Camp wrap ‘08: offense
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Thursday, August 14th, 2008 at 11:14 am in 2005 Regular Season, Oakland Raiders.
Impressions gathered from viewing 24 of the 26 training camp practices over the course of 21 days:
– Running back Darren McFadden began to show signs of physical and mental fatigue in the last few practices, but this is the best looking Raiders rookie I’ve seen since the club returned to Oakland in 1995.
The Raiders will no longer be dependent on multi-play drives to score. They’re in position every time he touches the ball. McFadden will have to be accounted for on every play, wherever he lines up, and his presence should open up things for others.
I’ve been told the Raiders think he is even better than they thought he was when they picked him and are pinching themselves for their good fortune.
This should be fun to watch.
– Justin Fargas and Michael Bush will get their chances as well, but if McFadden cuts into their work load, it’s a great problem to have.
More likely, attrition will work things out. Lane Kiffin are Greg Knapp are firm believers that you can’t have enough depth at the position. Bush may not fit as neatly into the power back mode as Kiffin would like, but he’s very skilled and like McFadden, will be an asset in the red zone because of his receiving skills.
– The Raiders should be a good run-blocking line. It is the hardest working unit on the team, and when you add the element of cutting to the movement, plus the talent of the backfield, an average of 150 yards per game on the ground should be attainable.
– Offensive line depth is an issue. Mario Henderson, a third-round pick last year, is the backup left tackle and Kiffin does little to hide his disappointment with his performance. There doesn’t seem to be a lot of confidence in Paul McQuistan. Fred Wakefield, shuffled all over the place, moved to offense and instantly began getting reps.
– The Raiders will need every one of their rushing yards, because the passing game is, to put it mildly, a work in progress. To put it less mildly, it has been a disaster.
JaMarcus Russell came advertised as someone who can throw every pass, from the feathery drop-ins to backs coming out of the backfield to the difficult cross-field out patterns to the laser-guided deep ball.
In fact, Russell’s pure passing, except for their first night practice during double sessions, has been a disappointment. It’s not all his fault. Tight ends Zach Miller and John Madsen and wide receiver Todd Watkins have been relatively sure-handed, virtually everyone else has been prone to to the occasional drops. Sometimes more than occasional.
Russell has also missed his share of open receivers and doesn’t yet look like the 60 percent passer the offense needs to make for an efficient passing game, although repeated dumpoffs and checkdowns could make his percentage deceiving.
That said, Russell seems to handle himself with confidence and resolve. You don’t see him slapping his helmet after a bad throw, riding his receivers for a drop or delegating blame. He puts everything on his huge shoulders, and that’s a big intangible for a quarterback.
– Regarding Russell’s passing, the company line continues to be the elbow he injured banging it off McFadden’s helmet early in camp is not an issue. He does, however, still wear a protective sleeve with a pad on the elbow.
Maybe Russell is fine. Or maybe, a year from now, at training camp, he’ll say something like, “My elbow was bothering me all through training camp last year.”
– Pass blocking will be a big problem if the Raiders get behind by 10 or more points. If you’re running the ball well and the game is tight, it is easier to control the heat. If not, Oakland will be vulnerable to an edge rush with Kwame Harris and Cornell Green as the tackles.
The Raiders have done a lot of blitzing during practice, in large part to prepare for Russell for what he will see _ and it’s another reason the passing game has looked so shaky. They don’t handle it well.
Fullbacks Justin Griffith and Oren O’Neal will be counted upon to slow the charge, and it could also cost tight end Zach Miller 15 to 20 receptions off his total.
– Javon Walker doesn’t have it yet. His play has been better of late, but I’ve seen elite receivers in training camp before _ Randy Moss in his first year with the Raiders, Jerry Rice in any season, Tim Brown _ and Walker is not anywhere near that standard.
The Raiders were privately concerned about Walker’s burst even before the whole “retirement” issue. They went out on a limb when they paid Walker an $11 million signing bonus and $1 million in salary this season, with another $5 million due in March.
Other teams were interested, the Cowboys for example, but they weren’t going to pay any more than a few million, figuring they could lock Walker up if things worked out.
This is one of those instances where the Raiders went their own way and took a calculated risk. They did that a few years back with Derrick Burgess and it worked out. Other teams had concerns about Burgess’ body type and susceptibility to injury. Score one for the Raiders.
They did it with LaMont Jordan and it did not. Other teams had concerns about Jordan’s ability to be a lead back, given that he had never carried the ball 100 times in a season. The other teams were right.
– Allowing for the fact that things could change behind closed doors at practice, Watkins has got to make the team. When you preach that performance counts, than it has got to count _ even if it means draft picks Arman Shields and Chaz Schilens don’t make the 53-man roster.
– Drew Carter and Ronald Curry both faded in terms of performance as camp went along. Carter appears to pulling out of a lull the past couple of days. Curry hit the weight room hard and lost some body fat, but it hasn’t helped hold up as well as the staff would like.
Every once in awhile Johnnie Lee Higgins does something exceptional as a wide receiver, then he almost always follows it with a drop, a blown route or a failure to get open. Jerry Porter went from a “talent” to a useful No. 3 receiver in 2002 when he finally started practicing well every day under offensive coordinator Marc Trestman. Higgins has yet to take that step.
– Andrew Walter improved a great deal and has even done some good things on the perimeter. But he occasionally reverts to the big mistake _ he had a terrible practice Tuesday _ still doesn’t seem to have the complete trust of his head coach.
Marques Tuiasosopo has difficulty with throws beyond 20 yards and I’ve heard the Raiders are seriously considering going with two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster.
Coming later . . . Camp wrap ‘08: defense
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August 14th, 2008 at 11:17 am
Would be nice to get some new bodies in…
August 14th, 2008 at 11:18 am
What is the league going to do about the injuries? This doent seem to be just a Raider phenomenon but a league issue. all teams are getting knicked up.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:26 am
Third
August 14th, 2008 at 11:26 am
Not worried about the news on our QB he should improve with reps. I beleive the run D will get a stren test on friday, but i beleive they will perform well.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:31 am
This could be a long year on offense.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:33 am
Thec,
The NFL is using the 80 man camp limit for negotiations in a new CBA. All teams are getting the Sh*t beat out of them.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:35 am
Don’t see any reason why Tui makes the 53 man roster. If JaMarcus and AW were to go down in the same game I think they could get by using Dmac. If Mike Vick doesn’t get suspended for ‘09 I say you bring him in. Could be a slash type guy as well as the back up QB.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:38 am
Raider Dell,
my question regarding Archuleta on the previous post was not a challenge, it was more quizzical. I seem to remember that Archuleta was the preferred target for the Raiders when they ended up with Derrick Gibson. I like the analogy of the utility infielder. Hope he bats above the “Mendoza” line.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:41 am
M—When Gibson was drafted they had hoped to get AA instead. He did have a couple very good years in STL, but with the Skins and Bears he was very Stui like.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:42 am
Good, I mentioned last week that we should consider going with 2 QB´s.
It´s not unusual nowadays and if AW has shown us anything is that he can take some serious pounding.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:44 am
this cannot be a repeat of art shell.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:44 am
Marley Esq.,
damn, I hope that Andrews Mom doesn’t read that post regarding the future disposition of her son. lol
August 14th, 2008 at 11:47 am
Mr. Marley,
you do realize that the entire array of hopes of this Raider Nation lays upon the shoulders of the man, you, who anointed Kwame last March?
August 14th, 2008 at 11:48 am
I fully expect the Raiders to snag an OT or two off the waiver wire following teams’ final cuts. Too bad that’s what they’ll have to do, but that’s the way it is. Expect McQ and maybe Mario to survive the final cutdown only to be umemployed the next day when the Raiders do some emergency shopping.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:48 am
And it´s not like it would cost us a Super Bowl if the worst happened and we had to throw Curry or McFadden in there for a quarter or so and more than likely lose that game.
We can afford to develop a younger position player instead of having a 3rd QB carry a clipboard for 16 games (hopefully that´s all we see of our 3rd stringer, if we keep one).
August 14th, 2008 at 11:48 am
D-Mac as QB would make him more susceptible to injury. I would go with Ronald Curry, then D-Mac.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:49 am
The big plus for this offense is the running game. Top running teams last year included Joke-sonville, NYG, Pittsburgh, Us and San Diego. There’s a few playoff calibre teams there. The running game will open up the passing game. It has to. If it doesn’t, we have the wrong coach.
Obviously, the passing game is going to need work. We have a “rookie” QB, starting receivers who have been here three weeks, a new LT, and a new center. What does everyone expect, The Instant Greatest Show on Turf Offense?? That team had a league MVP QB and receivers he had worked with for years with an All Pro Left Tackle. AND A HALL OF FAME RB in Marshall Faulk.
I cannot preach this enough. Improvement. We need to see steady improvement thru out the preseason and thru out the season. It seems Javon is improving, Kwame is improving, Jamarcus is improving, now we need the other receivers and linemen to improve.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:50 am
M
I didn’t take your comment as a challenge, more of a reason to bring in AA.
He may be not an upgrade at the safety position, but can play if need be due to injury and has the ability of playing as a LB in our passing defensive packages.
Kiffin wants to play players in different roles and special teams as well.
M, I could never take your comments ever as being to challenging, your not that type of person, your a good guy in my highest regards.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:50 am
What about Louis Rankin? This guy can flat out run and hit the holes quickly. I would LOVE to see him get a chance. We need to find a way to use his speed. I can’t wait to see what he does in the next couple of preseason games.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:51 am
Ron Curry could always step in and QB in a real pinch also. That would be an interesting scenerio that I hope i never see play out.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:53 am
M….post 13
LOL..Yes, I do.
Nice to see you back.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:56 am
Raidr4life
I would never compare AA to Stui, AA can and will place a hat on you, were Stui would look to tackle you at the ankles.
AA has had difficultys in pass coverage, but has been stout against the run.
AA can play in certain defensive packages, more likely run oriented teams using two tight ends in a formation, or defensive scheme utilizing his ability to blitz(haha) or cover in a zone or area.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:56 am
Looks like Curry will be the #3 QB.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:57 am
If Curry is the QB they might utilize more QB options.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:58 am
Dell—We will see tomorrow and next Sat. how much AA has left. No question AA could hit, but was always a liability in coverage. Did u all hear the Lil Stui was picked up by the Gmen? Would be surprised if he lasts more than one preseason game.
August 14th, 2008 at 11:58 am
Don’t forget about Michael Bush. He has quarterbacked in the past. Line up Curry, Bush and Dmac in a shotgun T formation, whoever gets the snap is the QB.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
If Tui were across the bay he was be the starter for sure. Here tho we don’t need a professional clipboard holder. Nice guy, but never more than a good college QB.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
Yeah, wasn’t Bush his HS QB?
August 14th, 2008 at 12:02 pm
We would probably be OK with just two QB’s. This is not a team like Indy or NE who are in the Super Bowl hunt and would be effed if their QB went down. We’d be fine with Jam and Andrew.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:02 pm
Sure, in case of an emergency you go with Ron Curry, he started at QB for North Carolina, McFadden was only a QB out of the wildhog and he mostly ran it anyway as “QB”.
But the truth is it won´t matter, if any of those 2 or 3 with Bush… sees the field at QB we lose that game, unless we are up big and there´s not much time on the clock.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
M…post 26
I actually like that Shotgun with Curry, Bush and McFadden in the backfield for a trick play in the goal line.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
OakGlenn
My understanding of all comments on this blog regarding our passing game is they should be in sync right now.
I agree with some of your comments, post #17, yet some can’t believe of the struggles we are having.
Leave out new WR’S and Jamarcus trying to absorb a play book as thick as the yellow pages, probably.
Timing, field position and just all trying to react to our mproved D is a challenge.
I believe and hope as the season moves into the fourth or fifth week, the trend is the offense usually catches up with the defense, and is starting to jell.
MY only concern is placing our WR’S in the best position to succeed.
Playing Watkins in the red zone is not advantageous, due to his size, where, Carter and Curry can be better in those situations.
Any College or High School coach will tell you the passing game is the last puzzle of the offfense to click, to many variables to become instantly good.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Shout out to you Regulars,
Is it an NFL thing, or have the Raiders been “hiding” players they want to keep off the cut wires, by placing select personell on IR Roster?
August 14th, 2008 at 12:09 pm
OakGlenn, post 17.
I was with you until the 3rd paragraph. JR had a lackluster game vs the 9ers. Im sure he has improved in practice but until we see it in a game its a mute point.
AW might be our best QB as of today.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:12 pm
Dell how is Watkins size a disadvantage in the red zone?
Marley, I agree 2 QB’s. I answered your FF question, see email.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Raider4life
I want to see one aspect in Tenn game. I want us to be physical on Defense and Offense.
They may have better personnell in their lines, but we still have to be physical.
I want us to get after them, and let them know this game is not going to be them pushing our team around.
When the Raiders can play that way, you have more turnovers and players will play harder and harder.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
The Raiders will have to play like the Giants in the 1990s.
Solid run-first ground attack, eat the clock, and sufficating Defense, not giving up the big play.
A solid rushing attack should allow the occasional shot down field.
The onus lies heavily (IMNotsoHO) the Rush-Defense.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
If memory serves correctly Shane Lechler was a halfway decent QB his sophomore year in college. Perhaps he might also serve as a potential emergency QB, although from what has been saind in the past Curry might be the more dynamic option in that situation. Heck they could probably put Seabass under center and just have him hand the ball to DMac or Fargas and get things done.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
Raider Dell,
you mean like doing a Ben Davidson headstand on a Titan player after every play? I could live with that.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Sea Bass and Jared Lorenzen are cut from the same mold, it might work!
August 14th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
MistaBrown
Watkins is 6′2, Curry is 6′2, Carter is 6′3.
Height for me is not the issue as some believe being tall in the red zone is a big advantage, height is, depending on certain corners.
All that being equal, I like Carter and Curry quickness in and out of cuts and finding seems.
Watkins has one year of pro experience, Curry seven and Carter has five, they have been in the pro system longer and can read zone defenses and any other goal line defense, so yes experience is a factor.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
I just read it and I have a feeling Kiff
has Andrew penciled to go in the second series of the first quarter to take one for the team.
I will be real disappointed like I was when Kiff
sent him in Green Bay.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
I remember getting my ears chewed for mentioning 2 QB’s last year.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
Uh guys? RARELY do both QB’s go down at the same time or in the same game. If JR goes down, they play AW and after the game they re-sign Tui or Otis to be the #2 until JR is back. If Jr is expected to be out a long time maybe they bring in a vet back-up for Walter.
The Curry/DMAC at qb stuff - please.
And NO Rankin is not likely to make the 53-man roster. Deal with it. Yeesh.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
JLo is almost the exact same size as JaMarcus. I think he is actually more mobile. Rather see him as our backup than AW aka Kerry Collins Jr. JaMarcus tho needs to play at least a half tomorrow to try and get the passing game going.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
M
Ben Davidson, that brings back good memories.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
The offense as I see it right now:
51 Chris Morris C-has a chance to make the roster
64 Jake Grove C-starter
70 Jesse Boone C-should be cut soon
71 John Wade C-back-up
36 Justin Griffith FB-starter
45 Marcel Reece FB-practice squad
46 Oren O’Neal FB-back-up
60 Brandon Rodd G-should be cut
66 Cooper Carlisle G-starter
79 Paul McQuistan G-he will survive to the very end, but could lose his job to the versatile Wakefield
78 Fred Wakefield OL-can play 3 positions, which really helps his chances on a team with very little depth
16 Andrew Walter QB-back-up
2 JaMarcus Russell QB-starter
7 Jeff Otis QB-cut
8 Marques Tuiasosopo QB-cut
38 Adimchinobi Echemandu RB-cut
20 Darren McFadden RB-back-up
25 Justin Fargas RB-starter
41 Louis Rankin RB-practice squad
29 Michael Bush RB-back-up
74 Cornell Green T-starter
77 Kwame Harris T-starter
75 Mario Henderson T-his performance at Tenn. will decide his fate.
76 Robert Gallery T-starter
72 Seth Wand T-back-up
43 Chris Wagner TE-have not heard his name mentioned once in this blog
82 Darrell Strong TE-done with an injury
85 John Madsen TE-back-up
86 Tony Stewart TE-back-up
80 Zach Miller TE-starter
84 Arman Shields WR-practice squad or IR
81 Chaz Schilens WR-practive squad
14 Chris McFoy WR-cut
18 Drew Carter WR-back-up
13 Drisan James WR-cut
17 Javon Walker WR-starter
15 Johnnie Lee Higgins WR-back-up
10 Jonathan Holland WR-cut
89 Ronald Curry WR-back-up
19 Todd Watkins WR-back-up
August 14th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Speed WR (think Branch, Jett, Rice) - Walker / Higgins / McFadden
Possession WR (think Freddie B, Brown) - Carter / Curry / Watkins
There’s your WR’s
August 14th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
BART—agree 100%
August 14th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
# Mistabrown Says:
August 14th, 2008 at 12:09 pm
OakGlenn, post 17.
I was with you until the 3rd paragraph. JR had a lackluster game vs the 9ers. Im sure he has improved in practice but until we see it in a game its a mute point.
AW might be our best QB as of today.
Hence the reptitions. Jamarcus is still at the stage where he will do things 100 times right in practice and then do it wrong the first time live bullets start flying. That’s why it takes years for some of these guys to develop. They practice it sooooooo many times that it FINALLY becomes second nature to them. Sometimes that takes awhile. It happens at every position, with QB being the hardest.
Walter might the best QB on the roster today, but he’s not the best QB on the roster or for Kiffins system. Put Jam out there, watch him make mistakes and he’ll be the better player. + Walter is only on the team for one more year and he’s outta here. No reason to put a lot of investment in him.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
Coach:
Carter will be the “stretch the field” receiver for us this season. Coming out of Ohio State he ran one of the fastest 40 times of any WR…and he has size. He’ll be our down the field guy.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
The AP college football rankings will be out soon.
I have my fingers crossed that Kentucky will crack the top ten although I will be more then happy with a top twenty.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
OG—That’s why I would have JaMarcus out there for the entire first half tomorrow and then 3 quarters next Saturday. Give the kid some time to get the passing game going. He is gonna make mistakes and will learn from them. No point in AW doing much of anything other than being ready.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Oak - I agree. BUT
If you’re Kiffin do you let JR cost you your job with impatient Al by costing you games or do you play to win now at the expense of your franchise QB? UGH.
Walter is developing as you would expect for a guy in his 3rd year. If JR takes 3 years to “get it” we’ll have gone through three coaching staffs by then. It’s obvious why Kiffin wants to run the ball. Minimize mistakes gets you from 4-12 to 8-8.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
The Raiders “Red Shirted” JR last season. So I don’t expect we’ll see anything spectacular from the QB position this year. I just hope JR can weather the tough times and stay positive.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
BBB
Regarding Chris Morris, plays center, and guard and is younger than Wade and cheaper.
I would bet if Cable has kept him all of last year and this year he will be a system fit for ZBS than Wade.
I don’t think Wade makes the cut.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
16 days 23 hours 51 minutes 49 seconds untill Louisville gets their butts kicked by SEC powerhouse Kentucky
August 14th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
Also forgot to mention Morris can short snap and long snap for our special teams.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
I know Carter can go deep. I just see him doing a lot of medium range stuff more than walker.
Just like DMAC will get lots of hort stuff. Just talking general terms so people will understand it when Chazz and Sheilds don’t make the roster.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
AW Mom—Sorry to disappoint you but UK isn’t gonna be near the top 20. Georgia is by far the best team in the country and Knowshon Moreno will win the Heisman.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Kiffin is between a rock and a hard place.
Al = the rock
Al = the hard place
JR better step his game up and Kiffin might need to let him loose with the play calling.
Regarding Walker, he got behind the defense the ball just didnt get there. Three more weeks for alot of things to happen.
ED Hartwell is a victim of the shortened roster not that he was going to make the team but now 1 less body at LB.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
R-Dell:
Agree with you totally on Morris…He’ll make the team.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
All of this depends on who other teams cut of course.
Oh and NO, Hartwell is not going to play MLB and Morrison SLB. TG Hartwell was released so that can be put to rest.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
In terms of the Oline, I think we could end up with the following 10:
Tackles: Harris, Green, Henderson and Wand
Guard: Gallery, Carlisle, McQuistan and Wakefield
Centers: Grove and Morris
Morris and Wakefield stay because they can cover two spots. I see Saturday’s match as a final trial for John Wade - Grove has probably done enough and Morris can also play Guard.
However, surely we should be scouring the waiver and FA lists for some better talent than Wand and Wakefield. Like Pete McMahon? (See last post)
A lack of depth could kill this season. We must find more talent before September.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Cow i agree with post #59.
Shields has been injured, do you place him on IR with a legitimate injury or waive him.
Second question who of the two would you like to see not claimed on waivers for our practice squad.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
The Saint Mary’s Gaels from Moraga Ca. are going to crack the top 20 this year! First they need to start a football program but…h nvm
August 14th, 2008 at 12:47 pm
M-Brown:
Hartwell was also a victim of not being a good Special Teams guy. LBs Alston,Isiah E., & R. Brown will make the roster because their first string STs.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
Dell, I would go with 6 WRs and only 2 TEs. I think Madsen is too much of a tweener and Kiff doesn’t really believe in him. Stewart isn’t great but he can block.
My 6 WRs would be:
1) Walker
2) Carter
3) Curry
4) Higgins
5) Watkins
6) Shields (or Schilens if Shields is on IR)
But, surely we can find a better back-up TE than Stewart?
August 14th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
They gotta be able to find a SLB better than S. William, R. Brown and R. Thomas. All three are decent backups, but none are quality starters. Rather see us find a true MLB and move Morrison outside to use his speed.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:51 pm
Coach, two possible coaching options for the bairns of St Mary’s: Marques Tuiasosopo or Josh McCown. Both are nice, smart, modest guys who understand the theory (if not the practice) and who look convincing carrying a clip-board…..and both will be looking for employment in September.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
Do you guys really think playing AW would mean a few more wins as opposed to playing Russell?.
AW not in his 3rd year, it´s his 4th and vs the 49ers he made exactly the kind of decison that prevents him from becoming a starting QB…
After leading that 90-plus yard drive to SF´s goal line, he forced a pass into a perfect coverage, but not only was the guy well covered….he also missed the Safety standing 2 feet away and threw the ball right into that Safety who was closing in for what would have been a game-changing INT but the guys dropped it.
If AW still makes that kind of mistakes, I´d rather have Russell throwing those picks, at least he has an excuse.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Scottish
I believe some decent tightends will be available by the last roster cut.
I would like to see the Raiders find a combo receiver/blocker, with blocking as the emphasis and athletic enought to work in our ZBS and have decent ball skills.
I have no players in mind, maybe Baker from the Jets.
That may be wishful thinking, probably will be traded before he is waived.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
No way Shields or Schilens makes the 53 unless they do something incredible tomorrow and/or next Saturday. Rather keep Madsen who has decent hands.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Anyone have suggestions on some OLineman to get off the waiver wires?
I am just gonna throw this out here cuz I wanted to get this guy in the draft, but: Thaddeus Coleman was cut by Arizona, he could be an insurance policy against Mario Henderson not being so “super”
August 14th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
I’d put Shields on IR. Who knows? Maybe he’s next year’s Mike Bush?
That only leaves Chazz for the practice squad BUT Holland has outperformed him so…who knows? Practice squad is a good place to hide developing guys who could help if a guy gets hurt and goes on IR. Third string WR’s are a dime a dozen so…
I see Rankin, a back-up OLman, and a back-up CB/S like Johnson or Waddell tying up 3 of the 5 practice squad spots. No sure thing a guy like Reece doesn’t end up there.
Shoot, depending on who other teams cut and we sign, a guy like Scott could go there. You never know. I’d say it is an uphill climb for Chazz.
Remember, besides pure WR’s, DMAC and Madsen can line up at WR before Chazz.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Dell—I think Roland Williams is still available.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:57 pm
Dell,
Two possibles are still on the FA list:
Bryan Fletcher, ex-Colts - not a star but smart and a reliable blocker.
Eric Johnson, ex-Saints - much more talented but has had a terrible run of injuries.
And both better than Stewart.
Has Teyo Johnson resigned with the Bills?
August 14th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Raider4Life
Anybody who can fogg a mirror and wear shoulder pads should be looked at.
I will say Roland Williams was a gamer, played with a torn knee for most of a season.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Teyo Johnson??? Are you kiddding. I’d rather have OJ Santiago. How bout Jeremy Bringham??
August 14th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
“Kiffin has said that ideally he wants the Raiders to keep five receivers. Javon Walker, Drew Carter and Ronald Curry, barring a major surprise, will be on the roster. Higgins went a long way toward cementing his spot against the 49ers. That leaves one roster spot remaining between street free agent Todd Watkins and draft picks Arman Shields and Chaz Schilens and returnees Holland, Drisan James and Chris McFoy.”
No way Schilens or Shields make the 53 unless Watkins gets injured.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
Dell,
In terms of available OTs. Last I heard, Don Penn (Bucs) is still on the FA list, as is Eric Pears (Broncos). There are still some talented misfits available (Charles Spencer, Jordan Black, Nat Dorsey).
August 14th, 2008 at 1:03 pm
Dell—RoWilliams was a great run blocker who couldn’t catch a cold.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
Bob -
AW got more reps for one reason - and it has shown up in camp drills as well - he moves the offense.
I’m not saying JR will not be as good as AW after having three (real) years under his belt. That’s the quandry. But as of today AW moves the team better.
I want to develop JR but don’t want to lose Kiffin and company and start over when JR plays like a rookie.
AW was on IR his first year. He is in his 3rd year like JR is a rookie in the only way that matters - actual experience.
People scream for JR to get more reps. JR dictates his reps. If he moves the chains he gets more reps. So far it hasn’t happened. Believe me, I hope it does - soon.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
Only joking about Teyo. Another failed bus-stepper!
I blame Lombardi.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
Is it possible to sign Lecharles Bentley as a center
move grove back to gaurd he is agile enough just a thought
August 14th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
Was watching the New England Cheatriots vs. the Ravens preseason game on NFL Network the other day.
They kept emphasizing that New England had 16 Offensive lineman in camp, and that they were all GOOD QUALITY offensive lineman. They went on to say that even though almost all of the O Linemen were of good quality, there was no way that New England was gonna be able to keep them and so several of them would ultimately be released.
That would be an excellent opportunity for the Raiders to pick up some more depth on the O line. I hope Lane and Co. are paying close attention to little details like that around on other teams around the league.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
Coach
IMO, the fastest way for Kiffin to be run out of Oakland is to start AW over a healthy Russell and lose a coupe of games.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
Scottish
Looking at tightends who can fit our offense a few names jump out at the possibility of not making their teams final 53.
Do you know of John Carlson Seattle,David Martin Mia,Gary Barnridge,Car, David Thomas Pats.
they are on the bubble, and most are an upgrade to Stewart.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
Not to bring up bad memories but Gallery was better at right tackle his rookie year or 2nd year cant remember
August 14th, 2008 at 1:10 pm
Bentley has great talent and is still only 28. Sadly he has very dodgy knees and would be a big, big gamble.
Still, we’re desperate.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
Kush - Dead on. You want castoffs from high quality teams.
As for FA’s available RIGHT NOW forget it. Better guys will be released soon.
32teams cutting 80-53=27 guys each. That’s 864 free agents coming down the pipe. It ain’t over yet - not by a long shot.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
Bob—The only way AW is ever a starting QB is if he takes the bus across the bay and plays for the Whiners.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
Gallery RT Grove RG bentley C
August 14th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
[...] I meant to say, is that according to Jerry McDonald of the Contra Costa Times, Darren McFadden looks like the truth and JaMarcus Russell…well, not so [...]
August 14th, 2008 at 1:13 pm
I was thinking since Lynch signed with the Patsies why didn’t the Raiders just sign him and convert him to OLB. He’s gotta be better than Archuleta.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:14 pm
These are just my thoughts dont get all hissy
we all need to come up with something to get us all thinking positive again
August 14th, 2008 at 1:15 pm
Bob I agree with you with any other team. And that’s the question. If JR throws a pick to cost us the Bills game or Jets game and we are 2-2 does Kiffin get axed (which hurts JR and everybody else’s development) or does Al realize he has to ride it out with a rookie QB?
August 14th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
Quag—Lynch is old and I don’t think he has much left. Tomorrow we’ll find out if AA has even less left.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
Raider4life, didn’t Lynch make the Pro-Bowl last year? All four years he was in Denver actually, plus he would provide veteran leadership.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
COW, or anyone else,
remind me how the “claiming someone of the wires” routines works.
Teams with the worse record go first???
August 14th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
We tend to get to damn negative to fast we just signed Archuleta and we are already bashing him give it a chance i promise the coaches know more than we do
August 14th, 2008 at 1:21 pm
Lowdown, team with the worst record gets first dibs.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
Learn from NICK SANCHEZ! I told you guys. While everybody gets wired over a hasbeen (or neverwas) like Archuletta, it has quietly been the young guys you’ve never heard of making all the noise.
Sanchez two picks in two practices. Watkins beating a bunch of draft picks. These are the young guys you work out so they can be back-ups who someday develop into stars or at least servicable starters (B Sims comes to mind). What’s the point of turning Archuletta into a really old version of Darnell Bing just to have him leave next year?
August 14th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
We can comment but truth is we dont know.It all depends on how bad the players we sign want to prove everyone wrong.Archuleta is a perfect example he will try his azz off hopefully
August 14th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
If a player is placed on waivers, the bidding teams are seeded according to the preceding draft order (1st Round pre-trade). So, Miami get first pick.
That is why Bruce Gradkowski was claimed by the Rams ahead of us.
And Parcels already has his scouts primed to scour the waiver lists and the practice squads.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Quag—I think if we were closer to a SB and needed someone like that to put us over the top he might be alright. Was never really a big John Lynch guy anyways.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
COW
because you dont know for sure
August 14th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Coach
If we are 2-2 with Russell at the helm Kiffin is definitely not getting axed.
A lot of guys feel that we have it easy with the schedule and that anything less than 4-0 or 3-1 would be dissapointing, but I´m sure Al knows is not that simple, specially with a young QB.
I´d be thrilled to be 2-2 and head to the bye week where Russell can take a breather and, along with Kiffin, go back and examine what went well and what went wrong in the first 4 games.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Yeah Lowdown but there is a limit to the “claims” - it is kinda like a draft. We’d get the 4th claim.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Big Q,
thanks…haven’t seen a camp so thin since Gruden backed up Brown and Jett with “Terry Mickens” (shuddder)…and with each catch the Collusieum rocked with “Oh Mickey, he’s so fine, hey Mickey!”
TG Rison showed up a year later…
August 14th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
this report is upsetting.
i did want calvin johnson and trent edwards and we could have had both.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
Lowdown
Based on last year records the team that had the worst record will have in order the choice of a player.
The teams needs to claim him before he is awarded to that team.
This will continue until the mid way point of the season and then the current won loss record for the 08 season comes into play.
For example if MIA, OAK SEA place a claim on a player the player will go to MIA, if MIA doesn’t place a claim on the same player but OAK does, he is awarded to us over SEA.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
COW = The voice of Reason. Hey coach nice to see you piping in. Wanted to echo thos sentimentd from post 103.
I would like to see us develop our young talent. Some of the guys we have are promising. I dint like the Archuleta signing as he seems too slow for his position, and not big enough to play LB he reminds me of Bing. I say we develop the young guys postion them long term as we build this dynasty.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
Oh and COW…
No offense, but just a couple of months ago…weren´t you the one telling us how useless was to go over and talk about all Undrafted Free Agents and young unknowns the team was bringing to Camp?.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
RAIDER DELL you are the man thnx for clearing that up
August 14th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
Thanks All,
So what would be the minumum you cats would take for a Curry and Fargas trade…either together or separate???
I just feel both are superfulous….despite both being 2 of my favs.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
I agree Bob.
R84 - There’s alot of things I don’t know but AA will not be our Rod Woodson. We don’t need one grizzled vet to have one last glory year on our run to the Super Bowl. We need guys who can grow with JR, DMAC, Miller, Morrison, Howard, Huff etc…
So AA backs up Howard at WLB and given his pass coverage problems is not part of the nickel or dime. If he doesn’t play special teams…we’ve cut a guy (like Chazz)to make room for a guy who has no short or long-term impact.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
Archuleta is nothing like Bing Archuleta was a 1st round draft pick we all wanted but got Gibson instead.Archuleta was good for the Rams but fell off with nagging injuries give him a chance to play his natural position he is fast for a L/B
August 14th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
[...] Read more. Posted in Blog, Oakland Raiders | [...]
August 14th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
Archuleta is like bing if you want to move him to LB, he is too small at 215 lbs
August 14th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
I still say we should try to get Anquan Boldin. He has said he will not re-sign with AZ. Give them next years first round pick and Curry. Huggy Jr. I think is too valuable to give up right now.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
Why we dont try to get Culpepper back in the mix as back up. I dont understand this one. Is Culpepper going to sit out this year, because all other 31 teams already have there starting Qb’s. He will be a back up where ever he goes.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Not that I recall. I’ve always thought that great teams are the ones who find guys like that to fill out their rosters.
I do think it is not worth getting too worked up about if a guy like Chazz doesn’t make the team because beyond the #3 or 4 WR nobody has more than 10 catches. Maybe that’s what you’re thinking.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Bing is like Mario Henderson a project
Archuleta proved once before he can play in this league give him a chance to bounce back just like Tyrone Wheatley did we all thought it was a dum move to bring him in with all his problems but it worked out great i think
August 14th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
Koren Robinson is the most talented WR still available and he is still only 28.
Unless you fancy a ride on the whirlwind of trouble that is Chris Henry?
At least Henry hates Shanarat as much as any Raider fan.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
The only way we will bring Culpepper back is if we get a trade offer for AW and need a veteran at short-notice. Which might happen.
So much still depends on the Bucs QB shuffle.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
R8dr4lfe,
not trying to debate you on Archuletta Bro. In my opinion he will be taking snaps from one of our young
guys. I doubt very much he makes the team.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
good stuff guys…nice wrap Jerry.
So…it’s clear we don’t pass protect to well.
In essence….we are two plays away from near diaster, if we go with two legit QB’s on the 53 man roster.
3rd and 8? draw
2nd and 10? rush
3rd and 6? draw
1st and 10? go deep
repeat
who knows, looks a rushers place to be in Oakland.
sigh
can you say eight in the box?
I knew you could…
August 14th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Bob
I read the Chat yesterday (back from Vacation) and have read your comments up to today.
I know you were upbeat about the Kiff and Al situation from what Pat Kirwan said.
So my question or comment to you is (and you don’t have to answer) are you concerned about Kiff being fired before the season is concluded or are you concerned Davis is not reasonable to see the future of this team and how the most important position of Qb is and will Davis let Kiffin grow through some growing pains with Jamarcus.
I believe he stays for the season for the record, I would bet Davis wants to see progress and not just wins, but growth of his young stars.This is just a beginning of Kiffs evaluation to have his option picked up in 09.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
Coach, what is going on with all these injuries league wide? I dont remember a season where it was this bad. Whats your take? Also when are you going to fire up your own blog?
August 14th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Thats why our QB has to step up. I dont like 8 in the box.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Why not get rid of Tui and get Culpepper back
August 14th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
Coach
Ok then.
Just read that the Titans very good RT David Stewart is out for the game, too bad, I wanted to see how or D looked against those guys, not that we won´t have our hands full anyway.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Does anyone know when is the 53-man roster deadline
August 14th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
He’s 28 how old do you think he is
i will take proven talent as he once was over a project we need to win now.It’s like saying you would not take Tony Gonzales because he’s to old
as far as receivers go some thing has got to give with the Colts they have a lot of money out there with there players Manning,Freeny,Sanders,Harrison,Gonzales,and the other receiver forgot his name they might have some trade interest
August 14th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Bing is not so much like Henderson as Brayton.
AA is another, “we’ll move him to a completely different spot and be shocked when he doesn’t light it up,” project we’ve been famous for of late.
I REALLY like Curry but he has not had a great or even very good career and he is the BEST “let’s move him” project we’ve had. OL, DL abd CB-S moves aren’t such a big deal but we just don’t move DL-LB, LB-S etc…well.
Who is AA to beat out? Brown, Thomas or Williams? The other LB’s arespecial team leaders. Bring in a young TRUE LB who can also play ST’s and may be here a year or two.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Shaun B
AUGUST 30 FINAL CUT DOWN TO 53
August 14th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Why has no one mentioned how the mic being in the defense helmet been working out
August 14th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
2008: Draft James Laurinaitis MLB Ohio!
Damn, stayed in School.
2009: Draft James Laurinaitis MLB Ohio!
or Rey Maualuga MLB USC
August 14th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
I dont believe it.
You want DC back?
Some of you people are way too negative.
We have two healthy QB’s
and you &^@(^$ want DC back?
Are you nuts?
August 14th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
He will not be a project it’s his natural position Rams moved him to safety besides he said himself he is heavier than posted with speed coverage not the best but he likes contact.I agree get a true MLB move Morrison outside ok but for now and the sake of debating this cause neither of us is right lets see what happens
August 14th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
Thanks Raider Dell….
August 14th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
Thec-
Teams used to carry 100 guys and it has gone down and down. The problem is the injuries compound themselves.
Look at JR He gets dinged and is held out. Now AW is throwing way more footballs in practice. So by the time JR comes back AW is out with a sore arm. Now with Aw out JR is throwing more balls. Because of roster limit the team can’t keep spots for Otis and Kellen to step in and take some reps.
Same in our secondary. Branch misses time - more reps for Aso and Hall - now gee, they’re both dinged.
See?
August 14th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
I think Kiffin thinks too narrowly sometimes. Complaining about Bush’s physicality is ridiculous in my opinion. It is like complaining about Bo Jackson’s elusiveness. Bush is a tough back to get a clean hit on and with his size and strength anything less than a wrap up tackle will not bring him down. To me it is not difficult to see Bush’s strength and they complement the other RB on the roster. Heaven forbid, Kiffin tries to make him into a Crockett clone. Bush is better than that, just let him play…he will find his way into the end zone.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:54 pm
So is Culpepper injured for life. Do you think his career is over. I honestly believe Culpepper is way better than most back ups
August 14th, 2008 at 1:54 pm
I bet buc fans are going nuts if Gruden still has 4 or 5 QB’s. Im too lazy to look.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
DC equals quitter dont need that
AW will be fine we need OLine help bad maybe a receiver to compliment Walker who will do good things just quit riding him so dam much he doesnt like to practice so what neither did Woodson.Maybe thats why they get injured but oh well
August 14th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Dell..
It wasn´t so much that I was pleased with what Kirwan wrote, it´s more like a confirmation to me that things are not what some make them out to be.
Specially when you have people who never speak to Davis or Kiffin telling us how bad it is.
That´s why it´s refreshing when guy a like Kirwan comes to Camp and actually spends time alone talking to Davis and Kiffin before writting about the situation.
As far as Kiffin´s job status, I believe he´s gonna be judged on the progress of the things he´s in charge of, which basically means the offense and the development of our young playmakers.
If they keep improving and the team continues to respond to him, I think he stays. He won´t be blamed if the Defense keeps giving back 4th Quarter leads.
Unless we have a disastrous season, I think Kiffin gets the 3rd year.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
I agree with you on Bush… Bush is a HB not a FB
August 14th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Vin - I think (no I know) Kiff calls guys out like that (and super Mario) to motivate them. The quick dispatch of Jordan and Rhodes shows how much Kiff and company like Bush.
August 14th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
r8dr4life i think your forgetting reggie wayne and dallas clark
August 14th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
bush better hold his own, if he gets seriously injured again…his nfl career is most likely through
August 14th, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Thats who they sre thnx RYDER so thats alot of money thinkin they might want to trade Harrison he has some nagging injuries for maybe Fargas i know they wont trade Gonzales dam that kid is freakin good
August 14th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
Bob
Thanks for the reply, I agree you should be awarded on the merits of the teams performance and wins and losses.
August 14th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
its gotta be getting slim…who is their backup running back?
August 14th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
besides addai
August 14th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
rhodes
August 14th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
Dominic Rhodes is there back up we can trade a 3rd rounder next year with stipulations to make it higher on production along with AW he is fit for there system to back up Manning
August 14th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
lol they brought rhodes back again huh
August 14th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
Sorgi for life
August 14th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
I know Dungy and Davis are good friends maybe work something out for Harrison wasnt he throwing a fit last year because he was healthy and they sat him out
August 14th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
Don forget Harrison still has a case pending he might end up suspended or maybe even in jail.
August 14th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
If Ray Lewis can get away with murder with his rep Harrison can get away with his charges
August 14th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
What about Plaxico the Giants need some depth at RB and QB
August 14th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
Andrew makes Sorgi look like one of the McCown twins
August 14th, 2008 at 2:24 pm
Lane,
All I’ve heard from Kiffin’s camp notes is that, they were emphasizing teaching JaMarcus to checkdown and dump-off, and that they were very happy that he’s learning that.
I haven’t heard Jerry or Kiffin emphasize the Wideout game. Only me!
August 14th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
If Morrison goes down then who the hell is the MLB? robert Thomas? Oh my god
August 14th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
I hope we didnt cut hartwell too soon
August 14th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
R.I.P. Hartwell Brown
August 14th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Ekejiuba is the backup MLB as well as the best special teams guy.
August 14th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
ike is cool i met him at the celebration on sunday but can he hold up though being a starter if kirk goes down
August 14th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
I wonder if Kiffin ever considered having Ekejiuba start in the middle and move Morrison outside?
August 14th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
What about Jeff George?
August 14th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Lets call Jake Plummer out of retirement
August 14th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
I find it a little strange that we are discussing whether or not Kiffin’s job is secure. I guess it could be said that almost no one’s is in today’s NFL, but on the flip side I just don’t think Al spends the kind of money he did this offseason if he doesn’t have faith in his head coach. The old man knows enough about football to realize that the team isn’t very good and isn’t going to be repaired overnight, and that a big reason we were bad last year is that we just weren’t very talented. There are still some big holes, but strides have been made in that department with the new guys and (hopefully) maturation of some of the young players already on the roster.
4-12 teams don’t reload, they rebuild. I feel much better about the future of this team than I did a year ago and am very happy that we have chosen to improve the team with young players that we can build around (as opposed to bringing in a lot of expensive, past-their prime “superstars” who would be a quick fix for the next few years. Wouldn’t be long before we were right back where we started with that approach).
Have faith in the process. It’s going to work.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
reality is starting to set in isnt it?
Hope that JM finds his way, and we have an 8-8 record
progress
Lynch just signed with the Pats
August 14th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
The Pinheaded Merchants of Hate and Division, gunned down the head of the Arkansas Democratic Party yesterday.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
Did you see what PFT says about the dallas denver scrimmage?
We are gonna destroy the donks
August 14th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
It’s going to get worse before it gets better, Kell. The pinheads are scared to death, and as history has shown us, they will do just about anything when they’re scared.
Lynch to the Pats… one more reason to hate the cheating b*st*rds.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
The Pats are getting players with senior citizen’s discounts on there contracts they will play for nothing when it’s for a good team
August 14th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
The football gods will have the Pats azz when it’s all said and done
August 14th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
We are one Kwame Harris away from JR getting killed this season and I’m not even confident that Harris can protect him as well. How can a team be comfortable with going into the season when they don’t like Mario Henderson as a backup LT? This is the biggest risk a team can make. You can teach until you’re blue in the face but it all comes down to playing good on the field. I’m worried that our offense isn’t going to look good and that will fall on the shoulders of Kiffin, even if its because the talent on the offense isn’t living up to standards. This offense is the key to Kiffin’s success as a Head Coach.
If we look terrible in the 1st 4 games. He could be gone by the Bye week. AD is quick to pull the plug. Also, our defense will need to be healthy in order to help the offense get through the first 4 games.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
they need to bring in o-line help plain and simple. our team has a tendency to get penalized often so we can’t just rely on the run. what do we do when we are 1st and 20 after getting a holding or false start penalty? run for twenty yards i hope. either our passing offense needs to improve or our ability to avoid stupid penaltys needs to improve. that is the only way our run offense will keep us on top
August 14th, 2008 at 3:51 pm
Maybe the coaching staff is ruining Russell by keeping him locked down with dumpoffs. Hes not Rich Gannon. This guy will need to air it out on Sundays but how can we do that with our offensive line. Sounds like the team should have invested more in that direction.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:52 pm
Good posts COW, agree with them all. I can see Kiffin starting the year off with 2 QB’s and then picking up a FA Vet that’s had some success in the league and happy to be a backup/mentor. That’s why he wanted to keep McCown (who oddly may be on his way back since the fins signed Pennington), but he wasn’t going pay him starter money to do it and Miami gave the clown a good payday and the chance to compete.
Tui gives us nothing (no talent, no experience, no leadership) - I’d rather reward Jeff Otis with a few regular season paychecks for being our summer camp arm for the last few years than carry Tui who should be just greatful (like Gary Kubiak behind Elway or Sorgi behind Manning) that he got a free ride and a 2nd round draft pick’s pay check for 6 years and got another freebie out of the Jets.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:52 pm
We haven’t even gotten into the penalty problems this team has year in and year out. Will that finally come to a halt this year? Probably not.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
i heard someone on espn radio today use the words “patriot nation” when he was talking about the patsy winning it all this season. i almost threw up.
August 14th, 2008 at 3:58 pm
NoLuv4Hoes - Yeah…They forgot to add in, “Patriot SpyGate Nation”. I can’t believe the league can hate the Raiders when the Pats win 3 Superbowls because they cheated. Maybe the Raiders were aggressive back in the 70’s but at least they won it on the field by being more physical.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
Darren McFadden
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHx0XPxw1VY
August 14th, 2008 at 4:08 pm
Ekejiuba starting at MLB????? Come on now, Ekejiuba is a ST player only, I dont think he played one down on defense last year, and he is a Will LB if he did.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:10 pm
Mort loves McSkinny hope he’s right fer once
August 14th, 2008 at 4:11 pm
Michael Bush
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KL5CBGEzbpk
August 14th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Mort and mom too
I picked him at #12 overall.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
The Raiders struggled against the run when they released Greg Biekert. They struggled when they releasd Danny Clark and they will struggle by the release of Edgerton Hartwell. Maybe all 3 of these guys are slower than Thomas and Morrison but our 2 guys aren’t as stout against the run. We need guys like Hartwell who don’t need speed for everything they do. We need guys who can out muscle when we absolutely need it. Thats what pisses me off so much about this defense. Speed alone doesn’t win.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Suzy Kolber is a pretty woman but do a image search on Ines Sainz latina sideline reporter OMFG she is fly
August 14th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Lane Kiffin, needs to hold up his end and produce a balanced passing scheme.
“We don’t need to become a pass heavy team, and throw the ball all over the place”
He sounds almost disdainful of a passing game.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
KoolKell, I agree.
Just Win Baby.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
I mean wow she is fine bro
August 14th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
FIRE KIFFIN - I’m only enjoying God’s creations. I like his work.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:26 pm
Gotta go with Vida Guerra She is the BOMB
August 14th, 2008 at 4:29 pm
Fire Kiffin and KoolKell hate the Raiders so much that they morphed into Chiefs fans.
Get used to it and if you don’t like it shut up or find another team. We are going to run the ball 40-45 times a game there will be no balanced attack it will be run run run.
Just like Big Ben’s first year in Pittsburgh he maybe got 20-25 throws a game. They ran the hell out of the ball.
I don’t see why that bothers the two of you so much?
August 14th, 2008 at 4:31 pm
RUN THE DAM BALL
im cool with it
August 14th, 2008 at 4:33 pm
No reason to be so hard on Russell or expect anything more than any other QB’s first year. Our ideal model for his development should look like Pittsburgh’s with Roethisberger, however we don’t have the run d or offensive line that pitt did/does. Hand the ball off 45 times a game and pass 18 or less. If he pulls a 70 QB rating in his 1st year as a starter then he’s doing well, by the same token if he bombs, so did Aikman, Manning, Elway, and countless others. This system is based on timing and high percentage NFL accuracy, the two most difficult things for a young QB. Kiffin has directed Russell to take care of the ball first, take no chances, and take what the defense gives you. Russell is doing as instructed, and although it’s like taking a lamborghini on your morning stop and go commute, it’s the best way to win now and get JR some experience (without getting him killed behind this o line).
Fortunately we have have a great run game, a strong pass D to keep the games close, and even if our line performs at the same level as last year, adding Wilson and moving Huff will push our run d to a respectable level. The first three teams we face are all offensively challenged, so Russell will also have three weeks of game experience where we don’t need to put up a lot of points before we beat the cr@p out of San Diego (I’m moving back down there in a week and I swear if we go 2-14 and beat the Chargers twice for the next three years I will revel in taunting those fair weather discharger losers - I can’t stand them. But I have to show up to the sports bar because one day, victory will be ours and after the B.S. I took down there for four years, I’ve got some choice words for them). But I digress…
Moving forward on JR, we have a weak o line and in these practices/scrimmages/etc. I would guess that the majority of the time Defense doesn’t have to play the run or adjust to stop it based on the score of the game, down and distance, time on the clock, etc. (they do run drills with that in mind, and as I recall from Jerry’s reports, our O got it’s fair share of wins in those scenarios) - they stay in the same D and because there’s no or limited tackling and no cut blocking and in real games we are going to rely heavily on our run game to open up the pass.
Anyway, last week JR went 2-5 with one deep ball that hit the reciever in the hands based on his very good read of single coverage and another out pattern where the WR fell down that looked to be on target. He could have easily been 4-5 for 80-100 yards, a great peformance we all would have been stoked with. His only bad ball came on a third or fourth and long deep throw that D was playing deep zone on - that’s not a high percentage throw for any QB in this league. His only other bad play was the sack he took, and that was Gallery and Grove’s fault for not reacting to a basic line stunt and Gallery in particular for not giving JR a place to step up in the pocket. I thought JR did everything right on that play, he felt the pressure, looked down the field, stepped up, and was still looking down the field as he moved toward the line of scrimmage (one of his best traits that I gaurantee is going to get us huge plays in the future) - he had all day to run so if he didn’t see anything, he probably would have picked up 10 yards before he slid to protect himself. In short, if his teamates played decently and blocked simple stunts and caught a couple balls that hit them in the hands, JR’s stat line would be 4-5 80 yards, 1 Rush 10 yards. He also escaped another QB pressure but Griffith got called for holding.
Let the preason play itself out and make sure you’re fair in his evaluation - his WR’s and o line must be held accountable when thier bad plays, missed assignments, penalties and the like put JR in bad passing situations, to say nothing of forcing Kiffin to keep in the TE and FB in to help block instead of putting them out into a pattern to give JR some more 1-1 options.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Yes yes to name a few but Halle Berry is my favorite of all time
August 14th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
KoolKell
You come in here and lay claim to the fact that you have some kind of depth and insight to add to the blog about our team.
This is what you posted last week and I had to correct you because you all knowing ass didn’t know what it was talking about. You claimed the Raiders would be copying the broncos for their cut blocking scheme and you asked all of us how we felt about that.
I kindly reminded you of a guy named Bob Mckitrick who taught the cut blocking scheme in 49er land way before Shanahan got a hold of it.
So this is the wonderful insight that KoolKell brings to the blog!!!
Ans he has the nerve to call me an Idiot. LMAO!!
August 14th, 2008 at 4:37 pm
JediRaider
Nice post and thanks for reinforcing the point I was trying to make earlier #207 regarding the comparison to Big Ben.
I don’t see why that upsets people so much.