Will McFadden be buried in committee?
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Sunday, July 20th, 2008 at 12:05 pm in Oakland Raiders.
In the days leading up to the first day of training camp, I’ll review the state of the rest of the AFC West and how they match up with the Raiders, as well as all Raiders position groups heading into the first practice on July 24. Today’s entry takes a look at Raiders running backs:
Starters–RB Justin Fargas, FB Justin Griffith.
Reserves–RB Darren McFadden, RB Michael Bush, FB Oren O’Neal, RB LaMont Jordan, RB Adimchinobe Echemandu, RB Louis Rankin.
The last time the Raiders led the NFL in rushing, they did it by committee and were proud of it.
The roles were clear. Tyrone Wheatley was the first-down hammer, rushing 232 times for 1,046 yards. Napoleon Kaufman was the change-of-pace back, carrying 93 times for 499 yards in 14 games before being injured. Zack Crockett was automatic in short-yardage, and Randy Jordan did a little bit of everything, rushing for 216 yards and catching 27 passes.
Terry Kirby didn’t play often, but managed 19 catches as a receiving back. Jon Ritchie was the classic block-and-catch fullback, not getting a single rush from scrimmage but catching 26 passes.
Which brings us to 2008. The Raiders, top-to-bottom, have one of their best groups of running backs ever.
The most talented back, and the best talent since the days of Marcus Allen and Bo Jackson, is rookie No. 4 overall pick McFadden _ and it remains to be seen whether he will start.
How _ and how much _ the Raiders use McFadden this season will be the most intriguing aspect to the club’s most gifted position group.
If McFadden were to become everything the Raiders believe he can be, think along the lines of Marshall Faulk _ a runner/receiver headed for the Hall of Fame who from 1998 through 2001 had more than 2,000 yards rushing and receiving. In 1999, Faulk rushed for 1,381 yards and caught 87 passes for 1,048 more.
Faulk was no gadget back, carrying 314 times for 1,282 yards as a rookie for the Indianapolis Colts and also catching 52 passes.
McFadden probably won’t get anywhere near that amount of work in 2008. And he isn’t likely to get the 182 carries (for 962 yards) and 91 receptions for (941) that Charlie Garner got for the Raiders pass-first offense in 2002.
The Raiders return Fargas, who didn’t start until Week 7, missed the last two games to injury and still gained 1,009 yards. They also get their first real look at Bush, given a year to rehab a broken leg. Bush is a 240-plus pound load who has the power to lower his shoulder but who is also nimble enough to make tacklers miss and is a superior receiver to Fargas.
Attrition could take care of some workload issues, with running back being a physically demanding position and Fargas’ running style making him particularly vulnerable.
If they manage to keep each other healthy, even allowing for putting two of the three potential lead runners in the backfield at the same time, it’s worth examining whether any system which doesn’t give McFadden the chance to be another Faulk _ or even a Garner _ is the wisest course of action.
As productive as Fargas was, and as fascinating as Bush is, McFadden is the guy with $26 guaranteed and the kind of speed to immediately change a game. If he is up to it, you give him the ball and throw him the ball as many times as he can take it.
Echemandu won a job in training camp last season but the talent pool appears too steep this year. Rankin could be practice squad material.
What’s to like
Assuming the Raiders utilize a share-the-load approach, all runners seem to be on board.
Fargas is an extremely loyal Raider, a guy who really believes in all the slogans and tradition even though the team has been a mess through most of his tenure. McFadden willingly shared time with Felix Jones at Arkansas and seems to enjoy everything about practice and playing football. Bush will be happy to play at all after being out for a year.
Jordan is merely biding his time until he is sent packing. For the Raiders to sign their last two draft picks, and if they are serious about signing recently released safety Greg Wesley, Jordan will need to go. Don’t be surprised if Kiffin announces his depature Wednesday when he meets with the press for the first time in Napa.
Fargas is a tough and inspirational runner who showed no signs of an MCL strain which kept him out the last two games of the season.
The receiving skills of McFadden and Bush will give JaMarcus Russell important checkdown options which could result in big gains.
Griffith is one of the NFL’s smallest fullbacks but has good cut-blocking skills as well as an excellent knowledge of the offense. He is one of the guys Kiffin counted on to keep the locker room free of divisive influences.
O’Neal is a more physical blocker than Griffith and could be important as a chip blocker helping to protect Russell.
What’s not
McFadden had a fumbling problem in college, although the Raiders contend it was overblown due to the amount of drops which came on kickoff returns and as a quarterback. The ball was secure in his hands during minicamps and OTAs, but that’s not the same as an NFL game.
Kiffin is hinting that Bush could be pigeon-holed as a short-yardage back, and it remains to be seen whether that will be his strength. True, there are some fearsome clips of Bush knocking over would-be defenders, but most of them are in the open field and not at the line of scrimmage.
Fargas is a below average receiver, something Kiffin conceded gave the Raiders problems as they reached the red zone.
The Raiders would love O’Neal to emerge as a starter and develop into a Lorenzo Neal-type blocking threat, but so far he has been prone to nagging injuries such as muscle pulls.
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July 20th, 2008 at 12:14 pm
WHAT IT DOO RAIDER NATION - TRAINING CAMP ALMOST HEAR!!
July 20th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
1st! inspired writing, good piece of work.
July 20th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
The Raiders running backs,(THE SURGE) will run around, thru, and over, the opposing defence this year.
Go Raiders.
raiderdave.
July 20th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
Can’t wait to see what Michael Bush can do in full contact scrimmage
July 20th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
The question is, are we going to have a Kiffin camp, or a Davis Camp Wuss? If it’s the latter, we’d might as well skip camp altogether. Our team won’t be prepared for the season.
July 20th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Mistabrown Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 12:10 pm
Well we played 16 games in 2007 feel free to look at the other 14 Oak. I know those 2 games fit your argument but we arent as stupid as youd like us to be.
Unfortunately you really are. That’s the point. But don’t worry, you’re boy MR is here to save you.
But lets keep going here. We had two games where the defense gave up 13 and 12 points and we lost. Then I gave a breakdown on the SD, Indy, and GB, games. Then we had two victories against Denver and KC where the defense actually played fairly well. So let’s keep going here:
Then there is the Chicago Bears game here in Oakland. The Bears had THREE POINTS, THREE, let me do that again, 3 points with 4 minutes to go IN THE FREAKING GAME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Somehow the defense didn’t play well in that one I guess. Chicago scored a long TD, and got a cheap score on a McCown fumble late in the game. Take away the cheap McCown gift and the defense gave up 10 points and lost. Let’s keep going here. The Houston Texan game again on the surface would seem another bad game to the casual fan. However when you offense gets no points, zero, NONE, thru three quarters, what do you expect the defense to do???? I know the fans want a defense to go pitch a shut out every time out there. But again only a moron would think that. I have now covered half the season. If you don’t get it at this point, you’re not going to.
July 20th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
The reason Mr. Davis drafted DMAC is because if you have seen the amount of times Fargas got to the second level of the defense only to be tackled by linebackers and safeties. This DMAC has the top end to take it to the house. I have heard people say that Fargas had this speed when he came to the Raiders, I never saw it. The thing Raider Fans must know is DMAC held the ball wrong in college, this is a coach able situation and will not be a factor its the same problem Tiki Barber had and was corrected. Michael Bush is going to be a force, to tell you the truth Fargus might be gone by October. The thing the Raiders will do is throw allot of safe passes to DMAC check downs and let me tell you something you have to tackle DMAC or will make you pay.
July 20th, 2008 at 12:51 pm
Oakglenn, what are you talking about? Me and MistaBrown are the same person. We’re also “Fire Kiffin”. We’re also a Niner fan, a Buc fan, a Charger fan, and a Chief fan, all at once! This is what your sound intelligence has gathered so far. Oakglenn, rather it’s spinning how bad the team is or tracking trolls, you’re a genius. You really are.
Now, Oakie, you explained the Jacksonville loss last year. Said we had a “Bad Day”. That’s an astute explanation. Could not have been more detailed. Now please, entertain us all with an explanation for the other 60 losses. All bad days? Evidently so. How about a bad career, for that fraud of an owner Al Davis?
Also, Oakglenn, you said on the recent page that Al Davis needs help with personnel, preferably someone younger. Why younger? There’s plenty of people Al’s age that can do it. Al just doesn’t know football. That’s the problem. That’s what you’re in denial of.
July 20th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
the issue life is you just can’t send RB’s in there and expect them to perform in the modern NFL like they did in college. It’s a completely different game. The blocking schemes are so much more sophisticated at the pro level. I would expect Dmac to get some work, but not near the work load everyone here expects.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
If we are serious about picking up greg westley that would be a big improvement over our other backups he looks pretty good
July 20th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
OMG, Oakglenn’s making sense for a change. See what happens when you Davis kool aid drinkers just start to face the fact that he’s really not a genius? What do you know, actual football knowledge starts to dribble out of your mouths. SNB666, take notes. You’re still struggling with the reality that Al Davis is a know nothing fraud. But OG’s facing it, and he’s on a role. I don’t want to get in the way.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
all i know is, i had a backfield of Fargas and Bush last year in my Madden 2008, and I was able to give JaMarcus a pro bowl year playing on All Madden Mode.
Moral of this story, Bush is a beast and should not be limited to being a short yardage back.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
We probably have the deepest backfield in the NFL. Three talented, but different RBs. Two excellent, but different FBs. Plenty of ammunition, plenty of options. It will all depend on the OLine. If Cable can work his magic, then we have every reason to be very confident.
And I have a suspicion that O’Neal and Bush will emerge as the real heroes of next season. Mr Pain O’Neal is like a human bowling ball - he will be giving LBs nightmares. Bush is Mr Punishment - show no mercy, give no quarter. Those two possess a physicality that we have lacked for so long.
O’Neal and Bush, Pain and Punishment, will tire, hurt and demoralise defences….and then we release the beast that is McFadden.
Its going to be fun.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
Jerry…
cant wait to see your piece about receivers… who will be #4 and #5?? Higgins, the 3 rookies, Holland and Watkins…
I can’t wait to hear how this turns out…
July 20th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
I hope Kiffin benches McFadden. a) we never needed him to begin with. b) it would be the perfect way to show Al up.
Kiffin’s focused on winning, not giving Al’s scholarship players their due. They can ride pine for all he cares.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Actually you guys as I have been saying the guy out of nowhere is Todd Watkins. He’s actually looked good in practice this off season.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
What Jerry forgot to mention, is that Justin Griffith has really good hands as well, better than bush, an his is quite good…
July 20th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
Listen to you Scottish. Just imagine 500 lbs of running backs coming your way with a head of steam.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
LMN, you bring up a good option there. What happens if you had Mike Bush play the FB roll on some passing downs with Dmac??? I’m sure they are working on that.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
# Oakglenn Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Actually you guys as I have been saying the guy out of nowhere is Todd Watkins. He’s actually looked good in practice this off season.
______________________________________________________
yeah I thought that too, but after the draft we acquired 3 receivers… that means he hasn’t convinced Kiffin, perhaps Knapp since we must assume he was the guy who brought him in…
July 20th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Oakglenn..
the receiving skills of McFadden, Griffith and Bush means Madsen won’t see any PT (PlayingTime… thx K-Rock)
I love double TE’s but with those guys we would McFadden as TE and Bush in the BackField… and as i said earlier, Reece could take Madsens spot as receiving TE..
July 20th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
Scottish….
you forgot to mention Fargas’ kamikaze raids on their LB’s and end’s
July 20th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
I think we were going to bring in a ton of receivers any way LMN. Watkins really has done well. The big knock on him was he has the entire package-size, speed, runs good routes. He just couldn’t catch. While that’s not entirely true, it’s true to some extent. In Mini’s, he’s catching EVERYTHING!! He is someone I like.
Madsen is a nice player, runs good routes, has a knack for getting open, but somewhere is not catching on, with either the coaching staff, or with Jam.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
I agree, Madsen is under real threat and needs an excellent camp to survive. Stewart is a better blocking TE, than Madsen. Wakefield can cover three different positions and may take a roster spot because of his versatility. Reece may be a better after-the-catch runner and a more flexible weapon.
I like Madsen, but I am not sure that he has Kiff’s confidence. The odds are against him. I think Kiff will probably favour Stewart as insurance in case the Oline is really struggling in pass-protection.
I also think that Watkins is playing himself into the 5th WR slot - after Walker, Carter, Curry and Higgins. The likelihood is that Kiff will want a 6th WR, which might be a shoot-out between Schilens and Shields, unless McFoy learns how to catch?
July 20th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
LMN, I think Fargas’ role will be as a first-half weapon of attrition. He and Griffith will be used to establish the run and to keep the opposing defense on the field for as long as possible. Then, Bush and O’Neal will start to inflict the real damage.
This won’t be running by Committee. This will be an escalation of terror. Fargas will soften ‘em up. Then Bush will batter ‘em senseless. And then, McFadden will apply the slice’n'dice.
July 20th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
MR: i feel like everyone here becomes dumber everytime we have to read your comments..
July 20th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
We don’t really need a breakdown of the AFC West or any division for that matter…just go to the team depth chart and do your own analysis..don’t wait for Jerry..
July 20th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
Scottish, Damn you are speaking the truth and nothing but the truth! Great post #25
July 20th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
raiderforlife Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
“The reason Mr. Davis drafted DMAC…”
………….
I thought Kiffin wanted McFadden?
July 20th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
MR: If Kiffin wanted him as you say in the last post. Why would he bench him to spite Davis as you said in an earlier post?
July 20th, 2008 at 3:34 pm
Harry Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
“I have a lot of issues with the “Al Davis sucks” crowd too. How many teams play for a Super Bowl every decade?”
…………..
The Raiders didn’t play in a Super Bowl in the 1990s, unless you want to count Ron Wolf winning one in ‘96, as Green Bay’s GM. But then you’d have to give Wolf credit for SB’s 18, 15, and 11, as well. So let’s not go there. The 1990s were a silver and black age for the Raiders. And as long as we’re talking Super Bowls, do you honestly want to count SB 37? Many would argue that the Raiders never played in that one, either.
July 20th, 2008 at 3:35 pm
# Midwest fan Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
MR: If Kiffin wanted him as you say in the last post. Why would he bench him to spite Davis as you said in an earlier post?
……
When did I say that Kiffin wanted McFadden?
July 20th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
I was referring to so many others in here insisting that Kiffin wanted him, when I suggested that Al Davis has stripped Kiffin of any personnel decisions.
July 20th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
good post Jerry! im real excited to see bush get his chance to finally pond opposing defenses, since he was hurt comming out off college hes kinda been the forgotten man,i do remember hearing that day when we drafted him that we got a steal because he was heisman material before the injury. while yes i am estatic about mcfadden i want to see my man bush show what we’ve been missing a back who make defenders take bad angles.
July 20th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
# Harry Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
“Every year we get a team, and AD does what he can to fill in the peices missing from the year befores team.”
……
Considering we had the worst run defense in all of football last year, how could you say that Al filled all voids, when all he did to address the run defense was give one of our porous run stoppers a raise?
July 20th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
your right MR you would think that AD would have given his boy RR some more help since he totally dismissed kiffins suggestion to gt rid of him so he can bring in his own guys, this very well may come back to haunt us because we have undeniable unknowns about the guys down in the middle
July 20th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
Oakglenn Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 11:38 am
“Dmac is going to make our DEFENSE better.”
……..
Considering how bad our run defense is, we’d have to score on just about every offensive possession in order for our offense to essentially be our defense. If our talent keeps their head in the game (Walker), turns out be as good as we hoped (Russell), and is used wisely (Kiffin heavily involved with playcalling, none of this vertical game nonsense) it will help our defense. But this hinges on some huge factors. It’s not a given, as you’re making it sound. Walker is already distracted… and he just got off the bus. Russell is going to face heavy pressure. Opposing DC’s are not sold on the Raider Nation’s theory that J Russ is ready to face heavy pressure, based on his one performance vs. a vanilla SD defense that called off its dogs at the half. We have no idea what the Kiffin status is. Would have helped if Kiffin just outright denounced the entire story as a whole. But he didn’t do that. It could still be true that Kiffin is only coach in name only, and will have no say so in playcalling. If that’s the case, the ensuing turmoil would be impossible for a team to stay focused and win under.
July 20th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
Good analogy usage Scottish.
Honestly, I’m just bewildered with the amount of weapons we have back there and how we’re going to use them. There is just so much talent and potential talent in the backfield its mind-boggling.
If MB proves he’s still got it ..Can you honestly restrict that kinda weapon to short yardage situations? The thought is just crazy - ludicrous!
I love the heart and dedication Fargas brings but if these backs have more talent (and can pick up the game just as well), you just have to relent and give them the playing time as their talents demand. Otherwise, you’re holding back the offense.
If the OLine holds up I just don’t know how anyone can defend this.
July 20th, 2008 at 4:30 pm
Just so you know J-Mac,
I am not fooled.
I can tell that someone else wrote the first part of this article and you finished it up.
Am I complaining? No, it is a welcome change to hear an upbeat take on the Raiders.
I could tell you took over later because of the negative slant on all the backs.
I write in hopes that your editor…if he isn’t a 49′er fan as well (which he probably is)… will see this and make you talk a little more positively.
I agree with you Jerry that Al is insane and needs to go but don’t dismiss the young talent which are both coaching and playing in and throughout the Raiders.
July 20th, 2008 at 4:34 pm
yeah thats the thing I really dont like that kind of concept, that the offense “have” to try to outscore every team to protect the defense, of course we have to outscore the other team to win games but we must be a balanced team on both sides of the ball. Even though we have tons talent on the offensive side, but thats all it is to other teams looking at us. One thing for sure what teams will do is try and make J-russ beat them, he will with out a doubt have to be ready for the blitz and different defensive looks, and it will be important for the o-line whoever has the responsibility of calling the line signals must be a real good commuticator we must protect our investment in J-russ. Maybe our d-line will have pride and get it done especially #90
July 20th, 2008 at 4:40 pm
I hope we dont sign wesley I mean do we really need another safety? I just dont get it. Why not bring in a DT or better yet an OL? Come on AD I’d go after Grady Jackson or sam adams they are still looming out there we need the beef upfront so the other guys like our fast LBs can fly around and get to the ball
July 20th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
Running backs are going to get hurt. It’s a fact of life. Look at us last year: lst Lamont, then Huggy Jr, then Dominick. Having depth will help, altho with such different types of backs if one guy goes down there will be an adjustment period for the linemen and Jam to pick up the next guys style of game.
July 20th, 2008 at 6:00 pm
As long as Farglass wont be the starter towards the tail end ofthe season I’ll be happy. McFadden/Bush will be the most lethal RB combo in the NFL very soon. Oren O’neal will eventually be our starting fullback as long as he gets better catching the ball. I still like Justin Griffith for the upcoming season because he can black and he can catch. I like our future in the backfield alot. Drafting McFadden will be the best draft pick in Raider history!!! Having him team with Bush and Russell will make our offense very dynamic.
July 20th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
MRS= moronic person. No year in the NFL is the same. The defense last year has issues with people who cant tackle, cover or play the run. Also we lacked any threat fromthe RDE position. Those issues are being accounted for.
No Warren Sapp means a huge upgrade on the run defense. Tommy Kelly has played well in his career when he has been a UT. Sands/Warren will be a decent enough NT combo as long as both are healthy. You also miss the fact William joseph is a very underrated signing. I’m not the hugest Burgess fan but he can rush the passer……I expect Jay Richardson to get more time at LDE to help shore up on obiovus run downs this season because Kalimba Edwards or Trevor Scott figure to be the best options for RDE. We must find a pass rusher there. No Stu with Huff not being the SS will help alot. Gibril Wilson is a for sure tackler and Huff’s speed will be more utilized at FS. Stu provided zero for us and Huff is much more talented.
Keep slipping on the Raiders and Al’s moves. Don’t come kissing ass at the end of the November when the Raiders are in first place cuz we have no love for doubters
Brien<——–big time advocate of kool aid……………where’s the sugar?
July 20th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
Well guys, four more days to Training camp. I can hardly wait. Hope we have a good camp and no injuries.
There was an article in the newspaper today, by John McFarland, of the Associated Press, saying that LT from the discharges was campaigning in Times Square. He was giving out bumper stickers, stating that he should be everyone’s Number One pick in this years 2008 Fantasy Picks. I hope Gibril Wilson knocks his head silly. Any little injury LT gets and he’ll sit out the game.
John McFarland went on to list his top ten picks in three different areas:
Top 10 QB’s:
Tom Brady, Patriots
Peyton Manning, Colts
Tony Romo, Cowboys
Drew Brees, Saints
Carson Palmer, Bengals
Derek Anderson, Browns
Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks
B. Roethlisberger, Steelers
Eli Manning, Giants
Jay Cutler, Broncos
Top Ten RB’s:
L. Tomlinson, Chargers
Adrian Peterson, Vikings
Brian Westbrook, Eagles
Joseph Addai, Colts
Steven Jackson, Rams
Frank Gore, 49ers
Clinton Portis, Redskins
Ryan Grant, Packers
Marion Barber, Cowboys
Willis McGahee, Ravens
Top Ten WR’s:
Randy Moss, Patriots
Reggie Wayne, Colts
Terrell Owens, Cowboys
Steve Smith, Panthers
Braylon Edwards, Browns
Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals
Torry Holt, Rams
Brandon Marshall, broncos
T.J. Houshmandzaden, Bengals
Marques Colston, Saints
I hope JR, DM and JW prove this idiot wrong. Not one Raider listed anywhere. There is no way our three guys
aren’t going to break the “top-ten” in each of those of
those areas.
Go Raiders.
July 20th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
You’re right Riverside, LT is a crybaby who is seriously leaking oil (see last years AFC Championship Game)
Brien, MoRon was just voted lowest general IQ by his own poll. He couldn’t figure out everyone here knew he was the one running it.
July 20th, 2008 at 7:21 pm
The Raiders have two running backs whom nobody has seen carry the ball yet. I would hesitate to say that this is the best group of Raiders running backs ever. They may have the potential to become the best, but let’s not jump the gun here.
July 20th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
jason taylor traded to skins for 2nd and 6th. we couldn’t do that????
July 20th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Gibril Wilson will make our run defense better, as will a likely shut down secondary of Huff, Hall, and Aso. A steady diet of rotation on the line should help the boys up front. Kelly has a lot to play for, literally.
The Jordan watch is on…
July 20th, 2008 at 7:46 pm
damn jason taylor!! we don’t need him. kalimba edwards and trevor scott needs to be the RDE players this season. we cant pay 8 million and 9 million the next two seasons. taylor got one more year left anyways…he is doing the hollywood thing after this
July 20th, 2008 at 7:47 pm
Just Win baby- I understand being cautious but no the Raiders haven’t had this sort of ability at RB in years. We know one ofthe RBs has been a backup whose whole career and is just average at best. The future is bright at the RB slot for the first time in many years.
July 20th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Its all about the Raider nation but seriously, ownership just doesn’t get it. We can have a ton of all-pros at the skill positions but unless we fix our o-line and d-line we will not make the progress that everyone anticipates. Why did we overpay for Kelly? Also, until Big Al steps aside and lets the head coach be the voice of the franchise our boys will not play up to their potential. Gruden showed us the blue print…lets hope Al lets Kiffin do the same.
July 20th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
trevor scott won’t make the team.
July 20th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
Jim,
The package is in the mail…should be there tomorrow or Tuesday…
enjoy
July 20th, 2008 at 8:33 pm
sorry, that sounded kinda gay…
Jim, your jersey is in the mail…
enjoy…
July 20th, 2008 at 8:35 pm
2nd and a 6th for one or two years of an old Jason Taylor, who is now focusing on his acting career, is waaaaay too much…
July 20th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
Dakota yes. We need to get a RDE that will be a featured pass rusher for years to come in Oakland. I truly feel that is what the defense lacks…….
July 20th, 2008 at 8:46 pm
Jerry needs to speak more about it. This is is why I’m very critical of him. He misses the point like very always has. The Raiders have been lacking playmakers on the defense and offense. Offense needs someone who is can score TDs and the defense needs a difference maker. Nothing like a DE to be a bigtime difference maker.
July 20th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
If we were on the cusp of winning it all and we just needed a DE to put us over the top, ala Dallas/Charles Haley, then sure, 2nd and 6th, but for a team like us (or Washington for that matter) that is rebuilding with youth, we need those picks, so I for one am glad we didn’t trade for a guy like Taylor…what a waste that would have been…
July 20th, 2008 at 8:50 pm
Brien Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
Dakota yes. We need to get a RDE that will be a featured pass rusher for years to come in Oakland. I truly feel that is what the defense lacks…….
_____________________________________________________
that and a new d-coordinator
July 20th, 2008 at 8:57 pm
been gone for the last month-had to get away from all the smoke from the fires here in nor cal.Dakota,you are totally correct.Brien,did you watch B.Sims manhandle Taylor last year?his best days are way behind him.we also supposedly drafted someone on off. who will score TDs by the name of D.Mcfadden.we signed 2 def players who are supposed to be difference makers-Wilson and Hall.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
We need to get younger and hungrier. Not older, more tired and dancing with stars.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
Kiffin is the voice the coach and face of this team. When was last time you heard from Big Al on anything??
Some people just can’t leave well enough alone. What does he need to do?? DIE, even then you’ll ressurect with these same silly accusations.
It’s clear to any objective person that Kiffin has the riegns now let’s see what HE does.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:04 pm
btw Brien,Jerry states he’ll look at the positions leading up to camp and todays happens to be RBs.he’ll get around to the DL in due time.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:10 pm
how ya doing Priest?i find it humorous that AD is always to blame but he somehow gave up all authority during chuckys reign.sure he has screwed up some but he has also done alot right,just like any human being.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
and that last post comes from someone who will never forgive him from moving the team out of it’s rightful home-Oakland.and i know,it wasn’t totally his fault,but i’ll always blame him.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Welcome back Lefty…you didn’t miss much, let me help you catch up:
Dakota is still always right,
MR is still a POS,
Oakglenn is still obsessed with MR and Mistabrown,
LMN is still a soci@list drone,
TW still thinks he will turn into a butterfly when he kicks the bucket,
RaiderDogg, Raider Glory, and Dell and Memo are all still AWOL,
BHP still thinks everything is perfect in the Raider world,
Jerry’s dad passed away, and he manned up and came back to work about a week or so later…I was getting a little worried about him there for a minute…,
M is in Montana searching for old bones,
Florida Pete is not responding,
a new guy named Johnny Rebel is entertainingly wrong on so many subjects…great comic relief,
Scottish is still working on the cap,
COW only chimes in once a week,
Mista is still feuding with Oakglenn,
Saint is AWOL too,
that is about it, We are all just treading water until camp opens…I can’t friggin’ wait!
July 20th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
i hear ya-first practice in 4 days.it’s just too bad nobody can watch it to tell what’s happening.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
A B-52 crashed…
July 20th, 2008 at 9:24 pm
what’up!! Lefty12 it’s all good I have my personal beefs with him too. But he’s giving this kid what he needs and at some point people need to realize he’s got control over what he thinks he can handle. The Team! not the organization.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
I’m going to go to camp Friday. with any help I’ll give a BHP report my way, my style. Maybe even run into Jerry for a short chat.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
ESPN: The Patriots may have major question marks at CB. But with the NFL’s easiest schedule, that shouldn’t matter. The key is staying healthy.
I didnt realize that the Patriots had the easiest shedule in the league. How the hell does that happen after going 16-0. Enough already NFL!!!!
July 20th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Why are folks arguing about last year?? Who cares at this point. Camp is gettin ready to start. The future looks bright.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
Tay-look at their division-Buff,Jets,Mia.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
Tay,
Playing the Phins, Jets and Buffalo each twice a year really helps the Pat’s schedule…
July 20th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Dakota, when was anything ever perfect??
You don’t agree with me and I don’t with you. Simple as that, You wish to cry poor, I’ve been through this crap enough to know it all comes and goes around.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Valid point Lefty. But still thats only 6 games out of 16.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
And they play the NFC West next year too…
July 20th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
BHP,
Cry poor? What does that even mean? Does it mean I think we should do better than 4-12??? I guess so if that is what you mean.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:41 pm
Priest,i agree.this year we’ll see what Kiffin is really all about.so far i believe he has shown alot of promise.i for one love his handling of JR,even though it’s not the most popular stance.teach the young QB how to be a QB,then turn him loose not just turn the kid loose and develop bad habits that might never be correctable.but if Kiffin doesn’t win he’ll be in big trouble and rightfully so!
July 20th, 2008 at 9:45 pm
You would think w/ the RAiders being so deep at RB, I wonder if Kiff can be alittle more aggresive with DMC. Have him pound the rock on Goal line, run Kickoffs, Return Punts. They wouldnt be horrible if their RB missed a few games due to injury like the Chiefs and SD.
This is the 1st time in a long time that I actually want to watch preseason. See how these new faces gel.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:45 pm
Then maybe we do agree on something. No need for perfection in an imperfect sport.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:46 pm
Dakota,you have to admit it would have been hard to do better than 4-12 with the lack of talent we had at the so called “skill” positions last year(JM,DC,JP,etc).and our best def players were hurt most of the year.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:47 pm
Can’t wait to see this live and in living color.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:49 pm
You know how the media is…if the Raiders win some games then Kiff was able to wrestle control from Al Davis. If they stumble then its due to an owner who refuses to let go. Any way AD will be the bad guy. As long as they are winning who cares.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:49 pm
BHP,
I am not looking for perfection…just steady improvement and a little stability at the HC position.
7-9 or better and Kiffin remaining HC and I will be satisfied with 2009…baby steps…
But will AL keep his head with 7-9 or will he blow it up if Kiffin doesn’t get us to 8-8 or better?
July 20th, 2008 at 9:50 pm
what’s nice about our debth at RB is we shouldn’t have to pound one guy to death.we can rotate them all and hopefully keep them healthy and fresh.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Dakota,
I think it will depend on how they go 7-9. If The rAiders are competitive and has an opportunity in each game or lose some close games than Kiff will stay. If they get blown out in those games, paticularly to the Chiefs, SD or Den Kiff head will be on a chopping block. Lofton will slide in.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
my main concern is everyone will forget JR is still essentually a rookie and will therefore make those rookie mistakes that could cost us some games-and AD is thrown in that everyone catagory.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Who knows! Dakota, my own opinion is how the team responds to Kiffin. Only Kiffin can assure himself of remaining HC by gettin this team to compete at the level they are capable.
If Kiffin can’t do the job, I really don’t want him. This is a tough business and very unforgiving. He has to prove that he’s the one for the job…………period.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
Lefty,
Its Kiffs job not to put JRuss in those compromising positions. Like Pitts did Rothslinberger (sp?) rookie year.
July 20th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
Priest,when you go to camp,do they let you in to watch practice or do you have to sneak a peak so to speak?
July 20th, 2008 at 10:00 pm
RaiderTay Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Dakota,
I think it will depend on how they go 7-9. If The rAiders are competitive and has an opportunity in each game or lose some close games than Kiff will stay. If they get blown out in those games, paticularly to the Chiefs, SD or Den Kiff head will be on a chopping block. Lofton will slide in.
_____________________________________________________
That is what I am afraid of..AD and his unreasonable expectations…a roster full of knee injuries, weak d-line and Kwame at LT, unproven or injury prone WRs, Rob Ryan, practically a rookie QB…we will certainly lose a game or two by double digits, and we will lose a game or two in our own division…but will Al take that as growing pains as he should, or will he use it to justify canning Kiffin?
If EVERYTHING goes perfect we might go 10-6, but reality dictates that we will face our fare share of injuries, our wet behind the ears QB will struggle occasionally, our defense will still blow a couple of 4th quarter leads…
we didn’t fix everything in the past 6 months, so I hope Al give Kiffin a fair chance…
but, if we start out 1-3, with this schedule, well…Davis would be justified in dumping Kiffin…
July 20th, 2008 at 10:01 pm
I think “Lance” HAS to post a winning record this year to keep his job, barring some very unforseen circumstances, e.g., major injuries to lots of key positions. Davis has never been known for his patience.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:02 pm
Tay,i agree,but rookies still do things at times that make you shake your head.and if i remember right BR made some pretty stupid moves at times but he had a great D and the bus to bail him out.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:04 pm
You guy’s are so caught up in this, he wont let his coaches coach crap, until you wouldn’t know if a coach was capable or not.
Kiffin is in a better position than more than half the coaches in the league. He has his QB and his RB and more to come as quickly as he can get them in.
I want to see him win games, and make necessary in game adjustments, that will put us in position to win games. Russell has the talent to make him look like a genius. Now show that he knows what to do with it.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:05 pm
lol
July 20th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
Oak-if we’re losing games 35-31,28-27,etc. can’t you see “Lance” staying?
July 20th, 2008 at 10:09 pm
One thing Davis has done which flies in the face of the “Kiff is out crowd” is he’s really improved the offensive coaching staff. The “Kiff is out crowd” interprets that as Davis emasculating Kiff and taking away his power. In Reality what Davis has done is improved the offensive staff around Kiff so that Kiff can do what a head coach is supposed to do: watch over the entire team. With Lofton and Paul hackett helping the O, Kiff can devote some of his attention to the D and special teams. 2 areas in sore need of additional attention especially from the Head Coach.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:10 pm
lmfao!
July 20th, 2008 at 10:11 pm
I watch inside Lefty12. I’m not driving all the way to Napa to peak through a fence.
Mike Taylor normally takes me in. So we’ll see. I haven’t talked with anyone yet but I can’t see a problem.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:12 pm
Priest,i actually thought Kiffin did that last year especially with the lack of talent we had at the QB position.but at the same time we can’t expect too much from JR.sure he has talent but as you know in this league experience is almost as important as talent-that and proper coaching which i have already said i believe he is getting.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:14 pm
Well Lefty if we lose games 38-35, 44-41, Ryan is clearly out the door. Ryan most likely is out the door anyway so the Anti Ryan crowd can probably relax. I don’t see the defense really folding tho. As I said earlier today, we lost games 12-10 and 13-9 on consecutive weeks. Chicago had 3 points for 57 minutes of a 60 minute game. Farve and Manning leading 2 of the top offenses last year could only muster one TD each, Farve in the half, Manning for the game. The defense did not play as poorly as people here think.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:15 pm
per 101-lucky you!!
July 20th, 2008 at 10:15 pm
Mike Taylor? Oh, you mean this guy?
http://writingcompany.blogs.com/this_isnt_writing_its_typ/images/baghdad_bob_1.jpg
July 20th, 2008 at 10:15 pm
Oak, It’s as clear as can be that Big Al is listening to Kiffin a well as others to help them put a winner on the field.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:22 pm
Oak-i agree as a whole the D didn’t play as bad as everyone says,but it seems at key times they gave up big plays.whether that’s on the players for not making plays or the coaches for bad coaching is what the debate should be.if you look at the big picture it seems as if ALL teams had problems stopping their opponents at the end of games.just look at the SB.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:27 pm
Priest,you mean he didn’t just hire Cable,Lofton,Hackett,etc. to take Kiffin’s place as soon as we lose a couple games?
July 20th, 2008 at 10:29 pm
Nope, he will just name Rob Ryan HC…lol…oh god!
July 20th, 2008 at 10:30 pm
on that note…later fellas…
July 20th, 2008 at 10:31 pm
Priest,are you also trying to say AD didn’t bring in these older,NFL exp. coaches to possibly help and teach the NFLs youngest HC some things?Amazing!
July 20th, 2008 at 10:32 pm
have a good night Dakota.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:37 pm
Lefty12 I think he doing whatever he can but Kiffin is the HC. These experienced coches are without a doubt here to assist a young coach. But not against Kiffin’s approval. I think he and Mr Davis decide who to bring in. JMHO
July 20th, 2008 at 10:42 pm
jon ritchie…wow hadnt heard that name in a while……we need more players like that..is he retired now?
July 20th, 2008 at 10:44 pm
Great insight in here from the raidernation, as far as Darren Mcfadden is concerned this year will be the jumpstart of a rushing dynasty, simply because our 0-line is under year two off of cable’s zone blocking system that right there has stability in every position maybe set aside kwame harris but the fact that last year we had some difficulties made more room for improvement because they know what they’re doing, just like any other job takes about a year or two too really get things set in stone in your mind. This upcoming isn’t going to be buried in committee but only running w/ infinity yards shocking the whole league. Jmac will produce more numbers than we expect just think about if we run shotgun formation w/ fargas and mcfadden side by side that right there takes off pressure heavily for russell and that will make opposing defenses dependent on 2 RB’s going for checkdowns, screens, handoffs etc. keep in mind mcfadden can throw a pretty decent spiral, maybe connect w/ miller down the stretch, maybe a lateral pass back to Jmac for a deep throw to walker…man just so many situations could happen. the ground game should be established first especially when were playing good run D, i’m sure fargas and mcfadden are up for the challenge. This will be a very NEW TEAM raidernation I predict 11-5 AFC west on top.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
Darren McFadden will be looked at as the best Raider draft pick in A LONG TIME
July 20th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
Priest-sarcasm
July 20th, 2008 at 11:00 pm
Raiders wont unleash Russell until the back to back interconference games against Carolina and Atlanta when the Raiders will try to deveolp a good win strak before 3 straight division games in late november
July 20th, 2008 at 11:01 pm
I chime in once a month… what about me?
July 20th, 2008 at 11:02 pm
and Lefty- I understand Jerry is doing position by position but he has never mentioned the need for a RDE that can cause hell…….Never ever that is what my main criticism is about. He has all these blogs in feb, march, april, may and june but nada on the RDE being one of the more crucial positions on the defense
July 20th, 2008 at 11:03 pm
i don’t think we’ll see a combo of DM and JF.maybe MB and DM-both can catch,both can throw.remember,Bush is a former QB.
July 20th, 2008 at 11:05 pm
Justin Farglass is being phased out…….the contract he signed was really a one year contract and a safety signing just in case Dmac wasnt around
July 20th, 2008 at 11:07 pm
Brien,maybe with the growth of Richardson and our FA signings Jerry doesn’t feel it is such a critical need.but i see your point.
July 20th, 2008 at 11:09 pm
But they had to sign Farglass to keep everyone guessing but smart folks know Al don’t like for a physical specimens with speed to get past………The Raiders were gonna trade up for Dmac if necessary
July 20th, 2008 at 11:10 pm
richardson as a pass rusher? Come on Lefty- i know you know better
July 20th, 2008 at 11:12 pm
why the dislike for Fargas?9 games and over a 1000 yds.any team would like that production.RBs get hurt,almost all miss time due to the beating of the position.look at last year-we used all 3 of our RBs at different times.i for one am happy Fargas is still a Raider.
July 20th, 2008 at 11:14 pm
1000 yards doesnt carry the same weight lefty as it usedto……….also look at his big games……..KC, Denver, Houston all stink vs the run
July 20th, 2008 at 11:15 pm
Farglass did nada against good run defense because he has limited ability as a starter but he does have good attitude and heart
July 20th, 2008 at 11:16 pm
Farglass gets to 2nd level and cant make anyone msis……..that cannot be tolerated in the NFL unless you are a big bruiser as tailback……he isnt
July 20th, 2008 at 11:17 pm
below average hands limits playcalling and audbiles on offense
July 20th, 2008 at 11:18 pm
we have a pass rusher deluxe in Burgess.if Richardson can continue to grow(as a player not in size) and develop a decent rush and be solid against the run that is what we need.we can always get a guy who just rushes the QB,look at Clemons,but if Richardson can develop both all the better.
July 20th, 2008 at 11:25 pm
granted Fargas isn’t and never will be a star but he is more than adequate as a relief back,that’s why we drafted DM.btw,if our WRs knew how to block last year he would have broken some long runs-remember M.Williams?also not many do sh#t against good run def.,that’s why they are good.
July 20th, 2008 at 11:37 pm
lefty Mike Williams messed up bad but hell that was his only big run that year!!!
richardson doesn’t have the quickness to be a great pass rusher…….lefty you need your best pass rusher to be going againstthe LT………burgess beats slow footed RT who are road graders hence him getting his ass handed to him on the run
July 20th, 2008 at 11:38 pm
it wont freakin matter that we got hall,aso,huff and wilson out there if a QB has hella minutes to pass then we are toast
July 20th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
it is time to cause havoc on the oppenents blindside. burgess being our best pass rusher serves nothing to us if we have no RDE
July 20th, 2008 at 11:40 pm
The last RDE we had with double digit sacks in a season is Lance Johnstone in 1999!!! That has got to stop…….. RDE cause fumbles and cause fear in a QB……….the LDE can be seen at least
July 20th, 2008 at 11:43 pm
Jay Richardson at best is a 5 sack a season RDE……No way now how can that win us a title…………Calling Kalimba Edwards and Trevor Scott. I’m for Trevor Scott because I think this white dude is a bad ass and is an athlete. I knew Al was gonna get the dimaond in the rough……… He is it
July 20th, 2008 at 11:51 pm
if you watch any good running back that breaks long runs constantly you will notice the WR making blocks.our WR were lousy at blocking so there is no telling how many long runs Fargas would have had with good WR blocking.but that is moot as Fargas will be the alternate back sooner than later.hell,he might even be the 3rd back in the rotation behind MB and DM.as far as RDE,sure an all pro would be nice-who wouldn’t want one,but i’m not ready to give up on Richerdson.
July 21st, 2008 at 12:03 am
let me hear your case for trever scott
July 21st, 2008 at 12:04 am
The judge is in…court is in session
July 21st, 2008 at 12:09 am
someone withthe LA handle can never be a judge inthe raider affairs
July 21st, 2008 at 12:11 am
Lefty- Fargas cant get the 2nd level and make things happen. This will be crucial when the november grind comes about.
lance johnstone wasn’t an all pro back then but he was a threat fromthere. no team will be doubling richardson they’ll easily double burgess without the QB looking over his shoulder
July 21st, 2008 at 12:11 am
#139
July 21st, 2008 at 12:11 am
Richardson did nada at RDE when Kelly went down but I bet Rob Ryan is at fault right
July 21st, 2008 at 12:12 am
make a case for having Los Angeles Raiders as your screen handle
July 21st, 2008 at 12:13 am
he was a rookie playing with 2nd string bench warmers and a hall of famer who retired a year too late…I think the jury is still out on Jay
July 21st, 2008 at 12:14 am
its a part of raider history like it or not, it cant be erased. that good enough?
July 21st, 2008 at 12:16 am
you mean destruction? Raiders history was on hold after the Oakland influenced players left in 1986 and the got back to trying to right the ship since 1995…….and that has been a struggle
July 21st, 2008 at 12:17 am
what were you doing during the ” l.a years “.. busy being a 49ers fan?
July 21st, 2008 at 12:18 am
1986= Plunkett done, Branch done……Millen leaves the next season and it was just going to hell in LA. LA is a glamorous place and that aitn aaider type of thing. LA has too many distractions and pro football players aint focused there. F–k LA for all it did to being negative light onthe Raiders. People never dressed up in until let’s see me ass LA. There wasn’t a gang presence until LA. The suffering losing attitude and giving up started in LA. You take on the personality of the place you are at….That is why Al stopped the 16 road game trip
July 21st, 2008 at 12:19 am
Brien<———-hates 49ers will die before I put on 49er paraphanelia
July 21st, 2008 at 12:20 am
Oakland Raiders…………LA was a blurr and a fumble by Oakland’s city council but the name Los Angeles Raiders especially as the team did what no pro sports team ever has……….go back to origin
July 21st, 2008 at 12:20 am
when the raiders came back you put your joe montana jersey away huh?
July 21st, 2008 at 12:20 am
Brien<———crying bassly during LA years crossing fingers for a miracle then it happened January 1991 at the LA coliseum
July 21st, 2008 at 12:21 am
Joe montana jersey= tampon………dont do those
July 21st, 2008 at 12:22 am
# Oakglenn Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 10:01 pm
“Davis has never been known for his patience.”
…….
Nor his intelligence, anymore.
July 21st, 2008 at 12:22 am
Raiders could move to alaska for all I care, thats my football team .
July 21st, 2008 at 12:23 am
Al Davis= sage, saint, king of the world…….all of the above
July 21st, 2008 at 12:23 am
I dont know why everyone hates Mr..I think he makes good points
July 21st, 2008 at 12:25 am
Brien<——-kool-aid drinker……purple color…….heavy on the sugar
July 21st, 2008 at 12:26 am
Points or babble?
July 21st, 2008 at 12:26 am
I didnt know why folks drank kool aid too
July 21st, 2008 at 12:26 am
*white
July 21st, 2008 at 12:27 am
thought yall liked Tang
July 21st, 2008 at 12:27 am
from what I noticed alot of people attack him.
July 21st, 2008 at 12:28 am
nite all-it was nice discussing football without any nonsense.
July 21st, 2008 at 12:28 am
white? yeah i hear that is a pretty heavy thing people take up the nose in LA
July 21st, 2008 at 12:28 am
Lefty- dont talk so soon MRS just posted not too long ago
July 21st, 2008 at 12:29 am
Blackholepriest Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
“Only Kiffin can assure himself of remaining HC by gettin this team to compete at the level they are capable.”
……
You mean like how Gruden did?
Gruden was offered zilch after the ‘00 season, and he’d just took us to our first AFC title game in 10 years. Sure, maybe Davis won’t outright fire Kiffin if he pulls of a miracle and gets this team to 9 wins, but he’s also not going to give Kiffin the raise and long term contract he would deserve in that instance, either; And that’s the same as a pink slip.
No coach is going to be here longer than a few years. Either Al will scapegoat them, or he’ll refuse to pay them, which will prompt them to leave anyway.
July 21st, 2008 at 12:29 am
Los Angeles Raider=MRS
July 21st, 2008 at 12:29 am
say no to drugs
July 21st, 2008 at 12:30 am
“I dont like cocaine,…. I just like the way it smells”
July 21st, 2008 at 12:31 am
mrs??
July 21st, 2008 at 12:31 am
Gruden took us to a home loss in the playoffs……inexcusable to not change up the gameplan on saturday night because you are too stubborn to understand conventional offense couldnt beat 2000 ravens. you must challenge them…….gruden=idiot and was cussed out in front of his 49er daddy Jack Gruden. Good job Al. That is why Gruden didnt stay because he got punked in front of pops
July 21st, 2008 at 12:31 am
when does hbo hardknocks premier
July 21st, 2008 at 12:32 am
# Brien Says:
July 21st, 2008 at 12:23 am
“Al Davis= sage, saint, king of the world….”
____
…19-61, all of the above.
July 21st, 2008 at 12:32 am
MRS= post 169
July 21st, 2008 at 12:33 am
football started 5 years ago
July 21st, 2008 at 12:33 am
the patriots won the first two super bowls in pro football history
July 21st, 2008 at 12:33 am
steelers won super bowl III
July 21st, 2008 at 12:34 am
Colts won super bowl IV and Giants won super V
July 21st, 2008 at 12:34 am
I hope super bowl VI is as good as V
July 21st, 2008 at 12:35 am
# Brien Says:
July 21st, 2008 at 12:31 am
Gruden took us to a home loss in the playoffs……inexcusable to not change up the gameplan on saturday night because you are too stubborn to understand conventional offense couldnt beat 2000 ravens. you must challenge them…….gruden=idiot and was cussed out in front of his 49er daddy Jack Gruden. Good job Al. That is why Gruden didnt stay because he got punked in front of pops
……
http://espn-i.starwave.com/media/nfl/2003/0126/photo/a_gruden_i.jpg
July 21st, 2008 at 12:36 am
I wonder what people did for brutal sport before 2003….oh yeah boxing and rugby……..my bad
July 21st, 2008 at 12:36 am
vodka & milk- gO raiders
July 21st, 2008 at 12:37 am
yawwwwwwwwnnnnnnnn to MRS…………tampa players on record talking about dungy for that one. gruden did nada but destroy that team thereafter……..not impressed at all in a beauracratic super bowl fix
July 21st, 2008 at 12:38 am
vodka i use to but drinking is bad for ya
July 21st, 2008 at 12:39 am
# Brien Says:
July 21st, 2008 at 12:37 am
yawwwwwwwwnnnnnnnn to MRS…………tampa players on record talking about dungy for that one. gruden did nada but destroy that team thereafter……..not impressed at all in a beauracratic super bowl fix
………
http://espn-i.starwave.com/media/nfl/2003/0126/photo/a_gruden_i.jpg
July 21st, 2008 at 12:39 am
let’s see you believe barrett robbins was bipolar dont ya? lol
July 21st, 2008 at 12:39 am
” exactly how gruden told us in practice” Gannon int..that still haunts me
July 21st, 2008 at 12:39 am
hey pat bowlen hoisted two up and so did eddie debartilo but they cheated to do ir………..your point
July 21st, 2008 at 12:40 am
Gannon= in on the fix
July 21st, 2008 at 12:40 am
robbings could have given gannon maybe an extra second to throw the ball he was a damn probowler!
July 21st, 2008 at 12:40 am
5 ints…# of them without any pressure and to the house? Makes you wonder right like the 2000 florida election booths or the 2004 ohio election booths
July 21st, 2008 at 12:42 am
robbins was key because centers call the line audibles and he was a much more accomplished run blocker than anything else……..tampa had trouble with big RBs……wheatley would have gave it to them, jsut like when he got in on his only play he injured Quarles but the fix was in
July 21st, 2008 at 12:44 am
# lefty 12 Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
and that last post comes from someone who will never forgive him (Al Davis) from moving the team out of it’s rightful home-Oakland.and i know,it wasn’t totally his fault,but i’ll always blame him.
………..
Wasn’t totally his fault? LOL. So, there’s more than one managing general partner?
July 21st, 2008 at 12:44 am
Brien, you’re nuts.
July 21st, 2008 at 12:46 am
pathetic
July 21st, 2008 at 12:46 am
# Brien Says:
July 21st, 2008 at 12:39 am
hey pat bowlen hoisted two up and so did eddie debartilo but they cheated to do ir………..your point
……..
Well, I’m just saying. I’m sure Al would have loved to hoist the trophy after 37. But here’s who hoisted it instead.
http://espn-i.starwave.com/media/nfl/2003/0126/photo/a_gruden_i.jpg
July 21st, 2008 at 12:46 am
I DONT BELieve in ” the fix” ..BASICALLY our old coach Gruden knew all our plays and he Rich Gannon as if he had created him or something, Callahan never imagined in his wildest dreams that we would meet tampa in the superbowl, so he never really changed any of the plays or termonology
July 21st, 2008 at 12:47 am
Super Bowl XXXVII was a fix and a sham. Anyone who believes the official Robbins story and believes that game was fairly played you aren’t smart when you look at the teams that have won the title since the slary cap era all have been apart of the NFL financing committee for the most part..dont you guys get it
July 21st, 2008 at 12:48 am
Blackholepriest Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
Kiffin is the voice the coach and face of this team. When was last time you heard from Big Al on anything??
……….
LOL at that ridiculous logic. When has Al ever said much to the press?
July 21st, 2008 at 12:48 am
Teams knows all other teams plays…….Why the hell do you think analysts understand the plays? That wasn’t the deal you idiot
July 21st, 2008 at 12:49 am
Brien, how’s that tin foil hat fitting ya? Any other conspiracies while we’re here, Poindexter?
July 21st, 2008 at 12:49 am
So when Robbins went nuts,robbed the store and shot at cops he was sane?
July 21st, 2008 at 12:50 am
LAR- not a smart kid I see. The Raiders offense was tweaked that whole season none the less a form of the dink and dunk queer 49er offense. those weren’t the same palys and cally likes to pass more then run…….gruden would rather run. that is the difference with those two
July 21st, 2008 at 12:51 am
No conspriracy? Come on man you know better than that MRS take that doo rag off that your hubby made you put on while you do late nite kitchen duty
July 21st, 2008 at 12:53 am
Brien Says:
July 20th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
MRS= moronic person. No year in the NFL is the same. The defense last year has issues with people who cant tackle, cover or play the run. Also we lacked any threat fromthe RDE position. Those issues are being accounted for.
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LOL. Yeh, I know. We’re going to score on every single drive, and win games with scores like 65-50. Already heard it.
July 21st, 2008 at 12:53 am
Where is “cally” working again?
July 21st, 2008 at 12:53 am
Brien, don’t stop there. Tell us about the Illuminati.
July 21st, 2008 at 12:53 am
oh, thats right, a burger barn in Maine.
July 21st, 2008 at 12:54 am
Barrett Robbins had a weekly segment on Behind the Shield………….no way in the world will anyone give that slot to a bipolar player. When the playoffs come the teams know people who got sicknesses or certian provisions. The Raiders are no different from any team on this front. All areas are covered so I dont buy this BS he was in TJ drunk and crying. Bullish about the pressure. This guy here in 2001 left with an ACL after the Miami game and worked hard to come back and win a title being an all pro. No way will I ever buy this story and smarty people wouldnt either