O-line’s scheme, makeup depends on Cable
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Tuesday, January 6th, 2009 at 6:13 pm in Oakland Raiders.
Fourth in a series evaluating the Raiders position by position as it begins it begins to prepare for the 2009 season.
Position group review: Offensive line
Starters: LT Mario Henderson, LG Robert Gallery, C Jake Grove, RG Cooper Carlisle, RT Cornell Green. Reserves: T Kwame Harris, C-G Chris Morris, C John Wade, T Paul McQuistan, T Mark Wilson, T James Marten. Unrestricted free agents: Grove, Carlisle.
The direction of this unit will become more clear once it is learned whether Tom Cable returns as either head coach, offensive coordinator or offensive line coach.
He won’t have the triplicate role of being in charge, calling the plays and handling his beloved grunts, but if Cable is still around, the Raiders will remain a zone blocking team, with an emphasis on beating opponents to the punch rather than overpowering them.
Cable believes in the scheme very deeply, and it was at its glorious best in the fourth quarter against Tampa Bay, when Michael Bush rushed for 129 yards and the Raiders left Bucs linemen strewn all over their own field.
If Cable doesn’t get the head coaching gig and takes another job, the Raiders could return to a man-blocking scheme or some kind of hybrid, as Denver has done in recent years.
As was the case in 2008, the Raiders’ best lineman was a guard, only this time it was Gallery, who had only three penalties all year and who would be getting some run as an upper tier player at his position if Oakland had a winning record.
Gallery has already reworked his contract once, usually an indication a player isn’t going anywhere, and with cap number approaching $9 million, could be asked again.
The rest of the line wasn’t nearly as consistent. Carlisle, the most steady player in 2008, found himself manhandled on occasion against the more physical tackles and is an unrestricted free agent.
Grove’s contract automatically voided on playing time incentives. The Raiders’ Ed Block Courage Award winner for his recovery from micro-fracture surgery, Grove is a staunch Cable supporter and his plans could hinge on whether the coach returns in some capacity.
Originally signed to be a veteran backup, Green has been a two-year starter on the right side and carries a $1.8 million salary into next season. Ideally, he’ll be a backup and a mentor to Henderson and other young linemen.
During the draft or free agency, the Raiders need a frontline tackle _ maybe two. The scheme they select will determine whether they seek a bruiser or someone more lean and athletic.
One of the bright spots over the past three games was Henderson. A public whipping post for former coach Lane Kiffin, and ridden hard by Cable in private, Henderson’s passion and desire were openly questioned.
He subbed for Harris against Buffalo and Kansas City, with Harris getting his job back when healthy. He subbed for him again because of injury later in the year, with Cable going back to Harris end emphatically stating he was the Raiders’ left tackle.
Finally, as Harris continued to struggle, Henderson got the job over the final three games, didn’t make a single penalty, and proved worthy of at least entering camp as a favorite to start.
Harris, on the other hand, is due $2 million in salary plus a $6 million roster bonus after earning $605,000 with a $1.5 bonus in 2008. Harris will never see the second year, certainly not with those numbers.
Cable’s loyalty _ he was convinced Harris would be a standout left tackle _ got the better of him in this case. He lobbied for Harris, who struggled in pass protection for the 49ers, and it stands out as his worst mistake in judgment since joining the Raiders.
The Raiders have right of first refusal on Morris, a smallish, mobile guard/center who won’t be around if the blocking scheme changes radically.
The Raiders still have Wade under contract for another year at $1.5 million should they lose Grove.
Marten, a Cowboys practice pick, was signed off their practice squad but was never active for a game as he adjusted to the system. Although Cable said he liked Marten’s progress, they never considered activating him even though Harris was struggling, Henderson wasn’t a favorite of the coaches and Green’s health was a week-to-week proposition.
McQuistan, who spent the season on injured reserve following knee surgery, adapted slowly to zone blocking and was ticketed for a reserve role before being injured. Wilson, also on I.R., will be fighting for a roster spot.
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January 6th, 2009 at 6:14 pm
408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408 408!
Thanx 4 the fix Jerry
January 6th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
2nd
January 6th, 2009 at 6:18 pm
FREE DIRTY!!!
January 6th, 2009 at 6:21 pm
Good to hear!
January 6th, 2009 at 6:26 pm
7th!
January 6th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
12th
January 6th, 2009 at 6:36 pm
It’s a great night to be a Raiders fan. Isn’t it?
Draft and/or Free Agents:
Priority #1: Get the WR playmaker JaMarcus needs
Priority #1a: Get the MLB playmaker the defense needs
Then, make sure the O-line and D-line do not regress, and find Chris Johnson’s replacement at CB, and this team’s ready to go.
Coaches? Who needs coaches?
January 6th, 2009 at 6:39 pm
Brains? Who needs brains?
January 6th, 2009 at 6:47 pm
Hey jerry is there any way al could bring back gruden? or is he still under contract with the bucs.
January 6th, 2009 at 6:48 pm
Just Sell Baby!
January 6th, 2009 at 6:48 pm
#7 HayesDaze#37 Is Chris Johnson gone? Did I miss something because I would love to see him stay.
January 6th, 2009 at 6:51 pm
Gruden’s still in Tampa, and it’s probably a wise choice on their part. Gruden had cold feet dismantling their defense and making them an offensive team all these years. Now that M. Kiffin is gone, Gruden is going to build the Bucs the same way he built the Raiders. They already have some good weapons on O. Now there’ll be more. Gruden believes in a ball control offense anyway so if it’s ran effectively, he won’t need a great defense, just one that’s good enough to shut the door.
January 6th, 2009 at 6:52 pm
Chris Johnson is wearing #37 proudly, and he’s deserving of a new contract. Way better at press-coverage than anyone expected, and way better than DeAngelo for this defense.
But sadly, Chris Johnson’s 29-years-old already.
We need some more young blood at CB…
January 6th, 2009 at 6:54 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBQ2Cp6eVHQ
January 6th, 2009 at 6:56 pm
Gruden’s still in Tampa, and it’s probably a wise choice on their part. Gruden had cold feet dismantling their defense and making them an offensive team all these years. Now that M. Kiffin is gone, Gruden is going to build the Bucs the same way he built the Raiders. They already have some good weapons on O. Now there’ll be more. Gruden believes in a ball control offense anyway so if it’s ran effectively, he won’t need a great defense, just one that’s good enough to shut the door. God I miss him every day and every night.
January 6th, 2009 at 6:57 pm
Gruden’s defense is aging where it matters most — Derrick Brooks is just about done. No scheme, from any Defensive Coordinator, can replace players like DB.
Gruden’s QB-less team has so many holes, it would be merciful for Tampa to let him go somewhere else. Gruden’s lack of genius will be more evident than ever in ‘09.
January 6th, 2009 at 6:59 pm
Gruden is God. You know you miss him too.
Just Sell baby!
January 6th, 2009 at 6:59 pm
Hayes, Gruden was only staying true to D there because of M. Kiffin. They’re good friends. Kiffin’s gone now and it’s all Gruden’s, and Gruden’s building an offensive team now. That’s why he’s still there.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:01 pm
Tampa is far better off than we are, Hayes. But we showed what we can do when Al Davis is nowhere near the team. We run the ball and use a ball control offense while we rebuild, we can beat some good teams.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:02 pm
I love talking Gruden. Who else is up for a little Gruden chat?
January 6th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
I think WE won because Al wasn’t there.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Gruden’s probably still there only because options for “name” head coaches are slim to nil right now. Short of Shanahan, there isn’t another HC the Glazers want to hand the keys to. Gruden’s still a “safe” coach, even if his job isn’t anymore.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
The playoffs just aren’t the same without Chucky.
I wish WE lost.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
He’s there because Tampa Bay is smart, Hayes. Dumping Gruden at this point would be an Al Davis move. The Glaziers want to win. Gruden can build an offense, and they know that. Gruden has had cold feet building the offense there because of Kiffin and the defensive culture he inherited. It’s all him, now. There offense is only going to get better.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
The only reason Gruden hasn’t been succesful is because of MONTE. Now that Monte is gone the NFL better get ready for some serious Gruden ball.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
“their” offense is only going to get better, I meant.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
I miss Gruden! Who’s with me?
January 6th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
When I said “their” offense is only going to get better I meant “worse.”
January 6th, 2009 at 7:11 pm
Who wants to talk Chucky?
January 6th, 2009 at 7:11 pm
I miss gruden 2! he what we need bk.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:13 pm
We all do eric. We all do. He is what we need bk.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
Eric what is your favorite Gruden memory?
January 6th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
Do you prefer skinny Gruden or fat Gruden?
January 6th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
Yaawwn…
Gruden’s in deep sh!t and you know it. His seat is as hot as any HC in the league.
Here’s his biggest problem…he no longer scares people with that scowl. The young guys grew up watching the schtick on television 8-years ago, and the old guys have always just shrugged it off as a novelty.
Now that the old guy veterans aren’t even on Gruden’s bandwagon any longer, his game is up. If he can’t replace his Hall Of Fame players immediately, his personnel shortcomings will be his downfall. Another Gannon isn’t gonna appear to save him.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:18 pm
Couldnt al still make a move towards gruden .how bout aso and a draft pk and 8 mill 4 gruden?
January 6th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
I hope so Eric. The Raiders just aren’t the Raiders without Chucky.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
Gruden would have been fired by now if he were going to be fired. Hayes, you obviously don’t watch much football outside of Raider highlight films. Gruden balanced building the team for offense and defense. He wanted to stay true to Tampa’s defensive culture and he’s good friends with Monte Kiffin. Now that Kiffin’s gone and the Dungy era is far gone, it’s all Gruden’s now. He will build primarily for offense and basically his defense will be good enough. He’ll pretty much have a team similar to our 2000 team, except that it’ll be better because he won’t have some lunatic owner messing up his defense.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:27 pm
I prefer Fat Gruden. Don’t get me wrong, skinny Gruden is cuter but fat Gruden is just more manly.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
I am changing my name from MaddenRaider to Sad Dum Roider because I ate a bunch of steroids when I was younger, and they all went straight to my brain like Lyle Alzado. My brain is mush now, and I make no sense. But I still post 500 times a day cause I have no friends.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
Hayes, you obviously don’t watch much football outside of Raider highlight films. Gruden will have the Bucs winning the super bowl for the next five years.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
Gruden “building” a team with older vets and scared kids won’t work again. Without superstar players immediately, he’s toast. Bye-bye Monte — gulp…
January 6th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
ufck Calgary…. there up on my sharks 1-0..
we got this tho
January 6th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
MaddenRaider Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
Gruden would have been fired by now if he were going to be fired.
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See, it’s these kind of stupid comments I made all because my mind is mush. What was I thinking? Why would the Glazers fire Gruden now? They were going to run him last year. If they ran him now, they would have to compete with 4 or 5 other teams. Not only that, but Al Davis would have been proved right after the Glazers paid Al 8 million dollars and 2 lst rounders for Gruden. Man, I shouldn’t have done Roids when I was younger. It’s messed up my brain. Signed, MR
January 6th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
I trolled you
January 6th, 2009 at 7:39 pm
HayesDaze#37 Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 6:36 pm
It’s a great night to be a Raiders fan. Isn’t it?
Draft and/or Free Agents:
Priority #1: Get the WR playmaker JaMarcus needs
Priority #1a: Get the MLB playmaker the defense needs
Then, make sure the O-line and D-line do not regress, and find Chris Johnson’s replacement at CB, and this team’s ready to go.
Coaches? Who needs coaches?
I have to disagree with you big time on this one, C Johnson is a beast over on the other side, I don’t know what games you were watching.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:45 pm
Gruden, huh? …
ok, we NEVER should have been in the position to get rid of Gruden. he should have been the coach for 20 years ….
then again, how could we refuse the offer Tampa made? that trade was ridiculously lopsided in our favor. too bad we F’d off the draft choices.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
dee-fense !!!!!!!
dee-fense!!!!!!
dee-fense!!!!!!
January 6th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
# Voldemort Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 7:39 pm
I have to disagree with you big time on this one, C Johnson is a beast over on the other side, I don’t know what games you were watching.
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Chris Johnson is not under contract right now. He can play anywhere he wants. Even my roided eaten brain remembers that. Signed, MR
January 6th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Tampa and Minny will be in a bidding war for Matt Cassel this offseason. My money’s on Tampa cus they $43 million under the cap. But the defense gonna lose some key defenders.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
when are we going to tag Nmandi so we can start shopping him already? nothing personal Nmandi, but we can’t affors a 10-12 mil per year corner.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
(Pretend Im using the Voice Jim Mora used when he said “Playoffs???!!”)
Cable????…. Cable? Jerry are you still talking about him?
January 6th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
Chris Johnson comin back. Loyalty. He’s gonna get Kwame Harris’ money.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
Gruden gets Cassell and Hayes Daze is going to be one angry mo fo next year at this time, when Tampa’s enjoying home field advantage and the Raiders are coming off of a 2-14 season under Barney Rubble, and Russell is begging to get out of Oakland.
January 6th, 2009 at 7:59 pm
1st and 3rd for Nmandi?
1st and player for Nmandi?
January 6th, 2009 at 8:01 pm
If Davis doesn’t trade Gruden, we win Super Bowl 37. The Lombardi trophy is more valuable than future draft picks and cash. The Lombardi trophy is the object of this game, period, and you never forsake an opportunity to win it when you’re within striking distance, all in the name of business and/or personal grudges. It’s one thing if you suck, as we do now, then you have to make business forecasts. But when you’re close to the Lombardi, you go all in. The trade will be remembered as one of the dark moments in Davis’s career, like how he dealt with Marcus Allen, Lane Kiffin (the bizarre press conference), and not to mention the drumming the Raiders took in SB37, with their coach on the opposing sideline.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
A coach is not gonna solve all our problems. A GM won’t either.
A shoe company will take care of everything. Nike is gonna forge the adidas shoes DMAC wore in college and the rest will be history. Just like Buick painting over Tiger Woods’ Titleist Clubs.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:03 pm
Sounds like the raiders are just like the lions and texans when it comes to o-line……..u cant have large slow footed lineman running a zone blocking scheme…..the Broncos know how to do it right……no one over 305.you need athleticism
January 6th, 2009 at 8:06 pm
my lions will give you ernie sims for namdi straight up!all sims does in detroit is over run plays and knock out his own teammates.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:08 pm
Why’s a Lion fan here? To make fun of us? To get a laugh at the one team in the league with an even more bleak future than theirs? Probably.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:08 pm
We trade Nnamdi to Saints for:
#14 pick, 5th rnd pick, OT Zach Strief, LB Scott Shanle.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
This is why our record never changes because our owner and fans are stuck in the past people Gruden is never coming back Rich gannon is not going to come out of retirement neither is Tim Brown its up to the players we have now to change our record because we cant change the past we cant take back trading gruden we can only hope and pray that the players we have now can change our future So get over it whats done is done
January 6th, 2009 at 8:10 pm
We take that deal in a heartbeat if Al hires Millen.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:12 pm
MaddenRaider Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 8:01 pm
If Davis doesn’t trade Gruden, we win Super Bowl 37.
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Man what was I thinking? Gruden is the only coach to drop his last four games that hasn’t been fired. All he had to do was win one and he was in. As much as I hate to say it, Al was right. Gruden should have been run. rob Ryan completely outcoached him in that last game. How good could he be? I guess no one can look into the future. If Al knew he was going to face Gruden in the Super Bowl, he wouldn’t have traded him. He had about a 15% chance. Oh well. Signed, MR.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:12 pm
CaliRaider, Gruden is just a part of Raider history. We’re celebrating history, that’s all. Why do you have such a problem with Raider fans celebrating a time when their team was good? We were good from the late ’60s to the mid ’80s, and good again between ‘00 and ‘02. Why can’t fans rejoice those years? In leau of it, you want us to what, break down how fast our 3rd string TE can run a 40 yard sprint? I don’t think so. Lighten up or butt out.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:14 pm
By trading Gruden to an NFC team that had made the playoffs the previous season, he either had to have known good and well that the Bucs were a possible SB opponent, or he thought he was trading Gruden to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. That genius Al..
January 6th, 2009 at 8:14 pm
# MaddenRaider Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 8:08 pm
Why’s a Lion fan here? To make fun of us? To get a laugh at the one team in the league with an even more bleak future than theirs? Probably.
————————————————-
Oh, man, that was a doozy. Sorry Raider fans, attribute that to my brain being mush. We were 3-3 in our last 6 games. We knocked Tampa out of the playoffs, and beat a red hot Texas team. Detroit was 0-16. My brain is mush. Signed, MR
January 6th, 2009 at 8:16 pm
oakland would be smart to draft crabtree….followed by DE in the 2nd.I know Kalimba shows potential but thats all he did at detroit for 4 yrs..secondary dont look too bad….OH and someone tell me wat the problem was with Deangelo Hall!! i didnt see many raider games when he was there. what was his weakness?
January 6th, 2009 at 8:16 pm
Our O-line sucks the hairy one! Gallery is nowhere near worth 9 mill a year…Bye bye Grove & Harris…Super Duper Mario has a futuh!…MacQueen can’t saty healthy…Draft me some beef!
January 6th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Our new DC will be much better than Ryan. He will take the defense down to L.A. for training camp. They will do two-a-days on the freeway in morning and evening rush hour traffic. Stay in your lane. Cutting off drivers and switching 3 lanes to get off exit will be practice reps for our blitz packages.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
# MaddenRaider Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 8:14 pm
By trading Gruden to an NFC team that had made the playoffs the previous season, he either had to have known good and well that the Bucs were a possible SB opponent, or he thought he was trading Gruden to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. That genius Al..
————————————————
All those steroids ruined my brain. 6 teams make the playoffs. One goes to the Super Bowl. Anything can happen. Thats only a 16.7% chance of seeing Gruden. I guess those are pretty good odds. I don’t know what I am saying in my MaddenRaider posts anymore. Signed, MR
January 6th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Detroit at least has a future. With Al Davis, the Raiders don’t even have that. And, we only knocked Tampa out of the playoffs because with Davis 3,000 miles away, Barney Rubble was able to grow a sack and go to Kiffin’s playbook. Notice we didn’t put that game into Russell’s hands? Had we, we would have been watching Tampa and Minn last weekend.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
Detroitlion Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 8:16 pm
oakland would be smart to draft crabtree….followed by DE in the 2nd.I know Kalimba shows potential but thats all he did at detroit for 4 yrs..secondary dont look too bad….OH and someone tell me wat the problem was with Deangelo Hall!! i didnt see many raider games when he was there. what was his weakness?
After week 9, DeAngelo was too clear.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:25 pm
i hope N.O. Raider was joking about the millen thing. good linebacker back in the day but cant scout or manage a draft worth crap. Raiders got a future too as long as they get a WR DE and both OT could use help…..LB are a mystery in oakland
January 6th, 2009 at 8:30 pm
Hell yeah it was a joke. You think we’d give up Nnamdi for London Fletcher (part II).
January 6th, 2009 at 8:39 pm
MaddenRaider Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
Gruden gets Cassell and Hayes Daze is going to be one angry mo fo next year at this time, when Tampa’s enjoying home field advantage and the Raiders are coming off of a 2-14 season under Barney Rubble, and Russell is begging to get out of Oakland.
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Unlike you, MR — It wouldn’t kill me to see somebody else do well, whether (not rather!!) or not I particularly like the person, like Gruden. I can take or leave the guy…you’re in love with him.
The Raiders’ success, or lack thereof, doesn’t affect how I perceive other teams. If they do well, so be it. If they don’t, it has no bearing on how I feel about AL or the Raiders.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
i wish ernie was london fletcher part 2! that would be great.Sims cant learn how to play WLB let alone move to the middle. London fletcher can get there and wrap up….Sims FLYS there and swats at the ball carrier as he runs by him.Cant keep containment.cant blitz that well….he drove me nuts all year. I want to get rid of him while the rest of the leauge still thinks he is “A great player on a bad team”
January 6th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
Voldemort — I’ve been watching the same games — you’ll see I am Chris Johnson’s #1 fan. He wears #37 proudly, and he’s done a great job. He’s just not going to last forever, and he’s already older than Nnamdi…
January 6th, 2009 at 8:47 pm
Do NOT draft Crabtree…draft someone who will have a (college) Crabtree-like impact on his professional team. Trade Crabtree’s rights/trade down, and take one WR who will do that — Hakeem Nicks from UNC.
January 6th, 2009 at 8:52 pm
# MaddenRaider Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Detroit at least has a future. With Al Davis, the Raiders don’t even have that. And, we only knocked Tampa out of the playoffs because with Davis 3,000 miles away, Barney Rubble was able to grow a sack and go to Kiffin’s playbook. Notice we didn’t put that game into Russell’s hands? Had we, we would have been watching Tampa and Minn last weekend.
—————————————————-
Wrong again MR. Down by 10 in the 2nd half, we did put the ball in Jamarcus Russells hands, and he performed beautifully. You must try to be this stupid. Or does it come naturally?
January 6th, 2009 at 8:54 pm
trading down would work too.as long as russel gets a WR in the first 2 rounds. the raiders keep putting together receiver corps that are practice squad guys and Cable and davis have no idea why they cant move the ball. RBs are looking good though..do you guys think Namdi,Fargas, will be back or will they dish out the money to keep them?
January 6th, 2009 at 9:04 pm
All this Gruden has given me the runs. Madden Raider please get over it. He’s gone and he ain’t coming back, and good riddens..
January 6th, 2009 at 9:04 pm
So cable is the reason we got harris and he is the reason bush didnt play . Yeah no way do i want mr.22 game balls back and take buddy ryans kid with you, yeah the ryan twin who didnt get any talent. Draft wisely we need help in key spots.
January 6th, 2009 at 9:10 pm
Believe it or not Cable is our best shot at a division title next season. Like it or not , he’ll be back. Hoping for anyone else is just that, hoping.
January 6th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
nnamdi- tag and sign
lechler - sign
carter - sign to league min
draft nicks with the first pick
ol/lb/dl/qb in later rounds in that order
restructure walkers & kellys contracts
shed harris, green, walter, tui, lelie, curry
retain cable, lofton, rathman, schneider
new oc/dc
equals long shot playoff contender in 2009
just sayin
January 6th, 2009 at 9:12 pm
tom Cable has done a very good job. He sure outcoached old man Kiffin.
January 6th, 2009 at 9:19 pm
post70,you need to watch the TB game again,you sir, are an idiot,as usual-mr=mrs=maddenraider=foolkell and Lord knows how many others!Raiders
January 6th, 2009 at 9:26 pm
# MaddenRaider Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Detroit at least has a future. With Al Davis, the Raiders don’t even have that. And, we only knocked Tampa out of the playoffs because with Davis 3,000 miles away, Barney Rubble was able to grow a sack and go to Kiffin’s playbook. Notice we didn’t put that game into Russell’s hands? Had we, we would have been watching Tampa and Minn last weekend.
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One has to wonder what team MR really watches because it certainly is not the Raiders. He must be a niner or charger or bunco fan. With one minute to go in the first half on a 3rd and 4 Jam hit Shelins for a first down, then threw a strike to Zack for 22 yards down to the 10 and then fired a TD to Shilens with 10 seconds to go in the half to take the lead. Madden Raiders hero Lame Kiffin would have taken a couple of kneel downs and then tried a 70 yard FG.
January 6th, 2009 at 9:41 pm
I am a little girl that likes to say people sux dixs. I know, very intelligent and adult huh? I know that I always act like a child and an a total dipschit but I can’t help it. My mom took drugs when I was in the womb.
Everyone makes me their biotch on this blog but I really like making a fool of myself!
January 6th, 2009 at 9:45 pm
I wish I had a job or a woman then I wouldn’t act like such a litte douche bag but I don’t so get ready for more and more of my bullsh!t in here!
January 6th, 2009 at 9:47 pm
I pull chicks yes I do! They are ugly but so what?
January 6th, 2009 at 9:57 pm
I suck dix. No really. I do. I just finished sucking one a few minutes ago.
January 6th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
When looking at Kiffin vs Davis.
Kiffin played old Al like the fool that he is.
A 32 year old suckered a legend.
Now Kiffin is a millionaire after just being a co offensive coordinator at USC and being lucky enough to get hired by the Raiders and steal 2 million from Davis.
Then he will be stealing more money from Tennesee for the next couple of years? He is only 33.
Wow….he has a heckuva agent or Kiffin is one heckuva scam artist.
January 6th, 2009 at 10:17 pm
I really hope Cable stays, however i would prefer him as OC. Get a defensive mind HC and let Cable run the offense on his own (a good reason for him to stay). Let the HC choose his DC.
The OL: a RT, C and a back up G.
The DL: a big DT and a big DE (we already have enough pass rusher)
The LB: a Strong LB. Keep Morrison in the middle. If the DL does its job, he is more than fine.
DB are fine. Keep them all.
QB: get ride of Tui and take a late round / undrafted player. Walter is more than enough as back up.
RB / FB Bush DMC Fargas in that order Griffin Reece and OO (pup and likely IR)
TE Stewart is ok but maybe Reece can help
WR does not need a player. Walker Higgins Shilenz Shields Watkins Holland and Carter will fight for roster spot. bye bye Curry
So we do need
RT, C, SLB, DT, DE, G, QB in that order of importance
January 6th, 2009 at 10:26 pm
Raiders are not going after crabtree Nicks is a better WR but i would like for the raiders to get that usc MLB
January 6th, 2009 at 10:29 pm
I have been campaigning for a decent “O” line since our last Superbowl appearance. Without a dominate “O” line we will never realize playoff potential. The run game will not be there for the likes of Dmac and Bush nor will JR ever reach his potential when he is running for hislife. The same is true for the “D” line but we need to protect our financial investment at QB and RB first before we focus hard on the “D” line. Seriously, the Raiders should not even consider a skill position ever again until the dominate lines are in place. Once the dominate lines are in place, the play of the skill positions will be elevated and players will actually want to play for the Raiders again!
January 6th, 2009 at 10:31 pm
MR’s Troll Patrol Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 8:52 pm
# MaddenRaider Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Detroit at least has a future. With Al Davis, the Raiders don’t even have that. And, we only knocked Tampa out of the playoffs because with Davis 3,000 miles away, Barney Rubble was able to grow a sack and go to Kiffin’s playbook. Notice we didn’t put that game into Russell’s hands? Had we, we would have been watching Tampa and Minn last weekend.
—————————————————-
Wrong again MR. Down by 10 in the 2nd half, we did put the ball in Jamarcus Russells hands, and he performed beautifully. You must try to be this stupid. Or does it come naturally?
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Nnamdi21 says:
Yoy dude! MR, your giving Mortesen a run for his money.
I know everyone can;t afford NFL ticket (f*ck, I can’t!) but if you don’t see the games you can at least look up the stats!
January 6th, 2009 at 10:34 pm
dark side Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 10:26 pm
Raiders are not going after crabtree Nicks is a better WR but i would like for the raiders to get that usc MLB
=====================================================
Not happening. Davis is going to let Lechler go. Our 1st round pick is going to be…
http://raidernationstation.com/exclusives
Kevin Huber, University of Cinncinati Bearcats.
January 6th, 2009 at 11:07 pm
BOOMER!
January 6th, 2009 at 11:07 pm
BOOMER
January 6th, 2009 at 11:08 pm
BOOMER…
January 6th, 2009 at 11:08 pm
That’s my Billy Simms imitation
January 6th, 2009 at 11:17 pm
# Mikey D Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
nnamdi- tag and sign
lechler - sign
carter - sign to league min
draft nicks with the first pick
ol/lb/dl/qb in later rounds in that order
restructure walkers & kellys contracts
shed harris, green, walter, tui, lelie, curry
retain cable, lofton, rathman, schneider
new oc/dc
equals long shot playoff contender in 2009
just sayin
I couldn’t agree with you more on the decisions. But these things just don’t happen.
–we can tag nnamdi but i really don’t think he wants to sign any sort of contract with the raiders, not even a max contract.
–I think Lechler is a true Raider, he will re-sign..i would be suprised as hell if he didn’t sign with us.
–The draft picks should go OL, WR, DB, DL..Pick up QB Willie Tuitama from Arizona, he will probably be an undrafted free agent.
–Walker and Kelly defiantly won’t want to restructure their contracts.
January 6th, 2009 at 11:46 pm
MaddenRaider
CaliRaider, Gruden is just a part of Raider history. We’re celebrating history, that’s all. Why do you have such a problem with Raider fans celebrating a time when their team was good? We were good from the late ’60s to the mid ’80s, and good again between ‘00 and ‘02. Why can’t fans rejoice those years? In leau of it, you want us to what, break down how fast our 3rd string TE can run a 40 yard sprint? I don’t think so. Lighten up or butt out.
——————————————————
I never said we weren’t good back then im just saying lets not talk about the past and let talk about the draft or what we should do this offseason instead of talking about what could of happened its just depressing thinking about how good we were and compared to now but the future is bright with Jrus and Dmac and JLH and shilans and mario and miller im just hoping Al gets this offseason right
January 7th, 2009 at 4:28 am
James Marten was on the 53 man Dallas roster. He was
never on their practice squad. He was a third round pick out of Boston College.
January 7th, 2009 at 4:39 am
Morning NATION!!!
January 7th, 2009 at 5:51 am
Debra..
lol, well how would you explain us signing him?
well, he was moved to practice squad and then we signed him.. but that said, i have higher hopes Marten, than McQuistan, which incidentally has a twin brother in Dallas =) It is said Dallas would have used Marten December, had they had him. But I dont know if that is true.. But I like him..
Many here like McQuistan, I did too, but i just dont feel he ever will be a starter in ZCB scheme, which i hope we will keep!
January 7th, 2009 at 6:30 am
hey LMN G/M!!! Who would you like us 2 draft 1st???
January 7th, 2009 at 6:52 am
ok if you are scared I will tell you mine,TA-DA!!! Alex Mack-Cal
January 7th, 2009 at 6:53 am
Does anyone think that Al will hire a GM anytime soon? Someone in here joked about hiring his son as a GM…uh…hope not…
January 7th, 2009 at 6:55 am
Hey 4eva,
Either Mack or Unger would be good. Unger is more versatile though, right? Just throwing things out there…
January 7th, 2009 at 7:03 am
wow. Looks like we don’t have to worry about seeing Kwame Harris start at LT next season!
everybody breathe a sigh of relief…
January 7th, 2009 at 7:04 am
So Ann Killion is a 49er fan that writes biased pieces against the Raiders, not a new revelation but for those that are riding the fence here is proof.
http://www.mercurynews.com/raiders/ci_11382435
January 7th, 2009 at 7:04 am
Hwnrdr,I agree with those who say Unger is more versitile.Thats ok I guess,but 2 me that sounds like a jack of all trades,master of none.Dont get me wrong tho,in the middle of a season and injuries are mounting,Unger would be beneficial.But…I think Mack is a once in a generation type Center.Big,mean,strong and the smartest player in collage.Which way 2 go??? It’s a good dilema 2 have,but I would RATHER have Mack imo
January 7th, 2009 at 7:09 am
nice ideas by RAJ ALL DAY & Mikey D in post # 101
“Does anyone think that Al will hire a GM anytime soon?”
I don’t think so. Al said he’d bring in a front office guy. an exec. Everyone ASSUMES GM, but Al never said GM. We’re just looking to replace Mark Jackson imo, he and Steve Reaves were probably given their walking papers as soon as Kiffin was fired.
January 7th, 2009 at 7:14 am
It would be nice to have Cooper Carlisle one more season. Then if Jake Grove doesn’t void the final year of his contract, we’ll only need to address the tackle position in the draft. Focus on guard and center next year. First 2 rounds should be focused on OT & WR.
Crabtree if available and best tackle in Round 2. If Crab if off the board, go tackle in the 1st and best available WR in the 2nd.
If Asomugha gets tagged & traded, use one of those picks to draft his eventual replacement. Draft DE, DT & LB in rounds 3-7.
January 7th, 2009 at 7:30 am
Post 111,
I don’t like anyone in SF Gate,Mercury news or whatever. None of those people give a crap about the Raiders, so why should we care what they write (even though, some stories may have been on the mark)? And now Mort can take his high nose to you know where… Anyways…based on Killion’s article, SF may try to grab him if Al doesn’t lock him up (which I doubt).
January 7th, 2009 at 7:36 am
Testing….
One, two, three….
Testing….
January 7th, 2009 at 7:37 am
Whew, mods must be on vacation!
January 7th, 2009 at 7:42 am
fukk Killion
January 7th, 2009 at 7:42 am
let er rip Dakota!!!
January 7th, 2009 at 7:47 am
Who is going to win tonight? My money is on Florida.
January 7th, 2009 at 7:48 am
isnt that 2morrow???
January 7th, 2009 at 7:49 am
Yes, that game is tomorrow…but I have to pick Florida, too. Speaking of Florida…isn’t Spikes on that team?
January 7th, 2009 at 7:50 am
yes =)
January 7th, 2009 at 7:52 am
Florida also has twin brothers,Markus&Mike Pouncy that start on their offencive line
January 7th, 2009 at 7:53 am
Game isn’t on until tomorrow? Bummer. I guess I will have to watch the Lakers beat on the Warriors instead.
January 7th, 2009 at 7:56 am
in my opinion I think Ole’Miss is the best and most balanced team in collage
January 7th, 2009 at 7:56 am
Are you guys aware of such Web sites as nomorenorv.com and firenorv.net ? SD wants to oust Norv Turner after 2 seasons, just like we did. HAHA. I think those websites will get a whole lot more hits after they lose to the Steelers this weekend. Charged Up! probably created the sites. Raider fans must have talked some sense into him …
January 7th, 2009 at 8:00 am
=)
January 7th, 2009 at 8:00 am
i wanted Crabtree but the OT from Va at #7 and give up a #2nd and a #5 to get Nicks late in the 1st.
January 7th, 2009 at 8:00 am
SAN DIEGO (AP) San Diego Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of drunken driving.
Jackson failed sobriety tests shortly after 2 a.m. on state Route 52 in San Diego, said California Highway Patrol Officer Ray Scheidnes. He said he didn’t know Jackson’s blood alcohol level.
An officer stopped Jackson after spotting the player braking abruptly, speeding and weaving in a 2008 GMC Sierra, said Highway Patrol Officer Brad Baehr. Jackson was on probation for a previous DUI arrest, he said.
The player was taken to the San Diego County jail and released.
Chargers general manager A.J. Smith said he was aware of Jackson’s “off-the-field issue.”
“Obviously we’re disappointed,” Smith said. “We take these issues very seriously. Moving forward, we will monitor the situation and have no further comment.”
***
LOL !!!
January 7th, 2009 at 8:01 am
There is an article on here that talks about keeping Norv because he has a 12-1 record in December and November in the past 2 seasons. Funny…didn’t SD fire Marty after a 14-2 season? So…Norv had a reg season record of 19-13 these past 2 years and he will keep his job? I think only if they make the SB…
January 7th, 2009 at 8:05 am
Boston College’s Jeff Jagodzinski met with Jets officials Tuesday to discuss the opening - an interview that was expected to cost him his job with the Eagles.
Jagodzinski, who became BC’s coach in 2007, was told by athletic director Gene DeFilippo that he would be fired if he met with the NFL team.
***
If the Jets pass on JJ for Head Coach, would Al Davis & the Raiders consider him?
January 7th, 2009 at 8:08 am
After the dolts lose to the Steelers, Turner will be fired and Tomlinson will retire. Rivers will revert back to turd status w/o Norv Turner, like Alex Smith did. Darren Sproles is expected to become a free agent at season’s end too. LOL. 8-8 might win the AFC West next year too with the donks still searching for a coaching staff and an overhaul on D…
January 7th, 2009 at 8:14 am
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)
Ending a 20-year run as president, general manager and chief executive of the Chiefs, Carl Peterson delivered a 40-minute farewell speech on Tuesday to friends and staff.
The 64-year-old longtime pro football executive did say he has no plans to retire.
“I’m thinking about going away for a couple of weeks and relaxing,” he said.
“Perhaps my favorite stat is that his teams beat the Raiders 30 of the 41 times that we played,” Clark Hunt said.
***
Bill Parcells is staying in Miami, thus shutting the door on that possibility. Could Peterson join our front office?
January 7th, 2009 at 8:17 am
Morning friends,..cya later today at La Bou!
January 7th, 2009 at 8:18 am
http://www.keepthecableguy.com
January 7th, 2009 at 8:19 am
morning Bob
January 7th, 2009 at 8:28 am
The draft picks should go OT, WR, DE, DT, DB
January 7th, 2009 at 8:31 am
Dakota, the Lakers are going down tonight to the dub’s!!! Or at least I am trying to convince myself. Pau got schooled last night
January 7th, 2009 at 8:31 am
I have Baltimore winning it all.
January 7th, 2009 at 8:32 am
The draft/FA priorities are in the following order: RT, MLB, DT, C, WR, OG
January 7th, 2009 at 8:32 am
Word 4eva,..if you see brien today say hi for me.
January 7th, 2009 at 8:34 am
Titans-Giants. The #1 seeds are going to get it done this year
January 7th, 2009 at 8:35 am
Vegas,
Sounds like West had a career night and Odom went down with an injury…
Still, we could start our bench and still beat the W’s.
(Sorry RaiderDogg if you read this!)
January 7th, 2009 at 8:35 am
Our 1st round pick is going to be Kevin Huber, University of Cinncinati Bearcats.
***
Nnamdi21: that’s not funny. We got Schmitt on the practice squad and we could easily grab a punter in round 4 or 6.
I like that website you gave though:
http://raidernationstation.com/exclusives
pretty sweet!
January 7th, 2009 at 8:38 am
The draft picks should go OT, WR, DE, DT, DB
FA priorities should go WR, LB, DT, DB
January 7th, 2009 at 8:42 am
W’s play there best ball against the Lakers over the years. W’s best ball means close game and blow it at the end.
What bench? No Farmar or Odom (hopefully)
January 7th, 2009 at 8:42 am
Titans-Giants. The #1 seeds are going to get it done this year
***
Vegas: The Titans? really? Kevin Mawae may not play in this game against the Ravens. Haynesworth & Vanden Bosch will be playing hurt. Imagine the beef of Neal & McClain running right up the gut on the Titans. Then comes McGahee with his speed. Flacco is a runner too and has a strong arm. Titans DB’s aren’t very good. The most unfavorable matchup? Kerry Collins vs. the Ravens secondary. This is going to be Super Bowl 2000 all over for him. Even if the Titans have a strong ground game, the Ravens will have the advantage with Kevin Mawae out. Collins doesn’t have a talented enough receiving corps to win the game with his arm alone. swing passes to Chris Johnson out of the backfield is their best chance for big plays. I see Ravens 24 Titans 13.
but who am I? I thought the Cards & Chargers would lose last week too!
January 7th, 2009 at 8:46 am
I think the Giants will take care of business though. It will be a close game. McNabb will throw an interception in the 4th quarter to seal the win. I think Giants 28 Eagles 24
January 7th, 2009 at 8:47 am
Rockstar:
Last week, it seemed like half the crowd in Miami was rooting for the Ravens, so this will be Flacco’s first REAL TOUGH road playoff game. Look over the years with Fisher, it doesn’t matter who plays the, D is solid, especially the front 7.
Plus, last week was like a homecoming for the Ravens, with all the guys from Miami and FSU. Collins, may struggle, but he won’t throw 4 picks like Noodle Arm did last week for the Dolphins. It’s going to be a great close game either way, I’ll go with the home team with the more experienced coach/QB combo.
January 7th, 2009 at 8:50 am
Vegas,
Sounds like West had a career night and Odom went down with an injury…
Still, we could start our bench and still beat the W’s.
(Sorry RaiderDogg if you read this!)
January 7th, 2009 at 8:51 am
will do Bob =)
January 7th, 2009 at 8:59 am
Collins, may struggle, but he won’t throw 4 picks like Noodle Arm did last week for the Dolphins.
***
Chad Peepeetongue is usually a very accurate passer. The most accurate in the league actually. The Ravens create turnovers with pressure. They have 26 interceptions this year. Titans defense has 20. Kerry Collins has only thrown for 2600 yards and 12 TD’s this year. Flacco (a rookie) has thrown for 2900 yards and 14 TD’s. Even Russell’s 2400 yards and 13 TD’s is almost as good as Collins. If the Ravens get a lead and the game is winding down, Collins may be forced to throw a lot, in which case I can see him turning the ball over. Maybe not 4 picks, but 2 or 3.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:01 am
Vegas: what do you think about Chargers-Steelers?
obviously i’m biased … haha
January 7th, 2009 at 9:01 am
http://www.keepthecableguy.com
January 7th, 2009 at 9:03 am
http://www.keepthecableguy.com
January 7th, 2009 at 9:07 am
I have confidence that Fisher will coach the pants off of his rookie counterpart.
Titans offense is more balanced and a straight-ahead power team for the most part. The Mawae injury definately affects that. Miami’s offense is built on speed and misdirection and can’t stretch the field. They stood no chance against the fastest D in the league. Our boy Fabian better be ready because he is probably there weakest link and will be a target this weekend. If collins throws 2 or 3 picks they will be in trouble. Just don’t see it as that type of game, but you make good points, and it will be a great game, as will most of the games (except Carolina-AZ)
January 7th, 2009 at 9:09 am
last time the Steelers & Chargers met:
Rivers: 164 yards, 0 TD’s, 2 INT’s
Tomlinson: 18 carries, 57 yards (3.2 ypc)
Roethlisberger: 31/41, 308 yards
Parker: 25 carries, 115 yards (4.6 ypc)
SD Defense: 4 sacks
Pitt Defense: 2 sacks, 2 picks, safety, 2 forced fumbles
Time of possession: Steelers 37 min - Chargers 23 min
outcome: Steelers win at home
January 7th, 2009 at 9:09 am
#154: Tough to get a feel, so many players are going to be playing hurt or not playing at all. Wouldn’t be suprised if SD wins, but I sure in the hell hope not. I can’t stand Rivers, if he got shot (didn’t die, but got shot) it probably would bring a smile to my face, and I’m not one of those types of guys.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:10 am
#158:
Don’t forget the no TD/TD call at the end of the game, that sent the sports books in a tizzy
January 7th, 2009 at 9:11 am
vegas raider Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 9:09 am
#154: Tough to get a feel, so many players are going to be playing hurt or not playing at all. Wouldn’t be suprised if SD wins, but I sure in the hell hope not. I can’t stand Rivers, if he got shot (didn’t die, but got shot) it probably would bring a smile to my face, and I’m not one of those types of guys.
——————————————————-
What type of guy are you? Because I am “that” type of guy, would you like to hook up?
January 7th, 2009 at 9:12 am
I will supply the wine, pills, and the dog. We can have some fun.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:16 am
Way out of context buddy. Not a guy that wishes bad things on people, even my adversaries.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:19 am
why does everyone say that Fabian Washington should have been kept? Saying he’s having a great season with the Ravens?
He had 31 tackles and 1 INT on the year. Jim Leonhard & Frank Walker (whom the Ravens got for nothing) have been just as impressive, if not more so than Fabian in the ravens secondary. I mean, with McAlister, Rolle & Reed as guys QB’s try to avoid, shouldn’t the extra db be expected to make more plays than he’s made?
Chris Johnson (only started half the season) for the Raiders had 33 tackles and 3 interceptions. Even reserve Rashad Baker had 24 tackles and 3 interceptions. I’m glad we traded him for a 4th round pick.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:25 am
Hello…… Nation!
January 7th, 2009 at 9:25 am
Steelers have the NFL’s #1 ranked defense.
“I think that confidence is born out of rising up in the face of adversity,” Tomlin said, a reference to the Steelers being able to win despite a tough schedule and many obstacles. “We’ve had a bunch.”
January 7th, 2009 at 9:26 am
RaiderRod Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 9:25 am
Hello…… Nation!
——————————————————-
Hello Rod. I like your name, “Rod”. It makes me hot.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:27 am
Chris Johnson is way better, especially physically and supporting the run, than Fabian. Fabe’s is certainly reaping the benefits of being surrounded by pro-bowlers and Hall of Famers.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:27 am
I think Tennesse’s defense is #2
January 7th, 2009 at 9:28 am
Tenn & Pitt a better game to watch.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:28 am
Thank you Narco….I think.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:32 am
Good piece, it helps to demonstrate that we have only one capable starter on the line, and that’s Gallery. We need a pro bowl caliber left tackle, at the very least competition on the right side with Henderson, and plenty of help inside as well. Grove is capable although not ideal, while Carlisle should also be replaced. The two tackle spots though are the two biggest holes on our football team.
Needs
1.LT
2.RT
3.WRF
4.RE
5.NT
6.C
7.RG
8.WRSE
9.LE
10.FS
11.MLB
12.CB
January 7th, 2009 at 9:37 am
#172:
Don’t you think our biggest, most consistent hole is our inability to stop the run? Our O-line, while very inconsistent and often times poor in pass-protection and blitz pick-up, improved to the point that it was the most dominant group on the field the last two games.
On the O-line, our biggest weakness is center, which is obvious with our inability to punch it in on the goalline and short-yardage.
I think Henderson at around $500,000 is a better option than a rookie at $7 million.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:39 am
I wouldn’t even have a problem with that S&B , first 2 picks should be O - Line.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:41 am
James Marten T 6-8 310
Do we even use this guy?
January 7th, 2009 at 9:45 am
Ricky Schmitt P 6-3 210
Our future punter , so were covered in case we lose Lechler , just won’t be the same though.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:45 am
first 2 picks should be O - Line.
***
I agree with Rod and Silver & Black Attack
except we don’t need 2 tackles, just 1. T & C should be the first 2 picks. Can’t cut Walker, Fargas or Huff due to the cap hits. So many youngsters at WR already. I blame the run defense on Rob Ryan. We rise from ranking 30-32 to 20 as soon as we hire a new DC.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:49 am
vegas raider Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 9:37 am
#172:
Don’t you think our biggest, most consistent hole is our inability to stop the run? Our O-line, while very inconsistent and often times poor in pass-protection and blitz pick-up, improved to the point that it was the most dominant group on the field the last two games.
On the O-line, our biggest weakness is center, which is obvious with our inability to punch it in on the goalline and short-yardage.
I think Henderson at around $500,000 is a better option than a rookie at $7 million.
^ If the Raiders don’t want to pay the #7 pick, then they better TRADE down! I don’t want them paying a WR that high of money either, especially since the WR won’t be starting.
There are no DT’s worth taking with the #7 pick and the only LB’s they should consider taking is Rey or Spikes IMO. Mays would be a GREAT pick at #7 but are they willing do pay another safety big money? The only DE that might be worth taking at #7 would be Everett Brown if he has solid workouts. Otherwise getting a solid LT or RT like Oher or Monroe should be the way to go. The O-Line needs dominannt linemen so they can protect the offensive investments in Russell, DMC and Bush.
The smart move is to trade down and try and get Alex Mack from Cal. But this is Al Davis we are talking about so he might be crazy enough to trade up…..even though the team can’t afford it!?! haha
Gallery needs to restructure down again
January 7th, 2009 at 9:52 am
Don’t you think our biggest, most consistent hole is our inability to stop the run?
***
Davis doesn’t draft linebackers in Round 1. You can find so many good ones later in the draft or even undrafted. If we wanted a DT we would have drafted Dorsey or Ellis last year. Instead we overpaid for Tommy Kelly. I agree it’s an issue, but I don’t think Kelly, Warren, Sands & Joseph are THAT bad of a DT group. Better coaching, technique, schemes and conditioning would benefit this group greatly. Plus they could stay fresh if the offense could score some points …
January 7th, 2009 at 9:57 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 9:52 am
Don’t you think our biggest, most consistent hole is our inability to stop the run?
———————————–
I like big holes.
January 7th, 2009 at 9:57 am
dark knight: you make great points. we’re going to pay a hefty amount for the #7 overall pick regardless of the position. Might as well address your biggest weakness. Davis doesn’t trade down, even if it seems like the smart thing to do. Not many teams like to trade up into the Top 10 either, unless they are already there and want to move up or down 2-5 spots hoping the player they want is still there. I think we stay at #7 and take the best OL available that fits our scheme. Who cares if Mel Kiper calls it a reach?
January 7th, 2009 at 10:00 am
dark knights, big holes, rods, ohhhh I am getting so very hot today….
January 7th, 2009 at 10:01 am
I agree , IMO if the only change on Defense is the Coordinator then we already have an instant upgrade on our Defense overall.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:01 am
Norco Bob makes himself look stupid enough as it is, he doesn’t need to be trolled. Same with KoolKell.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:02 am
Flame On !! Narco.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:04 am
I have to admit one thing about Rob Ryan , he was definately an upgrade from Chuck Bresnihan or so I felt.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:06 am
hey Vegas, do you know if Stanford Routt is an unrestricted free agent this year? people keep talking about him leaving, but i’m not sure if that is why or if he has the option in his contract to void the final year, Like Jake Grove does? I know Cooper Carlisle & Shane Lechler are UFA’s … Same with Drew Carter & Chris Johnson.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:09 am
Chuck Bresnahan wasn’t the best DC either, but he did enough to get this team to the playoffs a few times and even the Super Bowl. His defense wasn’t the reason we lost the Super Bowl. Chuck B had a pretty good year as DC with the Bengals a few years back. Remember when they made the playoffs and led the league in take aways? Deltha O’Neal was a pro bowler …
January 7th, 2009 at 10:09 am
There have been some bad contract structuring that has also created poor drafts and free agent p-ups too.
Management is definately putting a hurting on the team.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:12 am
I think Bresnahan needs pro bowlers to help him look good where as we need a DC to work with non pro bowlers and get good results , but good point Rockstar.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:12 am
Darkknight,
If ever a year to trade down this would be it. Maybe one of the QB’s will be available when we pick, and the Vikings, Jets or another team might want to trade up to grab him.
Spikes would be awesome for our D, Mays to me scares me a little, due to the USC safeties letely being oversized and not panning out in the league. Both him and Mack are late first-rounders, so a trade down could save us some cash and pick up another pick, and still get a guy we really need. I am not on the bandwagon of a LT at #7, ask Jets fans if they are happy with the last tackle from Virginia D’Brickashaw. Henderson at LT, and get a RT in the 2nd or 3rd round.
But we all know AL will draft the fastest guy anyways, so what the hell does it matter
January 7th, 2009 at 10:13 am
Rod, Davis thinks that throwing money at players motivates them. Often times, it does the opposite.
I wonder what puzzling moves the Raiders will make this offseason? Every year there is at least 5. Some more devastating than others …
January 7th, 2009 at 10:16 am
we need a DC to work with non pro bowlers and get good results
***
I see a lot of potential stars on defense. I think with an aggressive DC like Dick LeBeau or Jim Johnson this defense would be Top 10. We need a guy who can not only spot and develop talent, but a guy who puts the best players on the field and puts them in position to make plays.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:16 am
Rockstar , it seems are problems are great than the obvious , one must wonder if more emphasis should be placed on incentives and big bonuses if the stats are right then on an upfront contract just for signing.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:18 am
I like Juim Johnson alot , I just don’t think there is a realistic chance of getting him or an equal to him for the results we desperately need to see soon.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:18 am
Jim I mean.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:19 am
#187:
Apparently Jerry didn’t know what Routt’s contract status was, so I haven’t the slightest.
I like that you didn’t dump on our DT’s. Kelly actually had a decent year, not for his contract but if he was making 1 million instead of 8 we would be pretty happy. Sands and Warren should be situational only, Sands for run support (decent at that) and Warren is all right rushing the passer. Neither one is starter material.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:23 am
example: Kwame Harris was a backup. Backups need to make back up money. If they prove to be starter material, then give them an increase in their next contract. Javon Walker was getting mainly 1 year contract offers. Then the Raiders come at him with a long term deal to make him paid like a top 10 NFL receiver. Other teams wanted to find out if he could come back healthy and be effective after the injuries. Davis assumed he’d be healthy enough and paid him #1 WR money, thinking thats what we were getting. major mistakes. Don’t get me started on DeAngelo Hall …
January 7th, 2009 at 10:26 am
I just don’t think there is a realistic chance of getting him or an equal to him for the results we desperately need to see soon.
***
I’m sure it’s not hard to find a guy who favors an aggressive defense. I was just using those 2 DC’s as examples. Search through the position coaches on other teams and college coaches. I’m sure somebody would be eager to take the talent on our D and get all the credit for making it top notch. I would!
January 7th, 2009 at 10:30 am
Apparently Jerry didn’t know what Routt’s contract status was, so I haven’t the slightest.
***
Jerry only answers the obvious questions in his live chats. He doesn’t know any more than we do and if he did, he would post it here. If you ask him a tough question, he’ll say “i don’t know” and give you his opinion. His opinion means nothing, because Davis is not predictable.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:33 am
I’m just glad Al admitted his mistake with Hall, and cut him and didn’t give that worthles POS another penny. The second-round pick for him was a killer
January 7th, 2009 at 10:33 am
I hear you Rockstar , but I worry after the Lane Kiffin fiasco alot of would be gung ho coaches would rather rethink that opportunity for them coming to the Raiders.
I agree though , I would also.
I hold out hope.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:34 am
Old stubborn man Al…just hire a decent head coach, player personnel man, and let the head coach hire a solid defensive coordinator and get the hell outta the way for the next 3 years and then you can evaluate how they are all doing after 3 years.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:35 am
Al letting Hall go like that was a shocker , I don’t think I remember any like that happening before.Unexpected.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:37 am
Darkknight if he does that , it won’t take three years.
You will have great status by the second year.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:38 am
#203
Makes so much sense that it couldn’t possibly happen in Raiderland
January 7th, 2009 at 10:44 am
# 4evaRaider Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 6:30 am
hey LMN G/M!!! Who would you like us 2 draft 1st???
____________________________________________________________
hmm, well I rather wait with draft speculations till after we know who the new HC will be..
Our needs will change regarding which scheme/philosophy we choose..
But if you ask, what I would do…then i would trade out of the 1st round, trade players even just worth 5th round, if we dont need them or can find an upgrade..
But im really sitting here in suspense, waiting for the HC hire, and we better find one soon, so we can get a head start!
January 7th, 2009 at 10:44 am
Oh, just think, if crazy old Al wouldn’t have gotten so butt hurt over Kiffin taking control of his football team (as a real head coach is supposed to), we could be going into Pittsburgh this week. But, Al’s crazy ways have ruined yet another season for us, and have set us back at square one, ensuring we won’t be competitive again for at lest 3 more years (and that’s if we get a real gm to come here.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:45 am
Al’s biggest gripe has to be that he want’s to prove all they nay sayers wrong.
i.e. 6 consecutive losing seasons.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:45 am
[...] McD: O-lines scheme, makeup depends on Cable O-lines scheme, makeup depends on Cable O-line’s scheme, makeup depends on Cable - Inside The Oakland Raiders - A look inside the worl… __________________ RaideroftheSith aka [...]
January 7th, 2009 at 10:50 am
HOMO GUY SAYS:
JaMarcus Russell needs to move to the LT.
JaMarcus Russell needs to call Oprah & go on her latest diet.
JaMarcus Russell needs to lay down in Dr. Phil’s leather coach for an hour of head shrinking or head expansion.
HOMO GUY says:
The Raiders keep losing.
The Raiders are clueless.
The Raiders are gerbils running on a spin wheel.
HOMO GUY says:
Doesn’t Cable look like John Goodman’s little brother?
HOMO GUY says:
Do Raider fans shower in their Halloween costumes after Raider home games?
HOMO GUY says:
The Raiders will lose 11 or more game next season… again.
So says… HOMO GUY.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:51 am
I will still always yearn for a new begining , every time the season ends.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:53 am
Time to skedaddle fellas , catch you all later on.
Good chat.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:53 am
vegas raider Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 10:12 am
Darkknight,
If ever a year to trade down this would be it. Maybe one of the QB’s will be available when we pick, and the Vikings, Jets or another team might want to trade up to grab him.
Spikes would be awesome for our D, Mays to me scares me a little, due to the USC safeties letely being oversized and not panning out in the league. Both him and Mack are late first-rounders, so a trade down could save us some cash and pick up another pick, and still get a guy we really need. I am not on the bandwagon of a LT at #7, ask Jets fans if they are happy with the last tackle from Virginia D’Brickashaw. Henderson at LT, and get a RT in the 2nd or 3rd round.
But we all know AL will draft the fastest guy anyways, so what the hell does it matter
^ The thing about drafting a RT in round 2 or 3, is that will they be able to start?
Oher and Monroe can start right away at RT IMO.
I think we will have good opportunities to trade down becuase the #7 position is a good spot top be in. There will be plenty of solid players avalaible that teams will want to move up to get IMO.
Potentially two OT’s…a big time safety in Mays who I suspect the Niners will want, two LB’s Rey and Spikes.
I think the Raiders will certainly get phone calls about trading the pick. Lets just hope the old man doesn’t blow it. They traded down in round 2 to get Zach Miller two years ago and that worked out just fine. Trading down works….
January 7th, 2009 at 10:58 am
Trade Down in the Draft! Please, Al, no more 4.2 second CBs that can’t play a damn! (Phillip, Fabian…does DeAngelo count?)Don’t draft a Safety, you have no idea how to! Stay away from RB’s I think we have enough depth there…Beef up the lines…oh, and draft your annual project 6-6, 260, 4.3 second, any position, guy in the 7th round.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:04 am
Al should trade Zach Miller and Nnamdi for T.O. and Pacman Jones.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:08 am
If Orakpo slides….then he would probably be the best pick becuase of the value he would bring for being picked at #7. A fast, strong, well built defensive end with a non stop motor who can rush the passer and is stout against the run. He is a solid 6′4 265 pounder.
I think the queefs will probably take Orakpo at #3 though. They need a pass rusher to replace Jared Allen badly. St Louis will probably take Andre Smith at #2 Detroit should take a QB, if not they will take Smith.
Seachickens will look at Crabtree most likely….Brownies will look hard at Beanie Wells or Malclom Jenkins….Cinncy will look at Oher, Monroe or Crabtree if he falls.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:08 am
Robiskie? Robiskie? Robiskie? Are you kidding me? Do we really want Art Shell II. The fact that he has even been mentioned as a head coach shows how pathetic Al Davis is. He was a terrible offensive coordinator when he was with the Raiders. I’d rather stick with Cable.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:09 am
Al should trade Zach Miller and Nnamdi for T.O. and Pacman Jones.
***
Al should trade Ronald Curry & Kwame Harris for Patrick Crayton & Doug Free.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:11 am
I want Robiskie’s kid, the WR from Ohio State. Could be a 2nd or 3rd rounder, and the kid can play.
Orakpo is also a great dude with a good work ethic. We need more of those guys, as long as they don’t play like Tyler Brayton.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:11 am
RaiderRockstar Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 11:09 am
Al should trade Zach Miller and Nnamdi for T.O. and Pacman Jones.
***
Al should trade Ronald Curry & Kwame Harris for Patrick Crayton & Doug Free.
**************
I would take Doug E. Fresh for Kwame
January 7th, 2009 at 11:11 am
We need T.O. He is the mega star this team needs to put us over the top. With T.O, this team would win the division easily. T.O. is the X factor.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:12 am
I wouldn’t mind getting Owens & Jones from the Cowboys in exchange for Javon Walker & John Bowie …
January 7th, 2009 at 11:13 am
I agree with your take on Robiskie. He’s never been anything other than a position coach outside of the Raiders… Trade Javon Walker for Tom Brady and Randy Moss…
January 7th, 2009 at 11:13 am
Vegas Raiders says:
I would take Doug E. Fresh for Kwame
I would take a bag of fresh donuts for Kwane.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:13 am
According to my projections….the pick for the Raiders will be either Oher, Monroe, Spikes, Rey or Mays unless of course they trade down.
Crabtree and Orakpo will not be there at #7. The wild card within the top five is Aaron Curry.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:13 am
Wot do u think we would get for Nnamdi? 1st and a 2nd. KC got a 1st and two 3rds for Jared Allen. If we could i’d trade him. Draft players for the 0-line and D-line. Pick up Al harris as the Packers are dnt want him and maybe go for Pacman, surely the Cowboys dnt want him he struggles with zone but it a pro bowler at man coverage. Even if he is a turd.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:14 am
Trade Turdell Sands for Justin Tuck… trade, trade, trade.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:15 am
Trade John Herrera for Bill Parcels.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:15 am
vegas raider Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 11:11 am
I want Robiskie’s kid, the WR from Ohio State. Could be a 2nd or 3rd rounder, and the kid can play.
Orakpo is also a great dude with a good work ethic. We need more of those guys, as long as they don’t play like Tyler Brayton.
Brayton got mind screwed by Ryans dumba$$ moving him around every year. If he would have been kept at DE, he would have been a solid contributor IMO.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:16 am
Trade Amy Trask for Pam Anderson…
January 7th, 2009 at 11:16 am
Robiskie would be a good pick in round 4.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:16 am
Cole Ford Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 11:08 am
Robiskie? Robiskie? Robiskie? Are you kidding me? Do we really want Art Shell II. The fact that he has even been mentioned as a head coach shows how pathetic Al Davis is. He was a terrible offensive coordinator when he was with the Raiders. I’d rather stick with Cable.
————————————————–
Robiske is a joke. But AD is interviewing him to satisfy the minority interview rule.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Raiders wont trade that pick eventhough they need to. Raiders either getting an OT or DB………thats the way it will be until Al goes
January 7th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Wot do u think we would get for Nnamdi? 1st and a 2nd. KC got a 1st and two 3rds for Jared Allen. If we could i’d trade him. Draft players for the 0-line and D-line.
***
Agreed. well said dude
January 7th, 2009 at 11:17 am
Spikes is a playmaker and would be a great pick for us. MLB is a need
January 7th, 2009 at 11:18 am
Naw Aso for a 1st in 2009 and a 1st in 2010, people no way will a shutdown CB be sold for less, especially one ofthe top tier ones
January 7th, 2009 at 11:19 am
Someone would bite for 2 numbers 1’s for Nnamdi
January 7th, 2009 at 11:20 am
Alyssa Milano is engaged. Dammit!
January 7th, 2009 at 11:21 am
So what she is engaged she still will be -ucking on the side as most of them Hollywood broads do anyways
January 7th, 2009 at 11:21 am
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft
Mays is 29th on this board, can’t see us taking him at 7th.
Interestingly don’t see Spikes on the board, and I heard Kiper JR. say he would be the 1st LB taken. Mel, although arrogant, is usually pretty good at that stuff.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:22 am
Spikes,Rey and Laurinaitus are all highly rated players. I’d take Spikes because he is a playmaker but would be happy with any
January 7th, 2009 at 11:23 am
Tony Kornheiser has us taking DE Brian Orakpo at #7.
But he also has the Rams taking Crabtree at #2. LOL
January 7th, 2009 at 11:23 am
I actually dont want Cable back because I ahte ZBS. Pu$$ystyle of blocking to me. Power blocking is better.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:24 am
LOL who listenens to Korn-hole-heiser?
January 7th, 2009 at 11:26 am
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=fillingthenflheadcoachop&prov=tsn&type=lgns
How come the old man can’t hire as Chris Polian as the director of player personnel? Sheesh…
Harbaugh is the best choice out of that 3rd tier group of coaches, otherwise stick with Cable and hope Ryan does NOT stay!
January 7th, 2009 at 11:26 am
Dark………Al needs his puppets
January 7th, 2009 at 11:28 am
TOP 7 OL in the draft … Take any one of them and you have a successful Round 1
OT Andre Smith
OT Michael Oher
OT Eugene Monroe
OT Jason Smith
C/G Alex Mack
OT Eben Britton
G Duke Robinson
January 7th, 2009 at 11:30 am
Brien(Painting the Town) Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 11:23 am
I actually dont want Cable back because I ahte ZBS. Pu$$ystyle of blocking to me. Power blocking is better.
^ Don’t agree with that at all.
You can’t have a power scheme if you don’t have the personnel to run it. If they move to a power scheme than they need a whole new Center and RG, to go along with a new RT that is already a need. Do you have enough confidence in the old man to get rebuild the line in one off season and change to a whole new blocking scheme and offensive system and be succesful in one season? I sure as hell don’t…
We saw how much they failed under a one on one predictable offensive power scheme with Art Shell and it was the worst offense I have ever seen!
January 7th, 2009 at 11:34 am
Brien(Painting the Town) Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 11:19 am
Someone would bite for 2 numbers 1’s for Nnamdi
__________________________________
I don’t know about that. Since the inception of the franchise rule has any team ever given up two first round picks for a player? I think it might have happened once but I can’t remember.
anyone? anyone?
January 7th, 2009 at 11:34 am
I love how people just throw around all these big names in regards to the various positions that the Raiders are trying to fill. Get it into your heads: NOBODY WITH ANY CREDIBILITY WANTS TO COME HERE!!
January 7th, 2009 at 11:43 am
The only good strong coaching options are someone that can stand up to Al and get us in the playoffs. That’s why we should be looking at someone like Bill Walsh to run the offense and Tom Landry to run the defense. Al would listen to those guys.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:43 am
Hubbard, Fassel has no credibility?
January 7th, 2009 at 11:47 am
408RAIDER(GO SHARKS & FREE DIRTY!) Says:
January 6th, 2009 at 4:57 pm
“yep
dogg don’t troll…”
408 -
Good looking out bro, I appreciate it. I always crack up when I come in here to find someone has been pretending to be me for God knows how long. It’s good to know that some people still know the real me.
Sorry to hear about your dad by the way.
January 7th, 2009 at 11:53 am
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)
Ending a 20-year run as president, general manager and chief executive of the Chiefs, Carl Peterson delivered a 40-minute farewell speech on Tuesday to friends and staff.
The 64-year-old longtime pro football executive did say he has no plans to retire.
“I’m thinking about going away for a couple of weeks and relaxing,” he said.
“Perhaps my favorite stat is that his teams beat the Raiders 30 of the 41 times that we played,” Clark Hunt said.
***
Bill Parcells is staying in Miami, thus shutting the door on that possibility. Could Peterson join our front office?
January 7th, 2009 at 11:54 am
Boston College’s Jeff Jagodzinski met with Jets officials Tuesday to discuss the opening - an interview that was expected to cost him his job with the Eagles.
Jagodzinski, who became BC’s coach in 2007, was told by athletic director Gene DeFilippo that he would be fired if he met with the NFL team.
***
If the Jets pass on JJ for Head Coach, would Al Davis & the Raiders consider him?
January 7th, 2009 at 11:58 am
hello? anyone home?
January 7th, 2009 at 11:58 am
D
It’s going down tonight at the Oracle. The Lakeshow better not underestimate the W’s. Look the hell out!
By the way I am cracking up as I type this. I will feel sorry for you if the W’s find a way to win. Either way I will be wearing the goggles.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
I not anti-Fassel, but why doesn’t he have a job? Why does he have to use the media to lobby for a gig?
January 7th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Go dubs!!
January 7th, 2009 at 12:05 pm
BOSTON (AP) Boston College called a news conference Wednesday afternoon to discuss its football team and coach Jeff Jagodzinski, who has interviewed with the New York Jets.
Jagodzinski was warned by athletic director Gene DeFilippo his job would be in jeopardy if he interviewed with the Jets. Jagodzinski met with the NFL club Tuesday night.
The school said DeFilippo would be the only one meeting with reporters later Wednesday afternoon.
Jagodzinski has been BC’s coach for two seasons and has three years left on his five-year contract. DeFilippo has said he wants a coach who will stay at the school long term.
DeFilippo could replace Jagodzinski, 45, with defensive coordinator Frank Spaziani or assistant head coach Jack Bicknell Jr.
The BC job was Jagodzinski’s first as a head coach after 22 years as an assistant, 14 in college and eight in the NFL. After one season as offensive coordinator with the Green Bay Packers in 2006, Jagodzinski went to BC after Tom O’Brien left for North Carolina State.
In his two seasons, he led the Eagles to two Atlantic Coast Conference title games but lost both to Virginia Tech. They were 11-3 in his first season, when they rose as high as the No. 2 national ranking. They went 9-5 in 2008, winding up with a 16-14 loss to Vanderbilt in the Music City Bowl on Dec. 31 that snapped an eight-game bowl winning streak for the Eagles.
Jagodzinski (jay-guh-ZIN’-skee) upset DeFilippo when he didn’t tell his boss that he would interview with the Jets, who fired Eric Mangini the day after the team missed the playoffs despite an 8-3 start.
Jagodzinski was Jets quarterback Brett Favre’s offensive coordinator in Green Bay but is considered a long shot for the New York job. He also could be interested in an offensive coordinator’s position in the pros, which has few if any of the responsibilities of a college head coach - recruiting, meeting with alumni and supporters of the program, attending functions and participating in other off-field events.
Seattle needs to assemble a staff under new coach Jim Mora, and Jagodzinski has worked with Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck. Jagodzinski spent two years as BC’s offensive coordinator, starting in 1997 when Hasselbeck played there.
Jagodzinski also worked for Mora as an assistant with the Atlanta Falcons.
***
What about JJ as OC of the Raiders?
January 7th, 2009 at 12:07 pm
That’s what I’m talking about Vegas. Go Dubs!
I gotta be realistic though. The Lakers are the hottest team in the NBA and it would be sweet to snag a victory tonight, although somewhat unlikely.
I lost a bet to Dakota last year and my punishment was that I have to wear James Worthy goggles during games. Now I can’t watch a game without them, kind of like Rip Hamilton and his facemask.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
Hubbard,
I think Fassel wanted to show Al he respects the Raiders and would state that publicly. He probably doesn’t have a job because he is not willing to be a coordinator. Rumor has it he is interviewing, just not here (he could have interviewed with Al months ago for all we know).
January 7th, 2009 at 12:09 pm
This oline situation is the reason why Cable should be the frontruner for HC - None of those guys, with the exception of Cornell Green (who should be a back up in any system anyway) could play well in a man blocking scheme - Henderson, Carlisle, Grove, and Gallery are all weak (relatively speaking) - no way any of them can run block straight up consistenly. I’m still not sold on Gallery being anything more than a ‘good but not great’ guard and only this system. What a bust. At least he’s useful and you can tell he tries as hard as possible and he doesn’t make those same stupid mental pass blocking errors (as far as switching on interior stunts and blitz pickups in the protection schemes). I would still like to upgrade from Grove ASAP so we could run inside better, and carlisle is barely holding his own at this point, but Green at ROT is the clear need - even though I think he has performed great given his talent and that he was brought in to be a backup, we need to free up Zach Miller and Green is just getting old.
I desperatly want a #1 WR in round one, but if I were drafting this year, I would have a tough time passing on one of those OT’s - there’s five that are top 10 worthy, and three of them would fit well in the ZBS and two of them are also powerful enough to play in other systems. I feel comfortable enough that Henderson deserves a chance next year, and he’ll have another offseason to bulk up some more (he has done well in that regard since we drafted him) and continue to improve his technique. If we trade Nnamdi, we can get the center from Cal in round 1, a stud ROT, and a WR in round 2, although I’d rather pick up a good veteran WR this year and consider drafting a WR with next year’s #1 pick after we see how JLH, Schillens, Shields, and yes, Walker do next year - Walker’s cap hit is too big to cut him - we also have McFadden in the passing game, which I suspect will be a much bigger part of our offense, so with his presense I think we can get away with a void at #1 WR, not to mention Zach Miller. I think most of us agree are our biggest needs and must be fixed before we can become serious contenders, and having JLH, DMAC, and Miller, as well as speed with Chaz and Bush’s ability to catch out of the backfield gives us more than enough fire power on offense for the time being.
I know D line is a bigger priority than o line (10th in the league rushing offense vs. 31st in rushing defense), but we have a franchise QB that we have to protect, and as I mentioned, two potential pro-bowl RB’s, a pro-bowl caliber TE, a playmaker at WR in JLH, and one RB that can be flexed out as a WR but we take too many 1 and 2 yard gains in the run game and we can’t rely on the line to convert 3rd and shorts in the running game. Two of our best weapons, DMAC and Miller, are used to often to help block, and since the TE is usually lined up next to the ROT, and Mario Henderson has really come on as a pass blocker, that screams for us to go after a blue chip OT - Ideally one that can play R or L OT, so if Henderson slips we can move him over to the left side.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:09 pm
Dogg,
Those are KAREEM goggles…Worthy was just keeping the tradition alive.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
During the playoff run 2 years ago, I put my hair in a Matt Barnes mohawk. What was with those old Laker teams, Rambis , Kareem, Worthy, has any other team had so many bespeckled players?
Unfortunately the Lakers lost last night so they are going to play pissed. What a bummer this year turned into, at least the Cal Bears are playing good
January 7th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
I have a sinking feeling that the Raiders will be drafting USC Safety Taylor Mays in the 1st round. You know how Al rolls. Not that Mays isn’t an excellent player…
Al collects DB’s like Gruden collects QB’s.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:13 pm
Raiderrockstar said:
Bill Parcells is staying in Miami, thus shutting the door on that possibility. Could Peterson join our front office?
and again…
If the Jets pass on JJ (BC’s Jeff Jagodzinkski) for Head Coach, would Al Davis & the Raiders consider him?
=======================================================
Nnamdi21 says:
This the equivalent of throwing sh*t against the wall and seeing if it sticks.
Neither is on the Raidar. (Coined it, the term is MINE!!!)
Until they are, can’t be concerned about their merits or lack there of.
If forced to speculate, I’d say Cable’s coming back. The ZBS has been a rousing success and showed signs of life late.
To ditch and start over wouldn’t make sense (but w/ Oakland that doesn’t seem to stop them sometimes…) since you want a strong run game to help Russell.
Oaklands D is predicated on the Offense working. They’re built to defend the pass when teams have to play catch up.
If the O don’t go, the whole things shot as we’ve seen the last 6 years…
January 7th, 2009 at 12:14 pm
BSJ
I stand corrected. I have a nice baby hook that will compliment my Kareem goggles well.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
if Henderson slips we can move him over to the left side.
***
huh? LT is much harder to play and much more important in any system. He’s protecting the QB’s blind side. If you can’t cut it at LT, they move you to RT - like Harris in San Fran and Gallery in Oakland. That’s just the way it works …
January 7th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Jedi:
You said, “Too often DMAC and Miller are used to often to help block.”
Kinda had too when we lost BOTH starting FBs…
January 7th, 2009 at 12:16 pm
RaiderRockstar Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
if Henderson slips we can move him over to the left side.
***
huh? LT is much harder to play and much more important in any system. He’s protecting the QB’s blind side. If you can’t cut it at LT, they move you to RT - like Harris in San Fran and Gallery in Oakland. That’s just the way it works …
=====================================================
Henderson plays LEFT side already.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
I’m out for the day
Have a good afternoon Nation.
Go Dubs!
Dakota -
I may come back here tonight during the game, hope to see you around.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:18 pm
Hello…..Nation.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Dogg,
So what was Dakota perpared to do if he lost? I would have suggested he wear Harry Caray glasses to the Sturgis rally. LOL
January 7th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
This the equivalent of throwing poop against the wall and seeing if it sticks
and again …
“If forced to speculate”
***
N21:
Funny. earlier in this post you were talking about drafting a punter in Round 1. Don’t act like you’re better than everyone else, you arrogant hypocritical turd.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:21 pm
No need to draft a punter at all , let alone in round 1.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:21 pm
Henderson plays LEFT side already.
***
I know. Maybe you should tell Jedi that.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:23 pm
Bo Schembechler Jackson Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
“Dogg,
So what was Dakota perpared to do if he lost? I would have suggested he wear Harry Caray glasses to the Sturgis rally. LOL”
LOL, I like that Harry Carey idea, Dakota would rock those with pride I am sure.
His punsihment was that he would have to wear that very special, bright gold Baron Davis shirt that has a picture of BD and underneathe it says “The Beard”.
OK now I am out for real, thanks for the laugh BSJ.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
Darrius Heyward-Bey #8 WR
2008 STATS
RECEPTIONS YARDS TOUCHDOWNS
42 609 5
CAREER STATS
RECEPTIONS YDS TOUCHDOWNS
138 2,089 13
He is entering the draft , looks interesting also.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
The dude flamed out in Baltimore and needs a job. So, it’s last resort time (i.e. Rams, Raiders) It’s desperation. What I was referring to is when people ask, “Why isn’t Al interviewing Pioli?”, “Why can’t we get Parcells” “What about Cowher?” These people aren’t going to come here and work for some maniac. These are people in demand. And, people in demand aren’t desperate, like Fassel.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
I just don’t buy into this whole dying need for a LT.
Quick who are the LT’s for Philly, Giants and Ravens? I don’t know off the top of my head, yet those teams seem to be doing OK. We bought into the top LT prospect with Gallery and the Jets did with D’Brickshaw. Didn’t work out so well, at least for the investment.
Look, we are not making a run for the Super Bowl next year, and LT or RT is not our only hole, we have plenty. We have time to see if Mario will pan out, and early returns says he will and at a cheap price potentially, and if not, than we will have another opportunity to draft a LT. There will be other “can’t miss LT’s” trust me. Can’t just say “well we can move him to RT”, because we would have the highest paid RT in the league, and they are nowhere near as important.
We need a difference maker with the 7th pick, love to trade down but have to live in reality here, on offense or defense. LT’s just aren’t difference makers. Anthony Munoz and Orlando Pace are HOF’s, but there teams stunk more often than not.
Chew on that folks, I got to go back to work.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
# 281 has a point , but in my opinion sooner or later someone will want to prove themselves by taking on the challenge.
I know … wishful thinking.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
vegas raider Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
I just don’t buy into this whole dying need for a LT.
Quick who are the LT’s for Philly, Giants and Ravens? I don’t know off the top of my head, yet those teams seem to be doing OK. We bought into the top LT prospect with Gallery and the Jets did with D’Brickshaw. Didn’t work out so well, at least for the investment.
Look, we are not making a run for the Super Bowl next year, and LT or RT is not our only hole, we have plenty. We have time to see if Mario will pan out, and early returns says he will and at a cheap price potentially, and if not, than we will have another opportunity to draft a LT. There will be other “can’t miss LT’s” trust me. Can’t just say “well we can move him to RT”, because we would have the highest paid RT in the league, and they are nowhere near as important.
We need a difference maker with the 7th pick, love to trade down but have to live in reality here, on offense or defense. LT’s just aren’t difference makers. Anthony Munoz and Orlando Pace are HOF’s, but there teams stunk more often than not.
Chew on that folks, I got to go back to work.
_________________________________________________
I just want to beat everyteam in our division twice next season , not looking for the Superbowl until 2nd season.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
CARL PETERSON LEAVING THE CHIEF’S IS A BAD THING. HE SUCK’S. WE NEED HIM THERE. LIKE MARTY BALL, NEVER WON JACK…..
January 7th, 2009 at 12:39 pm
Guaranteed 8 wins.
Just beat our division twice.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
-Gannon for HC or OC
-WR with 1st pick
-Chris Johnson is a starter
-Cable staying is fine
-Michael Bush should start, with McFadden as change of pace, and Fargas coming off the bench
-I hope Kirk Morrison is OK with being a very good SLB, cuz we need a veteran bruising MLB
-Fire Rob Ryan!!
January 7th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Vegas,
The reason the OTs are so important for us is that we have a young QB who is not very mobile and can’t audible. If we can’t give him time to pass our offense is doomed.
The teams you cited (minus Ravens) already have a more accomplished line and QBs who can audible and adjust when blitzed. Everyone knows you can blitz a young QB and likely put him off his game. Moreover, we need to free up Miller and DMAC from their pass blocking responsibilities.
We need at least ONE good tackle in the first two rounds, and hopefully 2 more potential starters through FA or the later draft rounds. We already have enough “difference makers” on offense. Without a better line, even TO would make little “difference” offensively (see Moss debacle).
January 7th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
vegas raider Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
I just don’t buy into this whole dying need for a LT.
Quick who are the LT’s for Philly, Giants and Ravens? I don’t know off the top of my head, yet those teams seem to be doing OK. We bought into the top LT prospect with Gallery and the Jets did with D’Brickshaw. Didn’t work out so well, at least for the investment.
Look, we are not making a run for the Super Bowl next year, and LT or RT is not our only hole, we have plenty. We have time to see if Mario will pan out, and early returns says he will and at a cheap price potentially, and if not, than we will have another opportunity to draft a LT. There will be other “can’t miss LT’s” trust me. Can’t just say “well we can move him to RT”, because we would have the highest paid RT in the league, and they are nowhere near as important.
We need a difference maker with the 7th pick, love to trade down but have to live in reality here, on offense or defense. LT’s just aren’t difference makers. Anthony Munoz and Orlando Pace are HOF’s, but there teams stunk more often than not.
Chew on that folks, I got to go back to work.
^Our line needs to get stronger and more depth is needed no matter which way you want to look at it. Mario can play LT and Oher and Monroe are probably better suited as RT’s anyway due to their strength. Cornell Green is a backup at best.
You can’t tell me there will be a better RT who can start right away like Oher and Monroe could that we can get in Round 2 that can play in the ZBS scheme and in a power scheme?
January 7th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
You’re saying that like it’s easy. Even the best teams have trouble beating the same teams twice in one year.
====================
RaiderRod Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 12:39 pm
Guaranteed 8 wins.
Just beat our division twice.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:53 pm
Not saying it’s easy , but it’s been non-existent for years.too long.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:54 pm
287: If anything, Gannon should start as a QB coach only. Even then he may bomb. Smart, intense players like Gannon often cannot inspire or even relate to kids who don’t have that innate drive to succeed (i.e. Larry Bird).
January 7th, 2009 at 12:56 pm
RaiderRod Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
Darrius Heyward-Bey #8 WR
2008 STATS
RECEPTIONS YARDS TOUCHDOWNS
42 609 5
CAREER STATS
RECEPTIONS YDS TOUCHDOWNS
138 2,089 13
He is entering the draft , looks interesting also.
————————————————–
Also been timed in the low 4.2s and could run the fastest time at the combine this year.. Al may already be in love with him..
January 7th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
vegas raider Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
I just don’t buy into this whole dying need for a LT.
Quick who are the LT’s for Philly, Giants and Ravens? I don’t know off the top of my head, yet those teams seem to be doing OK. We bought into the top LT prospect with Gallery and the Jets did with D’Brickshaw. Didn’t work out so well, at least for the investment.
……………..
U want to rebuild u start with an LT. Look at Cleveland takin Thomas then having a gd season in 07, Miami this season and Atlanta both took LT’s in the first round this year and look at them.
January 7th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
i.e. Don Mattingly
January 7th, 2009 at 12:59 pm
SacRaider , he is small though like 6′ 2″ 210 .
January 7th, 2009 at 12:59 pm
i.e. Magic Johnson
January 7th, 2009 at 12:59 pm
there must be some red flags with Henderson. We traded up to get him and everyone thought he was a reach in round 3. Kiffin & Cable both had reservations about him. Sims beat him out last year and Harris beat him out this year. The 2 false start kings. Cornell Green on the other side was a false start expert as well. When he got hurt last year it was Paul McQuistan to sub in, not Henderson. Kiffin was critical. Cable gave him praise, then sat him back on the bench saying he needed way to much help and still had much to work on. 3-5 starts without any glaring weakness in pass protection is good work, but how will he hold out for an entire NFL season? and what if he gets hurt? What if we scrap the zbs? He’s not motivated in practice. In camp & practice, even Greg Spires was tossing him like a rag doll. I think he’s proved he deserves a shot, but NEVER do you pass on a OT, when it’s clearly your biggest need. We’ve done that the past 2 seasons and it hasn’t worked out very well.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
Gotta run fellas , see ya in the PM
January 7th, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Do we have a coach yet?
Is the combine here yet?
Waiting sucks.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Henderson was a late bloomer in college aswell didnt start at LT till his last season he just takes times but looks like he might have arrived. I have reservations aswell we should still go LT in the first round and move him to RT if he can play there.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Quick who are the LT’s for Philly, Giants and Ravens?
***
Eagles starting tackles -
Jon Runyan & Tra Thomas
Giants starting tackles -
Kareem McKenzie & David Diehl
Ravens starting tackles -
Jared Gaither & Willie Anderson
those are all quality starter NFL tackles. that was a bad point or example he was trying to make
January 7th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
RaiderRod Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 12:59 pm
SacRaider , he is small though like 6′ 2″ 210 .
—————————————————-
6′2″ 210 isn’t that small for a guy who runs 4.2.. Moss was just an anomoly..
January 7th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
There’s an interesting piece on Oher and how he might have problems against speed rushers on ESPN’s website.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:11 pm
If OT is such an easy position to fill, and pass up on in the draft, then there wouldn’t have been 7 taken in the first round last year. More than any other position. A good pair of tackles make your offense run. If your QB gets time, he can find the open guy. If your line creates big holes, any RB can run thru them. It all starts up front.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Sorry, Andre Smith, not Oher.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
I think the only red flags for Henderson were due to him being very raw. He only started one season at FSU and then gets tossed into a ZBS as a rook. Hopefully the coaches knew he was a work in progress and his late season play shows he is developing as hoped.
What I would like to know is which Raiders scout recommended him to Al. It would be VERY interesting to match up our scouts and the unsung players they were responsible for us drafting.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
“You can’t tell me there will be a better RT who can start right away like Oher and Monroe could that we can get in Round 2 that can play in the ZBS scheme and in a power scheme?”
**************
Darkknight,
Oher and Monroe both play LT, and a switch to RT would take a little time. Why is unconceivable to think a true RT taken in the 2nd or 3rd won’t be a stud, and also cost about a tenth the price.
Fact is guys, our O-line last year played better as a group than our:
D-line, WR’s, safeties, and maybe even LB’s. Center and depth need to be addressed, but one guy with a $30 million dollar price tag isn’t going to do it.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:13 pm
Henderson’s big knock is his intensity. Coaches love high-motor, big intensity guys; and Kiffin/Cable are no exceptions, I think their public thrashings of Henderson were attempts to motivate him. But despite whatever heart he may lack, the kid can play, and always steps up his game to match the level of his opponent. I dont think the coaches will ever like Henderson, and it may take a full-year starting before they even trust him.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
#302:
Willie Anderson, while a former Pro-Bowler, was picked up off the scrap heap and any team could have picked him up. None of those other guys are consistent Pro-Bowlers. Of course you need quality NFL starters there, you need them AT EVERY POSITION if you are going to be one of the best teams. I think Mario can be a quality NFL starter, he certainly played like one when he got the chance.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
The only thing I don’t like about football.
==================
Dakota Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Do we have a coach yet?
Is the combine here yet?
Waiting sucks.
January 7th, 2009 at 1:20 pm
# RaiderRockstar Says:
January 7th, 2009 at 12:21 pm
Henderson plays LEFT side already.
***
I know. Maybe you should tell Jedi that.
__________________________________________________
RRS,
well if you addressed those comments you are commenting on..
if one just reads your post, and haven’t read the ENTIRE post you are referring to with your LONE sentence, then its an honest mistake to make..
thats why I dont refer to post # or just out of the blue.. I dont say you should do what I do,Im just saying you would clear a lot of mus-ups by doing it a different way than you do now..
January 7th, 2009 at 1:24 pm
Dakota,
See 275. Would you roll with the coke bottles at the Sturgis rally? “All right! Lemme hear ya! Ah-One! Ah-Two! Ah-Three…”
January 7th, 2009 at 1:25 pm
—”The Seahawks’ next offensive coordinator will be Greg Knapp, according to NFL.com’s Adam Schefter. Knapp is coming from Oakland, where he began the season as playcaller. He will keep Seattle’s West Coast offense intact, so Matt Hasselbeck won’t have to learn new terminology. Knapp has also used zone blocking in both Atlanta and Oakland. While upgrades are possible, Julius Jones and T.J. Duckett are expected to form a “1-2″ punch in Seattle for now. The scheme has been mostly successful no matter the location, so Jones could benefit.”—
January 7th, 2009 at 1:35 pm
new post, but LMN already broke the story!
January 7th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
#305:
Of the 7 first-round picks last year, one never played (Chris Williams), 1 flopped (Cherilus), and the best one was taken 19th (Otah). Zero were taken in the 2nd round, I think it was a big over-exaggeration by teams because of the success the Browns had the year before with Joe Thomas.
Hey if they take a tackle, and he pans out it will definately help the team and I’m all for it. But when we have the worst 3rd LB in the league, a sieve like Defensive Line, and than a young potentially promising LT already on the roster, makes sense to me to maybe look elsewhere with the 7th pick, and focus on depth issues for the O-line later. In a perfect world, AL would trade down and than we would have more options, but that’s not happening.
January 7th, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Hello again….
I feel like we can be like the Lions , no where to go but up.
No way we can get any worse right?
January 7th, 2009 at 4:08 pm
Darkknight,
Oher and Monroe both play LT, and a switch to RT would take a little time. Why is unconceivable to think a true RT taken in the 2nd or 3rd won’t be a stud, and also cost about a tenth the price.
Fact is guys, our O-line last year played better as a group than our:
D-line, WR’s, safeties, and maybe even LB’s. Center and depth need to be addressed, but one guy with a $30 million dollar price tag isn’t going to do it.
^ So you would rather pay big money with the #7 pick on a safety or reach for a DT who is not graded within the top ten and pay them big money? Not me. I can see maybe Everett Brown who is a pass rushing DE or Brandon Spikes or Rey ahead of DT, or a safety.
I have heard that both Oher and Monroe can play RT in the NFL and it won’t that much of an adjustment just as long as they OTA’s and the enitire training camp to get reps. I believe Oher started out as an RT at Ole Miss.
January 7th, 2009 at 8:47 pm
LMN / nnamdi 21 - Henderson is too small to play RT - RT’s are usually bigger maulers since they are on the strong side with the TE - My point was that if Henderson can’t cut it, our draft pick can just stay at RT -
May 27th, 2009 at 10:14 pm
Just wondering why you said James Marten came from the Cowboys practice squad? He has never been on a practice squad he was drafted by the Cowboys in the 3rd round 67th overall. Anyway just wanted to clear that up. Hope the Raider’s do awesome next year and hope they keep Cable I think he can really help the team!