Scouring the wires
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Sunday, August 24th, 2008 at 6:47 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Quick hits from Lane Kiffin’s conference call press briefing Sunday night:
– Kiffin is expecting the Raiders to be on the lookout for potential replacements for fullback Oren O’Neal and wide receiver Drew Carter, both lost for the season with left knee injuries.
At fullback, Marcel Reece, although an intriguing talent who could have a place on the practice squad, is not ready for prime time on Sept. 8 in the backfield.
“We really only have one with Justin (Griffith),” Kiffin said. “The other guy is a project, he was a receiver a month ago.”
Aside from starting split end Javon Walker and wide receiver Ronald Curry, the seven receivers currently on the Raiders roster have combined for seven receptions for 66 yards. Six of those for 49 yards come from Johnnie Lee Higgins, while Chris McFoy had one catch for 19 yards after being promoted from the practice squad last year.
Jonathan Holland, Drisan James, Todd Watkins and of course rookie draft picks Arman Shields and Chaz Schilens have not caught a pass in the NFL.
“There’s not a lot of history there as far as guys playing in the league besides Javon and Ronald,” Kiffin said. “Really, none of those guys have really played before. Johnnie played a few, I think he had two or three catches last year so it would be tough to only go with two guys who have played before.”
– Veterans available include the perennially troubled but talented Koren Robinson _ whose best success has been on kickoff returns _ and veteran Joe Horn, who has talked his way out of his last two places of employment. Horn’s agent told ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson he expected to talk to the Raiders, but it’s not as if agents ever say, “It’s the darndest thing. No one is interested in my client.”
When it comes to players who aren’t currently employed, there is usually a reason why they’re not employed.
Not that the Raiders won’t be interested.
“There are always a few guys who have been veterans at every position that wait for things to happen like this, for teams to get injuries,” Kiffin said. “They stay in shape and they know their bodies so they know they can still come in late in camp and still contribute.
“That’s one option. There are a number of guys out there. Another option is to wait either until a couple of days for these first cuts or even more for the last cuts. The last cuts, some good people are getting let go on some of the good teams.”
– For the record, Mike Williams is available. So are Johnnie Morant, Doug Gabriel and Carlos Francis.
Never mind.
– As much as the Raiders like Shields’ skill set, his odds of making the 53-man roster appear slim.
“I wouldn’t want to put a ceiling on it but it would be pretty tough,” Kiffin said. “These guys have had so many reps of running our offense, he’s missed so much time. It would be difficult but you never want to count him out.”
Kiffin hopes Shields will be available to practice, although that has been a common theme throughout camp.
– When asked about players possibly in for tryouts, Kiffin could have said, “We’ve got some things going, but I’m not at liberty to say,” or something along those lines, because teams don’t often confirm tryouts.
Instead, (editorial comment to follow) Kiffin lent even more clarity to his current authority with regard to personnel when he said, “I have no idea.”
– OK, enough with the Darren McFadden as Jerome Bettis act. The end is apparently near, with the Denver Broncos on the horizon Sept. 8.
“All I can say on that is I have to continue to remind you guys that it’s preseason and you guys can figure out what that means,” Kiffin said.
– With Ricky Brown apparently having sewed up the job as strong side linebacker and Johnnie Lee Higgins looking to be the return specialist by default, the only real question left is starting center. Kiffin had Jake Grove in the lead last week, but said he may have information regarding a depth chart this week.
– JaMarcus Russell earned generally positive reviews for the third straight time. Russell went 14-for-28 for 140 yards, but missed out twice on potential touchdown passes _ the first when Zach Miller nearly came down with a ball in the end zone but was ruled out, the second when a pass into the back of the end zone glanced off the hands of Curry, who was being jostled by a defender.
On the Curry play, Kiffin thought it may have been worth a flag for defensive interference.
“He had one poor throw, the interception,” Kiffin said. “Other than that, he didn’t force things. He did well, especially under all the pressure he was under. He wasn’t back there setting his feet a lot. He had to move around a lot and made plays on the run.”
– Kiffin acknowledged that Fred Wakefield struggled when inserted at right tackle, where he played in place of Cornell Green for much of the second half.
– Safety Rashad Baker (ankle), cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha (ankle) and safety Hiram Eugene (hip) could all miss practice Monday. Shane Lechler probably will not kick, meaning Glenn Pakulak may be retained on the roster through Tuesday cutdowns. Sebastian Janikowski could be available, meaning Aaron Elling could be seeking employment.
– Maybe “Super” Mario Henderson is the answer to the receiving woes. He lined up as a tight end on the left side, and was even announced as an eligible receiver. Michael Bush ran behind him to get a first down.
Kiffin said he was just giving opponents something to look at.
– In Oakland, Kiffin ran a two-minute drill for no apparent reason in the first half other than to get a look at it. He abandoned the run, went for a touchdown when normally would attempt a field goal and attached absolutely no significance to the supposedly most important week of the preseason other than the fact he lost two offensive players for the duration of the season.
Elsewhere, Tom Brady and LaDainian Tomlinson aren’t likely to play until the lights go on. Teams continue to charge full price for half-(bleep) games.
You’ll never hear me trashing Raider fans for failing to show up in August. It’s an instance where they’re showing their good sense. Even a lot of people buying season tickets aren’t bothering to show, because the 39,000-plus announced crowd was pretty much a joke.
The Raiders were offering up partial season ticket plans Saturday night, and seem to be actually making some headway in marketing which would really pay off should the team finally be worth watching.
Come up with a full season ticket plan in February that doesn’t include the preseason and then they’ve done something.
I know. Lots of money at stake. Can’t be done. Blah, blah, blah.
It’s never a bad thing to tailgate on a Saturday evening in the sunshine. But paying full price for the scrimmage to follow is an insult to the paying customers _ not just in Oakland, but throughout the league.
[You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.]
August 24th, 2008 at 6:49 pm
Can usain bolt catch?
August 24th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
You would probably enjoy that MR. Unfortunately for you I’m straight.
Here’s someone who might be interested in what you’re asking for…
http://www.outsports.com/nfl/20021027eseramain.htm
Oh yeah. Don’t bother responding.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:00 pm
Kiffin lent even more clarity to his current authority with regard to personnel when he said, “I have no idea.”
I’m starting to like this guy.
Just Win Baby.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:01 pm
Good to see Russell’s performance didn’t go unnoticed by the coaching staff and it’s nice to hear there is at least legitimate interest in addressing potential depth concerns.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:03 pm
God keep Joe Horn out of S&B
August 24th, 2008 at 7:03 pm
I must agree FK, Kiffin’s recent statements put to rest the ever popular “Kiffin is building this team” theory, lol.
…but I am sure Kiffin is control of the draft….
lmfao
August 24th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
I want to sign Horn simply because it adds competition. I doubt he would make the roster and he could help motivate/mentor(I know I’m asking for it here) the young guys.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
Jerry Mac Says:
“paying full price for the scrimmage to follow is an insult to the paying customers _ not just in Oakland, but throughout the league.”
Thanks Jerry for calling a preseason game exactly what it is. A televised scrimmage game. Nuff said.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
Kiffin does not even have the authority to cut Grant Irons. Pathetic.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
Tommy, you said, I said it, and now kiffin has said it: I liked what JR did on Saturday against the Cardinals. I liked that he just made the one bad pass, and that he did not get away with it. I did not like that he was forcing passes to Miller in tight coverage, but he did get away with that last week for a TD against Tennessee, so i guess I can’t blame him for trying to go to the same well.
Javon showed up. I have to agree somewhat with Javon’s assessment, give him a few chances to make some plays. I see no reason why this guy cant get 60-70 grabs along with Miller.
I know we need some depth at wr, but honestly I am kind of interested in seeing the Raiders use Darren McFadden in the slot or even wide: motioned out of the backfield. Curry does a good job in the slot, and Javon Walker is a wild card that can make big plays: I promise.
JR showed great poise in the pocket. I know he was quick to get out of there on a few occasions, but I rather see that than him trying to wait until someone gets open: his mental clock is ticking, one thousand one one thousand two, one thous… oh time to get the hell out of here. That sort of mind set will serve him well this year.
again that scramble in the 2nd that was offset by Cornell green lining up as a full back was one hell of an escape. We got ourselves a QB.
He looks way better than VY or Lienart.
Now he got to run down Cutler.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Kiffin is playing right into Al’s hands by making these calculated statements about the inept roster management by Al Davis.
If Kiffin keeps it up, soon the Al-loving portion of Raider Nation will turn on Kiffin for telling the truth about Al and then Al can fire Kiffin without as much of a fan backlash as he would have experienced back in January. Al will claim insubordination as grounds for the firing and refuse to honor the contract. Good luck trying to collect your money Kiffin.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Jerry,thanks for the update!I guess the powers that be give a rats(DEN COACH)A-SS about costs of pre season games!At least consider 18reg/2preseason!
August 24th, 2008 at 7:16 pm
RN951,
I agree with you. I rather see Dmac develop as a receiver, along with the other youngsters, than hear Joe Horn talk about himself in the 3rd person not getting playing time: “Joe Horn needs to be on the field to make plays” says Joe Horn.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
I just realized that the year we took fabian and stanford….we missed out on Tatupu and Thurman. Luckily for us we got Morrison in the 3rd.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:18 pm
# dick v Says:
August 24th, 2008 at 7:12 pm
that scramble in the 2nd that was offset by Cornell green lining up as a full back was one hell of an escape. We got ourselves a QB.
He looks way better than VY or Lienart.
Dick V I couldn’t agree with you more. After all of these years since Rich Gannon retired, we can finally say that “We got ourselves a QB.”
August 24th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
Dakota,how many clubs want the answer to youre question,Post#1
August 24th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
[...] The Wires JMACS Blog Scouring the wires - Inside The Oakland Raiders - A look inside the world of the highly classified O… Quick hits from Lane Kiffins conference call press briefing Sunday night: Kiffin is expecting [...]
August 24th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
Dick V,
LOl hilarious…..”the ball is like a one-man cold to Joe Horn. Joe Horn the only catchin it, Joe Horn the only one comin down wit it.”
August 24th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
When an NFL coach goes 4 - 12 and then gets fired, there is no fan backlash. Blogs don’t count. Al left Oakland. Do you really think Al cares about fan backlash?
August 24th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
I hate to tell you all I told you so, but…Drew Carter has never worked out anywhere: Ohio State, Carolina, and now in Oakland. The man is just injury prone. That game is too physical for most, and Carter is just not cut out for it.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
I see Miller getting 50-60 for 500-700 yards, Curry getting 60-80 for 900-1100 yards, and Walker getting 30-80 for 400-1200 yards. That meaning, we know what we have in Miller and Curry, Walker is a wildcard that could help open up our offense. McFadden is the X Factor but Walker takes pressure off of him in a big way, if he can step up that is. I’m less concerned about WR depth because 3 WR sets will be an anomally, especially considering how effective our RBs and TEs are in the passing game.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:21 pm
Sam Williams and Grant Irons will probably make the team for no good reason. Ridiculous. Move Aaron Elling to linebacker while we’re at it. Move Pakulak to Offensive Tackle.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:22 pm
After every third person phrase its mandatory that u say “baby” it provides spice to the comment….ex. “primetime gots to do his thang on the field baby”
August 24th, 2008 at 7:23 pm
Carter does not have weak bones, weak muscles, or a weak mind. He is unfortunate enough to have week ligaments and joints, and that is the “kiss of death” in football.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
THANK’S SEVERERAIDER WE HAVE ALL SEEN ” THE REPLACEMENTS”
August 24th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
I will say that I am pleased with Ricky Brown. That guy has been all over the field. I don’t recall how good he was in pass coverage but he seems like a run stuffer. I will admit that I wasn’t high on him at first but he plays big and makes Robert Thomas look like a midget. I am still upset over letting Hartwell go. I think this team would be alot more solid against the run if he were here but hey…Kiffin doesn’t make the decisions obviously so theres only one person to question for this decision.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:25 pm
Severe knows Joe Horn well. the only person who will be happy about Joe Horn coming to Oakland would probably be Jerry cuz the dude has a knack for saying some quirky stuff.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
To HUFF24- And you are WHERE on the roster….???? I ask you again, how many downs have YOU played in the NFL????!!!!
August 24th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
Sam Williams should make the team because of his specil teams play. Why Grant Irons is on the roster is anyones guess. We are wasting time putting Shields on the IR, and i think that is what Kiffin was alluding to when he said it would be difficult for him to make the team. He knows that Al likes him and was saying that if he wants to keep him the IR would be the only way to go.
Is it just me or does it seem that Kiffin had much more say last year. Cutting a 3rd rounder (Moses) and a veteran that he is a fan of (Darius) is not in the “Al Davis book on How to win wit da Raidahs”. It seems that Al stripped Kiffin after a dissappointing year in his eyes and is going back to his way. Its like he gave it the ole college try when it comes to giving a coach personell power and was let down and didnt want to give it more time to develop.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
I like the idea of trading a future pick to New Orleans for Devery Henderson, I heard Pat Kirwan talking about that a few weeks back on sirius “moving the chains”, but other than that I do not know anyone that is up for grabs. Boldin is out of the question, but I would love to have him if it were even possible: If Al could pull that off, that ought to make Lane bite his tongue for the rest of the year.
Before the game a few fans called to Anquan Boldin when he was coming out of the locker room, and they told him something to the extent of we would love to have you here in Oakland, and Anquan responded cheerfully something to the extent of he would like to be here in Oakland making plays. I know it aint going to happen, but my mind starting racing none the less day dreaming of Russell hitting Boldin on a slant route.
Just offer up the 1st, and 2nd for 09, we wont mind Al.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
Severe Kiff had more say and control last year, but then he started running his mouth while he was window shopping for jobs at Arkansas and UCLA.
al cut him down a bit. That is all opinion, and we could argue til my face turns blue if that actually happened.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
[...] [Raiders] Raiders Rookie WR Arman Shields’ Chances Are Slim As much as the Raiders like rookie WR Arman Shields skill set, his odds of making the 53-man roster appear slim. I wouldnt want to put a ceiling on it but it would be pretty tough, Kiffin said. These guys have had so many reps of running our offense, hes missed so much time. It would be difficult but you never want to count him out. Kiffin hopes Shields will be available to practice, although that has been a common theme throughout camp. Source: Oakland Tribune [...]
August 24th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
Brien<——–besides injured players………Saturday night was the best thing that could happen to us…..I’M ESTATIC that now when Denver comes to town the team will play with a chip on its shoulder!!!!! They needed this!!!
August 24th, 2008 at 7:36 pm
Jake Grove=should not start……terrible on that Mcfadden screen play before the hlaf when he whiffed again on the defender
August 24th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
Its too bad the Ravens recently signed Lorenzo Neal. We could have added that guy to pick up for the loss of O’Neal.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
http://www.nfl.com/videos;jsessionid=F5B5851B90CD38D8F8968FFB23B86802?videoId=09000d5d80a33a5c
DeSean Jackson punt return.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
Devery is a burner but i have heard his hands come into question more than once. What do you all think of Randle El, would solve retuner problems and is a quality 3rd receiver. With Malcolm Kelly and Devin Thomas there Washington might be willing to take a 3rd or 4th for him.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:38 pm
As we all knew the Tackles just dont cut it…….Kwame Harris is a soft 49er punk…….he did he “Simply red” impression saturday night
Cornell Green is a backup…….shouldnt be starting……….need someone else to be there because I was at the game and as usual he just doesnt have it stop a pass rusher
August 24th, 2008 at 7:38 pm
I’d gladly trade our first this year and 2nd next year for Boldin, and that’s saying something as I am always an advocate of “build through the draft.” Why pass on a sure thing that’s still young. It won’t happen, but it’d be great for both teams.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
Brien<———outro……….got alot of shhhhhit to do tomorrow but I still stand by the Raiders winning the division
August 24th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
Brien, good to hear from you. Finally a voice of reason on this blog.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
Kiffin is building the team.
The kid got his draft and free agents too.
Win, or hit the bricks…Al can’t wait forever.
Pride and Poise.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Fan 4 Decades - What does me being on an NFL roster have anything to do with my criticizing decisions? Thats why this blog was created wasn’t it? We might as well get rid of the NFL Network and ESPN because nobody has the right to criticize. Can everyone please stop talking here as you are not on an NFL roster. Can all the networks stop broadcasting? The fact that the NFL has gotten bigger because of the fan exposure does nothing for the sport anymore. Can we please stop this madness? Thank you for your cooperation.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:41 pm
#41…lmao!
August 24th, 2008 at 7:42 pm
I agree Dick V, I think that is exactly what happened. Combine that with the fact that he had a less than stellar 1st year and just about forced Al’s hand in the Moss situation and presto change-o, he gets cut down to size. Many forget Kiff wanted to go Petrino on us….way to show that dedication to getting the job done.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:42 pm
Everyone has spoken already so allow me…
- 25 Offensive plays, 21 passes and 4 runs, that´s how we started the game.
We´ll never see anything like that again, keep that in mind.
Even with AZ ready to defend the pass we only gave up 1 sack by FB Griffith, none by the OL during that 25 play span.
Russell was pressured but that´s to be expected when the other team knows you are passing.
Russell showed his playmaking skills by avoiding the pressure and keeping plays alive.
It was good to see Russell face a tough situation and handle it well.
No drops from Walker, Curry or Higgins.
- Like someone mentioned before, had we gone with our normal, run-first offense, we would have had a double digit lead at the Half……but that would have served no purpose in this game.
If Kiffin wanted to win the game and “look good” we would have won the game, it´s that simple.
IMO, he wanted the offense to get a feel for what it´s like to have to abandon the run and have the defense know what´s coming, that´s what the games are like when you are down by a couple of scores late in the game and we may have to deal with that at some point in the season.
On Defense, 1st Half:
AZ had 46 rushing yards in 11 carries, with a long of 9 that featured a rare Nnamdi whiffed tackle on Edge, meanwhile Boldin and Fitzgerald combined for just 4 catches and 30 yards.
The coverage was great and the pass rush forced Leinart out of the pocket a few times.
We need our starting Safeties back there to limit the big runs, in those 3rd Quarter runs Jarrod Cooper was atrocious replacing Wilson, I liked Branch´s effort but he is a rookie, that big cast didn´t help either.
I know, we shouldn´t have to expect the Secondary to be such a big part of stopping the run, but it is what it is, they know it and that´s why they got Gibril and replaced Fabian and Stu with Hall and Huff.
JLH learned his lesson, if there´s nothing there, don´t try to be a hero and play it safe.
Last but not least….
Javon Walker appeared to be in great shape, made a few plays and was open all day.
Tommy Kelly was a force inside, he stuffed a couple of runs for no gain, forced a fumble and was able to collapse the pocket.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
If Kiffin honestly doesn’t know what’s going on personnel wise, then saying “I have no idea” is hardly insubordination. He’s just telling how it is.
It’s not Al Davis fault that Carter got injured, but beyond Carter, Walker and Curry, all the other receivers are either inexperienced or under-qualified.
I wouldn’t expect to uncover any real gems among this next round of cuts.
This years team definitely looks like a work in progress. Some guys might emerge as real players over the course of the season while many others will prove to be under-achievers that need to be replaced.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:45 pm
Dakota a little conservative sidejab eh?
August 24th, 2008 at 7:45 pm
Bo you can’t be serious…Kiffin is building the team? Come on man.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:46 pm
Common sense says that even though we went 4-12 last season, six losses were by 7 points or less. Our division is falling apart before our eyes, including the once mighty SD Dischargers.
We have upgraded our talent on offense and defense, and finally have a decent quarterback with infinite potential.
Common sense says that doubling our win total from last season and going at least 500 is completely reasonable and snaeking into the playoffs as a wildcard is not far fetched.
Unfortunately, common sense is severely lacking by too many posters, ahem, posers on this blog.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:47 pm
damn shame about carter………..so its Walker, Curry, Jlh, Watkins and Chaz Schilens……….I’m fine with it………we will be running the rock untilthe middle of the season as I’ve been telling folks its the best plan
August 24th, 2008 at 7:47 pm
Brien,
See post #92 on the last thread…you might like it.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:48 pm
Last I looked Johnnie Morant was playing in the CFL for the Argos.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:48 pm
Jerry - If I didn’t know any better I would say you are not happy with preseason? Ha…well at least you see it for what it is unlike some of your posters here, with all due respect of course. I mean really. A running team totally abandoning the run from the 1st snap, going for it on 4th and 8 when you can kick a FG and telegraphing what you want to accomplish before the game and you all take this seriously? What a joke.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:49 pm
I was waiting to hear your Grove analysis. I thought you would have said something along the lines of he missed a lot of calls since their blitzing was so effective. But you’re right, he did miss ONE BLOCK the whole half.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:49 pm
If we can somehow get Naplean Harris again…maybe we can pull off another 1st round pick and Harris for Boldin?
Seriously though…I would have no problems with trading a 2009 1st round and 2010 2nd round pick for his rights. The tandem of Boldin, Walker and Curry “should be” disruptive for teams. Thats what we expected from Moss, Porter and Curry as well but I’m willing to give it another shot. I don’t think Boldin takes plays off the way Moss did.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
The thing with Kiffin’s comment is that it is not being a team guy. He could’ve easily used the coach speak and said something while saying nothing ala Bellicheat, but he didn’t. It looks as if he is trying to show Al up, and if/when he gets fired it will be another episode of “When Keeping it Real Goes Wrong” mark my words. Last year he wouldn’t even reveal who his opening day starter is, now all of a sudden he is disclosing the personal info of Oren and saying that he knows nothing of what the team he is coaching is doing roster wise???
August 24th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Severeraider–
What teams are Moses and Donovan playing for now? Like Jerry says, when a guy is unemployed, it’s probly for a reason.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
Like you’ve been telling folks ???
Gotta luv it!
August 24th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
Jhill he totally whiffed on the Dmac screen play!! And when we ran he got zero push!!!!!! Missed one block he didnt do nada the entire first half. He cant blow anyone off the ball and is not strong at the point of attack………Wade will have to start if this team doesnt want to be below 500
August 24th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
Kiffin is a damn idiot for running play action on 4th and 4 near the endzone
August 24th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
Calling John Ritchie…
August 24th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
By the way, I agree with you on the tackle situation … Actually rewatching the game right now, with clicker mind you, and Harris looks awful on at least 50% of the plays I’ve seen, and I’m just at the 8:29 mark of the second qtr when we got screwed on the Kelly forced fumble.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
You would want the WR to go a little deeper on thier routes but how can they when Harris and Green totaly suck?
August 24th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
What’s tim dwight been up to? He was a decent receiver/returner last year, and he’s familiar with our system.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
Wouldn’t it be ironic if Kiffin got fired after week 4, during the bye week, James Lofton took over and by the end of the season, Shanahan got fired with Kiffin taking over as Head Coach, only to wreak revenge on the Raiders for the next 20 years? We can’t let this happen.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
Dakota………i wish
August 24th, 2008 at 7:55 pm
Al Davis still regrets not getting anything of value for Randy Moss. That was Kiffin’s decision and that was IMO one of the worst decisions he ever made.
Ocho Cinco wants out of Cincy, Boldin wants out of AZ as well. But I guarantee they ain’t leaving for nothing in return. Even if they gotta sit for most of the season. They are too valuable to let go for nothing.
So Al Davis has taken that control away from Kiffin until he proves to him that he can make those big time decisions and not drop the ball. Sounds reasonable to me.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
Jerry said Kiffin COULD HAVE SAID he’s not at liberty to discuss workouts…IF he had said that would it have made a difference? Nice way to stir the pot, Jerry. Kiffin was just being honest…or was he?
August 24th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
I didnt say i would keep either, im just saying that its not a usual move that al would make…..read the post again. That being said i would rather have Moses than Scott, but thats just my opinion.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:57 pm
I’m watching the game now B and I totally disagree. Believe it or not, I am totally focused on Grove, with the clicker mind you, because of your bashing. So far, so good with 7:19 to go in the 2nd qtr.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:59 pm
Moses couldn’t beat out Richardson and now we’re seeing Richardson making strides as a DE. Chris Clemons as a great edge rusher for us last year and now Kalimba Edwards has stepped into the role nicely. Where would Moses have fit in with us? He couldn’t beat out Richardson and he couldn’t keep his job with 2 more teams after that so I think Kiffin made the right decision.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:59 pm
Jhill its okay you can keep disagreeing RIGHT NOW…….
August 24th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
huh. Marley, you noticed how bad Coop was too …he was pretty pad out there.
Good pointed out the lop-sided stats on pass vs run. I think Kiffin got a lot accomplished in this game. The Offensive line, RBs and JR got a lot out of it. They’ll only get better from it. Thats the way to use a scrimmage to your advantage.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
My biggest problem with the oline so far, besides Harris, is the missed assignments. Too many people running free. The blitzes are not being recognized and we are ending up with LBs running free. It’s mostly Green and Harris that are not adjusting.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
Post 58 - Great post Severe. I completely agree.
Just Win Baby.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:01 pm
Brien<——–was sitting at the game with an original Raider…………..my grandfather and he just like me is sick to his stomach about him
August 24th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
Jhill just you wait until the season when defenses get more complicated with thier blitz schemes……..the offensive line iwll have its issues as long as Grove,Harris and Green are out there
August 24th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
Ok, so I’m hearing that there is no need to worry about Harris or Green as we won’t be running those plays during the season?
We’ll be a dominant running team, so the ends won’t be able to tee off on our Tackles because they’ll be on their heels expecting run?
Is that what you guys are saying?
August 24th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
I’ll have to re-watch the game but I personally thought Harris did a decent job all things considered. There wasn’t a whole lot of pressure coming off the left side. It was mostly coming off the right side with Green and Cooper. The Cards were flooding the right side as I remember. Center was a problem to with picking up blitzers.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:05 pm
LOL …
Ok, Grove is an enemy of the whole family ???
I get it.
I’ll just leave it alone, my man.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
The important thing is…Kiffin isn’t afraid to go 24-0 in a pre-season game to prove a point. He put his team in a scrimmage situation to put on film all the weaknesses of the Raiders so that he could use that to teach the team on how to improve on that and get better. You can’t do that in the regular season, nor would you want to for the sake of the record. I think this game answered alot of questions for us and I think its clear that the Raiders must control the clock with the run, tire out the opposing defense, which will open up the passing game and keep our defense off the field and the opposing RB who wants to run through it off the field as well.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
no he isnt my dad and uncle think liek you
August 24th, 2008 at 8:08 pm
#10…accurate account of what real Raider fans saw last night…thank you for enlightning most, not all, of the others with that post…
August 24th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
Wait til you watch it again Terrapin. I didn’t remember Harris looking nearly as bad as he did, especially when you look at the play in slow mo. He’s whiffing on running plays, getting knocked backwards on passing plays, as well as missing blitz pickups.
Did I mention his penalty?
And I’m still only half way thru the 2nd qtr.
Green had a penalty for not lining up correctly, and he too has missed some blitz pickups.
CC and Grove and doing just fine so far.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
I think we also learned that its important to blitz the opposing QB because getting pressure on him will force him into mistakes and I truly believe, we have one of the most talented secondaries in the league and we can capitalize on that.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
For those who missed it here is a clip from China’s ending ceremonies:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkzAJs7NutM
August 24th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
Are people surprised that we had a hard time when “forced” to air it out at an 80-20 pass-run ratio?.
Where have you people been?.
The OL still needs some work, the QB needs some work, you didn´t know that?.
I don´t see what the big deal is.
Let´s say Kiffin comes out running, we take advantage of the turnovers, play it safe and have Russell hand it off and limit his opportunities in the passing game…..we take a good lead in the half and end up winning or losing a close game.
People would “feel” better but we would not have made any progress as a team, believe it or not, last night´s game will be very valuable to the Staff.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:12 pm
Don’t be surprised to see this team win games with scores like 20-10 or 21-17 or 23-20 or 10-6 and so on. It doesn’t matter what the score is in the end as long as we win.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:13 pm
Marley, less is more.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:13 pm
Bob Marley - You’re right. We can even consider the fact that Kiffin told the media that we were planning on passing alot so the Cardinals were prepared for that ahead of time as well. I think Kiffin wanted the other team to be prepared for that so he could challenge our offense.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
Huff some games will be like that……some will shall dominate when we figure out a proper oline lineup
August 24th, 2008 at 8:16 pm
Doesn’t it just make you feel better knowing that Merriman won’t be traumatizing Cornell Green on every play? That has to help a little. Addition by subtraction.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:17 pm
Kush #68
Get over Moss already, will ya! Nobody wanted to give up anything for him. Even with Brett Favre clamoring to get him, the Packers wouldn’t part with so much as a 4th round draft choice. Al Davis had the opportunity to get a decent player for Moss with the draft pick but he drafted John Bowie.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:18 pm
For all we know…Bowie is the next Asomugha. Aso didn’t do anything his first 3 years.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:26 pm
Huff24…that´s right.
Not facing Merriman and Jared Allen 4 times next season is a big break for Kwame, Russell and everyone else involved.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:26 pm
Huff24–
In that case, it was a great trade!
August 24th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
Kiffin was already confident in the run game. Why put more focus on that? He needed to see what Walker, Carter, Higgins, Schilens could do and get JR up to speed. The goal of the game was not to put a notch in the pre-season win column. What good does that do when the season starts for real?
August 24th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
As a matter of fact B, Grove has to takedown block where he ends up standing over his man. I won’t go as far as to say they were pancakes, but I’ll take it.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:40 pm
dakota;
1. i watched jon ritchie as an analyst. Forgot who he was for (network).
2. I don’t think kiffin is playing into ad’s hands so much as he is taking linda tripp’s advice to monica. Make it public or you may end up dead! He’s making it public so when he gets “relieved” he can say “wtf, i need players!” THe rest of the league will understand and he will be a hero.
3. CT beat SD.
4. How was the other SD? DId you mistake merriman for tomlinson????? LOL! He might be done… words of wisdom.. “NO NEEDLES.. MORE HEALTHY”
August 24th, 2008 at 8:42 pm
OK now I see what you were saying Jhill. Harris was having a tough go at it too. He needs to improve for sure. The whole line was having problems with the blitz pickups. So Kiffin & Co knows it needs to be emphasized in practice. At the same time, Russell had enough time to find his targets. It wasn’t pretty and he should get more time, but with the right playcalling he should (&was) getting enough time to find his WRs. Still the line must improve.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:46 pm
armchair: when i played college baseball, i never wanted the catcher to throw down between innings or if he did.. lob it… because he didn’t have the strongest arm. I didn’t want the opposition drueling. ofcourse after a while everyone knows anyway. I think by showing all pass and getting 0 pts.. we’re going to see 9 in the box because everyone knows we can’t pass now.
August 24th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
I like Kiffin, but I hate when he seems to get depressed at times and says this or that is discouraging.
Can we pass block? No we can’t, but play to your strengths and stop whining that you’re not coaching an All-Pro team.
Is O’Neals injury a blow? Yes. But it is what it is. The team has to move on.
Is that a California thing where you guys sulk and hang your heads when something doesn’t go your way ?
Pick your head up Lane and get back on the damn horse.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:00 pm
Jim #102–
I think a loaded box was going to be the case anyway, given JR’s inexperience and our receiver situation. Teams are going to make Jamarcus show that he can beat them with his arm.
Higgins, Schilens and Watkins are going to have to mature real fast. Curry, Walker and Miller can’t do it all by themselves. Last year Raider wide receivers other than Porter and Curry had about 17 catches combined and we all saw how that worked out.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
Bob Marley,
Exactly!
August 24th, 2008 at 9:05 pm
My final thoughts: Will everyone who has never played in the NFL or is not a former or current NFL GM kindly refrain from expressing your opinion in this blog!
August 24th, 2008 at 9:06 pm
i love revenge of the nerds
August 24th, 2008 at 9:08 pm
And I just saw the screen play ..
Hardly a whiff. Mcfadden didn’t set up the block, went straight to the sideline, so grove never had an angle to get that guy.
C’mon!
August 24th, 2008 at 9:12 pm
hey jerry
johnnie morant actually isn’t available
he’s playing for the toronto argonauts in CFL
and he has one of the top catches of the CFL season - more or less ripping the ball out of the DB’s hands and then running for the TD
August 24th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
Maybe we should grab Peerless Price and Lo Neal.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:21 pm
Were my eyes failing me or were there many entire sections in the third deck almost totally devoid of spectators? I suppose that means there are no season ticket holders in those sections, or did they all move down to better seats elsewhere? Unless there are a lot of single tickets sold for most games there aren’t going too many televised sellouts. Jerry was right. No way were there 39,000 persons present. What happened to all the Raider Nation diehards who couldn’t wait to get a glimpse of their beloved Super Bowl bound Raiduhs? It appeared that even season ticket holders couldn’t be bothered to show up. Did they take the wife out to the movies instead?
August 24th, 2008 at 9:23 pm
Where is Alvis Whitted when he is really needed?
August 24th, 2008 at 9:24 pm
DeShawn Jackson went in the second round. We should have gone after him. Our punt and ko return game is still suspect.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
I heard he spent last night playing gin rummy with Johnny Morant, Carlos Francis, Mike Williams, Doug Gabriel and Tim Dwight
August 24th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
For the record, Mike Williams is available. So are Johnnie Morant, Doug Gabriel and Carlos Francis.
…wow who wants to go down that road again?
August 24th, 2008 at 9:30 pm
No one goes to pre season games. Even after they’ve paid for the tickets. It happens in every stadium in the league. It is not at all unusual.
First off, screw Alvis Whitted. We REALLY NEED kenyon Rambo. Blitzalot we didn’t have a 2nd rounder. It went for DeAngelo Hall. If I had my choice I would rather have a 2 time pro bowl corner, who is 24 than a 5′9″ 160 pounder who may be real good. And I’m a HUGE Cal guy.
Lastly someone get Lorenzo Neal on the phone. We can use him.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Maybe Tennessee will trade us their 4th round receiver, Lavelle Hawkins, for our 4th round pick, Arman Shields. Then again, probably not.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Al -
If you want to win.
Get
Boldin
Now
August 24th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
#111…no, actually those were the cheap seats up top, where fans will GLADLY pay 25-55 dollars for a ticket to the real game…pay attention to your niners this week, yes, it may be officially “sold out”, but I highly doubt there will be 60,000 this Friday to watch a third string journeyman in a cold, windy dump like Candlestick…
August 24th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
I think a boldin trade is possible, give a 2nd rnd pk for the guy. For the record I like Doug Gabriel. Finally, worse then the ticket prices is the $25 per car charge for tailgating.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:41 pm
Out of all the FA WR’s, there are only a few who aren’t injury prone and could come in right away and help..they are vets on the verge of retirement, but who knows? Maybe one of these old heads can come in and provide a few key first downs and a few touchdowns…
August 24th, 2008 at 9:42 pm
post 111,,May I gather youre A Whiner fan,seeking attention ,still upset the Raiders won? Its pre season,jackass,I CHOSE TO STAY till halftime,and left!As a season ticket holder I put my money where my mouth is,not that its any of youre business,chump
August 24th, 2008 at 9:45 pm
People in here sure like to cry about the price of things…maybe you guys should get a better job so you wouldnt have to cry poor,..but Im pretty sure even if you could afford to go to games you wouldnt,..more important things for you to do,..watch the game from your couch and blog about it.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:48 pm
Ya ok Glenn,..sure you were.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:50 pm
Glenn,..youre a friend of briens right?…hes always at out tailgate,..you are welcome too,..love to have you there…for Denver?
August 24th, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Yeah, Jim, your head is spinning from wine and norcos isn’t it???? You probably don’t even know where you are right now do you??? You’re on the planet earth Jim. Remember that.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Glenn,…why are you so unhappy tonight?…seem hostile…having a bad night?
August 24th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
Jim, I’ll be there. Thanks for the invite! I’ll buy ya drink inside as well.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Aw,..poor little madden mad again?..what is it this time bud?…Im sure you have endless reasons for your unhappiness,..what is it this time?…maybe I can help….lol…poor baby.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Nah,..save your money bud,..just come by the tailgate,..I will make sure you get treated right.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
JL, I’m in a great mood. If you say something to me that is patently crazy, I’m going to respond in a like manner. Telling me I don’t go to games is patently crazy. Shoot, I go to the away games.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
No hard feelings right??
August 24th, 2008 at 10:03 pm
Madden,…youre real life and blog life, you cant tell the difference anymore,…you cant even be yourself in here,..you have to use others names because you have lost sight of who you are,..you simply pick a name of someone in here, then post with it,…its a bummer for you that you cannot even have your own identity,..you post lies constantly,..but in defense of you, you may not be able to tell your lies from truth,…you have gone so far off course you dont remember what you are talking about anymore,…madden, you certainly have lost your mind,..maybe the blame is the internet…maybe thats when you lost any sense of reality,…get some help bud, before its too late….good luck. Night.
August 24th, 2008 at 10:05 pm
go get doug gabriel. never understood why we got rid of him in the first place. he’s no game-breaker, but he’s also not old(horn), fat(williams), or a drunk(robinson)plus he’d give a little depth in terms of returning kicks
August 24th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
Lorenzo Neal is playing for the Ravens fools.
August 24th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
No, no hard feelings,..but try and reclaim yourself,..this blog has ruined your life. Night.
August 24th, 2008 at 10:07 pm
Marcus Monk, Grice-Mullen, Joe Horn, all good options.
August 24th, 2008 at 10:10 pm
How crazy would this be…NOT ALL THE TIME, BUT ONCE IN A WHILE….
………How about BUSH at fullback, he’s big enough, strong enough, smart enough and he can: run, catch and pass. Then on a few plays, we would have McFadden and Bush in at the same time……….Why not?
August 24th, 2008 at 10:10 pm
what’s zach crockett up to?? anyone know??
August 24th, 2008 at 10:13 pm
crockett cut by cowboys last season, do you’re research it’s not that hard. I just wiki every question you have and I have an answer in less than a minute.
August 24th, 2008 at 10:16 pm
Will you ask Kiffin one question: why is Paul McQuistan, who played rather well at RT last year, not being given a chance to compete for the job again this year? He outplayed Cornell Green last year.
August 24th, 2008 at 10:18 pm
i think i knew he WAS with the cowboys. not with anyone now?? hell, he’d be worth it. bush and crockett would be a load in short yardage. he’s probably not the reciever kiff wants at FB, but pickins are kinda slim with two weeks to go.
August 24th, 2008 at 10:21 pm
Granted that it was the first game at the new Lucas Oil Stadium, but I watched the Bills/Colts game and they had about 63,000 at that game even though they knew Peyton Manning would NOT be playing and that they would be watching Quinn Grey and Jared Lorenzen instead.
Raider fans, one the other hand, knew that Jamarcus Russell was going to play at least the first half along with most of the regulars in this most important third exhibition game. Kiffin also told everybody that JR would get the opportunity to “air it out”.
I realize the games don’t count in the standings but aren’t they supposed to be at least interesting enough to attend? I guess after about three games, Raider fans have already lost interest in watching Jamarcus Russell throw passes.
I watched a lot of the other NFL pre-season games on the NFL network and most had better attendance than the Raiders.
If the Raiders play poorly in the next exhibition game, there’s a good chance the Monday Night opener against the Broncos will not be televised due to lack of a sell-out. That seemed to happen a few times last year as well.
Man up Raider Nation!
August 24th, 2008 at 10:33 pm
Riverside Fan,
I think the problem with playing Bush at Fullback would be his lack of blocking skills. It usually takes rookies a while to learn to pick up blitzing LB’s and he probably didn’t do much blocking in college. Kiffin probably isn’t to keen on him being lead blocker on running plays either.
August 24th, 2008 at 10:37 pm
post 146, Bite The Bag! U a season ticket holder,dont lie,spaz
August 24th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
Here’s the report from the Indianapolis Colts latest preseason game…
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)—The grand opening of Lucas Oil Stadium turned into a big dud for the Indianapolis Colts Sunday night.
At least, they’ll have another chance to christen their new stadium properly in two weeks when the games really count.
Xavier Omon scored on a short touchdown run, Terrence McGee returned a Colts fumble 68 yards for a touchdown and the Buffalo Bills forced five turnovers in a 20-7 victory over the Colts.
“It was a rather disappointing evening for us,” coach Tony Dungy said. “We wanted to play much better to open up the stadium, but it didn’t happen. They outplayed us tonight.”
It certainly didn’t go according to the script.
So according to the logic of some of you, this means Indy is gonna suck this year right?
Pathetic.
‘The Raiders Return To Greatness Is Inevitable’
August 24th, 2008 at 11:26 pm
Bobby Davis,
I ask myself that question everyday, and I post at least one message on this blog at least once a weak asking “Where is Paul Mcquistain?”
Damn Cornell Green was lining up as the tail back in formation so that he could get position on the edge over the pass rusher. That dude is not going to cut it. Kwame is better than Barry Sims, so I will pray he can hold up.
I know kiff doesn’t want another body to add to the walking wounded list, but I don’t see th downside to making a move on Luke Petigout right now. The dude has had injury issues, and he is going to serve a 4 game suspension, but he could be a nice RT if needed after Cornell Green gets hurt or embarrassed. bring him as an insurance policy.
Jamarcus is ready to go now. He has shown incredible improvement from last seasons Jacksonville game where he was launching ducks over the middle of the field, like his name was Matt Lienert, to now. This O line is holding him back.
The guy has a very quick clock in the pocket because his instincts are telling him to get the hell out of there before he ends up like Andrew Walter, Dave Carr, or Alex Smith.
Trade for Devery (4th or 5th rd pick) and sign Luke Petigout for the run to the playoffs. We have no chance those last 4 games ( save maybe the Texans who have slapped us the past two years in our house) to win any games.
If the Raiders do not make these two moves ( or similar caliber to the WR and Tackle positions respectively) we can kiss any push to the playoffs goodbye.
August 24th, 2008 at 11:35 pm
Koren Robinson even sounds a little intriguing; however, the dude has substance abuse problems with drugs and alcohol. People like this always mess up, and 95% of the time never walk straight; however, the dude is capable of being a no. 3, return kicks, and make big plays. Maybe he won’t screw up til next off season.
August 24th, 2008 at 11:47 pm
Guy’s when Kiffin said we see who are, we can’t just stand back and throw. Hewas talking specifically about the tackles Green and Harris.
How that suprises anyone is beyond me. Harris has a long way to go to get where he needs to be and Green isn’t an all-pro RT. We all knew that.
It will take time for these things to develope. And Kiffin was doind this for the fans and the media to shut up, Big Al knows these things better than Kiffin.
To assume that they are in diagreement about this is silly. Al’s not stupid These guy’s aren’t Art Shell and Lincoln Kennedy. Also the teams still needs to get talent along bothe lines. No surprise that’s why losing O’neil was so devastating.
Also my only gripe with the passing game is we NEVER throw down the field…………NEVER. that’s a problem because guy’s are open but it’s bee drilled into Russell’s head to dump it off. Russell is simply doing as he’s been coached.
At soem point Kiffn needs to understand that YOU MUST challenge the defense sometimes.It’s OK to to play safe but you can’t play scared…………period
August 24th, 2008 at 11:52 pm
Dick V if Cable wants these guy’s they’ll get them, so we’ll see what happens. But it’s his call. My guess is they’re not much better than what we have just better in our minds because we’re unhappy with what we have.
August 24th, 2008 at 11:59 pm
BHP, I hear what you are saying. Guys are out work right now for several reasons, and most are real issues. Pettigout can play. He was a 1st rd pick, he has played in the zone blocking scheme, and Tampa thought enough of him to give him a solid contract last year. You should have heard the dribble coming from the Giants fans last year when Pettigout was allowed to walk and David Dheil the LG was switched to lT. everyone was irate in New York, and I did not hear anybody saying it could work save the Giants coaching staff.
I know Cable, Kiffin, and Even Al Davis have enough information on this guy to make a move. If they don’t I am sure that the bad just simply outweighed the good.
Green definitely fits into the We just don’t have anybody else category, but we will see.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:06 am
This kid Ricky Brown plays a lot faster than the other two guy’s. He has real potential to be a good one. G Wilson is the heart and soul of the defense. He takes the defense up several notches. Tommy Kelly looks like he’s is worth the money.
Kiffin if you don’t give me anything else give me MBush in the red zone. Don’t screw around with DMC give me a takle breaking HB at least Fargas.
DMC between the 20’s is OK in the RED ZONE Bush and Fargas……………….period
August 25th, 2008 at 12:07 am
BHP,
I know plays are there to be made down field, but Jamarcus has the right idea to get out of the pocket. Until those tackles and O line in general can improve, we have to be patient and take what is there in the first 2.5 to 3 seconds. i saw Jamarcus avoid a few hits and sacks yesterday by getting that ball out.
an eight yard sack kills a drive unless someone make a big play.
I like what I see out of Russell. The dude has some whoodini in him, and we know he has the cannon. Lane has the training wheels on, but I beleive that is the right course of action until the line gets better.
Jamarcus is not super man, he is getting out of that pocket and avoiding sacks because he knows he does not have all day. The man has some poise back there.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:09 am
HayesDaze…
I’ve been cloned all day. My last post was around 1pm when I told you I’d get back to you.
Before we can drop our debate, I have to ask you for examples as to how Al’s “experience” helps Lane Kiffin build teams, or how Lane can learn from it. I asked you to name one specific thing Lane Kiffin could learn from Al Davis. Experience isn’t specific enough.
Come to think of it, Obama should be asking McCain the same question.
“Experienced at what? Kissing Bush’s ass?”
August 25th, 2008 at 12:11 am
Lastly pleas don’t expect Harris’ pass blocking to be great in two months because it could take a year or two in this system to become what Cable thinks he can be. He is an outstanding run blocker and an adeguate pass blocker until then. So we must stay balanced on offense for him to be successful.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:13 am
Ricky has some nice speed. I have to watch him some more, but he seems like he is ready. The dude has definitely been hitting the weights.
I see what Al was saying with D Hall and his tackling. The Raiders db’s play a big role in the run game, and they are asked to seal of the side line. That is what Lane was talking about when he said enough starters were out not to be overly concerned with that 3rd quarter.
wilson is a good player.
Huff made a nice play in center field yesterday. I can see the defense coming together.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:14 am
Kush, just so you know, it wasn’t me you were fighting with today. My last post was around 1pm. As you already know, most of my real posts are about management. I take a lot of flack for it and the only personal insults you see me throwing out are in response to those insulting me. I never go after people who are just talking football. In fact, there’s only a few people I personally insult in here and you’re not one of them. You never will be, Kush. Hope you realize that.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:16 am
Dick V it takes the same amount of time to throw 25 yards down field as it does to throw 10 or 12. It’s a simple 5 step drop and release. It’s not the blocking, it’s not the talent, it’s the coach.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:19 am
You know I’m watchin the game again and this kid Trevor Scott has stepped up considerably he was a factor in this game.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:19 am
You are right about Kwame Harris. I was not concerned with him so much. Green did bother me however.
The Raiders will be competitive, and Green and Harris can both run block well.
My biggest concern is for when we play solid football teams that will bring the pressure. Green will not hold up too long against good players.
I expect good things from the team, but we all saw yesterday a glimpse of how this team will look when playing from behind. I am not even sure how good Arizona is at pass rushing, or even how complex the Arizona schemes were last night. Most teams don’t empty out the playbook like Mike nolan did against Aaron Rodgers last weak because they dod not want to put that on film in the preseason.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:25 am
Jason Jones of the SacBee is acting like we lost a regular season game yesterday. I know the press likes to do this. Reporting on the preseason as if it’s real just sells the game in and of itself. What cracks me up is that Lane Kiffin announced he was going to throw the ball even when he didn’t need to. That’s a subtle way of saying the he wasn’t trying to win. Therefore, anyone who watched this game really hoping for a victory either thought Kiffin was joking, or they have a tough time reading peoples’ hints.
A.I. (As Jim Lofton, today…), make your case for James Lofton other than this tired word, “experienced”. First off, what is Lofton experienced at, aside from jogging around and running routes with receivers? Where has he called plays? Where has he built an offense? Describe Lofton’s system. Give me some nuances. What’s the first thing we’ll notice with Lofton’s offense? Run heavy, or pass heavy? Oh, if you don’t know, don’t be ashamed. BECAUSE HE’S NEVER BEEN INVOLVED WITH BUILDING AN OFFENSE, ANYWHERE. He’s only been a skills coach. I think we both know what offense he’ll be running. Can anyone say, Bed and Breakfast?
August 25th, 2008 at 12:27 am
BHP,
It may take the same amount of time for Jamarcus to flick the pass down field as it does to check down; however, there is big difference in the lead time to allow that play develop.
You are watching the game right now, How many sacks did JR avoid by having such a quick clock on and getting out of the pocket. You can not separate the two and say on this play if Jamarcus would have just waited a split second, he would have found Javon streaking down field because on the other plays he did not weight and avoided the pass rusher chasing him down on his blind side he could have just as easily been hit and the ball could have come out.
The Raiders coaching staff: Lane Kiffin, Greg Knapp, Paul Hackett, and who ever the qb coach is, are doing the right thing and teaching this kid how to play at this level. The down field stuff will come later: probably when we get some consistent protection, and receivers get consistent separation.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:30 am
Dick V AZ was loading up against us all night. They sent backers from all angles and we struggled. Don’t be overly concerned we didn’t game plan them. My guess is we could’ve won this game if a regular season game.
We plaed base mostly on offense and defense although we sent a few backers. But nothing exotic. This was in NO WAY an accurate gage of what we can do. Not even close.
Like I said my only concern is he is drilling it into Russell’s head that when things break down to look short. That’s stupid because most big plays happen when thngs break down and he scrambles. He needs to look down field more.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:31 am
MR I know you take a lot of flack from a lot of people, and anyone who reads my posts knows that I’m all about unity among the Nation. We all have different opinions and that’s ok. I just don’t stand for the negativity, political, social, and racial bickering, and groundless name calling.
I won’t ever start no stuff, but I damn sure will finish it.
I took offense to people that were coming on here with this ‘WOE IS THE RAIDERS’ mentality, talking about how terrible we’re gonna be this year and how they agree with Charger fans and all kinda crap.
So rightfully so, as a proud member of the Raider Nation, I stood up for The Raiders, my Nation brethren, and all of the hard work that the players, coaches, and management have done this off season.
Yeah we stunk in several aspects on Friday. But we were good in several aspects too. We weren’t any different from the majority of football teams during the pre season.
Like Allen Iverson said in his infamous rant…”It’s practice…Not a game…but practice.”
So in conclusion MR, I don’t always agree with you, but that’s ok. As long as you are a Raider fan, you’re my Nation brethren. And for the fact that you made it a point to communicate with me, and clarify your role in the bickering that was going on earlier, you gained a lot of respect from me for that too. Have a good night.
I’ll rap with everyone again in the morning.
‘The Raiders Return To Greatness Is Inevitable.’
August 25th, 2008 at 12:33 am
Mr,
Lofton is an unproven commidity. I like what lane is doing right now.
Yesterday was a barometer of the passing game, and how this team will look while playing from behind. It is nothing to cry about, and I actually came away from it with an even bigger man crush on Jamarcus.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:35 am
I’m only saying this because I’ve watched this kids entire career. He is the ultimate big play QB especially when things break down. The WR’s need to learn to run deep when he’s out of the pocket beacuse he can get it there. But the coach WONT let him.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:36 am
If the game were for real, BHP, Kiffin would have called more draw plays and screens to throw off their blitzes. He made it clear he was going to air it out. Kiffin wanted to see how JaMarcus could do as a gunslinger. He announced to the opponent we were going to be throwing, and that’s what we did. There was no gameplan this week to win. It was to see what the kid’s got. What we learned: While JRuss2Miller is certainly for real, we’ve got lots of work to do with our passing game. It’s not there, yet. It’s what we assumed all along. But it couldn’t hurt to open it up and give it a try. It’s preseason. The game doesn’t count.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:37 am
Kush, understood. Just know that my last post here, until about a half hour ago, was at around 1pm today. Everything signed “MR” between 1pm and midnight tonight was not me.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:43 am
MR, I know, I said that in post #163
August 25th, 2008 at 12:44 am
I believe you MR. Truthfully until we get some sort of registration or organization around here, this sort of identity theft will continue.
That’s why it’s so stupid for us to be arguing amongst each other. For all we know it could be Charger, or Niner fans impersonating regular bloggers on here just to stir up contention and bickering among the Nation. Even though we may all have different opinions, we must be able to disagree but still stand united!
‘The Raiders Return To Greatness Is Inevitable.’
August 25th, 2008 at 12:46 am
BHP,
Looking down field will come in time. Qb’s just don’t learn the game in a year. He will get it. He will make his plays down field, but right now he is working on the basics: getting the ball out getting to the next play. He will develop the other finer nuances of the game with more experience. The dude looks like the next Elway. He is light years ahead of VY, and we all know about Leinert.
We just have to be patient and let things develop.
I know it is not the same thing, but there are some lessons to be learned from the last couple of years. I remeber pulling my hair out watching Kerry collins check down time after time instead of taking his shots down field. I was convinced that dude was garbage, then I saw the 06 season, and I thought you know I would take what I saw from Kerry Collins any day over that.
Jamarcus has to learn to get the ball out and make the reads. He is still trying to learn how to go through the first two reads right now. The third read is a whole new world for that kid, and if he can’t account for the front line defenders, he needs to get out of the pocket fast after the first two reads. That is what he is doing right now.
With our running game, and some solid performances, he will build confidence and trust with this unit, and the other stuff will come. Play action passes will be there. The third and 4th reads along with scrambles and the Recievers turning and running up field when the play breaks will all come as well, but for now we going to see a lot of check downs, dump offs, and quick hitters.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:47 am
Sorry, BHP. LOL. I’m tired and I’m only reading like the first two sentences of people’s posts. I saw you say something about them blitzing heavy and I jumped to conclusions. My bad.
Kush, I’ve said all along I’ve got no problem with registration in here. I’ve been banned from here a couple of times but only for sinking down to the level of people attacking me. With the registration, at least I’ll know where it’s coming from. So will you. LOL. It would definitely prevent fiascos like today. Sad to say, though, they’ll never do it. It’s all about web hits. $$$$
August 25th, 2008 at 12:54 am
It is not a secret to teach your receivers to turn up field when the play breaks down, as well, as the the deep receivers to come back for the ball when the play breaks down and the qb gets out of the pocket. Lane Kiffin and all those coaches know that. even Bread and breakfast tom knows that. These people are all professionals getting paid big money to teach these players how to play the game. I think you are way too quick to assume that Lane is the problem. I see growth and development right now from JR. when I stop seeing growth and development, then I will jump on the soap box and start bad mouthing the coaching staff.
August 25th, 2008 at 12:56 am
WEll it is what it is I will disagree but that’s my opinion. WE will need points and check downs wont produce them.
What I’m saying is very basic and no big deal but it’s just decision making. I’ve watched this kid play and he makes great decisions under pressure. Not only will he get frustrated but so will the WR’s who are running wide open down field. It doesn’t make sense to force him to throw short, it’s stupid IMO. As long as takes care of the ball and doesn’t turn it over. Why stifle him.
Too many times fans think I’m talking about standing in the pocket for 15 sec. and taking sacks.
I’m talking about playing smart football forcing your opponent to play you honest.
But I’ve exhausted myself Adios for now.
August 25th, 2008 at 1:02 am
watched oo taken off field again- no lateral or horizontal stability- it looks like a complete blowout- it will take two years at best- probably never play again
August 25th, 2008 at 1:03 am
car