Hartwell aboard, preseason dates finalized
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Tuesday, May 6th, 2008 at 4:57 pm in Oakland Raiders.
All that awaits Edgerton Hartwell’s addition to the Raiders linebacking corps is the official annoucement.
Hartwell excelled playing alongside Ray Lewis with the Baltimore Ravens from 2001 through 2004, cashing in with a six-year, $26 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons. He played in only 13 games before being released, the victim of an Achilles’ tendon tear in 2005.
He signed with the Cincinnati Bengals on May 3, 2007, but was released before the season started on Sept. 1.
The best case scenario is Hartwell stepping in as a strong side linebacker alongside middle linebacker Kirk Morrison and weakside linebacker Thomas Howard and giving some much-needed muscle on running downs, and coming off the field on passing downs.
At worst, the Raiders determine Hartwell, 30, can’t hold up physically and he fails to make the roster as Donovin Darius did last training camp. It’s a no-lose proposition.
He will get plenty of opportunities in what figures to be the most interest month of August since the team returned to Oakland in 1995.
The Raiders have finalized all their preseason dates _ they’ll host the San Francisco 49ers Aug. 8, visit the Tennessee Titans Aug. 15, host the Arizona Cardinals Aug. 23 and finish the preseason in Seattle on Aug. 29.
With JaMarcus Russell taking over as the starting quarterback, and the Raiders probably giving him extended time, as well as the addition of high-profile free agents such as Javon Walker, Gibil Wilson and DeAngelo Hall, plus the drafting of No. 4 overall pick Darren McFadden, even hard-core preseason cynics (guilty as charged) are curious.
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May 6th, 2008 at 4:59 pm
1st?
May 6th, 2008 at 5:00 pm
closest to #1 i’ll ever get…
May 6th, 2008 at 5:00 pm
First
May 6th, 2008 at 5:02 pm
Can’t wait for football season!!
May 6th, 2008 at 5:04 pm
still need to pickup another two gap strong DT or DE.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:14 pm
Curious indeed we all are Jerry!!! … I’m in
May 6th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
Bueno
May 6th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
I can’t wait
May 6th, 2008 at 5:24 pm
With so many young ones…and new ones… we’ll should get some extended play time which WILL make it all the more interesting… Bush… is he strong (much more playing time for him)… Henderson… is he a legit player in our system?… DMC… JR…JLH…new Branch (will #33 show flashes of the original #21??)… Huff Hall Nnamndi Gbril… the new fearsome foursome… … so much drama to see to watch
May 6th, 2008 at 5:32 pm
Can’t wait!
May 6th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
I am very happy about the addition of Hartwell. I hope the guy can stay healthy and make the team because we are in dire need of linebacker help considering the poor talent we have with our curry depth. I really think we should move Morrison to weakside, Howard to the strongside and have Hartwell in the middle. The problem occurs if Hartwell gets injured because then we’re forced to move people around again. Maybe Strong side is best for him in so we don’t mess with it too much but part of the reason we are poor against the run is Morrison in the middle.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Nfl.com pole has Buffalo winning the AFC South not NE. if thats wot division they r in lol. Why r they so rated i dnt get it.
This is the start of a dynasty im telling u. All we need is 1 of the recievers- JLH, Sheilds or Chaz and Sands to step up and then the team will be dangerous
May 6th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
man I wish the old man would talk to Jerry Jones and see what he wants for either Carpenter or Spears. I would give up next years 2nd rounder for either in a heartbeat!
May 6th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
BEARS CUT ADAM ARCHULETA
Posted by Michael David Smith on May 6, 2008, 6:26 p.m.
The Chicago Bears announced today that they have released safety Adam Archuleta after one year with the team.
Last March the Bears traded their 2007 sixth-round draft pick to the Redskins in exchange for Archuleta, who had just finished a disappointing season in Washington. He played in 15 games for the Bears, starting 10. (The Redskins used the pick to draft quarterback Jordan Palmer.)
Archuleta had his best seasons with the Rams from 2001 to 2005, with Lovie Smith, now the Bears’ head coach, as his defensive coordinator. When Archuleta signed with Chicago, it looked like reuniting with Smith would make it the right fit.
But the Bears apparently felt that Archuleta was expendable because they like the other safeties on the roster, including Mike Brown, Brandon McGowan, Danieal Manning, Kevin Payne and rookie fourth-round draft choice Craig Steltz.
The 30-year-old Archuleta will now be an unrestricted free agent.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
We should at least take a look at Archuleta for depth purposes.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:37 pm
I dunno Huff… I’d rather bring along Branch… For some camp competition maybe…but after dumping Darius last year… I’d rather have some young fellas coming up in the depth charts
May 6th, 2008 at 5:41 pm
L.T. THE NEW FAVRE?
Posted by Mike Florio on May 5, 2008, 9:01 a.m.
September 3 will mark the six-year anniversary of the never-ending (and still continuing) question of when and if Brett Favre will be done with football. Peter King of Sports Illustrated spawned the cottage industry of Favre conjecture with an item in which Brett mused about no longer having to deal with the rigors of the game.
“I think about retirement a heck of a lot more than I used to,” a then-32-year-old Favre said at the time. “I miss home. I know it’s nuts, but [coach] Mike Sherman told us today he was giving us Saturday and Sunday off this week, and the guys were all excited. All I could think was, I wish I could be on my lawn mower back home.”
And with Favre now retired (we think) and Giants defensive end Michael Strahan temporarily (we think) assuming the mantle of the high-profile player most likely to next retire, we need to add another name to the mix.
Unfortunately.
And the guy is Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson.
In an interview with Colleen Dominguez of ESPN, Tomlinson strongly suggested that he might walk away from the NFL sooner than anyone realizes. The topic came up after Dominguez estimated that L.T. is roughly five solid seasons away from toppling Emmitt Smith’s all-time rushing mark.
Tomlinson said in response that he might not play that long.
“It comes a time where you gotta walk away from the game,” he said. “I really would like to walk away from the game on top. I dont want to be a player that’s declining and have to be kicked out of the league and not getting picked up by a team.”
That last statement might have been a backhanded slap at running back Shaun Alexander, the 2005 NFL MVP who was run out of Seattle last month, and who is not beating the bushes for a new gig.
So, as to Tomlinson, what does “walking away from the game on top” mean? He’ll be 29 in June, he entered the league only one year after the aforementioned Alexander, and Tomlinson was the MVP a year after Shaun.
In our view, it all means that (unfortunately) we need to now constantly assess, year after year, whether L.T. will return. He sounds committed to playing again in 2008. Beyond that, it’s anybody’s guess.
Especially if his goal is to walk away before his skills begin to erode.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:41 pm
I say we let LT retire early…lets start with this year. The McFadden/Bush era awaits.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
tomlinson is beginning to leak oil.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:44 pm
Tonio - Well…theres no guarentee that Branch is going to be a great safety and we have 2 good starters right now. To me…Branch’s biggest contribution will be on special teams. I’d rather have a pure Safety added to the mix for depth instead of another safety/corner/special teamer tweener. Look, all draft picks look good one way or the other. Theres always positives but how often do these later round guys make the team?
May 6th, 2008 at 5:45 pm
doubtful hartwell sticks as well.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:45 pm
Tomlinson is leaking blood and the silver and black shark awaits
May 6th, 2008 at 5:47 pm
LT is thinking retirement because Norv Turner is his Head Coach and he knows the Raiders are on the way up. He doesn’t want to experience getting beat up by the Raiders so he’s going to dip out before it happens. He knows hes not going to win anything with Norv. Just quit LT…just quit.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
True again Huff… I don’t remember how well or not well he did last year… would have to be an improvement over Stu’s tackling abilities…
May 6th, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Our team leaks oil. Haha. We have alot of injured players and thats sad considering how young the team is. We’re talking about guys in their 20’s. I’m 25 and I’ve got my knee pops and all but I can’t imagine what they feel. Their too young for that.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Lol @ just quit… We’re on our way… … I wanna see Hall intercept LT and run it back to the house!!!
May 6th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
BTW, remember we signed safety Rashad Baker off New Englands roster. Baker was captain and a preseason All American of a national champion Un of Tenn team. He was the first undrafted free agent safety to ever start in the NFL. He really has never seen any playing time, but he might here.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
Wait till you hit 40 Huff…lol…
May 6th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
Good point Oak…he could be another “steal” of ours this off season… *Please O-line be worthy… Please be worthy*… “In Cable we Trust”
May 6th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
Tonio - Well…from what I understand, Archuleta is similiar to Derrick Gibson. Now, I’m not a Gibson fan but at least both are good against the run. Stu doesn’t seem to be good in general so lets add a guy who can at least tackle ya know? Then we can have Huff, Wilson, Cooper, Branch and Archuleta. The last 3 guys can play special teams and all 3 are good tacklers.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:53 pm
Tonio - Nah. I don’t want to have any more birthdays. I’m boycotting it.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:53 pm
Where the heck is Gibson anyways… is he in the league?
May 6th, 2008 at 5:53 pm
Huff hopefully we’re changing some of the gaskets on our team.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
I watched Field of Dreams lastnight. It had been awhile since I had see it and my lady had never seen it before. She really liked it. Its such a good movie. You guys should watch it tonight. If you have “On Demand” its available there.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:55 pm
Oakglenn - The right strength coach can make all the difference in the world.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:56 pm
Huff — Archuleta can hit you hard…if he can catch you. Don’t need any slower DB’s.
It’s why we draft speed all the time — RR can’t seem to get these guys to understand pursuit angles and good tackling technique. They need that speed to catch ‘em all from behind.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Well…maybe we need someone a little slower who can be patient before he attempts to tackle someone so he doesn’t miss completely?
May 6th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Damn Jerry you just gettin the memo or something? …this has been reported days ago.
May 6th, 2008 at 5:59 pm
Huff Look at you!!! I think the addition of Brad Roll is going to be HUGE!! Brad Roll is an effing ball buster and I think conditioning has been a problem with this team for years!! Good for you man.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
Will NE get the Super Bowl jinx is the question. Bears definitely got it. Everyone is expecting NE to return to the big dance but that jinx, if you want to call it that, is still out there.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
May 6th, 2008 at 6:02 pm
Terrapin - I think Jerry was just waiting for it to become official as it has yet to reach Raiders.com. No use getting peoples hopes up.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:02 pm
Terra… it’s been reported days ago..but wasn’t official till today…
05/06/2008 QB Brian White (Portland State) Signed
05/06/2008 LB Edgerton Hartwell Signed
05/06/2008 DE Greyson Gunheim (Washington) Signed
May 6th, 2008 at 6:03 pm
Greyson kid is a diamond in the ruff … He’ll shock some people .. .keep an eye on this one!
May 6th, 2008 at 6:03 pm
Terrapin - The Patriots will “cheat” the jinx like they have with everything else. They’ll find some way to get tape on that.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
Kobe Bryant - From Cheating Husband to MVP. Man, times have changed.
This must mean Hilary Clinton becomes President. Understand this carefully…Bill Clinton will be our 1st man. The guy who cheated on his wife (The President), who almost got impeached and yet still got back in the White House.
We better up our earthquake insurance.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
Nah…its just that that webmaster is just damn lazy lol..thats all. The roster is never updated. They still have Huff at SS and Wilson is a the bottom of the charts at FS when he’s already been guaranteed the starting gig (as reported of course). Heck, they still had Newberry on the depth chart as much as a few days ago.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
Can’t get the link up, but if you go to cnn.com , scroll down to the Sports headlines, and there is a link to a Top-10 ways the NFL would’ve been different if…
Howie is on the cover @ #7
May 6th, 2008 at 6:08 pm
With that…the “cheating” Patriots will probably find a way to win the Superbowl with another 18-1 performance…enhancing…drug.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:09 pm
A young Howie. Back when he pitched for Ford, not Chevy!
May 6th, 2008 at 6:10 pm
Seriously though …can’t wait for the mini-camp and training camp reports to come out …then I’ll be salivating for some preseason action …then I’ll be pissin’ my pants waitin on MNF …the season never ends just the level of action changes.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
What up Nation!
I think Hartwell was a very smart pick up. He can handle the strongside as well as man the middle if need be. Thats what you call a 2 for 1 deal, plus we got him at what will definitely be a cheaper price than what Takeo Spikes would command. I bet there are a lot of teams (behind closed doors) that are really taking notice of the moves we’ve made this off season and will be very reluctant to mark us down as a easy win. Overflowing with optimism. I wish it was August so we can kick things off for real. YA KNOW?!
May 6th, 2008 at 6:13 pm
I am not too excited about Hartwell. I would have rather took a flyer on Takeo spikes for strong side backer. i hope Hartwell can rebound with the Raiders, but he has been injured and out of commission for 3-4 years now.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:13 pm
The American way Huff…
Hayes… yeah I saw that.. .Still wish we coulda got his boy… seeing him in the 75 jersey… (woopin up on the Niners twice a year is a consolation).
May 6th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
AD is very good at waiting until people have forgotten about a certain player and then stepping in and low balling them. The player takes the offer because there aren’t any others offering the the Raiders get a steal at a much discounted price. Lets be real, the guy has talent and the only thing that kept him from getting signed was the recent injury history. Low risk, High reward. AD loves those and players end up loving him because hes the only one that gave them a chance when times were down.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:16 pm
I bet the Raiders don’t have Marty Shottemheimer crappin his pants about the
Raider pickups. They’ve specialized in flashy offseasons for years. I think the league will have to wait and see, like everyone else.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
The Raiders have everything the NFL needs for mass marketing/promotion. You can’t get much better than: JaMarcus Russell, Darren McFadden, Michael Bush, Javon Walker, DeAngelo Hall and Nnamdi Aso (lesser public flames in Kirk Morrison, Thomas Howard and Derrick Burgess with soon to be big timer in Zach Miller). Man the entire league must be curious. I sure as hell am!
Nnamdi, if he performs on par, is going to benefit big time from the media attention that Hall brings coming from Atlanta. If the defense performs well they both are going to the Pro-Bowl - most definitely! (I honestly worry that he’s not in training due to him not signing the tender yet).
May 6th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
Everyone likes to be liked…especially if you’ve been down… and especially if you’ve a ego which all (pro) athletes have… so … when AD talks the talk in your ear… brings up your h/s girl friend kissing you after that 80 touchdown return… you get all excited…and energized… … I hope he is what we like to have… a player… who’s regained physical form …and mental interest…
May 6th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
Maybe Spikes is still in the cards. Who knows?
May 6th, 2008 at 6:20 pm
Hmmmm, the chaos police must have raided this joint and emptied out the Trolls.
Nice.
In my dreams, Hartwell takes over at MLB and Morrison and Howard reek havoc at the OLB position….
May 6th, 2008 at 6:21 pm
9 ta 10 wins in the cards… that’s what I’m hoping on…(all in one season).
May 6th, 2008 at 6:21 pm
I think Zach Miller is an unknown commodity and it works out to our benefit. That guy is going to shock some people when they end up distracted over Walker, Carter, Curry, Bush, McFadden and Co.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:22 pm
totally agree on Miller… We should nickname him Stealth… as he’ll be under the radar… hauling in the JR Bombs…
May 6th, 2008 at 6:24 pm
Rashad Baker
2008 Scouting Report - Scouts Inc.
Grade: 50 | Key
Alert: None
Comment: Baker is a restricted free agent who was claimed off waivers from the Vikings during the 2006 season. He already has become a bit of a journeyman in that he already is with his third team. He has started three games over his career, but was primarily just a special teams player with the Patriots. He does not have great height or size for the safety position. He is aggressive but is not very physical, and one of his liabilities has been consistency in run support.
He is a willing insert player, but he is not a physical or consistent tackler. He has some coverage skills for a safety. He is a good overall athlete and shows some quickness in transition coming forward and playing in reverse. He shows pretty good play speed and range when running from hash to sideline in Cover 2. He needs to improve his feel, awareness and instincts. Overall he has some good physical tools to work with but has never been able to stick for a long time in one place.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:25 pm
Oakglenn - I can’t say that I am impressed with your boy Baker.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:25 pm
[...] Read more. Posted in Blog, Oakland Raiders | [...]
May 6th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Tonio - Haha. Yes…well…those bombs will be short to intermediate of course but they shall include enough TD’s to go along with it.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:27 pm
As long as they hit the target (endzone)…
Out for Now Nation… traffic time.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
Huff24..
post #14..
wild! it was a guy i loved after the ‘06 season, I would welcome him, it wont happen, but what a backfield we suddenly would have =)
May 6th, 2008 at 6:30 pm
These are obviously behind but this is interesting to read anyways.
2008 Scouting Report - Scouts Inc.
Grade: 20 | Key
Alert: D
Strengths: A gifted receiver with good initial quickness and speed for the tight end position. He’s a threat to stretch the seam as a pass-catcher. Displays good awareness and will find soft spots in zone coverage. Shows enough burst to separate from LB’s and some DS’s as a route runner. He does a good job of getting open quickly in the short-passing game. Displays soft hands and will look the ball in when working in traffic. Displays the ability to make the tough catch and hold onto the ball when taking a big hit.
He can adjust to the poorly thrown ball. Shows good quickness and vision to gain yards after catch. Projects as a TE/HB ‘tweener type in the NFL. Takes solid angles as a blocker and will do a good job of walling off defenders in space. Gives good effort as a blocker.
Weaknesses: Lacks ideal bulk and doesn’t have much room left on his frame to grow. He seems to be at maximum bulk, which may explain some of his durability issues. He’s not an overly physical blocker. Gets good positioning in space but doesn’t show the lower-body strength to drive defenders out of the way. He also lacks explosive upper body power to jar defenders at the point of contact.
Overall: Miller started all 12 games as a true freshman in 2004, when he set a school record for tight ends with 56 receptions and 552 yards with six touchdowns. He had shoulder surgery before the 2005 season but returned to start 10 games — he missed two games that season (Northwestern and Oregon State) — due to an ankle sprain and finished 2005 with 476 yards and four TDs on 38 catches.
Miller is a third-year junior prospect that has yet to make his decision regarding the 2007 NFL draft. He has durability issues and must improve his bulk/strength in order to match up better as an in-line blocker. However, he is a proven weapon when stretching the seams as a receiver and he displays soft hands to emerge as a reliable target in the NFL. If Miller elects to leave school early he should be one of the top two or three tight ends selected — possibly as high as the first round.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
We still need another WR. That much I can’t ignore. We need that Reggie Wyane/Marvin Harrison combo. Carter may be good but I’m not confident he’ll be That good. Walker is too much of an injury risk and Curry is good but not great. One (or two) more elite WRs will put the skill positions over the top.
ZMiller was the top rookie TE last season despite all the attention Olson was getting. The better the line got the more opportunities ZMiller got from not having to block all game. Hopefully he’ll have to block even less this season and we’ll see just how much of a “football” player we got.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
I never said the guy was Ed Reed, but then he has never really gotten a chance either. Bellichik certainly saw something in him. So do I.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
Every team in the NFL knows what Zach Miller brings. He’s no longer under the radar. There’s enough film to see he’s the real-deal, and they’ll account for him (or try to).
May 6th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
i agree with dark, carpenter and spears would be great pick ups, but i cant see the team trading spears, carpenter maybe.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
LMN - I remember Archuleta being linked to the Raiders as a target during the year he got drafted because of his nasty hitting style. Once again, the Rams stole him too. Of course, he hasn’t seemed to pan out the way everyone expected him too.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:33 pm
Walter + ?? for Anquan Boldin.
It can happen.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
i dont like archuleta, and i think we are set at safety, one more LB like carpenter and DE or DT, and i can honestly see us making the postseason.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
The nice thing about all the additions to the offense is that we’re unpredictable once again. No team can realistically look at last years film and get anything from it because the outlook has changed. The QB will be different, the RB will be different, the WR’s will be different, some offensive line pieces will be different. What this all equates to is the playbook being opened up and nobody knows what to expect from that. We can only pray that we’re not too conservative like last year.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
im sorry hayes, that will never happen, you and i can hope but no way.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
“Raiders on the Way to Superbowl”…or something like that is how the headline read back in 1993-4….the article was in the Oakland Tribune or SF Comical…
“With Tim Brown and Raghib ‘The Rocket’ Ismail as WRs, Hoss at the helm, and the rugged bruising Napolean McCallum at RB, McDaniels, Eddie Anderson, et al, we were headed for the Super Bowl…
…and I bought it…until we played SF and got creamed…McCallum had a career ending knee fracture…and I saw how many pieces to the puzzle sometimes don’t fit…
Not this time…
May 6th, 2008 at 6:36 pm
Raider O - Well…you’re talking about a trade for a player that won’t happen. I’m talking about a player who is now an unrestricted free agent. Big difference in how you go about getting that particular player. We can make up trade scenarios all day.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:36 pm
you guys think Schilens will make the final roster, i hope so the guy is a freak.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:37 pm
Huff24…
it be a luxury to have him as backup and ST player, but I would love it =)
May 6th, 2008 at 6:37 pm
why are we discssing the secondary…..?
adam archuleta sucks , he’s done ! he was good his first couple of years, then he got exposed he gets beat down field. expect jon gruden to pick him up. he wanted him when we took his side kick derrick ( i can’t guard nobody either ) gibson.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:38 pm
boldin is an unrestricted FA?
May 6th, 2008 at 6:39 pm
With all the WR’s we have gone through the last 10 years, I don’t expect anybody to make the roster unless he makes alot of money ala Walker, Carter, Curry. Everyone else is open game. The question is, who can beat out Chris McFoy? Ummm..everyone.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:39 pm
Raider O - No…Archuleta.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:39 pm
huf, sre you sure, i think he has 2 more years on his contract, thats why he wanted to redo his contract.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:40 pm
Interesting Post Huff24. I agree with Oakglenn to a point. Tomlinson may still be a superstar, but last year he showed signs of wearing down a little bit. He’s not that big and he takes a lot of hits.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:41 pm
Linds is right. Archuleta is done as well.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:41 pm
oh, archuleta, sorry thought you mean boldin. you think we need another safety.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:43 pm
Man I hope the colts pick up Rhodes, I don’t want him to end up in Denver or Kansas
May 6th, 2008 at 6:43 pm
i think our secondary is great, we have starters and backups. we need one more LB and a D-lineman, and we are set, and on offense i think we are set.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:43 pm
Dick V,,,
I understand what ya saying, I just think if healthy Hartwell gives us more options. Remember Takeo Spikes has some injury issues as well.
Now to those that think Miller is under the radar, trust me thats not true at all. He already made noise last season and lead rookie TEs in receptions. Everbody had Olson as the best TE coming out the draft last year athletically, but many agreed that Miller was a more complete TE. So trust me eyes will be on Miller. He just wont be the main focus because teams will be game planning for McFadden.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
schilens should get plenty of opportunities…
i like his highlight reel on you tube. + runs a 4.3 and 43 inch vertical….hmmm.
could be a poor man’s randy moss. lets not forget also moss ain’t your great route running receiver. speed and leaping ability. we should read a little tease this weekend.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Jonathan Holland, Chris McFoy, Will Buchanan.
Have we seen the last of these guys? gawd.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
so what WRs you guys think will make the roster other than RC,JW,JLH,and DC?
May 6th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
Boldin would make a great possession receiver opposite Walker.
When Curry was at his best he was putting up great numbers…last year was an anomaly…unsure what happened.
Carter…way better than James Jett ever, ever , ever was.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
Zach Miller really exceeded the Raider coaching staff expectations. He was considered an very good receiver but not much of a blocker. Well, Kiff and Cable NEEDED him in there to block for the first two thirds of the season and he really improved my midseason. Later in the season they cut him loose to run more patterns and we all know what happened there.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:47 pm
Oakglenn…
you were totally excited by Darius, who had a small chance to get back in the NFL, but you diss the idea of Adam because he is done? that doesn’t compute, there are tons of arguments why he shouldn’t be a backup in Oakland, but that he is done is not one of them. He is in far better state than Donovin Darius was when he arrived in Oakland…
May 6th, 2008 at 6:48 pm
Measure your expectations gents. This is still a team that won very little last year, 4 games to be exact, with a Rookie QB and many new faces now to boot. It will still take time. Its the defense that should be stable by now you would think; but they too have new faces and position changes, so its all new. It will take a little bit of time I think. I wouldn’t get too overzealous and expect the world this season. Just progress throughout the year all things considered would due for me. I just can’t remember the last time I’ve had so much confidence in the Offensive staff - Kiffin (and Al) have really put something special together imho: Kiffin, Knapp, Rathman, Cable and Lofton …these are some very good coaches imo.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:48 pm
i agree with linds, Schilens can be our moss, the guy is a freak.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:49 pm
How long is Sam Williams going to occupy a roster spot? He’s been around long enough without much return.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:50 pm
lets not forget that JR is a rookie that went 22/3i passes 230 plus yards over a great chargers D.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
http://www.raiders.com/Common/Article.aspx?id=43694
At least the Raiders are winning somewhere.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:52 pm
22/31 over 70% completions by a rookie on a great deffense, WOW, the future looks great.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Terrapin,
Nail on the head.
Yet the pieces fit well in so far as chemistry with Fargas, Russel to Miller, Griffith, O’Neal, and what is left of the O-Line, and the Real Stealth, Madsen…
Guarded optimism? Oh hell yes! But I sure won’t be surprised to see us beat expectations….
May 6th, 2008 at 6:53 pm
LMN, if you go back to my quotes, I knew Darius was done. I knew he wasn’t going to make the roster.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:53 pm
Great Charer D? Please…
May 6th, 2008 at 6:54 pm
blah..Charger…ah who cares.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:55 pm
Oakglenn…
sorry, I recall wrong then… but still Adam is way better than Darius was when we signed him, but he would boost up our team as a backup and ST player, but its otopia
May 6th, 2008 at 6:55 pm
if not great, very good.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:55 pm
i care cause JR went 22/31 on them.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
those are good numbers for a rookie.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
LMN, let me answer that again, I might have been OK with taking a look at Darius, but I knew he was never going to make the roster. And when he was cut loose, again, it was the right decision. Archuleta is in the same position, playing on fumes.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
Its not just the fact that we look good on paper this year or that we have a very talented roster. Its all in the coaching this year. Its not Bugel, or Mike White or Callahan or Norv or Art Shell. I genuinely feel good about Kiffen as our Head Coach and its even greater with the backing of Knapp, Lofton, Rathman and Cable. What a freakin cast of coaches. Thats what makes me confident. We have a bunch of winners leading a team.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:58 pm
Lets not be blinded by the fact that the Chargers were already playoff bound when we played them so they weren’t trying their best. JR looked good but SD wasn’t playing to full capacity.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:58 pm
Darius was a really solid player when he was younger. He left it all out on the field. Literally. When we took a look at him he had nothing left.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:58 pm
i hate the chargers more than anyone, i live in SD, and i have to hear all thier crap, but still man they do have a very good deffense and JR did great against them.
May 6th, 2008 at 6:59 pm
Oakglenn - You can’t ever count someone out. Alot of people have counted out most of our signees due to injury or attitude ot whatever and now we’re ready to find out whether all of those guys are up to the task. Archuleta could be another of many who have supposedly lost a step. Thats the Raider way…they’re a bunch of misfits.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:01 pm
maybe, but still 70%, man i like JR.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
ya but archuleta lost more than a step, the guy cant cover, and cant read plays well thats why coach smith released him.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
if erneed a safety we should have drafted Barret from ASU.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:11 pm
Based on watching Kiffin with the WR core last season, I’m going to guess we only keep 5 WR’s.
Walker, Curry, Carter, Schilens and Chris McFoy.
Kiffin seems to like the bigger WR’s and I’m putting my stock into that. I think we’ll add 1 or 2 of the other guys to the practice squad and go from there.
Walker 6′3 215, Curry 6′2 210, Carter 6′3 200, Schilens 6′4 225 and McFoy 6′1 200.
Others to note:
Shields 6′1 195, James 5′11 185, Higgins 5′11 185, Holland 6′1 195, Watkins 6′2 190, Buchanon 6′3 190.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
I’m pretty confident JR will have a good year, he’s got alot of skills and a good makeup.
I’m confident in the coaching staff. Especially Cable, Rathman.
I’m confident McFadden will add a exciting element to the offense.
I’m fairly confident the Raiders will lead the league in penalities.
I’m confident the run defense will be soft.
I’m confident the Raiders will rush 4 and only 4.
I’m confident the Raiders will find new and exciting ways to lose.
I’m not confident 8 wins will secure Kiffins job.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
RO..
you’re maybe right, but he tackles! something i haven’t seen any raiders doing lately =)
Anyhoo there is no reason to talk about, it I just suggested it as a ‘thought spin’ him as a backup and a ST player…. its utopia, it will never happen.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Raider O - Yeah. And Walker lost a step, Gallery lost a step, Green lost a step, Harris lost a step, Joseph lost a step, Warren lost a step, Sapp lost a step, Edwards lost a step, Burgess lost a step, Thomas lost a step, Williams lost a step, Hartwell lost a step. One way or the other, someone lost something but we’re filled with people who have underachieved somehow. Archuleta isn’t any different.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
adam a. is not good in pass coverage.
next canidate please….
could branch be our back up….
every where i read he’s could be something special , he likes to splatter people , known to splatter running backs . i read he could be a steal… hmmm
but because oakland took him they say he was a reach !
May 6th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
JLH will make the roster, he is going to return punts.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:22 pm
more on archuleta….
watching him play alot of times he’s chasing the receiver after the catch was made or he got flat out burned reminds me of someone already on the roster…..
steward schwigert !
May 6th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
K2,
Love it…keep brining it…nice comic relief.
The penalties and new ways to lose are freaking true…
I remember back to 97-98 when the Chiefs were driving on us and Terry McDaniel let Rison get deep on him near the final play…My gf at the time asked “What the hell is he doing”…before Rison caught the TD, I said “Trying to find a way to lose”…
We did.
Just when you think we’ve found ever way to lose, something comes along and tucks it up!
May 6th, 2008 at 7:25 pm
Raider O - JLH returning punts isn’t exactly promising as proven last year. Just because a guy returned punts, doesn’t mean he was good at it.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:26 pm
Steward Schwigert? Thats a new one.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:26 pm
schwagert,IMO will be cut this season, he makes too much money for a back up, he is going to make 2.3 mil this year.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
well huff, he is all we have now at PR, unless you know of someone else?
May 6th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
koolkell…. ouch !
let’s take it one game at a time baby, one game at a time.
personally i see the glass more full than empty
May 6th, 2008 at 7:31 pm
carr and rhodes are gone, #33 is a KR, so that leaves DMAC and JLH,im sure you are not going you star back at PR so he can get cracked, that leaves JLH.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:31 pm
i din’t say stu in a good sense kiff already showed him he’s dead weight.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
About hope, fans and stuff…
Let me say this again, go back 1 year and 3 months, January 2007.
We were coming of an awful 2-14 season, we had no coach and very little to look forward to. I´m sure you have not forgotten how that felt, it was not long ago.
Well, it´s been a little over a year since then and the team has made major improvements in most areas and we´re not done yet. Think about it, we are on the right track, we know it and AD knows it.
Our performance next season should reflect it.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
Raider O - If we can find an Undrafted Carr for a KR and a new 4th round pick to replace him as a KR, I’m confident that we’ll find someone to replace JLH.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
i think we will atleast win 8, if you think about it we lost 3 games last year by a total of 7 points, win those 3 and we were 7-9.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
bob marley…..
best post of the evening and with that,
tune in tomarrow later nation !
May 6th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
i dont know man i kinda like JLH, i say give him one more shot and if he’s not better, well he can still play WR.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:38 pm
as a back up till he becomes a starter, if he does.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:38 pm
well guys..
i’m outta here, see ya =)
May 6th, 2008 at 7:44 pm
I haven’t seen anything about JLH that seperates him from the other WR’s. I could be wrong but thats what I see.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:48 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dj_ADC5_omE
Schweigerts one and only big hit. Why couldn’t we have seen more of this? I watched this happen live. The Coliseum was in an uproar.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:50 pm
no you are right Huff, he didnt do much last season, but kiffin said that was his fault,JLH has the speed to stretch deffenses and the guy can catch(im going with what he did in college, his senior year he had 82 catches).plus all are recievers didnt do much last year other than miller they all were sorry. part of the problem was the flip flopping of QBs.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
When the Raiders had Ronnie Lott, they always had him in the box.
I always liked Swiegert? I thought he was a heady player.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:53 pm
can you say one hit wonder.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:53 pm
When you’re scratching around for a QB, like the Raiders last year, How come Walter doesn’t get a shot, and why should he now?
May 6th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
Stu is a bum,…we no longer need our token white boy anymore,….cut that honky asap….the Raiders should have scheduled that 9er game on a saturday night, not a friday.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
his time has come, to go somewhere else and bum.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
you beat me to it Alameda.
May 6th, 2008 at 7:58 pm
Andy Walter shouldnt even be in the NFL,…you couch potatos think he looks awful on your tv sets?,..he looks worse from my seats in row 2….cut his sorry ass asap also….someone in here suggested Leftwich,..that sounds ok to me….but as I told you all already, Russell will take every snap this season, so dont waste any money or time worrying about backup qb`s.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
Racial epitaphs should not be a part of sports, especially Raider fans.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
The QBing last year was absolutely terrible. I don’t care who comes to JMs aid, he was absolutely terrible. A 69 passer rating? Sheezz. Culpepper was no better. He may have had a 78 passer rating but man did he screw up some games and the recovered fumbles didn’t factor into those ratings to my knowledge but it was a loss of downs nonetheless. The QBing last season was atrocious. And while I’m at it the LT and RG were terrible too - false starting and penalties out the ass.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
or epithets
May 6th, 2008 at 8:03 pm
we will be better this year for 2 reasons:
1st our coach learned from his rookie mistakes.
2nd our players can do 3 things that we were not able to do last year, stretch the field,throw the deep ball, and create more turnovers on deffense.
P.S i didnt say stop the run cause that remains to be seen. i hope we can, or atleast do better than last year.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:07 pm
teams are going to be scheming for our run offense, putting 7 and 8 man fronts and that will makes things easy for JR.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:07 pm
Kool,..what the heck you snivlin about tonight?…always something.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:08 pm
Last season:
1. Burgess was recovering from hernia surgery
2. Warren was underweight and less effective
3. Kelly injured
4. 270 lb Tyler Brayton saw significant time at DT
5. Starting DE Jay Richardson was only a rookie
6. Sands came into camp out of shape due to family problems
WE CAN NOT BE WORSE
May 6th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
JR going deep will be something the fans are going to get use to hearing.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
IMO….Archuleta was once a good player with the Rams as a Tampa 2 Safety where he could sit back, cover his area of the field and hit the guy coming with the ball.
But he can´t in a regular defense, he can´t cover the TE and does not have the range and speed to play centerfield. He´s not a fit and even Lovie cut him, he´s done.
And about Leftwich, if you think AW is a statue back there, Leftwich makes him look like Jeff Garcia.
Again, a bad fit, Kiffin likes to use moving pockets, he needs a QB that can roll out and move around, that´s why he played McCown and even Culpepper while burying AW on the bench.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
Bob, when you are right, you’re right.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
I liked Hartwell when he used to play, good pick up with nothing to lose but I just don´t see him staying healthy and making it. I would have liked Al Wilson instead but I´m sure a contender will pick him up later on, he´s smart to wait it out.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:16 pm
thats why kiffin waned Q Grey.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:18 pm
al wilson, i tought he was done with that nick injury
May 6th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
adam is done, and we dont nees anymore help in the safety position.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
Bob,..I disagree,..Hartwell will stay healthy and will be knocking dudes out in the middle of the field this season,…the year off healed him,..and hes dying to hit someone.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:23 pm
i hope you’re right.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:25 pm
Raider O
Yeah, Gray was a good fit but he wanted at least a chance to compete, not a mentor role. Al Wilson was cleared to play a few months ago.
Alameda
Definitely not endorsing Archuleta, but I do hope you´re right about Hartwell.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
Troll.
Or Just stupid?
AI…”Always Insipid”
Have at him K2.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:33 pm
Be right back,..have to look up the definition of insipid….hoping its a compliment.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:34 pm
Bob, if he wanted to compete why did he go to the texans, i cant understand that move, he was better off signing with raiders or packers.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:34 pm
damn…K2 got his comment removed….
Friggin fascist, communists, Neo-Liberals!
1st Amend you b@stards!
May 6th, 2008 at 8:35 pm
Bummer,..according to lowdown, Im lacking zest,..that sucks.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:35 pm
A.I. — Can’t write AI anymore — it’s too close to looking like Al.
While you’re in the dictionary, look-up “phony” and “poseur.”
May 6th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
Anytime AI…lol…
my dictionary and spell check, would die without them
May 6th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
I’m going to repost my own (special props/thanks to 408, Raidermight, and Tonio) post just cuz Jerry came out with multiple articles today and this is still relevant to the subject matter of this article and I spent a long time writing it:). Go Raiders!
JediRaider Says:
May 6th, 2008 at 9:28 am
We’re all spoiled. Whenver an article like this comes up, I think it’s important to objectively reflect on the situation.
Every team goes through rebuilding periods, we’ve been fortunate to simply “reload” for the past 30 years and remain fairly competitive year in and year out with a bad year here and there. 5 years of bad records doesn’t sum up what really happened.
In 2002 we had the oldest roster in the NFL. All of those guys basically retired right after our superbowl run or stayed one year too long and Gannon went down to injury in 03 and 04. When your entire team retires, you’re going to be in a bad situation no matter what though. Think about it: Wiz, Kennedy, Robbins, Gannon, Rice, Brown, Garner, Wheatley, Rod Woodson, Romo, Biekert, Upshaw, Adams, Parella, Armstrong, etc.
The second problem was Al trading Gruden and Bill Callahan turing out to be a crazy nut. Al traded Gruden because Gruden was going to leave anyway, but he did it knowing he could retain system continuity with Callahan, and he was right: the Raiders opened up that offense under Callahan and it was unstoppable that year. But when Gannon went down and the team derailed, Callahan went crazy and there was no choice but to fire him when he called the Raiders the dumbest team in America.
That was the point when the whole thing went haywire. We had west coast personnel at all of the skill positions when Norv brought in his “Vertical” offense which doesn’t work well with a weak armed QB, Old Recievers, undersized running backs, and an old line that worked in a timing system and we lost the winning tradition and leadership at the player AND coaching level simultaneously.
Should Al have let our roster get that old? Absolutely not to that extreme, but it did work and got us three straight AFC West Crowns and deep into the playoffs. Al just wants to win and usually did it best with trades, F.A.’s, and relclamation projects. This time around, we’re building a strong young team and we should have some continuity. Other than Kiffin, there’s not one coach since Gruden (Al’s biggest mistake was not paying him and treating him good) that I liked, but if we could have maintained continuity in coaching leadership (which is so important with the high turnover rate of players in the NFL) this rebuild would not have looked so ugly, but it would have taken just as long. You simply can’t have an entire team retire, replace the head coach 4 times, and expect things to magically work out. But during this time, the dead money from the cap has gone away, we’ve had multiple high draft picks, acquired our franchise QB, found a real offensive system, and starting acquiring system fits on the O-line.
Our D scheme is vanilla and just stinks, but if our new acquisitions pan out in the secondary, it might actually work exceptionally well because our offense is poised to put up some points which will take away the run from the opposing team and force them to play to our strength (pass D and now the pass rush because all of our starters are playing out of position but are natural pass rushers assuming Burgess, Warren, Kelly, Edwards).
If we do put up 24 plus points per game on average this year, we will win 10-12 games and go to the playoffs - All teams that scored 24+ points per game went to the playoffs except the Bungles, but that team is a REAL mess. This team, with McFadden, a Healthy Walker and some speed out of that third WR postion should be able to put up 7 more points per game without a problem against this schedule even if we run the same type of conversative offense because we have big time playmakers that can take it to the house in Walker and McFadden, and between Higgins, Shields, Schilens, and Carter, our 3rd WR will emerge and all have deep speed out of the slot. McCown and Culpepper were so bad last year that teams stacked against the run with 8 or 9 in the box and we still couldn’t throw the deep ball effectively because Porter and Curry have no deep speed. JR’s arm and mobility will allow us to exploit D’s with play action, McFadden will be a beast on draws, screens, circle routes, and we can run a highly effective no-huddle offense with multiple formations splitting McFadden out to the slot, wide, or under center (you better believe that’s coming baby!) to take advantage of mismatches against base D formations and short yardage packages. I’m a little concerned about the line, but Tom Cable is my new hero so if he thinks it’s set with the additions of Wade and Harris to Gallery and Carlisle in addition to the guys we have on the team that are still developing (McQ, Henderson, Grove, etc.) then I’m not going to lose sleep over it.
The NFL is less fun without a good Raider team - that’s why we get picked on - you can’t hate a team that loses all the time (unless the team is yours), so they go after the owner, the coaches, and to a lesser extent, the players. Last year we learned where we really stand, this offseason we flushed out the trash (LaMont, you’re next you fat lazy whiner) and acquired a whole lotta talent. We have turned the corner, this team is going to be exciting to watch, and will only get better - I’d lock in your seats now because next year they’ll be hard to come by.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
Alright this is ridiculous. I point out Alameda Insider’s racism and my post gets deleted while his post, #152, remains. What the fu*k is wrong with here.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
And the racial stuff on here is beyond belief, coming from long-time users of this forum.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
Cant do it Haze,..I make it a point never to open a book twice in the same day,..already did once lookin up insipid. Maybe tomorrow.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
ABP — they’re working backwards…
May 6th, 2008 at 8:38 pm
Wheres the racial stuff Hayes?
May 6th, 2008 at 8:39 pm
Maybe AI is Jerry. This blog gives him a chance to vent his secret racist agenda.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:39 pm
word
May 6th, 2008 at 8:40 pm
This time, or other times? As soon as it gets pointed-out, you start deflecting.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
Oh,..nice timimg,….speaking of noted racists,..hi Dakota.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
HD37…think Troll.
The long term users are hands off in such matters and scold the smart @sses who open their traps.
Then the pansy moderator removes the long term posters and allows these brainless luggage monkeys to keep posting racial diatribes without reprisal.
That and trolls is why the sight sucks…can’t wait for the next real thing to come along and put these hairy Russian girl parts out of business.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
Raider O
I think with us he was not gonna play unless Russell got injured, even if Russell struggled there is no point giving Gray time that can be used to develop Russell.
At Houston he´s got a good shot at the #2 job and is another Schaub injury or bad stretch away from playing, I´m assuming he thinks he´ll have no problem beating Rosenfels for the backup job or maybe there´s still a chance Rosenfels will be moved and they told him.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
Lowdown,..enough with that crap,..luggage monkeys??…leave black people out of your rants,..ok?
May 6th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
“site”…damn..been here too long.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
Please A.I. — Tell us all a story about you and all your professional friends? Stories that a few people actually may find out are true or not? Please drop some names for us. Then tell me where your rascist remarks and beliefs fit in the Raider Family? Keep burning bridges, dude.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
insipid=lacking taste or flavor
May 6th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
wow..deep reading…can’t believe you found me out..oh the pain, the agony of it all…
If you believe in something, you will find it wherever you want.
Try again, and this time, try to be convincing.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
Lowdown — way to throw fuel on that flame…
May 6th, 2008 at 8:47 pm
honestly Bob i thought the best fit for him was GB and after that the raiders, but never thought the texans,unless you are right and something is in the works for Rosenfels.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:47 pm
His post is still there, #152. These moderators are either lazy or racist themselves.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Oh,..Im a racist now Hayes?…since when? Lowdown,..I read your post 3 times,..its over my head dude,..dont understand it,..laymens terms please.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
What are the odds that the team Chris Henry has a tryout with is the Raiders?
http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10815640
May 6th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Albert,..chill out…dont you know its ok for people to use racist names against the evil white race?….so all good bro….Honky is an ok term,..dont you watch the Jeffersons?
May 6th, 2008 at 8:52 pm
Not Leftwich. He is horrible. Right now Walter is the best backup we have unless this kid Meyer surprises. I think we could probably get a low round draft choice for Walter, but first we would have to have the backup role secured. I really think Walter could be decent with a good team around him. He didn’t have anything resembling a fair chance in ‘06.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:52 pm
Alright Reverend Wright, you already tried to take down Obama, don’t destroy this blog too with your racist bullsh*t.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:52 pm
ok guys lets stop the racist talk, and talk football, maybe the guy didnt mean it in a racial way, maybe it was a bad choise of words. lets just drop it.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:53 pm
Hes going to Philly old buddy.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:53 pm
A.I — Is it really you? You haven’t been bragging enough — yet — so I’m not sure. Why are your comments any better than any other rascist terms used in here?
If you’re not the real A.I., you sure seem to share a lot.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:54 pm
ok he is raceist, i didnt see post #202.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:54 pm
Bad choice of words, please. This is not the first time he has come in here spouting off with his racist epitaphs.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:54 pm
Damn,..you guys really up in arms over the word “honky”?…George Jefferson uses it like 5 times a show…gets major laughs,..whats your problem?
May 6th, 2008 at 8:55 pm
Or epithets: Kevn
May 6th, 2008 at 8:57 pm
I will continue to use the word honky,…I call it to my other white friends,..just like some blacks call each other the N word….you guys need to lighten up.
May 6th, 2008 at 8:58 pm
fake AI blockade, please.
As for the Raiders, which sprinter will win a Gold Medal in the Olympics?
May 6th, 2008 at 8:59 pm
If Hartwell can stay healthy this is a great pick up for us. We still need that DT / De to make the defense complete.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:00 pm
#213 — Jano
May 6th, 2008 at 9:01 pm
Beautiful!
May 6th, 2008 at 9:01 pm
I still say some of our second day draft picks will dominate this event:
http://cache.eb.com/eb/image?id=95537&rendTypeId=4
May 6th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Uh oh,..Im not the real Alameda Insider?…hmmm,…sorry,..wrong,..and I will be on the island this saturday, at HQ, for the mini.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
AI,maybe you do use that word with your friends and they think its funny, you used here and people got insulted so why keep saying it, use it aroud your friends and dont here because some people got insulted.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Somehow see William Joseph as being counted on to really produce…
Nothing in his past tells me he is better than reported, but somehow both he and Sands are being counted on to be produce better than before.
Joseph can also play DE….this could be why All is Quiet on the DT front
May 6th, 2008 at 9:04 pm
im not trying to tell you what to do, just a thought.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:06 pm
Jeez, call Indiana already.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:07 pm
Hillary is finished.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:07 pm
Fine Raider O,…gee whiz though,..you upset at the word honky????????????…has society robbed us all of all our ways of speaking?…maybe you all are all wrapped up in being politically correct,..not me,…Im still an individual,..not robots like you all…hey can I say “dirty white boy”?…like that Foreigner song?
May 6th, 2008 at 9:08 pm
some people are open and ok with some words and others are not. respect others and they will respect you, plus if this turns into a race war of words we all loose, cause everyone is going to get insulted.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:09 pm
hate ‘em both but love watching her have a bad day! Friggin voice sounds like a shovel over broken glass while suffering from a hangover..
May 6th, 2008 at 9:09 pm
The Democrats are finished if they can’t win this election.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:09 pm
me personaly no, im not upset, but others were.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:09 pm
Lowdown,
A friend of mine just got back from Bejing a couple of weeks ago, he said it was the Bomb.
We were stationed together in Japan in the 80’s, we’d been to Honk Kong and Taipei, but never the mainland. But he says Beijing’s archeticture? women, nightlife everything was really nice almost Tokyo like.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:10 pm
Dakota,..Im with you,..Im all for Barrack Osama,…he is like JFK,…and Im hoping he ends up….
May 6th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
Feel free to call me a honky,..I wont be upset.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:12 pm
K2…love Tokyo! Akasaka is the bomb!
BJ is a trip..there are better cities, but this place is just sick, bars, nightlife, you name it…and not just the regular 20 year old “I’m at a bar and drunk stuff”…I mean classy, upscale, hole in the wall stuff too…
and the ladies are peeling off panties Akasaka style!
Bastard…I was stationed in Georgia!!! LOL!
May 6th, 2008 at 9:13 pm
Koolkell,..get yourself a 3 dollar hooker,..one of those,..”me love you long time” Chinks bro.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:15 pm
Now we have AI calling Barrack Obama a terrorist and calling for his assassination. I don’t know what race you are AI, but I guess it doesn’t matter because you are just an outright scumbag. You transcend race with your degeneracy.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
http://www.80stees.com/images/products/Jeffersons_Honky-Tee-Shirt.jpg
May 6th, 2008 at 9:17 pm
Did I say Osama?…my bad,..typo,..and please tell me where I wanted him assasinated…geez dude,.maybe thats what your thinking,..not me.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:17 pm
K2…Here is like the Wild West and NewYork at the turn of the 1900s
Tokyo is far ahead of this joint…that being said, Tokyo is more sophisticated and this joint more adventuresome…
May 6th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
By the way, not that it matters to any of you narrow minded weirdos,…but I like Barrack Hussein Obama,..and will vote for him.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
Vote McCain
http://www.veoh.com/videos/v261977wHmyXD8A?c=JohnMcCain
May 6th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
Night crew,..keep it real.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
AI, are you one of those inbred crackers who thinks Obama is a Muslim?
May 6th, 2008 at 9:26 pm
Dakota -
Props for your boy getting his 1st MVP. Now beat the effing Jazz, I hate those bastards. Ther ain’t no Jazz in Utah!
A.I. -
Is it ok to say Honky Tonk? I have never heard of anyone ever being offended by that word. I guess I better not mention the crackers I had on my soup earlier…
May 6th, 2008 at 9:26 pm
I am not religeous Cole,..and dont care what religion he or anyone else is,…Im not a Christian,…Im not down with Jesus or any other spiritual fraud.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:26 pm
ok, maybe will talk football later,so later.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
I didn’t ask you about your religion AI. I just wanted to know if you are stupid as you sound.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:28 pm
Hey Cole,..no racist names like Cracker in here please,..I already offended a few in here for saying honky…alot of sensative types in here,.so,..take it easy.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
Bunch of crackers:
http://www.smilinggoat.com/crackers/cracker_g9.jpg
May 6th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
well I’m outta here guys. Gotta go to hq on the island and pick up my rattions aka norcos. stay loose you uptight mofos!
May 6th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
Hmmm,..coming from a guy whos using a name of a clinically insane person like cole ford,..maybe you should look in the mirrow cole.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
Yep, we used to hang out in Mugen’s in Akasaka and The Soul Embassy in Ropongi. Oh yeah. Enjoy. Out.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:30 pm
go f*ck yourself
May 6th, 2008 at 9:30 pm
Those fruity bastards are so mean to those tigers. It it it drove me over the edge!
May 6th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Hey!!,..another me popped in here!!!!….thanks!!!..bet you guys never had that happen to you!!!!
May 6th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
A’s win
May 6th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Thanks Dogg. Maybe Beard will win it next year.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
have a good one kk
May 6th, 2008 at 9:32 pm
That makes absolutely no sense AI.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:32 pm
Dang Albert,..why ya mad?…something bothering you?…you know where the door is.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:32 pm
not likely with the Beard but I appreciate the kind words. Chris Paul will get it next year, even if he has a mediocre year…
May 6th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Oh my god! Someone hijacked my name. I can’t believe it. This is an outrage!
May 6th, 2008 at 9:34 pm
LOL … at post 152 … AI don’t you know the NFL stats … teams that have more whites on the roster have a better winning record.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:34 pm
Im not here to make sense cole,..havent figured that out yet?….I will help you out if you need things spelled out for you.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:34 pm
Nothing is bothering me. I am just having fun.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
99,..I dont care,..I hate white people…dont want any on my team.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
I’m off to hq on the island once and for all you guys.m my last 3 norcos are kicking in and I still have to drrive to the island. I’m out suckers. If you watch Cops tonight I’m the guy with the stabler jersey on
May 6th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Im out,..waaay past my beddie by time,..but just like my bumper sticker says on my Caddie,..Black is beautiful!!!
May 6th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Had to share this:
http://newmedia.funnyjunk.com/pictures/is-america-ready-for-the-hillary-nut-cracker.jpg
May 6th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
test…A.I. is a cock sucker
May 6th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Good night “colored boy”.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
AI
You may want to re-think the whole 3 Norcos and getting behind the wheel bro. Especially considering you’ve probably been drinking the vino too. Whatever it is, it can wait. Seriously.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
Night Madden,..thanks for using my name again,..flattery is lovely!!!
May 6th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
lol … AI don’t you want to win.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
A lame duh, maybe you should do all those norcos at once and OD. that would be killer
May 6th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
test…not that there’s anything wrong with that
May 6th, 2008 at 9:41 pm
Dont worry dogg,…thats just Madden using my name while im in here,..hes silly…catch ya later.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:41 pm
cool
May 6th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
Take them all at once Dakota?…now why would I do that?
May 6th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
I’m out too, everyone have a good night.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
what??
May 6th, 2008 at 9:44 pm
Draft Fili!
Night all…even you crazy fockers.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
Wow. There has been some interesting literature tonight.
May 6th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
The A’s won? Who cares…4,236 games to go in the baseball season. At least…thats what it seems like. When it comes to baseball, its better to just wait until the playoffs to catch some good games. Everything else is too repetitive.
I am a Giants fan and I only follow along with KNBR in the morning. Barry Zito needs to take a hike after he pays half of his salary back to the Giants.
May 6th, 2008 at 10:26 pm
Actually Huff, I offered to sell Zito his mojo back for $2mm. He left it in Oakland and I have it at my house!!
May 6th, 2008 at 10:29 pm
so the stategy is becoming clearer,…
Draft still is AD’s science project for fresh new minds and stats to mold to the Raider way,…not neccesary to address needs when he can bring in a dozen wash ups off their “potential” panning for one of em to revitalize and help this team,… I hope he gets it right, because I want us to just dominate and prove the haters wrong. moreso now than he has in previous rolls of the dice, please!, Mr. Davis… bring in some DL monster to give us the missing piece we all want, no, need……..
It is crucial to set a new tone for the next generation,… we must seize strength to regain the fear of every team in this league.
May 6th, 2008 at 10:30 pm
Go Raiders!!!
May 6th, 2008 at 10:38 pm
We’d gotta take a look at Arculeta. The guy is starter material. Let him compete and see what he can do this pre-season.
May 6th, 2008 at 10:42 pm
Oaktown I’m fine with bringing him in, but I am 99% sure Archuleta is out of gas.
May 6th, 2008 at 10:44 pm
DMC is better than Reggie Bush. The ZBS will get DMC at least 1000 yards rushing this season. The holes are gonna be huge letting DMC burst outside. Reggie Bush was a product of USC hype. DMC is the real deal.
May 6th, 2008 at 10:45 pm
Archuleta is still young for a safety. Let’s give him a look. Branch will not contribute right away cause he’s being converted to the position.
May 6th, 2008 at 10:47 pm
I really feel this season is a lifeline to the destiny and ultimate ability of this organization to get back on track. I read of so many people on the fence ready to jump ship and part of the nation says f* them, but thats not the way we shud be. We need to gravitate as a fanbase and support our team vocally. We need to be heard louder and more united, not let this veil of secrecy be accepted. we need to barrage our feelings to alameda as passionately as I am sure Al still feels when he is wondering which version of the sheild to wear everyday. I love this team and want us to be a force to be reckoned with. It starts with us, the fans,… Al Davis is the finger on the button, lets ask him to get us some help on the d-line… He wants to win worse than single one of us… i am sure of that,….
Go Raiders
May 6th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
Oakglenn I hope u feel me…
May 6th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
I agreed with a poster saying NOT to bring DMC slowly. If the kid wins the starting job then so be it against Fargas. DMC is such a weapon that you try to use him on every down. There will be sellouts once the Raiders win regularly at home like the old days.
May 6th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
Tonio and Huff, I just read your earlier posts, and I SAY WAIT TILL YOU HIT 70!!!!!
Go RAIDERRRRS!
May 6th, 2008 at 10:50 pm
Oakglenn i wish I had ur e-mail so i cud talk to u direct,… im not asking, but typing takes alot out of good talk about our team.
May 6th, 2008 at 10:52 pm
linebackers alone will not stop the run…
May 6th, 2008 at 10:58 pm
I believe Sands will step up this season. We’d gotta bring in a few DTs to look at this pre-season.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:03 pm
Darkhorse, anytime. Actually I’m not hard to find if you know where to look.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:05 pm
i don’t.. i cant spent as much time time on this blog to know
May 6th, 2008 at 11:21 pm
Jerry,
You bring up a good point in that this preseason will actually be very important. We have a lot of new guys. The receivers and JRuss paticularly need time to gel, but on the other hand all of our receivers have had injury issues. It wll be interesting to see how Kiff plays it.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:27 pm
“We need to be heard louder and more united, not let this veil of secrecy be accepted. we need to barrage our feelings to alameda as passionately as I am sure Al still feels when he is wondering which version of the sheild to wear everyday. I love this team and want us to be a force to be reckoned with. It starts with us, the fans,… Al Davis is the finger on the button, lets ask him to get us some help on the d-line…”
Well spoken Darkhorse.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:27 pm
Its interesting that all of a sudden LT wants to retire since they no longer have ONeal. LT has been crying about that every chance he gets. He know that he is going to take a physical beating.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:29 pm
KoolKell, #125:
Good post. You’re right on about penalties (even if not deserving, nfl officials will find them or invent them). Soft on the run defense…that’s a no brainer. And, rushing 4 and only 4…that’s the most GLARING TRUTH OF ALL. (It seems we’re the most predictable team on defense. We can’t blitz to save the world. What really pisses me off is when we have them on a 3rd and long and we don’t even rush the four. A defensive end or both will also drop back and we have two or three guys rushing. The
QB has all day and finds the open receiver for the first down.)
You missed one other confidence issue and that is: “You’re fairly sure that if Seabass is in a position to win the game with a field goal, he either shanks it or misses it completely. He only makes field goals when nothing is on the line.” I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. If we want Seabass to make a field goal, we need someone waving a volka bottle in the end zone when he lines up to kick.
All in all…this will be a good year. Maybe even for Seabass…he’s so over due.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:29 pm
Oakglenn,
Zito had to have been taking steroids. Thats the only logical explanaion.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:30 pm
i just hear the trumpets everyday and feel the goosebumps run past my arms to the back of my neck when i consider how dominant we cud be with a bookend to our d-line and some roleplayers that are hungry and can tackle. we need to plug some true depth, and jason taylor for a 1st is preposterous, if the Tuna n Mr. Davis cud work out a wink wink … but a first rounder, no…. maybe in 2020,…lol
May 6th, 2008 at 11:36 pm
Tay: Chargers are goin down without O’Neal. Of course it still won’t matter to us if we don’t do something about the D-Line before the season starts.
Still, whatever kind of Raider fan you are, you gotta be psyched about Russell & McFadden in the backfield, and the potential for big plays in the secondary. Al had picked up some young home run hitters.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
#1 DE needed (better than Burgess). Period.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:40 pm
ok. hers the real deal. Mr. Davis doesnt like to blitz often, he wants pressure from the front four right? so why not creat chaos from that d-line? is he workin behind the scenes for a move we will salivate over? we cant know. but we can pester the livin silver n black outta him to get it done. Jason Taylor is a desperate reach for an answer to an inconclusive question. i.e. I think we need to find someone younger. Jason Taylor is just a bandaid to a severed head. if we get him we will be addressing this all over again when he breaks down.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:42 pm
if it’s obvious to us, it’s obvious to Al and he’s on it if he can. It may be all about convincing someone to want to play in Oakland. That’s where all this offseason BS really hurts.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:43 pm
KoolKell, post #156:
I totally agree with you. It’s total crap and not necessary. Last I remember, the snake, howie, rich, etc etc were white boys and they sure weren’t tokens. Ya, cut the racial crap…we don’t need it on a Raiders site.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:55 pm
I have prolly said too much, but darnit, I think we need to reassess the possibilities instead of dreaming. we need to be sadistically fearful instead of overly optimistic. we need to shiver in the crows nest at the teams coming our way and be realistic. we are gonna have to scrap and claw for wins. We are gonna have to earn respectability. We all need to give our input to what we as a fanbase call our team. It might be biased and wud take alot of time to comb through for coherent and conducive ideas, but dammit we must.
We need to look at the future with more ferocity than we look at the past. We have the numbers and the best man in football. AD will listen to our ideas,… he spends more time reading criticism than he does compliments. so voice with a strong voice and bring this team back to being the utter fear of the league.
May 6th, 2008 at 11:55 pm
@ 114:
Yeah they are!
Plus that one pass late in the game (32 yd to Porter in front of Cromartie) reminded me of the kind of able-gunslinger ability that America’s former and possibly future NFL poster-boy Brett Favre brought to the table.
Confidence + ability = win!
May 6th, 2008 at 11:56 pm
if i am wrong then come at me full force.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:15 am
o.k. how about this idea as radical… a petition….
May 7th, 2008 at 12:16 am
i don’t have the website to experience th amount of traffic, but for real… lets petition…
May 7th, 2008 at 12:16 am
one of you guys or girls cud.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:16 am
Good night everybody…have a good one and a better tomorrow. We’re another day closer to September 8, 2008, and the butt-kicking of Shana-rat and his Donkeys on national TV on a Monday nite, no less. What a day to remember, we will be talking about it for years to come. Just the thought of it brings chills to the back of my neck. WOW.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:19 am
Since I’m not banned from posting anymore, I’ve been wanting to ask my fellow fans if they knew a site or place where you could buy 8×10 size team roster photos. My 10-year-old son gets a kick out of looking at the photos and trying to name all the players so I decided to try and eventually get every team photo.
Right now we only have 2006 and 2007 team pictures that we were able to get with Raiders Rewards program, but I’m having trouble tracking down more. eBay has one now and then, but it’s real hit and miss. If anyone has any ideas or spots to check, I’d really appreciate it.
Go Raiders and it’s great to be back among my fellow fans.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:24 am
i hope i dont get banned for expressing my opinion
May 7th, 2008 at 12:25 am
Wolverine did you try the Alameda marketing dept ?
May 7th, 2008 at 12:28 am
While I was typing post 319 a Wagner commercial started and they used the Raider theme Autumn Wind, anybody seen this yet ? It was during NFL live ( I DV-R ) that program so I was able to rewind..
May 7th, 2008 at 12:33 am
Mistabrown,
I didn’t even think of trying them since they were old team photos. Do you think it’s a good place to try? A lot of times since I’m not a PSL holder anymore they don’t get back to me. Though the OFMA never did either so I don’t know if that matters or not. (-;
Is there a general email for the marketing dept?
Being out here in Michigan now after years in California I’m trying to do anything I can to get my boy to like the Raiders instead of the damn Lions and Packers. It’s tough battle as he gets harrassed anytime he wears Raiders stuff to school.
Thanks again for the quick post about my question. I really appreciate it.
Go Raiders.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:37 am
Darkhorse, it wasn’t a matter of expressing my opinion. One night I just got fed up with “He who shall not be named” and went at him for stealing others names to post.
For whatever reason, the next day I tried to post and it just wouldn’t work. I tried day after day and nothing. Now about a month and a half later I tried today and finally I’m back on. The worst part is I was never even told why I got banned.
And “He who shall not be named” was posting the entire time I was banned. It just makes you wonder exactly what’s going on sometimes that this can continue to go on.
Go Raiders.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:41 am
Heres a good place to start
Courtney Jeffries
Season Ticket Service Manager
(510) 864-5001, ext. 3232
cjeffries@raiders.com
or call
864-5000
May 7th, 2008 at 1:09 am
yeh i read u got mixed
May 7th, 2008 at 1:10 am
i am pretty good at discerning the lies between th reg. posts
May 7th, 2008 at 1:10 am
it has happened with several peoples
May 7th, 2008 at 1:11 am
most times i read th text before i even look at the poster
May 7th, 2008 at 1:12 am
i know the intentions of those who mean well
May 7th, 2008 at 1:13 am
i am not drunk on the koolaid but i know that we have a voice louder than people expect.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:15 am
how many people blog half a mill on th bengals or the chiefs
May 7th, 2008 at 1:37 am
# Oakglenn Says:
May 6th, 2008 at 10:23 pm
All the Davis haters, we could have Jerry Jones as our owner! When was the last playoff game they won??? 1994???
………….
Try 1996, and it was a Super Bowl.
Jerry Jones has won 3 Super Bowls since we’ve won our last. And, if it wasn’t for Jon Gruden, 1994 would actually be the year that we won our last playoff game.
Oakglenn, this is one of those moments where we let our emotions get in the way of common sense. Take a breather and proof read before hitting submit. We talked about this.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:11 am
Thanks Mistabrown. I really appreciate it. Fingers crossed she can point me in the right direction and make my son’s day.
Go Raiders.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:16 am
I found this interesting. On eBay someone is selling the playbooks from the 1984 LA Raiders. Never seen such a thing and I’m surprised they are able to do it. It won’t let me post the direct link, but here’s the eBay item number: 280223635922.
Kind of crazy and I’d love to be able to take a look at it, but I’m not made of money and it looks like they want a lot of money for it.
Go Raiders.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:35 am
I WOULD BET IT WAS TOM WALSH SELLING THE PLAYBOOKS ON EBAY WOLVERINE. YOU DID GET TO SEE THEM WHEN HE TRIED TO RUN THEM 2 YEARS AGO THEY WERE NOT PRETTY!!!!!
May 7th, 2008 at 3:42 am
Oakglenn Says:
May 6th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
tomlinson is beginning to leak oil.
Yeah you were also insightfull enough to point that out about 3 months ago. LT seemed like he was in a Hell last year with all the crying and emotional turmoil, then he got hurt…….looks like you were right on.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:31 am
why bother signing hartwell, ryan is only gonna cut him b4 opener!!!
look at the past history , rashad moore, hunltey,tollefson etc !!!
any of the good run guys , any of the good “pass rushers” we had on roster thru preseasonn WILL & HAVE BEEN CUT !!!!! subsequentially since we’ve had the worst RUN D & PASS RUSH TOTALS IN AFC WEST !!
so why will this year be any different??? WELL IT WONT !! it wont get any better till ryan is removed!!!
YOU PEOPLE dont even realize that there is no “method-system- or scheme ” to this teams run d , or pass rush !!! OUR UNDERSIZED END BURGESS, IS PLAYING IN A ROLE THAT DIRECTLY CONFLICTS WITH THE OTHER 3 GUYS NEXT TO HIM ON LINE!!! he goes outside shoulder of te , which leaves a 2-3 GAP HOLE that the SDT & MLBR’ cant fill !!! no one can floursih here on def !!!
what more do you wanna see !!! and some of you wanted long or dorsey here ???!!! what r u crazy man!!!
give him more talent to PLUNDER!!!!
you all better hope that the offense gets 24+ point a game !!!
that is what we need to win !!!!
May 7th, 2008 at 5:32 am
where’s Rob Ryan’s Mullet when you need him?
May 7th, 2008 at 5:53 am
All I want for Christmas is the 32nd pick in next years draft! Al Davis is the MAN! This years draft and free agents are the work of THE MASTER! Anyone who can’t see the freight train coming down the tracks is stuck like the deer in the headlights. It only took two years but Davis had a plan and now he’s about to take the rest of the NFL back to school. Davis is going to force teams to play to our strengths. For instance, who has the best running attack in the NFL? The Raiders, that’s who. Who hits the hole fastest in the NFL? Fargus that’s who. Who ran a 4.27 40? McFadden, that’s who. Let’s not even get started about Bush, who is a secret weapon all by himself. The line, don’t worry about the line. Kiffin had these guys blocking at the number 6 level in the league with Rhodes and Jordan running as part time backs. Rhodes and Jordan better than ok, they are good. But without either of them together being able to make one full time back last year, Fargus got burned off quickly, because the other teams knew we only had one option. Without the other teams being able to keep pace with us on the ground, they will be forced to pass. Oh yea, who has the best pass defense in the land? We do, we do! One time Hall actually was clocked running a 4.17 40. In case anyone doesn’t know how fast that is, over the years, they have handed out lots and lots of little pieces of gold tied to ribbons for running slower than that. Ok so a more football related example would be, Deion Sanders would look slow in the same backfield as this guy. Oh, did I forget to mention the guy on the other side. Asomugha is just a top ten shut down guy. The defense is coming along great this year. The talking heads have run out of reasons to complain and are reduced to commenting, “How come they picked a running back number for, they looked good there?” Bo Jackson came one time in all of NFL history. Remember, he made all the other teams look like high school players trying to catch the Pro guy! He was head and shoulders above the rest. If McFadden has any moves to go along with that 4.27 speed…Fargus and Bush are also going to have very good years. Oh yea, did I forget to mention the new number one pick in the nation Quarterback we picked up last year? The one who has the skills and now the tools. I bet he can’t wait for the first time the other team blitzes, or the first time they bring 8 to stop the run. Did I mention our new All-Pro receiver and his new 4.3 buddies? This is truly a work of THE MASTER. Al Davis is the MAN! All I want for Christmas is the 32nd Pick in next years draft!
May 7th, 2008 at 6:07 am
LOL! Archuleta LOL! Did you guys see Marion Barber run over Archuleta and that CB last year in Chicago, if he can hit why did the skins and bears eject him? Check out this picture:
http://cowboys.beloblog.com/archives/MB3_Crushing_Archuleta.jpg
LOL! LOL!
May 7th, 2008 at 6:45 am
Why is ABP so concerned about racism? isn’t the one who said those things about mexicans?
May 7th, 2008 at 6:48 am
I happened to be bored last night, so I watched replays of various games from last year,(Minn, Green Bay, Jacksonville, Indy),….with the notable exception of Indy, our run defense was beyond pathetic.Since we lost both Clemmons and Sapp, one could argue that our d-line has gotten worse…we need to sign Grady Jackson. Period.
May 7th, 2008 at 7:11 am
SKA,
Clemmons was an edge pass rusher, and sapp was a pass rush first 3 tech. Not that we have a good d-line…that remains to be seen, but we will be improved. A healthy Kelly staying and perfecting the “3″. A mentally healthy Sands occupying blockers, with Warren and Joseph both former 1st round picks rotating in….along with a contract year motivated Burgess on one side and an improved Richardson as well as Kalimba Edwards…we might surprise some people…I hope.
May 7th, 2008 at 7:37 am
keep this in mind…
other teams snapped up our castoffs pretty quickly…
i think we’re a lot better than many think…
raider on, nation.
May 7th, 2008 at 7:43 am
MR says:
Jerry Jones has won 3 Super Bowls since we’ve won our last. And, if it wasn’t for Jon Gruden, 1994 would actually be the year that we won our last playoff game.
—————————————————–
You say Dallas has won 3 since we won our last like there is some great margin between their # of SB’s and the Raiders. Try 2 more. 5 SB’s to 3 SB’s. And how can you take away the Gruden years as if they didn’t occur? Why? Because those years were successful, that’s why. And because your nothing more than a major Raider-hater posing as a fan. The last year that the Raiders won a playoff game was 2002. How any supposed Raider fan can say forget/overlook the good and goes directly to the bad is beyond me. If it wasn’t for Gruden. Who do you think hired Gruden? Who do think got Gruden the players he wanted and needed to be successful? Just because Oakglenn got the Dallas playoff year wrong doesn’t change his good point, to which no insightful or truthful response was made.
May 7th, 2008 at 7:44 am
The other thing about Ed Hartwell is that he would give us the ability to switch to a 3:4 on some plays. One of the limitations with last season’s roster was that we lacked a second MLB. Now we have much more flexibility, for example:
3 (Richardson, Sands, Kelly) and 4 (Howard, Hartwell, Morrison, Burgess).
Or
3 (Warren, Sands, Joseph) and 4 (Howard, Hartwell, Morrison, Kelly)
Or
3 (Richardson, Sands, Kelly) and 4 (Howard, Hartwell, Morrison, Edwards).
Hartwell gives us much more options - if he stays fit.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:06 am
See Big Al, and I’m talking to you not him, you’re exactly right.
He doesn’t answer the statement he just bashes. And he spews the most spurious logic of all time. “If it wasn’t for….” how absolutley pathetic. If it wasn’t for the sun shining, it would be night every day. ??????? What the hell does that mean? If the queen had a package, she’d be king!! That is why you never answer that moron. He consistently makes no sense.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:13 am
Plus it’s the definition of cowardice to take swipes of someone behind their back.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:24 am
Today is the anniversary of the U.S. District Court ruling allowing the Raiders to move to Los Angeles,
May 7, 1982.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:26 am
morning Raidernation.
Two more days and we get to see Run DMAC and MB wearing the silver and black side by side.
Keep on keepin on…
May 7th, 2008 at 8:44 am
i want to be helpful…
i think i can clear this up…
if you take out all of the winning seasons the raiders ever had… they would never have a record better than .500…
there ya go…
i knew my degree would come in handy one day…
May 7th, 2008 at 8:48 am
Oakglenn says:
See Big Al, and I’m talking to you not him, you’re exactly right.
He doesn’t answer the statement he just bashes. And he spews the most spurious logic of all time. “If it wasn’t for….” how absolutley pathetic. If it wasn’t for the sun shining, it would be night every day. ??????? What the hell does that mean? If the queen had a package, she’d be king!! That is why you never answer that moron. He consistently makes no sense.
————————————————
Exactly. I couldn’t agree more. The Raider Hatred within this guy/gal is pathetic. This hater looks for issues/problems in a lame attempt to beat the Raiders down. And if he can’t find something negative then he’ll just make the crap up and try to pass it off as truth. Stay strong Oakglenn and keep these Raider-haters on the run. Keep the faith, pride and poise because we will be back on the very top and the haters will just keep on doing what they do best, right MR? Raider Hating.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:57 am
It will be interesting how last years Practice Squad members compete against the rookies. In particular, I will be looking for the progress of Jesse Boone, Jonathon Holland, Jonathon Palmer and Seth Wand.
I think Boone and Adam Speiker have a chance to oust Jake Grove.
Holland has the requisite speed and size, but has he learnt enough to compete with the rookies and McFoy, James and Buchanon for a spot behind Walker, Carter, Curry and Higgins?
Palmer is big enough (6-5 335lbs) and is highly regarded but he needs to push Henderson, McQuistan for spots behind Harris and Green.
Seth Wand is even taller (6-7 330lbs) but this is his last chance. He is the best ‘off-the-bus’ tackle we have - what is he like on the pitch?
May 7th, 2008 at 9:00 am
I think Bush is gonna be a beast!!! and I’m pulling for Curry to have a better year!
May 7th, 2008 at 9:03 am
I liked hartwell a few years ago, minus the injury. I would have prefered Takeo Spikes at LB!
May 7th, 2008 at 9:07 am
408,
I think Curry is vulnerable. Walker and Carter are locks. Higgins should be. That leaves two, maybe three spots open…and Curry faces some real competition. Shields and Schilens are expected to be serious roster options. We also have Holland and McFoy from last season - I think Kiff really likes McFoy. Add in two last-chance guys in Buchanon, Watkins and Drisan James.
If Curry starts camp as badly as he played last season - especially all the drops - he might not be around in September. We have the best depth at WR for the last five years.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:12 am
If Curry gets the slot spot his stat will improve, IMO
May 7th, 2008 at 9:18 am
The judge has allowed Chris Henry to go visit a team,do you think it’s the Raiders if you go PFT. Everybody is think it’s either the Cowboys Raiders or Eagles. If they had the chance do you the Raiders would give him a shot?
May 7th, 2008 at 9:18 am
The judge has allowed Chris Henry to go visit a team,do you think it’s the Raiders if you go PFT. Everybody is think it’s either the Cowboys Raiders or Eagles. If they had the chance do you the Raiders would give him a shot?
May 7th, 2008 at 9:22 am
Why would anyone sign a player that will soon be suspended for at least 1 year by the NFL? Chris Henry is a waste of oxygen.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:24 am
Curry has lead in receptions for the last 2 seasons garuantee he will still be come september. Carter has shown potential but is in no way a lock. Higgins has hardly caught a pass. WRs are not lookin good. the general team is im ot doubting that and we will get by with out WR but they are not the best in the last 5 years
May 7th, 2008 at 9:24 am
Henry would be a good addition to the competition if we could pull’em off… another… win win situation … if he worked… or cuttem without losing much. He’s definitely got talent.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:25 am
Dakota don’t you think if the league was going to suspended him they would have done it already?
May 7th, 2008 at 9:27 am
I have tried to post the url, but no luck, so i paste it here, its quite funny =)
_________________________________________________
Raiders determined not to let McFadden interfere with 2009 draft plans
McFadden will NOT get in the way of a top 2009 pick
OAKLAND, CA — Oakland Raiders coach Lane Kiffin told reporters today that first-round draft choice Darren McFadden will not be allowed to ruin the team’s future plans by having a breakout rookie season, quieting concerns from many in Raider Nation.
McFadden, the fourth overall pick in last week’s draft, had been expected by many experts to have an immediate impact on the team’s fortunes, perhaps even helping the team to a playoff berth. But Kiffin said the team has big plans in the 2009 draft, and the front office has vowed not to let McFadden interfere.
In order to ensure that McFadden will have minimal impact in the upcoming season, the Raiders plan to deploy him in much the same way the New Orleans Saints have employed running back Reggie Bush, as opposed to the way the Minnesota Vikings used rookie running back Adrian Peterson last season. Peterson had over 1,300 yards and scored thirteen touchdowns as a rookie, racking up 296 yards against the San Diego Chargers, an NFL single-game record. In two seasons, Bush has just over 1,100 yards rushing and only 11 career touchdowns.
“We definitely want Darren to be more like Bush than Peterson,” said Kiffin. “About 500 yards rushing, catch a few passes, score a few touchdowns. We definitely don’t want him making us any better. We want him to have a minimal impact on our season.”
McFadden said he was frustrated by the team’s plans, but that he understands and is resigned to his role.
“The only way to stop me is to take me out of the game plans,” he said. “Better to keep me on the sidelines and we go 3-13 than have me run for a whole bunch of yards and just miss the playoffs. Look what happened to the Vikings last season. Peterson set them back years. I don’t know, maybe I’ll hold out for a while, just to make sure I don’t mess things up.”
Kiffin said he expects next season’s crop of NFL prospects to be “pretty freakin’ sweet”. He especially has his eye on Florida’s Tim Tebow.
“Have you seen that guy?” Kiffin asked. “He’s going to be a lot better than JaMarcus Russell, who’s turned into a total fat ass. By 2010 or so, the Raiders are going to be a great team. Al Davis said he wouldn’t fire me before then, and I totally believe him.”
May 7th, 2008 at 9:27 am
Scottish… Nothing would please me more than if JLH steps up and we get some production out of him. Im just sayin Curry was Tim Browns guy and Im a big Timmy guy.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:29 am
i don’t think Curry or Higgins will make the team…
May 7th, 2008 at 9:29 am
^^^ not laughing…
May 7th, 2008 at 9:30 am
Take Henry i jua want to win he would be cheap and would start alongside Walker. Sorted
May 7th, 2008 at 9:31 am
Curry not making the team??? are you kidding??? He did have an off season last year.. .but keep in mind 3 different qbs… etc… Curry is money up the middle… between him and Miller.. .the middle passes will be dominated for sure… Curry’s a lock imo ( unless the injury bug bites again ).
May 7th, 2008 at 9:33 am
Curry has been a loyal player who has continued to save our ass and lead in receptions for us the last 2 years. Why release him, wot do we gain? we lose a solid player who doesnt cause trouble or complain
May 7th, 2008 at 9:34 am
SILVER N BLACK BLOOD Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 9:25 am
Dakota don’t you think if the league was going to suspended him they would have done it already?
_______________________________________________________
No, his case is still pending. As soon as he cuts a deal or is found guilty the NFL will ban him for at least 1 year. He was banned for 8 games last year…come on people, this guy is bad news, the Bungholes know it, the NFL knows it and even Al Davis would not be so dumb as to sign this guy and expose McFadden and Russell to his BS.
He might still be eligible to play while his case is pending, but I doubt they are going to allow a misdemeanor charge to be strung out for much more than the 180 days allowed; which means he will be prosecuted some time prior to or during the season, and given his record, I think it is safe to assume the worst regarding the disposition of his case. Once his case is resolved, Roger will drop the hammer and suspend him for at least 1 year.
Not worth the distractions and potential exposure to our young players to a guy that is a career criminal.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:37 am
Do you guys think JLH was a kiffin guy or an AD guy?
May 7th, 2008 at 9:39 am
How about some advice from my fellow Raidernation. There was some talk recently regarding Rebate Checks. Well, I got mine direct deposited on Monday. So, here is my dilemna. I have been wanting a new TV especially to watch my beloved raiders on Sunday. However, my other Raider buddy and I are planning on making a trip out west to see the first game against the donkeys. So, should I A) buy the TV later and join fellow Raidernation as we open our season with a win! or B) Go ahead and buy the TV and plan on using that travel money to see them down here when they take on Miami and Tampa. Also, I have a wedding coming up next year around this time, so I have to convince my fiance since we both are having to save $$$ for the big day. Tough call.
HELP????
May 7th, 2008 at 9:41 am
408…
I think JLH was a kiffin guy, after the draft Kiffin recalled something from a game he saw… furthermore, when he arrived he stated that our ST should be better, so he drafted partly for his returnskills (now he took branch because JLH didn’t pah out like he thought)
well thats just what I think =)
May 7th, 2008 at 9:42 am
SFR… first off… if you have any debt… the smart thing is to use it towards that… period… there’s always a reason to spend what you don’t have… and must of us have already done that (ie are in debt)…
May 7th, 2008 at 9:45 am
SouthFla… IMO nothing compares to going to a game in Oakland I got a buddy who lives in South Dakota & is makeing the trip to the BAY 4 the chefs game its all we talk about! The Tailgateing itself is worth it Pluss monday nite games @ home are even more wild! I say DO it and try and save up 4 a TV later…
May 7th, 2008 at 9:47 am
Henry will cop another long suspension from the Commish. I can’t see him playing anywhere next season.
Maybe Curry has gone. He is probably past his 2006 career-best and I think he will stuggle to get back to that level of productivity. I am not saying he won’t make it, but I am saying he is vulnerable.
Our top 5 are probably: Walker, Carter, Higgins, Shields and Curry. The big threats are Schilens, McFoy and Holland.
We might take a 6th WR - depends whether Kiff wants a 3rd TE or if the plan is for McFadden to get a few passes.
All I know is that some big names won’t be here in Sepetember. Grove? Schweigert? McQuistan? Curry?
May 7th, 2008 at 9:47 am
SouthFloridaRaider,
Buy your TV, then steal a boat, row to Mexico, hitchhike across Mexico to Tijuana, then buy a cheap bus ticket from SD to Oakland, and reverse those plans for going home. You get to have your cake and eat it too…unless you die in Mexico.
Or just buy your TV now, scrap the fancy wedding plans, fly to Oakland for the game, bring your gal (leave her at the hotel for the game), swing by Vegas while you are in the area, get married and return home a wiser man.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:49 am
LMN…
Darn if Coach Kiffin already dosnt like JLH then there gos my hope of him comming on strong(being his 2 year in the system)but I can dream!
May 7th, 2008 at 9:52 am
Dakota, I like it. Odds are, I want make it out Tijuana though!
Tonio, you make a good point. Everyone has debt in some way or fashion.
408 - I’m leaning with your call. I can always get the TV later! It’s been 4 years since my last visit to a Raider game in Oaktown and that was miserable. I was freezing my a** off and we lost to Jacksonville. Anybody here at that game? It rained the entire game. Lucky I did not get the flu or pneumonia.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:52 am
JLH will be okay. I just lost confidence last season - and Lofton is a good enough coach to make the most of his talent. Just remember how good he looked in pre-season.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:53 am
LMN,
I agree about JLH, he is too slow to be an Al guy, he was never on the track team at UTEP.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:55 am
Norv is a punk 4 letting Timmy go after all those great years he put in on bad teams. Im still pissed @ Al 4 that 1. Seeing my guy in a tampons uni was just wrong maby Norv will cut gates & lt! that would be great(dreaming again)
May 7th, 2008 at 9:56 am
I still have faith in JLH. He went from little Boise State to the NFL, so I am sure his nerves got the best of him last year. Hopefully he has been working his tail off and trying to find some clarity in the ST aspect of his game this offseason, and the game should slow down a little for him, so I expect JLH will have an impact on the games next season.
If not, cut his azz.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:57 am
SouthFla,
You sure it wasn’t a Titans game?
In regards to your earlier dilemma, go to the Donks game live, that is gonna be a wild evening in the HOT. Plus the price on TV’s is gonna keep on dropping, as the technology improves, you are better off waiting on that.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:58 am
Dakota,
JLH went to UTEP; Drisan James and Chris Carr played on the smurf turf
May 7th, 2008 at 10:02 am
BART Bridge Balla Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 9:58 am
Dakota,
JLH went to UTEP; Drisan James and Chris Carr played on the smurf turf
——————————————————-
Right, UTEP…I am a dumbazz.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:02 am
All the so-called experts are hyping up the Chargers this year. Am I the only one who thinks they are over-rated?
They are getting old in key positions. Their roster is just not as deep as some people imagine. LT is great but is starting to suffer from wear’n'tear. And Philip Rivers is not a Manning.
I genuinely think we have the offense to hurt them, if our defense can hold them to 20 points.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:02 am
408…
I think JLH was mainly drafted for ST, and I think he lost Kiffin’s vote in that regard, (enter branch) but I don’t think Kiffin lost his interest in JLH as a receiver, if JLH has patience. Kiffin only drafted tall guys this year, that means Kiffin still needs some small wr’s in the future… I don’t think he should fear the scout team
May 7th, 2008 at 10:03 am
The Raiders went out and got the best players they could at positions of need in the draft and free agency. It does not matter if it was a Kiffin or Davis pick because they had limited opportunities to sign good players anyway. What makes this site so funny if all the bullshit passed around by the post 1990 Raider fans who long for the glory us old timers got used to. The foundation has been set once again, get off the bus now and take your whining about Davis to another blog or find a new team.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:07 am
JLH wasn’t suited to the McCown dink’n'dunk offense of last season. But next season will be very different - we have JR and an even more potent running game. Kiff is going to want to stretch the field - vertically and horizontally. That plays more to JLH’s strengths.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:09 am
Eyepatch…
Most in here are down with Uncle Al! I’ll admit some dont want AL anymore but for the most part the whiners are just Trolls tryn to stir up some isht IMO.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:11 am
the sleeper LB to look out for this year will be Ekuijiba….he got hurt last year in pre season and they kept him on roster….they msut like what they see. Hope the guy steps it up!
May 7th, 2008 at 10:12 am
I think JLH will have 15-20 catches at WR and will win the punt return job next season. Not bad for a second year WR from…UTEP, lol. I don’t expect much next season from our second day WR draft picks; WRs take a while to progress, so look for them to become contributors in 09-10.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:14 am
I think Ekejiuba gets cut this year, they have only kept him around as a wedge buster on special teams. He is a big liability as a linebacker. Trevor Scott, our 6th round pick is apparently a phenomenal wedge buster and should replace Ekejiuba, who takes up roster space, imo.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:14 am
dudes I got 2 ladies in my office talkin in chineese i dont know WTF they’re sayin but it sounds serious? Makes it hard 2 get work done =)
May 7th, 2008 at 10:15 am
Dakota…
i was just about to tell you that BBB was right that JLH was a Utep guy… glad to see you corrected it =)
May 7th, 2008 at 10:15 am
BBB…
I totally agree…
well of to a meeting, see ya
May 7th, 2008 at 10:16 am
the Choker Dolt Dischargers are OVERRATED will NOT go to the Super Bowl…because they always choke and Norv Turner is there head coach. Rivers is a cry baby jerk off who thinks he is all that but he is not. LT is due to get hurt and there OL is banged up. There safeties are suspect and there run d is not the greatest.
I think the Colts, Jags and Steelers will be better than the DOLTS!
May 7th, 2008 at 10:16 am
408…. *duck*
May 7th, 2008 at 10:18 am
bartbridge,
i would surprised….supposedly they really liked him and I would hope they don’t cut him. You can never have too many LB’s that can play special teams. Can Ekuijiba be any worse then Sam Williams?
Personally I think Sam Williams should be used as more of a pass rusher like he was in college.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:19 am
408, did one of them say this:
我們不提出貓或尾隨在我們的餐館的食物！
May 7th, 2008 at 10:19 am
The sleeper to watch out for on punt and kick returns is Jonathan Holland. He didnt get a chance to do anything last year, but he will still have a leg up on all the rookies. I think the Raiders mostly got him for his return abilities.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:20 am
Hey Boise State rocks and has a good football program! Boise State Giant Killers! I think our Oakland Raiders are going to really suprise some doubters this year!
May 7th, 2008 at 10:20 am
Dakota
think so but cant be shure
May 7th, 2008 at 10:22 am
408,
Thank god, I can still eat at that restaurant then.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:26 am
dosent ever1 Darkknight..
Dakota ur 2 funny I’m gonna get in trouble 4 LoL
May 7th, 2008 at 10:26 am
hot chicks are ‘hot’ by definition… regardless of type…
BBB I’m soooo hoping that JLH will be good this year in PR’s… Field position is going to (as always) be a plus… and hopefully much improved on both pr and kr/s
May 7th, 2008 at 10:27 am
arrrr I always miss it by 1 or 2 post
May 7th, 2008 at 10:28 am
This is one of the youngest most talented teams in the NFL and nobody wants to admit it. Seems like old times. But the one thing that will seperate this team from those in the past is quarterback. A quarterback that can make all the throws, not just the short stuff, teamed with a an explosive running back and big, fast receivers to stretch the field once again to open up the running game. The defense will be much improved because the offense will be much improved. Kiffin could not have asked for better players to build a dynasty with if he lived four lifetimes. I bet he’s kissing Al’s feet now for giving hime the job.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:31 am
Tonio I agree ST improvment is vital to win loss record this year its all about field poss..
May 7th, 2008 at 10:36 am
JLH really got a bad break last year:
1. Rookie year
2. Punt Return and Recieving duties
3. Changing quarterbacks
4. Not from an elite program so his adjustment to NFL is even harder
5. Kiffin’s rookie year as well, didn’t use JLH very well.
JLH was a very productive reciever at UTEP, who run good routes, and got alot of yards after the catch. His eyes were as big as saucers last year, and the coaching staff is partly to blame for that. Lofton will get JLH ready for the season, and I think as a 4th option for us, he should have a good season.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:40 am
The problem with JLH isn’t a lack of speed — it’s his lack of aggressiveness to the ball. Last year, he didn’t go get the ball (especially on punt returns).
He has yet to overcome being intimidated at this level, and needs to let his natural talent do the thinking for him.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:41 am
You guys JLH is small. The guy goes about 170. NFL db’s can take a guy like that and throw him on the ground with one arm. That was Higgins problem last year, in addition to coughing it up waaaaay too much. Hopefully, this year he can improve.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:45 am
Im most lookin forward to seeing Trevor Scott in training camp. He has such raw potential hopefully he delivers. Its a bout time raiders get a lucky break on a late rounder. Im not asking for tom brady type luck just that we get a quality late rounder
May 7th, 2008 at 10:49 am
BBB — right on with your assessment of JLH.
#307, Darkhorse — And who is the young superstar D-lineman you’re looking for? The draft has come and gone, and unless we find one of the greatest undrafted Free Agents ever, we’re not going to fill that hole with a youngster.
Aren’t many places left to find what many people consider the last piece of the puzzle.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:06 am
Any thoughts on signing Adarius Bowman WR OK St. He’s big, great hands and has potential….apparently also likes “fatties” now and then…and Chris Henry is “free” to tryout with any team that will offer him a tryout….
May 7th, 2008 at 11:06 am
Dakota — Did I see you post something like…adding Chris Henry would be a good, low-risk move?
C’mon — there’s got to be some limit, sometime, don’t you think? Of the (allegedly) lowest-character guys in the NFL, this guy isn’t far from the bottom.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:12 am
JLH is not slow at all.
Here are some Pre-Draft analysis on him:
“Higgins underperformed at the combine to the tune of a 4.48 forty-yard dash, but he blew that away at UTEP’s pro day a few weeks later. His 4.30 and 4.34 on consecutive efforts confirmed what scouts had thought all along: that Higgins is one of the fastest-if not the fastest-receiver in the NFL Draft. He also has decent size at 6-0, but at 183 pounds, he is lean and needs to get much stronger.”
“Explosive athlete with the ability to break games open in a variety of ways. Quick getting to top speed, displays sharpness running routes and gets separation from defenders. Uses his frame to protect the pass and extends to pull the ball from the air.”
“A tremendous athlete who strikes fear in opposing defensive backs, Higgins offers immense potential for the next level. Needs to improve his playing strength without losing quickness, yet shows a relatively complete game and could be an outstanding slot receiver.
PROJECTION: Late Second Round.”
“Explosive is the best way to describe Higgins. He is a legitimate threat to take it the distance every time he touches the football. He is a very good athlete, and has excellent quickness and speed.
There aren’t many more wideouts in this draft that are as explosive as Higgins. For a team that wants speed and a playmaker at WR, Higgins is an excellent option. This is a talented draft for receivers, so Higgins slides a bit because of the depth. He is a player that could be taken in the third and surprise some in the league.”
He reminds me of Bernard Berrian, similar games coming out, both 3rd rounders and Berrian struggled at first too, I thin he caught something like 28 passes during his first 2 seasons before developing into a good player.
Let´s have some patience with Higgins, WR´s are known for having trouble adjusting, even the most talented ones.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:12 am
Jerry should realize that a lot of us do not come to this site for his overly pessimistic analysis. Most of us come here for this, the comment section. Its the best Raider talk on the web. This is the best place to get REAL indepth analysis.
No knock on Jerry. I really appreciate the blog, especially during camp.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:13 am
Hey guys I think I know why the trolls are trolls! I was just on a winer blog and thanked them 4 harris and wished them luck with their QBs! They got all bent. I didnt try to rob any1s name tho thats just low.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:16 am
yeah…but i’ll take a hot asian and or latina over any hot white chick.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:18 am
Bob,
Nice info, I have only ever seen his combine 40-time, which is good, but would make him the second slowest WR on our ‘track-team’ roster. He is definitely explosive, and has a lot of wiggle for a WR. I think JLH has all the intangibles that trump speed in the NFL, but he was just overwhelmed last year. With Lofton coaching him, and J-Rock throwing to him, I see JLH making huge strides in ‘08 and ‘09.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:18 am
Eyepatch — You’re right about this being one of the most talented young teams in the league. If JaMarcus ends up being as good as he could be, this team will be impressive for years.
JaMarcus, not McFadden, will be the key. All the talent in the world means nothing without a field general.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:19 am
To complement post 418…
JLH did produce while in College, it wasn´t against elite competition but he was not just a fast kid:
Higgins had a solid year for a freshman in 2003, hauling in 25 balls for 362 yards. As a sophomore, he established himself as one of the most explosive threats in the country. He was a 2nd team WAC selection after finishing the year with 34 catches for 700 yards and 10 touchdowns.
The Miners then moved to Conference USA and Higgins continued to make plays. He was a 2nd team C-USA selection in 2005, hauling in 49 balls for 837 yards and nine touchdowns.
Higgins exploded as a senior, posting career highs across the board, with 82/1319/13. He also averaged over 23 yards per punt return, taking two back for touchdowns.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:22 am
And BBB is right about Holland. That guy’s got a lot of talent, and his seat’s never been hotter than right now. Camp’s going to be very interesting for the WR corps.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:22 am
Agreed Hayes… JMac will be the key…not only this year…but in all future years that he’s on the field… hopefully he’ll be the stud C-pep was when he was rolling with Moss
May 7th, 2008 at 11:24 am
The problem with Higgins is not his speed. He can’t shake physical DB’s. that was why I was not high on Cal’s Desean Jackson. Fast but small. He’ll have the same problems in this league. As a coach you have to constantly send those guys in motion to free them up.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:25 am
HayesDaze#37 Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 11:06 am
Dakota — Did I see you post something like…adding Chris Henry would be a good, low-risk move?
C’mon — there’s got to be some limit, sometime, don’t you think? Of the (allegedly) lowest-character guys in the NFL, this guy isn’t far from the bottom.
_____________________________________________________
Wasn’t me dude, see post 370 and 359. I railed against signing him.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:25 am
I gotta think with all of the people we brought in at WR, that Kiff will want to carry 7 recievers, which might be possible if we only carry 2 QB’s
1. Walker
2. Curry
3. Carter
4. JLH
5. Shields
6. Holland
7. Schilens
May 7th, 2008 at 11:26 am
Yet oak… if you are a good coach ,… you can find ways to make that happen… hopefully Kiff can handle that… judging by what he helped do at usc… I think he is.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:27 am
The more comfortable JR gets- with the playbook, system, reads, audibles and what have you- the more I hope he becomes a vocal leader.
I just don’t want another Aaron Brooks situation….i want him to look like he gives a shit and based on what Jerry has been posting about his progress this off-season i have no reason to believe that he is not in the best shape of his life or busting his ass.
Let’s see some progress….8-8 would be progress in my eyes….hoping for better though, just like the rest of you.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:29 am
Glenn — I see, thx.
But…you’re off-base about JLH’s size. Steve Smith’s small, too, but he’s got it figured out. The good ones get it figured out.
If JLH and Holland are in the same boat — they better figure out this league in a hurry.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:34 am
BBB — Of those 7 WR’s, I’d package next year’s 2nd-round draft pick and either JLH, Holland or Curry in my trade offer (not giving up) with Andrew Walter…
…to the Cardinals for Anquan Boldin.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:36 am
Just thought this quote was repeating about our starting TE Zach “The Truth” Miller:
In fact, a one-hand grab in a practice during his freshman year at ASU earned him his nickname: The Truth. He went on to be the Pac-10 Freshman of the Year in 2004 after grabbing 56 catches for 552 yards.
“I made that catch,” explains Miller, “and one of my teammates said, ‘Man, everything that’s been written about you is the truth.’”
May 7th, 2008 at 11:37 am
Jamarcus Russell is one of the most amazing QB prospects to come around in 10 years. Now, can he be a Peyton or a Tom Brady??? What’s the difference between those guys and some of the other QB’s in the league???? Well, instead of burning blunts and fighting dogs, those two guys are in the film room at their facilities, RIGHT NOW!! Same thing with Jam. He’s studying with DeFillipo and Kiff right now!! The other thing I said quite a few months ago that everyone laughed at me about is I said wait til you see Jam once he gets more buffed up. People here laughed at me for saying that, but sorry, that’s the way it is in the league for most of the players. Once they get here, they see others lifting and working out, and most jump on the wagon. Not all (See Lamont Jordan), but most. Once Jam gets even a little more buffed, he’s going to be incredible!
May 7th, 2008 at 11:38 am
blog #217 Best blog o” the day! Congrats Dakota
May 7th, 2008 at 11:39 am
oops. I meant *worth repeating*
“The Truth” is gonna be the real deal in the NFL, he has lived up to his hype at every level.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:39 am
Unfortunately, I think it will take another 2 years before JLH even scratches the surface of his potential. Right now, he looks like another James Jett- all speed, no hands.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:39 am
As long as his head matches his incredible body…
May 7th, 2008 at 11:39 am
Daze, you are exactly right. I’ve been around Steve Smith a little bit, and that guy is just flat out unbelievable. He’s got stuff you can’t coach. I don’t know if I’ve seen many players with that guy’s toughness.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:41 am
JLH didn’t play up to his speed in pads last year….he needs to this year and he needs to play with more confidence and have a cocky attitude.
The whole team needs to play with more CONFIDENCE!
May 7th, 2008 at 11:42 am
EVERYONE!!! WE WILL BE FINE AGAINST THE RUN THIS YEAR! Im tired of all these people thinking EVERY move the raiders make this yeah should be to stopping the run. WE WILL BE FINE AGAINST THE RUN!
we need to score TDS!
May 7th, 2008 at 11:42 am
That Draft rpt was pretty good re JLH. He looked skittish to me. He needs to get stronger.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:42 am
year*
May 7th, 2008 at 11:44 am
OG,
Can’t agree more about Jam getting buff. In college, the coaches have a limited amount of time that they can keep their kids in the weight room, and the rest of the time, the players are normal students, worrying about their Econ tests and English papers. Plus, getting away from southern soul food, and his momma’s cooking will allow him to lose weight. JaMarcus was only a junior when we drafted him, that isn’t that far removed from the “Freshman 15″
May 7th, 2008 at 11:48 am
Derek — If you know you have a weakness, you should fill that need.
We can score TD’s all we want — but if we can’t keep them from scoring, too, they’ll run right down our throats like usual. There’s the key word — usual. It’s an embarrassment to the team that their usual run defense is the worst.
Unfortunately, it’s been so long since they’ve been good, they’re usually bad. Usually = almost always.
We haven’t yet addressed that D-line need, and it’ll be coming soon.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:50 am
Tim Brown wasn’t that big or strong… not even that “fast” … but he was quick.. and he was very smart… he had it figured out early and often… and “may” make it into the HOF
May 7th, 2008 at 11:50 am
They have addressed the D-Line…just not with the high-profile players that most people desire.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:52 am
and more so addressed it with in house people that we (hopefully) know…
May 7th, 2008 at 11:52 am
bartbridge and OG,
I agree about Jmarc…he will only grow and get better….just as long as he works hard and stays out of trouble…skies the limit for him…mentally and physically. Can’t wait to see him in top shape….which he will be in this year IMO.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:54 am
Tim Brown WILL make it to the Hall of Fame and should be a first balloter IMO. He ranks 2nd to Jerry Rice in multiple categories as WR the only thing missing is a Super Bowl ring. That should not and WILL NOT keep him from going first ballot.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:55 am
If the Raiders can convert and score TD’s instead of FG’s, they can take the run away from the opposition.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:58 am
DarkK… I hope…and agree he should be… just knowing our history … how many of our guys should be…and aren’t in… Tim’s a stud…and did so much on some very mediocre teams… … imagine if he had Montana instead of Shroeder…or… Wilson…or…
May 7th, 2008 at 11:59 am
Does anyone here remember when we could actually STOP the run?
Anyone here agree that a dominant run-defense can, and does, win Super Bowls?
The people who just turn their heads to the D-line problems amaze me.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:02 pm
Offense wins games, but defense wins championships.
Go Raiders.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
hayes,
Stopping the run comes to coaching and attitude IMO.
And Rob Ryan and Keith Millard better get these guys disciplined and get there attitude right when it comes to containing the run. RR will be monitored closely this year IMO…more than Kiffin should…
May 7th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
Of course I agree HayesDaze. You really need to be good at all facets of the game of football to be really good team. One hand washes the other.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
Koolkell… #452, Plus my blood pressure is way lower when Seabass is on the field for a PAT, rather a FGA.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Top 5 Run Defenses from last season:
MIN, BAL, PIT, WSH, TEN
These teams all had great defenses but couldn’t score enough points to continue through the playoffs.
The Giants were 8th, Patriots were 10th, GB/IND/SD were 14 thru 16. All of these teams made it further because they combined a decent defense with scoring ability.
The Giants won the superbowl because of PASS defense and not run defense. NE won games all year because of outscoring opponents and forcing them to throw, either creating INT’s or killed drives due to incompletions.
Proof is in the pudding. If we can have a run defense ranked 15th, and a scoring rank of 15th, then we should be a serious contender.
The most feared teams last year were all ranked in the top 5 in terms of Scoring. The Giants caught fire late and used great PASS defense, great running game, and improved play at the QB spot late in the season to make a run. They also got a little luck against GB.
Our run defense will improve by virtue of scoring points, stacking more in the box because we have better coverage in Hall and Aso, a safety that can tackle the runner, and the removal of Sapp. I don’t think a rank of 15 against the run is unreasonable.
The bigger question is whether or not we can rank in the top 15 in Scoring.
We also have a huge advantage because we are a totally different team that opponents will have to gameplan for without having film to study from. Our defense is revamped, as is our offense. Let’s just hope this yields a ranking of 15 on both sides of the ball.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Mine too, 909
May 7th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
HayesDaze37… Do the names of, Long, Townshed, Alzado. Ring a bell?
May 7th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
To answer your question HayesDayze#37 (post#454), the last time the Raiders could stop the run was in 2002 when they finished #3 in the league in run defense. The following year, they finished dead last. Here is the Raiders run defense rankings over the last ten years. It has been pretty dismal:
1997 30th
1998 15th
1999 12th
2000 5th
2001 22th
2002 3rd
2003 32nd
2004 22nd
2005 25th
2006 25th
2007 31st
2008 ?
May 7th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
We were also number 3 in Scoring in 2000, number 2 in 2002. A 12-4 record in 2000, an 11-5 record in 2002.
Something tells me that all that scoring had something to do with stopping the run.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
the only thing Higgins is good at is running downfield and hoping a defender bothers to cover him… i think he is that useless…
as for Curry… i thought he was great…
right up to the time he started hearing footsteps going over the middle…
now, unless he is running a sideline route… he may never catch another pass…
wow…
that was some harsh shit…
May 7th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
Our defense does not improve, until somebody shows Ryan the door, fact !
May 7th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
They Call Me Assassin
Post #459
Great analysis!
May 7th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
Killer shot Assassin…
May 7th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
Madness… the players still have to play… much of last years lack of success didnt have to do with the plays that were called… many times we were in position to do what was needed… and simply didn’t do it… ie tackle the guy with that thing called the ball…
May 7th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
ranking 15 and 15 both sides of the ball creates a much better record than one would expect… though I think we’ll be better on O than that.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Tim Brown will make the HOF. If he doesn’t all balloters that voted against need to be shot.
The Chargers may be over-rated but they are still the best in the West unless we prove otherwise. Right now the Chargers and Denver will get props and respect by default b/c they’ve been there for a number for years now.
JLH should improve. How good he’ll be who knows. He was noticably skittish out there and tried to much on PRs and KRs. I expect him to win PR duties and be on the field more than last year. He needs to get stronger to survive in this league and be the terror he’s capable of being.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
I think it’s easy for us to say “We can’t stop the damn run”, but the truth is teams rarely had to pass against us because they were always the high scorer going into the game late. Sure our games were usually close, but the difference between winning and losing was us not being able to put points on the board late in games.
If we cram the box and force teams to throw, I suspect we’d be tops in the leage in Pass Defense, INT’s, and Turnovers.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
ExLA and Tonio - I appreciate the comment, but truly not necessary. I’m not trying to pick fights with anyone here, just wanted to clarify that the DL has as much to do with stopping the run as the ability to score points does.
Improving the DL is a MUST, and I fully agree. I just think we’ve improved it more than some of us want to believe. On an overall basis, our run defense as a team will certainly improve. Not because of the DL, rather the talent behind the DL as well as the (assumed) perception that we will score more points.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
# They Call Me Assassin Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
We were also number 3 in Scoring in 2000, number 2 in 2002. A 12-4 record in 2000, an 11-5 record in 2002.
Something tells me that all that scoring had something to do with stopping the run.
No one had time to run the ball because of the pinball scores that were put up that year, is exactly right assassin. Scoring points doesn’t let the other team run to eat the clock but if the offense struggles then you get what happened to us and new england last year in the super bowl. Thats why you hear the “defense wins championships ” in most cases.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
If Timmy Brown doesn’t make the HOF then Al will spend the balance of his life trying to sue the voting commission and he’d be right to do so. TB is a first ballot hands down.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Assasin… you welcome…though I wasn’t meaning at all to imply that you were or would pick fights with anyone… I agree… I think we’re much better than is currently expected… of course … time will tell…
May 7th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Assassin,
Just agreeing with your logic. Well put together. I fought the McFad vs D before the draft. Not trying for a replay.
May 7th, 2008 at 12:57 pm
Some numbers from 2007:
TURNOVERS.
2007 Raiders Turnover Differential: -11, Rank (28th).
In 12 Losses: -15.
In 4 wins: +4.
DEFENSIVE INCONSISTENCY.
-There were 9 games were the Raiders “held” the opposition below the league averages of 325 total yards and 21.7 points.
-The average rushing yards allowed during those 9 games was 117, that´s 6 yards above the league average of 111-
Those 9 games included all 4 of our wins, they were:
(H)CLE
(A)MIA
(H)KC
(A)TENN-playoff team
(H)CHI
(A)KC
(H)DEN
(H)INDY-playoff team
(H)SD-playoff team
Opponents average rushing rank combined: 18th.
As for the other 7 games, the Defense allowed and average of:
Points: 29.5
Total yards: 416
Rushing yards: 183
Those 7 games, all defeats were:
(H)Det
(A)Den
(A)SD-playoff team
(H)Hou
(A)Minn
(A)GB-playoff team
(A)Jax-playoff team
Opponents average rushing rank combined: 13th.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Allowed 3 returns for TD.
Only three teams allowed more than two: Oak (3), Den (3) and Indy (4).
SCORING FACTS
True numbers, without defensive and ST´s scoring:
Offense: 16.6 ppg.
Defense: 23.5 ppg.
NFL average ppg: 21.7 (all scoring included).
May 7th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
R8R4FER - Great point. In those pinball type games, I’ll take our Pass Defense against any in the league.
If we get into shootouts, the need for coverage and pass rushers will be critical. My concern is not against the run, rather the pass rush. I hope Burgess, Kelly, Richardson, Edwards find a way to get behind the line of scrimmage. I suspect they will with extra time that the DB’s and LB’s should provide in coverage.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
Art Monk should have been a 1st ballot HOFer too, but look what happened to him.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
Still not the right answer, Assassin. Ignoring an obvious problem doesn’t make it go away. No matter how many points we score.
We don’t need a top-5 defense to win big games, or most games…we need at least an average defense to do that — and that’s assuming we have an offense that will put points on the board.
Putting up our past 10-years’ averages proves the point exactly, too — how many games have we won in the years our numbers are near the bottom? More than any team in the league?
And to bring up a few strong, but misleading stats of a few of our defenses doesn’t work, either. The team’s record speaks for itself.
An average defense in all those years, and this team wouldn’t be where we are right now. And yes, RR is mostly to blame for that.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:13 pm
The only thing that really tempers my enthusiasm for the upcoming season is the fact that Al Davis retained Rob f-ing Ryan. How many chances should a guy get? He has been a failure from day one (and if you think 2006 had anything to do with Rob f-ing Ryan, get your head checked).
May 7th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
You can’t win championships by outscoring people. The Patriots may have went 16-0, but it was their defense that let them down in the big one. Besides, the Raiders offense is not going to able to score at will, at least in Russel’s first year or two. If the Raiders hope to have any success this year, they better hope the defense is much improved. The Raiders are most likely going to be winning games 20-17, not shootouts.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:17 pm
Marley — great stats.
Go back and look at a few tapes of our losses in those games where we held opponents below the league scoring average — it’s not that we held them below those averages that counts…
It’s that the defense couldn’t stop teams late — when pressure up-front is most needed, we’re out of gas, too slow, or just not talented enough to get to the QB.
It’s not all about stopping the run or pass…it has a lot to do with doing those things regularly. Doing them at crunch-time will never happen until we’ve got the body/ies to do that — great secondary or not.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
i had a dream……………thomas howard probowl this year
May 7th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
fabian Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
i had a dream……………thomas howard probowl this year
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
you dream about Thomas Howard???
damn, bubba, you gotta get that checked…
May 7th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
i dream about raider football baby……thomas howard probowler mark it down good as gold.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
I had a nice dream the other day, but I can’t really talk about it here.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
hah anyone know what number deangelo hall has?
May 7th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
It had something to do with this:
http://www.theseductionbible.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/threesome.jpg
May 7th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
when i dream about Raider football…
Jessica Alba is the center…
i’m the quarterback…
yeah, baby…
that’s Raidering…
May 7th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Assassin — I appreciate your point of view, and respect your opinion, my backfield brother.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Assassin, the problem we have is we’re not close to those kind of offensive numbers yet. I hope that we can have a strong running game with dmc and co. then evolve into a balanced attack
May 7th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
Pete,
In your dream, after the play, did you go to the sideline for a “blow”?
May 7th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
23
May 7th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
in my dream… she always forgets the snap count…
and i’m trying to signal her to hike the ball…
it really is a wonderful dream…
May 7th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
Anyone hear about DMCs blog?
“McFadden opens up in his own blog
May 7, 2008 3:50 PM
Posted by ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson
Darren McFadden has joined Blogger Nation. The newest member of Raider Nation shows some nice personality in these entries.
Opening up in a blog doesn’t make him a saint off the field or a Pro Bowl player on it. Still, this is a nice way of getting to know McFadden who is entering the league saddled with questions about his character. In person, McFadden, the Arkansas running back who as the No. 4 overall pick by Oakland, comes across as friendly and eager to please. Same way in these entries.
Remember, this is a 20-year-old kid. It’d be silly to cast him off as a bad seed already. Give him a chance … and give him a read.”
May 7th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
All great points. However, we could post stats all day to justify our opinions. At the end of the day, there are two ways to win and teams win with different styles.
When it came down to the superbowl, it was pass defense that helped the Giants win. Moss was non-productive, Brady was rushed all day, and the Giants were able to put points on the board to counter NE’s scoring abilities.
My problem with suggesting that we need to stop the run by getting more DL talent is that we don’t take all of the facets to stopping the run into account. The Superbowl is the ultimate measure, and last years superbowl was won with Pass defense and the ability to score when needed.
The great defenses of the Bears and Ravens were exceptionally great defenses but even they had to score.
Regardless of how we look at our team, we have needs on both sides of the ball, and Scoring points is a much larger need at this point than stopping the run is. We’ve done enough to aid in the run D department with proven players, I’m not sure we’ve done that with the offense.
Being good on both sides of the ball wins Championships. You’d be a fool to suggest that only a great defense wins championships. If this were the case then the Vikings would’ve won it last year.
We weren’t good on either side of the ball last season. This offseason has improved the defensive side of the ball with proven players. The offense was revamped but it was done with guys that have a lot of “potential”. Our concern shouldn’t be stopping the run, it should be our ability to score.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
thanks quagmire’d deangelo hall or mcfadden jersey buck it both one in black one in white
May 7th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
Here we go Lakers here we go!
May 7th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
Both sides of the ball are improved on paper. I’m just saying the team has a known, glaring weakness, and they’re not done addressing it.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
Man, Dakota, you get off-topic more than anybody in the joint. You been gettin’ ahold of A.I.’s norcos?
May 7th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
On paper, we are the BEST every year…lol.
Let’s make it count this year!
May 7th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
Agreed Hayes. I’m hoping (as are you I presume) that the potential lives up to the billing. I like our chances on D more than I do on O. Let’s pray JR has got the playbook down, as does all the newcomers otherwise we’re F’d.
As for Rob Ryan, nobody needs to convince me that he needs to be fired. I don’t like his style or his lame morale boosting praises he gives to average players. Where’s Willie Shaw when you need him.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Ahh, Willie. Nice memory of a coaches coach.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
KOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOBEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!
Gentleman, a good afternoon to you then.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
im tellin you where lookin a lot like the vikings last year minus big kat williams in da middle of the dL but where gonna be exciting very exciting on both sides of the ball
May 7th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Willie Shaw… ” when the lights turn on are you roaches or ants “
May 7th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
Why did Willie Shaw leave in the first place? When he was D-Coordinator we had a farely good ranking.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
I’d be very happy if we fielded a Vikings type of team. If (BIG IF) Terdell regains form, then we can be very a close representation of the Vikings. We should also have a better QB.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
The Vikes D-line is gonna be sick this year….their D-Line with our secondary- man-o-man. Smells like turnovers…and I don’t mean apple.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:54 pm
February 4, 1998; New York Times
The Raiders had arguably the worst defense in the National Football League last season. Willie Shaw has been given the job of turning it around.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:54 pm
He left when Gruden was here right…? I think after his first year… Shaw was awesome…and I think Gruden was a bit intimidated by his strength with the players… and a difference of opinions sent him away… (I think.. if memory serves… )
May 7th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
i like are linebacking core over theres thomas howards a playmaker but yeah there dL is better then ours kevin or kat williams not sure his name is a stud
May 7th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
The Oakland Raiders yesterday fired defensive coordinator Willie Shaw, who was credited with rebuilding a defense that ranked last in the NFL when he joined the team two seasons ago.
Under Shaw, who has been mentioned as a candidate for head coaching vacancies after the past two seasons and was interviewed by the New England Patriots for their head-coaching vacancy, the Raiders ranked fifth in the league in defense last season.
Raiders spokesman Craig Long said the club decided not to renew Shaw’s contract after he met with coach Jon Gruden to discuss the future.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
Tonio — your memory does serve you right.
May 7th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
So, Davis lets Gruden fire Willie Shaw, but won’t let Kiffin fire Ryan. What the hell?
May 7th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Many people worship Gruden — and I give him a ton of credit for what he and Gannon did for this team while here — but look at what he leaves in his wake.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Good point, Bam Bam Bigelow…what gives?
May 7th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
The Vikes got Pat & Kevin Williams plus Jared Allen…that’s just plain ridiculous.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
ABP — see what happens when you give away too much control to a coach with a giant ego?
(Cue the Al haters)
May 7th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
Willie Shaw is not in the league and hasn’t been for a good long while. It didn’t take long for NFL OC’s to figure Willie out.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
Al sucks.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
Al davis is the man altough he resembles the evol emperor in star wars.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Al Davis = Cryptkeeper or Skeletor
May 7th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
We went from Shaw to Bressnahan… lol Hayes… re the haters…
May 7th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
al davis= a old memeber of the mob
May 7th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Yeah…I need to retract what I said about us fielding a team like the Vikings. No way our Defense will compare to theirs. Sands can play like a pro-bowler but nobody on our team will match what Jared Allen will do.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Actually Daze, a few “fans” here lionize Gruden like he was the 2nd coming of Vince Lombardi. I thought he was OK, but nothing unbelievable. And to my point, none of his drafts here were worth mentioning, none of his drafts in Tampon Bay have been worth mentioning, after winning the Super Bowl with Dungy’s players he posted a losing record, and if he didn’t take his team to the players last year, he clearly would’ve been run. Now give him credit for getting to the playoffs but, NO OTHER TEAM IN HIS DIVISION HAD A WINNING RECORD!!!!! Carolina and Atlanta had particularly bad years. Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
a grumpy old member still ordering hits on his young up and coming head coaches cuz he thinks there tryin to take his power
May 7th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
Some news of Willie Shaw at the time:
“It was Jon Gruden, not Al Davis, who forced out Raiders defensive coordinator Willie Shaw. Shaw and other coaches on the staff butted heads about game-planning, and some of the other coaches thought Shaw wasn’t open to their input. Gruden wants someone in the position whom he thinks will be easier to work with and will go along with the program”.
Sporting News
“A deteriorating relationship between Willie Shaw and Jon Gruden reportedly led to Shaw’s departure from the Raiders after two years as their defensive coordinator.
At the 2000 Pro Bowl in Honolulu, Oakland cornerback Charles Woodson told reporters: “There was a rift, and it developed as time went on. No, I’m not surprised (by Shaw’s firing).”
Shaw told Bay Area reporters he was fired Jan. 10 in a meeting with Gruden and club executive Bruce Allen. The Raiders said they chose not to re-hire Shaw so he could pursue a head-coaching job.”
May 7th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
buck it who cares if it was gruden grudens a biatch in my book always will be buck em
May 7th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Gruden would’ve been much less successful without Gannon. Just like Dungy would be without Manning.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Gruden may not have been all that he is made out to be on this blog, but i tell you what- he fielded a highly competitive team a majority of the time he was here. And there weren’t too many games I felt like we were out of when he was the coach. I always felt like there was a chance for a comeback. Whether or not that happened is a different story.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Fabe — Al doesn’t worry about anyone taking his power. Al’s done it the only way he could all these years, to ensure he’s the man in charge at all times.
Hate him or love him, ya gotta respect that! If you don’t, you will as you get older!
May 7th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Al Davis looks more like Nosferatu. Check these out and see the resemblance for yourself:
http://blogs.the-review.com/leftofcybercenter/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/nosferatu1.jpg
May 7th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
Quagmire’d - Substitute Gannon in your post for Gruden, and I felt the exact same way.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
“albert bigelow paine Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
So, Davis lets Gruden fire Willie Shaw, but won’t let Kiffin fire Ryan. What the hell?.”
Jerry once said, Gruden never won less than 8 games……
With a decent showing next year Kiffin will get his guy. It was discussed this offseason but Kiffin could not pull it off.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
That may be so Assassin, but it was Gruden’s idea to bring in the washed-up, has-been Gannon.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
By the way, the Gruden era was great for us, I have no problem with him.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
Agreed, Assassin…Gannon had a lot to do with that too. Probably one of the smartest to play the position for the Raiders.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Assassin is right on with the Gannon comment. Gannon was the reason Gruden was able to drive the team so hard…and that goes to your point, Quag’d — the team could be spurred-on sometimes by Gruden’s fire.
It was a pleasure to watch Rich Gannon play football as well as he did for those few years.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
hayes daze i agree 100 percent dats why i called him a mobb boss respect it or get wacked
May 7th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Without the Gruden era, who knows where this franchise would be.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
Quag’d — Probably on a solid foundation, set a few years earlier.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
u know who was a total idiot callahan
May 7th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
Gruden did lay a solid foundation- it just couldn’t hold-up once he left….that’s gotta fall on the shoulders of Uncle Al. He got what he wanted- cash and draft picks- and still relied on yes men to get the job done.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
the old man looks like nosferatu?!
LOL….Thats funny!
May 7th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
no gruden left us with a aging veteren team built to go on a 2 year superbowl run
May 7th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Dakota, that’s a pic of Rudy Guilani!!!
May 7th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
All props to Gruden (for the most part) — but the defenses that Bresnahan and RR subsequently wasted were looking pretty good with Willie. His occassional let-downs in coverage/play-calling were far less regular than what we’ve become accustomed to.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
lincoln kennedy, tim brown, jerry rice, garnder, gannon, eric allen, romanoski just to name a few
May 7th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Ok Fabian, Gruden left a winning attitude then.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
Tuche Quagmire’d. You’re absolutely right, Gruden was the one that brought him here. I just wonder if that was an Al move or a Gruden move.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
Gruden did force Shaw out. But let’s not forget who hired both Shaw and Gruden, knowing both of their personality traits and that the two heads would never fit in the same building. Anyone still wondering why Davis is keeping Ryan, despite how horrible our defense is? More antics from the owner who wants to be in power more than any owner in the game…and then maybe win like 4 games a year, while he’s at it…
May 7th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
ok gruden left a winning attitude for one whole year which callahan destroyed next year in the superbowl, running grudens identical offense thinking it would work.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
I knew we’d get MR out with the Al talk
May 7th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
Assassin,
The Bears had a great D but they also had McMahon in his prime, Sweetness Walter Payton at RB, and Willie Gault for the long ball. Not to mention the Fridge William Perry in special spots at fullback. Balanced team.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
Hey Fabian, until recently the Raiders continued to rely on aging veteran free agents. BTW, who is the primary and sole negotiator/talent evaluator? That would be Al Davis….so in the end it was his idea to sign those guys…primarily based on name and rep more so than skill level (declining).
May 7th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Hey Fabes, that’s Callahan’s fault, not Gruden’s. Or maybe it was Al’s if he told Callahan to keep everything exactly the same.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
I just hope kiffen stays around hes a great young coach and he has them playin hard even warren sapp stood up for him hope all realizes he cant keep switching coaches especially wit a young qb look at alex smith
May 7th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Some of the biggest egos in the world end up coaching their teams to the Super Bowl, and winning it.
Al cut his teeth on bad-a$$ players and coaches with huge egos — they wouldn’t be great without them. Big egos can find a way to work together if they want to. Gruden proved his point — and his defenses never could save him.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
And laughing hard over here at the goofballs insisting it was Gannon who’s to credit for our success in the GRUDEN ERA. Gannon would have never come near Oakland if it wasn’t for Gruden, his system, and his sense of discipline when it came to practice and preparation.
Gannon, like Gruden, is a control freak. Davis is too, it’s just that Davis doesn’t know what he’s doing, because the NFL game has passed him by years ago.
Gruden and Gannon were a tandem. One could not exist without the other, and before you mention 2002, allow me to remind you that the tail end of that season is more proof than anything.
Gannon once said in an NFL films segment that he despised the laxed atmosphere in Oakland, and didn’t know how a team that lost so often could find time to have so much fun. Gannon also criticized the team last year, during the Denver game that he called with CBS. Gannon talked about how Shanahan usually has the edge on the Raiders because the Raiders don’t practice hard.
Gannon is not a Davis guy. He’s a Gruden guy. Gannon as an Oakland Raider, and the success he saw with the Raiders and that the Raiders saw with him, is a PRODUCT of Jon Gruden.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
Hey Assassin, it was all Gruden. You know exactly the type of QB Davis covets- hell, we have him right now.
Gruden had to convince him to sign, convince him that the team was moving in the right direction and he was able to do just that. Is it a coincidence that Gannon was never the same after Gruden left? They saw eye to eye and fed off of each other.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
all things came together right for that raider team charlie garnder perfect fit for the offense tim brown and jerry rice played timeless football the o line was dominant and the defense special teams was a roller coaster at times
May 7th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
doesn’t the HC deserve some credit for that Fabian?
May 7th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
That,s a good point, whoever said Davis was like an aging mobster. I work in Chicago’s Italian neighborhood, and I see these old and pathetic washed up has beens who hang out in their “social clubs”, thinking they are some kind of big shot. Like Davis, they think they are living in the 1960s. I actually saw these old farts threatening a meter maid for ticketing their illegally parked car. “Hey what da fu*k yous thinks yous doin. Yo like yo job. I gonna have yous transfered”. That is exactly what Davis is like with his coaches. They try and do their job, but if their opinion differs from “Big Al”, he has them wacked.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
and big tyrone wheatly runnin over linebackers
May 7th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Quag asks where this franchise would be without the Trader(gruden) years.surely no worse than the last 5 years,which was a direct result of the traders years.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
any1 have thoughts on this guy DE
Greyson Gunheim of Washington
May 7th, 2008 at 2:39 pm
If it wasn’t for the Jon Gruden era, the NFL would have disbanded the Raiders by now. The Raiders, had Gruden never been here, would have just completed their 11th consecutive last place season. The NFL would straight up sue. In fact, there was talk of that happening when the stories were swirling about the resignation letter to Kiffin. Maybe that’s what made Al cool his jets. Goodell sent Dysfunctional Al to his corner, and Al wised and learned his lesson, and decided to give Mr. Kiffin another chance.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
head coach installed the offense it was a great offense he had all the players buying into his system yes i agree with all that he was a great young passionete coach, yet i dont believe hes the greatest thing to happen to the raiders since bo jackson. Yeah it was great the chucky dolls and all that, but look at gruden now super bowl 3 or 4 years out the playoffs back in the playoffs first round loss. His tampa bay team isnt lookin to bright for the future, his chucky look is old and played out, and i dont think hes the next bill parcels bill walsh jimmy johnson or any legendary coach.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
I doubt Goodell is strong enough to discipline Davis.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
Sometimes you have to treat senile old people like they’re kids. In a way, they are kids. So, it could be that Goodell had to step in and make Al behave.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
408… I mentioned him yesterday… I think he’s going to be good… possibly like richardson was for us last year…
May 7th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
MR — By giving Gruden all credit, you diminish what Gannon did for this team. If Gruden couldn’t get the team off its collective a$$ consistently, who was going to do it.
Having personally seen nearly every game of Gannon’s Raiders career in-person, and having seen around +/- 75 QB’s play pro football over the years, I know this:
For what he was given talent-wise, Gannon was about as good as it got for 3-years here. Give the guy his credit.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
Can never have enough gimps on this team. Bring ‘em on! Bring ‘em all on!
May 7th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
Gruden, and Gannon, were the greatest things to happen to the Raiders since Bo Jackson. Other than their move back to Oakland, can you tell me what has been better?
May 7th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Hey Lefty, Al gets what he wants yet it’s still Gruden’s fault? So all of Al’s decisions after the fact are Gruden’s fault as well?
May 7th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Paine, Al Davis has the mind of a 10 year old…except when it comes to football knowledge, where most 7 year olds are smarter than Davis. Goodell could have easily sent Al to his corner and made him behave with Kiffin.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
Without Gannon, Gruden wouldn’t have been as successful… how much noise has he made with out Dungy’s team?
May 7th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
For some reason I can’t post the link to this foxsports article, but here are the highlights…some decent things said about the Raiders:
_______________________________________________________
The Josh McCown Award: For the journeyman quarterback who seems to join a new horrendous team every off-season:
Winner: Josh McCown, QB, Miami
Let’s take a look at McCown’s career resume:
2002-2005 — Arizona Cardinals, Record: 20-44
2006 — Detroit Lions, Record: 3-13
2007 — Oakland Raiders, Record: 4-12
All together, McCown’s career winning percentage as a pro is a putrid 28 percent. He’s the Jamal Crawford of the NFL. And now? McCown, he of 35 career touchdowns and 40 career interceptions, signed with the rebuilding Miami Dolphins, a squad that is fresh off a horrendous 1-15 campaign in 2007. McCown will play the role of veteran quarterback on a team that also features second-year signal caller John Beck and rookie Chad Henne on its depth chart.
Here’s the thing, though: I like McCown. I always have. I think he’s gritty, has willed his team to victory on more than a few occasions, and has good mobility and a fairly decent arm. I’d just love to see what he could do as a backup on a somewhat competitive team at some point. I understand you can’t always just pick which team you want to play for in the free-agency game. Not everyone can start at quarterback for the New England Patriots. But after dreadful back-to-back years in Detroit and Oakland, I was a bit surprised to see McCown sign a deal with Miami. Of course, something tells me this isn’t the guy’s last stop.
_______________________________________________________
The Shaquille O’Neal Award: For the acquisition of a veteran player with a recent history of injuries for big, big money.
Winner: Javon Walker, WR, Oakland
For a guy who’s played more than eight games in just one of the past three seasons, the Oakland Raiders sure are spending a lot on Walker. The deal — announced in early March — netted Walker an $11 million signing bonus, and will earn him $20 million in the first two years of his Raiders contract; $27 million in the first three, and $35 million in the first four. That’s A LOT of money for a guy who had just 26 catches and did not score a touchdown in his eight games with Denver last season.
_______________________________________________________
The Fab Five: Five Teams That Improved This Off-Season:
Oakland: Sure, the Raiders spent an arm and a leg to do so. But they’ll be a much improved squad heading into next season. At least on paper, they will. The defense was bolstered with the signing of Gibril Wilson, the trading for D’Angelo Hall, and the long- term deal given to up-and-coming defensive lineman Tommy Kelly. Nnamdi Asomugha was given the franchise tag and will be back for at least one more season, too. On offense, Darren McFadden’s presence adds a much-needed gamebreaker to the fold, and though I can argue all day and night over the money given to him — Javon Walker is a significant upgrade from what was starting alongside Ronald Curry last season. And if Walker stays healthy? Well, then he may just be worth it.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Don’t forget, MR, that Davis is one of Goodell’s bosses.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Albert,
That Metallica show in the parking lot was pretty great!
May 7th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Yeah Quagmired, I agree, Gruden was way too conservative for me, but his teams were competitive.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
u got me there they where the highest of the high but that quickly turned the losest of the low aka 1 season but enough of all this gruden bs, he’s gone been gone, him and rich gannon are not comming back, that offense is no longer effective the defenses quickly figured it out, atheletes are taking over.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Hayes, Gannon never steps foot in Oakland if it wasn’t for Gruden. Rich Gannon is not an Al Davis guy. He’s fired more than one shot across Al’s bow, mostly regarding the team’s lack of discipline and preparation. Remember, Al believes in great players getting it done, and isn’t much of a stickler on hard practices. he also likes to let his veterans breathe, sort of give them an oasis from the rest of the league. It’s how he gets players to sign here. They know they don’t have to work. They’ll get a check for nothing. Gannon was never down with that. He puts winning before all else, and so does Gruden. Davis doesn’t know anything about that, obviously.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
aka mcfadden baby
May 7th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
jump on the mcfadden al davis train or buck it cheer for the niners cuz we dont need you
May 7th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
Hey Fabes, I was only speaking of Gruden while he was here. He was good for the Raiders at the time, but he wasn’t the greatest thing to happen to him. I don’t even think Bo Jackson was the greatest thing to happen to the Raiders- how many good years did he give us, 1 or 2 at the most? Don’t get me wrong, he was quite the talent but he didn’t even last 5 years in the league and we don’t really have much to show for it. no Super Bowl, no nothin’.
As for Gruden now, he’s on the decline. No doubt.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
Quagmire’d,
Read Gru’s book. Davis was the first to suggest Gannon.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
you know what i love most bout being a raider fan this year, telling all the niner fans before the draft where gettin mcfadden hearing them wimper sayin no way no way then seeing there faces when u mention mcfadden on the raiders.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
according to most people on here AD is the Raiders.nothing gets done without his approval.all transactions are AD moves.he is the reason we’ve been losers the last 20 odd years,yet he somehow gave total control to your boy chuckie for 3 years and then chuckie was going to leave due to AD.sorry,i can’t buy that scenerio.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
priceless
May 7th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
ad is the raiders has been since the first superbowl give the man his respect its his team his organization his life, the man is a walking altough sumtimes in a wheelchair or with a cane legend. No other owner could have made all the moves he made givin the situation period. What Al gives Al takes away ask gruden art shell callahan domic rhodes etc.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
Hey Fabian,
You may want to consider changing your name. Know what I mean??
May 7th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
any suggestions
May 7th, 2008 at 2:57 pm
Hmmmm….
Well, not Tyler, or Dominic, or Barry….
May 7th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
mcfaddens wagon?
May 7th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
408,
Here is the stuff on Greyson Gunheim from condraft:
Overview: Greyson is a higly decorated DE for the Huskies. He was named 2nd team all Academic Pac-10 in 2005 and Honorable Mention All Pac-10 in 2006. A 4 year starter who came on really strong for the Huskies the last 2 seasons.
Strengths: Has good size and is really effective against bigger oversized offensive linemen. really quick, and still has good size. Really fast around the corner and makes a straight path for the QB. Great against the run, with 42 career TFL. Can generally time and deflect passes better than almost any DE in the country. Had an incredible 21 passes defensed in 2006, but had only 4 in 2007. Very good at running laterally and can handle quick back on quick pitch carries.
Weaknesses: Just not big enough or shift y enough to slide off really solid tackles. Most of his production seems to come in short stretches of the game. Can disappear throughout a game. Despite reaching the backfield almost every play, never quite seems to track the QB down fast enough for the sack, and rarely ever forces a fumble.
Most mocks had him ranked about the 15th best DE in the draft. Kiff would have known Gunheim from the PAC10 and it is rumoured that USC acually recruited this guy coming out of high school.
Gunheim might stick, because he is the nearest cover for Jay Richardson. Scott is more of a pass-rusher and is possibly the longer-term successor to Burgess.
May 7th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
How about McRusell? or JaFargas?
May 7th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
About Bo…..he certainly was all-that, although Marcus didn’t like it. While Marcus was pouting like a prima donna and chasing blondes, Bo was amazing us.
Was Al behind the times then, MR? 2 top-flight starting-quality running backs in one backfield… who’da thunk that would ever become a standard in the league?
May 7th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
those sound like sumtin of a mcdonalds menu
May 7th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
Hey Lefty, I believe AD was more lenient with Gruden, but there is no way in hell he is gonna give full control to anyone. But like I said AD got what we wanted and as a result we haven’t done shit since…
Hopefully, until now.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
mcfaddens wagon sounds a lil more krispy
May 7th, 2008 at 3:03 pm
603….he, not we.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:03 pm
It’s all yours.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
circle dem up boys its moving time
May 7th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
Quag-chuckie is the one who got what he wanted-out of Oakland to Florida.he is the one who was going to leave.no way he wanted to be the Raider coach.he used us and AD to get what he wanted.what exactly did AD want that he got?
May 7th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
That’s great, but make it real: McFadden
May 7th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
phillip over ratted buchanon
May 7th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
wow…
free speech in america….
what makes free speech in america so special is that you don’t have to know anything…
just have an opinion….
May 7th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Just did a drive-thru D-Macs blog page, it has a comments section with a simple registration process. Then you can welcome D-Mac to the NATION.
Check it out. They won’t let me post it here.
But here’s a hint.htt-:// yardbarker.c–/users/darrenmcfadden
May 7th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
McFadden’s Wagon sounds like a John Wayne movie.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
Like it or not, here is the last game we played having a proven quality HC:
http://www.sworddragon.com/passions/images/gruden2.jpg
Now, I would never say that the “Gruden Era” was a result of Gruden building this team. Al Davis is in charge of this team and he made all of the calls on all of the players and coaches during the “Gruden Era”, just like he has made all of the calls on all of the players and coaches since he took over the Raiders.
I give Al props for finding Gruden. I give Gruden props for taking what AD gave him and turning it into a respectable on-field product. How did he do it? He had the respect of most of the players and he ruled with an iron fist. Since then we have had:
Callahan: No people skills whatsoever
Norv: No leadership or discipline
Art: gave us nothing, had 0 respect from the players
Kiffin: is in the process of instilling some discipline, just like Gruden, and placing a competitive product on the field, but again, Al Davis is set to derail him.
Why? It has to be ego. AD can’t live with a coach that does not follow everything he says to a T. So, once Kiffin is ran out of town by Al, he will hire another sycophant and all the progress we saw on the field last year will be wiped clean and we will be stuck rebuilding again with an azz kissing HC like Rob Ryan or James Lofton. The players will not have the discipline to win in the NFL and the coach will not have the players’ respect…a vicious circle that will not be broken unless AD has a change of heart (LOL) and lets his HC be his own man and make the required decisions that are necessary to run an NFL team…I am not holding my breath for that day. I just hope Kiffin can get something accomplished next year to try and force AD into picking up his options for 09 and 10.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
Lefty, $8 million and draft picks. If he wanted to make life miserable for Gruden, then he should have just kept him…like he is doing with Kiffen- refuse to fire him, then provided him with a drawn up contract for his resignation and when he refuses to sign it, he keeps him. Could have done the same thing to Gruden if he really wanted to.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
haha immah pitch the id to raider nation to have a special section in the colisium mcfaddens wagon
May 7th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
Dakota — for a guy who can’t stand the rumor-mill, you sure further them…
Just because the kid needed to learn a few things about the business of the NFL doesn’t mean Al wants him to go anywhere. Smoke and fire, and all those other code words mean nothing.
Hopefully, Kiffin and Al both see they can work together for a long time. Winning solves almost all conflicts.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
Scottish…TY bro so maby we are trying to fix the DL it wont hurt to have more bodies in camp maby we can find that dimond & prove to the world that mr Davis still has a lil left up there
May 7th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
Well fellas,
That was a very productive 4 hour lunch I just took.
Better go get me shackles back on.
Go Lakers, er, Raiders!!
May 7th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Rob Ryan don’t seem like the type to kiss anyones ass. Could it be him and Al are on the same page? With a little added talent this year, neither will have an excuse if there is a failure.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
lefty 12 Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
Quag-chuckie is the one who got what he wanted-out of Oakland to Florida.he is the one who was going to leave.no way he wanted to be the Raider coach.he used us and AD to get what he wanted.what exactly did AD want that he got?
______________________________________________________
Ever consider the possiblity that Gruden wanted out because of how Al Davis runs this organization and Gruden was simply tired of it? Can you blame the man? Maybe if Al Davis had eased up a bit, Gruden would have been happy being our HC and maybe we would have won the SB instead of TB?
May 7th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
I think the JaMarcus Russell era will bring the Raiders back to glory.
The Gruden/Gannon years were respectable.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
peace kaufman, hayes really good point about al showin kiffen the ropes aka the whip
May 7th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
He’s still McSkinnylegs till he signs the contract then Im on the wagon with the rest of the nation.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
i know one thing i havent been this excited about raider football since the day before the superbowl.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
HayesDaze#37,
Yeah right, all those stories just appeared out of thin air, lol. Get real. The only reason Kiffin is still our HC is because Al couldn’t force him to resign. Al couldn’t stomach the thought of paying 3 head coaches at once.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
When I was growing up, all we counted was Super Bowls wins.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:24 pm
Quag-1st off you really can’t say for sure he is trying to make life miserable for Kiffin.it is possible they mended ways.2nd-why keep the guy if he doesn’t want to be here.the guy could tank the whole season to get even.as far as getting $8million and draft choices for someone who is going to leave at the first oportunity,i say brilliant.someone else would have done it before if they had thought of it.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
You said it Wagon i can barley contain myself to wait till sept 8. I will be the guy in the parking lot as soon as the gates open with the 2 40`s of olde english 800 and a grin from ear 2 ear
May 7th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
i have yet to see the silver and black win in my lifetime im sure it will happen, hopefully we can catch up to those steelers cowboys and niners
May 7th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
Gruden stated that Al gave him a tape of Gannon and asked him to take a look at him. Gruden didnt know much about Gannon before Al brought him up. Its always amazing how the media states that Gruden fought Al for Gannon. Really it was the other way around.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Well, if the injury fairy stays away we could see a whole lot of “potential” players.
Let’s recap -
RB - Fargas (always a risk) / Bush (unhealthy for last two years) / Jordan (Balsa Back)
WR - Walker (2 healthy seasons in career)/ Curry (see Walker)
SLB - Hartwell (Coming off injury run) / Williams (the never ready LB)
DT - Kelly (Coming off blown knee)
DE - Burgess (3 healthy seasons in 10)
RT - Green coming off injury
Other questions -
Rookie QB
No depth at WR if Walker flops
LT
C
Rob Ryan / Al Davis defense scheme
Morrison / Howard - Linebackers or big free safeties who can’t get off blocks or stop the run?
Huff - Free Safety going to save him from bust label?
I’m very curious to see if this team finally is half as good on grass as they are on paper. Five years of this same old rhetoric has me wanting to see some proof.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
kiffens offensive minded, al gave him all he could with walker, and mcfadden
May 7th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
rhodes signed w/ colts
and the queer clayton on espn thinks henry will get an invitation to work out w/ the raiders…. what ya think
May 7th, 2008 at 3:29 pm
Things are going to be Ok. I see three Super Bowl trophies in the next decade, after Davis gets to a retirement home.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:29 pm
Yeah, Al took all those picks from that great trade and gave us:
Phillip Buchanon
Langston Walker
Tyler Brayton
I’d rather have kept Gruden for another year.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
wait did kiffen coach offense or defense at usc?
May 7th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
Town…
Ill be the guy blowin trees with a case of Modelo Negra. but ole E brings back the memories.. see you there
May 7th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
Dakota,i have quit reading anything you say since you stated you couldn’t wait for the Raiders to return to la la land(lol),but maybe we would have won the super bowl if our all-pro center doesn’t go awol and put us at a total disadvantage.maybe not but just maybe.besides,didn’t AD give chuckie control and that’s why we were winning?
May 7th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
jamarcus first black qb since doug to win it
May 7th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
Why not, give Henry a try.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
Kiff was a co o.c at usc with that phil mickelson look alike steve Sarkeisian
May 7th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
thanks thetown appreciate the info
May 7th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
Lefty, we would have won the Super Bowl if Davis had kept Gruden. The only reason the Fuccaneers won was because they had the Raiders playbook.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:34 pm
you can bitch about who we drafted but getting the picks was a great move.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:34 pm
I think JaMarcus will have a great deal to say about whether Kiffin stays of goes. If he wants Kiffin to stay, he stays.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:34 pm
Lefty, AD overruled Kiffin when he clearly wanted him out and for good reason. Secondly, I don’t think Kiffin would tank the season intentionally when his NFL career may very well be on the line. Doing so, could potentially ruin his reputation. If he succeeds it will only increase it amiong league circles, since he was able to butt heads with AD and still succeed. Agreed?
May 7th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
Im with you 408. But my tree time comes at the half right next to cuervo booth by section 200.That has been the spot for years till they started putting under covers in plain clothes to spoil the fun
May 7th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
Hello my friends,…just got a message from my source on the island,…I inquired about Hartwell, health and whatnot,..my mole there says hes 100% and very excited to be a Raider,…that this signing might be the signing to make the difference from a decent defense to a great one,…the signing was urged by D-Hall…anyway, Im off to the river with my trusted dog,..a couple Norcos and a Gatorade bottle filled with Mondavis best,..catch ya all later.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
Lefty, i guess you would rather have draft picks than a Super Bowl trophy.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:37 pm
kiffen coached his ass off last year givin the circumstances, jamarcus not signing, mcknown and culpepper fumbaling, and rob ryan never blitzing
May 7th, 2008 at 3:37 pm
What’s up scumbag?
May 7th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
Albert-we probably would have won if we played anyone but TB.i’m not disagreeing about that.the fact is chuckie didn’t want to be here.and he has proven to be just an average coach in TB.and i can’t buy the fact that he built the raiders and yet every other coach is hindered by ADs moves.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
I liked Gruden but when he made his tough guy face he looks alot like the guy in the movie lets go to prison
May 7th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Coach, nice post as usual.
Look on the bright side, we have upgraded at all these positions.
McCown - Russell - upgrade
Hall - Washington - upgrade
McFadden - Jordan - upgrade
Huff- Wilson - upgrade
Carr - Branch - upgrade
Stu - Huff - upgrade
May 7th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
Quag-i was refering to chuckie tanking not Kiffin.i have more respect for Kiffin than that.Albert-no i’d rather win the SB,but there is no way of knowing we would have won if chuckie would have been forced to stay.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
I will assume thats ment for me Albert?…no prob,..been called worse…hey, sticks and stones may…well you know the rest…dont hate Albert.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
when do we play tampa bay again so we can crush them
May 7th, 2008 at 3:45 pm
Wagon… Last game
May 7th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
Lefty, Gruden is the only coach who was given enough control to be successful. The problem was that he became too popular and a media darling. Davis hates being upstaged. Thats why he let Marcus Allen rot on the bench.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
wagon December 28 this year in Tampon Bay. When Mcfadden takes one to the house i hope he hijacks that pirate ship with the rest of the team.Like real pirates.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Wagon…. Last game, next season.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Albert-i don’t buy that.and that is not why MA was sat down.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
ok so lets all get over are gruden grudges and just spank em on the 28th given to go 9-7 with a possible playoff birth
May 7th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
Why was Allen sat down then?
May 7th, 2008 at 3:52 pm
Albert,..you are wrong on both of your guesses about Gruden and Allen,…dont regurgitate in here what you read in the newspapers and hear on sports talk,…come up with your own theories Albert,…dont be just another dork in here that posts things you have no clue about,..or did Gruden and Marcus both tell you thats what happened?…or did Jim Rome say that to you on his show?…Albert, get a mind of your own.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
cant we all get along and say buck gruden and all raider haters one nation
May 7th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
not sure,but it wasn’t because he was upstaging AD.if that was the case do you think AD would sign all the hall of famers he has(mostly in the past).would he have let Madden coach for 10 years,or Flores?Madden was loved by the media and fans.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:54 pm
Lefty,…school little Albert on all things Raiders please,..hes clueless.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
Who has more rushing yards this season for the Raiders?
A. Justin Fargas
B. Michael Bush
C. Darren McFadden
I’m going with C. - Run DMC
May 7th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
no al davis haters allowed
May 7th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
Riskiest pick: Running back Darren McFadden (Raiders). The Raiders passed up Dorsey, but McFadden has the potential to be a star in the league.
this bs came from adam snivller of nfl network that guys a joke 4 real
May 7th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
Lefty,
Do you really think AD gave Gruden control? No way, if that were the case, Jano would never have been drafted in the 1st round.
You know, for these immature, pampered NFL players it is critical to have a stable environment surrounding them, otherwise you don’t win.
A coach is like a parent, they have to teach and discipline and lead the kid (players). In Oaklnd the players are supposed to listen to the Coach, but there is another parent, Al Davis, that when the kids do not like what one parent is doing, the HC, they can run to big daddy Al and biotch. It is not good parenting to allow your children to run to one parent for relief and it certainly does not work in the NFL.
I don’t know what it was, but in the “Gruden Era” that did not seem to happen. Maybe Al gave Gruden that power, or maybe the players were too scared of Gruden to run behind his back, but whatever caused it, it sure did work. Now in Kiffin’s case, we shall just have to see how the kids respond to the parents fighting.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
im gonna say mcfadden has total yards fargas has rushing yards.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Gotta run,..little Albert, if you still want to know what went down, I will be back later.
May 7th, 2008 at 3:57 pm
also Albert,we drafted this guy Bo Jackson.that had alot to do with Allen being sat down.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
Dakota old buddy,…please do not bring in lessons from you watching Sesame Street all day…or was that the lesson of the day from todays Mr Rogers show?
May 7th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
allen was my guy too..Bo was sick but Allen helped us get a SB bo just helped sell tix
May 7th, 2008 at 4:01 pm
As I can remember it wasn’t so much Bo Jackson that irked Marcus, but Roger Craig & Eric Dickerson at the end of their careers, was too much
May 7th, 2008 at 4:01 pm
who’ll have the most td’s
a: fargas
B bush
c DMC
May 7th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
who’ll have the most (s)td’s
a: fargas
B bush
c DMC
May 7th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
Dakota-no i don’t think al gave chuckie control,that is my point.you are right,for some reason”it” worked when he was coach,but i can’t believe he was given control.and i don’t believe chuckie was the one who signed all the players.now don’t talk to me unless you take back the comment about the Oakland Raiders moving back to la la land!
May 7th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
I will believe Allen and Gruden because they are sane and rational human beings, something that Davis is not. The one percent of the football universe that is Al Davis and his brainwashed lackeys (i.e you guys) are the only ones who believe in Davis anymore. I am not a Davis hater. I would like to the Raiders succeed. Unfortunately, though, I don’t believe he is capable of winning franchise anymore. And yes, I am not privy to Al Davis’ diary. I can only make my opinion based on what experts have said. Which is the same thing all of you are doing. I asked Lefty for a reason Allen was benched. He was unable to give me a reasonable explanation, neither were you Alameda Insider. Like i’m going to listen to the opinions of a racist anyways.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
Tonio
B bush hes gonna be the TD stealer like crocket use to be
May 7th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
Marcus was the Elegant Gentleman Warrior, tough pretty boy, single-handedly carrying the Raiders for years, in LA baby! And Al couldn’t stand it.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
The Raiders should make a run at Chris Henry. Why not?
May 7th, 2008 at 4:05 pm
But Lefty,
I love LA!
LA Kings, LA Lakers, LA Raiders! Yeah baby.
oh, and the Cubs.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:07 pm
people always gotta get personal … chill out folks
May 7th, 2008 at 4:08 pm
agreed 408 … what was it we called down there all the time… 45 blast?
May 7th, 2008 at 4:10 pm
Dakota and Tonio,…hmmm,…I knew it.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:10 pm
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3385956
May 7th, 2008 at 4:11 pm
By the way Dakota, the L.A. Angels of the PCL played at Wrigley Field in South Central L.A. They were the Cubs AAA farm club.
Go L.A. Lakers and the 2011 L.A. Raiders
May 7th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
mcfadden 12 tds bold and beautiful number
May 7th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
Albert-i actually believe we won’t win again until AD steps aside or at least shares the football operations with a”football”person.i just can’t believe that he keeps all his coaches under his thumb,but gave chuckie so much power.it doesn’t make sense.as far as Allen and Davis-they had issues that probably never will be explained.and as far as a RB-i loved Allen.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
Walker, Henry, Curry
-when Walker gets hurt-
Henry, Curry, Carter
with plenty of decent back ups(hopefully) i think we would be set at wr for the 2008 season.
lets roll the dice on henry…
May 7th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
I knew there was a reason I liked the Cubs, thanks Exla.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:13 pm
The Old Wrigley Field was used for the old Home Run Derby T.V. series.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:13 pm
tonio I believe so from the Elephant formation
May 7th, 2008 at 4:13 pm
I’d like to see the 49ers move to LA. Then the Raiders can build a new stadium in San Francisco. They could themselves the California Raiders.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
move there and see how long you love it!
May 7th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Jezus, who are all these morons clamoring for us to sign Chris Henry? Have they seen his rap sheet? Do they know he is about to be suspended by the NFL for at least 1 year?
STFU about Chris Henry!
May 7th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Cole…. you cant be serious the RAIDERS in sf that isnt even funny!
May 7th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Exraidertixguy,…sorry,..the Rams and Raiders both saw enough of L.A.,…they split,..not comin back,…L.A. is a rotten place,..maybe in about 10 years you will get an expansion team,…bfd,..nobody down there will care about that team either,…pro football in L.A. is a thing of the past.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
gotta go-later guys.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Hey Cole….that would be lame.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Dakota,..er I mean Tonio,..or whoever you are,..lol,…hes not going to be suspended,…why not take a shot old buddy?
May 7th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
easy dakota that why it would be a free agent pick up… whats the risk… hit the pipe if your that up tight in a blog
May 7th, 2008 at 4:21 pm
Forget Chris Henry, lets go get Marvin Harrison; that guy has ‘Future Raider’ written all over him.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
yeah chris henry is exactly what we need minus the rap sheet but hey where the raiders hate it or love it dats just what we do, yeah we need a big tall fast athletic reciever if he comes in and has a slip up cut him no big deal
May 7th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
A.I.,
The new L.A. fooball stadium is timed to open when the Raiders lease expires.
http://national-football-league-nfl.suite101.com/article.cfm/los_angeles_back_in_nfl_mix
May 7th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
Allen was benched because we had a guy named Bo Jackson who had more power, was faster, and much quicker. I loved Allen, but Bo ran like no other ever in the game. When Allen pouted, Davis was like tuff shit. Allen should have reconized the situation, Davis should have been more respectful.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
i thought we where talkin bout travis hengry but chris henry is exactly what we need another weapon for jamarcus
May 7th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
sorry al davis but i hope ur ship sinks before i see teh raiders leave oakland
May 7th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
Keep dreamin exraidertixguy,..maybe you should put down a deposit today for tix…lol,…sorry to tell you, but when the A`s leave for Fremont in 3 years the city/county is going to remodel the coliseum for the Raiders…their only tenant…free rent,..all kids of concessions,..Im hearing you guys might get the Vikings down the road though,..hang in there,..but the Raiders and Rams are gone forever.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
Why go out an sign Roger Craig & Eric Dickerson, when you’ve got Marcus Allen on the bench behind Bo Jackson?
May 7th, 2008 at 4:26 pm
6′4” 200 lbs … cant recall any injuries. bitch slap him and put him in line … then give him a jersey
May 7th, 2008 at 4:26 pm
AD will get everything he wanted but was lied to by both the L.A. Coliseum Commission and the authorities in Oakland. Luxury Suites, Modern Stadium, practice facility and more. And he won’t have to deal with the politicians.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:27 pm
maybe they can get the dolphins ha th LA dolphins or just get mike vick and build a team round him
May 7th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
im all for chris henry on the raiders
May 7th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
Food for thought: We need to thank Shana-rat and his Donkeys for giving us Darren MaFadden.
I was thinking about September 8, 2008, and the butt-kicking we’ll be giving Shana-rat and his donkeys on national TV on a Monday nite @ that. Doesn’t get any better.
Ya, when Shanna-rat out smarted us last year by calling a time-out as Seabass (are no pressure kicker) kicked the game winning field goal, he actually was giving us McFadden. Obviously Seabass missed the next kick and we all knew that he would…that was a given. However, little did Shana-rat know that by losing that game we ended up with the 3rd or 4th round pick. Before the coin toss with Atlanta, we all knew we would lose the flip as well. But, nevertheless, we were able to get McFadden at number four and now the future is set.
So thanks to the little rat, from donkeyville, who out smarted himself in the long run, we have an elite running that will give us many options, while indirectly helping JaMarcus as he adapts to the pressures of being an NFL QB.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
tramendous talent
May 7th, 2008 at 4:31 pm
I have been to San Francisco, its a great city. Wish I could live there.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Ya keep thinking that exraidertixman,…if it gets you through another season of no team in L.A thinking a team will return,..keep on thinking that,…but in case you ever want to try reality,…they arent coming back,…been there done that…L.A. sucks bro….if you live there thats no secret to you…I went to about 2 games a year down there,.the tailgating was horrible,..was a lousy atmosphere,…Oakland has the best tailgating in the NFL,…but as I said, if it gets you through the day telling people the Raiders are coming back go for it,..but in the real world, they never will.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
SF is dirty and crazy crowded. The best place to enjoy SF is up on Grizzly Peak in the Berkley and Oakland hills seeing it from a far.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:33 pm
riverside- i award you most optimistic award for that mon. night … way to spin that in our favor
May 7th, 2008 at 4:36 pm
—”The Raiders plan to franchise CB Nnamdi Asomugha again in 2009 if he remains unsigned, according to NFL Network’s Adam Schefter.
And considering the contract they gave DeAngelo Hall, the Raiders may not be able to extend Asomugha anytime soon. He’s worth a whole lot more.
May. 7 - 6:50 p.m. ET”—
May 7th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
You need to examine yourself.
# mcfaddenswagon Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
im all for chris henry on the raiders
May 7th, 2008 at 4:44 pm
“Lets sign Chris Henry! Hey sign up that Chris Henry guy, what is the risk? Chris Henry would be a great addition!”
retards
May 7th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
A.I.
I really don’t care where they play. I left LaLa 14 years ago and moved to the MidWest. I kept my tickets in L.A. and when they moved to Oakland I got tickets there. The tailgaiting was comparable. My ex worked for the airlines and I flew in for every weekend game.
I refused to pay PSL money and gave up my tickets. 10 yrs in L.A. and 3 in Oakland. I am a diehard RAIDER fan. Enjoy them before they move.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Raiders back to L.A?!? I would rather run my tounge over Norv Turners neck. No way no how. Sorry Dakota
May 7th, 2008 at 4:46 pm
no, i would take pacman, chris hengry, marvin harrison, all of dem, even mike vick put them on the raiders
May 7th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Riverside… #720 I like your logic there. Can’t wait for 9/8 in the Black Hole. Raiders 37 Donkeys 13
May 7th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Henry will likely get a lifetime ban seeing how he just got off a 8 game suspension and immediately went banannas on someone last month.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:51 pm
THETOWN Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Raiders back to L.A?!? I would rather run my tounge over Norv Turners neck. No way no how. Sorry Dakota
______________________________________________________
Lol…yuck.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:52 pm
damn you know what would be great play action jevon walker down the middle and jamarcus throws a 70 yard heat seeking missele right on the numbers
May 7th, 2008 at 4:54 pm
who here is going to the opening game?
May 7th, 2008 at 4:54 pm
haha norv turners neck dats disgustin man, i rather floss wit warren sapps chin hair
May 7th, 2008 at 4:55 pm
*phhhaaaaarrrrtttt*
May 7th, 2008 at 4:58 pm
ite mayn done wit work catch yall later raiders baby
May 7th, 2008 at 4:58 pm
Just say NO to Henry. The kid doesn’t get it. How many times has he been busted last 2-3 yrs. 3-4-5 times?
Al/Kiff seem to be bringing in guys with very little or no baggage. Henry has enough bags to fill up the back of Bekins truck. We don’t need that b.s. here.
May 7th, 2008 at 4:58 pm
Dakota, you arent talkin Raiders back to LA again are you ?
May 7th, 2008 at 4:58 pm
Shite, Chris Henry’s rap sheet is so bad, this site will not allow me to post a link, or even copy and paste the info into a post. Just Google Chris Henry and check out his rap sheet, and if you still want him on the Raiders influencing Russell and McFadden, well, I guess you would probably score a 4 on the wonderlic moron.
May 7th, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Mista, I did not bring it up, but I certainly wouldn’t mind seeing a Raiders Lakers double header in LA, lol.
May 7th, 2008 at 5:05 pm
do you guys follow ice hockey…international icehockey?
May 7th, 2008 at 5:05 pm
Dakota…. How many times has Henry been busted, just since being in the NFL.???
May 7th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
or this week?
May 7th, 2008 at 5:09 pm
i said bring him in as a free agent … didn’t say build a team around this model american
we need talent at wr and there he is… i see you didnt hit that pipe i recommended
May 7th, 2008 at 5:13 pm
J Money 2…I am a little on edge tonight, big Lakers game coming up…
May 7th, 2008 at 5:15 pm
LMN… I used to play ice hockey, when I was a youngster. ahhh that was a looong time ago. Great game, legal assault & battery, could really get your frustrations out.
Still watch some NHL when I can. Stanley Cup play-offs rock.
May 7th, 2008 at 5:15 pm
got ya… no harm
May 7th, 2008 at 5:15 pm
To bring in a out of shape stone handed Mike williams is one thing.Not much risk there. Cut him lose and thats the end of it. But with the NFL considering taking away draft picks and fineing teams for the players off the field behaivor it just makes no sense.LMN i follow the NHL. Sharks fan. heart break city!
May 7th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
Dakota.. Raider/Laker fan since 67-68. Lakers in 5 over Pepper lake
May 7th, 2008 at 5:21 pm
I hope so 909.
May 7th, 2008 at 5:22 pm
Agreed 909 the Jazz are not much of a threat 2 the lakeshow. But if the Hornets close out the buttplugs from S.A Them and the lakes should be one hell of a series
May 7th, 2008 at 5:24 pm
754 , dumb
May 7th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
Scottish Raider: post #387:
I agree with you on all your points. I’m sure most of us on this site do. However, you left off, in my opinion, the biggest reason why the discharges should drop this year and that is Norv Turner. He’s like the Peter Principal, where one rises to his level of ignorance. Norv was ok as a OC at Dallas, but he’s out of his league as a head-coach. Among other glaring faults, he can’t communicate with his players on an eye-ball-to-eye-ball level. He uses his other coaches to do that. He’s a loser and he’ll continue to bring the discharges down, and that’s fabulous for us.
May 7th, 2008 at 5:27 pm
Those pesky Hornets are no joke. Will give the Lakers all they can handle if they hook up.
Take care all, gotta check outta here..
May 7th, 2008 at 5:28 pm
909,
In less than 2.5 years, Chris Henry has accumulated:
3 convictions (including gun related charges)
2 violations of NFL Substance abuse policy
1 pending criminal matter
several other events that he beat out, one on a technicality with a breathalizer not working properly, and some other assults he beat out.
Not to mention his problems in college…real class act.
May 7th, 2008 at 5:31 pm
breathalyzer…
assaults…
me cant spel too guud.
May 7th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
I don’t think JaMarcus needs a personality like Henry and neither does Kiffin
May 7th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
Chris Henry is exactly opposite the veteran leadership that this team needs. He won’t even make it through his next suspension without getting into trouble again.
The team that signs him will be entrusting him to keep himself in-shape for the next year or so…and then, when he comes back, they’ll have to trust he hasn’t lost that “edge” that he has right now.
Chris Henry is as big a risk as the idiot Pacman, and what he’ll bring is nothing but ultimate sorrow to the team that signs him.
But, he sure knows how to party with the youngsters! Hmmm, I can see McFadden’s 21st birthday party already…
May 7th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Oh my gawd, Chris Henry in the same lockerroom with Darren McFadden, no good.
May 7th, 2008 at 5:39 pm
In Oakland!, oh my gawd
May 7th, 2008 at 5:40 pm
Just party, baby
May 7th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
January 25, 2007 - Henry pleaded guilty to charges of providing alcohol to minors, an incident that occurred at a hotel in the spring on 2006. He was sentenced to 90 days in jail, with all but two of those days being suspended.
Mcfadden could dig that!
May 7th, 2008 at 5:44 pm
KoolKell…
good point =)
May 7th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
Chris Henry?
This is a new low for this board.
May 7th, 2008 at 6:04 pm
Exla & A.I. — Tell the truth…the surrounding areas of both venues suck in their own special way.
L.A. blew it with their NFL teams, and despite all the people who claim to be ambivalent about its return there, there are plenty who will bring it back. But, it’ll be in a better situation, surrounded by cleaner, safer streets, shops and restaurants. Until that happens, no NFL for you!
As for Oakland — they’ve almost entirely missed the boat on making the area around the Coliseum an improved area. The stuff closer to the airport sure is nice, but come over the freeway and fix a few things.
The collapsing fences, barbed-wire, shuttered buildings, lack of quality hotels, restaurants and services within walking distance, and so on…..L.A. or Oakland, the areas around the stadiums seem to have a similar appeal.
That said — Oakland’s tailgates are a lot more old-school Raiders fans than the majority of the L.A. crowd ever could be.
The crowded Oakland parking lot makes it a lot more, um, intimate, too. Lots less fights, though. Hmmm.
May 7th, 2008 at 6:58 pm
From Gruden´s book:
“Jeff George had an option in his contract after the ’98 season, and we didn’t pick it up, thus allowing him to become a free agent.
There were a couple of other free-agent quarterbacks available whom we were interested in—Rich Gannon, who had been with the Chiefs, and Trent Green, who had been with the Redskins.
Gannon was thirty-three years old and had kind of bounced around the league.
But he had played well against the Raiders, and Al Davis and Bruce Allen wanted me to take a look at him.”
May 7th, 2008 at 7:01 pm
Bob I think there is only one person in here who thinks that everyone but Al Davis is responsible for the Raiders success. He has been refuted and humiliated so many times, it’s countless. His name is Mo. Mo Ron.
May 7th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
nobody following the icehockey world cup in canada?
May 7th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
Sweden got their ass kicked =)
May 7th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
Hey glenn…what´s up
May 7th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
Life is good Bob. How goes it????
May 7th, 2008 at 7:15 pm
Oakglenn, it´s ok…..but I must say find you lack of faith in JLH disturbing haha. I don´t get why Tim Dwight got on the field, that should have been JLH´s time to learn.
May 7th, 2008 at 7:27 pm
hey oak u around?
May 7th, 2008 at 7:31 pm
heh u think tim dwight will even be on ink in two months?…rofl
May 7th, 2008 at 7:36 pm
kobe getting th mvp trophy
May 7th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
kiodbe byeera,,nst MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMVVVVVVVVvvPPPPPPPP
May 7th, 2008 at 8:19 pm
hello nation.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:22 pm
I thought JLH plain sucked this year and looked scared…but that doesn’t mean he can’t get better. Maybe something clicks for him this year and he takes it up a level. NFL sophs can make dramatic leaps at times.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:24 pm
Kobe…MVMe
Chris Paul is the epitome of MVP
May 7th, 2008 at 8:24 pm
kiffin made some mistakes last year, he was too conservative with passing but i dont know if i can blame him with QBs we had, didnt give JLH or Walter chances,TD is old our season was done we should have used JLH instead of Tim D, JR should have started sooner.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:26 pm
JJ, right on. If JLH and Holland both step-up, shallow WR corps will be OK.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:27 pm
but he was a rookie, now he has no more excuses. he has a good offense, or maybe just 1 , he can blame RR again.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:30 pm
you dont need so many WRs to do great on offense, or super stars, look at the pats,they won 3 SB, without having great WR, and last year they got thier super stars and didnt win. look at the chargers and Jags both made the plaoffs without studs WRs.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:31 pm
I have to disagree Raider O. JLH got a few chances and never shined and actually made more then a few negative plays. If all he is going to do is fail, why play him? Let him learn a little on the side and put someone in (TDwight was at least serviceable) who can help the team win. Hopefully JLH shows some improvement and earns some time on the field in ‘09.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
all we need is a good running game, good deffense,smart QB, and a good TE with ok WRs and we can win.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:35 pm
And this lamp. And this stapler. And my dog…
May 7th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
JJ, rookie WRs dont have great rookie seasons normaly, there is DB and some others but thats not the norm. you learn from the field. now if we were having a good season i would agree with you, but since it was a lost season i think he should have seen the field more, at least to stretch it cause he has speed.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:38 pm
Higgins was known for his work ethic in college and in high school. He came early and stayed late.
He will improve. 1 year does not make or break a player.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:39 pm
a lot of teams the won SBs didnt have great WRs.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:40 pm
deffense, and smart QBs win SBs not WRs.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
K, JLH had 82 catches his senior year at UTEP.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
I understand your logic O, but maybe Kif just thought JLH was that bad…I know I did, ha.
Let us both just hope that JLH steps it up this year. More pre-season JLH and less scared as hell JLH from the reg season.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
i agree with you Rock, i think he’ll be ok and he is going to make the team as PR and backup WR.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
i hope so too.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:45 pm
i think JR will make everyone look better with his cannon arm and his smarts.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
i look for 4 people to have a good season, Miller, Fargas,DMAC, and Kwame H.
May 7th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
if that happens our offense will be just fine.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:01 pm
Raider O, we’re not going to run the football. We’re back to playing Raider football. And you know what that means. It means running the ball 20 times a game, losing, and scapegoating the coaching staff.
Don’t bother responding.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
Raider O Says:
i think JR will make everyone look better with his cannon arm and his smarts.
Cannon arm yes … smarts I don’t think so … he would have showed up time in camp if he was smart.
The only way the Raiders can win 10 games is if he keeps his mistakes down. I can’t see him throwing more than 25 passes a game. Kiffin will not put the game in his hands … no pressure take few risks … you know like the Steelers brought along Big Ben … use the running game alot keep the defense honest and throw the low risk passes.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:17 pm
Art, its no bother at all, we were 6th in rushing last year, i do agree that AL like to go deep, and keep on passing, but he drafted DMAC, and we still have fargas and bush, that means 2 things our running game is improved and with 7 and 8 man fronts we can PA and go deep wich AL loves to do.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:21 pm
Raideralex, you’re aware that JR couldn’t show up to camp without an NFL contract right ?
You’re also aware that his agent was negotiating his contract and JR was a victim of the process that is the horrible non cap for rookies.
Im sure you know also that the sticking point was a Bronco player that had guaranteed money during a holdout or something of that nature that caused AL to stick to his guns on JR’s contract.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
99, atleast we agree on 1 thing the cannon arm, now why blame JR and not AD for that, the kidd wanted to get paid, IMO if i was going to label that i’ll call it GREED. Smarts is showing up early this year and work with his coaches.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
and yes, they should bring him along like big ben, that was a great job by coaching, just great.and we do have the RBs to take the load off of him.
May 7th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
Raider O, that was with Kiffin calling the plays. Don’t pull red herrings on Art Shell’s Hat. They’re the size of softballs and I hit them right out of the park. Kiffin is on a shelf, and James Lofton and Greg Knapp will be calling the plays this season. That means we’re back to playing Raider football.
Don’t bother responding. Leave me alone. I will not stand for any of the low brow ad hominem which permeates this rat’s nest.
Goodnight.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:00 pm
Edgerton Hartwell
2008 Scouting Report - Scouts Inc.
Grade: 73 | Key
Alert: D (Durability)
Comment: Hartwell is an experienced starting middle linebacker who has struggled to stay healthy over the last few seasons. However, he has been a productive player when healthy. He played mainly in the Falcons’ regular defensive personnel groupings and came off the field in sub situations. He is an above-average functional athlete with pretty good straight-line speed for the MLB position. He is a competitive player with good toughness. He displays good instincts while reacting to blocking patterns. He is an aggressive, downhill player when taking on blocks. He has the functional play strength to two-gap or play out on the edge of blockers. He does not stay blocked long. However, he does struggle to change direction and is not real nifty in the box when avoiding blockers. He has above-average sideline-to-sideline range in open space. He plays under control and is a good physical wrap-up tackler. He is a functional player in space off his zone drops. He plays with good awareness and looks to re-route underneath crossing routes. However, he has limitations when matched up in short area man-to-man situations versus either a running back or tight end. He is an effective blitzer when timing up zone dogs. Overall, Hartwell is a productive starting MLB when healthy who has good value as a first- and second-down player against the run. However, durability is a major concern at this point in his career.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:01 pm
Davis only drafted J Russ to show up Kiffin. The power struggle began then and there.
Don’t bother responding.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
yawn…. it friday yet ?
mini camp just 2 days away !
May 7th, 2008 at 10:09 pm
I agree, Linds. It’s one game we can’t lose.
Goodnight.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:22 pm
JR was drafted because he was the best QB prospect since PM.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:26 pm
cannon arm, 70% completions,deep ball accuracy, great TD-INT ratio, size and mobility.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:29 pm
thats why we drafted him, and AD does not like drafting QBs, but this guy had so much potential, it was hard to pass him up.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:54 pm
That’s the first time I ever heard that ‘Gruden the Great’ didn’t bring in Gannon I always thought ‘Gruden the genius’ discovered Gannon taught him the game and made an MVP out of him.
Funny how facts screw up a bunch of lies and make believe stories.
So it was actually Al Davis who introduced Gannon to the Great Gruden. Especially with his average arm that the media would have you believe there is NO WAY, Al Davis could possibly have any interest in.
So I guess it WAS Al Davis who was largely responsible for biulding that team.
Who would’ve thunk it??
I just wonder if when we start to dominate again who they’ll want to give the credit this time???
KoolKell, what do ya’ think??? Lane Kiffin maybe??
yeah!! I guess you’re right, 80 year old Al couldn’t possibly have anything to do with it. The walker would cloud his vision. yeah!!……..you’re right
May 7th, 2008 at 10:56 pm
# Raider O Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 10:26 pm
cannon arm, 70% completions,deep ball accuracy, great TD-INT ratio, size and mobility.
….
All useless vs. the modern day NFL zone schemes. This isn’t high school, Raider O.
Stop wasting my time. Your optimism makes my ass itch.
May 7th, 2008 at 10:57 pm
Russell gets hurt midway through the season, and nearly breaks the single season INT record before that point. Watch.
And leave me alone.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:00 pm
BHP, does Gruden get credit for anything? If so, what?
As soon as you answer that, do not bother me again.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:06 pm
Art Shell’s Hat Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 10:56 pm
All useless vs. the modern day NFL zone schemes. This isn’t high school, Raider O.
he did that in college not high school, in the SEC.
so what does a QB need in this modern day NFL zone scheme?
May 7th, 2008 at 11:11 pm
arm strenght: useless
accuracy: useless
mobility: useless
everything is useless, the HBs are useless,the QB is useless, coaching is useless. nothing works against moden day NFL zone schemes.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:13 pm
Answer it yourself, your the only one That makes to you, so talk to yourself and leave the rest of the objective people alone.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:14 pm
DAMN THE MODERN DAY NFL ZONE SCHEMES, THERE IS NO HOPE, IT’S ALL USELESS.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:18 pm
Blackholepriest Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 11:13 pm
your the only one That makes to you
what does that mean? get off the drugs man.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:20 pm
BHP,sorry, really sorry, i thought you talking to me. i’m such an idiot, im sorry.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:24 pm
No prob’ O
May 7th, 2008 at 11:24 pm
BHP, i hope there are no hard feelings, agaim i’m so sorry man, i really feel like an idiot.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:31 pm
Raider O, I’ve done the same thing a few times so it’s cool really.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:40 pm
Raider O Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
99, atleast we agree on 1 thing the cannon arm, now why blame JR and not AD for that, the kidd wanted to get paid, IMO if i was going to label that i’ll call it GREED. Smarts is showing up early this year and work with his coaches.
Here’s the problem with putting the blame on AD … AD OVER PAYS players doesn’t he? Everyone laughs at the Raiders for over paying players … so why are you blaming AD for JR’s holdout. How much money does JR want … he got a better contract than LT and he didn’t even play a down.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:41 pm
thx for understanding.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:46 pm
i’m not blaming AD,or JR, hold outs over contracts happen all the time,but that has nothing to do with smartness. and with AD over paying players, sometimes you have to over pay to get the player you want, specialy when you have been loosing, players rather go to a winning team.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:52 pm
we didnt over pay burgess, cause he wasnt indemand, but some players like gibril, walker, and kelly had other options, so we had to over pay. now IMO gibri wasnt over paid, look at ss williams from the bengals to the vikings, 6 yrs 33 mil. corey redding last year from the lions gotta a 6 yr 47 mil and he is no better than tommy, so the only player we over paid for was walker.
May 7th, 2008 at 11:57 pm
Tommy is probably overpaid, too, but I agree Javon Walker is the toughest of all the contracts to accept.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:43 am
# Raider O Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 11:14 pm
DAMN THE MODERN DAY NFL ZONE SCHEMES, THERE IS NO HOPE, IT’S ALL USELESS.
…..
With a quarterback whose sole talent is throwing the ball deep, there is no hope. That’s correct. Mock me now. Because believe me, I’ll be in here mocking you when we hit our 9th loss, in November.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:48 am
Today’s most retarded post, by far:
# Blackholepriest Says:
May 7th, 2008 at 10:54 pm
That’s the first time I ever heard that ‘Gruden the Great’ didn’t bring in Gannon I always thought ‘Gruden the genius’ discovered Gannon taught him the game and made an MVP out of him.
Funny how facts screw up a bunch of lies and make believe stories.
So it was actually Al Davis who introduced Gannon to the Great Gruden. Especially with his average arm that the media would have you believe there is NO WAY, Al Davis could possibly have any interest in.
So I guess it WAS Al Davis who was largely responsible for biulding that team.
Who would’ve thunk it??
I just wonder if when we start to dominate again who they’ll want to give the credit this time???
KoolKell, what do ya’ think??? Lane Kiffin maybe??
yeah!! I guess you’re right, 80 year old Al couldn’t possibly have anything to do with it. The walker would cloud his vision. yeah!!……..you’re right
May 8th, 2008 at 3:03 am
Rob Carpenter has made 29 tackles in two years. You want to give up a 2nd rounder for him?
Put down the play station controls, step back from the computer screen…
May 8th, 2008 at 4:20 am
2008 Russel 2800 yrds, 18 TD, 18 INT Record 8-8
May 8th, 2008 at 4:27 am
Raider O…
Keep up the spirit =)
May 8th, 2008 at 6:55 am
Good Morning Raider Nation!
Lakers Win!
Go Raiders, Go Lakers.
May 8th, 2008 at 7:16 am
Rhoades signed a one year deal with the colts, money not disclosed. Just an FYI
May 8th, 2008 at 7:23 am
do you suppose Raiderhed will stealth gig San Fran again in August? dvd from the last one is pretty humorous.
“Raaaaider fans are in your face…I love it when we’re in first place”
May 8th, 2008 at 7:49 am
Rhoade$ signed for minimum $625,000.
May 8th, 2008 at 7:50 am
Said he knows he’s a backup and will do the best with the reps he gets.
May 8th, 2008 at 8:25 am
I really want him to get his butt in a sling over all this;
http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/nfl?cnn=yes
May 8th, 2008 at 8:36 am
McClown thinks he will win the starting QB position with the phish.
http://www.miamiherald.com/616/story/525218.html
May 8th, 2008 at 8:37 am
Morning NATION…. what’s the topic since Jerry hasnt posted any thin new?
May 8th, 2008 at 8:38 am
n one quick move, 14 months of constant frustration gave way to sweet anticipation for Dominic Rhodes. The veteran free agent running back agreed to a one-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts on Wednesday worth approximately $650,000, reuniting him with the team that gave him his first NFL break, and one he helped lead to a Super Bowl championship. He said he understands that Joseph Addai is the central figure in the Colts’ ground game, and he’s looking forward to challenging Kenton Keith and rookie Mike Hart for the backup role.
Indianapolis Star
May 8th, 2008 at 8:38 am
Meanderings - I don’t think there is anything concrete.
May 8th, 2008 at 8:56 am
BHP,
You’re reporting Al Davis fired Jeff George in order to bring in Rich Gannon? Sorry, I hadn’t heard that version of history.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:04 am
Sam Adams is dead set on not letting it all end the way it did last season.
Adams, who’ll turn 35 next month, is working out with intentions of signing with an NFL team and prolonging his NFL career. Adams, a first-round pick of Seattle’s in 1994 who has played for six NFL teams, was cut by Denver last December. The three-time Pro Bowl player and a Super Bowl champion with Baltimore wants another crack.
“I don’t want it to end like that,” Adams said, “I have more football in me. I can help a lot of teams.”
Adams said he played at 355 pounds last season. He said he is down to 340 pounds and plans on playing this season in the 320s.Perhaps teams such as Tennessee, Oakland or Seattle would be interested in Adams.
“I can still dominate,” Adams said.”That’s what I plan on doing.”
If he comes cheap sign him up
May 8th, 2008 at 9:06 am
KoolK… thats the rumor I always thought Gannon was a chukie guy? Go Figure
May 8th, 2008 at 9:08 am
JERRY MAC…
No partying tonight…Get a good nights sleep, wake up early, have a hearty breakfast…and get down to Alameda…Asap…
Get us some interviews, breakdown of players and keep us updated…Don’t let the other media hacks out work you!! Do your thang Jer…
May 8th, 2008 at 9:10 am
Laker rule!
May 8th, 2008 at 9:10 am
JERRY MAC…
Get an update on Michael Bush…
May 8th, 2008 at 9:13 am
I couldnt ad the link so here’s the get down.
In the late 1960s, a decade before Al Davis would take football away from the city of Oakland, he along with then owner Wayne Valley saved football in Oakland. As the American Football League was negotiating its merger with the National Football League the San Francisco 49ers tried to bribe or force the Oakland Raiders out of the Bay Area market. Davis and Valley stood fast, and the Raiders entered the NFL as the Oakland Raiders.
The following is an excerpt from the book Slick:The Silver and Black Life of Al Davis by Mark Ribowsky
(Al) Davis wasn’t through there, either–and, as became apparent to (Wayne) Valley, Al’s help was invaluable to the very continuance of the Oakland Raiders. Goaded by the 49ers, NFL draftsmen had included in the merger agreement sixteen unconscionable demands of the Raider franchise. Some of these were the right to oversee Raider schedules to avoid head-to0head competition, control over which NFL teams the Raiders would now play, and some 49ers games to be played at the Coliseum. Apparently, the 49ers–and the NFL–meant for these interdictions to force the Raiders out of the Bay Area.
“The NFL had come to me before that, through a liaison, about the possibility of convincing the Raiders to move to Seattle,” George Ross recalled. “They were using the 49ers’ share of the indemnity as a bribe–they’d give it up if the Raiders moved. I said go to hell. And then, right at the end of the merger, the 49ers went to the NFL with the same idea, to get the territory for themselves.”
Valley, Davis, and Sonny Werblin, standing firm, scared the NFL out of holding on to the demands.
That was a pretty drastic move on the part of the Niners, trying to exert their control over the Raider franchise, especially considering at that time the Raiders were a highly successful franchise, and the Niners not so much. Granted, the Niners likely never expected to get that control, instead were pushing for the Raiders to play elsewhere.
Had they been successful, the NFL landscape would look much different. For one thing, the success of the Raiders’ years of domination can be attributed to the special synergy between the Raiders and their fans in the East Bay. The Seahawks would have never come into being.
Ultimately, the reward that Wayne Valley gave Al Davis for his aid in preserving the Raiders during this tumultuous time-partial ownership of the team-would ultimately be Valley’s undoing as owner of the Raiders.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:15 am
KoolKell..
From Gruden´s book:
“Jeff George had an option in his contract after the ’98 season, and we didn’t pick it up, thus allowing him to become a free agent.
There were a couple of other free-agent quarterbacks available whom we were interested in—Rich Gannon, who had been with the Chiefs, and Trent Green, who had been with the Redskins.
Gannon was thirty-three years old and had kind of bounced around the league.
But he had played well against the Raiders, and Al Davis and Bruce Allen wanted me to take a look at him.”
May 8th, 2008 at 9:22 am
Gannon was a classic Al Davis move, taking the Chefs best QB made Gruden into a winner instead of 8-8 year after year, just like what JR will do for Kiffin, and Kiffin definately wanted Russell just like he wanted McFadden. Some of you rumor mongers should get off the meth so you can see through the misinformation. Kiffin can run his west coast style offense and still throw deep because JR can make all the throws, especially the short stuff and he can scramble. He’ll look just like McNair with the play action, roll to the left or to the right and find a target, short or deep. Ask Quinn, he got to see it first hand in the Sugar Bowl, and he will be watching from the bench again this year as Russell developes into an elite NFL quarterback.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:25 am
Free Tibet
May 8th, 2008 at 9:27 am
850
I agree bring in Adams and give him a look.
854
Bush is healthy his leg is healed 100% he hasnt played football in 2 years. We known this for a year now!
May 8th, 2008 at 9:27 am
Filet o’ Fish Says:
May 8th, 2008 at 9:17 am
Sweet….We got a RAPIST as a MVP….Go NBA!!!!
____________________________________________________
R. Kelly was named MVP?
May 8th, 2008 at 9:30 am
Dakota,
The Mailman already set the parameters of that award a decade ago.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:32 am
No Roger Clemmons is the MVP.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:35 am
M,
Sorry, I am not picking up what you are laying down in this post:
M Says:
May 8th, 2008 at 9:30 am
Dakota,
The Mailman already set the parameters of that award a decade ago.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:35 am
Ain’t the world of sports filled with admirable souls?
When Dave travelled throught the monolith to the other side in 2001, had he glimpsed the sports universe rather than a celestial one his quote may have , “My God, it’s full of scum!”
May 8th, 2008 at 9:38 am
I agree with the Sam Adams talk. If he’s serious about what he says it would be a good pickup. He could play part-time at least. He was a great player for a long time and it sounds like he’s determined to finish his career in a way he can be proud of.
Of course, you’ve gotta check him out and see if he can still go, but I don’t think he’d cost much at all and is worth a gamble.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:38 am
(H)AL DAVIS: I know I’ve made some very poor decisions recently, but I can give you my complete assurance that my work will be back to normal. I’ve still got the greatest enthusiasm and confidence in the mission. And I want to help you.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:39 am
Dakota,
there is a young man trying to win a spot on the Buffalo Bills roster this offseason. He is 24 years of age. His mother is 37 years of age. Karl Malone is his father and no Karl wasn’t 13 when he sired him. He was in college.
Marcus Thompson did a spot on it over the weekend in the Oaktown paper.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:40 am
Sign Grady, Sign Sam, sign anyone as an insurance policy against Turd.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:43 am
M,
Wow, how did I miss that story? Crazy. I knew he had some illegits, but I didn’t know that one of the mothers was 13!
Karl’s mantra: Grass on the, errr…court, play ball? Why the heck not.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:43 am
I think its time for a new post Jerry. These guys are starting to go stupid discussing the same things.
May 8th, 2008 at 9:59 am
?????? for anyone
-since there isnt a new post leading into our minicamp tomorrow… i was wondering if anyone had the complete list of players allowed to attend raiders camp this weekend?
May 8th, 2008 at 10:01 am
Karl Malone tells his son who he just met…
http://deadspin.com/384616/karl-malones-son-is-no-son-of-his
May 8th, 2008 at 10:15 am
This is scary. Funny, but scary.
http://www.serioussportsnewsnetwork.com/2008/05/raiders-determined-not-to-let-mcfadden-interfere-with-2009-draft-plans.html
May 8th, 2008 at 10:18 am
Both Washington and Rhodes down the Raiders after leaving.
Both have discussed the choas that is Al Davis.
Sad. Just sad.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:19 am
Malone was always an A-hole.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:23 am
The NFL should punish Bellichik by making him coach the Raiders.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:27 am
BHP, Bob Marley, alrighty then, thanks for straighting me out on that. I was under the impression Gruden wanted George out ( I still assume that’s true, no?) and made Al understand the wisdom of acquiring Gannon.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:30 am
Hey Dakota,
Why don’t more teams play the Triangle?
May 8th, 2008 at 10:38 am
Please Jerry! Post something about football!
May 8th, 2008 at 10:39 am
I just wish we could vote Al Davis out as general manager.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:40 am
Maybe we could Suge Knight to hold Davis out the window and force him to sign over the team to Mark Cuban.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:45 am
The best thing the NFL can do is quit rigging the refs against the Raiders so Al can get his 2 more Superbowl wins and retire. He would only need 1 more win if not for the Snow Job called The Tuck Rule.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:45 am
Has anybody ever seen Al Davis’s son?
May 8th, 2008 at 10:47 am
Davis would have had one of his Super Bowls if he hadn’t traded Gruden away.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:49 am
Gruden gets credit for loosing to Baltimore at home too.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:49 am
Mcain will beat himself… (see his vote on banning waterboarding…lol..)
May 8th, 2008 at 10:51 am
Cole Ford Says:
Davis would have had one of his Super Bowls if he hadn’t traded Gruden away.
—————————————————
We, including Big AL have 3 Super Bowls and Gruden wanted out mainly due to the desire for more money.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:54 am
You don’t have crap Big Al’s Goon. Those 3 trophies belong to Davis. Gruden has the 4th one in Tampa Bay.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:55 am
Eyepatch
you must take anything from infowars with a grain of salt, as with any news media, big or small, left or right. I have found they actually leave out alot of stuff in articles to sway to their side , just as all media outlets do. Beware.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:56 am
That seems like a real reputable source there Eyepatch.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:58 am
Whatever, they have links go read the info for yourself. Why not just grow the food and give it away, taxing americans to feed the rest of the world is immoral and ciminal, making money off famine, sounds like The Omen Part 3.
May 8th, 2008 at 10:59 am
A senate bill is not a reputable source?
May 8th, 2008 at 11:04 am
What are you talking about Big Al’s Goon? I think you need to read a little closer.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:04 am
Eyepatch,
I have read infowars articles for over 7 years, I have also read stories from other media outlets on the same subjects. Like I said , they all need to be taken with a grain of salt. They do have some very informative material, but like all media, it tends to be spun towards their POV.
GO RAIDERS!
May 8th, 2008 at 11:05 am
You guys in Oakland are letting police search homes without warrants correct? The crimes will escalate when you end up like Whashington D.C. and you can throw a roll of toilet paper at the intruder in your childs bedroom.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:05 am
sorry.. i just had to vent, it was my 2 cents on the matter =)
May 8th, 2008 at 11:10 am
…. next after “Rader Nation Political Review”,
Jamarcus-Boom or Bust?
RUNDMC-Next coming of Marcus?
Do the Raiders have a run D?
stay tuned it’s all coming up next…..
May 8th, 2008 at 11:13 am
Cole Ford says:
What are you talking about Big Al’s Goon? I think you need to read a little closer.
—————————————————-
I’m talking facts concerning the Raiders. Your talking smack about the Raiders sneaking in cheap shots about the team. I don’t need to read any closer than to see that you got a little of that stuff stuck up in ya…..Raider hate. 3 rings baby, working on #4.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:16 am
Coming this Summer, “Raiders of the Lost Trophy”. Watch the swashbuckling Al Davis try and retrieve the fourth Super Bowl trophy which disappeared from his grasp somewhere in the swamps of South Florida.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:20 am
prop.215 was the first time I ever voted
May 8th, 2008 at 11:23 am
Is this a football and sports blog? A RAIDERS forum???
May 8th, 2008 at 11:24 am
Cole Ford says:
Coming this Summer, “Raiders of the Lost Trophy”. Watch the swashbuckling Al Davis try and retrieve the fourth Super Bowl trophy which disappeared from his grasp somewhere in the swamps of South Florida.
——————————————————
Wow!! The level of Raider Hate has reached new proportions. Bad movies, Big AL’s Indiana Jones and we’re still getting hazed about the 2002-2003 Super Bowl. Wow!! Raider Hater is that all you got? You can do better than that, right?
May 8th, 2008 at 11:26 am
We get to see the rookies tomarrow!!!!!!! I hope jerry’s on top of his game like durring the draft!!! GO JERRY BRING US THE INFO WE CRAVE GOOD OR BAD WE CAN TAKE IT!!!!!
May 8th, 2008 at 11:26 am
I am not a Raider hater. I love the team. But the fact is, it doesn’t take much to make fun of this team. It almost takes care of itself.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:27 am
Arguments started going awry last night, when Art Shell’s Hat was arguing with himself, without even realizing it. That was pretty funny.
Then the MVMe Kobe stuff. Now, which candidate will help or hurt the most.
Puh-leeeze get back to Raiders stuff.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:28 am
Should have been Chris Paul.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:29 am
Big AL stop feeding the troll
May 8th, 2008 at 11:29 am
Lets give three cheers for Obama, Chris Paul, and Mark Cuban buying the Raiders.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:33 am
Anybody who thinks Al Davis is too involved in daily operations — what do you think Cuban’s like? He’s an egotistical meddler, who instead of avoids the camera, seeks it out like Britney.
Mark Cuban for Al Davis? Gag.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:34 am
I was real fast.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:36 am
He is perfect. He is a younger version of Al Davis. Since he is not a football man, he will delegate football operations to someone who knows what they are doing. You know Raider Nation would love the guy. He would be down there in the Black Hole with face paint on.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:37 am
Yo, I’m out bros. Check you later Big Al.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:38 am
I was faster.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:39 am
Alright, I will talk to you men later. I have to finish a paper on Roman literature.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:39 am
Kobe-Kobe-Kobe-Kobe-Kobe-Kobe
Go Lakers!
May 8th, 2008 at 11:40 am
“If” your really not a Raider Hater then why make fun of the team you supposedly support? Don’t we have enough fans from other teams making fun of the Raiders at every opportunity? Don’t we have enough to deal with, with even the Raider hating media spinning stories, fabricating stories and just straight-up lying on the team and owner? No, I don’t agree with everything that has gone on and continues to happen with the team, but I’m not gonna act cowardly and start bashing my team. I guess if you were a Saints, Browns, Bills, Eagles, Benegals, Chargers, Falcons, Titans, or a Cardinal fan you’d be on suicide watch right now. LOL!! Now that’s funny!!
May 8th, 2008 at 11:41 am
I was robbed. Oh well, its ok. We are going to sweep the Lakers anyways.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:43 am
Tonio Says:
May 8th, 2008 at 10:49 am
Mcain will beat himself… (see his vote on banning waterboarding…lol..)
_____________________________________________________
Please, do you really think the majority of Americans have been so wussified by the left that they are going to hold McCain voting against the bill banning waterboarding against him?
Waterboarding, are you shitting me? What, are we supposed to gently ask our enemies to provide us with intel? Maybe take them for a pedicure and hope they switch sides?
CIA agent, “Were are you holding the missing Marine?” Enemy combatant, “Go f@#k yourself you American swine!” CIA agent, “Will you tell us where the missing Marine is if we take you to Starbucks and buy you a latte? Enemy combatant, “Make it a triple latte and get me a pair of Levis and I will tell you everything!”
Waterboarding is not exactly the Spanish Inquisition you wussies. Jeez, what the hell has become of this country?
May 8th, 2008 at 11:43 am
If I was a Saints, Browns, Bills, Eagles, Chargers, or Titans fan, I wouldn’t have much to mock. At least those teams resemble competent football teams. I would put the Raiders in the same category as the Bengals, Cardinals, and Falcons.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:44 am
L.A. vs N.O. will be a great series.
May 8th, 2008 at 11:45 am
Do you live in China, Dakota?
May 8th, 2008 at 11:48 am
This site has some pictures of Al’s son, Mark Davis:
http://www.wireimage.com/GalleryListing.asp?navtyp=CLB&str=54645&styp=clbi&nm=Al%20Davis&nbc1=1
May 8th, 2008 at 11:49 am
What does China have to do with waterboarding?
May 8th, 2008 at 11:55 am
美國人在變成見鬼的貓和無價值的東西！
May 8th, 2008 at 11:57 am
Cole. Cole?!
Those teams you mention have a long legacy of failure, with no hope of ever matching the lore of the Raiders.
You date yourself, and dilute your own arguments, with your near-sighted views of one of the most historic franchises in sports history.
A relatively few truly disastrous years — among 45-years or so of legendary AFL/NFL history — do not diminish the great Raiders legacy.
Cole, re-read what you wrote in #918 and re-think it (if you thought about that post at all before writing it).
May 8th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
Because, Dakota, the last time I checked, the United States of America is not supposed to be engaging in torture. I just though you might live in China because they like to do that sort of thing.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:02 pm
That is not Davis’ son, that is Brett Favre.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Cole Ford = troll
May 8th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
DOUBLE STANDARDS:
Former Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh sent the NFL eight videotapes (if you believe they’re were only eight, get your head examined, idiot) that show New England violated league rules by recording opposing coaches’ play-calling signals. But, the video did not include the Rams’ walk-through before the 2002 Super bowl. (If you think there wasn’t a video on that, then you’re really out there in la-la-land.)
The Patriots had already admitted taping those eight games, NFL spokeman Greg Aiello said. The tapes were of regular season games against the Chargers, Bills and Browns from 2002 to 2002 (So, he turns in only eight, yet if my math is correct there were 48 league games for the years 2000, 2001 & 2002?) Also a video of the AFC title game against the Steelers.
Commissioner Roger Goodell (He must have sold out to the Patriots under the table) has said he would penalize the Patriots further if Walsh had a tape of the Rams’ walkthrough in February. The
Boston Herald reported that a Patriots employee taped that walk-through.
COME ON GUYS, you know in your hearts of hearts, if AL Davis would have done something of that magnatude, all of our draft picks would have been taken. The fines would have been doubled and any title games we won would have been reversed. Goodell may have even tried to take our franchise away.
Ya, there is a DOUBLE STANDARD in town.
Slap in the hands for some and a sledge hammer for others.
This was reported today by Quick snaps from News Services.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
Waterboarding is against the Geneva convention. Anyone violating it makes this country a war criminal. Period!
May 8th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
HayesDaze#37, I am well aware of the Raiders past success, Davis keeps reminding me. But, the British ruled the seas at one point. They don’t anymore. You are living in the past like Davis. Past glory doesn’t translate into wins. I want to see the Raiders win just as much as you do, but with “Mr. Burns” running the team, I don’t think it is going to happen.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
My point Dakota is that he’s consistently inconsistent… and the “American people” will hold him accountable for that…
May 8th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Riverside, Davis doesn’t need to be punished because the pain is self-inflicted.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:08 pm
Cole Ford,
How much real estate do you own in FANTASY LAND? You know, the place where everyone gets along and there is no need for interrogation tactics that just might save people’s lives and do no physical harm to the individual other than scare the piss out of them?
Do you have any idea what torture really is? You must not, because if you classify waterboarding as torture you clearly are living a sheltered life.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:10 pm
Hayes, you know what? Never mind you guys. You guys can think what you want. The Raiders are the greatest? Fine. Teams are afraid to come into Oakland? Sure. The mystique is still there? Roger that. Fans are fans, and hey, if you’re going to be a fan, especially a fan that goes to every game and hangs out with other fans on a regular basis, then you might as well believe.
But if Al Davis would just drop these nutty beliefs for five seconds, and realize his organization is at rock bottom and needs a through restructure from upper management to the lowest guy on the depth chart, and give himself a few years…rather he’s here or not in three years, to bring in the right people to build a real competitive team, that could really compete with teams like the G men, the Patriots (love them or hate them), or the Colts (in January..), and win the Super Bowl, we can at least be a good football team again. Hey, you guys can even tell yourselves it’s the mystique that’s winning games for us, and Al Davis’s genius guidance, and ignore the body of work put in by the people that Al hired. Whatever. At least we’ll be winning.
I don’t mind the fans being crazy. But when you have an owner that’s crazy too, you get 19-61.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Tonio, what politician has ever served as long as McCain and never changed his mind or flip-flopped on an issue? None is the answer you are looking for, but of course it will be an issue and it should be an issue in the election. Everything is fair game.
Personally, I don’t like any of these candidates, but I guess I will have to pick one eventually.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
blah blah blah MR… blah blah
May 8th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Would you like to demonstrate water boarding for us Dakota? I have seen images, as I am sure you have, and it sure looks like torture to me. You don’t have to be threatened with immense pain or death to be tortured. That’s fine if the U.S. wants to engage in torture, but we better stop calling ourselves a democracy. Maybe we should admit what we really are then, an oppressive empire that only gives a damn about financial interests.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Torture doesn’t result in anything but lies to stop tourure.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:14 pm
# 408RAIDER Says:
May 8th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Cole Ford = troll
……….
408Raider = kool aid drinker
May 8th, 2008 at 12:14 pm
Living in the past? I’m right here, fully invested in today’s team — block of PSL’s and all — with this current team.
When the Raiders are again atop the NFL, it will be: “The Raiders are back.” Not: “Wow, we finally won one.”
Criticize where it’s due (there’s plenty to criticize, it’s easy to do)…
But, if you’re going to compare franchises, measure a franchise by its entire history, not just part of it.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
FYI…………..
The following companies just filed for Bankruptcy:
> Hollywood Video
> Levitz
> Sharper Image
> Performance Team Freight
> Linens n Things
> Circuit City
> Bed, Bath and Beyond
> If you have gift cards from the above list use them ASAP, they will not
be valid for much longer.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Dakota is just saying that waterboarding is ok to sound patriotic. He knows it’s wrong.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:16 pm
I tried to forward the link that states the reason for the Raiders Silver and Black is that AD is visually colorblind but it would not let me post it.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
Dakota, you believe Iraq had something to do with 9-11 too, huh?
May 8th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
# Tonio Says:
May 8th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
blah blah blah MR… blah blah
………
Oooh….
Good comeback.
?!?!?
May 8th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
lol exla… did not… he liked black in general because he felt it was a menacing color…
May 8th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
Just Win Baby, Commitment to Excellence, Pride and Poise, The greatness of the Raiders is in its future = “We are bringing democracy to the Middle East”. Its all just empty rhetoric.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
May 8th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
I’ll try it again http://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/19/sports/playmagazine/0819play-davis.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1
May 8th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
Hello? There are other areas on IBA to debate these off-topic topics.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
Cole’s equating AD with “this” government… lol… you are trippin dude…
May 8th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
Tonio, if anything I said wasn’t true, believe me, you’d have more to say than “blah blah”. You’d be able to point out specifically what is wrong. But you don’t. So pretending to ignore me is the only option you have left. The agony of defeat…
May 8th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
RaiderTW Says:
May 8th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Torture doesn’t result in anything but lies to stop tourure.
_______________________________________________________
Naive statement. Torture has worked since the birth of man…not that it is right, but it certainly works.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
Saddam Hussein probably had something to do with the Raiders’ dismal record over the last five years.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Tonio, are you a kool aid drinking homer? Do you believe the mystique still wins games for us? If so, which of the 4 games? Do you believe that Al Davis can build a football team?
May 8th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
First page quote “Davis, as it happens, is colorblind.”
May 8th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
Post #950, that is the irony of ironies. Al Davis railing against dictators. You would think he had some sympathy for them.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
Dakota, torture works to accomplish what?
May 8th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
MR — Nobody can discuss or debate anything with you without you exaggerating or changing their stance to suit your own comebacks.
You just throw out a hook, hope somebody nibbles, then you spout the same ol’ same ol’ every post. We get it…you hate Al, you’re not really a fan, and you love to argue.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
RaiderTW Says:
May 8th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
Dakota, you believe Iraq had something to do with 9-11 too, huh?
______________________________________________________
No, that was about oil and revenge…but here we are, so now we have to deal with it.
Do you want an immediate withdrawal of all US troops from Iraq?
May 8th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
“They’re like North Korea,” one rival team official told me. “They’re in the community of nations, but they’re kind of not.” New York Times on Al Davis
May 8th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
Hayes, I actually wasn’t challenging you to a debate. I just said that if Al Davis would leave the nutty beliefs to homers like you, and focus on building a real football team again, we would actually be the great team that you kool aid drinkers think we are now. We’d actually have wins to go along with it. That’s all I was saying. No debate. Just a simple point.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
MR.. when did I ever state anything about the mystique winning anything… scroll up sir… and comment correctly…
May 8th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Dakota, what do you think we’ll accomplish by keeping troops in Iraq?
May 8th, 2008 at 12:29 pm
I asked you, Tonio, if you believe Al Davis can be a general manager in today’s NFL. Do you think so? I’m trying to find out if you’re a kool aid drinker. Are you? Do you believe Al Davis can build a football team? Do you believe mystique still wins games for us?
May 8th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
#962, MR — You just made my point exactly, thank you.
I have never said this team’s a great team. But, it has as much potential to achieve greatness as any other young team in the NFL. Change those words, or the way I meant them.
MR, you have no credibility because you exaggerate everything in an attempt to make yourself seem smarter. It’s doing the opposite.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
Hayes, why should I care what my credibility is in a comments section dominated by homers? I’m not here to earn any awards. I just like to have fun with you guys, and I like Jerry’s blogging. Those are the only two reasons I’m here. To get Jerry’s updates, and to make fun of the homers who think that Al Davis can really build a football team. If the shoe fits, well hey…
May 8th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Apparently I missed the question(s)
Do I think AD can be a gm in todays NFL? yes
Am I a kool aid drinker? yeah… add tons of sugar please
Do I believe AD can build a football team? yes… see our history sir… 3 sb victories… 5 participations multiple division championships.etc etc.. you cant deny the man credit when we’re successful and then blame him when we’re not…
Do “still” I believe mystique wins games? that’s an interesting addmition on your part sir… see my previous answer
May 8th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Alright, Tonio. I just wanted to see if you’re as crazy as HayesDayz, and you just admitted you are. Thank you.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
MR, it doesn’t matter if anybody thinks Al can be a GM. He IS a GM, and he doesn’t really care if you think he’s qualified or not.
How many Super Bowls has Jerry Jones won lately? Mike Holmgren? Shanahan? Parcells? Those guys called the shots recently, too.
Good times, bad times, they come and go for everybody. You’re just another “what has he done for me lately” kinda guy — again, easy to read.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
RaiderTW, just forget it. Dakota is just repeating the nonsense he hears on AM Radio and Fox News. I’ve asked him several times what he thinks we’ll accomplish by staying in Iraq. He refuses to answer. That tells you his story, right there. He has no clue as to what would be accomplished.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
well… since #37 was my football idol when I played… I’ll accept that as a complement…
May 8th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
HayesDayez, I don’t get your point. I understand Al is the GM, and I’m saying that’s why we have no chance of being a playoff team.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Mike Shanahan is attending Bush’s daughter’s wedding. Another reason to hate the Broncos!.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
HayesDaze says, ‘it doesn’t matter if anybody thinks Al can be a GM. He IS a GM, and he doesn’t really care if you think he’s qualified or not.”
That is exactly why the Raiders have the worst record over the past five years.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
And MR keeps chasing his own tail…
May 8th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
Tonio, he just named himself after Lester Hayes. He’s actually a crazy fan who thinks that a GM who’s tanked the previous 5 seasons still has what it takes to build a football team in today’s league. And so are you. Leave Lester out of this.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
Chasing my own tail? You’ve responded to every comment I’ve submitted today, Hayzed and Confused.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
I personaly think that George W Bush is behind all the bad things the Raiders have gone through for the past 5 years. 9/11 happens and all of a sudden the Patriots are the team to beat and the Raiders are the bottom feeders.
Think about it. I simply have no faith in mankind, theya re a bunch of greedy bitches out there and there’s too much money for football to be on the up and up.
Now, having said that, I still watch the crap out of it.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
MR, the same argument droning on and on…ZZZzzz
May 8th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
Thats a good point Raider Buck. Another reason to vote for Obama. The first black president. The Raiders had the first black coach. Maybe this conspiracy thing will work out for us after all.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
I’ve always mulled over the conspiracy involving the “Patriots”, of all teams, practically being handed the first Super Bowl following 9/11. I wrote letters to Al Davis earlier in the season, suggesting he should temporary replace the pirate on the helmet emblem with George W. Bush…and with the eyepatch. He didn’t listen, and we got robbed. I tried.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
We’ll see how thing progress this year MR… and see if you’re drinking to kool aid when we’ve improved as much as many of “us” think we have…
May 8th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Hayezed and Confused,
If I’m that boring, why do you respond to every single comment that I submit?
May 8th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
And of course I’m just kidding. My name is not Fox and I don’t work for the FBI, but I want to believe!
May 8th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
Down to “we’ll see”, huh?
Too bad, Tonio. I was hoping you’d present a case to me as to how this team that Davis is building will be better than the NY Giants, Colts, or Patriots. Perhaps you don’t believe it yourself. But hey, you’re right. We’ll see…
May 8th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
People thought that Joe Paterno had lost it and could no longer build a winning football team He did have to re-asses the way he was doing things and make some changes, but he did build a good team again.
May 8th, 2008 at 12:58 pm
ANYONE WITH A LIST OF PLAYERS ATTENDING THE MINICAMP
May 8th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
I’ll be back tonight.
Hayes and Tonio, no hard feelings. You guys are alright. Like I said, I don’t mind the fans being fans. I just wish Davis would get it together.
Dakota, mull over my question, would you? Think about what we’ll accomplish by keeping our troops in Iraq. It would be good for you. Because judging by your comments today, it’s obvious you don’t think much at all about the Bush Administrations’ foreign policy. You just repeat what you hear. That’s not good for you, Dakota. God gave you a brain. Use it.
See you guys tonight. Get your good MR comebacks ready!!!
May 8th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
The Raiders don’t belong in L.A. Thats a crappy city or area to live in IMO.
Raiders officials should work to build a new stadium across the street closer to the bay from where they are at now….or build in the Dublin area. BART goes there and it’s in the middle of two major freeways. There is also a crap load of unused land there.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
RaiderTW Says:
May 8th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
—Or shortly there after. One of the reasons they fight us so fiercely is because we are on their soil. Pentagon says being in Iraq makes us unsafe to terrorists & the CIA says the same. $50000.00 a second is spent being there.
_______________________________________________________
True, it has been very costly, both in terms of money, and US, British and Iraqi lives, but the fact remains, we are there, and that cannot be changed.
Now we have to think about the ramifications of just leaving the mess we created behind. If we pull out of Iraq overnight, how do you think all of those people who have supported us and cooperated with us will be treated by those that opposed the occupation? If we leave before Iraq is able to stand on its own two feet we will witness a massacre of biblical proportions. We have a responsibility to those people, to at least give them a fighting chance at a government and a police force that can protect them.
A quick withdrawal of forces from Iraq would be the repetition of mistakes we made in Afghanistan in the 1980s. It would lead to even more bitterness on the part of the Iraqi people towards us if we abandoned them now.
A quick withdrawal of US forces from Iraq would be immoral and would lead to horrible consequences for us down the road.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:03 pm
Lol … you’re cute MR… I like it…
Ok, to begin with… I do think that “he” has begun to field a solid young core of very athletic players that showed flashes of improvements last year… I believe that “his” foresight in bringing in Cable as a part of the offense is proving a “smart” move… I do believe Jamarcus will be a very good QB…
Will we be better than NY or the Colts this year… I don’t think so.. but recall this… Remember how well we played the Colts last year? I think this year’s team can win a game against them…
and I do believe… if you’re so against “us” you should wait until “he” passes on… then you can come back home …. :*
May 8th, 2008 at 1:07 pm
afternoon raider nation any news about roster changes iheard that teams can only have about 80 people on the roster for training camp cuz theres no more NFL Europe when there was teams could have up to 97 people on the training camp roster
May 8th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
Who cares Holyroller, we are talking about serious issues today.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
probably gonna have 2 cut some people before tomrrow
May 8th, 2008 at 1:10 pm
nothing more serious than raiders news F Iraq
May 8th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
MR = Cole ford = Troll
yeah I drink the kool aid its delicious! you should try it or just keep drinking your hater aid! Its up to you guy
May 8th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
No news yet that we’ve heard Holy… I suspect we wont until tomorrow…
May 8th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
408… don’t hog the juice yo!
May 8th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
go grab a picket sign and hit the freeway this is for raider news if u feel the need to talk politics CNN has a blog page cmon guys really
May 8th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
come on jerry wheres our pre camp hype!!!
May 8th, 2008 at 1:13 pm
thanks tonio
May 8th, 2008 at 1:14 pm
http://www.ibabuzz.com/insidepolitics/
May 8th, 2008 at 1:15 pm
Raiderwoj, thanks for the link. But, forget that, you guys are much more interesting.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:15 pm
ha ha ha Tonio MR Davis has it(Kool-Aid) sent in by the truck load theres plenty 4 everyone!!!!
May 8th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Cole Ford if you really are MR, I am going to be pissed at myself, lol.
Sorry guys, we got a little off topic.
GO RAIDERS!
May 8th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
Mort from BSPN said we are the most improved team in the AFC WEST on NFL live today! well DUH! Its about time someone gave us some love!! Mr Davis probaly sent them a truck load of Kool aid 2….
May 8th, 2008 at 1:21 pm
Lol… in all assorted flavors to 408… ( yet they sit and wonder why something black in color can has so much flavor ??? ) It’s all about the juice baby ..
May 8th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
BRIAN WHITE
DARREN MCFADDEN
MICHAEL BUSH
LOUIS RANKIN
JUSTIN GRIFFITH
MATT HAHN
JAVON WALKER
DREW CARTER
ARMAN SHIELDS
CHAZ SCHILENS
DARREL STRONG
CHRIS WAGNER
KWAME HARRIS
JOHN WADE
ADAM SPIEKER
BRANDON RODD
KALIMBA EDWARDS
TREVOR SCOTT
GREYSON GUNHEIM
DERRICK GRAY
WILLIAM JOSEPH
ED HARTWELL
MALIK JACKSON
SHANE SIMMONS
RONNIE PENTZ
DEANGELO HALL
DERRICK BROWN
GIBRIL WILSON
TYVON BRANCH
May 8th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
DID I FORGET NE1
May 8th, 2008 at 1:27 pm
thanks
May 8th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
Who the hell is Derrick Gray?
May 8th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
I THREW IT TOGETHER QUIT I COULD OF HAD A MISTAKE…. LET ME CHECK
May 8th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
quaq
http://www.kffl.com/player/19844/nfl
there ya go pimp
May 8th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Derrick Gray (DE)
Height: 6′4″
Weight: 266
College: Texas Southern
Conference: SWAC
Hometown: Silver Spring, MD
High School: John F. Kennedy HS
One of the top 40 small-school prospects in this year’s draft class, Gray was not really on the radar coming into his senior year. But last fall he showed the potential to become a nice power defensive end with a second-team All-SWAC season: 76 tackles, 24.5 for loss, 9.5 sacks and three forced fumbles. That sort of production from a larger defensive end got him in the crosshairs of NFL scouts pretty quickly.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
can anyone add or subtract from the list
May 8th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
JR, will be great.
DMAC will rush for over 800 yards.if fargas is healthy and starts, if not 1200 yards baby.
Miller will have 60 plus catches.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
walker, i like to say he’ll go over 1000, but i dont know.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Dakota, I am not MR. A hundred years is a hundred years. What is the difference? As long as we have a military presence in the Middle East there will be people bombing us.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
now deffense:
TH and kirk will have 100+ tackles each and 8INTs between them both.
ASO and Hall will have over 10 picks.
Gibril and HUFF will have over 4 maybe 5.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
i hate to say it but i agree with ford.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
send them all DMAC jerseys, that should make em happy
May 8th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
they only know the cowboys and 49ers overthere.
May 8th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
They could care less about football. Soccer is their sport.
May 8th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
new post
May 8th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
There is a new FOOTBALL post up.
May 8th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
It’s the same as the Raider Nation foriegn policy, you ain’t with us then u against us.
May 8th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
they have been strong for a long time, they have more money than we do, free health, less taxes.and they’re at war for the last 62 years, we need thier help.
May 8th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
I’m basically new to reading and posting some comments on this blog and others as well. So correct me if I’m wrong, but I believed that we were to basically discuss NFL football, especially Raiders football.
We’re suppose to share ideas and not critize
others for different points of view. At least not in a derogatory way…agree or disagree but respect each others opinions as we’re all looking for the same thing:
RAIDERS IMPROVEMENT, RAIDERS WINS AND MORE SUPER BOWLS.
There were so many posting attacking people and a lot of political talk, from Iraq to torture, etc. Have I missed the point?
May 8th, 2008 at 8:38 pm
Does anyone have an idea on how we stop the run this year ? Anyone ?
May 19th, 2009 at 10:34 pm
boboli…
moncaelt…