing. If the Raiders were really not interested in picking McFadden..Why say they are not interested in him?? …….Either Kiffin is an idiot for pointing this out or he wants people to think that they are not interested in him so they dont leap over them to pick D-MAC!!
I suspect it’s the latter!!
Now i’m sure they are looking to pick D.MAC!!
April 1st, 2008 at 7:46 pm
Jerry is the “stringer” nickname from The Wire ?
Kiffin just told the world they dont want DMAC???? Who is going to trade up to get him from us now? Its a smoke screen or AL has the kid in a headlock right now for opening his piehole.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:48 pm
Come on, there is one single thing everyone on earth can agree on when it comes to the Draft and that is nobody will make public their true intentions.
If Kiffin had said: ”yeah, he´s great, we´d love to get him”…everyone would be making the same smokescreen argument but it would be backwards.
Bottom line, we still have no idea what the Raiders are thinking, this does not make McFadden more or less likely to be the pick than he was before.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:50 pm
No matter what kiffin says no team is going to buy into it to much - If a team really wants D-Mac than a team will trade up to get D-Mac
April 1st, 2008 at 7:50 pm
Jerry was Kiffin wearing Under Armour gear ?
April 1st, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Marley,
Why would Kiffin tip his hat. That’s STUPID man!! C’mon man!! He’s got to be an idiot to say something like that unless it is a smoke screen…….DMAC would be the best RB we have bar none on this Raider Roster….That much everyone here should admit!! DMAC would be our #1 RB!!
April 1st, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Smoke sceen,they will draft R-Dmc with all the other need positions they have added in Fa,know if any of them work out on d-line or not who knows,but can you honestly say if they want R-Dmc he is going to say YES thats who we want so someone will trade over them to get him
April 1st, 2008 at 7:52 pm
Doe I like my scenario better cant you picture AL with Kiffin in a headlock rubbing his knuckles on his dome ?
April 1st, 2008 at 7:53 pm
lol
Maybe they will have a pissing contest to see who gets the first pick in the draft
April 1st, 2008 at 7:54 pm
I can’t wait until April 26th. I will be happy with Chris Long or McFadden. I will be okay with Gholston. I will be okay with Dorsey, but only if those first three guys are all gone. I will be pissed if we select Ellis over any of the previous four guys…
Not that you guys care, lol.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:55 pm
Dakota,
I care!!!
Just, not that much!!
Pick McFadden or C. Long!!!
April 1st, 2008 at 7:56 pm
The only pick the entire Nation would be happy with would be Long JR.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:56 pm
Glory
Uhm…..I think that was my point, that no one buys that kind of talk 3 weeks before the Draft.
April 1st, 2008 at 7:57 pm
Dakota,
Are you a USC hater???
If so, is that the reason you dont want Ellis with the Raiders??
Just curious!!!
April 1st, 2008 at 7:59 pm
Kiffin’s not an idiot its U guys that are LOL. just joking - well not really. I mean seriously, McFadden WAS NOT going to be the pick. Anyone with eyes can see that. You guys were just sitting here living a fantasy. Thats it you all were in fantasy land - well WELCOME BACK TO REALITY!!
April 1st, 2008 at 7:59 pm
Marley,
I admit it man!!
I want D-Mac!! I dont know why??
But, I’m lobbying for the Raiders to pick him!!
I guess you know that by now!! LOL!!
But who do you like with the #4 pick??
Who do you want???
Please dont talk about trading down!! Thats silly!!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:00 pm
I wouldn’t be upset with Ellis or Jake Long.
Surprised, but not upset.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:00 pm
No, USC is great. I just think Ellis is the worst fit for our d-line. If we had not re-signed Kelley, then yes, I could live with Ellis.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:01 pm
I know though…it’ll take you guys a few days to get over it. Kiffin just bitch slapped you all back into reality. Sometimes those slaps can hurt - I’ll give you all time to recover.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:01 pm
Al trades up for the #1 pick in the draft and takes Chris Long - what everyone didn’t know is Long JR is playing for a discount so he can wear the Silver and Blak
April 1st, 2008 at 8:01 pm
O’h, but you still want D-Mac?? right??
Im like you dude!! D-Mac or C. Long!!!
Any of these two!!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:03 pm
Terp, we shall see. If you believe what any GM/coach says 25 days away from the draft, then I have a bridge to sell you in NY.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:03 pm
If we want to engage in speculation…
Kiffin on DeAngelo Hall:
“Was cornerback our No. 1 need? No. But DeAngelo became available, and he is a player with great potential. . . . We couldn’t pass him up.”
Kiffin on Darren McFadden:
“[McFadden] is a phenomenal player. … But we really don’t have a big need at running back.”
April 1st, 2008 at 8:04 pm
Who do you want the Raiders to pick Terrapin??
I would hope you want the Raiders to pick C. Long. He bitched slapped your Terps thru the entire game!! LOL!! Just joking man!!
Who do you like??
April 1st, 2008 at 8:05 pm
Maybe McFadden will ”become available” on April 26th.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:06 pm
# Dakota Says:
April 1st, 2008 at 7:54 pm
I can’t wait until April 26th. I will be happy with Chris Long or McFadden. I will be okay with Gholston. I will be okay with Dorsey, but only if those first three guys are all gone. I will be pissed if we select Ellis over any of the previous four guys…
Not that you guys care, lol.
—————————–
I think this is exactly where I come down as well.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:07 pm
Everyone has a favorite they want for the Raiders…..But some people here dont want to say it!! That’s silly!!
Just come out and say who you would like!!!
Why hide your’e preference!!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:07 pm
Arrrgggggghhh!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:08 pm
Outside of the McFadden ordeal one moment of great clarity (sorta) was Kelly’s position. He will play LDT. The question the Raiders face is whether Dorsey/Ellis can play RDT. I’m a lil’ on the negative side w/ that thought. Ellis has played NT before so that’s intriguing. Just not sure how these guys could translate to the NFL at that position.
The absolute better option is DE. Thats more clear cut with C.Long being the #1 option. He matches the run stuffing criteria plus he brings a lil’ QB pressure.
I expect DE to be the 1st option for the Raiders. 2nd option is to try like hell to trade down. Take the best offer. 3rd option is a toss up - maybe they pull the trigger at DT or a lesser option at OT. If DE is picked first look for the RDT to be picked later in the draft for sure.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:08 pm
One thing is true the zone blocking scheme the RAIDERS are using doesn’t really need a super star RB to be effective. The money spent on a 4th pick is in the $4 to 6 million range & that is a lot of cash for a rookie RB when you have 3 maybe 4 very good RB’s on the roster (Jordan-whatever). Using Dmac as leverage to secure additional picks because another team wants him enough may give us a Defensive Linemen & an Offensive Linemen. That would serve us better in my mind. Not to mention a very good sam LB which we could use.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:08 pm
I heard Kiff on late hits with Vic Carrucci tonight again talking about passing on Mcfaddedn and looking towards other needs. I think the Raiders will look at drafting one of the two DE’s or just go ahead and reach down for Ryan Clady from Boise State. This years draft is deep with tackles. The two best left tackle Prospects are probably Ryan Clady and Branden Albert from virginia. Long is projected to be a RT. The Raiders need a LT. They have a qb, CB’s are stocked, they have a solid DE, but the tackle position is still bear. The concensus is that the 08 draft is loaded with OT’s; thus, I am thinking that next years draft is going to be very short on tackles. If you want a Left tackle to protect Jamarcus’ Blind side, this year is the year to do it. The two DE’s are too good to pass on, and as the NY Giants illustrated you can never really have enough DE’s: Strahan, Osi, Mathias Kiwanuka, Tuck are all good DE’s that the Giants drafted.
The trenches are where this team needs to go.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:09 pm
I really hope it goes Matt Ryan #1, Jake Long #2. That would leave at least Dorsey or C. Long at #4.
At that point it is likely to be Dorsey at #3.
I don’t think anyone will trade into the top 5. It has gotten way too expensive to do so.
The top five are stuck. There will be no trade up or down.
And what is the big deal if the Jets get Dmac as long as we get C. Long?
RBs are like fire crackers, while lineman are like road flairs. Sure, you get a nice big bang out of a RB, but they never last. I would rather have the LONG lasting, intense burning lineman that will last for many years. You can always pick up a few firecrackers.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:10 pm
bob marley is right!! kiffins just made a fool of himslef, i tihnk
April 1st, 2008 at 8:10 pm
At this point it´s all speculation, that´s all I´m saying, the Hall trade has nothing to do with McFadden.
But one could argue that if a good player is available the Raiders won´t hesitate to get him, regardless of postion, citing the Hall deal as proof.
Point is, you can take stuff and make it fit almost any argument but the truth is we don´t know and people should stop pretending to.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:12 pm
Tommy Kelly is a 3 technique DT so that means that the Raiders are not interested in Dorsey or Ellis. They would be great fits at the three technique, but would be out of position otherwise. As Jerry mentioned several times is defense of Sapp, that respeonsibilty is to shoot the gap and disrupt the backfield, while Sands takes on the doubles. The truth is that Sapp was too old, too small, and just ran out of gas. Although he looked quick on occasion, he looked old most plays especially against the run.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:12 pm
It is April fools Day, so maybe Kiffin was just jerking the chain. Getting some teams thinking…
April 1st, 2008 at 8:12 pm
# Terrapin Says:
April 1st, 2008 at 8:01 pm
I know though…it’ll take you guys a few days to get over it. Kiffin just bitch slapped you all back into reality. Sometimes those slaps can hurt - I’ll give you all time to recover.
——————-
gullible
Main Entry:
gull·ible
Variant(s):
gullable \ˈgə-lə-bəl\
Function:
adjective
: easily duped or cheated
April 1st, 2008 at 8:15 pm
denial
Main Entry: de·ni·al
Pronunciation: \di-ˈnī(-ə)l, dē-\
Function: noun
Date: 1528
1: refusal to satisfy a request or desire
2 a (1): refusal to admit the truth or reality (as of a statement or charge) (2): assertion that an allegation is false b: refusal to acknowledge a person or a thing : disavowal
3: the opposing by the defendant of an allegation of the opposite party in a lawsuit
4: self-denial
5: negation in logic
6: a psychological defense mechanism in which confrontation with a personal problem or with reality is avoided by denying the existence of the problem or reality
— in denial : refusing to admit the truth or reality of something unpleasant
April 1st, 2008 at 8:16 pm
lol, gullible…arrrrgggghhhh again!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:18 pm
Kiffin is done guys.
Art of war trick by Al Davis.
If they had fired him already it would have created instability for free-agency.
He’s on the out.
Dontcha know?
The only question remains, who’s next?
p.s.
We’re winning the Super Bowl in 08!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:19 pm
I have a feeling the raiders will move into the bottom of round two with the trade of Fabian or Routt. Goodell said today no decision will be made on Pac-man until training camp time: mid july. That means Dallas will have to address CB another way. The best move would be to trade for Fabian for their 2nd round pick: 59 or something. Right now I am staning on my soap box proclaiming that Dexter Jackson from App… State should be that draft pick. He would be a nice insurance policy to take out if Javon is not able to bounce back from injury: he would also be a cheap investment for the next five years. This man has superstar written all over him.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:21 pm
Anyone think D. Hall might return punts this season?
April 1st, 2008 at 8:21 pm
night all.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:22 pm
I can see Hall returning punts: he is sort of a poor mans Deon. I still want to see more of Higgins, he showed flashes last year.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:23 pm
No on D-Hall - Payin him to much @ corner to risk getting injured returning kicks
April 1st, 2008 at 8:24 pm
The way I see it as long as Higgins learns to hold onto the football he will be our next NasCarr
April 1st, 2008 at 8:24 pm
Routt, Huff, and pissibly Bowie can all take his spot in a minute in case of injury. He does not have a history of getting injured, so I have to say I do not see why they would not let him try it out.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:24 pm
Basically, when you think about McFadden, Dorsey, Gholston, or C Long who cares. I would take any of those cats at a heartbeat and with the 4 pick the Raiders will.
You can swap up McFadden and Ellis and the Raiders cant avoid an upgrade to the D. Line. When you have a top pick you dont have the play chicken. Not if you need the help….bad.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:25 pm
Yeah Higgins did make some mistakes in the return game. I think he has big play potential, but a Dexter Jackson could make me forget his name on draft day.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:27 pm
Coach Alias,
How badass would it be to watch D. Hall return punts all season.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:27 pm
I agree with Tay, I would welcome any of the top 6 guys without a problem, I do have a personal preference and a particular order but I can´t say I dislike any of them.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:28 pm
tay I like all those players with maybe the exception of Jake long. Nobody projects him to be a lT. He sounds like Gallery all over again: Rt or guard. I would love to see the Raiders just snatch up Ryan Clady who has played the last three years in the Zone blocking scheme. He is Junior and he is a 1st round grade: he is worth the risk/ investment anywhere in the first round especoially since he is projected to be a LT in the pro game by every analyst.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:30 pm
Why would you guys wanna risk a DeAangelo injury returning points?. I can live without holding my breath every kick thank you.
And like someone said before, much rather watch Higgins muff a couple of them than Hall tearing something up.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:30 pm
punts…
April 1st, 2008 at 8:30 pm
DoeDoe Says:
April 1st, 2008 at 8:24 pm
The way I see it as long as Higgins learns to hold onto the football he will be our next NasCarr
No he will be better!
Only way we trade D-mac is to draft him and if the Cowgirls want him make sure they get the 2 players we want late in the draft and another pick or player they have on roster we like or no deal
April 1st, 2008 at 8:31 pm
D. Hall was an All American Punt Returner in college.
He’ll be the guy.
If you think about it, a punt return man or Kick Return man is just as important as a WR. In essense, these return guys get to touch the ball more often than a WR, they get to use their athleticism against a lower caliber athlete (special teamer) and they get a chance to score.
The game is changing, all I have to say is Devin Hester to make my point.
p.s.
Dakota is still here!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:33 pm
Players can get hurt at any time.
They get hurt when you try to keep them from getting hurt.
Never worry, cause you’re only visualizing what you do want to happen, therefore giving it the energy it needs to happen.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:34 pm
On Russell playing QB at 270-plus pounds: “He has a big-time arm and phenomenal feet for his size. He is never going to play at 260, 255 pounds. That’s not his body, that’s not who he is. As long he is 270, he is doing well. And what is the weight? Is it good weight or bad weight? Is it muscle or fat? We are more concerned with his body composition so he can give us some scrambling ability as well.”
this has to be the most amazing quote of the day. A scrambling 270 lb quarterback with the strongest arm in pro football. wow
April 1st, 2008 at 8:35 pm
“On trading for CB DeAngelo Hall: “Was cornerback our No. 1 need? No. But DeAngelo became available, and he is a player with great potential. . . . We couldn’t pass him up.”
With this statement, either Kiffin is admitting that he has no interest in addressing our primary needs first, or hinting that he has no control.
…
“On replacing retired DT Warren Sapp with DE Tommy Kelly “Tommy has played three different positions for us. With Warren being a 3-technique, Tommy really hasn’t been able to flourish at what we feel is his best position. But Rob (Ryan) feels Tommy is the best 3-technique in the league.”
Key words…”Rob Ryan” feels. Not “I” feel. Another hint that he was out of the loop on this one.
…..
“On Kelly coming off an ACL injury: “It’s a major concern. But with Tommy being here, we have a lot of information on him. And we didn’t want to let Tommy leave. Sometimes that can overprice you. But Al (Davis) decided to pay him that, and we’re happy he accepted.”
Key phrase, “Al Davis decided to pay him that”. Again, out of the loop.
……
“On QB JaMarcus Russell’s holdout last season: “It’s like we had him (in minicamp), and then they took him away from us. But he has been great this offseason. He is in by far the best shape since we’ve had him.”
Could be taken at face value, although you can’t blame one for interpreting it as a subtle shot at Davis’s handling of the Russell situation..
……
“On Russell playing QB at 270-plus pounds: “He has a big-time arm and phenomenal feet for his size. He is never going to play at 260, 255 pounds. That’s not his body, that’s not who he is. As long he is 270, he is doing well. And what is the weight? Is it good weight or bad weight? Is it muscle or fat? We are more concerned with his body composition so he can give us some scrambling ability as well.”
While Kiffin appears to have no concern over Russell’s weight, he again sort of reveals his inner thoughts with the last comment. Kiffin is concerned with his scrambling ability, which would be non existent if Russell gets too far above 260.
…..
“On WRs Javon Walker and Drew Carter: “We added some down-the-field threats. Carter made a lot of big plays at Carolina. With Walker, we just want to make sure he is healthy so he can have a big year like he had in Green Bay. With Jamarcus at quarterback, we felt it was important to add long-ball threats instead of possession guys.”
Fair enough. Could be taken at face value. But he expresses an obvious concern with Walker staying healthy, which means it’s doubtful Kiff was entirely on board with the move.
….
“On RB Michael Bush, who missed last season due to injury: “We look at it as if he took a redshirt year (in college). We have three guys who have played (Justin Fargas, Lamont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes), and then we have Michael, who is kind of like a bonus.”
Obviously relegates Bush to a secondary talent, even putting Jordan in front of him. Ouch. Kiff’s a Fargas guy, and it looks like he’s warning everyone to get used to it.
……
“On his first year as a head coach: “Win-losses, it was definitely lower than my expectations . . . We did do some good things, played well in some spurts. But I was disappointed in the consistency, to have two blowout (losses) at the end of the year. It kind of reminds you how far away you are.”
Kind of safe wording, but fair enough.
…..
“On how his players handled the losing: “We were very fortunate. We didn’t really have any issues of players lashing out at the media. For the most part, they handled themselves well.”
Unlike…
Rob Ryan?
The Raiders, and whomever in the organization leaked the resignation rumor, not to mention whoever leaked the hideous rumor of his carousing in Indy?
…….
“On feeling pressure: “If you are going to worry about being fired, I think you start worrying about that the day you get hired by the Raiders. I don’t feel any added pressure. If I worried about getting fired, I would have started worrying about that from Day 1.”
Translation: I won’t be here long, anyway. Nobody has been here long, since Flores. Even coaches that succeed, like Gruden, are usually gone quick, and not for a lack of success.
……
“On the draft: “We don’t have a lot of picks. We have the No. 4 choice overall, which is significant. We could trade down, obviously. We’d love to continue to work on our defensive line. There are a couple of really good defensive lineman that may be available at 4.”
Could be safe wording, could be baiting someone for a trade.
…..
“On mock drafts that have the Raiders picking Arkansas running back Darren McFadden at No. 4: “He is a phenomenal player, but I don’t really think running back is a need for us.”
Telling the truth. There isn’t enough interest in DMC for him to be baiting other teams with a trade.
……
“On whether Kiffin will have an impact on who the Raiders draft: “I hope so. I wouldn’t expect it to be any different than last year.”
Not “yes”, but, “I hope so”. This isn’t something a head coach should have to “hope” for. It’s something he should be certain of.
Time will tell.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:37 pm
Completly agree with ya - Higgins can take it back to the house unlike NasCarr - He took 1 back in preseason and I belive he took bac a punk during the Reg season but it was taken back because of holding (who would have thought)
April 1st, 2008 at 8:37 pm
kiffin discounting mcfadden and hinting about the DL only makes it more likely that we take mcfadden, because it discourages teams considering trading up for him and leads them into a false sense of security, it’s the typical smoke screen you see from every team this time of year, trust nothing the teams say about the draft…..
April 1st, 2008 at 8:39 pm
Any of you guys watch the fells try to sack Ben Roethlisberger the last few years? Not the easiest assignment.
Wait till Russell’s coached up!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:39 pm
Anyone watching the Giants/Dodgers game? I think this Giants team might beat out the ‘06 Raiders for worst Offense in the history of Bay Area Sports. I don’t think they could score if the other team pitched them underhandded…man they suck!!!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:39 pm
1st
April 1st, 2008 at 8:40 pm
300 lbs or not, I say let the big dog eat!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:40 pm
What about drafting MacFadden and trading him to Houston for Andre Johnson and their second round pic, where we pick up something like the 10th best D lineman?
April 1st, 2008 at 8:40 pm
Terrapin - Sapp played the 3 technique right? Wasn’t he the RDT next to Kelly and Richardson at RDE? The 3 Technique is the RDT and the NoseTackle is the LDT right? Basically…
LDE - Burgess
LDT - Sands - Nose Tackle
RDT - Kelly - 3 Technique
RDE - Richardson
My other question is…Why can’t we have 2 big guys in the middle? The Jaguars are beefed up in the middle and they are very successful. Why can’t we do that? Personally, I like the idea of…
LDE - Burgess
LDT - Sands - Nose Tackle
RDT - Warren - Nose Tackle/3 Technique
RDE - Long
If we drafted Dorsey, would it make sense to have…
LDE - Burgess
LDT - Warren - Nose Tackle
RDT - Dorsey - Nose Tackle/3 Technique
RDE - Kelly
Can you clear this up for me?
April 1st, 2008 at 8:44 pm
Bob Marley - Deion Sanders returned punts and he was the best corner to ever play. When you have a talent who can change the game…let him play there. Thats where we failed with Charles Woodson. I think he would have been happier and alot more interested at corner if we would have let him return punts and play offense occasionally. I think it would have helped him stay in the game mentally. He got bored doing one thing.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:44 pm
Funny how much news coverage Kiffin speaking caught today. Every single sports source picked it up as a big story.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:45 pm
Kiffin covers ground on draft, QB
April 1, 2008 10:04 AM
Posted by ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson
In addition to talking extensively about his own situation for the first time this offseason, Raiders coach Lane Kiffin riffed about several topics this morning during his media breakfast session at the league meetings in West Palm Beach, Fla.:
* No go on McFadden? Because of a surplus of running backs, including the newly re-signed Justin Fargas, Kiffin said the team likely won’t pursue Arkansas star running back Darren McFadden with the No. 4 pick. Kiffin said the team’s biggest need is at the defensive line, where Virginia defensive end Chris Long (the son of Raiders Hall of Famer Howie Long) and defensive tackles Glenn Dorsey of LSU and Sedrick Ellis of USC are possibilities.
“[McFadden] is a phenomenal player. … But we really don’t have a big need at running back,” Kiffin said.
* Trade down? The Raiders don’t have any second-, third- or fifth-round picks, so Kiffin made it clear the team, which is still very much in the rebuilding phase, will look at the possibility of trading out of the No. 4 pick.
Teams such as Carolina, at No. 13, or Chicago, at No. 14, or Dallas, which has the No. 22 and No. 28 picks, could be attracted by Oakland’s top pick.
“[Trading down] is something we’re looking at,” Kiffin said.
* JaMarcus’ weight: It had been reported that second-year quarterback JaMarcus Russell, whom Kiffin believes is the future of the franchise, has tipped the scales at 300-plus pounds this offseason. Not so, says Kiffin.
The coach wouldn’t say how much his prized player weighs, but emphasized that Russell is in good shape. Kiffin said he is fine with Russell playing in the 275-pound range and if Russell trimmed down to 260 or so he wouldn’t be as effective because of his body frame.
* Revenge is on tap: When it was announced Monday that the Raiders will open the season by hosting Denver on Monday night, Kiffin went straight to the motivation well.
He said he text messaged new receiver Javon Walker, who was signed by the Raiders last month to a lucrative deal days after being dumped by Denver. Walker quickly texted his coach back.
“I’m not going to say what he [wrote] … but let’s just say he is ready,” Kiffin said.
We’ll have more from Kiffin a bit later.
*****
Looks like Kiff is playing poker…this is all just standard info you give the media…remember, AL DAVIS MAKES THE PICKS…no one EVER thought that Al would draft a PUNTER or a KICKER in the 1st round…
I still say Dorsey or Ellis…but am beginning to see C. Long as a Raider–if he’s still available…
Wouldn’t be surprised if Al goes after DMac, however…
April 1st, 2008 at 8:46 pm
D Line is the most important position on a football team. These don’t get the pay the QB’s get, but I mean hey, its America, we’re all a bunch of primadonna’s!
Warren and Sands inside
Long and Burgess outside
Dorsey can have fun in Miami!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:46 pm
Huff24
My other question is…Why can’t we have 2 big guys in the middle? The Jaguars are beefed up in the middle and they are very successful. Why can’t we do that? Personally, I like the idea of…
LDE - Burgess
LDT - Sands - Nose Tackle
RDT - Warren - Nose Tackle/3 Technique
RDE - Long
And kelly coming off the bench???
April 1st, 2008 at 8:47 pm
Let Kelly compete to start, he’ll play better this way.
But obviously he’s in the mix!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:47 pm
Tommy Trojan, do you really think other teams are that interested in McFadden? Seems like a risk, considering his off the field situations. Seems like only a risk the Raiders would take. And since Davis is not known for drafting running backs, it’s really not likely. Maybe Davis will draft him to spite Kiffin? That’s the only scenario I can see leading to McFadden being in a silver and black uniform this summer.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:48 pm
Dorsey won’t be there at #4, but Gohlston will be
so the line-up will be:
On Running Downs:
LDE - Burgess
LDT - Sands
RDT - Kelly
RDE - Richardson
On Passing Downs:
LDE - Burgess
LDT - Warren
RDT - Kelly
RDE - Gohlston
April 1st, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Kiffin is an honest guy and he obviously has nothing to hide. I think he was being truthful when saying that the Raiders need defensive lineman. Its obvious. Trading the 4th pick will only happen if the Raiders don’t get the defensive line player they are coveting. If the desired defensive lineman are gone and McFadden is at #4, the Raiders could dangle him for draft picks and move up in the draft because there is obvious interest in him. If the Raiders don’t get any good offers, I think you have to take the best player available and that is McFadden at that point.
But in my opinion, the Raiders win taking either of the top 4 Defensive Lineman and I think thats why Kiffin is open about needing defensive lineman because hes not going to lose out on one. He gets one no matter what so who cares if everyone knows? He is a winner with Long, Dorsey, Ellis or Gholston and with all the money spent in free agency…we can’t really afford to have a full draft of players. Just pay the #4 guy and be done with it.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:50 pm
Chris Long is a Raider, just put that in your mind right right now fella’s!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Everyone needs D Line man unless you’re the Jags or the Giants!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:51 pm
who isnt a risk when giving a 21-24 yr old 20 million
April 1st, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Considering this year’s draft, our best move is to take the best D lineman available. If I’m Kiffin, and my hopes come true and I am involved with the drafting, I’m lobbying for one that can stop the run, and I’m immediately having him over for dinner and turning him against Rob Ryan. It’s all politics in this league.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:52 pm
Larry Bowa is having a MAJOR MELTDOWN right now…he just got tossed…he wasn’t in the 3rd base coach’s box, so he got tossed…
Yes, my Giants will stink this year…they can’t buy a hit…
*****
Back to Raider football–yes, RaiderMight, IT IS BIG NEWS when Kiffin gets to call a press conference these days…
April 1st, 2008 at 8:52 pm
Midwest, a risk beyond the ordinary, is what I meant. Isn’t he having some child support issues? I could be wrong, but it seems he’s already in hot water over something.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:54 pm
Mac Fadden fumbled 20+ times in college, you can’t even find the exact number online. All this hype is ridiculous to me, he’s an afterthought.
Just because Adrian Peterson looks like a future Hall of Famer has absolutely nothing to do with this draft or the potential of D. McFadden. Utterly amazing how THIS MOCK DRAFT BS affects people’s minds. Might as well go grab some McDonnalds like the commercials say.
F’in sheep!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:54 pm
I worked with a lady who dated Larry Bowa when they were at Sac City college together, and was jilted by him when he went pro. Last I talked to her, she still hadn’t gotten over him. She doesn’t allow anyone to mention his name. LOL. I’d love to meet the guy. He’s gotta be a riot.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Child support, umm, yep! That and his taxes!
April 1st, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Like the Raiders have cared obout off fiels issues,and heard 1 baby test was neg. and like when we all were that age we didnt do something we regreated and moved on and did it again going what was I thinking
April 1st, 2008 at 8:57 pm
Double H - I happen to be a Giants fan and the Baseball season is non-existent to me because the team is so bad. They better start playing the young guys so they can figure out who can stay for next year. I feel bad for the pitching because theres is so much talent outside of Barry Zito who sucks complete @$$. The young pitchers will be discouraged by poor records despite great performances.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:58 pm
Tommy Trojan says: it’s the typical smoke screen you see from every team this time of year, trust nothing the teams say about the draft…..
———
Exactly.
Last year everybody knew Al Davis would take J.Russ, so Kiffin went out hyping Calvin Johnson. This year everybody knows Al Davis will take McFadden, so Kiffin goes out hyping DL.
Same old song and dance.
Quotes from this time last year:
“Davis, following his customary practice, is saying nothing. The thinking in most draft precincts is that he will lead off the draft by reaching for JaMarcus Russell, LSU’s strapping, strong-armed quarterback. Not so fast.
During the NFL’s recent spring meetings in Phoenix, the player Lane Kiffin, the 31-year-old former USC coaching lieutenant whom Davis has tapped as Art Shell’s coaching successor, was discussing most glowingly was not Russell but Calvin Johnson, the Georgia Tech receiver who is widely viewed as the draft’s leading prize.
Kiffin advanced the point that when teams are screening a possible first-round selection, they look for what Kiffin termed “bad things.” Kiffin could cite none concerning Johnson.
“Unbelievable character,” Kiffin said.
By Kiffin’s account, what most impressed him about Johnson was that he arrived at the Indianapolis combine intending not to run for time. Watching others run, Johnson was moved.
“His competitive juices started flowing right there,” Kiffin said. Choosing to run, Johnson sped through the 40 in 4.35 seconds. He also had a vertical jump of 43 inches. That at 6 feet 5 and 239 pounds.”
April 1st, 2008 at 8:59 pm
Steveo - What in the hell makes you think that Houston would trade Andre Johnson and a 2nd for the rights to McFadden? They passed on Reggie Bush for a reason and drafted the best Defensive Lineman in Mario Williams. The Raiders should take notes on that because its worked out better for Houston.
April 1st, 2008 at 8:59 pm
Green Onions–I saw Bowa as a manager when he was managing the Padres (his first managing gig), and the guy had NUCLEAR MELTDOWNS literally once a week…he WAS a riot to watch, for sure, but man, he’s got to be drinking Pepto Bismol like the rest of us drink bottled water…
April 1st, 2008 at 9:00 pm
Desert Raider, a quick laugh for ya.
From Wikipedia:
“The Philadelphia Phillies were the only Major League team interested in Bowa. They sent a local scout, Eddie Bockman to watch Bowa play in a double header, only for Bowa to be thrown out of the game for arguing.”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Bowa
April 1st, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Joe Torre stayed outta his way, I know that.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:02 pm
D Mac just isn’t that good. Why do some of you keep thinking he’s Marcus Allen? Detroit finally got rid of their bum they thought was so great this offseason. Remember when they drafted him… If DMac was like Peterson then it would be different but I think Bush is going to impress. If you drafted DMac because you have an offense where you can use him in the slot and throw a different look to use his speed then maybe you go ahead and draft him otherwise he’s just the next overhyped thing to come along. He’s no AP or Stephen Jackson. DE if it’s Long! maybe Ghoulston but kind of undersized… Dorsey based on his health? Ellis is a good option and then maybe if it fits is DMac otherwise trade down if you get a good offer.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:03 pm
So how long is Mr. Davis gonna be around? I’d say at least 10 15 more years. He’s gonna win at least 5 more Super Bowls.
I heard both his parents lived to be over a 100, anyone out there that can comfirm this?
April 1st, 2008 at 9:04 pm
I believe Gholston is capable of playing strongside or inside linebacker on some downs. I know that’s kinda weird for a 4-3, but with our amazing secondary, and the fact that Morrison and Howard are fast enough to drop into coverage, maybe it’s not so crazy.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:04 pm
DoeDoe - Were you asking me if I would have Kelly coming off the bench? Absolutely. Why not? He hasn’t proven to be an effective starter playing every down anyways. Now..the problem is the amount he is getting paid which is something I would have avoided. To be honest…I thought it was best to not even re-sign Kelly because I think the Raiders have him WAY OVERRATED but what the hell do I know? Rob Ryan has some strange fascinations with certain players that I just don’t understand but I like the way the Jags defense is built and thats with beef in the middle. Thats how you stop the run. Burgess and Long on the outside is capable enough to get to the QB with hopefully some blitzing attached to that by our fast linebackers.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:04 pm
# Midwest-Raider Says:
April 1st, 2008 at 8:56 pm
Like the Raiders have cared obout off fiels issues,and heard 1 baby test was neg. and like when we all were that age we didnt do something we regreated and moved on and did it again going what was I thinking
….
Oh, I absolutely agree. The Raiders couldn’t care less. But other teams aren’t the Raiders, and other teams tend to be skeptical of draft picks with any kind of drama going on. Therefore, how do we use him as trade bait, considering there isn’t much demand? As far as how the Raiders could use him, again, Al Davis does not draft running backs this high, normally. Kaufman was the last one, I believe. I can only picture the Raiders drafting McFadden just to spite Kiffin. And if that turned out to be the case, that wouldn’t be good.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:05 pm
what bum In detroit?
April 1st, 2008 at 9:06 pm
Huff re post 114:
this explains the position very well and the different options/styles for DTs.
http://football.calsci.com/Positions8.html
April 1st, 2008 at 9:08 pm
Beef on the inside isn’t just for stuffing holes, its for occupying the double team. If you have two big hogs inside, they take up space, they take up blocks, which in turn, frees the backers up to roam and make plays.
I actually like the 3-4. You get 3 Hogs to occupy their 5 Olineman, than you really have some space for your backers to roam, but what do I know?
Ha
April 1st, 2008 at 9:08 pm
Speaking of sports teams that should be more like the Raiders, regarding putting aside players’ off the field issues, think San Fran’s missing Barry?
April 1st, 2008 at 9:08 pm
Kiffin, Ryan, and Al all love Kelly. Ryan thinks he is the best 3 technique in the league: he is a starter at DT.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:09 pm
Kiffin could be telling the truth and still giving away nothing. Misdirection is the normal coarse, and all of the other teams have to consider the possibility that Kiffin is trying to misdirect, so even if he is telling the truth it could serve to mislead.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:09 pm
funny how people here are suggesting that teams don’t want a McFadden because of “character issues” but think teams are lining up at the door to get Fabian Washington, the guy with criminal charges pending for choking his girlfriend.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:09 pm
Thanks Green Onions…
April 1st, 2008 at 9:10 pm
all Im saying if he is there at #4 and they think he can help us win then pik him,or if say the cowgirls want him work a trade thats ok we are drafting him but!!!! If you draft this player and this player and this player or give us this player off your roster we like dont just trade down to trade down make sure they get what they want or no deal!
April 1st, 2008 at 9:10 pm
Gholston or long would be home runs for the Raiders. I can imagine Long or Gholston making an instant impact. Gholston and Long are both solid against the run. I hope we get one of those if not take a FLYER ON CLADY and call it a day.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:14 pm
I think I remember reading somewhere that Al’s mom, Rose Davis, may have lived to 100…
The Giants are up, 1-0, top of the 7th…A’s are losing 2-1…anybody know how the Warriors are doing? Aren’t they playing Dallas tonight?
April 1st, 2008 at 9:14 pm
The Giants are a cream puff w/o Bonds. One last off topic question, did any of you make it to that Dodger game at the Coliseum Saturday? I’d been planning on getting tickets to that since they announced the event, but it snuck up on me and I missed that call in where the seats were at the 3 dollar face value. Afterward, the scalpers wanted like 50 each. I was in LA this weekend, too. Really bumbed me out not being at that game. I did buy an LA Times that day, though, and have the special Sports Section on the Dodgers 50th ann. Interesting article about the residents being evicted from Chavez Ravine. Kind of sad. One of those parts of history they sort of sweep under the rug on us.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Mcfadden is not a charecter risk he is just a dumb kid. The only Rb taken in the past five years that has panned out is lT. The rest have all ben busts. Taking a Rb at that spot would be incredibly dumb because you have 5 running backs on the roster that can play in the NFL: Fargas, Rhodes, Jordan, Echamandu, and Bush. Don’t take this kid at that position. did anyone see the impact that Bradshaw and Ryan Grant had last year for the NYG and GB last year. Where did they come from and who predicted they would be studs? My point is that would a good O line you can throw any RB back there and just rip through defenses especially in the Gibbs/ Cable zone blocking scheme.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:14 pm
if Kiffin was really serious about trading, wouldnt he say the Raiders WILL draft McFadden? it could make teams more likely to trade up
April 1st, 2008 at 9:15 pm
Pirate - Very helpful thank you.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:17 pm
I have to say also i like some of the deals Al has made F/A,he has brought in some young guys who were high picks that maybe havent lived up to there billing ,and signed them to low end contracts after they have got there big money and blown it and know know hey I messed up my first few yrs know its time to play to get payed again
April 1st, 2008 at 9:17 pm
dick v,
are you saying that all RBs drafted after LT are busts, or just RBs drafted in the 1st rd?
April 1st, 2008 at 9:17 pm
Warriors lose, Denver wins
Warriors half game outta the playoff hunt!
April 1st, 2008 at 9:19 pm
Reggie Bush, Peterson, Marshawn Lynch to name 3 pretty good players.
But McFadden isn’t these guys!
April 1st, 2008 at 9:23 pm
We have 25 more days…maybe Al will continue to surprise us by another big FA signing before the 26th…I’m out…
April 1st, 2008 at 9:23 pm
The media has got to love Kiffin for speaking his mind. I think he is doing so because there is not a chance of trading down but man is he playing with fire. It is so obvious that he does not like AD.
The Longs and Dorsey are gone when we draft so it comes down to Ellis or Gholston. But if it was me drafting, Brandon Albert would get strong consideration for a LT. I also think the Falcons are the wild card with Matt Ryan.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:24 pm
dick v Says:
April 1st, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Mcfadden is not a charecter risk he is just a dumb kid. The only Rb taken in the past five years that has panned out is lT. The rest have all ben busts. Taking a Rb at that spot would be incredibly dumb because you have 5 running backs on the roster that can play in the NFL: Fargas, Rhodes, Jordan, Echamandu, and Bush. Don’t take this kid at that position. did anyone see the impact that Bradshaw and Ryan Grant had last year for the NYG and GB last year. Where did they come from and who predicted they would be studs? My point is that would a good O line you can throw any RB back there and just rip through defenses especially in the Gibbs/ Cable zone blocking scheme.
Like I said before D-mac is a upgrade,we have Rhodes(8th)yr was going to be cut by Indy,Fargas love is work ethic(6thyr hurt alot) Bush great pick in the 4th if he is was what he was after that like u wouldnt want D-mac over Jordan or anyone else come on get real I would rather have D-mac and Bush as mr inside and mr outside for the next 6-7 yrs then what we have know
April 1st, 2008 at 9:25 pm
a 275+ lb qb with the strongest arm in the NFL scrambling around..
i want to see bulldoze someone rushing to tackle him
April 1st, 2008 at 9:26 pm
Defensive lineman is the need and McFadden is the trade bait. The Raiders will play their cards accordingly.
Adrian Peterson is supposed to be that once every 10 years type RB right? Well..if that holds true, then McFadden is a year shy of it and we won’t see another Peterson for about 9 years.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:27 pm
We are passing the ball inside the 20’s guys, his name is Jamarcus Russell. This run game stuff is for coming out and going into the endzones. There’s your Mr. inside and outside!
Football has evolved, some of us are aware of this?
April 1st, 2008 at 9:29 pm
Adrian Peterson is supposed to be that once every 10 years type RB right? Well..if that holds true, then McFadden is a year shy of it and we won’t see another Peterson for about 9 years.
So does that make A/P another Bo Jackson a once in a 10 yr back that gets hurt like in college and is done in 2-3 yrs
April 1st, 2008 at 9:34 pm
If C. Long is’nt there, We get Gholston. This is what Kiffin is saying. Because he says Kelly is at this best at 3 technique.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:36 pm
Bo Jackson doesn’t get compared to anyone.
Bo was the best at his best!
April 1st, 2008 at 9:36 pm
A whole lot of wishful thinking by the DMC freaks. I think Kiffin echoed my sentiments about the skinny HB and he aint spendin’ that kind of jack on a guy that can’t carry the load especially when he is NOT a need.
Wishful thinkin’ that’s all it is.
I’ve said it a hundred times we just don’t need that kid………..period
April 1st, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Brandon Albert is not even a tackle.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Huff24
RR said Tommy Kelly is the best 3-tecn in the league - Kiffin and Al like him - Warren Sapp said when all said is done Tommy will break all of his records - Here is what Bill Belichick said “Tommy Kelly. is one of the best defensive linemen in the league. He’s an outstanding player…Kelly plays everywhere. He’s a little bit like Howie Long in that Howie Long was a guy that they would move along on the front. They would take Howie and mismatch him against whoever they thought the other team’s worst lineman was. There is a little bit of that with Tommy Kelly., too, find a guy that they want to go after and stick him there because he does have the flexibility to play outside and inside. He can pretty much play across the board. He can do everything. Play the run, rush the passer, he’s good in pursuit. He’s a very physical player. He’s pretty good.” - Bill Belichick
and a 50 million dollar - with all do respect Kelly should and will be our starter next year @ DT
April 1st, 2008 at 9:38 pm
I’ve said it a hundred times we just don’t need that kid………..period
And the backs we have are so much Better
April 1st, 2008 at 9:40 pm
This smokescreen argument is holding much water.
CJ was talked about because he actually fit a need as well, right? If we would have been able to get Matt Shaub from Houston like we were trying to do, then CJ would have been the pick.
C’mon, on DRAFT DAY, we all knew JR was the pick due to the fact that the NEED at QB was greater.
Here’s a though … If we didn’t take AP last year with our running game truly in shambles, why would we draft a RB when our running game is at the top of the league?
April 1st, 2008 at 9:41 pm
All RB’s Drafted in the 1st Round:
2007
Adrian Peterson - Great
Marshawn Lynch
2006
Reggie Bush
Laurence Maroney
DeAngelo Williams
Joseph Addai
2005
Ronnie Brown
Cedric Benson
Cadillac Williams
2004
Steven Jackson
Chris Perry
Kevin Jones
2003
Willis McGahee
Larry Johnson
2002
William Green
T.J. Duckett
2001
Ladainian Tomlinson - Great
Deuce McAllister
Michael Bennett
2000
Jamal Lewis
Thomas Jones
Ron Dayne
Shaun Alexander
Trung Canidate
1999
Edgerrin James
Ricky Williams
April 1st, 2008 at 9:42 pm
*isn’t*
April 1st, 2008 at 9:46 pm
How you figure A/P great he had what 6 -8 good games and he is great,there are almost 17 othe backs on that list who I would say have done ok as well
April 1st, 2008 at 9:46 pm
There’s a lot of backs on that list I think are at least better than good.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:48 pm
I think DMAC would be a Hester-like kick returner for us, too. It would be nice to get TDS on kickoffs and punts.
I think Fargas is fragile, Rhodes will be gone soon enough, and even if Bush IS able to return to his old self physically, we’re going to need a speedier back to accompany him in the future. I’m not one of the people pushing for McFaddden, but it’s not a terrible idea like some people suggest. AND, it;s not like there are no problems with drafting Dorsey or Gholston.
April 1st, 2008 at 9:48 pm
Yea,
Wev’e done so GREAT picking D- Linemen in the 1st round!!
Guys like Darrell Russell, Tyler Brayton and Scott Davis…O’h yea and the GREAT Chester McGlockton!!!
O’h YEA!! AWESOME!!!
I cant wait for another GREAT D-LINEMAN like those CLOWNS future HOF’s!!! LOL!!
FRICKEN DEPRESSING!!
Give me a break!!
April 1st, 2008 at 9:48 pm
Matt Shaub
Wasnt he in Alanta and went to Houston?
April 1st, 2008 at 9:49 pm
1998
Curtis Enis
Fred Taylor
Robert Edwards
John Avery
1997
Warrick Dunn
Antowain Smith
1996
Lawrence Phillips
Tim Biakabatuka
Eddie George
1995
Ki-Jana Carter
Tyrone Wheatley
Napolean Kaufman
James Stewart
Rashaan Salaam
1994
Marshall Faulk - Great
Greg Hill
1993
Garrison Hearst
Jerome Bettis
Robert Smith
1992
Tony Smith
Vaughn Dunbar
1991
Leonard Russell
Harvey Williams
1990
Blair Thomas
Emmitt Smith
Darrell Thompson
Steve Broussard
Rodney Hampton
Dexter Carter
1989
Barry Sanders - Great
Tim Worley
Sammie Smith
Cleveland Gary
1988
Gaston Green
John Stephens
Lorenzo White
Brad Muster
Craig Hayward
April 1st, 2008 at 9:50 pm
Just signed on. This is great news to get confirmation that Kiffen is on board. We have made some excellent acquisition