Rookie minicamp report, Day 2
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Saturday, May 10th, 2008 at 4:00 pm in Oakland Raiders.
After keeping Darren McFadden in the garage for a day, the Raiders took him out for a spin to see how he could perform on the open road Saturday.
Practice ended with McFadden taking a pitch from quarterback Brian White and beating a linebacker to the corner and streaking downfield for an offensive “win.”
It’s no secret that McFadden is fast.
What I wanted to see was the receiving skills Lane Kiffin had been raving about, the ones which McFadden insisted he had even though they were rarely exploited at Arkansas.
Nothing is for certain until McFadden actually catches some passes in traffic in full-contact situations, but indications are that the Raiders have themselves their first legitimate threat out of the backfield since Charlie Garner, with the added bonus being that Michael Bush looks fluid and natural catching the ball as well.
McFadden caught passes out of the backfield. He caught them split out as a wide receiver. He sliced inside a helpless Brian Williams for a catch and run. He even lined up as quarterback taking shotgun snaps less than 24 hours after Kiffin cautioned about throwing too much at the rookie too soon.
“I thought Darren had a really impressive day, adding a lot to the offense,” Kiffin said. “We got him outside and did some really good things, as well as Michael Bush outside as well.”
Before taking the field, McFadden, in an interview session compared himself with Vikings rookie star Adrian Peterson.
“We’re both big, fast guys,” McFadden said. “He’s probably a little more physical than I am but as far as just natural play-making and talent, I feel like I have an edge on any running back. Not saying it to be cocky or anything but I feel like I’m very versatile and I can play a lot of different positions.”
More Day 2 snapshots:
– San Ramon Valley High product Sam Keller continued to get extensive work during his tryout, which ends Sunday. He made soem good throws but wasn’t as sharp as on Saturday.
He had one pass batted down by defensive lineman Tranell Morant of Arizona.
“You either produce or don’t produce,” Keller said. “They either like you, or they say, `get out of town.’ I’m going to enjoy my three days and see what happens.”
– McFadden expressed confidence that his contract should not be a problem and that he would be at training camp on time. There is no reason to think that won’t be the case.
Last year’s fiasco with JaMarcus Russell, the No. 1 overall pick in the draft, was the only time the Raiders have ever had trouble bringing in a draft pick. The market for McFadden’s deal will be set both those immedately after and before him, and chances are it will be a much easier exercise.
– Fullback Matthew Hahn dropped an easy swing pass from Jeff Otis, but that didn’t prevent linebacker Malik Jackson from getting scolded for being a late arrival.
“You’re making it hard on yourself,” linebackers coach Don Martindale said. “You’ve got to close that gap.”
– Raiders defensive backs were generally victimized by receivers for the second straight day, even though the quarterback play was spotty.
Todd Watkins made a couple of nice catches, including one over the middle with hands high at the top of a leap.
Watkins is 6-foot-2, 190 pounds, and draftees Arman Shields (6-1, 195) and Chaz Schilens (6-4, 225) are bigger than the defensive backs that cover them. Marcel Reece, in for a weekend tryout, is 6-3, 235). Only Drisan James (5-11, 185) qualifies as a smaller receiver. Oakland’s veterans are also on the large side other than last year’s third-round pick Johnnie Lee Higgins (5-11, 185).
The Raiders should have plenty of large targets to choose from for quarterback JaMarcus Russell.
– McFadden kept the ball securely tucked in his right arm throughout practice and did not have anything close to a fumble.
Running backs coach Tom Rathman said McFadden’s mechanics were flawed in college.
“I told him he’s got to lock his elbow down,” Rathman said. “A lot of times his elbow wasn’t locked to the side, and obviously if you don’t have that point, which is the most critical point in my opinion, as far as the four points of pressure, you’re going to have some issues.”
By Rathman’s count, four of McFadden’s fumbles came at Arkansas while at quarterback, and two on kickoff returns, making his fumble stats seem worse than they really were.
– Rathman’s assessment of McFadden’s running style: “You talk about running to a spot, putting a foot down and accelerating, that’s what he is. Very similar to Justin Fargas, in style. A little more upright, as a runner, kind of an Eric Dickerson style, shoulders up, great slasher, can accelerate, separate from a defender. It’s going to be great this year. It really is.”
– The offensive line of right tackle Noah Sutherland, right guard Jonathan Palmer, center Adam Spieker, left guard Jesse Boone and right tackle Brandon Rodd kept quarterbacks clean for the most part.
Offensive line, considering the Raiders scheme, would be one of the most likely positions for an unknown commodity to make a run at the 53-man roster.
– Kiffin compared the situation of Bush this season to the one Fargas experienced last year. Fargas, seemingly buried behind LaMont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes, had his breakout season with 1,009 yards.
“I actually talked to Justin about it, he said, ‘It’s OK, just hang in there,’ ” Bush said. “And I wasn’t really nervous about not playing. I was just worrying about where would I stand in an offensive standpoint. But things happen. They released Dominic, which I didn’t think they was gonna do. Things turn out differently.”
– Rathman talked glowingly of the stable of running backs, but stressed the Raiders won’t hesitate to move backs in and out based on production.
“I don’t care if you were the fourth round pick, one of the top guys of the SEC that have ever come out as a runner, I don’t care if you’re Justin Fargas ran for 1,009 yards,” Rathman said. “I mean, we have a standard here of the play that we want to present as a group of running backs, and we’re going to hold everybody that suits up and steps out on that field to those standards. When you’re not able to get it done to those standards, we’re going to go to the next guy.”
[You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.]
May 10th, 2008 at 4:10 pm
first
May 10th, 2008 at 4:10 pm
Go Raidersssssss!!!!
May 10th, 2008 at 4:13 pm
good update
May 10th, 2008 at 4:13 pm
Man I hope we can stop the run this year. I am pretty sure we can run on teams so this could be a good year.
Lets not forget what Bush can bring to the team.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
I hope McFadden can get signed on time.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Looks like McFadden is making a good impression so far. I think we made the right choice. 1300 yds. 9 TDs this season? Its possible.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Now if we only had a Quarterback.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
Look for Fargas to slip to # 3 on the depth chart is bush is really as good as they say….
May 10th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
Al’s Daddy we do have a QB … he just wasn’t worth a #1 pick especially paying him all that cash.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Why do you guys care so much about how much the players are paid? It’s funny how so many think they are cap guys and understand anything.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
Jerry Mac…. Thanx again, For a good report and nice read.
Seems like coach Rathman is downright giddy, with all of the weapons, that will be at Kiff’s disposal to use next season. And that they have some good ideas in place alredy on how to best utilize them.
Can’t wait to see all of them in pre- season.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
McFadden and Bush…Rape and Pillage!
May 10th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
He hasn’t even had a real chance. Stop being so negative
May 10th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Ja’Marcus will shine this year.Training camp will do wonders for him this year.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:46 pm
Jerry Mac… Any word on how that Greyson Gunheim kid looked at DE?????
May 10th, 2008 at 4:48 pm
909…saw the photo of Gunheim…lord, looks like Cooper morphed into a DE!
May 10th, 2008 at 4:48 pm
We’v signed Greg Spires. Good signing
May 10th, 2008 at 4:49 pm
Rotate all 3….keep em fresh. I like our options.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:50 pm
Pillage and Plunder: a little more P.C. there, Lowdown.
Think BART Bridge Balla, came up with that one.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:51 pm
Just wait and see.J’Marc,D-Mac,Z-Mill,Fargas,Bush,JWalker,Asumuha,Hall,Huff, I am feeling confident about our weapons this year. If Kiffen can stay on track, and pick up where he left off, we will be competitive.
May 10th, 2008 at 4:56 pm
WARNING TO THE AFC WEST, and the national football league…
Oaktown will dominate with Tres Rex…
#25 - Crash Test Dummie
#20 - McFlash
#29 - EmBush
You’ve been put on notice…
Back to the SuperBowl!!!
May 10th, 2008 at 5:00 pm
P.C.??? Uh, in case you hadn’t noticed, I’m real “Lowdown”….haven’t the time nor the consideration to be P.C….lol!
I figured “Rape” ….what with all his kids and what not…
Oh good, Greg Spires…a shorter, older, less productive version of Burgess…another DE who CANNOT DE….oh super. Camp fodder.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Lowdown… Yeah, hear that he may be a good find. Was curious on how he did in the drills & scrimmages.
I would like to see him have a good shot at making training camp, and then who knows if he impresses and works hard, maybe just maybe..
Could always use some more help on the D.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Lowdown… I hear ya.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:05 pm
Someone already posted it but DE Greg Spires was signed.
He´s small at 6′1 265 but was considered a good run defender as a 5 year starter for the always tough Tampa D. He remained the starter last season for the first 8 games until a calf pull sidelined him for a few games.
Some info on his release…
“Spires, who is scheduled to turn 34 in August, was scheduled to have a base salary of $3.9 million and a cap value of $4.361 million in 2008.
Stopping the run was the forte` of both Spires and Kevin Carter, who rotated regularly at left defensive end in 2007.”
Maybe he can provide depth and fill in for Burgess in certain situations here.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:10 pm
it’s hard not to get excited when you think of the possiblities of a healthy season with Bush / McFadden in the backfield… Really looking forward to reading about our veteran wide-outs at camp. if we’ve got a threat to go all the way at RB, it’d be great to see that at WR.
Have my doubts on Javon - hoping he proves me wrong and breaks a few long ones.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
its looking good guys, and we do have a QB, and he is worth the #1 pick overall. IMO he is the best QB prospect since Manning. he is big, mobil, accurate, and has a cannon for an arm, why isnt he worth a #1 pick?
May 10th, 2008 at 5:13 pm
in JR i trust.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:16 pm
Hello, my name is Lisa, I am Cole Ford’s mother. He wanted me to let you all know that he is going away for a while. He just wanted to say goodbye. He considered you guys good friends. He doesn’t have many friends and he seems to enjoy this blog thing. Personally, I don’t get it, but to each his own. Cole has to deal with some issues, but he wishes you all good tidins. He wanted me to say one more thing, Go Raiders and F*ck Alameda Insider. I do wish he wouldn’t use such foul language.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
i hope we dont go back to being the grave yard of the NFL, with old players comming to get one more pay.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
909…we know Richardson, Burgess and Edwards make it onto the line at their respective DE spots.
In the old days, the Raiders lined up the Elephant Base DE (tall and usually around 300 lbs)in the spot Burgess now occupies.
Since getting away from those days (last time I remember was under Willie Shaw before Gruden booted him…) we have continually ranked at the bottom of Run Defense.
Al won’t move D-Burg…so Richardson needs to beef up vs. the run and the line backer behind D-Burg
needs to bulk up likewise…Robert Thomas is all heart and little muscle…maybe Hartwell can dominate, or someone else step up in pre-season..dunno.
As for DE, Edwards will situational pass rush and exchange with Richardson, or so I suppose. That leaves Scott as the other raw backup to Burgess?
Sure we may keep the kid, but suspect we will bring in another vet (other than Spires) to bolster the DE….or MAYBE…just MAYBE….William Jospeh,
who has played DE, and was lauded by the Giants as being agile enough to do so, will play the base DE spot on obvious running downs….
Joseph may be our new Tommy Kelly, rotating between DE and DT.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:18 pm
cole, you crack me up.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
that’s a nice one.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:27 pm
Lowdown… Gunheim is definitely is a long shot at best,a pratice squad shot though, could be there in case of injury. ouch.. hope he is not needed for that scenario, just sayin….
May 10th, 2008 at 5:32 pm
trevor scott IMO will make the roster, Trotter and spikes are still out there, Trotter is a run stuffer but i dont think he can play OLB, but inside he will punish people.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
Damn, I just realized I’m going to have to work every Sunday this coming fall. Now I hope we don’t break out until next season.
jk
May 10th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Cole Ford,s Mother… Did your son get you some flowers yet??
May 10th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Might have to bribe someone to take Sundays for you.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
I expect that each of Fargas, Bush, and D-Mac will get his share of carries.
D-Mac could become the running back equivalent of Randy Moss — in terms of production (not attitude). Moss has many times changed a game with a few huge plays, even without catching lots of passes. If D-Mac lives up to expectations, he could break several long runs a game without having more than 10 carries.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:52 pm
where dose it show the raiders signed Greg Spires
May 10th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Wanted to know Al Davis like MaddenRaider does,–remember when he said McFadden was drafted, he was done posting– and see what our pass to run ratio was. So sinced I looked at the 90’s until now, I decided to look at 63-89 and see what Al Davis and his puppets did.
63-69, 2 years of higher run attempts, 3 years of higher passing attempts and 2 years of a tie.
70-79, 7 seasons more runs, 2 years of more passes, 1 tie.
80-89, 8 seasons more runs, 1 tie, 1 season we had more passes
As you can see, for 27 seasons we had a higher ranking of passing attempts than rushing attempts 22% of the time…When MaddenRaider says Al Davis prefers the pass, it’s hard to argue with his facts.
May 10th, 2008 at 5:59 pm
Time to get the grill going and flip some burgers…
Take care all..
May 10th, 2008 at 6:00 pm
splitting Mike Bush AND Darren McFadden out!!!! Jeez, glad I’m not Cotrell, Gunther or Slowik in the AFC West. They gotta be guzzling the pepto right about now.
May 10th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
Hey Madden Raider Slapper, what is up!!!
May 10th, 2008 at 6:04 pm
MRS, didn’t you know that maddenraider or mr or Mo Ron as I call him can see into mens souls and discern the real meaning of all things??? What an amazing gift he has!!! With that amazing gift how he can be wrong 99% of the time just boggles the mind.
May 10th, 2008 at 6:24 pm
So we signed Greg Spires huh?
I guess that can be an ok move. This is a very young team so we can use a few decent vets to show these young cats the ropes. But the key word is (few). We dont wanna get back into the habit of signing a buch of old past prime players and end up becoming the Oakland Grayders again. So lets hope Spires can help us. YA KNOW?!
May 10th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
Jerry, we have 2 right tackles now? New scheme from Cable?
– The offensive line of right tackle Noah Sutherland, right guard Jonathan Palmer, center Adam Spieker, left guard Jesse Boone and right tackle Brandon Rodd kept quarterbacks clean for the most part.
May 10th, 2008 at 6:55 pm
Now I’ve been a Raider fan all my life.now i know I’m only 25 but has anybody in here forgot that the Raiders cant stop the run at all. HELLO the rushing defense has been damn near dead last since 2003 they were 16th and guess were that got them to the big dance hate to remember it but we got there and in 2002 we were 18th which was another productive season for us. So how does a Old ASS insane man. “well excuse the old because i have a great grandmother turning 101 and she is in better condition physically and mentally than Al Davis i’ve seen him a number of time and he cant function that coach at Penn state is the same age and is in much better condition than Al.”fix the problems with the
Raiders? try to go from being 6th in the league rushing to #1 stupid if it aint broke don’t fix it. Glenn Dorsey future of defense in the NFL period. But for now go DMAC
May 10th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
Sign Grady and its on……..
May 10th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
I’ve read some recent pst where people think we are below average at the WR position. While a Chad Johnson would be a huge upgrade due to his route running and experience not to mention speed. The WR position here is just unknown more than below average in many cases that’s just giving a few of the right guy’s a chance to perform and voila a star is born. It happens all the time.
Anquan Boldin was a 4th rnd after thought. T J houshmansada a late round flier. if your coaches understand how to sift through talent and find the gems that’s really all it takes, given the gems are in the mix.
My personal opinion is the WR position might not look great at face value but in my experience that doesn’t mean much it’s giving talent an opportunity to perform that counts and the cream will rise to the top.
And sometimes it’s guy’s that no one thinks of that does it.
the important thing is to go through the OTA’s and invite the right players to camp.
Now the running game I have to agree with COW’s post of course since I’m a huge MB fan, I just think that what he brings to the table is just too awesome to ignore.
Last year evryone in here laughed at my Justin Fargas prediction. I feel MB is this years Fargas only better. However i feel Russell will be up and down all season with stretches of greatness and periods disappointment until he grows.
Only Cable understand what we have at the Oline he knows his system to even comment on it IMO is somewhat misguided because his system is very unusual.
Defensively if we can get pressure on the QB we will be very dangerous and as I’ve said all along stopping the run is discipline and tackling……….period.
May 10th, 2008 at 6:59 pm
oh yeah the Raiders still need to learn how to tackle I really think all this falls on Rob Ryan
May 10th, 2008 at 6:59 pm
Kiffin doing some experimentation huh? This is definitely one talented backfield. I honestly don’t think you’ll rarely if ever see McFadden playing QB out there; maybe more HB options though (remember this was tried with LJ last year but he ran it in for a TD).
Its just amazing how the tables turn. After decades of dominating this division and now about to rise from years of getting our asses kicked to kicking some ass. After years of getting run on by division foes we’re finally gearing up to be the ones doing the running.
Now that the rooks mini is wrapping up, I’m waiting on the vets mini to hear word on Walker health. This offense is 1, maybe 2, WRs away from being hell to deal with. (I have no judgment on the Oline really - in Cable we must trust - no choice really).
May 10th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
BHP I agree the WR is ok and I rather bring up 1 or 2 of these rookies. Chad was a thought before we signed Walker & Carter not now, he is a wreck and a mental patient.
Our defense has to get pressure with the front 4 and that really hasnt happened in a LONG time. RR will not send a LB or DB after the QB so unless Kiffin has gotten in RR’s ear or our front 4 do something special it will be more of the same.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
BHP - I have been critical of the WR corp if you can say that, without having yet seen them play. Not a very good idea to be honest - like putting the cart before the horse. I just look at them on paper (including the rooks) and I don’t know what we really have. Overall, I am confident they are better than last years corp; but I’m not so confident that they are a nice bit above average.
Like I’ve written before, I’m waiting to hear on Walker’s health and “look” (plus Carter). (And I believe you meant to mention Boldin to be a 2nd rounder but thats small potatoes …still the dude was a huge steal in the 2nd).
May 10th, 2008 at 7:15 pm
Terrapin I can’t disagree about the WR’s but I do have a sneaking suspicin that there are some real diamonds in the rough in there. two guy that I feel will play a real in busting out is the rookie Sheilds an Todd Watkins. Hardly polished recievers but I just feel very strongly about their reaching potential. However let me admit I would jump at the chance toget a Chad Johnson because I happen to think he is the best route runner in the game with the speed to stretch the field, It’s Randy and then Chad 1 and 2.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:18 pm
Terrapin, you dont see a substantial upgrade at WR ? I disagree.
Porter/Curry vs Walker/Carter
Curry now is up against the nickel back instead of the other teams #2. Add that with stability at the QB spot unless JR goes down. Our O-line will improve on pass blocking in Cables second year I think everything is going to be much improved.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
where did u guys read about greg spires?
May 10th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
its not on their website, si, espn or sporting news.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
Mistabrown, I know this is a well kept secret but truth be told Ryan sent DB’s and LB’s many times last year we just weren’t very good at it. Guy’s just weren’t very aggressive.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:23 pm
I expect big things from Miller in year 2 also. Our passing game has the potential to be very good especially if our running game is lightning and I think its going to be just that!
May 10th, 2008 at 7:25 pm
thats because when he called blitzes they were so suprised they couldnt execute it
May 10th, 2008 at 7:26 pm
I keep preaching to people. If we don’t stop the run we ain’t winning more than 5 games. Can me negative. Im keeping it real. Tommy Kelly better prove he is worth being the highest paid DT in the NFL, too.
Poke
May 10th, 2008 at 7:27 pm
If we can pass block decently I think this offense will be real good.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
BHP, If RR sent a db more than 3 times in 16 weeks Id be very surprised. I cant think of 1 time and I think it was Fabian and he missed an open shot at the QB. I also saw a DL drop back into coverage when RR sent a LB or CB, thats ridiculous.
Forget about disguising blitzes. If you go back and watch what the NYG’s did in the SB they made no attempt to hide their blitzes they lined up and said ok we are coming try and stop it and NE was paralyzed.
We have speed at the LB & CB position we should be very adept in our blitz package.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
Sneaky suspicion BHP? Nah, I’ll say that’s your eternal Raider optimism getting at you again ….j/k. I think I’ll take Boldin over Johnson though. Boldin, I think, is a better system fit: big, physical, a leader, goes all out, creates after the catch and good route runner. Johnson is very talented, maybe you can consider him a better pure WR, for sure a better route runner; but I’ll go with Boldin.
I was reading on Watkins a few days ago. I can’t really remember what I came back with except I remember he was picked up by Arizona and those boys can draft some damn good WRs so we’ll see if he progressed.
Kiffin says Sheilds would’ve went much higher if not for injury - that says something. Schilens? I worry about his lack of quickness although his size is hell to deal with. JLH? I don’t know. RC? I know what we’ve got there. Walker? I think Kiffin will keep him healthy - see Newberry et al. Carter? Improved every year but I’m not sure how far he can take it. Holland? Likely cut - still isn’t practicing. Buchanon and McFoy? About to stick a fork in them.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:34 pm
Only if Jam was a vet already - but you all should prepare yourselves for the inevitable ups and downs. At least the running game should keep him on a fairly even keel through most of the season.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
I thought Schilens ran like a 4.4 forty? I was amazed by his combination of size and speed. Very similar to Calvin Johnson in that area.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Terrapin I agree basically it’s just that I’ve seen this over and over in the past. Guy’s go to camp and you find gems in the most unlikely places. Tommy Kelly went to camp at the bottom and left camp near the top he just tore it up in camp no one could block him a rookie FA.
You know the are many common knowledge beliefs in here that have nothing to do with reality. I would challenge anyone that has a full game of last years defense to watch the entire game defense and chart the # of blitzes and then say we never or rarely blitz.
It’s just a misperception that’s perpetrated by Ryan haters because the defnse struggled so badly. Execution was terrible play calling and design was not the problem. It was execution and tackling and discipline now if you want to fault Ryan for those then you’d be much more accurate.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
Word on Schilens is that he lacks quickness and did not have very strong production in college. Apparently he has what one would call built up speed. His scout report reads that he was habitually late getting off the line (which may be a reflection of lack of quickness). Oddly enough he performed better at his pro-day than his production would indicate on the field so Kiffin and Lofton took a flier on him in the 7th. (I wonder why he gained like 10lbs since his pro-day?).
But you look at dudes frame a loooong arms, you are like damn what a target.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:45 pm
Raider O Says:
May 10th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
its looking good guys, and we do have a QB, and he is worth the #1 pick overall. IMO he is the best QB prospect since Manning. he is big, mobil, accurate, and has a cannon for an arm, why isnt he worth a #1 pick?
Until the fix the rookie pay scale … no QB is worth #1 money. Why should he been the highest paid player on the team … without playing a down.
If the Raiders would have drafted Calvin Johnson instead of JR … they would have had a better record this year. Maybe in 2 or 3 years JR might be worth it but not now.
Personally I don’t care how much they make but when you have good players like Burgess making alot less and making the Pro Bowl … it causes nothing but problems for the team.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:46 pm
He might be similar in size and speed but he is very raw and runs with a lack of knowledge of the route tree, he’s purely a deep threat. If he can get into the play book and assimilate the route tree and bring that to camp with his could accelerate chances of learning the offense. Physically speaking he’s very talented but those guy’s get cut all the time. Ask Todd Watkins.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Raideralex99 your opinion is your opinion but it’s wrong. Money aside because whomever the would’ve drafted would’ve been the highest paid. Your judging this kid with a lack of knowledge or understanding about what we needed as an Organization and what he is as a player. nuff said.
May 10th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
That’s DREW Carter folks, not Cris Carter. The guy has such a great pedigree he isn’t a lock to make the team.
This can either be a blossum time for Mr “two decent seasons” Walker or he becomes the new Porter.
Curry is not really starter quality. More like #3. Nobody else on the roster is anybody more proven than Morant, Francis and Buchanon.
If Walker doesn’t have one of his best seasons, we could have one of the worst WR groups in the NFL. Think it’s a coincidence both DMAC and Bush are taking snaps at WR?
Keep your fingers crossed.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:01 pm
I realize Schilens is raw. I am hoping that he turns out to be something. You would expect that with that size and speed (4.38) he would have been a monster at San Diego State, which he wasn’t, although he did have some impressive flashes.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
COW how can you say we could have the worst WR’s in the NFL. Have you seen the Titans and Ravens and 49ers and on and on. Come on man sure we don’t have the top class but man stop cryin’ in the beer.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:05 pm
I think the WR´s are definitely improved from last season.
Think about it, last season it was Porter, Curry and either Mike Williams, Tim Dwight or Chris McFoy on the field.
This year there´s:
#1 Javon Walker: Kiffin said he´s gonna be 100% soon, we need him badly.
#2 Ronald Curry: He´s averaged 58 catches for 723 and 2 TD´s during the last 2 seasons.
It may not seem like much but consider he did it while playing in Tom Walsh´s offense in 06 and catching passes from the McCown-Culpepper combo in 07.
I expect Curry to have his best season in 08, he´ll have continuity under Kiffin and will be able to practice and develop a rapport with Russell througout camp.
#3 Drew Carter: Battled injuries early on but has actually played in 30 of the past 32 games, including all 16 last year with 38 catches for 517 and 4 TD´s.
He needs only to match those numbers to become a productive third receiver, but has the potential to improve on them too.
Provided Walker and Curry start, Carter makes for a very good #3 WR, better than anything we´ve had since Porter played with Brown and Rice.
JLH, Shields, Schilens and Watkins all have skills and are decent options for the 4th and 5th WR spots.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
IMO we’re a top end WR away from a very respectable group, I’ve said this a thousand times the QB will reveal a lot it’s not just the WR’s come on man get a clue. This is a very young offense and it needs time to grow. All you guy’s that say what you’ve said about Porter why in the hell did he get 30 mill from the Jags and you’ll see what kind of WR he really is now.
Every player that y’all said ahouldn’t even be in the NFL got new contracts from other NFL teams and weren’t on the market long at all so show some respect and ev en more important some damn insight for a change.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:10 pm
We could have one of the worst WR groups ?
-49ers
-Atl
-Buff
-SD
-KC
-Eagles
-Miami
-NYJ
-TB
-Ravens
All subpar WR groups that I think are below us or very close.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:11 pm
#75 thank you
I forgot Tenn and throw Chicago in there as well.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
The Vikings have a crap group of WR’s too when you put Berrian aside and he isnt even a true #1 IMO.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
I meant to say we´re definitely improved from last year but we are far from fielding a strong WR corps mostly due to Walker´s health concerns.
The good thing is we´ll have improved QB play, a strong running game and a TE who demands attention over the middle of the field. That should help the WR´s production.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:26 pm
I shouldn’t have gotten pissed but I just get tired of Raider fans dogging their own players. Javon Walker was a great WR last year when he was with Denver a lot better than Porter everybody said, now he’s just a bum because WE have him. Which is it?
Tyler Brayton total garbage, we cut him and he stays unemployed all of 3 days!! same with Dom Rhodes, It just gets real old.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
You guys are too glass half empty.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:31 pm
But…if Walker (6′3 215), Curry (6′2 210) and Carter (6′3 200) are healthy… you´d be hard pressed to find a bigger, faster and more athletic trio in the league.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:31 pm
How do you know we’ll have improved QB play? Russell is basically a rookie.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:34 pm
80, 81, 82…
Our receivers are fine…With Jam at QB, who teams have to respect and must play deeper than last year. Our running backs (Bush will surprise a lot of you “except bhp”) and Miller at TE will take pressure off of the receivers…
When the pats won their superbowls, who were their receivers? Brown, Branch??? If Walker or Carter is healthy we’re better than that…
May 10th, 2008 at 8:34 pm
Hes a rookie in the sense that its his first training camp but he has a huge advantage already knowing the offense coming in so the logical conclusion is “improvement”.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
85 -
Russell under center puts more fear in defenses than what we had last year…sure he’ll make mistakes, but he will also make plays that most QB’s can’t…
Remember his TD pass to Porter last year? How many QB’s could have done that?
May 10th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
The Ravens got into a 85 man brawl today see yahoo sports.
“Nearly all 85 players in camp were involved in a squabble Saturday that began when offensive tackle Oniel Cousins and defensive tackle Amon Gordon threw punches after running back Allen Patrick was taken down hard on a burst up the middle. All the players surged toward the middle of the field, and it was nearly two minutes before peace was restored”
May 10th, 2008 at 8:37 pm
BOB I concur the WR group has some real potential it’s just how you use them. We basically ignored our WR’s last year we didn’t attack anybody. And I feel we really ungraded the position, and brought in some real talented young unproven guy’s 2 years from now they could be as dominant as any in the league who knows.
As for the QB jut having the same guy week in week out will be an improvement. And with the talent this kid possesses, he will have games when he just flat out lights it up and games where he fizzles but the point is he’ll grow in the offense that’s MAJOR because we haven’t had that since Gannon.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:38 pm
Stupid Raiders Penalty
Yeah, he´s a rookie but, unlike last year, this time we have our starter from day 1, Russell will take all the reps and be able to develop some chemistry with everyone.
Just the fact that we won´t be playing musical chairs with our starting QB every week should make Russell and the offense more productive than what we had last season.
And finally…because if you put togheter McCown and what´s left of Culpepper, you still won´t get near what Russell can do.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:47 pm
BOB, Amen brotha! that crap we saw last year couldn’t get a pasing game going if their lives depended on it, it was just two guy’s looking like they were learning on the fly no cohesiveness at all. No leadership no chemistry and as a result the entire team suffered.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
Lets not forget JL Higgins…
He showed flashes last year and with a year under his belt he may make huge strides…
May 10th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Blackholepriest Says:
Javon Walker was a great WR last year when he was with Denver. A lot better than Porter everybody said, now he’s just a bum because WE have him. Which is it?
Good post BHP. Some people just like to complain and are not satisfied unless they have something to complain about. Oue receiving corp is definitely improved over last season.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:50 pm
I’m really eager to see what Tyvon Branch and a healthy Cooper can do for us on Special Teams this season.
May 10th, 2008 at 8:57 pm
Raiders penalty post 85
And besides, when you take a look at the numbers, it´s really not gonna take much to improve:
-68.5 QB Rating–(29th)
-57% completion average–(25th)
-2631 yards–(31st)
-17 TD´s–(24th)
-20 Ints.–(ranked 31st in Int %, which means percentage of times intercepted when attempting to pass).
-Can´t find how many fumbles lost, and how many fumbled snaps.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
size and speed….dang!
we are very much improved at wr.
jacksonville will find out poter is not as good as porter thinks he is !
May 10th, 2008 at 9:04 pm
we lost 17 fumbles last year
May 10th, 2008 at 9:05 pm
I remember hearing about what a weak WR group we had last year, and then as soon as Jacksonville signed Porter I heard all the experts going on about what a great pickup it was for them. The same guys had nothing good to say about him when he was a Raider. The recieving corp had their shortcomings last year, but the biggest problem with them was inconsistant quarterbacking.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:10 pm
100th
May 10th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
Another thing a kept hearing last year was that we had no deep threat, then when Porter signed with Jacksonville I heard the “experts” saying that they had finally picked up the deep threat they needed.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
KoolAid, Joke-sonville drafted Matt Jones in the first round of 05 to turn him from a QB to WR. That really has not pannned out. Shows you what they know.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
COW - I tend to agree with your assessment that the group as a whole is weak. Hopefully, Walker will return to form and one of these guys will step it up. LK is pretty high on Schilens but remember he was saying basically the same thing about Williams last year when he brought him in. Time will tell… One thing is for sure Miller will double his numbers this season.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:24 pm
Oak that’s a low blow, that team IMO has made very few mistakes in the draft and FA, they are on the verge of being a top 5 franchise in the NFL, if the QB continues to improve.
WE don’t have to agree with it but they paid Porter like a #1 he’s proven in their eyes. If they’re wrong time will prove it
May 10th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
I should’ve said very few costly mistakes.
May 10th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Priest they HAVE done an excellent job of buidling their team, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Their wide reciever corp is a little suspect tho. I’m just poking some fun at them, but you’re right, they have done a very good job building their team. Their first and second round choices play like lst and 2nds. With the exception of Matt Jones
May 10th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
Leftwich hurt them but they rebunded well Gerrard.
But OK I get ya’
But to the obvious they feel Porter is an upgrade. We on the other hand viewed him as very average. So we’ll see.
May 10th, 2008 at 10:47 pm
i think bush & mcd are going to redefine ‘thunder & lightning’. throw fargas in there & i think we will have the best running game or at least top3- in the league - assuming our o-line improves on last year like it should.
i think jr is going to be a happy camper once he gets his game established.
May 10th, 2008 at 10:52 pm
Porter’s talent was always much better then average, but his production was always too inconsistent for my taste. JP never turned into the WR I thought he would when Timmy and Rice left. He is a superb #2 WR in this league, but I think his career really ran it’s course in Oakland.
I believe JWalk has a better chance to be the #1 WR the Raiders need then Porter, so I’m happy with the trade-off.
May 10th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
“Nearly all 85 players in camp were involved in a squabble Saturday that began when offensive tackle Oniel Cousins and defensive tackle Amon Gordon threw punches after running back Allen Patrick was taken down hard on a burst up the middle. All the players surged toward the middle of the field, and it was nearly two minutes before peace was restored”
……
Just shut down this stupid league.
May 10th, 2008 at 10:56 pm
Next on the menu: Stadium riots. Watch. I guarantee you there’ll be a stadium riot at an NFL game within 3 years, like I predict the Raiders won’t top the 5 win mark with Al Davis at the helm.
And when the riot does happen? No arrests will be made. They’ll just ban alcohol. That’s what they do when the upper class gets violent. And, it won’t be a Raider game. As crazy as you kool aid drinking homers are, Raider fans are the best fans in the game. It’ll be Phily or NY. Watch.
May 10th, 2008 at 11:08 pm
Jjvill I too am happy about it but read half the post in here especially by COW and it’s as if the guy’s got nothin’ left because he got hurt as if n one has recovered from an injury I mean it’s freakin’ laughable.
Before we got Drew Carter people raved about the kid once we got ‘em he’s suspect, I saw Todd watkins at BYU and this kids wheels are tremendous excellent athlete great deep speed and would’ve been a hell of a player but got sidetracked. But played in a pro-style offense just wait until you see this kid you’ll love ‘em. JLH caught everything they threw at him in college just great hands runs great routes just needs to stronger and and get his confidence up. And I haven’t mentioned Curry but our WR position might be the worst in the NFL.
Then we have the draft Shields sounds like he has a chance to be a real find. If you were to add Chad Johnson to that or even that nutcase Chris Henry that could turn out to be a very talented recieving corp.
What the hell else do yo need??
May 10th, 2008 at 11:14 pm
I truly believe when it’s all said and done, that Chad Johnson will be a Raider. It would be so typical Al Davis to make a move like that. Plus Chad Johnson has already publicly made a statement to the effect that he would like to play for the Raiders.
There’s a long time left before the start of the season and stranger things have happened in the NFL.
May 10th, 2008 at 11:16 pm
I say give this offense 2 years max and it will be the most dangerous in the NFL bar none, I’m not saying more wont be added in fact I can almost gaurantee a super talent at WR will be added. Anyway my point is Big Al and Lane Kiffin wont rest until they set the NFL on it’s ear……………period
May 10th, 2008 at 11:26 pm
BHP, Lane Kiffin just wants to win, rather it’s with hot shots, or hard working players that the league has never heard of.
I know what Kiffin doesn’t want, jerks that either put themselves above the team (Javon Talker) or time bombs who either give you 100%, or 0% (MeAngelo Hall).
Don’t throw Kiffin on Al Davis’s sinking ship. Kiffin is trying to change the environment in Oakland, not give it a fat teaspoon of More Of The Same. (Sapp, Moss, bring us your disgruntled masses…)
Dysfunctional Al won’t rest until he sets the NFL on it’s ear. Kiffin, on the other hand, is just trying to build a winning football team. Or, at least he was. Now he’s just collecting his check and showing up Al, and has a front row seat to the train wreck.
Oakglenn, don’t bother responding. You’re on ignore tonight.
May 10th, 2008 at 11:29 pm
Cincy turned down a sweet deal from Wash for Chad…no way the Raiders offer more, at least I hope not. I’m perfectly happy rolling with JWalk, Curry, and Carter as the vets with JLH, Shields & Chaz trying to earn some PT. if JWalk is healthy I think it is actually an above average WR corp. His health is the key.
May 10th, 2008 at 11:31 pm
Priest, we have already lost a SB with the best offense in the league. Sure there where a few bizarre circumstances, but we did get beat. The Giants proved the old adage, ‘Defense Wins Championships’ against this year most dangerous offense. Sure we did get som UFA’s on the D but I think if we really want to be champions a drastic change on the defensive side needs to happen.
May 10th, 2008 at 11:45 pm
IDIB, a drastic change is way overstating it. We need pressure on the QB and to play disciplined gap responsible defense and tackle………..period
If the guy’s we have can’t pressure the QB then we’ll get someone who can simple as that.
Our weakness last year was tackling more than anything yeah we had other problems but if we had tackled we would’ve been a lot better defense. Brotha that’s a little more talent and a lot more attitude. Now getting to the QB is pure talent and we need to make sure we have it, if we do’t we need to get it.
Once that’s done our offense should be able put enough points on the board to win a SB. I give it 2 years
May 10th, 2008 at 11:45 pm
im so excited
May 10th, 2008 at 11:49 pm
And BTW we were a better team than TB but their coach knew our QB like the back of his hand. Game set match. he wasn’t a better coach and they weren’t a bette team it was a matter of varitable inside job. We drew the wrong card.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:04 am
MistaBrown, post 64:
You’re so freaking right on. We need to stop all this conservative bullcrap and just do it…freaking blitz.
PS: When Kiffen and his father, Monte, talk, I hope his dad is telling him that there is more upside to blitzing and keeping the other side guessing. Our conservative approach has produced nothing.
Maybe Kif can tell RR that we can’t do any worst than last year. And, please, RR, stop droping your DE into coverage when we have them on 3rd and long. This prevent bullcrap only prevents you from winning.
May 11th, 2008 at 2:41 am
Latest Roster prediction @ 11th May
QB: Russell, Walter, Keller
RB: McFadden, Bush, Fargas
FB: O’Neal, Griffith
TE: Miller, Madsen, Stewart
WR: Walker, Carter, Curry, Higgins, Shields, Watkins
OT: Harris, Green, Henderson, McQuistan
OG: Gallery, Carlisle, Morris, Palmer
C: Wade, Spieker
CB: Asomugha, Hall, Routt, Bowie, Johnson
S: Wilson, Huff, Branch, Cooper
LB: Morrison, Howard, Hartwell, Alston, Thomas, Gbaja-Biamila
DE: Burgess, Richardson, Spikes, Edwards
DT: Kelly, Sands, Warren, Joseph
K: Jankowski
P: Lechler
LS: Condo
Practice Squad:
Gunheim, Jackson, Rankin, Rodd, Scott, Schilens
May 11th, 2008 at 5:07 am
Speed comparisons between McFadden and Bush are eagerly awaited.
May 11th, 2008 at 5:33 am
how can you compare the speed of Bush 250lbs and DMC 210lbs. Of course DMC is faster. But, comparison of running through the traffic, ability to cut back and juke are awaited. Who s got the best running style for this offense.
Apparently both have very good hand. Very good point.
May 11th, 2008 at 5:39 am
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/05/11/SP4610KFVG.DTL&feed=rss.raiders
May 11th, 2008 at 5:58 am
here’s my outrageous prediction for the month:
we’re gonna have a brand new receiving corps…
i.e. no-one from last years team is gonna be here come the first regular season game…
i.e. all new people on offense, with the exception of Fargas, and he will be 3rd string…
May 11th, 2008 at 6:39 am
Damn you ALL… for the first time in over 5 years am I optimistic IN MAY!!, its a very weird feeling =) especially after so long time
May 11th, 2008 at 6:49 am
—”The Raiders used Darren McFadden extensively as a pass catcher during their rookie minicamp Saturday.
McFadden caught passes out of the backfield and when he was split out wide, reportedly looking very natural. It’s only a rookie camp, but Michael Bush has also reportedly looked smooth. Since McFadden will likely be splitting carries, it’s important for his fantasy value to catch passes. May. 10 - 7:17 p.m. ET”—
—”Coach Lane Kiffin says his backfield competition is wide open.
Perhaps as a motivator for Michael Bush, who reportedly is having a good rookie camp. “To have (McFadden and Bush) along with Justin (Fargas), who is more of a classic running back, is exciting … We’ll open the competition up and who knows? Michael Bush may be the best of the three.” Bush remains a darkhorse, but he can carve out a role with a strong offseason.
May. 10 - 9:21 p.m. ET”—
May 11th, 2008 at 7:35 am
Nothing will change until Davis relinquishes control one way or another. Defense is going to be another disaster. Why Ryan was’nt fired sealed the deal for me. I’m done giving any emotional attachment to this team until a new owner comes in. Canceled my NFL pass package. Hope for the best but prepared for the worst
May 11th, 2008 at 7:44 am
Davidon, see you after Davis is gone and we’ve won a cuple more SB’s. I can’t imagine why you’re still here? 31 other teams to follow.
May 11th, 2008 at 8:39 am
davidon Says:
May 11th, 2008 at 7:35 am
Nothing will change until Davis relinquishes control one way or another. Defense is going to be another disaster. Why Ryan was’nt fired sealed the deal for me. I’m done giving any emotional attachment to this team until a new owner comes in. Canceled my NFL pass package. Hope for the best but prepared for the worst
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
blah blah … blah blah … blah blah blah
see ya… mr fairweatherfan…
what is always amusing to me… is when the quitters quit just before the going gets good…
you’re the guy who can’t make it that last few feet…
really… this team isn’t for you…
i suggest the patriots…
until they let you down…
please don’t come back…
May 11th, 2008 at 8:40 am
Davidon,
You are either with us or against us. If I were you, I’d go rethink my life.
May 11th, 2008 at 8:49 am
Davidon: Go get back under the rock you just came out from under,it would be better for everyone.
May 11th, 2008 at 8:56 am
Priest - To your point last night about lack of pass rush, the Raiders Sign Spiers. Very timely ;). Is he just a body, will he make an impact, or just a stop gap until they can get a younger guy in there via draft? Didn’t Burgess come in with a similar injury from the previous year?
May 11th, 2008 at 9:00 am
Happy day to all you mothers.
for all the players and units to get 4 months of studying, practicing and meshing until September, excellent
I’m always optimistic about the Raiders and this time there are many reasons to be so.
Good to see that everyone told that one commenter to take a hike elsewhere.
May 11th, 2008 at 9:05 am
M:Family stay together good or bad
May 11th, 2008 at 9:08 am
Our WR’s will be better because we have James Lofton.
Jamarcus will be fine because we have a great running game (#6 in 2007) that just got better. I bet he only throws when necessary and when momentum changes. Kiffin knows when to do something crazy, like an onside kick after a touchdown in the first half. Tommy Kelly will stop the run now that he is in the right position. Seems before Kiffin was here a lot of players where playing out of position on D. I have been very happy with his steps to turn this ship around. The Autumn Wind is coming.
Glenn Dorsey fans… RunDMC ran all over his Defense the last two years. So McFadden will continue to run all over the Queefs.
May 11th, 2008 at 9:09 am
Whoever is hating on J Russ needs to shut their ignorant mouth. Thi dude is gonna be awsome
May 11th, 2008 at 9:15 am
I certainly hope that Hartwell and Joseph pan out. Along with Wilson they should stiffen the run-D. And Sands getting it right after a tough year on and off the field.
I remember my disbelief in reading here the comments by many over the past months who offered “blah blah M.Bush broke his leg blah blah blah unreliable blah blah blah…” some, like BHP, Saint, Assassin and myself have never wavered in our belief that Michael Bush is to be a stud RB for the Silver and Black.Hope everyone is finally onboard with that now.
May 11th, 2008 at 9:20 am
Morning folks
Some comments on McFadden from local writers:
“His reputation precedes him but you don’t really understand what Darren McFadden is until you’ve seen him in motion.
He is not so much running as he is gliding. The stride is so effortless you cannot help but admire it. Not only is it effortless, it is artful in a motion
sense. It is, well, almost pretty. Also satisfying, somewhat like the smooth finish of a fine cabernet.
It is not something you see every day and, trust me, these eyes have watched pro football teams practice for nearly 40 years.”.
Bill Solliday.
“In two days of practice, he has sprinted around the edge, powered inside the middle, run routes as a wideout and caught passes out of the backfield. He even lined up at quarterback.
No play stood out more than the last of Saturday’s practice.
McFadden grabbed a counter pitch, accelerated around the left corner, cut inside a singled-out linebacker and burst down the sideline for what would have been a Touchdown”.
David White
“McFadden showed of his versatility today at practice and was impressive.
McFadden lined up at receiver and running back when playing with Michael Bush. He took some pitches at tailback and his ability to get to the corner was something to watch, even though there was no contact.
He also looked very natural at wide receiver. He catches the ball with his hands, not his body, and looks comfortable in the open field.
I felt bad for linebackers asked to track down McFadden.”
Jason Jones
“McFadden dazzled onlookers with several runs on which he turned the corner and raced past defenders and into the end zone. Practice concluded with McFadden taking a pitchout and blowing past a linebacker for a long run down the left sideline.”
Steve Corkran
May 11th, 2008 at 9:23 am
Pretty cool to hear they were putting Bush out wide as well. Never even considered it, really. I hope we stick with the power running game and not get too cute with it. O’Neal is a hammer, Bush is a hammer and Fargas is just crazy. Beat ‘em down all game then let the rook burn ‘em late. I would rather have 5 yard runs all day than trying a bunch of misdirection, direct snap statue of liberty plays HOPING for a big play.
Let the big boys pave the way, wear ‘em down and then get the kid outside late in open space.
May 11th, 2008 at 9:27 am
…and for Christs sake PLEASE protect Jamarcus!!
amen
May 11th, 2008 at 9:29 am
…and don’t give up big running plays!!
Jesus Mary and Joseph!!
May 11th, 2008 at 9:40 am
ISIB, my first impression of Spires is a stop gap guy and for experience to show the young guy’s how to prepare, it’s something Big Al has always done to help the coaches teach fundamentals. Who knows he may have something left, if so we need it. We must get to the QB………..period. It will cause t/o’s and we can score with them.
May 11th, 2008 at 9:40 am
That was meant for IDIB, sorry.
May 11th, 2008 at 9:41 am
Marley thanks for that. Our running game is going to be something special, the best in the NFL no question.
Put 8 in the box or 9 to stop our run & now our WR’s are sprinting past single coverage for TD’s. The middle of the field should be there for Miller to chew up.
CANT WAIT!
May 11th, 2008 at 9:42 am
Writers on Bush:
“Pity the defender who crosses paths with Raiders running back Michael Bush for the first time. Bush is a load at 6-foot-2 and 245 pounds, with a ball in his hands and the goal line in his sights.
Throw in the fact that Bush hasn’t played in a game for 20 months, his surgically repaired right leg is healed, and he isn’t assured any playing time, and you have the recipe for a player in search of someone to take it out on.
Bush’s readiness no longer is in question. He runs at full speed, makes sharp cuts, catches the ball in traffic, and blends in seamlessly.”
Steve Corkran
Bush and McFadden:
“They have seen a lot of each other this weekend. When they’re not rotating plays, they’re on the field together to give the Raiders’ offense some new looks.
McFadden is known as a speedster, and Bush is different from the other Raiders running backs mainly because he looks more like a linebacker. Listed at 6-foot-1, 245 pounds, he spent a lot of time solidifying his frame in the weight room.
On the field, Bush moves fine and says the knot in his shin is the only reminder of his broken leg. He’s eagerly awaiting the exhibition season so he can hit someone for the first time in almost two years.”
Jason Jones
May 11th, 2008 at 9:43 am
What happened to all the Davis control freaks in here today?
May 11th, 2008 at 9:47 am
They are at church ?
May 11th, 2008 at 9:53 am
brand new quarterback…
brand new running backs…
brand new receivers…
equals…
a brand new offense…
yeah, baby…
that’s raidering…
May 11th, 2008 at 9:53 am
Happy holiday to all you mothers today,…hey I have the mother of all hangovers right about now,..also might have took one too many yellows last night too….was anyone else from here at Rickys yesterday?…man it was a party,..JT was there,..Coach Tom popped in,…the mini was pretty cool,..dont feel like regurgitating my take on it again,..did post about it yesterday in previous blog from Jerry,…the last posts of previous blog. Anyway, heading to the Boardwalk in SC today,…big Moms day reunion,..lots of booze…enjoy the holiday!
May 11th, 2008 at 9:54 am
This has the potential to be the best backfield the Raiers have ever fielded, when you consider the total talent at QB, HB, FB. It’s almost scary to think of what they could accomplish. draft position aside McFadden will torch some defenses, Bush will be one of the most dominating runners in the NFL and Fargas is just a tremendous competitor. Russell will have a bevy of targets to strike with from TE’s to WR’s.
Even when you look at Bo and Marcus with Tim Brown and James Lofton they didn’t have a QB capable of what Russell is capable of.
Here’s an early vote for the new regime. The Silver & Black attack is definitely back. And the Black Hole awaits.
May 11th, 2008 at 9:59 am
If our offense is potent enough teams wont be running on us and forced to pass…see Hall & Aso!
May 11th, 2008 at 10:00 am
Have you guys seen Saturdays Behind the Shield??
Who let Jamarcus shop for McFadden???? What is up with the “how many colors can I put on a shirt” look?
A little help here….
May 11th, 2008 at 10:01 am
I´m as excited about Bush as anyone but I do hope they tell him to take it easy at first, it´s obvious the kid is dying to run over someone and show his stuff.
He´ll have plenty of chances during camp and preseason so let´s take a careful approach at first, no need to take any chances.
May 11th, 2008 at 10:02 am
Saint I thought that show stopped running when the season ended. I’ll set my DV-R for it.
Ch 2 or 5 ?
May 11th, 2008 at 10:07 am
MistaBrown,
Got it from the website.
Hit the read “more button” on the mini-camp central article. Then click on “watch the show” for the 10th.
WONT LET ME PUT THE STUPID LINK ON HERE.
I laughed at Kiffin saying they had a lot of hammy problems because of the pace of practice, “so we’ll fly more guys in and keep going tomorrow”. Oh the humanity!!
May 11th, 2008 at 10:10 am
Ok I know what you’re talking about, thanks
May 11th, 2008 at 10:17 am
Top of the morning to all you beautiful, female, Raiders fans who are mothers, Happy Mothers Day
May 11th, 2008 at 10:19 am
Trevor Scott is a fast learner..
“I know Al Davis is the man around here”
Good answer!
May 11th, 2008 at 10:25 am
He just earned himself a roster spot for the next 5 seasons!..haha.
May 11th, 2008 at 10:29 am
Q: Do you think there will be scenarios where you and Darren or Justin can line up together in the backfield?
Michael Bush: Oh yeah. That’s another good thing about bringing McFadden in, is that we don’t just have to always have that fullback, I-formation in. All of us can catch the ball and run through the middle. It will be an exciting offense this year.
May 11th, 2008 at 10:33 am
[…] - The Raiders used Darren McFadden extensively as a pass catcher during their rookie minicamp Saturday. McFadden caught passes out of the backfield and when he was split out wide, reportedly looking very natural. […]
May 11th, 2008 at 10:40 am
With the way our running game is developing, I would love to add Kyle Brady as the backup TE, that guy is like having an extra Tackle when he´s out there.
May 11th, 2008 at 10:50 am
I think the possibilities of what this offense can be is driving Kiffin nuts as he watches these kids practice.
I wouldn’t at all be surprised to see Fargas, Bush and Mcfadden in the backfield in some hybrid offense just to give DC something else to prepare for. And when you think of that wildhog formation with DMC and Bush and Fargas especially with Bush and DMC’s ability to pass and catch. Kiffin is mentally drawing up plays as we speak.
May 11th, 2008 at 10:54 am
BOB they have 2 guy’s like him already in Stewart and Miller both excellent inline blockers.
I’m telling you Kiffin’s imagination is running wild, Someone mentioned earlier he will have to be careful not to get too cute with all the new toys.
May 11th, 2008 at 11:05 am
I’m glad to see the pre-draft anti McFadden posters are getting as excited as I am. Having said that, my Bush had not played in 2 yrs comments are being overridden by the way he has performed at the Rookie camp. I can’t wait to see them against real NFL competition.
May 11th, 2008 at 11:07 am
Koren Robinson ?
May 11th, 2008 at 11:08 am
GOOOOOOOOOOO LAKERS!
Draft McFadden!
May 11th, 2008 at 11:10 am
BHP…..I´d prefer Brady over Stewart as Miller´s backup and blocking specialist any day, but you are right, it´s not exactly a pressing need.
May 11th, 2008 at 11:12 am
I guess maddenraider didn’t want to respond to #41. This after stalking someone the other day to respond to him.
May 11th, 2008 at 11:13 am
Lakers will go up 3-1 today
GOOOOOOOOOO Lakers!
With the 4th pick of the 2008 NFL Draft, the Oakland Raiders select Darren McFadden, Running Back, Arkansas.
May 11th, 2008 at 11:14 am
Or Chris Henry?
May 11th, 2008 at 11:17 am
No baggage carrying negative player pick-ups to ruin the potential chemistry of the Raiders.
May 11th, 2008 at 11:19 am
We need Wr’s
May 11th, 2008 at 11:20 am
And a kick returner
May 11th, 2008 at 11:32 am
sith — we may need WR’s, but more importantly we need a veteran WR who can provide not only great character, but great play. That’s no quick-fix (and Henry’s not playing for anybody for a long time, anyway).
It’ll cost, but Anquan Boldin can be had from the Cardinals. I would be dangling Andrew Walter, a player and a pick for Boldin. Walter would beat-out Leinart in the pre-season, and Boldin gives JaMarcus the “character” vet he needs in the huddle.
The Raiders need another Hall Of Fame-quality receiver yesterday.
May 11th, 2008 at 11:40 am
Should say Walter SHOULD beat Leinart in the pre-season. Leinart would certainly need to step-up his game.
All indications are the team has a KR/PR or two already on the roster.
May 11th, 2008 at 11:42 am
Anquan Boldin would be nice
May 11th, 2008 at 11:44 am
Hayesdaze#37, I don’t think it’s as much of a need as it is a want. We do have 3 veteran WR’s all under 30 and two have good potential. The young guy’s may be what we’re looking for. A top flight WR is icing on the cake. Carter Curry and Walker have all caught 40+ passes in the NFL multiple years, that’s nothing to sneaze at, I really wouldn’t be adverse to ging into camp as is unless we could steal CJ or someone else.
I not nearly as worried about Walker’s health as some are because he’s at 90% already by training he’ll be fine and Curry is a much better reciever than we’re giving him credit for, Carter by all acct’s gives us stretch the field speed, and all this young talent at least 5 players that have a chance to develope and be special.
You don’t need the best of everything just quality everywhere.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
BHP — Except for the fact that 2 of those 3 receivers have terrible injury histories, I would agree with you.
One nick in Walker, and out he goes. When that happens, we’ll have no legitimate #1A guy. Curry can’t carry the load, and nobody else has proven they can either. I like our WR corps IF they pan-out, but there are way more ifs there than we need.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Kinda how I feel about bringing in one more veteran D-lineman to round-out the D; See a need, fill the need. I think Al’s still got a few pieces in his sights.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
Cannot wait to see the look in the eyes of the opposing, LB and/or safety the 1st. time Mike Bush is coming their way with a head of steam.
The word, TERRIFIED comes to mind.
Go Lakers!
May 11th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
The look will be, WTF was that? The 1st. time McFadden blows by on his way to the HOUSE!
May 11th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
i agree with you BHP, our WRs are good, we dont have the best WRs out there, but you dont always need to. look at arizona great WRs no running game no QB(im glad we didnt take matt), look at the lions no running game. in the NFL you need a running ame to win, look at the vikings. we have better WRs than they did last year, better QB,and just as good of a running game.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
if we can improve our run D we can go to playoffs, we have a great running game, smart QB that can make all the throws, and good WRs and TEs.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
and we have on of the best, if not the best secondary in the NFL.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:29 pm
O — Your enthusiasm is clouding your judgment…
Our QB hasn’t proven anything, although he should be great. Our WR’s have much to prove before we say they’re better than any other team’s. Our running game could be, and maybe should be, as good as the Vikes — but once again, the players need to prove it.
Optimism’s great, but we need to mix our expectations with a dose of reality.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
And the secondary hasn’t proven anything together, either. Again — it’s time for them to prove they’re all that before they get recognition as one of the best secondaries in the league.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Hayes, i agree that our QB and SOME WRs are not proven, but our run game is proven we were 6th last season and we improved by bringing fresh legs(bush and dmac), our secondary still has ASO proven, Hall is better than wash, and wilson s better than stu, Hall proved he is good for 5 picks every year and wilson was all over the field for the giants, so yes we do have the best secondary in the Nfl, and dont forget about rout.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
secondary is not an offense, they dont need chemistry to play well, everyoneneeds to do his part and thats it.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
reality is good, whats real is we need to improve our run deffense,QB needs to play good, and our WRs to need to prove to the fans how good they are, curry has nothing to prove to me, walker when healthy is proven,carter and JLH have something to prove.
May 11th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
O — I share your optimism, but I’ve seen and heard this “we’ve got” stuff all too often. What we’ve got is a lot of potential…potential that can be derailed by one twisted ankle, blown knee, or lack of production.
Almost every “if” on this team needs to hold-up his end of the bargain (tough to do, esp with injuries) — or the season will be just another building block. There is no legitimate, proven depth at some of our biggest question areas (WR, D-line).
8-8 is a realistic outcome for this team — anything more would be gravy.