`New’ Raiders: Just bland, baby
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Thursday, October 9th, 2008 at 5:23 pm in Oakland Raiders.
We won’t know until Sunday if there’s any discernable difference between a Raiders team coached by Tom Cable as opposed to Lane Kiffin.
They seem to be promising a more aggressive approach with regard to the passing game, but it seems clear the post-Kiffin approach with regard to the media will be one of conservatism.
For instance, Cable glossed over any hard feelings with regard to Kiffin placing phone calls to JaMarcus Russell and essentially coaching him free of charge. Cable said he heard about it but wasn’t about to make an issue of it in public.
“I really didn’t think anything of it because if I worry about those things then it’s going to take away from what I’m trying to do right now with the team,” Cable said. “I have not put any thought into it and probably won’t.”
Cable rejected the notion Kiffin was undermining his position as head coach.
“I don’t think . . . I would never expect Lane to do something like that,” I just took it in stride and really didn’t put anything into it.”
Now it’s possible, even probable, that Cable doesn’t feel that way at all, and is wondering why Kiffin doesn’t leave the coaching to those currently on staff. But if anything was learned from the 20-game Kiffin era, it’s that talking too much to the media _ either in the form of being brutally frank or in pushing an agenda _ is not a good thing in the eyes of the boss.
Case in point No. 2 _ the approach in dealing with Saints return specialist Reggie Bush.
Last Nov. 11, with the Chicago Bears coming to town, Kiffin boldly proclaimed the Raiders would kick the ball to Devin Hester, who was as hot or hotter at returning kicks as Bush is now.
The Raiders went out and bottled up Hester _ six punt returns for 14 yards, two kickoff returns for 34 yards. They lost anyway, 17-6, when Rex Grossman hit Bernard Berrian for a 59-yard touchdown and the Bears converted a Josh McCown fumble into a touchdown plunge by Cedric Benson.
(This was another example of how low the bar was for the 2007 Raiders _ one of their great triumphs was a game in which they lost by 11 to a mediocre opponent at home but shut down a return specialist).
Cable was non-committal when asked about covering Bush Wednesday,and special teams coach Brian Schneider managed a sheepish laugh when asked if he was laying down the gauntlet for Bush the way theyd did for Hester.
“No grand proclamation out of me, that’s for sure,” Schneider said. “You ain’t getting nothing out of me, that’s for sure.”
Later Schneider said, “Let’s put it this way _ we’re going to try to not give him the ball and we’re preparing so that if he gets the ball, we have to be ready to tackle him. So, hopefully, he has no punt returns.”
Another subtle difference has to do with injuries. There was no sign of Derrick Burgess for the second consecutive day with a triceps strain, but rather than give the sort of medical details Kiffin often did, even when it might have been to his advantage to be vague, Cable shrugged his shoulders.
He said he wasn’t even sure what the injury was, that it was being treated in-house, and that Burgess would probably need to practice Friday to play.
A few more Thursday news and notes:
– No changes with regard to Raiders injuries. Cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha (elbow), running back Justin Fargas (groin) and guard Cooper Carlisle (ankle) all practiced and are considered good to go in New Orleans.
Running back Darren McFadden (toe), linebacker Isaiah Ekejiuba (shoulder) and tight end Ben Troupe (foot) all did more work than Wednesday, but were classified as limited. McFadden and Ekejiuba should play.
– Safety Gibril Wilson missed practice with the flu, but Cable doesn’t expect it to be an issue by Sunday.
– Talking with the New Orleans media, Saints coach Sean Payton recalled his interview with Al Davis in 2004, the year he pulled a Steve Sarkisian and reversed field to stay with Dallas, with the Raiders eventually hiring Norv Turner.
“I had gone through the process right after the ‘03 season, and we had a pretty good season that year in Dallas, and after that first interview I felt like it was going to be something that could happen and I was certainly interested in it,” Payton said. “I went through the second interview with Mr. Davis and came back home to Dallas and talked with my wife and some other people that were pretty important to me in that decision.
“Up until the very end, it was something that I saw happening. It was a gut decision to stay and to try to finish the work we had begun in Dallas. We had just gotten there - we had only been there less than a year - and I ended up staying.”
Payton had also interviewed with Davis in 1998 as Jon Gruden’s selection to be the Raiders quarterbacks coach. Payton had worked with Gruden on the staff of the Philadelphia Eagles. Davis vetoed the pick, choosing veteran Gary Stevens instead.
– The talk after Payton’s reversal for the head coaching job was he was talked out of it by Bill Parcells. The story I heard was that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones invited Payton to “the basement,” the area of his home where he wrote the big checks.
“Once you get to the basement, Jerry’s not letting you out,” said an NFL assistant who knew the situation.”
– If Burgess can’t play, Cable said the probable plan would be for Jay Richardson to play at left end, Kalimba Edwards at right end, and have Trevor Scott and Fred Wakefield available in reserve.
– Payton and Cable worked together as graduate assistants on the staff of San Diego State in 1989.
– Davis watched practice Thursday and talked to selected players coming off the field from his cart, offering some criticism for strongside linebacker Ricky Brown, giving encouragement to place kicker Sebastian Janikowski and meeting for a minute or two with tackle Mario Henderson. He also talked with defensvie coordinator Rob Ryan.
– The Raiders are even taking heat from their neighbors. In the Allied Health Professionals of Alameda building next door, in the second floor window is a sign which says “`19-61 _ 1 owner, six coaches.” It was the same window which had a sign that read, “Just Stupid, Baby” the day Kiffin was fired.
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October 9th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
I just want to see enthusiasm and blitzes!
October 9th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?game_id=29607&season=2008&displayPage=tab_gamecenter
October 9th, 2008 at 5:36 pm
Sorry mods wont happen again (he he)
October 9th, 2008 at 5:37 pm
It is nice just to hear football talk. The saints are 7.5 favorites. Who is taking the points.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
thanks jerry!!
October 9th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Interesting story about Payton. Here’s hoping the training wheels will be removed from Russell.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Ha they took away your first 408. DAAAAAAAAAAAANG! Got burnt!
October 9th, 2008 at 5:40 pm
I’m not betting on the Raiders anymore until they show me they can win. But I did bench Breese and started J-Mac.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:40 pm
Just Win Baby.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Sup Yalls..
Wanted to reiterate to those who missed my post yesterday that Walker will be the primary target all day against NO. He will start at split end all game He’s finally 100% and Knapp has designed this weeks gameplan around getting him the ball.
Miller supposedly will stay back a lot and block, but dont sleep on Madsen over the middle…thats all I got.
Goodell on Sirius Radio Today:
Roger Goodell said that the information provided by ESPN about the letter was wrong, there were no threats of action against the Raiders just that he was asking for evidence if there was any.
Stay Strong NATION..
Sup Yalls..
Wanted to reiterate to those who missed my post yesterday that Walker will be the primary target all day against NO. He will start at split end all game He’s finally 100% and Knapp has designed this weeks gameplan around getting him the ball.
Miller supposedly will stay back a lot and block, but dont sleep on Madsen over the middle…thats all I got.
Goodell on Sirius Radio Today:
Roger Goodell said that the information provided by ESPN about the letter was wrong, there were no threats of action against the Raiders just that he was asking for evidence if there was any.
Stay Strong NATION..
October 9th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
what player do you think yalls trippen is?
October 9th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
dam the double paste. this laptop keyboard blows.
peace.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
15th!!!!
October 9th, 2008 at 5:56 pm
besides I only care about hittin on 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408
they can shove that 1st thing up their u know where!!
October 9th, 2008 at 5:59 pm
good to hear
October 9th, 2008 at 6:02 pm
I know he has to be a player… probably deangelo
October 9th, 2008 at 6:02 pm
good post yalls trippin
I love the new bland raiders already. perhaps a sign of maturity from the HC.
October 9th, 2008 at 6:10 pm
Hopefully Cable wins more but I definitely preferred Kiffin’s approach to the media. Way more Raider.
October 9th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
Believe it or not, there are some things to like in Oakland
By Keith Kidd
Working for Al Davis is one of the most difficult jobs in the NFL, or in any profession, for that matter. The coach of the Oakland Raiders must have a focused master plan, thick skin and a fair amount of luck to succeed.
But whether or not Lane Kiffin fell short in one or more of those areas, he departed an Oakland club whose cupboard is anything but bare. In fact, judging from game-film analysis and the word around league circles, the Raiders had more problems with game management, play calling and attitude than just about anything else.
Interim coach Tom Cable will have an opportunity, at least through the end of this season, to turn those problems around. And it isn’t the impossible task some would have you believe. Here are five positives the Raiders’ next coach will have to build on:
1. A trio of explosive running backs
No team in the league (save for maybe the Giants) is as deep and talented in the backfield as the Raiders. RBs Justin Fargas, Michael Bush and rookie Darren McFadden all have lead-back ability, but in Oakland they are complementary players whose abilities make this unit even better than the sum of its parts. Fargas and McFadden share strong similarities — both can gash a defense inside and get to the soft edge outside. Fargas is more experienced and, not surprisingly, the superior blocker. McFadden is a big-play weapon who provides insurance against an injury to the somewhat fragile Fargas. McFadden’s versatility and experience playing the quarterback role in Arkansas’ single-wing “Wild Hog” scheme (on which Miami’s “Wildcat” package is based) is a wrinkle that gives Oakland’s running game even more potential.
The 245-pound Bush is a powerful inside presence whose style is an excellent changeup from those of Fargas and McFadden. This is a unit that has the depth to stay fresh and wear out a defense, especially in Cable’s zone blocking scheme. The offensive line isn’t special, but it specializes in run blocking and meshes well with the backs.
2. A potentially dangerous vertical passing game
QB JaMarcus Russell has all the tools to lead a potent passing game for years to come in Oakland.
With a massive frame, good mobility for his size and possibly the strongest passing arm in football, QB JaMarcus Russell has a skill set similar to that of Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger. And although the Raiders expected Russell’s development to be a long process, some of the blame for the passing game’s failings falls to Kiffin. His schemes lacked imagination and were too conservative, especially for an offense whose run game should have made the play-action pass a natural weapon. WRs Javon Walker, Ashley Lelie and Chaz Schilens (an intriguing seventh-round pick) have excellent size-speed ratios and can pressure defenses on the back end. That would create space underneath for WR Ronald Curry, an athletic possession receiver, and WR Johnnie Lee Higgins, who has the explosiveness to turn a slant route into a big gainer. Without fear of the occasional deep ball, opposing defenses have been able to overplay the run with eight in the box, pressure Russell and tighten up coverage on his receivers.
Although Russell likely stunted his own growth by leaving college early and missing training camp as a rookie holdout, he is capable of more right now. He has hit his spots when given time, and his frequent use of TE Zach Miller suggests he is reading the field. He has had enough time to get in synch with the offense, gain an understanding of coverage concepts and learn his hot reads. The protection is leaky, but Russell moves well — an advantage that needs to be exploited. Offensive coordinator Greg Knapp incorporated the spread option into his West Coast offense to maximize Michael Vick’s abilities during his time in Atlanta. With Kiffin gone, Knapp has the freedom to create designs that get Russell away from pressure and challenge defenses downfield more often. Kiffin didn’t seem to trust Russell, but the Raiders can’t afford to coddle their quarterback any longer.
3. A gifted defensive coordinator in Rob Ryan
If Oakland’s offense simply had held it together in the fourth quarter against Buffalo and San Diego, the Raiders would be 3-1 and poised to challenge Denver atop the NFC West right now. Instead, two turnovers and a three-and-out late in those games put the defense in tough spots, and the record is reversed. Kiffin seemed to imply at times that Ryan’s bunch shared equal blame for Oakland’s shortcomings, but the truth is the defense, with only slightly more offensive support, could carry this team. Ryan has used more pressure schemes, to good effect, since his unit was picked apart by the Broncos in Week 1. Playing a safety in the hole and making use of his cornerbacks’ man-to-man coverage skills, Ryan has gotten a lot of mileage out of five- and six-man pressures. Moreover, he’s a hard-working coach whom players respect and rally around. He works with what he’s got and puts his players in position to win.
4. An excellent young linebacker corps
Thomas Howard, Kirk Morrison and Ricky Brown are an athletic group that is responsible for a lot of the plays Oakland’s defense has made. They are active hit-and-run players who attack downhill gaps and disrupt blocking schemes. Although a bit undersized, they continue to improve against the run and can thrive as long as the defensive line is controlling gaps and keeping blockers off the second level. In particular, Howard and Morrison have played at a Pro Bowl level in stretches and are two of the league’s brightest young players. They are three-down defenders (a tremendous asset) who match up well against backs and tight ends in coverage and have a knack for timing up pressure schemes. Their instincts and ability to read routes and get into passing lanes allow Ryan to man up on the perimeter.
5. Outstanding cover corners
CB Nnamdi Asomugha continues to be overlooked by the casual fan, but he might be the NFL’s best cornerback. His ability to match up with No. 1 receivers allows Ryan all kinds of flexibility. Ryan can build a game plan that targets an opponent’s offensive strength. He can provide safety help to CB DeAngelo Hall (who isn’t as steady but can safely match up in single coverage at times). He can set up combination coverages, move a safety into the box in run support, position a linebacker in a throwing zone … the possibilities are endless.
The Raiders still have issues. Davis isn’t about to give up control of day-to-day operations, but he needs more guidance in the decision-making process. The scouting department lacks manpower. A culture of accountability needs to be established and reinforced. Cable and Ryan already are helping in that last regard, but it’s always tenuous in Oakland. Even with a favorable schedule down the stretch and a passionate fan base, this team faces an uphill climb over the remainder of 2008.
In any case, Oakland’s new coach will inherit a roster that might not be exceptionally deep but is by no means in shambles. The silver lining in the black cloud hovering over this franchise is brighter than most realize. The Raiders, hard as it might be to believe, are close to contention.
October 9th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
Repost: Clearing the air, an internet report authored by former Raiders senior personnel executive Mike Lombardi on Tuesday said the NFL sent Davis a letter informing him that the team is in violation of league rules for accusing the New England Patriots of tampering over their pursuit of wide receiver
“No such letter was sent,” said Greg Aiello, the NFL senior vice president of public relations.
October 9th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
JRock or Brees?
Who should I start in FFL?
Brees still threw 330 last week, but that Saints D made our boy Ferrote look like a champ.
JRock or Brees?
October 9th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
Hey, for weeks now, I can hardly get access to the blog from the Tribune web site, but no problem from the Contra Costa site. I access from four computers and it’s the same slow/dead response on all 4 computers. What have we got here? A shortage of ports. Cutbacks? I’m giving up on the Tribune site.
Anbody else having trouble? Or is it that Contra Costa is closer to Florida?
October 9th, 2008 at 6:40 pm
Jerry we know you would like to write the same things kiffin gave you. Problem is these guys running the show now know how to keep their mouths shut. Live with it
October 9th, 2008 at 6:41 pm
PA
That is some good kool-aid!
October 9th, 2008 at 6:44 pm
we need more flicks
October 9th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Bishop
U have the same situation but I started J-Mac I think he will have a good day againts that defense. No QB has had a good day againts us except Cutler
October 9th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
Sounds about right I’ll give the kid a shot!
October 9th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
Not much of a comment from this Raider fan cept Cable better do in what he preaches and hope the team will play their asses off him. Al will be watching with an axe in his hand. He loves the power that he has and just loves to fire his coaches with the greatest of ease.
October 9th, 2008 at 6:48 pm
408
mess with the bull u get the horns lol
October 9th, 2008 at 6:49 pm
Finally I got to read the piece to end.. JerryMac.. good, long post, no need to wait this long everyday. Lucky for me I was able to catch it today..
October 9th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
No Comment.
October 9th, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Huff
Yes u do say it… SAY IT!
October 9th, 2008 at 6:55 pm
…………………………….
October 9th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
dirty
October 9th, 2008 at 7:06 pm
have you guys ever noticed that doug from ‘Scrubs’ and Drew Brees look alike?? Brees of course are a bit more buff..
save-scrubs.com/images/pics/Doug_Murphy.jpg
cakerockstheparty.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/brees_ribeiro.jpg
October 9th, 2008 at 7:13 pm
God Bless the Allied Professionals next door and their sign. I live on the island and had similar thoughts myself. The last time the Raiders won a super bowl I don’t think I had pubic hair.
October 9th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
LOL..
I got PFT to change a post, because it was poor english it said “Westbrook wouldn’t play DESPITE broken ribs”
Not bad, I gotta admit, that made me a bit proud, especially its nearly 5 in the morning =)
October 9th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
LMN
good for you!
GO SHARKS!!!!
October 9th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
SHARKS=Only games I can leave happy from…
GO RAIDERS
October 9th, 2008 at 8:05 pm
I’m so darn nervous. This is my first gig as a HC in the big leagues. To be honest my only other HC job was at Idaho. Hey we were the Vandals and no we’re the Raiders. Too bad names don’t make a team. In spite of the cool names we’re all still a bunch of losers. I want my mama! Help me out guys! How many time-outs do we get in a game? Should I call heads or tails? How many yards do we need for a 1st down. Wah! I just wet myself.
October 9th, 2008 at 8:12 pm
I am all about Al Davis and his coaches opening up to the media where appropriate but Kiffin just did not know where to draw the line. You never reveal anything concerning game plan and injury, preseason or not. Now he is still coaching JR, I think baby Kiffin has real issues. In the glory years of the Raiders, both head coaches John Madden and Tom Flores reached the pinnacle under the guise of Al Davis and to this day I have never heard a negative statement from them about Al.
October 9th, 2008 at 8:18 pm
Believe you me. I’m not going to say anything to the media that might be construed as negative to Mr. Davis. The crusty old geezer would have my head if I did.
October 9th, 2008 at 8:28 pm
Cable is going to win. Take that to the White house.
October 9th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
So our good buddy Mort, the “professional liar” got shown up by the Commish himself. LOL!
October 9th, 2008 at 8:30 pm
Is this not what Tom Cable should be doing???
1) You should NEVER tell the press (the team you face) what the status of your injury report is. Kiffin did not understand this.
2) You should smooth over things in the media and be “boring” Kiffin gave reporters like jerry what they all wanted! Drama.
3) Tom Cable will never kick a 76 yard field goal.
4) Tom Cable will call timeouts with 40 seconds left in a game that we could win, aka known as clock management.
Kiff this is not college football the clock does not stop with every first down!
October 9th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
Tom Cable will win!!!!!!!
and tell someone that OBAMA WAS RIDING DIRTY WITH BILL!!!!!!
October 9th, 2008 at 8:39 pm
Sharks is that hockey?
October 9th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
yup thats hockey1
October 9th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
President Obama Says:
October 9th, 2008 at 8:28 pm
Cable is going to win. Take that to the White house.
I’ll try not to let you down Mr. President. Say if it doesn’t work out and Mr. Davis blows his butt plug would you hire me as Secretary of Offense and my good buddy Rex Ryan as Secretary of Defense?
October 9th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
The Raiders are even taking heat from their neighbors. In the Allied Health Professionals of Alameda building next door, in the second floor window is a sign which says “`19-61 _ 1 owner, six coaches.” It was the same window which had a sign that read, “Just Stupid, Baby” the day Kiffin was fired.
WTF We found out were MR works….
October 9th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
he Raiders are even taking heat from their neighbors. In the Allied Health Professionals of Alameda building next door, in the second floor window is a sign which says “`19-61 _ 1 owner, six coaches.” It was the same window which had a sign that read, “Just Stupid, Baby” the day Kiffin was fired.
WTF We found out where MR works….
October 9th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Gosh North Raider you stutter worse than I do. You must really be nervous. All I can tell you son is that we’re going to do our best and if we tank, we tank.
October 9th, 2008 at 8:53 pm
North Raider Says:
October 9th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
The Raiders are even taking heat from their neighbors. In the Allied Health Professionals of Alameda building next door, in the second floor window is a sign which says “`19-61 _ 1 owner, six coaches.” It was the same window which had a sign that read, “Just Stupid, Baby” the day Kiffin was fired.
WTF We found out were MR works….
______________________________________________
Uh, yeah sure, MR works here. He’s not seeing any doctors or taking any meds, or being kept confined in a rubber room by himself. He works here. Right. Everyone will believe that one.
October 9th, 2008 at 8:58 pm
^
is gay
October 9th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
Satan? What would I have to sacrifice to you for a win at NO?
October 9th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
President Rev Wright Says:
October 9th, 2008 at 9:00 pm
I AM SATAN!!!!
RIDING DITRY!
______________________________________
Any of you guys have any idea what the hell this guy is talking about?
October 9th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Are they playing Megadeth?..if not, Im not interested.
October 9th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
Can listen via stream/or pod at the abvoe site
www955klos(dot)com
jimladd link
It ROCKS
October 9th, 2008 at 9:41 pm
whos jim ladd?…sounds like something boring.
October 9th, 2008 at 9:44 pm
How do you know Im smart?..you dont know me,..some people think Im stupid,..and if its not metal I dont want to bother.
October 9th, 2008 at 9:51 pm
Bob..
You claim to know all, therefore I assume you are smart.
Lots of music out there.
playing some old Beatles, rite now that could be considered “old metal”
Bob, you can’t fool a fool.
October 9th, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Actually I was listening to alot of Beatles to day on the Eagle, 96.9, as its Lennons birthday today.
October 9th, 2008 at 10:00 pm
The Raiders are even taking heat from their neighbors. In the Allied Health Professionals of Alameda building next door, in the second floor window is a sign which says “`19-61 _ 1 owner, six coaches.” It was the same window which had a sign that read, “Just Stupid, Baby” the day Kiffin was fired.
HAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
October 9th, 2008 at 10:00 pm
Damn,..cant type so good tonight,..really loaded, clearly,…did too much I guess.\
October 9th, 2008 at 10:01 pm
Mad Road,
But Al Davis was a young genius back then. His central nervous system is old and hindered by amyloid plaque. He is a lot like all these great boxing champions that go past there prime and keep on fighting. They fight because they get addicted to the “herd poisoning” of the roar of approval of thousands of fans. The atmosphere, crowd, the lights, the interviews, the adulation. It is addictive. But eventually they all end up like Al Davis - a living legend. Unfortunately, their degenerating nervous system and consequent diminished reflexes makes it impossible for them to continue to compete. The boxing commissioners often have to force them to hang up the gloves. I believe Al Davis has long passed his prime. He is like most boxers (and supportive fans) who are the last to admit or except this reality. So we Raider fans are forced to suffer until Al is either locked down in a convalescent home, admits he is done or until he makes the ultimate sacrifice.
Raiders are going to lose Sunday. It is sad.
October 9th, 2008 at 10:34 pm
Holy crap. You just deleted 40 posts. Come on!
October 9th, 2008 at 10:34 pm
Hey guys, you gotta check out raiders.com behind the shield online - Jeanette Thompson interviews Marcel Reece (our practice squad project conversion WR to FB) and his first job was as a chuck-e-cheese character - if this dude makes it to the 53 man squad (and all indications are he has a lot of talent), we gotta come up with a good nickname for him - apararently he started out as a cook and they found out he could dance so they made him a character - hillarious -
I know, I know, stick to football but we had a bye last week and I think we’ve worn out the Kiffin issue. Can’t wait for Sunday and then I’ll get back to my usual long winded analysis.
October 9th, 2008 at 10:35 pm
Jedi,
I miss the good word.
October 9th, 2008 at 10:36 pm
Its been a long couple of weeks!
October 9th, 2008 at 10:38 pm
Lets hope that Burgess is ready to go. The depth along the line is already way too thin.
October 9th, 2008 at 11:02 pm
Hi Jerry.
You wrote:
“They seem to be promising a more aggressive approach with regard to the passing game,”
I write:
Oh, great! Every time we hear this, wins certainly follow… (sigh)
You write:
“Cable glossed over any hard feelings with regard to Kiffin placing phone calls to JaMarcus Russell and essentially coaching him free of charge. Cable said he heard about it but wasn’t about to make an issue of it in public.”
Me writes:
Well, that’s Cable’s opinion. Now let’s ask the head coach…
You write:
“Cable was non-committal when asked about covering Bush Wednesday,and special teams coach Brian Schneider managed a sheepish laugh when asked if he was laying down the gauntlet for Bush the way theyd did for Hester.”
I write:
That sheepish laugh translates to him not being the one who decides. Come on, Jerry. You’re acting like a fan, now.
Jerry writes:
“– The talk after Payton’s reversal for the head coaching job was he was talked out of it by Bill Parcells. The story I heard was that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones invited Payton to “the basement,” the area of his home where he wrote the big checks.
“Once you get to the basement, Jerry’s not letting you out,” said an NFL assistant who knew the situation.””
I write:
Great story, and probably true. Al Davis has a basement too, where he takes good coaches and strips them of their control.
Jerry writes:
“– The Raiders are even taking heat from their neighbors. In the Allied Health Professionals of Alameda building next door, in the second floor window is a sign which says “`19-61 _ 1 owner, six coaches.” It was the same window which had a sign that read, “Just Stupid, Baby” the day Kiffin was fired.”
I write:
Great company. Where can I buy stock?
October 9th, 2008 at 11:06 pm
who else thinks we’ll see Javon Walker on the field? Who believes he is not better than any of our current WR’s?
Who believes Kiffin coached to win?
October 9th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
Big Al will give Cable a chance to get the team under control through and through. Once davis sees this and show that they will respond to him.
Cable is a good man who wants to coach the Oakland Raiders, there are no hidden agendas. He is a Raider and this will become apparent in time and so will Cable’s allegiance.
If he wins, he will be made HC without reservation.
I just feel that he is not only what we need but what’s been missing in this organization.
Knapp and DeFilipo will handle Russell much better than what’s been done to this point. Russell will thrive under their leadership. And we will soon have an offense equal to the defense. A balanced team capable of competing against anyone.
Kiffinwas just too young and immature that continues to be evident with his latest exploits will concerning Russell. Good riddance!!
NO aints, are a formidable opponent but if we beat them it will galvanize the players behind this coaching staff. They will focus and play to their potential which is considerable. The record who knows, But Davis will open his checkbook to keep this staff which thanks to Kiffin is a great group. Thanks Kiffin now get outta here.
October 9th, 2008 at 11:41 pm
I like this team and now I know I like the coaching staff, but I digress. We must get pressure in Brees’s face so that he can’t step up in the pocket.
October 9th, 2008 at 11:48 pm
Though the Saints locked up the Vikings ground game they’re defense given up an average of 370+ yds per game.
C’mon Javon…this is the one…
Should be interesting to see what Payton does to counter Cable and Knapp. I think he’s familiar with them right? I don’t know if the time lines right and they faced each other when our guys were in Atlanta.
October 9th, 2008 at 11:50 pm
Jerry: They may have bottled up Hester last year, but Sproles seemed to have a few solid run backs.
Our ST are much better and can’t wait to see what Tyvon can do with out one arm tied behind his back.
Hope Ekejuiba is ready to play too.
October 10th, 2008 at 12:45 am
Man, I hope we crush the Saints and shut down their O.
October 10th, 2008 at 12:53 am
Why is that?
October 10th, 2008 at 1:11 am
Does MR work at Allied Health Professionals of Alameda?
October 10th, 2008 at 1:42 am
Yeh, Copenhagen, only people who work at Allied Health are fed up with Al Davis. You guys just get smarter by the day in here, don’t you?
October 10th, 2008 at 1:44 am
Of course Kiffin is undermining Cable by calling Russell several times. Who’s the coach here? Kiffin may think that he’s getting in a slap at Al by doing this but he’s interfering with someone else’s team.
It was never clear in Kiffin’s first year whether he tried to get the Arkansas job or not. Now we know that he did and that puts all of his decisions since-including play calling-in a different light. Apparently when he didn’t wear our team’s cap it meant something. Kiffin should butt out and go away.
It’s bad news if Burgess can’t play but it’s better not to make the injury worse. Fargas and McFadden will be back although not 100%. Let’s hope they can pace each other. This could be a battle of the Bush’s.
If the offense opens up more with the passing game it could be exactly what we need. Let’s see what Russell’s got. We can win this game.
GO RAIDERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 10th, 2008 at 1:47 am
Yes, I work at Allied Health.
I’m also Warren Sapp, Rich Gannon, Art Spander, Glen Dickey, Monte Kiffin, Keyshawn Johnson, Tom Jackson, Steve Young, Marcus Allen, and Ed McGah VII.
I’m the only Al Davis critic on the planet, taking on all of these life forms, you geniuses…
October 10th, 2008 at 1:50 am
I welcome Kiffin interfering with this team. I hope he never stops. Heck, I wish Gruden would call some of our players, too. I wish Shanahan would, and Ron Wolf. As it stands, we’re stuck with Al Davis and Tom Cable. Yikes. Kiffin, don’t be a stranger! Call the players every day. You’ve got this fan’s blessing.
October 10th, 2008 at 1:57 am
You trolling hick. Didn’t you get banned on Easter for trolling? lol
October 10th, 2008 at 1:59 am
AMEN!
October 10th, 2008 at 2:04 am
PA RAIDER!!
Thanks for Post#119. Those are my feelings exactly. Especially about Kiffin being too conservative and not trusting Russell but the rest of it too.
October 10th, 2008 at 2:05 am
PA RAIDER!!!
I mean thanks for Post #19!
October 10th, 2008 at 2:18 am
Yeh, I got banned on Easter…
October 10th, 2008 at 3:27 am
1st!
October 10th, 2008 at 4:36 am
Hmm.. I guess it was only me who could see it..
re: post 35
October 10th, 2008 at 5:01 am
Maloso Madden> I’m pretty anti- Al myself….why are you so sensitive? In any case they stole your catch phrases and copied your line of argumentation.
October 10th, 2008 at 5:17 am
Aaaaaaaargh, we’re going to beat those cheating Patriots on Sunday.
Repeat after me maties!
Aaaaaaaargh, we’re going to beat those cheating Patriots on Sunday.
October 10th, 2008 at 6:04 am
yeah yeah.. with what receivers? with what RB, the only asset you guys got going is Darren Sproles..
October 10th, 2008 at 6:07 am
Darren Sproles doesn’t play for me. I have Fargas, Dmac and Bush.
Repeat after me maties!
Aaaaaaaargh, we’re going to beat those cheating Patriots on Sunday.
October 10th, 2008 at 6:19 am
then I don’t get you at all..
October 10th, 2008 at 6:20 am
if you are a raider fan, you DO know its the saints we’re playing, rite??
October 10th, 2008 at 6:26 am
Of course I know we’re playing the Saints this week. I’m just so nervous about my new gig as HC I looked at the schedule wrong.
Aaaaaaaargh, we’re going to beat those cheating Saints on Sunday.
October 10th, 2008 at 6:27 am
aha!?
October 10th, 2008 at 6:29 am
i like Cable being tight lipped to the media. He’s already smarter than Lane Kiffin
October 10th, 2008 at 6:32 am
Nice of Kiffin to call Russell on the phone.
I bet he’s not calling Davis, Herrerra, Taylor or Ryan…
Russell referred to Kiffin’s firing as a “bump in the road” haha. I bet he’s glad to get those training wheels off and play for somebody that has enough faith and confidence in him to do his job (even if he is young or raw)
October 10th, 2008 at 6:33 am
you might as well call him Air Russell this week against the Saints, who have a no talent, injured secondary. Walker for a buck fifty and 2 scores please
October 10th, 2008 at 6:33 am
ARCHIE MANNING were are U. Counting your son’s money , and /or making a DIRECT-TV commercial !!!
October 10th, 2008 at 7:13 am
If our passing game finally gets off the ground this weekend, it will be mainly due to the return of Justin Fargas, and not Knapp’s play-calling. You haven’t heard it mentioned much, but Fargas is far and away our best pass-blocking RB. Bush and McFadden were getting abused out there in blocking situations, which limited Jam’s ability to toss the ball. Fargas is also our most effective clock-chewing back, which is what we sorely needed against SD. I had high hopes that Bush would step right in and replace Fargas in that department, but he is just not in the same league. Fargas is such a violent and punishing back, he can really wear a defense down. Bush has the build, and the feet to be a great back someday, but he does not punish defenders and eat up the clock, yet.
October 10th, 2008 at 8:10 am
BBB why did you bring up eating up the clock? You know I’m soooo nervous about the game. What if I mess up clock management? Mr. Davis is going to fire me after the first game, I just know he will.
October 10th, 2008 at 8:12 am
FANTASY FOOTBALL NUTS…How could you think of starting Brees this weekend?
True RAIDER Fans wouldn’t start an opposing player and hope he does good against the Raiders…
Unbelievable!
October 10th, 2008 at 8:15 am
BBB
Saying that Bush and Mcfadden got abused is a humongous overstatement. They were not as effective as Fargas, though I did see darren make a few nice blocks, using the word abused is a bit much.
October 10th, 2008 at 8:15 am
Cable will have this entire season for sure.
If he proves to be better than Kiffin (not hard to do) and more importantly WANTS THE JOB, Al Davis will give him a 2 year contract. If he can’t get any more than 3 wins out of 12 games Davis will look somewhere else and Cable & Knapp will both join Mora Jr in Seattle.
October 10th, 2008 at 8:19 am
“If Burgess can’t play, Cable said the probable plan would be for Jay Richardson to play at left end, Kalimba Edwards at right end, and have Trevor Scott and Fred Wakefield available in reserve.”
Thankfully somebody in that organization has enough sense to move Richardson to the left side, I hope he gets to see some extended time there. I wonder if that is Cable’s doing, or Ryan’s.
Fred “Ironman” Wakefield is now our 3rd String DE,DT and OG. I believe that is what Kiffin was referring to when he said that the team lacks depth.
October 10th, 2008 at 8:23 am
One of those 6 sacks, was the direct result of a DE going right through McFadden like a hot knife through butter, he didn’t even slow him down. Fargas will at least get a chip block in to buy Russell time in the pocket. The difference in a chip block and a non-block may not look like much, but Jam can tell the difference.
October 10th, 2008 at 8:58 am
I’ll be watching you Cable. One mistake and you’re gone. You best be nervous sonny.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:09 am
“He also talked with defensive coordinator Rob Ryan” - Uh Oh dont let ESPN know that Al talked to any of the coaches. He would be underminding them.
Just imagig where we would be if we have got Payton and we ended up with Norv. Thats not even close.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:10 am
good points BBB
think the Raiders will win on Sunday?
I can they CAN, but whether they will or not depends on how we finish in the 4th again. teams with discipline usually do better in the 4th, but the Saints obviously don’t have it either with all the turnovers & penalties on MNF. plus it’s a short week for them with a lot of injured players. we’ve had 2 weeks to prepare for this game and life w/o Kiffin. getting all the injured players back except Burgess and possibly Troupe.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:13 am
Al Davis Says:
October 10th, 2008 at 8:58 am
I’ll be watching you Cable. One mistake and you’re gone. You best be nervous sonny.
Yeeessssir.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:20 am
no kidding Tay
there hasn’t been a coach here since Gruden where i’d sat here and said “what the crap Al! why’d you let him go?”
Were any of you sad to see Callahan, Turner, Shell or Kiffin gone? I wasn’t. Payton would have been an upgrade over any of those guys. Bill was a discipline guy - players cried. Turner was a softy players coach - they took advantage of him. Art was an old school discipline guy, brought in a terrible staff - players cried. Kiffin was a softy players coach, who tried occasional discipline through the media. he is the only one of these coaches to make excuses. Davis hates the media, Kiff loved it “i feel like Brad Pitt!”. discipline is done in house, if there is any here in Oakland.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:33 am
The recievers still need get open to make catches and the line needs to block for Russell to do anything.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:46 am
LMAO @ sign from Allied Health. That’s hilarious man. Bet the crazy old fool is furious at that one. Might even try to sue.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:53 am
Jerry Mac thinks he is cool with his web exclusives!
October 10th, 2008 at 9:54 am
He needs to get some sense!
October 10th, 2008 at 9:54 am
The Raiders play pretty good on Madden ‘09. At least my team does.
October 10th, 2008 at 10:09 am
Get Some Sense Says:
October 10th, 2008 at 9:54 am
The Raiders play pretty good on Madden ‘09. At least my team does.
How well do the Saints do? Do you have a good game plan for me to put in for the Saints? I’ve been working on one all week but my trash can is full of crumpled paper, because I’m so nervous. Oh! Jeez! I wet myself again!
October 10th, 2008 at 10:13 am
Press Coverage! How about a blitz every now and then! Engage 8!
October 10th, 2008 at 10:16 am
None of you can question the Führer’s judgment. He is the all knowing great leader of this Empire.
October 10th, 2008 at 10:27 am
idiots..
October 10th, 2008 at 10:27 am
Cable better watch his back he has another “interim” HC looking at his job.
Haslett began his pro coaching career as a Raiders linebackers coach in 1993.
“I love Al Davis,” Haslett said. “He understands the game. He may be a little demanding in some areas. And it’s a hard job working for Mr. Davis. He’s very demanding of the defense. He knows how he wants it run. He wants a defense that is quick and that can run. He wants an offense that throws the ball long.”
October 10th, 2008 at 10:28 am
i agree with LMN (for once) - post #125
October 10th, 2008 at 10:29 am
Really Good Story….
Get Some Sense…..
ALAMEDA, Calif. — Dead leaves skitter across the asphalt parking lot outside the Oakland Raiders’ dark, foreboding facility. The whiff of chlorine wafting from the decorative, fountain-less pond smells vaguely of formaldehyde.
Fall, in a manner of speaking, has come to the Raiders’ franchise. Winter, of course, is inevitable. All great civilizations are doomed to die. It happened in Egypt, China, Greece and Italy.
Related
More on the Al Davis’ Raiders:
• “Sunday NFL Countdown” (ESPN, 11 a.m. ET): Decline of the Raiders
• Garber: Why are they so bad?
• Zoom gallery: Al Davis’ days
• Clayton: 2 clear choices for coach
• Williamson: No breaks on schedule
• Scouts: Five good things
• Wickersham: Praise for Al (really!)
• Watch: Evaluating JaMarcus Russell
• Football Today: Raiders talk
• Power rankings: Raiders 27th
• Scouts: Raiders-Saints report
The first and last emperor of the Raiders, Allen Davis, made a rare public appearance last week. Contrary to popular speculation, the 79-year-old owner has not lost his mind. Indeed, Davis displayed a formidable command in a 45-minute news conference designed to justify his firing of coach Lane Kiffin.
“I reached a point where I felt the whole staff, we were fractionalized, that the best thing to do to get this thing back was to make a change,” Davis said. “It hurts because I picked the guy. I picked the wrong guy.”
Indeed, 20 months earlier, Davis hired the 31-year-old Kiffin — only the No. 2 candidate for the Raiders’ job from USC’s assistant coaching staff, behind quarterbacks coach Steve Sarkisian. Davis, his face florid, eyes tired and a tad watery, was rational in presenting an argument that eventually will come before a judge. Rational but, sadly, irrelevant.
“It didn’t have to do with winning,” said Davis. “It had to do with personality. It’s the first time I ever let anyone go based on what I call [being] a flat-out liar.”
It didn’t have to do with winning.
But it had everything to do with Davis.
Back in the day, when the Raiders won three Super Bowls in the eight seasons from 1976 to ‘83, “Just win, baby,” was Davis’ mantra. During that run, which compares to the New England Patriots’ current period of prosperity, no one did it better than the Raiders.
It’s been 24 years — nearly a quarter century — since the Raiders won a Super Bowl. And yet, that is the happy place, the past, where Davis continues to live.
[+] EnlargeJohn G. Mabanglo/AFP/Getty Images
Standout receiver Tim Brown, a Raider from 1988 to 2003, places the blame for the team’s demise largely on Al Davis.
When he met the media last week, Davis was wearing a black-and-silver Raiders jacket with the phrase “The Team Of The Decades” stitched onto the arm. You’ll find it on the cover of this season’s media guide. The three Super Bowl trophies, representing quaint Roman numerals IX, XV and XVIII, are on the back, along with the three championship rings and this: “The greatness of the Raiders will continue in its future.”
At best, this is wistful thinking. At worst, delusional fantasy.
“Knowing Mr. D. the way I do, there’s no way he’s going to stop saying that — because he believes it,” said Tim Brown, who played wide receiver for the Raiders from 1988 to 2003.
Brown, like most of the 15 people close to the Raiders who were interviewed for this story, placed the blame for the demise of the Raiders largely on Davis, who has grown increasingly isolated. A number of those interviewed declined to go on the record, citing a fear of alienating Davis.
“The Raiders’ organization was a family,” Brown said last week in his suburban Dallas home. “That meant whatever happened outside that building stayed outside that building. Whatever happened inside stayed inside. I would have liked for [Davis] not to have gotten into the personal things that happened between them. I don’t know how that really came off.”
To Be cont.
October 10th, 2008 at 10:29 am
Part 2.
And so, these Raiders find themselves on the threshold of antigreatness. With a 1-3 record entering Week 6 play at the New Orleans Saints, the Raiders are on pace for a 12-loss season. This would give the Raiders six consecutive seasons with 11 or more losses, placing them, almost unfathomably, below the 1985-89 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the NFL’s enduring symbol of futility. Parsing the numbers another way, in going 4-12 last season the Raiders joined the 1984-86 Buffalo Bills and 1998-2000 Cincinnati Bengalsas the only NFL teams to lose 12 or more games in three consecutive seasons.
Temp agency
Since reaching Super Bowl XXXVII in January 2003, the Oakland Raiders have won only 20 of 84 games — the worst record in the NFL over that time. One possible reason for the futility: They’ve had five different head coaches in less than 5½ seasons.
Recent Raiders coaching records Season Coach Record
2003 Bill Callahan 4-12
2004-05 Norv Turner 9-23
2006 Art Shell 2-14
2007-08 Lane Kiffin 5-15
2008 Tom Cable 0-0
Detroit Lions president Matt Millen — a former Raiders linebacker — lost his job after Detroit went 26-57 over the last five-plus seasons. The Raiders, meanwhile, are a league-worst 20-64 since reaching Super Bowl XXXVII, including 5-28 in the AFC West. The reason? Al Davis, who began 45 years ago as the Raiders’ general manager and head coach in 1963, cannot be fired.
His two most successful coaches were John Madden and Tom Flores, who from 1969 to ‘87 won those three Super Bowls and produced a combined record of 203-95-7. But since Jon Gruden left after the 2001 season for Tampa Bay, Davis has hired and fired Bill Callahan, Norv Turner, Art Shell and Kiffin. Interim coach Tom Cable, Kiffin’s replacement and the former offensive line coach, is Davis’ fifth hire for the job in just over five seasons.
“It’s not a tough place to work — it’s an impossible place to work,” Rich Gannon, the quarterback who took the Raiders to their last Super Bowl, said in a Sirius NFL Radio interview. “It’s an organization that is, in my opinion, dysfunctional.”
Said Brown: “That family bonding thing, that can’t be there if you have different coaches coming in week after week after week it seems like. That was the great thing about Gruden when he came in. He established a program. We knew he was making some calls and doing some things that he wanted to do, and guys responded.
“Until they get back to that, it’s going to be very difficult to be consistent on the field, winning games.”
Gruden, whose Buccaneers beat the Raiders 48-21 in Super Bowl XXXVII, had a degree of control with the Raiders. With executive Bruce Allen acting as a buffer between him and Davis, Oakland became a playoff team again. Today, Allen is Gruden’s general manager in Tampa Bay.
[+] EnlargeStephen Dunn/Getty Images
“It’s not a tough place to work — it’s an impossible place to work,” says Rich Gannon, the last QB to take the Raiders to a Super Bowl.
The primary issue in Oakland is control. Davis won’t relinquish much, if any. The overwhelming consensus: Davis needs a general manager. Fact is: Qualified personnel men won’t come to Oakland and Davis probably wouldn’t trust them if they did. He is Al, alone. The stark, solitary image of Davis last week, bathed in soft light at the front of the team’s theater, is more telling than the tens of thousands of words that have been written on the subject (including these).
Once upon a time, Davis was a wizard of personnel.
He liked big, strong players with an attitude. Scouts say that his unshakable faith in “measurables” isn’t in step with the times, when the successful teams also give weight to attitude, personality and intelligence. Since Gruden left, the Raiders’ first-round draft choices have been cornerback Phillip Buchanon, cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, offensive tackle Robert Gallery, cornerback Fabian Washington, defensive back Michael Huff, quarterback JaMarcus Russell and running back Darren McFadden.
Not one of them has ever played in the Pro Bowl — granted, Russell and McFadden are in their first seasons as starters.
In today’s information age, the Raiders reportedly do not keep their scouting records on computers. Davis, who often doesn’t arrive at work until after noon, rarely affects the offensive game plan, but former players say he still insists on tweaking the Raiders’ trademark attacking defense — even when it might not suit the team’s personnel.
“No one tells you how bad it is,” Warren Sapp, who played defensive end for the Raiders from 2004 to ‘07, said on Showtime’s “Inside the NFL.”
His advice to prospective free agents?
“Any person that calls me on the telephone,” Sapp said, “‘Do not go anywhere near Oakland.’
“[Davis] is the common equation. You take him out, put him at home watching film or whatever he is doing — you have a functioning football organization.”
The Raiders’ ineptitude has forced them to overpay for free agents.
In the offseason, Davis laid out a staggering $144 million for contracts to wide receiver Javon Walker, defensive tackle Tommy Kelly and safety Gibril Wilson. Walker’s six-year, $55 million contract is essentially double the three-year, $27 million deal the Patriots gave former Raider Randy Moss.
[+] EnlargeMarvin Gentry/US Presswire
“You take him (Al Davis) out, put him at home watching film or whatever he is doing — you have a functioning football organization,” says Warren Sapp, a Raider from 2004 to 2007.
Kelly, despite coming off a serious knee injury, is the highest-paid defensive tackle in league history.
The atmosphere at the Raiders’ facility has turned toxic. On Sept. 22 Raiders senior executive John Herrera accosted San Jose Mercury News columnist Tim Kawakami in the Raiders’ media room about a piece he had written about the imminent firing of Kiffin, saying, “You built a whole column on a lie!”
“You’re embarrassing yourself,” Kawakami responded coolly.
“I don’t care!” Herrera said.
Five television cameras caught the ugly, finger-wagging episode and the video immediately became an Internet must-see among football fans.
“This is a peeling-back-the-curtains moment of the mania of the Raiders,” Kawakami said in an interview last week. “It is a little peek into the fanaticism of what’s going on.”
Kawakami believes Davis desperately needs to trust someone other than himself.
“No franchise puts it on one man, yet this franchise puts it on a 79-year-old man,” Kawakami said. “There’s fear there. Fear of just dropping off the face of the earth even further than they are, fear of Al being embarrassed. That’s why he fires coaches so quickly, because he’s embarrassed about what’s going on. Five times in the last six years the coach has been the problem.
“Al Davis has never said, ‘I’m the problem.’”
Said Sapp: “Al Davis knows football — it’s just ’60s and ’70s football. That’s what he is. He’s thinking that Cliff Branch is outside and [Jim] Plunkett is dropping back and you can throw it 80 yards down the field — deep ball, deep ball, deep ball.”
Davis, the first and last emperor of the Raiders, ended his dramatic news conference this way:
“We’ll be back. The Raiders will be back. I just know that the fire that burns brightest in this building is the will to win — and we will win.
“We will win.”
October 10th, 2008 at 10:32 am
Get Some Sense Says!
Even though times are tough now, Al Davis has a long history of successes.
He set up a player-friendly franchise that for decades was known for being able to recruit some of the top athletes in the sport. A former NFL head coach, Davis always had a great eye for young assistant coaches. He spotted the talents of Jon Gruden, Sean Payton, Ken Whisenhunt and many other bright young offensive minds well before they became head-coaching commodities.
Related
More on the Al Davis’ Raiders:
• “Sunday NFL Countdown” (ESPN, 11 a.m. ET): Decline of the Raiders
• Garber: Why are they so bad?
• Zoom gallery: Al Davis’ days
• Clayton: 2 clear choices for coach
• Williamson: No breaks on schedule
• Scouts: Five good things
• Wickersham: Praise for Al (really!)
• Watch: Evaluating JaMarcus Russell
• Football Today: Raiders talk
• Power rankings: Raiders 27th
• Scouts: Raiders-Saints report
As he ponders new head-coaching choices for the Oakland Raiders after a season in which he dumped Lane Kiffin after four games, Davis has two choices. He could rely on his coaching eye again and try to find the next among the best and the brightest. Or he could go for a sure thing. To my way of thinking, Davis has no choice. He either hires Dennis Green or Jim Fassel or he fails. The solution is simple.
The Raiders’ years of failure and turmoil will make it hard to recruit good young coaches. Davis won’t have any problem getting bright young coaches to talk to him. Who wouldn’t talk to a Hall of Fame icon? The problem will be getting someone to accept the job. Davis doesn’t like to pay top dollar for young coaches, and young coaches will be scared off by the lack of a strong front office and how Davis still makes major decisions. Only those who know Davis and accept those ways would be willing to take the job.
The other problem facing Davis is the way he deliberates. He doesn’t make decisions quickly. He’ll keep the Raiders assistants who are under contract on hold until he finds a replacement, and then let them know about their futures. Davis prefers to interview slowly. He’ll use the Senior Bowl in late January as a time to talk to candidates. He’ll carry the process into Super Bowl week, and maybe longer. That would mean Tom Cable would be dangling as an interim candidate, and the organization would be stuck in neutral until February.
This franchise needs to move forward, and it needs to move forward fast. That’s why Green or Fassel should be interviewed and hired as soon as the season concludes. Why waste time? They are Davis’ only true choices. Either would be willing to accept the position for the right money and the chance to bring back one of the best brand names in sports. Each coach has been a winner. Each coach has a defined style of leadership. Each coach knows Al and understands how to work in his environment.
The Raiders and Davis can’t afford to experiment. Too much is at stake. Davis admitted last week he’s entering into lease negotiations in Oakland. Raiders fans are frustrated. Green or Fassel would be a simple solution. Davis doesn’t have to make this too complicated.
October 10th, 2008 at 10:40 am
Raiders @ Saints preview.
http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d80b7f4a4
October 10th, 2008 at 10:40 am
Get Some Sense Says:
October 10th, 2008 at 10:13 am
Press Coverage! How about a blitz every now and then! Engage 8!
That makes sense, but what is Engage 8?
October 10th, 2008 at 10:42 am
I see everyone’s still mindlessly obsessed with what the media keeps “reporting” on the team..HEY JERRY, this was a B.S. update…JaMarcus is going back to the state he made himself into a college star, and no mention of him going back “home” or how big it’s going to be for him to play his first game back in Louisiana, no real reporting or updates, just more negative “SARAH PALIN’-ish B.S…
Can we have more news than this? What’s up with Curry, Javon Walker? What’s up with Madsen? Is he going to get to play this week..?
October 10th, 2008 at 10:49 am
Raider Fan,
I only can tell you what Mr. Davis allows me to tell.
October 10th, 2008 at 10:53 am
No new DT?
I thought Al was holding up on bringing D line help because he wanted Kiff out. But to have Burgess hurt and still not bring anybody in is plain dumb. Our d line was gassed at the end of the last 2 games…C’mon Al, bring some fresh beef to the D line!
October 10th, 2008 at 10:53 am
JaMarcus is going back to the state he made himself into a college star, and no mention of him going back “home” or how big it’s going to be for him to play his first game back in Louisiana, no real reporting or updates
What’s up with Curry, Javon Walker? What’s up with Madsen? Is he going to get to play this week..?
***************
Russell is excited. wants to have a big game. Curry & Walker will start. Madsen may get some limited reps in the game if Miller is forced to stay inside and help Green and/or Harris contain Will Smith & Charles Grant
October 10th, 2008 at 10:54 am
well now that jerry has reported on the sign next door (some bronco fan) we can all go about our business…great work jerry, what are they saying in the bathroom?
October 10th, 2008 at 10:57 am
los m, warren should be healthier than he was against the chargers. sands & kelly have been working pretty hard on conditioning ever since they got here before preseason. Kelly had a tough go of it due to the injury and Sands will never be a full time starter according to Kiffin, so obviously we knew that coming in. Wakefield has been practicing solely on the d-line since the 3rd preseason game. Maybe he’s ready to contribute? Sam Williams & Trevor Scott can both play DE if J-Rich is forced to move inside
October 10th, 2008 at 11:02 am
Rockstar, I hope we can do with those guys, i doubt it. lets hope wakefield steps up, and gives Warren, Sands & Kelly time to rest up…
October 10th, 2008 at 11:10 am
So when is Cable going to get Cornell Green out of the starting lineup?
Here is our statistical ranking for rushing yards broken down by running lanes (courtesy of FO).
Left End LT Mid/Gaurd RT Right End
OAK 1 11 25 23 32
Notice the trend downwards as you move towards the right, and our right-end slot is dead last. That’s putrid, why don’t we let Henderson give it a go over there.
October 10th, 2008 at 11:16 am
Man, my formatting got butchered let me try that another way.
Left End 1st (Outside the LT)
Left Tackle 11th (Between LT and LG)
Middle/Guards 25th (Between the C and either Gaurd)
Right Tackle 23rd (Between RT and RG)
Right End 32nd (Outside the RT)
October 10th, 2008 at 11:28 am
kwame & cornell both offer great depth for our o-line, but they are not starting tackles in this league
we need to let Cable draft a pair of tackles if he stays in Oakland beyond this season
also, utility players like morris, wakefield & mcquistan need to play well at one spot to make the team. just because they can play multiple positions doesn’t make them worth keeping if they aren’t good at any of them. Morris is a C, McQ is a T, Wakefield is a DE. If they aren’t good enough to beat out the other guys there - they should be cut.
October 10th, 2008 at 11:39 am
Cable wanted Harris because he thought he could play. I thought he was blocking well against Denver until he got his leg rolled up on. He was out for two weeks before he came back against SD and had a bad game. I am hoping that his injury was the reason for his bad game and that Cable was right about him in the first place. Anyway, I think the book is still out on him and I want to see him play another two or three games before I make a judgement on him, then if he doesn’t show considerable improvement I will be ready to get on the anti-Harris bandwagon.
October 10th, 2008 at 11:41 am
I think McQuiston is a good player and worth keeping.
October 10th, 2008 at 11:48 am
Harris is a decent run-blocker, struggles in pass-protect, but is worth keeping. Cornell Green is the weak link in our line, Henderson or Marten should be working to replace him ASAP.
Cable is a great teacher on the O-line, I don’t yet trust his judgement on personnel though. I wouldn’t be so quick to let him choose a tackle in the draft.
October 10th, 2008 at 11:56 am
I don’t dissagree, but I am still willing to give Harris and Cable a fair chance to prove they were right about him. I don’t think it is fair to judge him on the SD game when he was coming back from injury.
October 10th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
I agree that Cornell Green is the weakest link on the O-line. That guy is a stop gap at best at RT. Cable needs to start developing Henderson and James Marten asap. If one or both of these guys develop, the O-line will be a strength.
Henderson did a commendable job filling in for Kwame. Let him take over at RT, and put Green out to pasture.
October 10th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Cable needs to get Henderson onto the starting line. Either at LT, and sliding Harris to RT, or by putting Henderson at RT to replace Green. He was pretty impressive in his two starts at LT, those games were our two best rushing performances.
October 10th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
I applaud the Allied Health Professionals of Alameda building signs. Davis has done amazing things for the league and the Raiders and no one can ever take that away from him. But now he is just ruining the team, carrying it to new lows with no hope in sight.
October 10th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
If Cable can win consistantly ,…let’s make him Treasury Secretary…Allied Health Professionals of Alemeda probobly doesn’t need a bailout as much as the clowns next door…..
October 10th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
Aaaaaaaargh! What do you guys think if I start Henderson at LT and move Harris over to RT in place of Green? Less than 2 days to go and I’m really getting nervous being the BMOC, Oh sheet, I wet myself again!
October 10th, 2008 at 4:40 pm
Has anyone found an actual photo of the sign placed in the window of the building next to Raider headquarters?
October 10th, 2008 at 8:24 pm
What I am looking forward to more then anything is Knapp play calling instead of Cable or like Kiffin did it. I think Knapp will open the game up and put Russell’s arm to work. The r/b’s give us opportunity for a lot of play action so it will be real fun to watch. However, we come back to the same old problem; our offensive line. They have to pass block and give Russell time to go through his progression reads to find a receiver, but he needs time and so far they haven’t been able to give Russell the time he needs. It also means that Miller will have to stay in to help block, so he is pretty much out of the passing game. The game can be an insight to what the Raiders style will be if Knapp opens up the passing game with play action. The Raiders could be a very dangerous team if the parts will fit. Its up to the performance of the offensive line. We will know early if the offensive line is up to the job. Harris,Gallery,Grove,Carlisle,Green, the out come is in your hands. Take care of business and it will give us a real good look into what the future will look like.