Silver and Black Forever

Welcome Aboard Dennis Allen

2012-01-24T18:53:00.000-08:00

The Raiders organization made the second bold step today in the new era with the hiring of Dennis Allen as the Head Coach. The last time the Raiders hired a defensive minded head coach was John Madden in 1969 … 43 years ago!

Dennis Allen’s Career Path:
1996-1999 - Texas A&M University (Graduate Assistant Coach)
2000-2001 - Tulsa University (Secondary Coach)
2002-2005 - Atlanta Falcons (Defensive Asst./Quality Control Coach)
2006-2007 - New Orleans Saints (Asst. Defensive Line Coach)
2008-2010 - New Orleans Saints (Secondary Coach)
2011-2012 - Denver Broncos (Defensive Coordinator)
2012-Pres - Oakland Raiders (Head Coach)

A 48 year old GM and 39 year old HC ... fresh ideas for a minty fresh feeling! I'm excited to learn more about Allen and look forward to the re-constructed coaching staff being assembled in earnest.

We've got our 2 most important leaders in place ready to roll up their sleeves and get busy restoring the greatness of the Raiders. Onwards and Upwards!

A New Raiders Era Officially Begins Today!

2012-01-06T16:29:00.000-08:00

When Al Davis passed away in October of 2011, the Raiders embarked on the beginning stages of a new era. The organization's transitional phase during the regular season was bumpy with a vacuum in the front office in terms of a leading football executive. From the average Raider fan's perspective and in spite of speculation, there was uncertainty on how (and when) the new era's plan would be executed. A mere 4 days after the completion of the season the lead candidate, Reggie Mckenzie, was interviewed for the role of Raiders GM. 2 days after interviewing, McKenzie was hired effective immediately. The decisive action taken by Mark Davis in securing McKenzie to become the key leader of the front office is remarkable and praise worthy.

There are many interesting associations between the key people involved with this important hire and possible new additions to the franchise as a new chapter in Raider football truly begins.

Reggie McKenzie: Former Raider player and Director of Football Operations at Green Bay.

Al Davis: Drafted McKenzie in 1985 to play LB for the Los Angeles Raiders. Al's son (Mark), current owner, interviewed McKenzie on Wednesday based on the recommendation of Ron Wolf and Ken Herock.

John Madden: Hired by Al Davis as the Raiders Head Coach. By the pre-planned request of Al Davis, acted as a consultant to Mark Davis. Madden and Mark Davis interviewed McKenzie.

Ron Wolf: Former Raiders and Green Bay executive who highly recommended McKenzie to Mark Davis. Ron's son (Eliot) was hired by Reggie McKenzie at Green Bay as the Assistant Director of Player Personnel. Eliot Wolf is rumored to be rejoining McKenzie with the Raiders in some executive capacity.

Ken Herock: Former Raiders player who followed Ron Wolf to the expansion Tampa Bay Bucs as Director of Player Personnel and endorsed McKenzie to be GM of the Raiders. One of Ken's sons (Shaun) is currently the Assistant Director of Scouting at Green Bay.

Winston Moss: Former Raider player and current LB Coach at Green Bay. Rumored to be joining the Raiders coaching staff as either Head Coach or Defensive Coordinator.

Darren Perry: Former Raider DB Coach and current Safeties Coach at Green Bay. It is rumored that Perry will be joining the Raiders coaching staff in some capacity.

The father-son dynamic and the Raiders-Packers connections are quite unique.

Al Davis/Mark Davis; Ron Wolf (Raiders/Packers)/Eliot Wolf (Packers); Ken Herock (Raiders)/Shaun Herock (Packers)

The hiring of Reggie McKenzie as the Raiders General Manager is a breath of fresh air for some tired lungs. I have tremendous respect and admiration for Al Davis but over the past few years, I desperately wanted a traditional GM to steer the organization into the 21st century. McKenzie has been groomed the past 18 years with the Green Bay Packers front office as a Director of Football Operations.

This quote from McKenzie's former boss bodes well for a bright, new future;

"I would like to thank Reggie McKenzie for all that he has done for the Green Bay Packers over the last 18 years," Green Bay general manager Ted Thompson said in a statement. "Reggie is a tremendous talent, but more importantly, he is a good friend and great family man. His contributions to our organization are numerous and he is ready for the opportunity to be a general manager in the National Football League. It's been a privilege to work with Reggie, he is a good man."

Lastly, I suppose the big elephant in the room is the status of Hue Jackson. With McKenzie on board and the transition of the organizational overhaul in the infancy stages, it would seem to be a 50/50 proposition on whether Jackson stays or goes. On the one hand, I like Hue's aggressive nature and offensive mind. There is no question that the Raiders offense has elite capabilities under Jackson's leadership. An argument can be made that as a rookie Head Coach, Jackson is learning on the job and had too much on his plate with the passing of Davis. On the other hand, the Raiders record setting # of penalties and 1-4 finish should be blamed to the man leading the coaching staff, Jackson.

The 2 possible outcomes of McKenzie coming on board are:

(1) Retain Jackson to keep stability at Head Coach but put him on a short leash. Based on the performance of the team in 2012 will dictate Jackson's future with the Raiders beyond 2012.

(2) Show Jackson the door under the purview of the GM and put his stamp on the organizational overhaul. I'm quite certain that McKenzie already has a short list of potential candidate from his 18 years in the league as a high ranking executive.

Sour Ending to 2011 Season

2012-01-03T18:59:00.001-08:00

Raiders 26 - Chargers 38

The Raiders season ended with disappointment, unfulfilled expectations, and on a sour note at the hands of the Chargers. With a playoff berth and AFC West Divisional title on the line, the game started brightly. In front of the 8th consecutive sell-out crowd at O.com, Safety Giordano picked off Philip Rivers on the opening possession on the 5 yard line. The Raiders offensive unit promptly and efficiently marched 95 yards culminating in a Palmer to DHB TD in the corner of the end zone.

With the fans jacked up, an early 7-0 lead, the air was let out of the balloon by a porous Raiders D. For the rest of the entire game, the Raiders defense kept the Chargers punter parked on the bench idle. The fact that the opponent's punter didn't have 1 single attempt in a 60:00 minute game, is a colossal failure. In essence, the Raiders D failed to make a single drive stopping play in nearly 53 minutes of the remaining action and the Chargers final 7 possessions.

The defensive ineptitude demonstrated in this game wasn't anything new for the 2011 Raiders. After the win over the Bears, the Raiders were 7-4 and in control of the AFC West. The Raiders laid an egg by going 1-4 in the remaining 5 games. In the 4 losses, the opponent averaged 38 points (34 to Mia; 46 to GBay; 28 to Det; and 38 to SD). The Raiders finished the season as the #29 ranked defense in points allowed (27.1).

The Chargers were able to ring up 38 points, 25 first downs, and 463 total yards very easily. The Raiders defense was unable to pressure Rivers through the front 4 or by blitzing. Rivers wasn't sacked and was hit only 1 time the entire game. On the back end, the Raiders pass coverage was atrocious. Blown coverages, bad schemes (Wimbley covering Gates; McClain on Jackson), and an inability to make a game changing defensive play was on full display.

In spite of the poor defensive performance throughout the game, the unit still had a golden opportunity to FINALLY make 1 important stop mid way through the fourth quarter. With the Raiders closing the gap to 26-31 on a TD pass to Boss and more than 9:00 left in the game, the Raiders D had the Chargers backed up on the 1/2 yard line. With a Chargers defender drawing a 15 yard personal foul on Boss in the end zone, SeaBass kicked off from the 50 and popped it up near the goal line. The Charger return man (Goodman) struggled to avoid a safety and barely crossed the end line.

Just like the beginning of the game, the crowd was pumped up in anticipation of an opportunity to turn the tide. The Chargers offense ended the season and all hope by marching 99 yards to paydirt. This 99 yard drive was very similar and equally disturbing as the Lions game winning drive at the end of the game from the 2 yard line. Instead of the defensive leaders of the Raiders rising up to a game defining challenge, it came up small and broken.

Judging from Hue Jackson's "pissed off" comments in the post-game press conference, this bitter ending to a season that had so much promise will be the cause for big changes in 2012. It is very evident that the defense needs to be overhauled from top to bottom. A proven Defensive Coordinator with strong leadership and a clear vision on how to get the defensive ship off the rocks is paramount.

Raiders Keep Hope Alive!

2011-12-26T11:35:00.000-08:00

Raiders 16 - Chiefs 13 (OT)

In many respects, the Raiders and Chiefs were mirror images in this Christmas Eve battle in Kansas City. Both teams had a conservative game plan, stubbornly attempted to establish the run, played good overall defense, created 2 INTs, and sloppily combined for 26 penalties. Both team's offensive units struggled on 3rd down conversions (Oak 3-11; KC 3-12) and in the red zone (Oak 0-3; KC 1-4). In the end, the Raiders made enough game altering, game saving and game winning plays to tip the balance in the Silver and Black's favor.

The 1st half was ugly football by both clubs. The Raiders failed to capitalize on an opening kickoff return of 91 yards by McCann coming away with only a FG. QB Palmer threw 2 INTs. His counter part, QB Orton moved the Chiefs into the red zone in the 2nd Quarter only to throw an INT that S Giordano returned for 61 yards. 3 plays later, Palmer gave the ball right back to KC. Throughout the 1st half it was a flag fest. It seemed fitting that to end the half, both teams went into the locker room at 3-3 when DT Bryant blocked a 49 yard FG attempt.

On the Raiders 1st possession of the 2nd half, the offensive unit patiently moved the ball down the field with a series of runs and short passes. This set up and caught KC off guard when Palmer connected to WR Moore for a 61 yard bomb TD. Palmer's beautiful touch and arc on the pass hit Moore perfectly in stride to put the Raiders in the lead at 10-3. KC answered late in game on a TD scoring drive built on a 49 yard screen play to RB McCluster. A quick 3 and out by the Raiders offense gave the Chiefs the ball back with a mere :16 on the clock on their own 33 yard line. A 25 yard completion to Bowe put the Chiefs in FG kicking range. Attempting a 49 yard FG, K Succop's attempt was blocked by DT Seymour.

From the possibility of winning in regulation to possibly losing to reaching overtime in a game with playoff implications on the line, this game wasn't for the faint of heart. After winning the coin toss, the Raiders went for the jugglar vein on the 1st play in OT. Using a nicely designed play that was set up by earlier plays in the game, Palmer hit DHB with a deep 53 yard strike to KC's 23 yard line. This was a play action pass where Palmer faked the hand-off to Bush with WR Moore circling back into the backfield on an end run action. This play action fake gave Palmer enough time to allow the play to develop and DHB to get down the field. SeaBass 36 yard game winning FG keeps hope alive in the Nation.

Up Next: San Diego (7-8) visits Oakland (8-7) on New Year's Day. This bitter rivalry game with a possible playoff berth in the balance should be a real cracker.

Disconnect Vs. Connect

2011-12-19T20:56:00.001-08:00

Raiders 27 – Lions 28

The Lions come from behind victory over the Raiders was a real sucker punch to the gut. In spite of dynamic plays made by all 3 Raiders units and a 13 point lead late in the game, the Raiders failed to do what is required to close out an opponent.

Carson Palmer was highly accurate and efficient (32/40, 367 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT) but wishes he had 2 throws back. The Raiders D made the Lions 1 dimensional, got a big fourth down stop, and caused a sack/fumble recovery TD but failed to adequately contain WR Johnson. Playing good D for 3.5 quarters isn’t enough.

4 plays in particular yesterday, 2 by the Raiders QB-WR and 2 by the Lions QB-WR, were pivotal in the outcome of the game. The Lions made 2 critical connections and the Raiders came up short on 2 game altering disconnections.

Play #1 - Disconnect (Raiders)

Context: Raiders on their opening drive of the game move the ball from their own 31 yard line to Detroit’s 24 yard line. Facing a 4 and 1, Hue Jackson decides to go for the first down instead of kicking a FG.

Play: Palmer executed a perfect play action pass and had WR Moore wide open in the end zone. However, Palmer’s throw over-shot his mark and the Raiders came away with 0 points.

Comment: Hue Jackson was aggressive and the playcall itself was equally gutsy. However, coming away with zero points at this early stage of the game was a set-back. In a game decided by 1 point, a FG here was the difference in a victory or a loss. On the play, the Lions defender clearly held Moore on 2 separate occasions but the Zebras didn’t call the interference.

Play #2 - Connect (Lions)

Context: Raiders up 7-0 in the 1st quarter. Lions on offense.

Play: Stafford to Johnson for a 51 yard TD pass.

Comment: Allowing Megatron to run clear, over the top, is the fault of Safety Mike Mitchell. MM had deep safety responsibilities but showed a lack of positional awareness. This Lion’s TD drive equaled the score immediately following the Raiders TD drive.

Play #3 - Disconnect (Raiders)

Context: Raiders up 27-21 late in the fourth quarter (approx. 2:30 left in the game).

Play: Facing a third and 3 from Detroit’s 48 yard line, Palmer misses WR Schilens hands by inches on an intermediate slant and go route down the right sideline.

Comment: A successful conversion of this play would in effect ice the game. RB Michael Bush had been rolling on this drive with runs of 12 yards, 15 yards, and 5 yards. Running the ball to pick up 3+ yards would seem to be the prudent playcall. Even if Bush ran it for 2 yards, the clock would run down to the 2:00 warning and take precious time off the clock. If the mindset is to pass on this play to finish the Lions off, why not run a shorter, safer route?

Play #4 - Connect (Lions)

Context: Raiders up 27-21 with 2:12 remaining in the game and the Lions starting at their own 2 yard line.

Play: On the fifth play of the drive from their own 39 yard line, Stafford connects on a deep seam route to Johnson for a 48 yard completion taking the Lions to the Raiders 13 yard line.

Comment: In a situation where the Lions needed a 98 yard TD drive to win late in the game, the pass coverage scheme on this play was embarrassing. The Raiders attempted to cover arguably the best WR in the NFL using MLB McClain and a 3rd string safety (Boyd) in bracket coverage. How DC Breshnahan deployed the secondary was nothing short of negligence.

Up Next: Oakland visits KC (6-8) on Christmas Eve.

Cheese Whiz

2011-12-12T19:24:00.000-08:00

Raiders 16 - Packers 46

The Raiders desperately need to get back on track quickly if there is any chance to gain a berth to the 2011 playoffs. Squished by the Fish. Cheese Whizzed by the Pack. In back to back blowout losses, the Raiders D has given up 80 points. With McFadden, Ford, and Moore injured, the team has lacked the type of explosive players and firepower to win in a shoot out.

It might sound boring and rather cliche but it is imperative that the Raiders get back to basic, sound Football 101 to create a window of opportunity to win. The competitive imbalance in the last 2 games is a direct result of poor ball security, a lack of discipline, and a porous run defense. In the 2 games combined, the Raiders have turned the ball over 6 times, had 21 penalties, and given up 345 yards of rushing.

The slow starts in the 1st half, an accumulation of injuries, and sloppy execution has led to a team that has clearly lost it's swagger and spirit.

Up Next: Detroit Lions (8-5) visit O.co Coliseum in a "do or die!" game for the Raiders (7-6). T0 flip the switch from bleak to belief, it will be critical for the Raiders to get off to a FAST start against the Lions to get the fans behind them, play with the lead, and boost the confidence of the team.

Fish Squish Raiders

2011-12-05T21:30:00.001-08:00

Raiders 14 - Dolphins 34

Plain and simple ... the Raiders got completely manhandled and dominated by the Dolphins in the trenches on both sides of the ball. In a crucial contest to maintain a slim 1 game lead margin over the rollin' Broncos, the Raiders got punked by a very good team playing for pride.

The Raiders defensive front 7 did a very poor job of shedding blockers, penetrating the line of scrimmage, and plugging up holes. The time of possession stat illustrates how Miami controlled the game with a 38:20 to 21:40 margin. This margin was achieved by a Dolphins team that ran the ball 44 times for 209 yards and had a 4.8 average yard per carry. 44 times right down our throat with no answer.

Whenever a team runs the ball effectively this many times, it is a clear case of exerting their will. The fact that the Raiders D was unable to get consistent QB pressure, create any turnovers, and continually shot itself in the foot with inopportune penalties made this game tailor made for a blowout.

The offensive unit was flat, listless, and did a poor job executing. There were countless dropped balls, poor pass protection, and an anemic rushing attack. In a critical game to help secure a playoff spot, the Raiders offensive unit lacked a creative, big play spark.

Simple pass and catch and move the chains type plays were bumbled or the protection broke down. It wasn't until it was a lost cause, down by 34-0, that the unit got in synch. The Raiders OLine had by far the worst performance of this season. 46 total yards rushing is a direct reflection of an OLine who lost the all important man to man battles at the line of scrimmage. Playing from behind and unable to establish the running game, the Raiders became 1 dimensional and far easier to contain.

The Raiders have a difficult task ahead of them in order to reach their goal of winning the AFC West. As I've said countless times, the 2011 Raiders have been a very resilient group. All 4 games pose unique challenges regardless of injuries, weather conditions, opponent, or divisional standings.

Up Next: The reigning Super Bowl Champs and undefeated 12-0 Packers.

I love the fact that everyone is writing off the Raiders, the Raiders chances to defeat the vaunted Pack on the road, are handing the Donkeys the divisional crown, and Te-Blow the MVP. The Raiders have a legitimate shot to "shock the world" and be the 1st team to beat the Pack, if and only if, the running game is the center piece of the game plan. The fact is that the Packers rush D is horrendous (ranked #29 at 4.9 yards per carry).

If you want to dictate tempo, control the clock, keep Rodgers off the field, establishing the run for 4 quarters is the only hope for coming out on top. Even if the Raiders fall short of a "W", it is paramount to put together a solid, sound performance to build towards the remaining 3 games of the season. The stark reality is that if the Raiders lose to the Pack, ripping off 3 consecutive wins to finish the season vs. Detroit, at KC, vs. SD might be required to punch their ticket to the playoff party.

Golden Boots

2011-11-28T18:01:00.001-08:00

Raiders 25 - Da Bears 20

The Raiders 2 longest tenured players, Sebastian Janikowski and Shane Lechler, booted the team into the win column on Sunday.

SeaBass and Lechler, both drafted in 2000, came up big in a game where the Raiders struggled in the red zone (1-5) and field position was critical.

The offensive unit made just enough explosive plays (Bush-47 yard reception; Myers-24 yard reception; Murphy-47 yard reception) to put up enough points while the D kept the Bears at bay by creating 3 INTs and consistent pressure on Hanie (4 sacks; 6 pressures; 7 QB hits). The final piece to a total team effort and win was an outstanding day for the specials teams led by SeaBass and Lechler.

SeaBass set a franchise record with 6 FGs (40,47,42,19,37,44). For the season, SeaBass is 22 of 24 (91.7 accuracy) and ranked #6 in the league. His 22 made FGs is ranked #5 in the NFL.

Lechler had a franchise record 80 yard punt in the 4th quarter (video link) and had a net average of 49.2 yards for the game. Currently, Lechler is the #1 punter with an average of 51.5 yards per punt and #7 in the league averaging 40.4 net.

These 2 grizzled veterans are a tremendous advantage in the kicking game and the best combination in the entire NFL.

Up Next: On the road at Miami

Victory vs. Vikes - Good, Bad, and Ugly

2011-11-21T18:25:00.000-08:00

Raiders 27 - Vikings 21

The game yesterday had an odd ebb and flow to it. After surrendering an early 7-0 lead to the Vikings, the Raiders scored 27 unanswered points. It seemed like the Vikings completely fell apart immediately after RB Adrian Peterson was injured.

In the ensuing 2nd quarter of play, the Raiders had 3 possessions and 3 touchdown drives. With :51 left in the 3rd quarter, the Raiders had a very comfortable 20 point lead.

At this juncture in the game, the momentum shifted in the Vikings direction. Instead of closing out the Vikes, the game truly hung in the balance with the Raiders up 27-21 with 3:01 in the game and the Vikings with the ball.

The best way I can describe the Raiders' performance yesterday is "Good, Bad, and Ugly" with the end result an important victory to stay on course in capturing the AFCW division. 10 games into the season, at 6-4 and in the driver's seat in the division, there is a need to establish more consistency from quarter to quarter, half to half, and game to game. Most importantly, this team needs to ramp it up in the 4th quarter of play and put their collective foot on the opponent's throat.

GOOD:
- Raiders defensive pass pressure; 5 sacks (Sheppard on a corner blitz; 2 for Kelly, 2 for Bryant) 6 QB pressures, and 5 QB hits. DT Desmond Bryant, filling in for the majority of snaps for

Seymour, had his best game of his career. The next man up (Bryant) stepped up.

- Hue Jackson's playcalling; I like that Hue stuck with the run for 4 quarters instead of following the conventional wisdom of airing it out against an inexperienced, poor secondary. The Raiders rushed the ball 40 times and passed 23 times. It was also nice to see TE Kevin Boss targeted for 6 balls and coming up with 5 important receptions. Boss is an excellent receiver, a huge target for Palmer, and should be incorporated more in the red zone playbook.

- Michael Bush; Bush is the model for a consistently productive RB. He had his 2nd straight 100+ yard game on 30 carries compiling 109 yards on the ground. In the last 4 games, Bush has 461 total rushing yards.

- Jared vs. Jared; Jared Veldheer did an amazing job on the best pass rusher in the NFL, Jared Allen. Veldheer made Allen completely anonymous on the field (2 tackles, 0 sacks, 0 pressures, 0 QB hits).

- Takeaways (3 INTS; 2 fumble recoveries); Safey Giordano stopped a deep drive by Minnesota and returned the INT for 42 big yards. DT Kelly showed nice hands on a tipped pass securing an INT that led to a short field FG. CB Routt had a critical, game saving INT in the end zone.

BAD:
- Closing out the game with less than 6 minutes in the game, RB Bush coughed up a fumble. Bush hadn't fumbled since 2009 but this fumble allowed the Vikes to close a 13 margin to 6 and give (no pun intended) them new life.

- Pass Protection of everyone not named Veldheer; The Raiders OLine had provided solid, consistent pass protection all season long giving up only 11 sacks in the previous 9 games. In this game, Palmer was sacked 4 times and hit 8 times.

- QB Containment; QB Christian Ponder had 5 runs for 71 yards on busted plays. The Raiders LBs did a poor job tracking Ponder's scrambles and made it far too easy for him to pick up big, chain moving chunks of yardage.

UGLY:
- Penalties; what else is new? The Raiders had 12 costly penalties for 117 yards. Take away a few of the these inopportune, bone-head penalties, and the Raiders would have had a "W" on cruise control. Instead, the penalties reared their ugly head to breath life into the Vikings.

- 4th Quarter Drought; In the last 5 games (3-2), the Raiders have scored 0 total points in five consecutive 4th quarters.

UP NEXT:
The Raiders caught a major break when Da Bears (7-3) visit Oakland with QB Caleb Henie behind center. Starter Jay Cutler suffered a broken right thumb vs. San Diego.

Raiders Follow The Blueprint

2011-11-11T21:37:00.000-08:00

Raiders 24 - Chargers 17

Thursday night's game was a tough challenge for the Raiders. It was a character driven and character defining game in many ways. The key to a successful night was the Raiders dominating both sides of the line of scrimmage and staying true to their formula for success.

I appreciate and admire the 2011 team's resiliency. There have been a number of games this season where the team's character and commitment has been tested. After a heart crushing 2nd half collapse to the Bills, the team responded with a convincing bounce back victory vs. the Jets. After the loss to the Patsies and loss of owner Al Davis, the Raiders had an inspiring and emotional win at Houston. Going into the game there was a litany of built in excuses (short week, injury filled roster, new players getting up to speed) that ultimately fell on deaf ears as the Raiders physically dominated the Chargers.

THE BLUEPRINT
* Establish the run early and often.

When the Raiders utilize the rushing attack as a hammer, it wears down the opponent and sets up big plays in the passing game. When the opponent commits 8 defenders in the box to contain the Raiders rushing attack, play action pass is more effective and there are more favorable 1 on 1 match-ups for the receivers. An opportunistic, big play passing attack to score points and stretch the field is built on the shoulders of the running game.

More Bush: Michael Bush had a Herculean performance against the Chargers rushing the ball 30 times for 157 yards for a 5.2 average plus 1 TD. He also had 3 receptions for 85 yards. With Bush as the primary RB the past 3 games, he has racked up a total of 352 yards on 66 carries for a robust 5.4 average. Bush's elusiveness and speed (for a 250 lbs. RB), his ability to read blocks, make decisive cuts, and shed initial contact are his key attributes. He is also a sure handed pass catcher who is especially effective on delayed screen plays. The one area that he needs to improve upon is his pass blocking skills. His whiff on a pass block led to Palmer's 1 INT.

Bush's productivity in the 1st quarter (78 yards rushing) was the platform for QB Carson Palmer to have an efficient (12-20, 299 yards, 2 TDs) night in the passing attack. Palmer's handle and command of the Raiders offense has grown leaps and bounds in 2 short weeks. Palmer looked very comfortable in the pocket and was precise with his passes. The connection and trust between Palmer and Denarius Moore has also gained traction very quickly. Moore, drafted in the 5th round, had an electric night with 5 receptions for 123 yards and 2 TDs.

* An effective 4 man defensive pass rush that creates consistent QB pressure while using the blitz at key junctures in the game to ratchet up the pressure and become less static or predictable.

The Raiders defensive front 4 absolutely annihilated the Chargers OLine and caused Rivers discomfort, 6 sacks, 10 pressures, and 6 hits. Kamerion Wimbley had a monster game with 4 sacks and was such a disruptive force that the Chargers were forced into double-teaming him for most of the night. Safety blitzes from Branch, Mitchell, and Giordano were used judiciously and effectively to mix things up and keep Rivers on guard.

* Containing the run and minimizing the big chunk yardage on the ground.

Defending the run has been a weakness of the Raiders for too many years to count. There is a real "Dr. Jeckyll and Mr. Hyde" quality to this year's run defense. In Oakland's 5 wins this year, the defense allowed an average of 69.6 yards. In Oakland's 4 losses, the number swells up to 209.3 yards per game.

Run to win, pass to score, the QB must go down hard, and stop the run at all costs ... this is the core essence of the Raiders formula for success. The key for the Raiders to go to the next stage of progress and win the AFC West is centered on establishing more consistent team performances from week to week.

Up Next: 11/20 at Minnesota with the arduous task of slowing down RB Adrian Peterson.

Raiders Get Tebowed

2011-11-07T17:44:00.000-08:00

Broncos 38 - Raiders 24

The Raiders suffered their 2nd consecutive embarrassing loss at the hands of a divisional opponent. The worst part of losing this critical game is how the Raiders defense allowed QB Tim Tebow to execute a college style offense tailored to his strengths without making the proper adjustments.

The Raiders defensive front 7 had no answer for Tebow running the ball out of the shotgun (12-118-9.8) or RB McGahee gouging the interior line (20-163-8.2-2 TDs). With KC inexplicably getting trounced by Mia and SD losing a shoot-out to GBay, the Raiders let a golden opportunity slip away midway through the 3rd quarter with a 24-14 lead. Instead of taking command of the division, the Raiders allowed Denver 24 unanswered points.

A huge part of Denver's success in the 2nd half was their ability to run the ball between the tackles. For the day, the Broncos racked up a total of 299 yards rushing on 38 carries at 7.9 yards a pop. The absence of MLB McClain was very evident and noticeable.

QB Palmer showed good improvement (332 yard passing, 3 TDs) by using the bye week to get a better handle on the Raiders offense. However his 3 interceptions counter-balanced some of the good things he did in leading the unit throughout the game.

I'm optimistic that Palmer will continue to get more comfortable with the offensive game plan and personnel and do a better job in minimizing the # of costly INTs. The defense will need to rebound quickly facing a prolific Chargers offensive unit on a short week. It will be a challenging and interesting final 8 game push to see what this 2011 team is all about.

Train Wreck vs. KC

2011-10-24T18:36:00.000-07:00

Kansas City 28 - Oakland 0

The Raiders piss poor QB play led to a humiliating, sobering shut-out loss to the Chiefs. Kyle Boller, in his second season with the Raiders, demonstrated why he is a 9th year journeyman backup by making bad reads and decisions. In his 1st series at the helm, Boller threw into double-coverage which turned into a 59 yard TD interception.

This first Raiders' offensive series set the tone for a game that became an absolute train wreck. The train wreck included 3 INTs by Boller, 3 INTs by Palmer, the Raiders having 2 key starters hurt in the 1st half (McFadden - sprained foot; McLain - leg injury), and most discouraging, a 28-0 beatdown at home at the hands of a hated divisional rival.

In Boller's 7 total offensive series under center, he had (3) INTs and (3) 3 and outs. The 1st INT was returned for a TD. The 2nd INT put KC in good field position which they capitalized on for another TD and quick 14-0 lead with 1:53 left in only the 1st quarter. Boller's last INT killed a good drive right before half.

Hue Jackson trotted out Boller for the 1st series of the 3rd quarter which was a quick 3 and out. After KC scored another TD to go up by a commanding 21-0 lead, Jackson put in newly signed Carson Palmer. On Palmer's very 1st play as a Raider, the train wreck almost became the worst possible nightmare when DE Hali came crashing down at Palmer's legs right after Palmer released the pass. The entire 2011 season flashed before my eyes.

After spending 9 months on a couch and 3 days getting ready for Sunday, Palmer clearly wasn't ready for the speed, timing, and complexity of an NFL game. On the day, Palmer was 8/21 with 3 INTs.

Gift Wrap R Us:
An odd statistic in a 28-0 loss that shows the true value of turnovers as it relates to the scoreboard; Raiders 322 net offensive yards, KC 300 net offensive yards.

Up Next:
The bye week couldn't come at a more opportune time. The extra week of practice will be critical for the Raiders to put this ugly loss behind them, get key players healthy, and allow Palmer 2 full weeks of preparation time for a home game vs. Denver on Nov. 6th. This 2 week period before another important divisional game will define the team's leadership. How the team responds is a fork in the road for the 2011 season.

Raiders Are "All In"

2011-10-20T21:40:00.001-07:00

The Raiders acquisition of QB Carson Palmer by trading to the Bengals a 2012 1st round pick and conditional 2013 2nd round pick is a "swing for the fences" type move. When Campbell went down with a season ending injury last week, de facto GM Hue Jackson didn't bat an eye.

The injury, unique circumstances of Palmer, and the strong relationship between Palmer and Jackson all came together with a destiny type quality to it. It has created a situation where instead of expectations being lowered when our #1 QB went down, expectations have been raised even higher.

The merit of the trade is debatable depending on whether or not you think Palmer is past his prime or will have a career rejuvenation in silver and black. The value of the trade has yet to be determined. If Palmer creates a 3+ year window for the Raiders to make the playoffs, advance in the playoffs, and reach for the ultimate prize, this trade will be viewed very favorably by fans and the media.

This type of bold, aggressive acquisition by Jackson is fitting for a man who lives on the edge and isn't afraid to chase a championship. Instead of wallowing about unfortunate injuries, Jackson has created an environment where the players and fans believe in the team. Misfortune becomes opportunity. Someone goes down it turns into "next man up". Making excuses, pointing fingers, blaming refs is replaced by accountability and a will to win.

With Raider fans buzzing with anticipation of Carson Palmer's first start, sell out crowds acting as the 12 man on Sundays, and Jackson's leadership gaining traction and results, it is an exciting new chapter in Raider football.

Raiders Don't Blink

2011-10-17T18:34:00.001-07:00

Raiders 24 - Brownies 17

It was a bitter sweet game yesterday. It was sweet to honor Al in the 1st home game since his passing by finding the resiliency to come out victorious largely by parlaying 2 big special teams plays. It was bitter knowing that starting QB Campbell is likely out for the season with a fractured clavicle.

Special Team's Unit:
Jacoby Ford's electrifying 101 yard kickoff return TD and a deft fake FG 35 yard TD pass from Lechler to Boss was the engine that got the Raiders to the finish line.

Raiders Defense:
For the 2nd week in a row, the Raiders' defensive unit put the clamps on the opponent's rushing attack. Last week in Houston, the Texans had 70 yards on 25 carries for a 2.8 average. This week, the Raiders D gave up only 65 yards on 21 carries for a 3.1 average. Rookie Van Dyke held up fairly well in pass coverage, FS Giordano was a terror on the blitz (1 sack + 1 QB hit), and newly signed LB Curry fit seamlessly in as WLB. For the entire game, the Raiders D gave up only 1 "big play" (rushing attempt for 15+ yards or pass completion of 20+ yards) to WR Cribbs on a 23 yard pass play.

Next Man Up:
When Campbell was injured in the 2nd quarter, back-up QB Kyle Boller took over. Boller looked shaky and was inaccurate with his throws in his 1st few series. By the 4th quarter though, Boller seemed to settle down.

Head Coach has been stressing the team aspect of "next man up" throughout the season. When a player has gone down to injury (Murphy, Boss, Johnson, Chekwa, Shaughnessy, Satele, Huff) another Raider is expected to step up to the challenge. This will be put to the ultimate test with the QB position.

My expectation is that the Raiders will sign a back-up QB in the next 24-48 hours (Trent Edwards, Charlie Frye, or Josh McCown). Boller, who worked with Hue Jackson in Baltimore, is an experienced QB (66 games played) with a live arm and good mobility. The key will be for Jackson and Saunders to customize the offensive game plan to allow Boller to manage the game.

Hue Jackson Quote:
“I keep telling everybody this team is becoming something,” Raiders coach Hue Jackson said. “We don’t blink when things happens. Obviously, we lost our quarterback early. Very unfortunate. But that’s part of the game, part of the business."

Up Next:

Raiders (4-2) at home vs. the KC Ketchup & Mustard Men (2-3)

Resolve and Honor

2011-10-09T20:49:00.000-07:00

Raiders 25 - Texans 20

In this game 24 hours after the passing of Al Davis, the Raiders demonstrated the type of resolve that was a fitting tribute to their fallen leader. The core essence of Davis' mantra of "Just Win Baby" is to find a way, any possible way, to come out on top when the scoreboard hits 00:00. The statistics might show that the Texans dominated the game but the scoreboard told a different story.

Quick Hitters:

1. Raiders D:
In spite of giving up 21 1st downs, 473 yards, and being on the field for close to 35:00, the D was aggressive, opportunistic, and gritty. After the Texans initial drive, Raider defenders aggressively got after QB Schaub. Huff, Mitchell, and McClain were used in blitz packages which aided the defense in 9 QB pressures, 3 sacks, 8 QB hits, and 8 deflected passes. The defense made opportunistic plays at key junctures in the game. Seymour (2) and Kelly had critical sacks, LaMar Houston a momentum changing interception, and Huff a game closing INT.

2. SeaBass Was Huge:
4-4 on the day and accounting for 13 of the 25 points, SeaBass' early 55 and 54 yard field goals allowed the Raiders to settle into the game and keep the score close in the 1st half.

3. DHB:
Another controversial 1st round pick of Davis like SeaBass 11 years ago, DHB had 7 catches for 99 yards including one 34 yard TD reception. With back to back productive games, DHB is slowly becoming a reliable WR and solid contributor.

4. Emotional Sunday:
Watching Jackson's reaction at the end of the game and in his post victory locker room speech was emotional. His love for Davis and the Raiders came gushing out in tears, words, and gratitude.

End Of An Era - R.I.P. Al Davis

2011-10-08T12:13:00.001-07:00

Al Davis (July 4, 1929 - October 8, 2011) - Rest in Peace

Al Davis is unlike any sports figure in history. His singular, passionate focus on football has left an indelible mark and rich legacy. He was a true pioneer, legend, and titan of modern professional football.

Davis' unyielding drive to win vaulted him from an assistant coach at Adelphi College in 1950 all the way up the ladder to an owner of a $800M+ enterprise.

An end to an era brings a new chapter to Raider football. It is my sincere hope that this transition of change and uncertainty brings about an opportunity to modernize the Raiders operation and organization but keeps the spirit and essence of what Davis built the past 48 years burning brightly.

RIP, Big Al.
"I don't want to be the most respected team in the League. I want to be the most feared."

Pats Slice & Dice Raiders D

2011-10-03T18:48:00.001-07:00

Patriots 31 - Raiders 19

The Raiders defense got off to a terrible start and continued to struggle with the Pats high- powered offense. In the 1st series, DT Richard Seymour gift wrapped 30 yards in penalties, sustaining the initial drive, and leading to an opening TD drive. The 1st penalty was a boneheaded, completely unnecessary roughness on Brady on a 3rd and 9. The 2nd penalty was a senseless face mask on 2nd and 10.

The Raiders defense was carved up by the Patriots passing attack and rush offense for 409 nets yards. The total net yards wasn't alarming but the Pats ginsu knifing the Raiders defense by running the ball (30 carries, 183 yards, 6.1 ypc) was glaring and somewhat unexpected. Going into Sunday's game, the Pats had one of the most anemic rushing attacks in the NFL.

There were numerous times throughout the game that the Raiders secondary simply had no answer in stopping or remotely containing WR Wes Welker. Double teams, zone, man to man ... didn't seem to matter with Welker grabbing 9 balls for 158 yards and a TD. The fact that the secondary did a poor job on the initial tackle of Welker only made it worse.

Part of the problem was the efficiency, balance, and style of the Pats offense. The Raiders seemed to pre-determine that blitzing wasn't an option against the Pats spread offense which is sound in theory. The 4 man pass rush didn't provide enough pressure on Brady who was allowed to sit back, comfortably view the complete field, and often times, pick out his secondary or third reads. My personal belief is that at some point in the game when your D is getting steamrolled that it is time to take a few risky chances with the defensive playcalling in order to change the dynamic of the game. DC Breshnahan opted for a passive approach that was the equivalent of watching a slow, painful water torture

The key juncture in the game was near the end of the 2nd quarter with the Raiders down 10-14. Driving the ball 80 yards from their own 14 yard line and consuming 5+ minutes on the clock, the Raiders faced a critical 2 and goal from the 6.

Head Coach Hue Jackson called a play action pass that went horribly wrong when QB Campbell got happy feet in the pocket and threw an INT in the back of the end zone without a Raider receiver in close proximity. It was a play that Campbell could have thrown out of the end zone to live another down or pulled it down and run for daylight. Besides the poor decision by Campbell, I also question the choice of playcall in this situation. The Patriots had difficulties stopping the Raiders running attack. Why not run McFadden on a power sweep or Bush between the tackles?

It was frustrating to realize that the Raiders had a golden opportunity to go into half with a 17-14 lead but instead this turnover led to a 10 point swing with the Pats leading 17-10. It was also disturbing that Jackson only called 14 run plays for McFadden who was earning 5.4 per carry. Unless hurt, McFadden should be geting a minimum of 25 carries per game. This isn't rocket science. He is the best player on the team, an elite player in the league, and the Raiders ultimate playmaker. (Update: McFadden was nursing a sore groin and was used sparingly by Jackson for this reason.)

The game truly got away from the Raiders when the Pats marched to 2 TD drives on their 1st 2 possession of the 3rd quarter. Poor tackling, more inopportune penalties, a non-existent pass rush, and key receptions by Welker made it look all too easy.

The way this season is unfolding, the Raiders offense will need to overcome the defense's shortcomings. The offense will not only have to carry the D but do it by using the rushing attack as the primary means and sledgehammer for establishing the terms of the game. When the Raiders go against the grain of a pass happy league, running the ball 60%+ of the time, it creates the best chance to control the tempo, time of possession, keep the D off the field, and exert their bullying will upon the opponent.

Clearly, the best thing the Raiders do is run the ball with McFadden and Bush. Currently the Raiders are the #1 team in the NFL in rushing at 178.8 per game. This team has scored at a 27.8 clip. The elephant in the room is a defense that is gouged by the run (#29, 136.0 per game) and gives up far too many points (#30, 28.3 per game). In order for this team to take the next step in climbing the competitive ladder, the onus will be on the defense to make drastic, urgent improvements for the remaining 12 games.

Bully In Black

2011-09-26T18:52:00.000-07:00

Raiders 34 - Jets 24

The Raiders response in a "bounce-back" game was achieved in a bullying fashion. After squandering a 21-3 lead to the Bills last week, yesterday's contest vs. the Jets was a critical test of the team's character.

Although there were many pivotal plays throughout the game, the crucial juncture to get a true barometer of the Raiders mettle came in the 2nd quarter after falling behind 7-17.

The Raiders answered the bell and scored a touchdown. On the 4th play of the drive, Darren McFadden busted off a 70 yard TD run that electrified the sell-out home crowd and shifted the momentum of the game in the Raiders direction.

McFadden, the #1 back in the NFL, had another monster game (19 carries, 171 yards, 9.0 per carry, 2 TDs). After last season's breakout year (223 carries, 1,157 yards, 5.2 per carry), McFadden is establishing himself as an elite, MVP caliber performer.

In 3 games this season, #20 has totaled 393 rushing yards on 61 carries for a stunning 6.4 yard average. What is truly amazing about these bulging numbers is the fact that every NFL team game plans to stop him by putting 8 men in the box. On top of that, the Raiders have an OLine that is inexperienced and a work in progress.

After closing out the 2nd quarter with a nice drive to put SeaBass in field goal range (54 yards) and knot the game at 17-17, the Raiders turned the screws on the Jets by stonewalling them on their 1st 4 possessions of the 2nd half and building a 31-17 lead.

Misc. Bully Notes:

* The play of the game, in my book, was the 23 yard TD reverse run by rookie WR Denarious Moore. The reason that this play had me giddy wasn't just the spectacular speed, moves, and goal line stretch by Moore but the "de-cleater" block by center Samson Satelle. Satelle's block absolutely destroyed and lifted the Jets safety on to his back. Thank you CBS for showing the play 4 additional times.

* Ring up DE/SLB Wimbley with an eye gouging, head swiveling sack on QB Sanchez. For the day, the Raiders had consistent pressure on Sanchez which resulted in 4 sacks and 1 hurried INT in the end zone by safety Tyvon Brach.

* The Raiders run defense were sound in tackling for the majority of snap which minimized the Jets to 100 total rushing yards on 25 carries. The Raiders run offense mauled the Jets to the tune of 234 yards on 32 carries for an eye popping 7.3 yards per carry. These 2 facets of the game (Run D, rush offense) are the blue print to building a bully with the men in the trenches.

Up Next: The Patsies are stinging after allowing the Bills to storm back to win from 21 points down. New England's spread offense which incorporates 4 WR sets, will be a very stern test for the Raiders defense. However, the flip-side to this coin is how the Patsies will attempt to slow down the robust, bullying rush offense of the Raiders. The key for the Raiders in 2011 will be to establish a certain standard level of consistency from quarter to quarter, half to half, and game to game.

Raiders D As Soft As Charmin

2011-09-19T19:12:00.000-07:00

Raiders 35 - Bills 38

The Raiders 3 units played a solid, productive 1st half of team football in Buffalo. It was impressive to see the team get off to a good start especially considering the short week and cross country trip. The first 30:00 included very few penalties, breakdowns, and 3 consecutive TD drives to close the half up by 21-3.

Unfortunately, the Raiders defensive unit and in particular, Defensive Coordinator Chuck Bresnahan, failed miserably in the 2nd half allowing the Bills 5 TD drives in 5 possessions.

The tissue soft, prevent D orchestrated by Bresnahan and poorly executed by the defensive unit was simply inexcusable. Throughout the 2nd half, in spite of an 18 point lead, 11 point lead, 4 point lead, and again 4 point lead, the defensive unit couldn't make 1 single play to get off the field.

Here are a few areas that stick in my craw;

* The Bills' offense only success in the air was through a short passing game. Did Fitzpatrick even attempt a pass that traveled more than 25 yards in the air? The point being, if you have a commanding lead and know your opponent is executing short timing patterns then the simple adjustment is get aggressive (opposite of soft) with your coverage scheme, mix things up, and go for the knock out blow.

* The Bills go-to receiver was whoever was lined up against Chris Johnson. Stevie Johnson lit up CJ. Did Bresnahan slide a safety over to bracket CJ's man and provide extra support? Why was Breshahan allowing Stevie Johnson a 5+ yard cushion and free release when (a) CJ is better at tight man to man coverage and (b) the Bills are operating a short passing game. Makes no sense and defies logic. Jam the Bills WRs and move the safeties closer to the line of scrimmage and force Fitzpatrick to beat you deep with his pop gun arm.

* The Raiders D was vanilla and predictable in terms of a variety of schemes deployed. The predictability of the coverage schemes and inability to incorporate exotic blitz packages to alter the game's outcome is disheartening. Using a 4 man pass rushing front in obvious passing downs is playing to "not lose". It is double-ply, flowery toilet paper.

* It was a very poor day for the Raiders defense in regards to tackling especially in the open field. McClain, Giordano, and Branch whiffed for the day in this department.

* As the 2nd half unfolded and the Bills offense was clicking on all cylinders, all I could think was "Come on D ... someone make a play". There were numerous opportunities. 40 offensive plays run by the Bills. 0 game altering plays made by the D. 2 plays are hard to swallow.

* The first play occurred with the Raiders up by 28-24 and about 5 minutes left in the game. Safety Tyvon Branch had perfect coverage on TE Chandler in the end zone. He was in front of Chandler when Fitzpatrick threwthe ball right in his hands. Instead of securing the easy pick, Branch somehow allowed the ball to slip through his hand and into the waiting hands of Chandler.
TD Bills.

* The 2nd play occurred on the Bills last TD drive with the Raiders up 35-31. CB Chris Johnson had a golden opportunity to ice the game and go from a goat to a hero when Fitzpatrick threw the ball up for grabs in the corner of the end zone. Johnson caught the ball in the air but failed to secure it allowing the WR to strip him on the way down. Bills live to play another down and end up with the go ahead TD with :14 on the clock.

The shame is that the Raiders offense gave the Raiders countless opportunities to finish the game off but our D was nothing more than a COSTCO sized 24 pack of ultra soft Charmin. It is also unfortunate that rookie WR Denarius Moore's breakout game (5 receptions, 146 yards, 1 jaw dropping TD) is merely a side note due to the loss.

Up Next: A very difficult home opener vs. the 2-0 NY Jets. To say that the D owes the O in this game is to make the ultimate understatement. If Bresnahan doesn't cut the dogs of war on D loose, pass me the vomit bag.

Sea-Bass-Tastic!

2011-09-13T18:01:00.000-07:00

Raiders 23 - Donkeys 20

It is too early in the 2011 NFL season to get a proper read on the Raiders. Here are a few observations from the opener on the MNF opener vs. the Donkeys that was highly entertaining sloppy yet fulfilling.

* Building A Bully - Run Game

Darren McFadden picked up where he left off from the 2010 campaign by rushing for 150 yards on 22 carries (6.8 avg.). Run DMC had 2 critical carries that led to 14 points. In the 2nd quarter, McFadden had a 20 yard run on 3rd & 8 that set the Raiders up for their 1st TD and lead of the game. In the 4th quarter, #20 came up huge with a game altering 47 yard run to the Denver 1 yard line. His punishing, aggressive, explosive running style along with RB Michael Bush's downhill style is the foundation for building a bully. By establishing and sticking with the rushing attack, ranked #2 last year, the Raiders imposed their will and physicality upon the Donkos.

* Making An Opponent 1 Dimensional - Rush D

The Raiders front 7 bottled up Denver's running attack, got a lead, and forced Denver to become a 1 dimensional unit. For the game, Denver's RBs produced a paltry 25 total rushing yards on 12 carries (2.1 avg.). Throughout the game, the front 7, with the assistance of DBs in more zone than usual, kept Denver from any big rushing plays with the exception of 1 scramble by Orton. Gap control, lane discipline, and solid tackling by the Raiders' D were a big part of the unit's success.

* Pass Rush, Sacks, and Blitzing

The starting DLine (Houston, Kelly, Seymour, Shaughnessy) had a tremendous night by applying constant pressure on QB Orton. Kelly and Seymour did an excellent job collapsing the pocket and the duo rung up 3 timely sacks. Houston, Shaughnessey, and Wimbley provided consistent pressure from the edge leading to numerous holding penalties and QB pressure. It was also nice to see our DC dial up some effective blitz packages with primarily Giordano and Huff leading the charge.

* Yellow Hankey Parade

It is a broken record that is getting tiresome to re-play. The vast majority of the 15 penalties for 131 yards can be attributed to a lack of discipline. The O-Line (Barnes, Heyer in particular) were the main culprits. Although the Raiders came away with an important divisional, road game, opening "W", the penalties are a major concern that needs to be addressed, cleaned up, and minimized.

* Sea-Bass-Tastic!

Congratulations to SeaBass for tying the NFL record for the longest field goal. As it turned out, this 63 yard polish 2 iron blast was the difference in the game. I get the distinct feeling (read as "hunch") that Jason Elan and Tom Dempsey will be stepping aside in the record book very soon. SeaBass has the leg and a ton of confidence to break the record if the right situation arises.

Class Act - Nnamdi Asomugha

2011-07-29T17:40:00.001-07:00

It was reported today that my favorite Raider, Nnamdi Asomugha, has been signed by the Eagles to a 5 year $60M deal. Although I was surprised with Nnamdi's final destination (Philly instead of NYJ, Dallas, or Arizona), it wasn't a shock that the Raiders weren't able to bring him back into the fold. When you consider the Raiders' current salary cap challenges, Nnamdi was a luxury item that the team couldn't afford when configuring a 53 man roster.

Career Highlights and Awards:

- 4x Pro Bowl selection

- 4x All-Pro selection

- 2x Oakland Raiders MVP;

- Ranked #18 on the list of NFL Network's Top 100 NFL players of 2011

Nnamdi is the epitome of a TRUE role model ... elite shut-down cornerback, phenomenal athlete, dedicated professional, outstanding work ethic, humble, law abiding solid citizen, man of character, and passionate philanthropist. #21 will be sorely missed in the Raider Nation and I wish him the very best in his next stage of his career.

Happy Birthday, Al

2011-07-04T12:33:00.000-07:00

As the country celebrates it's 237th year of independence, Al turns 82. I have been laying low in the weeds with the league lockout but will pick things up as soon as the CBA mess gets sorted. In the meantime, Martin Snapp has an interesting article in today's Oakland Tribune worth reading.

Al Davis / Hue Jackson Press Conference

2011-01-18T19:19:00.000-08:00

A very interesting day in Alameda to say the least. Davis dropping verbal hay-makers on Cable, F-Bombs caught on mic, and introducing Hue Jackson, "But today, I want you to meet the new head coach of the Oakland Raiders, I'm proud as hell, Hue Jackson."

By far the most entertaining and interesting part of the press conference was the Q & A with the various Bay Area and national sports writers. Part of the transcript by Kawakami is here.

Newly named Head Coach Hue Jackson's demeanor, personality, energy, positivity, passion, and enthusiasm really bubbles to the surface in his press conference.

I have to say I am either a complete sucker for what I saw from Hue Jackson's PC or we are in for a wonderful, glorious ride with him at the helm. When I watched Hue's press conference the first things that ran through my mind are;

(1) Wow! He is a lot like Gruden in terms of vibe, energy, passion, and charisma. His communication skills are quite extraordinary.

(2) Hue has fully embraced the unique and difficult environment in Oakland with no misgivings whatsoever. He is either very naive or the type of guy who truly relishes the opportunity when all the cards are supposedly stacked against him.

(3) Hue is without a doubt the most positive, confident, self-assured HC we have had since Gruden. It doesn't seem to be an artificial bravado but the real deal.

(4) He understands that if he has any chance of being successful at being the HC in Oakland that he needs to;
(a) raise the bar and preach high expectations or die on his own sword ... playoffs or bust.
(b) give Davis public respect w/o reservations, hesitation, and in such a way that he is acknowledging the challenges BUT not making excuses for anything less than striving for the brass ring. Yes, this also means kissing the Don's ring & ass. If this is the game that he has to play to survive and strive, so be it. Hue Jackson will need to be a skilled diplomat, savvy politician, gifted deal-maker, Oscar worthy actor, and yes, results-oriented head coach all rolled into one.

Lastly, the twitters and quotes from players seems to be universally behind and supportive of this promotion. Guys like Campbell (IMO, the most important relationship on the team), Asomugha, Miller, goes a long ways towards stability, continuity, and trying to get to the next rung on the competitive ladder ... playoffs 2011 (or 2012 with a lockout).

All things considered, I feel a whole lot better about this team going into 2011 than I did prior to the 2010 campaign. This feeling of optimism is especially true considering the nucleus of the 2010 draftees plus other young players making up the core group. Onwards and upwards!

Davis explanation for Cable being shown the door:

Godfather Davis dropping F-Bombs:

Cable Cut Loose

2011-01-04T22:23:00.001-08:00

Cable Cut Loose

The Head Coach of the Oakland Raiders often used the mantra of “Just cut it loose” to express to his team to play with passion and not worry about making mistakes.

Little did he realize that Davis would “cut him loose”. I’m sure Cable is devastated and blindsided by this stunning news. The guy bled silver and black and seemed to grow as a Head Coach.

After doing all the heavy lifting, excavating the team from the gutter into a competitive, on the cusp playoff team, Cable will not be on deck to see the fruits of his labor in 2011. In the meantime, I am in a "wait and see" mode and here's why:

Davis took such an unexpected, early in the game, decisive approach to clearing Cable with still almost 2 weeks before the deadline to exercise or opt out of Cable’s contract. Just speculation on my part but to me it means 1 of 4 things:

(1) It was Cable or Jackson ... Davis must be giving the lion's share of credit to Jackson and desperately doesn't want to lose him. Davis has always preferred a Head Coach who was also the playcaller. Jackson took an anemic offense from 2009 and doubled the unit's scoring output in 1 season of work. The fork in the road or accelerated cause for making an early decision on Cable was the interview with SF. Davis didn't want to be playing musical chairs without a chair for Jackson.

(2) Davis was severely disappointed in not making the playoffs ... in spite of going 6-0 in the division, the Raiders fell short in winnable games to Arizona, San Francisco, and Jacksonville.

(3) Davis has a “rock-star” candidate on deck who is a clear upgrade over Cable and his hand is forced by external forces due to the candidate’s current situation.

(4) Davis has lost his marbles. This is his vendetta on Cable for siding with Ski over Campbell in the early stages of the season.

If Davis lands Harbaugh or Fisher, I applaud it. Whenever the organization has an opportunity to upgrade their personnel and coaching staff, no time is better than the present.

If Davis names Jackson the Head Coach, I will be disappointed but would understand (see comment 1).

If Davis is fumbling around interviewing retread candidates well into February without a clear cut plan in place, what can I say but welcome to Raiderville.

Where Are The Condiments?

2011-01-03T21:29:00.000-08:00

Raiders 31 - Condiments 10
Who says the game on Sunday was "meaningless"? In the epitome of a true character game, the Raiders put a SERIOUS beatdown on the Ketchup and Mustard Men of Kansas City.

Our OLine and DLine completely destroyed , dominated, humiliated, and decimated the Chefs on the day Marty Shittenheimer was inducted into the ring of "fame".

For all the Chef fans barking about making it to the playoffs, remember a few important points before you go hoarse:
(1) We swept your ass and owned the division going 6-0 while you limped to an embarassing 2-4 mark.
(2) Your team hasn't won a single playoff game since 1993 ... 17 years ago with Marcus Allen at tailback no less.
(3) Your one and only Lombardi Trophy was earned in 1969 ... 41 years ago when Tricky Dick Nixon was president of the good old US of A.
(4) Your QB was running scared for his life on Sunday after suffering 7 sacks, numerous knockdowns, completing only 11 of 33 passes, and throwing 2 picks.

With the Raiders missing arguably their best offensive (McFadden) and defensive (Seymour) players on Sunday, going on the road with nothing to play for besides pride, pride won out convincingly. And make no mistake, KC Head Coach Hayley was clearly playing to win. He desperately wanted his team to earn the #3 seed and go into the playoff round with an 8-0 home record and momentum.

Instead his team got steamrolled in every possible phase of the game. When he finally pulled QB Cassel from the the fray, the Raiders led by 21 points and he didn't want any more mental and physical harm for his QB. It was a mercy substitution and nothing more than waving the white towel.

The Ravens should be thanking the Raiders organization after they eliminate the Chefs (1 and done) from the playoffs. The blueprint is fairly simple. Stop the run, put pressure on Cassel, get the lead, and watch the Chefs collapse. The fact that we crushed the Chefs pysche and confidence going into the game is the cherry on top.

Arm Chair Analysis - Indy @ Oakland

2010-12-27T18:41:00.000-08:00

Colts 31 - Raiders 26

Game sure started out nice, huh? Gotta love Jacoby Ford! 3 KO returns for TDs. This one was set up by Ford reading his 1st block and then putting it into over-drive untouched for 99 yards. He has a 2nd gear of acceleration that is truly astonishing.

This game was puzzling, encouraging, and disappointing all rolled into a big fat burrito. Puzzling in terms of the the identities of the teams being flipped. Encouraging by how far this team has come in 12 months. It was disappointing because the Raiders, for unknown reasons, forgot their formula for success and the fact that before kickoff were eliminated from playoff contention. Thank the Thumbtacks for mailing in their game with the Condiments. At least KFC's strong arm was put to good use by causing a concussion to his own teammate on the sidelines with an inadvertent pass.

Upon further review and reflections, here are some of my random thoughts on Sunday's game:

What happened to sticking with our offensive unit's identity and strength, the running attack?

Prior to the coin toss, the Raiders were the #2 ranked rushing offense in the NFL and Indy was the #28 ranked rushing defense. Even Joe Arm Chair QB would surmise that the Raiders would pound the rock, establish the run between the tackles, and dictate the terms of the game.

In spite of a 7-0 lead, causing the Colts a 3 and out on their 1st possession, and a game evenly matched in time of possession, the Raiders only attempted a grand total of 10 rushing plays in the 1st half. What's up, Huey?

The Raiders rushing attack is the engine that drives the team to success. It creates viable play-action-pass opportunities. The rushing attack keeps the defense fresh. Most importantly, it is what we do best by exerting our will and physicality upon the opponent.

Here is a breakdown of the Raiders 7 victories this season with the rushing attempts and yards listed:

vs. St. Louis - 40 rushing attempts, 173 yards
vs. San Diego - 30 rushing attempts, 111 yards
at Denver - 52 rushing attempts, 328 yards
vs. Seattle - 39 rushing attempts, 239 yards
vs. KC - 26 rushing attempts, 112 yards
at San Diego - 52 rushing attempts, 251 yards
vs. Denver - 41 rushing attempts, 264 yards

In these glorious 7 victories, the Raiders have AVERAGED 40 rushing attempts, 211 yards for over 5 yards per carry.

On Sunday, the Raiders had inexplicably only 20 rushing attempts for 80 yards. Of those 20 rushing attempts, McFadden and Bush combined for a measly 14 TOTAL attempts.

Why would a team go away from their strength and exposing an opponent's OBVIOUS weakness? I'm afraid that I don't have any logical reasons but just more questions for Baby Huey such as;

*Was Indy doing anything on defense special to take away the Raiders running attack? No.

*Were the Raiders RBs getting stonewalled by 8 or 9 in the box? No.

*Was Oakland forced to pass more than usual to play catch-up due to falling way behind on the scoreboard? No.

Head-Scratchers:

The Colts are the most prolific passing team in the entire NFL yet the Raiders put up more net yards passing (237 to 179). If you were to tell me that we would hold Manning to 179 yards passing and get 2 picks and still lose, I would think you are out of your mind.

The Colts ran the ball 39 times for 191 net yards which is completely out of character. Big Rich Seymour was sorely missed on Sunday as the Colts gouged the Raiders D right up the pipe.

2 Raider pass interference calls were highly questionable and ultimately pivotal to the final outcome. I don't normally make a big deal out of the officiating. However, these 2 PIs clearly were not interference and led to 2 Colts TDs.

The first PI just before the conclusion of the 1st half was against Chris Johnson on Pierre Garcon. At worse, it was nothing more than harmless hand fighting well before the ball was near Garcon. This play was from the Oakland 43 on 3rd and 15 with only :45 left on the clock. Sure enough, the next play Manning found a teammate in the end zone. Instead of the Raiders going into half up 13-10, the momentum was shifted with a Colts 17-13 halftime lead.

The second PI, which was completely bogus, came against Standford Routt covering WR White on a deep seam route. Routt simply didn't interfere with White. This infraction put the Colts on the Raiders 12 yard line and led to another TD. The Colts 1 point lead was pushed up to an 8 point margin. Prior to the PI, the Raiders D had put the clamps down on Indy's offense. The offense had shrunk the lead from 4 points to 1 point.

In the final arm chair analysis, the way that the game unfolded was not in the Raiders wheelhouse. When the Raiders have won in 2010, it has been built on the sturdy shoulders of a dominating rushing attack, an opportunistic defense, and solid special teams play. The failure to commit to the 1st component to this formula put the team in uncharted territory.

Indy @ Oakland -- Holiday Edition

2010-12-23T18:21:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to the Raider Nation! It is hard to believe that we are speeding towards the end of the year and completion of the regular season. It seems like only yesterday that I started this blog in December of 2005.

This season has been filled with the full range of exhilarating highs and bitter disappointments. The BIG difference that I've noticed as a fan in 2010, which is a significant departure from the grim previous 7 seasons, is that the team has developed a competitive swagger. There is a sense of turning the corner and establishing a solid platform to continue to reach for the next highest rung.

Being on the cusp of a playoff berth in 2010 can be partly attributed to key additions (Campbell, Wimbley, Groves) and an outstanding rookie class where the 1st four picks made a sizable contribution (McClain, Houston, Veldheer, Ford).

The hiring of OC Hue Jackson has been instrumental in turning an anemic unit into a high powered explosive group currently ranked #9 in scoring. Under Jackson's watch, the offensive unit has become more balanced and diversified while doubling it's scoring output compared to 2009.

HC Tom Cable has done a terrific job keeping the team motivated and focused. I give Cable a ton of credit for developing the great team chemistry and instilling the team's esprit de corps. Watching the 2010 Raiders play and interact, it is quite evident that the players genuinely care about each other and give maximum effort for each other.

Up Next: A very interesting "chess match" vs. Indy. The personality, style of play, and strengths of these 2 teams couldn't be any different. When the Colts are at their best, Manning is carving up the opponent utilizing the passing game with the precision of a watch maker. When the Raiders are at their best, McFadden is dicing and grinding up defensive unit on the ground.

Donkeys Kicked In the Teeth -- Again

2010-12-21T21:35:00.001-08:00

Raiders 39 - Donkeys 23
In a "must-win" game, the Raiders took care of business and in-turn, kept their slim playoff hopes alive. In the 1st half of action, the Raiders turned the ball over 3 times (2 INTs and 1 fumble) and gave up 2 inexcusable TDs on defense.

In spite of these turnovers and key defensive breakdowns, the Raiders made enough plays to go into half-time tied at 17-17.

The adjustments and sharper execution in the 2nd half was evident in the 22-6 differential in points and 243-73 yards gained. For the entire 2nd half, the Donkeys only put up 17 yards rushing. Besides chipping in with an important safety that made it a 2 possession lead (7 to 9 point lead), the defense contained the Tebow runs and blanketed the Donkeys receivers.

The offensive unit displayed the explosive playmaking abilities that has been a revelation this season. The win over the Donkey's was the 5th time in 14 games that the Raiders racked up 30+ points. For the season, the Raiders offense is ranked at #9 with a 25.2 points per game average. The big, explosive, key offensive plays came from Jacoby Ford (71 yard TD run), Marcel Reece (73 yard TD pass), and a solid effort from Darren McFadden (20, 119, 5.9 ypc). McFadden pushed his season rushing total up to 1112 yards on 212 carries for a robust 5.2 ypc average.

5-0 in the division and 5-2 at home are solid platforms to build on for 2011 no matter what happens in the last 2 games of the season. Counting on Tennessee to beat KC at home and Cincy to trump SD might be "fools gold" but the fact that in week 16 (game 15) the Raiders are still in the hunt is a testament to how far this team has progressed in climbing the competitive ladder.

Raiders 2nd Half Collapse

2010-12-13T18:11:00.000-08:00

Raiders 31 - Jaguars 38

The Raiders' playoff hopes were dampened and severely dimmed considerably by a 2nd half collapse. Miscues by the Special Teams unit and back breaking big plays given up by the Defense led to JAX scoring 31 2nd half points.

This loss is particularly difficult to swallow when a few impact plays are isolated and examined. After playing a solid 1st half in all 3 phases of the game and going into the locker room up 17-7, the Raiders gave up 4 TDs in the 2nd half alone on a total of 13 plays.

The Special Teams gave the Jaguars' offense 3 possessions on short fields. The Raiders Defense gave up three 30+ yard gain TDs.

Here is a summary of the 6 pivotal plays that turned the tide against the Raiders:

1. Oakland kicks off to JAX to open the 2nd half. SeaBass kick is short (fielded at JAX 21 yard line) and JAX returns it to the JAX 43 yard line.

2. Safety Michael Huff is burned for a 48 yard TD strike to WR Jason Hill. Huff gave Hill a huge cushion off the line of scrimmage yet allowed Hill to run right by him into the end zone.

3. Facing 3rd and 2, RB Rashard Jennings goes on a 74 yard TD run. Jennings TD run should have been stopped near the sideline but the Raider defenders did a poor job containing him and using the sideline to get him out of bounds. Newly acquired DE Jarvis Moss completely whiffed on an open field tackle near the sideline by taking a bad angle. This TD run was on JAX's 3rd play of the possession.

4. On the ensuing kickoff, WR/KR Jacoby Ford fumbled the ball and JAX recovered at the Oakland 21 yard line. QB Gerrard found WR Mike Sims-Walker in the corner of the end zone for a 10 yard TD.

5. After a brilliant 36 yard TD run by RB McFadden knotted the game at 31-31, the Raiders Special Teams took all the air out of the balloon by allowing JAX to return the kick 65 yards to their own 30 yard line.

6. After the 65 yard kick return, on the 1st play from scrimmage, MJD hit a huge hole for a 30 yard TD.

It will be interesting to see how the team handles this set back. The deck is stacked against the Raiders making the playoffs although there are still enough permutations to keep a small glimmer of hope alive. A scenario where the Raiders, Chargers, and Chiefs ending the regular season at 9-7 and the Raiders winning the tie-breaker is a nice dream to ponder. Pounding the Donkeys at home on Sunday, getting back to .500, and keeping the hope alive is good starting point. If nothing else, playing meaningful games in December was step 1 in climbing the competitive ladder.

Raiders Identity Restored

2010-12-06T21:23:00.000-08:00

Raiders 28 - Chargers 13
The Raiders dominated, mauled, mugged, and man-handled the Chargers on both sides of the line on Sunday. This was a game clearly won in the all important trenches. The dismantling of their divisional rival foe restored the Raiders bread and butter identity of a team that relies heavily on a punishing rushing attack to exert their will.

251 net yards rushing to the Chargers 21 yards net rushing is what allowed for an effective play action pass, a bootleg run TD, for the Raiders D to be fresh, and pin their ears back with a relentless pass rush.

Playing with an early lead due to a muffed punt return by Sproles that set up an early TD bootleg run by Campbell, the Raiders defense hounded Phillip Rivers with an excellent pass rush. By my estimation, the Raiders pass rush accounted for a combination of 25+ hurries, hits, and sacks (4). Rivers was running for his dear life and never got in any rhythm. When necessary, DC Marshall dialed up an extra blitzer (Huff, McClain, Groves, Branch) to ratchet up the pressure.

The OLine had their best performance of the season and deserve lofty praise for enabling McFadden and Bush to combine for 192 yards on the ground. McFadden and Bush did a nice job breaking through the initial tackler and surging forward for critical 2,3,4 yard gains and more. Throughout the game, due to the effectiveness of the rushing attack, QB Campbell had the luxury of using play action passes to make some big plays and being set up with manageable 3rd down conversions.

Bottom Line: The Raiders' team success is largely predicated on the efficiency and persistence of the rushing attack. When the Raiders are running "down hill", this team has a noticeable swagger and is rather difficult to beat.

Key Stats:

* Time of Possession: Raiders 38:39 - Chargers 21:21
* Red Zone Efficiency: Raiders 4-4 100% - Chargers 1-2 50%
* Rushing 1st Downs: Raiders 14 - Chargers 0
* 3rd Down Conversions: Raiders 8-15 - Chargers 3-10

"We told ourselves all week we wanted to stick with the run, whether it was working or not" McFadden told reporters afterward, "We feel like we go back to our identity today. We wanted to run the ball and we did a great job with it."

52 rushes for a net of 251 yards and an average of 4.8 per carry is the type of rushing attack that clearly demonstrates this team's capabilities to set the tone and dictate the terms of the game.

The unequivocal belief that you can run the ball down the throat of an opponent requires the mindset that you won't back down. The Raiders coaching staff, OLine, and backs deserve a ton of credit for sticking with the game plan of re-establishing the team's identity in spite of the opponent's lofty standing as the #1 D in the NFL.

Baby Steps First

2010-11-30T21:07:00.001-08:00

After our 2 big blow-out victories (Den, Sea) and an inspiring 3 game winning streak, I honestly thought we had turned the corner. I'm not so sure anymore. As I mentioned on quite a few prior posts, the key is establishing a level of consistency.

Consistency in every sense of the word. We are more like Sybil. It is difficult and elusive to put your finger on our team in regards to performance and identity. From week to week it is any one's guess which team will show up.

QB play --- Who knows from one week to the next?

Playcalling --- Sometimes creative yet other times quite predictable and rudimentary.

Running Game --- At times dominant, persistent, and the team's identity ... other times MIA for no reason whatsoever. How does a player like McFadden go from a 20+ carry work-horse stud to a secondary feature in the running attack?

Run D --- It looked like an improvement only a few short weeks ago. In 2 successive weeks, a sieve.

From a 59-14 thrashing of the Donkeys to a 3-35 beatdown by the Steelers ... there simply is no rhyme or reason for the MAJOR roller coasters of this season.

This is an odd, exciting, surprising, and perplexing season all rolled into one.

On the bright side of things ...

There has been a noticeable uptick in terms of sustained effort by the team. No one is throwing in the towel at the end of games.

The team and individual players seem to have good chemistry, accountability, and a lack of negative, distracting, me-first behavior. No one that I know of on the team is making lame excuses or throwing anyone under the bus.

There seems to be a fairly good handle and realistic view of what it will take to truly turn the corner. In my judgment, it will be solid, reliable QB play, an upgraded and improved OLine, depth at WR, and a play-making,dynamic LB.

2010 is looking like the year we will take 1 necessary baby step forward towards climbing the competitive ladder. There is still a glimmer of hope if we can run the table vs. our divisional rivals and catch a few breaks. The min. magic number is 9 victories which would require an unlikely, Herculean 4 of 5 win effort.

A Star Is Born

2010-11-08T17:42:00.001-08:00

Raiders 23 - Condiments 20 (OT)

Rookie WR/KR Jacoby Ford had a breakthrough, star making performance yesterday. He became just the second player in NFL history to have at least 140 receiving yards and 150 kick return yards in a game during the Raiders 23-20 OT win over the Ketchup and Mustard men.

In this critical, bitter rivalry game, Ford had 6 receptions for 148 yards (24.7 avg.) and 158 kick return yards. More importantly, Ford made 4 pivotal, high impact plays.

Play 1 - "Take it to the House"
Setting: Raiders down 0-10 at the half and receive the kickoff to open 2nd half.
Play: 94 yard kickoff return TD
Impact: This play flipped the momentum and energy switch instantaneously.
Score Differential: From 0-10 to 7-10

Play 2 - "Creeping and Crawling"
Setting: Raiders up 14-13 at the beginning of the 4th quarter
Play: 37 yard reception where Ford came back for the ball, crawled, turned and made the catch.
Impact: This play set the Raiders up for an important lead stretching FG. Ford showed his determination and improvisational skills.
Score Differential: From 14-13 to 17-13

Play 3 - "Kleptomania"
Setting: Raiders down 17-20 with :25 left in the game
Play: 19 yard reception where Ford stole the ball from DB Flowers and made an acrobatic game saving catch.
Impact: This play put the Raiders in FG range to send the game into OT.
Score Differential: From 17-20 to 20-20

Play 4 - "Speed Kills!"
Setting: Raiders 1st offensive play in OT after forcing the Condiments into a 3 & out
Play: 47 yard reception where Ford tracked the deep strike from Campbell and made a final burst of acceleration to secure the ball.
Impact: This play put the Raiders in FG range to win in OT.
Score Differential: From 20-20 to 23-20 victory

Sea Chickens Wings Torn Apart

2010-11-01T18:24:00.000-07:00

Raiders 33 - Sea Chickens 3

For me, believe it or not, this destruction of the Sea Chickens somehow was more gratifying and fulfilling than the record setting Donkey beat down last week.

Why? Because it showed the team has finally turned the proverbial corner by playing solid, winning football in all 3 phases of the game for 4 full quarters IMMEDIATELY after a big win.

There was no let-down. The players didn't rest on their laurels. The coaching staff did an excellent job preparing the team. By executing the game plan and minimizing mistakes, the team established a much needed level of consistency. For the Raiders to become a playoff caliber team, it will need to continue to perform at a high level on a week to week basis.

The D was "lights-out" from the opening snap to the very end. This was without question, the best defensive effort in a VERY long time. In particular, an aggressive and effective pass rush was the key to disrupting the Sea Chickens pass offense and QB Hasselback's rhythm. Here are some of the more revealing defensive stats which indicates total domination:

* Seattle had a meager 162 total net yards (47 rushing, 115 passing)
* 8 sacks; Seymour (2); Wimbley (2); Branch; Shaughnessy; Houston; Kelly
* The Sea Chickens converted only 1 of 16 3rd down attempts (6% conversion rate)
* The average gain per play for Seattle was a microscopic 2.7 yards
* In the 1st half, the Sea Chickens make only 2 total first downs

Although the Raiders offense started slowly, it ended up with more total net yards (545) than in the Bronco annihilation. For the second straight week, the Raiders offense was very balanced (239 yards rushing; 306 yards passing) and opportunistic. 4 players accounted for plays of 40+ yards (McFadden 49 yard run; Reece 51 yard reception; Bush 53 yard reception; DHB 69 yards TD reception). Also for the second straight week, the offense had zero turnovers. With QB Campbell managing the game well and McFadden running for another 100+ yards day (21 carries, 111 yards, 5.28 avg), the offensive unit had a solid platform to insure the game was firmly in hand.

Up Next Week:

A huge divisional game at home vs. the 5-2 Condiments. What's interesting about this upcoming game with the Ketchup and Mustard men is that the teams are almost a mirror image of each other.

Rebuild R Us: 2 teams in the midst of rebuilding after many years of ineptitude finally turning the corner.

Game Managers: Campbell & Cassell

Youthful Explosion: Both teams are littered with young, key starters from the past 3 years' drafts.

Run, Run, Run: The strength of both teams is clearly the rushing attack with a multi-pronged, committee approach (McFadden & Charles; Bush & Jones)

Surprise Ds: Both in top 10

I give the Chefs the edge in their WR corps/depth (Bowe over our new #1 DHB).

I give the Raiders a noticeable edge in pass rush D.

Both teams want to establish the run, play action pass off the run, stop the other team's run at all costs.

The Raiders have played inspiring football in 3 of their last 4 games and have more momentum plus the home crowd. This game has the feel of a playoff game. It is the "Who is for real?" game. Ultimately, I believe it will come down to which team's run defense is more effective and does a better job limiting the big 15+ yard carries.

Run DMc Hits His Stride

2010-10-26T20:17:00.001-07:00

Raiders 59 - Donkeys 14

It is rather hard to believe but Darren McFadden just turned 23 a few months ago. Run DMc's performance vs. the Donkeys on Sunday was the super-charged engine that drove the Raiders to a record setting, awe-inspiring day.

#20 had some eye-popping stats (16 carries, 165 rushing yards, 10.3 average, 3 rushing TDs including a 57 yard video game romp; 2 receptions for 31 yards including a 19 yard reception on a 3rd and goal screen call from the 19 yard line).

Besides the bulging average per touch, what stuck me was his decisiveness with making his cuts and finishing his runs with violent vigor. This outstanding performance is the next step in his career progression. McFadden was well on his way to a fantastic 2010 before pulling his hamstring in week 4 just before the 1st half.

Here are his stats in the previous games:

Week 1 at Titans: 18 carries, 95 yards, 5.3 avg.
Week 2 vs. Rams: 30 carries, 145 yards, 4.8 avg.
Week 3 at Cards: 25 carries, 105 yards, 4.2 avg
Week 4 vs. Texans: 12 carries, 47 yards, 3.9 avg.

Missing weeks 5 and 6 vs. SD and SF, it was amazing for McFadden to have his career rushing day in his 1st time back on the field.

McFadden's 2010 Stats:

Rushing: 101 carries, 557 yards, 5.5 avg., 4 rushing TDs (3 of 5 games with 100+ yards)

Receiving: 18 receptions, 193 yards, 10.7 avg, 2 reception (please Huey ... dial up more screens to #20)

Misc. Notes and Comments:

This dismantling of the Donkeys was surreal. I had to do a double-take and calibrate the score and clock. I asked my buddy at one point "Is it really Raiders 21-0 with over 7 and half minutes to go in the 1st Quarter?!"

The morale of the team must be sky high after this type of win where every unit contributed mightily to a dominating team victory.

Rookie LT Veldheer had a "break-out" game and was clearly the key cog to spring McFadden loose. This was the type of game for Valdheer to cement his place as the starter at LT for the rest of the year. His size, quick feet, tenacity, and football IQ are a solid platform to become an elite LT.

To build momentum and take the next step in climbing the competitive ladder, the Raiders need to follow-up this victory by tearing the Sea Chickens' wings off next week. The team cannot ill afford to take the air out of the balloon by falling prey to the roller coaster syndrome where a good win is followed up by a bad loss. (ie. SD win followed by SF dud).

It is critical for the Raiders to establish a level of consistency in terms of effort and execution. In order to become a playoff caliber team, the team needs to start stringing together multiple wins. It all starts with an opportunity for the 1st back to back wins since December of 2008. Let's do this!

Flat, Listless, Inconsistent, and Uninspiring Raiders

2010-10-18T17:52:00.000-07:00

Raiders 9 - Niners 17

"Flat, Listless, Inconsistent, Uninspiring" is how I would describe the performance of the Raider players and coaching staff vs. the Niners. After opening the game with 2 decent offensive drives (13 plays, 79 yards, FG; 12 plays, 55 yards, FG), the offense went into hibernation. QB Campbell's indecisiveness and poor accuracy was painful to watch.

Instead of building on a 6-0 lead, the Raiders allowed the Niners to hang around by playing the worst, unimaginative, unproductive football this season (INT, 3-out, 3-out, 3-out, 3-out, 3-out, FG, 3-out, INT). After taking the lead early, the Raiders produced only 2 first downs in the final 9 possessions. For the day, the Raiders accumulated only 69 net yards passing.

When the Raiders offense was stuck in neutral, the team desperately needed OC Hue Jackson to make some critical in-game adjustments, get more creative with the playcalling, and attempt to light a spark in the offense. The offensive calls from the 3rd possession to the end of the game were predictable, stale, and completely vanilla. Why not stir the pot and give Boller a shot? Why not attempt a few trick plays or deep strike pass plays? The offense was in a rut yet there seemed to be no attempt to shake things up.

Although the Raiders defense can hardly be blamed for this loss, it lacked the big play ability to create more separation. LB McClain and CB Asomugha both had opportunities to come up with pivotal interceptions but were unable to secure the ball. Creating zero takaways kept the Niners on life support until they were finally able to get in the end zone largely on 3 plays (Crabtree 32 yd TD reception; Gore 64 yard run that led to Davis 17 yd TD).

This loss was the equivalent of a slow water torture. Personally, I'd rather see a team pull out all the stops in an attempt to win than dial it down to an auto-pilot comatose and try to hang on to a win.

13 Game Gorilla Rolls Off Raiders Backs

2010-10-11T19:16:00.000-07:00

Raiders 35 - Chargers 27

This game was the most exciting, big play filled, and inspirational Raider victory that I've witnessed in a very long time. To bust up the 13 game losing streak to the Chargers and the manner in which it was accomplished made it extra sweet. Never mind that the Raiders secondary was torched for 415 yards passing. Doesn't matter that the Chargers offense compiled 228 more yards and converted 15 more first downs. When push came to shove, this Raiders TEAM showed grit, heart, and were extremely opportunistic.

Here are some random comments and a chronological list of pivotal moments and extraordinary plays worth noting:

Opening Drive of the game: S.D. goes 3 and out; Rock Cartright stuffs Scifer's punt.

Result: Safety and early 2-0 lead.

Comment: Great start by D and Special Teams to get the fans energized.

2nd SD Drive: S.D. goes 3 and out; Brett Myers dives to block Scifer's punt attempt.

Result: Hiram Eugene scoops it up for an easy TD. Raiders 12-0 lead.

Comment: As my brother said, "The Chargers special teams coach will be flippin' burgers on Monday"

3rd SD Drive: SD offense churns out 5 first downs and moves from own 20 yard line down to the Raiders 1 yard line. On 3-1 and goal play, rarely used LB Ricky Brown stops RB Tolbert and causes a fumble recovered by Mike Mitchell.

Result: Raiders D denies Chargers in the red zone with a key, goal line takeaway.

Comment: 2 early themes for the day are established ... make a play when you have to and you don't have to be a "star" player to make impact plays. 1st 3 possessions by S.D. and the roll call is Cartright, Myers, Eugene, Brown, Mitchell.

4th SD Drive: After torching Routt for a 55 yard bomb to WR Floyd, the Chargers have the ball in the red zone once again. On 2-7 from the Raider 14 yard line, Matt Shaughnessy sacks QB Rivers and causes a fumble recovered by LaMar Houston.

Result: Raiders D denies the Chargers in the red zone with another opportunistic takeaway.

Comment: Shaughnessy deserves more snaps on the DLine. In my opinion, Shaughnessy is the most consistent and active DLineman in providing QB pressure. He is relentless in his pursuit of the QB and an unsung hero of the DLine.

Raiders 3rd Quarter Offensive Drive (7:31): Down 24-15 and starting the possession at their own 3 yard line, QB Campbell showed tremendous poise. After reflecting on this crazy game, in my mind, this series was the difference maker. If the Raiders offense stalls near the goal line, the Chargers are looking at a short field, momentum, and a chance to put their foot on the Raiders throat by potentially going up by 16.

Result: Campbell directs a balanced attack covering 97 yards and converting on 5 third downs culminating in a beautiful throw and catch by Zach Miller in the back of the end zone. Raiders right back in the game (SD 24 - Oak 22).

Comment: When the Campbell TD was challenged by Norv Turner all I could think was "Oh no, here we go again with the refs screwin' us!". It was a mini deja vu moment of the Murphy TD in the opener last year.

Raiders 4th Quarter Offensive Drive (11:55): After the Chargers kicked a FG to press their lead to 27-22, the Raiders offense answers the call again. This drive had key completions to Murphy, Miller including a gutsy 4-1 call where TE Myers went out in the flat and picked up 12 yards.

Result: Raiders take the lead on a Bush 3 yard TD run. Raiders 28 - Chargers 27

Comment: With McFadden out, Bush steps up for 100+ yards. When Ski went down, Campbell moved the offense efficiently.

S.D. Offensive Series (Own 28 yard line; 3:31) : With plenty of time on the clock, 3 time outs, and only needing a FG, the Chargers looked to be in a position to put the Raider fans' hearts in a blender. As the Chargers stormed easily up the field, gaining 4 1st downs completions to the Raiders 34 yard line, the game was on the line. DC Marshall dials up the blitz pressure ... better late than never.

Result: Safety Michael Huff makes the play of the game. Instead of Huff going for a sack, he wisely attacked Rivers throwing arm causing a fumble. Safety Tyvon Branch scoops up the fumble and takes it 64 yards to paydirt. Raiders 35 - Chargers 27

Comment: This play completely flipped the script. Instead of another close heartbreaking loss, the Raiders finished the job with a knock out.

Red Zone Amateur Hour

2010-09-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

Cardinals 24 - Raiders 23

SeaBass was an obvious choice to wear the goat horns in this heartbreaking loss to the Red Birds. Missing a 32 yard chip shot with 00:04 on the clock was the ultimate choke job. However, if you view the game as a 60:00 contest, the offensive unit and OC/Playcaller Hue Jackson should shoulder the majority of blame. In 5 red zone possessions, the Raiders came away with a paltry 13 points. If you were to categorize the outcome of 5 red zone possessions, the grading scale should look something like this:

15 points - 5 easy FGs, 0 TDs; "running on empty" (1 star out of 5)
19 points - 4 easy FGs, 1 TD; "1st gear" (1.5 stars)
23 points - 3 easy FGs, 2 TDs; "efficient" (2.5 stars)
27 points - 2 easy FGs, 3 TDs; "well oiled machine" (3.5 stars)
31 points - 1 easy FG, 4 TDs; "robust" (4 stars)
35 points - 0 FGs, 5 TDs; "juggernaut" (5 stars)

When you look at the cliff notes version of the 5 red zone possessions and realize that if the Raiders were merely inept (15 points) instead of atrocious (13 points), this game should have been in the win column.

1st Red Zone Possession-> 1st and 10 from the AZ 7 yard line
- D.McFadden left tackle to ARZ 4 for 3 yards
- B.Gradkowski pass incomplete short right to D.McFadden
- B.Gradkowski pass incomplete short right to Z.Miller
- S.Janikowski 22 yard field goal is GOOD
Comment: Really Huey? On 2nd down from the 4 yard line, did you think about giving Ski a Pass/Run option or a delayed QB draw or emptying the backfield? The playcalling was uncreative and execution subpar.

2nd Red Zone Possession-> 1st and 3 from the AZ 3 yard line
- (No Huddle) B.Gradkowski up the middle to ARZ 2 for 1 yard
- D.McFadden left tackle for 2 yards, TOUCHDOWN
Comment: Good use of no huddle on 1st down and solid execution on 2nd down

3rd Red Zone Possession-> 1st and 10 from the AZ 13 yard line
- D.McFadden left tackle to ARZ 10 for 3 yards. PENALTY on M.Henderson, Offensive Holding, 10 yards, enforced at ARZ 13
- D.McFadden right end to ARZ 23 for no gain
- B.Gradkowski pass incomplete short right to DHB
- B.Gradkowski pass incomplete short right to Z.Miller
- S.Janikowski 41 yard field goal is No Good, Wide Right
Comment: The Raiders are at the 13 yard line and "Super Mario" holds on a running play backing the Raiders up 10 yards. It is one thing to hold when in pass protection to save your QB from a beatdown but to do so inside the 20 on a running play is a complete meltdown.

4th Red Zone Possession-> 1st and 1 from the AZ 1 yard line
- M.Bush left tackle to ARZ 1 for no gain
- PENALTY on OAK-B.Gradkowski, Delay of Game
- (Shotgun) B.Gradkowski pass incomplete short right to DHB
- (Shotgun) B.Gradkowski pass incomplete short right to DHB
- S.Janikowski 23 yard field goal is GOOD
Comment: This one is entirely on Ski. If you were to isolate 1 play that truly cost the Raiders the game, this is it. It was 2nd down on the 1 foot line and he had no clock awareness.

5th Red Zone Possession-> 1st and 10 from the AZ 13 yard line (:55)
- D.McFadden up the middle to ARZ 17 for -4 yards
- D.McFadden up the middle to ARZ 14 for 3 yards
- (:04) S.Janikowski 32 yard field goal is No Good, Wide Left

Summary: 5 offensive possessions with 1st down on the 13 yard line or better.
FG, TD, missed FG, FG, missed FG. Make the FGs and add 1 TD and that is a 13 point swing.

Until the Raiders solve their red zone ineptitude, the team will continue to flounder. The "Red Zone" should be called the "Green Zone" because it is an opportunity for a team to "Go" instead of "Stop" and a time for offensive personnel to earn their greenbacks.

Photo Of The Week

2010-09-20T21:42:00.001-07:00

Silence of the Lambs: Rolando "Die Hard" McClain with the 1 arm, body slammin' pile driver.

Ski - The Game Changer

2010-09-20T19:21:00.001-07:00

Raiders 16 - Rams 14

Cable made a bold move at half-time to make a game changing and perhaps season altering switch at QB.

The Raiders offense was completely listless in the 1st half of action with Campbell under center. Scoring a measly 3 points in spite of good overall field position was the impetus for Cable's decision. Down 7-3 at half-time and facing the possibility of being buried at 0-2, Cable decisively called Bruce Gradkowski's number.

Truth be told, Cable owes Ski a debt of gratitude for more than likely saving his job last season. If it wasn't for Ski's come from behind victories vs. Cincy and Pittsburgh, Cable would have been facing a 3-13 season and unemployed. Once again, Ski saved Cable's bacon by getting the Raiders offense back on track.

Ski instantly changed the outlook and vibe of the game by coming in, taking total command of the offensive unit, and leading the Raiders to a FG and TD in his first 2 drives.

The spill-over affect of Ski's insertion into the game and a Raider 13-7 lead pushed the energy level up a few extra notches. The crowd became alive, loud, and animated yelling "BRUUUUUUUUUUUUUCE!", the defense got their mojo back by gang tackling Stephen Jackson, and the Raiders offensive skill players played with more confidence. Darren McFadden demonstrated his ability to be a work-horse back by accounting for 30 carries, 145 yards, and a 4.8 average. WRs Louis Murphy (6 receptions, 91 yards, 1 TD, long of 27 yards) and DHB (6 receptions, 80 yards, long of 33 yards) were in rhythm and on the same page as Ski.

The difference between the energy and confidence level of the team with Campbell and Ski was quite noticeable. The intangibles that Ski brings to the table such as moxie and an iron will passes the simple "eye-ball" test every time. It is as clear as day that the players respond positively and rally around Ski.

Added Bonus Video:

This play by rookie LB Rolando McClain might have earned a 15 yard "unsportsmanlike conduct" penalty but it is the type of play of pure aggression that has The Assassin beaming from above.

Titans 38 - Raiders 13

2010-09-13T17:32:00.001-07:00

This opener at Tennessee was a sad reminder that the pre-season is completely meaningless. The 2 biggest concerns going into the opener reared their ugly heads:

** OLine Pass Protection and WRs production **

The Raiders OLine looked inept and could not protect Campbell. In particular, "Super" Mario Henderson almost got Campbell killed ... again. During the preseason vs. SF, Henderson whiffed and allowed DE LaBoy a “kill-shot” on Campbell’s blind side. Both Walker and Henderson were turnstiles when facing speed rushers. If it wasn’t for Campbell’s mobility, there would have been even more carnage. On top of poor pass protection, the OLine was very undisciplined with countless penalties and miscues on center exchanges.

The WRs were non-existent, non-factors in the passing game. 8 total receptions for 58 total yards. When your QB is scrambling for his life, the WRs need to have more awareness to make themselves available by breaking off and improvising their routes. It becomes a school-yard fire drill where the WR needs to become a viable target.

Total WR Production vs. Tennessee:
-> Murphy 4 receptions - 28 yards
-> Figurs 2 receptions - 17 yards
-> DHB 1 reception - 11 yards
-> JLH 1 reception - 2 yards

When your #1, Top WR, accounts for 28 measly yards in the passing game, it is not a good sign.

Sure it is only 1 game but it was an epic failure and uncompetitive football on all counts. All 3 units (offense, defense, special teams) played poorly. Basic football fundamentals (blocking, tackling, stopping the run, getting open and catching the ball) were sorely missing.

I'm hopeful that we will correct and tighten up our pass blocking plus find a way for our WRs to be legit, productive pass catching threats.

CJ's 5 Keys vs. Titans

2010-09-11T11:55:00.001-07:00

1. Contain Chris Johnson by minimizing the big, back breaking 10+ yard run gashes.

Our front 7 will need to put a huge emphasis on staying disciplined with their run fits and gap assignments but most importantly, do a good job of wrapping Johnson up to allow other defenders to rally to the ball.

2. Keep Vince Young in the pocket.

The edge rushers (Trevor Scott, Matt Shaunnessey, and LaMar Houston need to be aware of VY’s ability to get outside of the pocket, pull the ball down and pick up big chunks of yardage. This will require the DEs to be able to disengage from their blocker and force VY inside towards other defenders. Rolondo McClain will need to keep a vigilant eye on VY as well.

3. Find some semblance of a rush offense through a committee approach.

With Michael Bush questionable to play in the game, McFadden, Bennett, and Cartright will need to step up their games with an increased work load. Keeping the down and distance manageable will be dictated by the committee getting positive yards of 2,3,4,5 yards instead of getting stonewalled at the line of scrimmage.

4. Offensive Game Management

OC Hue Jackson and QB Jason Campbell need to devise and execute the game plan effectively. Keep the Titans pass rushers at bay incorporating the RBs & FB into the passing game with a variety of screens and delayed outlet passes.

5. Turnover battle, winning the field position game, and red zone efficiency.

The 3 elements above often dictate the difference between a win and a loss.

Final 53 Man Roster

2010-09-05T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here's the final 53 man Raider Roster with added comments for each positional group:

QUARTERBACKS (3)_Jason Campbell, Bruce Gradkowski, Kyle Boller.

-> The Raiders traded for Campbell who has the most career starts in the group. His accuracy and steady leadership will be critical to manage the game. The key will be Campbell's proficiency in the red zone. Ski has proven that he is more than a capable back-up and is 1 play away from being the signal caller. Boller had an excellent pre-season and has a solid working relationship with OC Jackson. Overall this group is solid with good depth.

RUNNING BACKS (4)_Michael Bush, Darren McFadden, Rock Cartwright, Michael Bennett

-> It was imperative to carry both Cartwright and Bennett due to the recent injuries of Bush and McFadden. The running game never got in gear this off-season and is a concern going into the regular season. Best case scenario is for Bush to return in a few weeks and for McFadden to be utilized as a multi-purpose skilled player in space.

FULL BACKS (1)_Marcel Reece

-> Reece is an excellent pass catching threat out of the backfield but needs to improve dramatically as a lead blocker. Luke Lawton will more than likely return after his 2 game suspension. Lawton is a more traditional power blocker.

WIDE RECEIVERS (7)_Chaz Schilens, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Louis Murphy, Jacoby Ford, Johnnie Lee Higgins, Nick Miller, Yamon Figurs.

-> This is the most inexperienced, least productive WR group in the NFL, bar none. The Raiders desperately need to sign 1 veteran WR to provide Campbell a reliable, chain moving complement to the passing game.

TIGHT ENDS (2)_Zach Miller, Brandon Myers.

-> I would expect the Raiders offense to incorporate 2 TE sets more than usual due to the subpar WR corps. Miller is on the cusp of becoming a Pro Bowl candidate and Myers is a solid pass catcher. Both men are average at best run blockers. My biggest concern for Miller is that teams will naturally adjust their game plan to make it difficult for Miller to make a big impact.

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN (10)_Mario Henderson, Robert Gallery, Jared Veldheer, Cooper Carlisle, Langston Walker, Khalif Barnes, Samson Satele, Daniel Loper, Erik Pears, Bruce Campbell.

-> It will be very interesting to see if Veldheer can lock down the center position. A 6'7" rookie from a division 2 college starting at center day 1 is an unlikely and interesting story. This group is filled with some major question marks and uncertainty. The only rock solid starter is Gallery at guard. The key will be Henderson re-gaining his pass blocking form to protect Campbell's blind side.

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN (7)_Matt Shaughnessy, Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly, Lamarr Houston, John Henderson, Desmond Bryant, Trevor Scott

-> I'm genuinely thrilled about our DLine's talent and depth. Shaughnessey, Houston, and Scott are very capable edge rushers. Moving Seymour inside strengthens our interior run D. If this group can get 20 solid snaps from Big John Henderson, it bodes well for a very productive rotation.

LINEBACKERS (7)_Kamerion Wimbley, Rolando McClain, Thomas Howard, Ricky Brown, Travis Goethel, Quentin Groves, Sam Williams.

-> Wimbley is the 1st SLB the Raiders have had since Romo who can neutralize the full back on power sweeps. McClain's football IQ is off the charts. Both Wimbley and Scott (listed as a DL but will play WLB) are excellent pass rushers. The biggest concern is the unit's ability to defend RBs and TEs on pass plays.

DEFENSIVE BACKS (9)_Nnamdi Asomugha, Chris Johnson, Tyvon Branch, Michael Huff, Mike Mitchell, Walter McFadden, Jeremy Ware, Stanford Routt, Hiram Eugene.

-> It is my hope that Asomugha will be given the liberty to change up his assignment and not be isolated in outside coverage on the same side of the field. It would be wise to get Asomugha more involved by matching him up with the other team's #1 WR, moving him into the slot on some 3rd downs, playing more zone coverage, and blitzing from the edge. CJ had a poor pre-season and Huff needs to improve in his open field tackling.

SPECIAL TEAMS (3)_Shane Lechler, Sebastian Janikowski, Jon Condo (LS)

-> Lechler & SeaBass are the best pair in the NFL. The special teams unit needs to improve dramatically on kick and punt coverage. Jacoby Ford should be given the opportunity to handle the return game.

R.I.P. Jack Tatum

2010-07-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

“I like to believe that my best hits border on felonious assault.” - Jack Tatum

Jack "The Assassin" Tatum, a true Raider legend and iconic figure in the Raider Nation, passed away today at the age of 61 due to a heart attack.

Tatum was drafted by the Raiders in the 1st round (19th pick) in 1971 out of OSU and became notorious for being arguably the hardest hitting safety to ever play in the NFL. During his tenure with the Raiders (1971-1979), Tatum earned 3 Pro Bowl trips, racked up 37 interceptions, and helped the Raiders win their 1st Super Bowl.

Tatum's intimidating presence, ultra-cool swagger, and menacing stare gave the Raiders defense an original identity and place in football lore. The "Soul Patrol" of Tatum, George "The Hitman" Atkinson, Skip "Dr. Death" Thomas, and "Old Man" Willie Brown were a riveting group to watch.

Six years ago I had the good fortune of meeting Tatum and getting his autograph at a Raiders fundraiser for FB Steve Smith. I knew that I would only have a minute or 2 to say a few words to Tatum since there was a huge line of Raider fans behind me. I ended up simply saying, "It was an honor and privilege to watch you play for the Raiders, Mr. Tatum. Thank you." Tatum, grey dreadlocks and sunglasses on, sitting behind a desk, handed the picture back and gave me a subtle nod.

Here's a classic video of highlights showcasing Tatum & Atkinson. R.I.P., Mr. Tatum.

He Just Doesn't Get It

2010-07-21T21:31:00.000-07:00

JaMarcus Russell has no sense of humility, comportment or simple common sense. The guy appears before a court judge facing a serious crime for possession of a controlled substance and decides to wear a suit with the flashing monogram of "JR"?

Only a complete knucklehead with a severe case of entitlement would be foolish enough to sport such an inappropriate "get-up" to a court appearance. Yeah, JR you are suited and booted ... for flushing a once promising life down the drain. Congrats!

Make A Wish, Jalen

2010-07-21T21:22:00.000-07:00

Here's a very heart-warming, inspirational video worth a viewing.

The Big Dummy

2010-07-05T19:37:00.001-07:00

JaMarcus Russell was arrested today in his Mobile Alabama home for possession of a controlled substance (codeine syrup aka "Purple Drank") as part of an undercover narcotics investigation.

"Purple Drank is an illegal recreational drink popular in the Southern United States rap community, whose main ingredients originally consisted of prescription strength cough syrup, containing codeine and promethazine, and either a carbonated soft drink (generally Sprite) or fruit juice. The purple-ish hue of Purple Drank comes from the dyes in the cough syrup. Recently, the term has expanded to cover mixtures including over-the-counter cough syrup and vodka in place of prescription cough syrup. Other terms for Purple Drank include Barre, Oil, Purple Tonic, Lean (or Southern Lean,) Drank, and Syrup (which is sometimes slangly pronounced as Sizzurp.)
The active ingredient of purple drank is codeine, an opiate medication contained in prescription strength cough syrups due to its antitussive properties. Some prescription cough syrups also contain anti-histamine medications, such as promethazine, which have a mild sedative effect. When taken in large quantities, both medications can lead to sedation and altered levels of consciousness."

Here's a guy who at the ripe old age of 21 was given a golden ticket to a wonderful life that included fame, fortune, and playing a sport he loved. All he needed to do to punch this golden ticket is be a good teammate and a good citizen. Is that too much to ask?

Russell was notorious for being late to meetings, being unable to handle the entire playbook, showing up to mini-camps out of shape and ill prepared, and with his recent release from the Raiders, as the biggest draft bust in the entire history of the league.

Is there any doubt that the "purple drank" was a significant part of the equation in Russell's failures the past 3 years? After being booted from the Raiders, Russell had a second chance to get his life and career back on track this season or next if he simply dedicated himself to his craft. Oh well. The Big Dummy should be able to afford a good attorney and continue to piss his life down the drain.

Making Cents

2010-05-06T18:41:00.000-07:00

This off-season just keeps getting better and better ... QB JaMarcus Russell was released today. This deliberate and decisive move saves the organization $6.45M and the players and coaching staff from the unnecessary distraction of Russell polluting the field with his negative energy. A new era in Raider football feels like it is officially underway. Brilliant! No one, and I mean nobody, has ever been a more skilled check casher in the history of the NFL. Russell had the supreme,top-level skills to get an ink pen, endorse the back of the check and slide it to the teller. As $39M circles the drain in Alameda, it is time to put this ugly chapter behind us with truly a fresh start.

New Era - New Signal Callers

2010-04-27T18:51:00.000-07:00

With JaMarcus Russell about to get his departure ticket punched in a matter of days, the Raiders start 2010 with some very important new signal callers.

The addition of Offensive Coordinator Hue Jackson dialing up plays from the sideline adds a fresh new dynamic to our offensive sets. Incorporating the spread offense and a more creative call sheet plus utilizing RB Darren McFadden in a diversified package should give the offense more big play opportunities. Head Coach Tom Cable can now concentrate on managing the game, personnel, and coaching staff without worrying about play calling.

The trade for QB Jason Campbell, who will be communicating the calls in the huddle and making the necessary adjustments at the line of scrimmage, gives the offense a more reliable decision maker. Instead of the playbook being contracted ("QB Playbook For Dummies"), it now can be expanded for a QB who has adapted to 8 different OC's over the course of his college and pro career.

#8 pick MLB Rolando McClain aka "double nickel" has an unbelievably high football IQ. “The day after they drafted me, I called to ask for a playbook and some DVDs to look over,’’ McClain said. “I didn’t waste any time.’’ With McClain barking out the defensive calls and orchestrating the defensive alignments on the field, the defensive unit should be more cohesive and in better position to make more plays.

Jackson, Campbell, and McClain all play a pivotal role in 2010 in terms of impacting the final tally on the scoreboard and most importantly, the wins and losses column.

Fixing, Upgrading, Wheeling & Dealing

2010-04-25T14:13:00.000-07:00

Over the course of the past few weeks to include of course the 2010 NFL Draft, the Raiders organization has followed a simple, sensible blueprint for improving the team.

1. Acquire young NFL vets to address needs and upgrade the talent level.

Instead of over-spending on older players on the downside of their career, the Raiders picked up QB Jason Campbell for a 2012 4th round pick, LB Kamerion Wimbley for one of their extra 3rd round picks this year, and DE Quinten Groves for a 5th round pick.

2. Improve our run defense.

The Raiders run defense was ranked #28 in ypc (4.5) and ranked #29 in ypg (155.5) in 2009. The additions of 1st round selection Rolando McClain (Alabama) and 2nd round pick Lamar Houston (Texas) helps our interior run defense.

The center-piece to our improved interior run defense falls on the broad shoulders of McClain whose football IQ is off the charts. He is a born leader and field general that will help orchestrate better team defense. Here are a few attributes listed in McClain's scouting report:

Rolando McClain, 6-4/256

• Huge frame for ILB
• Very long arms
• Good level of production
• Comfortable in coverage
• Excellent tackling technique
• Stacks and sheds blocks well
• Very good pass rusher
• Love his timing on blitzes
• Nice agility; smooth change of direction
• Highly experienced
• Takes good angles to the ball
• Stays in control
• Vocal leader
• Intelligent
• Doesn't take plays off
• Outstanding instincts

Here's the draft analysis on Lamar Houston, 6-3/305:

"The hulking interior defender is an exceptional athlete with outstanding strength and power. He is capable of stacking blockers at the point of attack, but also possesses the quickness to play as an up-field penetrator. Given the Raiders' woes on defense, the addition of Houston will undoubtedly shore up some of the problems." inside.

My guess is that Richard Seymour will see his fair share of snaps playing DT and Houston will be used both as a DT and DE. Our projected front 7:

LDE-Shaughnessy/Houston; UT-Kelly/Houston; NT-Bryant/Seymour; RDE-Seymour/Richardson

WLB-Scott/Howard; MLB-McClain/Nixon/Goethel; SLB-Wimbley/Brown

3. Upgrade our QB play
Jason Campbell is quite simply the "Anti-Russell". Campbell is everything that a fan should expect out of a professional QB with the key word being 'professional'. No one has to worry about whether our new starting QB is well prepared, knows the playbook, and in top shape. Campbell is an athletic, durable QB who started in all 32 Washington games over the past 2 seasons. He is an accurate (64.5% in 2009; 61.2% career) passer with good mobility.

4. Add talent, depth, and competition at OLine.

This remains a work-in-progress. Although we drafted 2 OTs with a ton of "upside" and athletic talent in Jared Veldheer and Bruce Campbell, both of these prospects would seem to be 2-3 year projects.

Round 3, Pick 5 (69) - Jared Veldheer, OT,6'8" 312, Hillsdale

Pick Analysis: "The Raiders go with small-school standout Jared Veldheer to compete for time at offensive tackle. Though he dominated inferior competition in college, his impressive performance in pre-draft workouts showcased his immense potential as a pro."

Round 4, Pick 8 (106)- Bruce Campbell, OT, 6'6" 314, Maryland

Pick Analysis: "The Raiders pick up the most athletic offensive tackle from the NFL Scouting Combine with their selection of Bruce Campbell. Though many expected the team to nab him in the first round, the Raiders patiently waited to acquire him with the 106th pick. While he is raw in several aspects of his game, Campbell's outstanding athleticism gives him a chance to develop into a solid player in time."

5. Improve our KR/PR abilities.

Last season the Raiders return units were horrendous. Our KR unit ranked last with a 18.2 yards per kick return average. The Raiders PR unit ranked #29 at 4.9 yards per punt return. 4th round pick, Jacoby Ford (Clemson), should be able to create a spark on special teams and improve our field position. He is also a good prospect to be a slot WR.

Round 4, Pick 10 (108) (From Jaguars) - Jacoby Ford, WR, 5'9" 186, Clemson

Pick Analysis: "The Raiders continue their tradition of selecting outstanding track athletes with the addition of Jacoby Ford. The former track All-America has exceptional speed and quickness, and gives the team a versatile receiver/returner. With his explosiveness, Ford could develop into an impact player for the Silver and Black."

Rebuilding instead of reaching ... what a wonderful concept.

Raider REM Sleep

2010-04-20T19:12:00.000-07:00

It's a big week in the NFL with the schedule coming out today and the draft coming up on Thursday. It looks like the Raiders caught a couple of advantageous breaks with the 2010 schedule.

The ideal time to have your team's bye week are weeks 8-11 due to the grind and brutality of a 16 game regular season. Fortunately, the Raiders' bye week is week 10. The other component to the 2010 Raiders schedule that works to our favor is the limited amount of traveling for road games. Besides the opener at Tennessee, the Raiders don't travel any farther than Denver in the 1st 10 weeks. The other early road games are at Arizona, at San Francisco, and at Denver.

With the way that the draft boards seem to be lining up and the unsettling draft rumors, I am feeling a bit nauseous. It is looking like the 3 best OTs (Okung, Williams, Bulaga) will be taken by the Skins, Chiefs, and Seahawks. Instead of reaching for workout warrior and gold medal winner in the Underwear Olympics (Bruce Campbell), I would love to see us trade down or do a "mini-reach" for one of the following prospects:

- Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
- Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, Florida
- Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
- Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
- Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee

My dream case scenario is that either Washington, Kansas City, or Seattle goes in an unexpected direction and bypasses an OT for another positional player. If one of the top 3 OTs falls in our lap, I would be thrilled, elated, and relieved. If this doesn't happen, I would at least take comfort in knowing that we picked up one of the above 5 listed prospects who have been highly productive college players and won't be considered a project like Bruce Campbell. Not only had Campbell only started 17 games but he has an injury history and very raw technique. The best that the team could hope for out of Campbell is that he becomes a more refined player by 2012.

Last but not least ... another wonderful early Christmas present for the Nation would be Davis hiring former 49er GM Scot McCloughlan. McLoughlan can be signed by another team immediately following the draft. He is a well respected, highly qualified young football executive who could lessen Davis' load and provide some fresh ideas in terms of personnel and rebuilding the team. The fact that McCloughlan's dad is a longtime scout and former player with the Raiders makes this the proverbial "no brainer". It just makes too much damn sense for our 82 year old Owner/GM to get some executive help and another set of highly qualified ears and eyes.

"And with the 8th selection of the 2010 draft ... the Raiders select Offensive Tackle Trent Williams from the University of Oklahoma."

AP Headline on 4/26: The Oakland Raiders ink Scot McCloughlan as Personnel Director.

Trent Williams, Scot McCloughlan, and a fresh new schedule ... don't wake me up from these pleasant dreams.

Game of Death

2010-02-10T19:07:00.001-08:00

I view the Raider fan experience partly through the lens of goals being met and the corresponding level of satisfaction from the team achieving these goals.

Think of it as "The Game of Death". Upon entering the house (or ground level) you fight your way to the top floor of the building with the ultimate goal to kick Kareem Abdul Jabbar's butt. As you advance each floor, the goal becomes increasingly more diffiuclt to achieve.

What has been troubling and disappointing these past 7 seasons is that we are not even taking baby steps towards reaching these goals/levels of satisfaction. We are still at the ground level.

Goal 1: Build a competitive team. I would argue that a competitive team is 8-8 or better.

Goal 2: Build a legitimate playoff contender. If you are still in the hunt for a playoff berth in the month of December, you have met this criteria.

Goal 3: Earn a playoff berth.

Goal 4: Advance in the playoffs.

Goal 5: Go to the Super Bowl

Goal 6: Win the Super Bowl

If you look at the past Raider teams who have met goals 3-6, there are a few common denominators;

-> Good to above average QB
-> Good to above average HC
-> A GM on board working in partnership with Davis

How are we doing on the above 3 fronts? Poorly. Currently we have a QB who is more committed to visiting his jeweler than the gym. Cable is having a difficult time establishing himself worthy of a leadership position let alone hold on to his job. The GM role has been vacant since Bruce Allen departed and is being mismanaged by our 80 year old owner.

There is a HUGE difference between REAL hope and FAKE optimism. When you have a solid QB, HC, GM, and Owner working in partnership and stability, then you've got a franchise on the cusp of greatness.

I like to look at it as a building a sturdy, 4 legged table. The 4 legs represent leadership; QB, HC, GM, Owner. The table itself represents the franchise itself. The table top is built to support and showcase the SB trophy.

The owner needs to pick the GM and give the GM and HC the necessary authority and trust to do their jobs. The GM needs to identify his HC to execute the game plan and maximize the personnel. The HC needs to identify his QB to build a championship caliber team. The QB needs to lead his team on the field, in the huddle, on the practice field, and in the locker room.

7-11

2010-01-04T22:19:00.000-08:00

The Raiders finished the 2009 season setting a new NFL record in ineptitude. The Ravens beat the Raiders primarily by doing the 3 things that most good teams do;

(1) Run the ball (240 net yards rushing; 6.9 YPC)
(2) Stop the run (Raiders ran for 51 total yards; 2.5 YPC)
(3) Win the turnover battle (Raiders had 2 turnovers; Ravens 0 turnovers)

The Raiders lines got beat down on both sides of the ball. Frye got knocked out of the game at the end of the 1st half because the OLine could not protect him. Russell came into the game in the 2nd half and had a costly INT and fumble. Game over. Season over.

The 7-11 store logo is in reference to the dubious distinction of 7 consecutive seasons with 11 or more losses.

2003: 4-12 "The Dumbest Team in America" Bill Callahan

2004: 5-11 Norvell "Deer in Headlights" Turner's 1st year

2005: 4-12 Norv Deux 2: The infamous "Norv Face" on the sidelines

2006: 2-14 Shell II: 7 step drop designed by B&B Walsh

2007: 4-12 Lance Kiffin: "Im In" but looking to get out as soon as possible

2008: 5-11 1/4 Lance + 3/4 Cableman = Hang another 11 loss season in the rafters

2009: 5-11 Consistency is a foreign word when Russell & DHB are in the lineup

This post might sound like I'm negative. For the life of me, I would love to feel more optimistic about the upcoming 2010 season. However, the status quo of an 80 year old owner wearing too many hats (owner, GM, Personnel Director, Board Director, etc) and a Head Coach who has no business being the playcaller and OC doesn't bring sunshine and rainbows to me. The obvious remedy and sensible solution is to hire a capable GM to help shoulder the football operations load.

One of the MOST important roles a newly hired GM would play in Alameda is a mediator and trusted advisor. A mediator between the HC and Davis. The reason we enjoyed so much success in the Gruden/Allen years was that Allen provided a buffer or conduit of communication between Gruden and Davis.

The reality is that Gruden, Allen, and Davis worked in an imperfect yet successful partnership. To think that Davis does not need executive support at age 80 going on 81 is bending spoons. I feel like a starving man who is offered 1 saltine cracker. That cracker looks like a buffet ... I would gladly take ANY executive support over the status quo of Davis wearing all the hats. Take the Gruden/Allen duo out of the equation and the last 25 years has been a complete, unequivocal failure.

To get us out of the 7-11 store, Davis needs to take a long look in the mirror and ask himself 2 simple question, "Do I need executive support?" and "Is winning the #1 priority?". Once these questions are answered affirmatively, tangible change can take place and real hope will be realized.

Is Cable The Right Guy for 2010?

2009-12-31T21:13:00.000-08:00

The Raiders sit at 5-10 going into the finale vs. the Ravens. One of the important decisions going into next year is the status of Head Coach Tom Cable. If I was to base my opinion solely on the game vs. the Browns, I would vote for Cable to be demoted to OLine coach. What concerns me is some of Cable quotes after the game more than the actual failures to perform his job.

(1) Playcalling - Facing 1st and goal from the 2 yard line, Cable called 4 consecutive pass plays.

Quote: The decision not to run the ball or have Frye execute a run-pass option to the outside, Cable said the plays were "check with me" or dictated by the look of Cleveland's D.

Reality: You are 2 yards away from cutting the deficit to a TD. You have a RB (Bush) who averages 5.0 yards per carry and weighs 245 lbs and you don't run the ball at least 1 time? Cable as the Head Coach can "dictate" the playcall regardless of what the Cleveland D shows. I don't care if there are 11 defenders stacked in the box. It is totally inexcusable to not allow your RB 1 crack at picking up 2 tough yards.

(2) Personnel Management - RB Michael Bush had 9 carries for 50 yards in the 1st half. In the 2nd half he had 1 carry in the 3rd quarter. Why on earth does Cable have Charlie Frye, who has had only a handful of starts the past 3 years, chucking the ball 45 times?

Quote: Cable thought game circumstances stripped his team of "who we are" in terms of running in the 2nd half.

Reality: The Browns are one of the worst teams in the entire NFL at stopping the run. The score is 17-9 going into the 2nd half. There is ample time to use the run to sustain drives and cut the lead. Why on earth does Cable ice Bush when Bush just came off of a 100+ yard performance vs. the Broncos? 1 carry in the entire 2nd half? This goes against all football common sense.

(3) Leadership - As the 2nd quarter spun out of control with multiple penalty flags, personal fouls, and ejections (Routt, Stewart), where was Cable to reset the team's focus? Cable had numerous options as it unfolded. He could call a time-out and talk to the entire unit. He could yank one of the offending players off the field to cool off. He could get in the face of the officiating crew, bend their ear, and stand up for his team. Instead Cable sat idly on the sideline passively.

(4) Accountability - Either Cable has been watching a different season or has an inflated self worth but his assessment of his of own game management skills need to be checked.

Quote: On what he does exceptionally ... "I think I managed it as well as you can under the circumstances and what goes into the decision making, the opportunities to score points and do things throughout games." Cable said. "Certainly in game management I hear a lot of compliments from others that way, feel like that's a strength and I do that well."

Reality: Cable's playcalling skills has been erratic. His management and useage of personnel (Russell, DHB, Bush) has been questionable. Some will say that his hands were tied by Davis which is partly true. If Cable strongly believed that Russell and DHB needed the hook after the first 5 games or so this season, the burden falls on his shoulders to lobby, advocate, and persuade Davis. The way that he has utilized his best all around RB throughout the season has been nothing short of negligent.

Besides another double digit loss season, another factor in the demotion/termination of Cable is 7 losses of 14 or more points (Den, Hou, NYG, NYJ, Dal, Wash, Clev). 5 of these less than competitive games were by a margin of 20 points or more points.

The proponents for Cable returning as Head Coach in 2010 have a few good points to ponder. In no particular order, these are the considerations;

(1) The players genuinely like and play hard for Cable.
(2) The Raiders had good wins against playoff caliber teams (Philly, Cin, Pitt, Den).
(3) Bad QB play by Russell (and shoved down his throat for 9 games by Davis) killed Cable's chances for success in 2009.
(4) Cable seems to have a good working relationship with owner Al Davis.
(5) The importance of stability at Head Coach.
(6) Limited viable replacements for Cable.
(7) Cable has been thrown into the fire and is steadily learning/growing on the job.

One possible alternative is to keep Cable at Head Coach but find an offensive coordinator such as Marc Trestman to support him in his playcaling duties and be on deck for HC in 2011. In any other organization, this decision would be a no brainer ... Cable would receive his pink slip immediately following the Ravens game. 9-18, .333 winning percentage would normally warrant a dismissal. In an ironic and cruel twist of fate, Russell's poor performance might buy Cable an additional year.

Merry Christmas, Raider Nation

2009-12-25T13:13:00.000-08:00

Silver and Black Forever wishes the Raider Nation a very MERRY Christmas and a wonderful New Year. GO Raiders!

More Bush

2009-12-22T21:52:00.000-08:00

One of the bones I have to pick with HC Tom Cable is the way he has employed his personnel. Specifically, it is inexcusable how he played DHB and Michael Bush. In the case of DHB, he had no business being the starter and getting the majority of reps. in the 1st 11 games in spite of palty production. 11 games, 9 receptions and 1 TD for our #7 pick is negligence on Cable's watch. Equally more disturbing is how Cable has vastly underutilized the talents of RB Michael Bush.

I understand Cable's philosophy of having a "committee" approach to using his 3 RBs. I also am fully aware of how each RB brings something different to the table. However, if 1 RB is producing at a higher rate than the other 2, it makes zero sense to use this same back in a sporadic fashion or cameo role.

Below is a brief summary of my beliefs on how Cable should use each RB and the statistics of each individual RB. Realizing that there are different circumstances to each game, each matchup, and injury considerations, it is crystal clear to me, Joe Fan, that Cable needs to get back to the basics;

(1) Which RB is most capable of carrying the load and being productive?
(2) Which RB, if used properly, gives the Raiders the best chance to win on any given Sunday?

Michael Bush:
Fast, nimble, big, powerful 250 lbs. RB who is ideally suited to run between the tackles but more than capable of getting to the edge for explosive gainers; adept at patiently allowing his blockers to make a crease; north-south runner; the best Raider RB at making the initial tackler miss or breaking the 1st tackle; excellent pass catcher; good at blitz pick up and blocking assignments.

Opinion: Bush should be the #1 RB who gets 15-20 carries per game and should be used more on check down passes, delayed middle screens, and passes in the flat.

2008: 95 carries, 421 yards, 4.4 YPC, long of 67, 3 TDs
2009: 103 carries, 519 yards, 5.0 YPC, long of 60, 3 TDs

Justin Fargas:
Pure blood and guts runner; reckless and fearless; inspirational leader. Is decisive but has sub par vision in terms of using his blockers, avoiding tackles, and running into his own blockers.

Opinion: I view Fargas as a good situational RB and the type of RB who can be used, on occasion, to inspire the team and salt away a victory in the 4th quarter.

2008: 218 caries, 853 yards, 3.9 YPC, long of 42, 1 TD
2009: 129 carries, 491 yards, 3.8 YPC, long of 35, 3 TDs

Darren McFadden:
Marred by multiple injuries, McFadden has yet to establish any rhythm. When healthy, his playing time is uneven. Has recently shown an improvement at running between the tackles and gaining the tough yards but is more of a Reggie Bush, outside the tackles threat. Biggest strength is his overall versatility.

Opinion: If used in a more varied, creative fashion, McFadden could be isolated in more favorable matchups. His speed and pass catching abilities is not being currently maximized to develop a more dynamic offensive unit.

2008: 113 carries, 499 yards, 4.4 YPC, long of 44, 4 TDs
2009: 92 carries, 325 yards, 3.5 YPC, long of 28, 1 TD

A Parting Gift From Russell

2009-12-21T21:26:00.000-08:00

This was a very fitting game for a season filled with many head scratching moments in the Raiders 2009 season. Going into this road game as 14 point underdogs, Head Coach Cable started 3rd string QB Charlie Frye over the $60M man.

In the mind of Cable, Frye deserved to start because (1) he is well prepared (2) is a gym rat (3) commands the respect of his teammates (4) is mobile (5) understands the entire playbook (6) JaMarcus is a bust or (7) all of the above.

During the first 3 quarters of action, a rusty Charlie Frye did a commendable job managing the game, avoiding sacks, and making enough plays to keep the game close at 16-13 Broncos. Aiding Charlie was a "bend but don't break D" (3 goal lines stands) and a stout rushing attack (241 rushing yards for the game).

At the 10:59 mark in the 4th quarter, Frye was KO'ed by a vicious hit. As Frye layed on the ground with a concussion, the Raider fans at the Stick N Stein in El Segundo let out a deafening collective groan and chants of "Oh No!", "Get up Charlie", "Not JaMarcus!"

It seemed like another bad case of deja vu similar to the game vs. the Skins where Gradkowski got injured and Russell came in to lay an egg. Russell came in and sure enough, 2 quick series of ineptitude.

Facing a last ditch drive, down 19-13 with 3:29 left, Russell started off this critical series with a sack/fumble (recovered by Carlisle) for a 13 yard loss. If Carlisle doesn't recover this fumble, is there any doubt about the hostile venom that would be spewed in Russell's direction? Somehow, some way, Russell rebounded on an unlikely 10 play, 62 yard game winning TD drive overcoming long odds;

* Facing a 2nd and 23, the Broncos committed a costly 32 yard penalty pass interference.

* Drilled in the ribs throwing an incomplete pass (sat out 1 play with JP Losman taking over for another incomplete)

* Coming back to convert a 4th and 10 to TE Stewart for 11 yards

* Hooking up with Stewart again for 9 yards

* Completing a 13 yarder to WR Schilens to the Denver 10 yard line

* On 2nd and 10 with :35 to go in the game, Russell finished the drive off with a pass to Schilens in stride for the game winning TD.

The reason that I'm hoping this is a parting Christmas gift from Russell to secure a thrilling come from behind victory over a hated rival is that in spite of the his late game heroics, Russell doesn't deserve to come back in 2010.

This game showcased all of Russell's warts in 1 quarter what we have witnessed in his previous 9 starts in 2009:

(1) The playcalling menu is stripped down to "QB Playcalling For Dummies" to accommodate Russell's skill set and poor understanding of the entire playbook. How many snaps was he in shotgun? 75% of the snaps?

(2) Russell's poor pocket awareness and lack of mobility. His inability to improvise and adapt when the pocket breaks down kills far too many drives.

(3) Russell's knack for fumbling (8 fumbles this season). I would venture to say that Russell fumbles at a higher rate per snap than any QB in the history of the NFL. It has come to the point where I'm truly shocked if he doesn't fumble at least once in a game.

(4) Calling a time out due to confusion. Russell's lack of fundamental football knowledge and formation recognition causes indecision and costly timeouts.

(5) Bouncing a pass well short of a wide open Murphy. Russell is unreliable to throw the ball accurately. Completing less than 50% of your passes simply is not acceptable.

Although the Nation can savor an enjoyable win, Russell is not, nor will he ever be, the solution to getting this team over the hump. Cable made the right call by starting Frye and Gradkowski earlier in the season.

The minimum baseline for a successful QB in the NFL is someone who commands respect, makes good decisions, is completely dedicated to his craft, and gives the team the best chance to win. Russell on occasion shows flashes of his talent but cannot be counted on to lead a team.

2 Halves, 2 QBs

2009-12-14T21:05:00.000-08:00

If this was a video game, you could easily push the reset button. Since this was a real football game, the only logical option is to cut Russell at the end of the season.

In this game vs. the Washington Redskins, there were 2 very distinct Raider QBs behind center in 2 very distinct halves of football.

In the 1st half of a competitive, exciting, close, hard fought game, Gradkowski demonstrated the key qualities and competencies of an NFL QB in terms of leadership, energy, mobility, ball security, and offensive production.

The Raiders offensive unit moved the football (181 yards), Gradkowski had the passing attack clicking (10 receptions, 153 yards), showed pocket presence and escapability, and most importantly, had the Raiders within 1 score of the Skins.

Unfortunately, Ski tore 1 MCL and partially tore the other MCL on an attempted sack. In a cruel twist of irony, no pun intended, it was this very same play that Ski proved his toughness and adaptability to a stiff pass rush. It was amazing to watch Ski twist, turn, and improvise an underhand shovel pass to Fargas.

Russell started the 2nd half with the Raiders down 17-10. It was the equivalent of splashing cold water in the faces of the other 10 offensive players and Raider fans alike. The proverbial wind was taken out of our sails when our fallen leader got injured at the end of the first half. The good mojo of Ski was replaced by the negative mojo of Russell.

Russell looked like his cleats were filled with lead or he was playing in quicksand whenever he dropped back to pass. For the entire 2nd half, the Raiders offense accumulated only 19 net yards. Series after series was killed by Russell's lack of pocket awareness and mobility as he was sacked 6 times for -45 yards. Here is a quick snapshot of Russell's 1st 4 series;

1st series: (Start on own 44 yard line) 9 plays, 20 yards, 54 yard field goal; drive was killed by a -9 yard sack.

2nd series: (Start on own 49 yard line) sacked twice; -6 yards, -9 yards; punt

3rd series: 1st play INT

4th series: 1st play sack (-10 yards) & recovered fumble at own 3 yard line; later in the drive sacked for -9 yards and sacked for -2 yards

This Wednesday, Head Coach Cable has a very important decision to make that will impact the players and fans morale. He will choose his QB vs. the Broncos.

The choice will be either (a) the hard working, dedicated journeyman gym rat (Charlie Frye) or (b)the lazy, unaccountable check casher (JaMarcus Russell).

If Cable picks (a) over (b), I guarantee that the other 43 suited up players will bust their tail on Sunday and fans will have some sense of hope for a victory.

If he picks (b) or is forced to pick (b) by Davis, the entire spirit of competitive football will be carelessly tossed in the garbage bin.

DHB Scratch, Passing Game Reborn

2009-12-06T14:51:00.001-08:00

The Raiders passing attack throughout this season has been impotent for a myriad of reasons. Poor QB play, inconsistent pass protection, and paltry production from the WR corps. In the 1st 11 games, 1 of our starting WRs, DHB, had a whopping total of 9 catches and 1 TD.

Lo and behold, DHB was a late scratch from the game today vs. Pittsburgh. In DHB's place, JLH started and Murphy received more reps. JLH (4 receptions, 63 yards) & Murph (4 receptions, 128 yards, 2 TDs), while splitting snaps, produced more in 1 game than DHB has in 11 games as a starter.

In this thrilling last second 27-24 victory, the Raiders 3 primary WRs (Schilens, JLH, Murphy) combined for 11 receptions, 236 yards, and 3 TDs. Is it a coincidence that the passing attack got on track with DHB in street clothes? Many Raiders fans have been upset with the stubbornness that Raiders management (Cable & Davis) have shown in the bad decision to give DHB so many unearned snaps.

The other key component to a productive day in the air was Ski's ability to improvise and adapt to a stiff pass rush by using his feet, legs, and head. For the day, Ski was 20-33, 61%, 308 yards, 3 TDs, 0 Ints. There were numerous plays in this contest where Ski was able to buy time, go to his 2nd and 3rd read, and deliver an accurate pass.

This game made it crystal clear to all the Raider arm chair QBs. In order to field the most competitive team, DHB & Russell need to earn their way back on to the field. How high you were drafted or the size of your paycheck should not determine your playing status. Playing time should be earned by the performance on the field.

Message To Al

2009-12-01T21:59:00.001-08:00

Is this the product of 7 consecutive seasons of double digit losses? This billboard, via http://www.messagetoal.com/, is up at Nimitz Frwy (I-880) close to Oakland Alameda County Stadium. The total cost of the billboard was $5,500 for a 4 week lease starting Dec 1, 2009.

Every Dick, Jane, and Tom who has followed the Raiders knows instinctively that the 1st step to turning this organization around is to hire a GM. As outlined in one of my earlier posts, the only way to make a positive, sustainable change is for Davis to hire a GM to provide the executive support the team desperately needs.

If it takes a billboard and 25k people to sign a petition to shame Davis into action, so be it. The bottom line is that the fans that genuinely and honestly care about the Raiders getting off the rocks and into the deep blue sea realize that Al Davis NEEDS and DESERVES a GM.

It isn't rocket science. It isn't a breakthrough idea. It isn't anything revolutionary. It is merely a logical, reasonable solution to making a significant positive change. The status quo is a dead end. It provides zero hope for the avid Raider followers. Until a GM is hired, expect double digit loss seasons to pile up and Davis' legacy to be further tarnished.

Sure we can all hope for a better draft, a better coaching staff, improvements by our existing players. If the stars are aligned, a .500 season would be a major accomplishment. If shooting for .500 is the "ultimate" goal, go ahead and knock yourself out but don't count on the loyal fans to stick around. Your diehard fan will invest less of their time & money and simply become casual observers and nothing more.

Bruce Almighty

2009-11-23T21:45:00.001-08:00

Gradkowski demonstrated in 1 game what Russell failed to do in the 9 previous games. Although his statistics don't jump out on the page (17-34, 183 yards, 2 TDs, 1 Int), Ski's passion for the game of football was a beautiful elixir for Raider fans desperate for hope.

Ski put together 2 critical TD drives when the offensive unit needed him to come through the most. The first drive was before the end of the 1st half that totaled 9 plays and 71 yards and culminated in a 10 yard strike to TE Miller. This drive closed the score from 14-0 to 14-7 and gave the Raiders hope entering halftime.

The 2nd TD drive was clutch. At the end of the game, with 2:12 to go, Ski drove the Raiders 80 yards and hit WR Muphy for the tying score. Prior to Murphy's TD, Ski converted a game deciding 4th and 10 with a critical 16 yard strike to WR Schilens.

Watching Ski as the starting QB was a breath of fresh air. Here's a guy who has fought tooth and nail to get signed by countless teams (Bucs, Rams, Browns, and Raiders). He takes nothing for granted and has no sense of entitlement.

Instead he over-compensates by being well prepared and totally committed to his craft. What caught my attention was more about what Ski did on the sideline than on the field itself. When the offensive unit was off the field, Ski was animated, involved, enthusiastic, and constantly offering support and instruction to his teammates. He was COMPLETELY immersed and engaged in the moment and how to improve the results on the field and adjust to what the Bengals D was showing him. Cable's quote says it all, "great feedback today when he came off the field after each offensive series."

On the field, Ski showed all of the intangibles that a successful QB needs in the ultra competitive NFL ... command in the huddle, varying the cadence at the line of scrimmage (3 Bengals offside penalties), decisiveness when the pocket broke down, ability to read the entire field, avoiding costly sacks (0). Gallery summarized what Ski brings to the table best by saying "He's just what a QB should be. Confident. He has the trust of everybody. He know's what he's doing. He has our backs if something breaks down. Just what a QB should be."

Ski has an awesome opportunity to show his value to the team over the course of the next 6 games and his future status in 2010. It will be interesting to see if the Raiders can establish productive consistency with Ski at the helm and whether or not Russell learns any valuable lessons from the gritty, determined efforts of his colleague.

Let's Go Ski

2009-11-19T17:52:00.001-08:00

Cable made the right move by benching Russell although it should have happened a few games ago. Bruce Gradkowski gets the opportunity to prepare as the starter this week, get 1st unit reps., and have a game plan tailored to his strengths.

Gradkowski does a few key things proficiently that Russell has yet to demonstrate on a consistent basis:

(1) Ski moves within and outside the pocket much better than Russell. He has better footwork, nimbleness, decisiveness, and quickness when avoiding the pass rush. His mobility gives the team a chance to make positive plays when the pocket breaks down.

(2) Ski throws a more accurate, catchable ball which allows the Raiders WRs more opportunities to secure the ball and get YAC.

(3) Ski is more engaging when interacting with teammates. The bounce in his step, his energy, can-do spirit, and sense of urgency are important game managing traits. Getting quickly in and out of the huddle, taking control at the line of scrimmage, and having more time to audible out of a play call benefits the offensive unit.

There is no doubt that Gradkowski has a tall order to face in his first starting assignment against an elite Bengals defense. However, I thing this change at QB will give the offense a spark and new direction.

Having Russell sit and watch from the sidelines for 1 game, 2 games, or the rest of the season will hopefully recalibrate his career purpose and dedication. At this point in time, in a lost season, Russell's sense of entitlement has been officially revoked. He either hits the alarm button or goes to the snooze button.

My general feeling is that Gradkowski is getting an audition for his role in 2010. I don't see him as anything more than a stop gap measure and serviceable back up. Russell hasn't proven to be even a remotely competent signal caller through 9 games. Whether the Raiders sign a veteran free agent QB, draft another QB, or let Gradkowski, Frye, and Russell battle it out in an open competition next spring is unknown.

With Cable's job in serious jeopardy due to poor performance on the field and controversy off the field, a new head coach will need to provide input in evaluating the QB position for next season. Just like the previous 6 seasons, there are many unsettled issues that need to be resolved.

At the top of this list is the QB position, the Head Coach, and the vacancy at GM which is typically the heart and soul of a team's leadership and vision. Ideally, I would love to see these 3 areas of concern addressed in reverse order: Hire a GM. Let the GM choose a Head Coach. Then let the Head Coach size up the best QB for his team. Is that asking for too much? I guess so considering these 3 areas have been in flux and grave disappointments for 6+ years running.

Darrius Heyward Bust

2009-11-16T18:18:00.001-08:00

9 games into the season, Darrius Heyward Bey's value as the #7 pick in the 2009 draft is evident. DHB is a bust. $23M guaranteed to a WR who is averaging less than 1 reception per and a shade under 11 total yards receiving per game (6 receptions, 96 yards).

These minuscule numbers are hard to believe. He has played well over 80% of the total offensive snaps yet his season totals would be considered nothing more than an average day at work for Wes Welker. In 4 games this year, DHB rang up zeros. He has caught only 1 ball in all the 2nd halves combined.

In the game vs. Kansas City on Sunday, DHB had 2 key opportunities to contribute to his unit's success. The first opportunity was a deep 52 yard strike from Russell inside the 5 yard line that was right in his bread basket. DHB dropped it. In the game deciding drive, DHB was wide open around the KC 10 yard line. Gradowski's pass to DHB was right on the mark. Inexplicably, DHB jumped up when he didn't need to jump at all. Instead of securing the ball and keeping a game winning drive alive, DHB played patty cake with the ball, batting it up for Safety Mike Brown to easily catch the carom.

These 2 plays are a microcosm of DHB's season. When the ball is thrown to DHB he fights it, uses poor technique, and seems to panic. DHB lacks the basic football instincts and fundamentals for doing what he is paid to do ... catch the ball. In a nutshell, he lacks the poise, confidence, and abilities to perform the rudimentary elements to being a productive WR.

Is there hope for a guy who has been a complete bust to develop into a solid, reliable WR in the near future? I personally think that DHB could one day become a serviceable, complimentary WR if he works tirelessly at his craft. He could be used as a decoy and and occasional big play WR. We all know he can stretch the field with his speed. We also know the Raiders will give him an extended "try out" due to the HUGE investment sunk into him already.

As far as becoming a "star" WR, true starter, productive 50+ catch WR, DHB lacks the football instincts and sure handed abilities. Until a Head Coach is hired who has complete authority on the 53 man roster, a guy like DHB will continue to earn a steady, sizable scholarship paycheck. None of the other 31 Head Coaches in the NFL would have DHB starting this far into the season based on his performance.

The Real Deal on Gruden

2009-11-06T21:57:00.000-08:00

Jerry MacDonald had a very interesting blog post tonight detailing the Gruden saga and the unlikely conditions of his return.

As I mentioned in my previous post, the key to turning this team around is:

"The newly hired Head Coach and GM need to have the authority on all football matters"

When push came to shove, the reason that Gruden left after the 2001 season is that the original contract that had been agreed upon earlier in the preliminary stages of negotiation had been stripped of the 2 key provisions:

(1) the authority to pick his own 53 players
(2) the authority to pick his own coaches

Gruden bailing on Oakland and heading for Tampa Bay had nothing to do with a bad working relationship with Davis nor was it caused by Gruden's interest in being closer to family in Florida.

In essence it boiled down to a Head Coach who had won 2 straight divisional titles wanting to have control over the players he coached and the staff he worked with.

In order for the Raiders to attract and hire a proven, capable Head Coach candidate, a few critical elements need to be in place. A new Head Coach needs a GM on board to act as an important buffer and partner when dealing with Davis. The Head Coach needs to know that if he is going to be the cook, he should be allowed to pick the ingredients to the team members that fit his system. This imaginary Head Coach also needs to be paid fair market value.

Doling out $5M+ for a Head Coach & GM and giving authority to allow them to do their jobs is a very small price to pay to restore the franchise's luster. The alternative is an unproven Head Coach who is struggling mightily, a vacant GM slot, and more double digit loss seasons. Doesn't seem like a very difficult choice unless you factor in Davis' ego and the constantly dysfunctional management that currently permeates the building.

1st Half Review - Offensively Impotent

2009-11-04T18:52:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick snap shot of the Raiders offenses 1st half statistics which can be characterized as offensively impotent or the exact opposite of explosive:

(All statistics are on a per game average)

First Downs: 12

3rd Down Conversion Rate: 29%

Total Offensive Yards: 215

Total plays: 54

Rushing Yards: 94

Passing Yards: 121

Passing Completion Rate: 49%

Pass Completions: 12.5

Touchdowns: .75 (not a misprint ... averaging less than 1 TD per game)

Time of Possession: 26:37

Points per game: 9.8

In 8 games played this season, the Raiders have failed to score more than 1 TD in 7 games while getting completely shut out from the end zone in 3 games. The offensive unit has only a few players that are executing at a starter's caliber: TE Miller, LT Henderson, and when healthy, LG Gallery. The rest of the 8 men on the unit need to demonstrate a huge level of improvement, be cut, or take a seat on the pine.

With the Nation in a foul mood over a 6.5 year run of ineptitude in winning less than 25% of the games played over this span, here is my "wish" list to get the franchise back on track:

(1) First and foremost, Al Davis needs to hire a General Manager. Yes, this is stating the obvious. A GM who is involved in the player evaluation, the draft, coaching hires, and football operations would be the only significant way to recalibrate the path we are on.

(2) The newly hired GM's first order of business is to demote Tom Cable to OLine Coach and conduct a thorough, exhaustive search for the most proven, capable Head Coach.

(3) The draft needs to focus on building the team from the inside, out. The offensive and defensive lines need to be the priority.

(4) A starting caliber, veteran QB needs to be added to the roster with a real, best man wins, competition in camp 2010.

(5) At least 1 established, veteran WR needs to be added to the roster via free agency.

(6) A traditional SLB needs to be added through the draft or free agency. We haven't had a legitimate SLB since the days of Romo and our run defense has suffered the consequences.

(7) The newly hired Head Coach and GM need to have the authority on all football matters. This includes modernizing the offensive and defensive schemes and running more sophisticated game plans.

(8) The owner needs to put the team first and his ego a distant second. He needs to trust the executive support staff that he hires to do their jobs. He needs to return to the loyal fan base the one thing that has been missing the past 7 seasons ... hope.

Raiders "Jeet Kune Do"

2009-10-21T22:18:00.000-07:00

I have been a life-long fan of Bruce Lee and the Oakland Raiders. I have admired, been inspired, and thoroughly entertained by both Lee and Raider football for countless years. Bruce Lee was revolutionary in his philosophies and martial arts. I find it apropos to tie Jeet Kune Do, which was the brain-child of Lee, with the Raiders upcoming game vs. the Jets.

After many years of feeling restricted by the art of Kung Fu, Lee developed Jeet Kune Do. The essence of Jeet Kun Do is to adapt your combat fighting style to whatever works best against your opponent. It is the "style of not style". It's not "this" method or "that" method. It was Lee's hope to free his follower's minds from clinging to styles, patterns, or molds.

The Raiders played arguably their best overall defensive game since beating the Steelers in 2006. The Raider Nation is naturally fired up about blitzing McNabb to hell. Many fans are looking towards the blitz as the remedy to continue on this path. I believe that the blitz is a very important tool for an effective and dynamic defense. Sustaining QB pressure and running an unpredictable defensive scheme are the pillars to a modern NFL defense.

However, it is important to note that the Eagles were the perfect team to blitz with regularity. The Eagles do not rely on the running game on 1st and 2nd down. The Eagles OLine was beat up and missing starting LT Peters for most of the game.

Going into the Jets game, the Raiders defense needs to adapt their defensive approach to fit the opponent. Here are a few statistics that are relevant for our upcoming opponent:

N.Y. Jets
Rushing Attempts Per Game: 33.5 (#1 in NFL)
Rushing Yards: 978 (#1 in NFL)
Avg. Yards Per Carry: 4.9 (#3 in NFL)
Avg. Yards Per Game: 163 (#2 in NFL)

Oakland Raiders (Defense)
Avg. Yards Per game: 145.3 (#28 in NFL)

Last week the Jets rushed the ball for 318 yards. RB Thomas Jones ran the ball 22 times for 210 yards. The team had 40 carries for 7.9 yards per carry.

On 1st and 2nd down, the Raiders defense needs to put 8 in the box against the Jets, be stout at the point of attack, maintain their gap responsibilities, and have an excellent day in tackling. This will require team discipline and passionate, aggressive play.

If and when the Raiders D puts the Jets offense in 3rd and long situations, then it will be time to cut the dogs of war loose on rookie QB Sanchize.

Modern Raider Defense Unveiled ... Finally!

2009-10-19T20:36:00.000-07:00

Eagles 9 - Raiders 13

The Raiders attack dogs on defense were mercifully and shockingly cut loose vs. the Eagles. Going into Sunday's contest, the Raiders blitzed less than any team in the league. (20 blitzes in 153 pass plays, or 13.1 percent).

When the Raiders hired Defensive Coordinator John Marshall before the season, many Raider fans were ecstatic about a new DC with a reputation for using a heavy dose of blitzes to ratchet up the pressure on the QB. The LBs in Marshall's defense typically ranked high in individual sacks.

The Raiders defense has been painfully stuck in a very predictable defensive mindset the past many years. You know the drill. 4 DL expected to apply QB pressure, LBs in pass coverage, corners in man to man. Is there anything wrong with this as your base D? No. The problem arises when you don't strategically change things up in order to keep your opponent on their heels.

In this game, which is an aberration until proven to be a trend, the Raiders actually called an unpredictable defense game plan that clearly rattled and confused long time veteran QB McNabb. To start the game, the Raiders blitzed Howard, Morrision, and Branch on numerous plays. The DLine ran aggressive stunts and twists. The secondary mixed in some zone coverage. The end results: 0 TDs, 6 sacks, 2-16 3rd down conversions.

QB McNabb: “This week the defensive coordinator came up with a scheme in which we haven’t seen. They’re known for playing man coverage. They dropped back in a lot of zone, more zone than we’ve seen in the early games. That allowed them to sit back in a zone and just wait for a guy to catch the ball and make the tackle. They came up with more of a blitz package today. They were able to get pressure.”

The Eagles saw the Raiders previous 5 games on film. Clearly the Eagles were caught off guard by the Raiders unpredictable, aggressive defense.

Offensive Tackle Winston Justice: “They were doing some stunts. They caught us by surprise. They did a lot of things that we weren’t really expecting.”

Eagles Right Guard Max Jean-Gilles: “They just generated a lot of pressure. We just weren’t prepared.”

Other key factors in the victory:

- An early TD by the Raiders offense to jump out to a 7-0 lead; Russell to Miller 86 yard catch-n-run TD

- Handling the Eagles blitz packages; good line calls by Satele, excellent blitz pick ups by FB Gary Russell, mixing up the playcalls to including a heavy dose of screens to Gary Russell (5 receptions, 55 yards)

- Solid special teams play from K SeaBass (2 for 2 FGs) & Lechler (7-51.1). The way these 2 veterans are playing is worthy of a ticket to the Pro Bowl.

- Raiders offense doing a better job of sustaining drives by committing to the run. Fargas ran the ball with conviction 23 times for 87 yards. Force feeding Huggy Bear allowed the Raiders to manage the down and distance and win the time of possession battle (33:02 to 26:58)

- An efficient, steady performance from QB Russell (17-28, 61%, 209 yards, 2 ints, 1 TD).

The big questions that will be answered in the next few weeks:

Was the Eagle game a fluke?

Will DC Marshall continue to use the blitz as an important tool to a modern, sophisticated NFL D?

How will the team handle a week where most everyone is patting them on the back?

Will the offense finally begin to carry the unit's fair share of the load?

Witness to a Car Wreck

2009-10-14T21:35:00.000-07:00

I wanted to send a friendly "heads-up" to the Raider Nation who plan to tune in to the game this Sunday vs. Philadelphia. Be prepared to crane your neck to view a ghastly car wreck collision.

Last week the Eagles blitzed the Bucs on 60% of their offensive snaps (45 blitzes on 75 snaps). This is not a typo. New Defensive Coordinator Sean McDermott has taken a page from former DC Jim Johnson's (RIP) playbook. The Eagles blitzed more in this 1 game than the Raiders will blitz for the entire 2009 season but that is another blog entry for another day.

Why did the Eagles blitz so much vs. the Bucs? Quite simply, DC McDermott realized that his Eagles defense was facing an inexperienced QB in Josh Johnson. When is a blitz effective? When you've got a QB who is indecisive with his reads, holds on to the ball to long, runs an unsophisticated offense, and has a leaky OLine. Sound familiar?

I hate to say it after such an embarrassing dismantling last week vs. the Giants but this upcoming game is where the wheels really fall completely off the vehicle. McDermott dials up a very diverse set of blitz packages in every conceivable game situation. It doesn't matter if it is 1st down, 2nd down, or 3rd down. It can be a red zone blitz, run blitz, all out blitz. If the opponent isn't able to handle and capitalize on the blitz pressure then he serves up even more blitzes.

Factor in a QB whose confidence is reeling, a team struggling to churn out 200 yards of offensive production, 2 rookie WRs who are not reliable to read and react, and you've got yourself a seat to a full on, no holds bar gore fest. The over/under on total sacks, interceptions, and QB fumbles has to be close to a +/- 12. Are these what Cable would call "explosive" defensive plays? Can you say "Dynamite, Tom!"

I would like to think that Cable is doing everything humanly possible as the Head Coach to prepare the offensive unit for the inevitable onslaught of a "Super Sunday Blitzkrieg" in terms of scheme, personnel groupings, play calling, and group prayers to get ready for Sunday.

I would love to see the the entire team to play with a sense of pride, purpose, aggression, and conviction.

Being a realistic optimist (hoping for the best outcome but grounded in reality), my view is that this is the type of match-up that is no better than bringing a parka jacket to hell.

A Cry For Help

2009-10-11T14:39:00.001-07:00

N.Y. Giants 44 - Oakland 7

Let's face it ... this was the perfect storm for the Raiders to flounder. The beat down delivered by an elite team like the Giants is merely a symptom of a team crying out for help.

The only way for the Raiders to turn things around is to change the way business is conducted at Alameda.

- We have a Head Coach who is the acting Offensive Coordinator, the playcaller, and Head Coach. Even if Cable was qualified and capable of handling all of these major responsibilities (which he is not), how far would he get with the current personnel?

- We have a young QB who needs stability, structure, coaching, patience, and solid support personnel around him to develop ... he doesn't. Russell has a non-existent running game to lean on and 2 rookie WRs to throw to.

As the QB playing so poorly, Russell is the natural focus for all the negativity from the fans. I understand that is part of equation with being the franchise QB. It is much easier to direct your angst at Russell than all of the other problem areas. Russell's poor play is a major concern but not the only concern such as:

Are you upset with Davis wasting a #7 pick on DHB? Does it bother you that our running game is non-existent? How much does it disappoint you that our defense gets continually gouged for big, explosive plays? How good do you feel about our current WR group? Our OLine? The Hanson incident blowing up in our faces? The fact that we don't have a GM?

- We have an owner who for dubious, negligent reasons, refuses to seek the help of a capable GM to partner with.

Simply replacing a Head Coach and/or replacing a QB is only putting a band aid on a gushing, wound. Significant change starts with the hiring of a GM. It carries forward with an exhaustive, thorough, diligent search for a HC who is given the authority to make key decisions on his staff and what type of offense/defense he wants to run.

Summary of the necessary corrective surgery:

(1) Hire a capable GM.

The GM would be directly involved (acting as a true partner to Davis) in overseeing the scouting department, the draft, and most importantly, the recruiting, evaluation, and selection of a Head Coach. The likelihood of finding someone Davis trusts enough to be a GM/partner seems remote at best. Is Davis seriously looking to find a GM? If so, I guess I shouldn't be so damn impatient considering it has only been what 3+ years and counting since Lombardi aka "the fox in the hen house" left the building.

(2) Hire a proven head coach.

To attract and hire a proven head coach requires (a) A GM already in place (b) the full authority to hire his own staff and (c) to run whatever type of offense/defense that he sees fit. The chances of hiring a well qualified Head Coach under the current circumstances is a major long shot.

Honestly. How low do we have to sink before Davis seeks help and revamps how business is conducted in Alameda? We are well past "wait til next year when we draft Johnny Jet Legs from Auburn". When you have lost 75% of your last 100 games, "tweaks" here, a few added players there, a new QB, a new HC will not suffice.

What is sad to me is that Davis should want to get a GM. At his advanced age, he deserves to get some help. If he gets a capable GM and the franchises' fortunes are turned around he will still get his deserved credit. When the team is winning at a 25% clip there is simply no credit to go around.

Door A
Allow the franchise to wallow in shame by not taking corrective action

Door B
Make organizational changes and bolster the executive support group to take another legitimate shot at glory

Is this a difficult choice?

Beyond The Sunrise

2009-10-04T20:02:00.000-07:00

Oakland 6 - Houston 29

In the opening game this season, the Raiders played a spirited, tough brand of football in a hard fought loss to the Chargers. The acquisitions of Seymour & Ellis gave our defense some real teeth to it. The Raiders were, without question, the more physical team on the field. Offensively, we were able to run the ball effectively. Defensively, we were able to stop the run. In spite of the loss, the Raiders team showed resiliency by overcoming a late game deficit. There was a genuine sense of hope after this game that this season had real promise.

In the 2nd game vs. Kansas City, 2 of our 3 units (Defense, Special Teams) played exceptionally well allowing the team to be in the position to win in the last 2:00. Russell's struggles became quite evident in this game and there was a gloomy sense in Raider Nation that our offense could be as bad as the 2006 Bed N Breakfast edition. Instead of committing to the run in this game, Cable chose to open up the passing attack. The rushing game never gained traction. Since the team overcame and won on Russell's clutch TD drive, there was still hope. We were learning how to close out a game. A "W" is a "W", right?

In the 3rd game vs. Denver, at home with a chance to take a share of the division lead, the Raiders laid a sulfurous egg. The defense was gashed by the Broncos running attack, Russell continued to have more difficulties with his accuracy, and the run game never materialized. There wasn't any acceptable excuse for the Raiders coming out flat and unfocused. The negative feelings about the team resurfaced.

Today's game vs. Houston confirmed the negative outlook. Where is the improvement from game to game? Going into the game, the Texans were the #32 ranked team in run defense. Were we able to run the ball? Net yards rushing = 45. Did Cable make a concerted effort to get Bush more carries? Bush had 3 carries for the entire day. Was Russell more accurate in his passing? Russell completed 36% of his passes (12-33). Were we able to sustain drives? Try 8 first downs for an entire game. Did DHB or McFadden contribute to our offensive attack? Not unless you count DHB doubling his career receptions (from 1 to 2) or McFadden losing 3 yards on 6 carries. The final straw to this blowout was a dismal performance by our special teams coverage units who gave up big yardage on kickoffs and punt returns to include a 95 yard TD return after the safety.

With the team reeling from 2 bad losses, Russell becoming the poster boy for a bad team, and the most difficult part of the schedule looming (NYG, Philly, NYJ, SD), it could get ugly fast. I would like to think that hope is right around the corner if and only if the offensive unit can come up with a few solutions to their woes. Right now, the offensive unit is so bad that the team is playing with 1 arm behind it's back. Here are a few solutions to ponder:

(1) Come hell or high water, this team needs to re-establish the running attack as the foundation of the offense where drives are sustained and toughness demonstrated. Find a spot on the OLine for Barnes to beef up the run blocking. Putting Barnes at LG or RT is worth a trial run.

(2) Cable needs to rethink how he is distributing playing time. DHB needs to earn his starting position during the week of practice and by producing on the field. Our best inside runner (Bush) needs to be given the opportunity to get in a rhythm in a game by getting more than 3-6 carries.

(3) The running backs and tight ends need to become a more integral part of the passing attack. This is especially important and true for a team that has a QB struggling and a team having a difficult time sustaining drives. In this game vs. the Texans, only 3 balls were completed to the RBs and another 3 to TE Miller. Is there any reason why Cable can't incorporate more 2 TE sets and use Stewart/Myers as pass catching TEs? Does it make sense for McFadden to get only 1 passing touch for an entire game? There are dozens of creative ways to utilize McFadden and Bush into the passing attack. This omission points back to Cable's play calling. He knows his offensive unit is in a black hole. It is up to him to find ways to use his personnel to make it easier to pull themselves out of this hole. The players need to ultimately execute the plan. If one of your biggest weapons (McFadden) is only getting a couple touches per game than there is a problem with the game plan.

(4) The most important piece to an offensive lobotomy is for Russell to become a competent and reliable passer. I am not convinced that Russell will transform himself overnight when you've got 2 rookie starting WRs who are having a difficult time supporting him and a non-existent rushing attack. If and when the running attack gets going and Shilens returns there is a glimmer of hope that we can begin to climb the hill again.

Raiders Offense - The Sad Clown

2009-09-28T19:19:00.000-07:00

Denver 23 - Oakland 3

Futile, lifeless, inefficient, impotent, inept, rudderless ... these are the words to describe the current Raiders offense. 3-out/Punt, 2-Int, 3-Int, 12-56/FG, End Half, 8-20/Punt, 2-10/Fumble, 5-16/Punt, 3-0/Punt, 5-20/Downs.

1 stinkin' drive in an entire game where we moved the ball. Total net yards from scrimmage = 137. Total net yards passing = 42. The lack of execution and rhythm was atrocious

The players who are being counted on to provide dynamic offensive proficiency are failing miserably. 3 high draft choices in the past 3 years (#1 Russell, #4 McFadden, #7 DHB) who are struggling beyond belief.

Russell: 31-75, 378 yards, 41.3%, 1 TD, 4 Ints
McFadden: 41-148, 3.6 yards per carry, 2 lost fumbles
DHB: 1 reception; countless drops

Where to begin with cleaning up this mess on aisle 3? It starts with Cable and Russell. Both of these guys need to dig deep to come up with solutions. It might be stating the obvious but leadership and performance from Cable and Russell respectively is what really matters.

Cable, Tollner, and Hackett urgently need to burn the midnight oil to devise a customized game plan for your franchise QB who is performing so poorly. Cable needs to find the right motivational buttons to push Russell towards a sharper focus on the task at hand. It very well might mean sitting Russell down if he is unable to get on track vs. Houston in order to recalibrate the young QB's focus.

Bush needs to become the workhorse back over McFadden. Where is the commitment to the running attack? McFadden & Bush combined for 18 carries. DHB shouldn't see the field unless it is a 3 WR set. Perhaps the return of WR Shilens will provide a jump start to the passing attack. It was clear in training camp and exhibition season that the Russell/Shilens combination was pivotal for Russell's confidence and moving the chains.

Unfortunately (or fortunately depending on your perspective) the core group of offensive skill players are guys in their 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year of development. Russell, McFadden, Bush, Shilens, Murphy, DHB, Miller need to be relied upon to be the engine of this offensive unit. What does this mean? It means more growing pains, heartache, and hopefully much needed progress in the near future. However, let's not kid ourselves. Until Russell gets his act together, this team is staring down another double digit loss season.

Closing Time

2009-09-20T20:14:00.000-07:00

Raiders 13 - Chiefs 10

Last week the Raiders lost to the Chargers yet the game was a buoy line to the Raider faithful. In a loss, there was a feeling of hope and better days to come. The next step in climbing the competitive ladder was for the team and coaching staff to learn how to close out a game.

Today the Raiders earned an ugly win vs. the Chiefs yet the game was a beautiful sight for the Raider Nation. In a win, and in spite of a dismal showing by the offensive unit, the team learned how to close out a game.

This game demonstrated why professional football is the ultimate team sport. The Raiders special teams unit playing a near flawless game. Kicker SeaBass nailed both of his long field goals attempts (48 yards; 54 yards). His long kickoffs prevented the Chiefs from netting a single yard on their returns for the entire game. Punter Lechler had an exceptional day (7 punts; 56.9 average) which was pivotal in the field position battle.

The Raiders defense gave up 409 net yards to the Chiefs. This might seem like a big chunk of yardage to the naked eye. However, if you watched the game, you realize that the D made big plays at critical junctures (2 pivotal sacks + 2 game altering interceptions). The defense also showed resiliency by minimizing the Chiefs to only 10 points in spite of a time of possession deficit of 38:39 to 21:21.

It is also clear that FS Michael Huff has taken a BIG step in his career progression. Huff has 3 interceptions and 1 fumble recovery in the 1st 2 games. His tackling and field awareness is leaps and bounds ahead of his previous 2 years in the league.

With the Raiders down 10-6 and 2:30 left on the clock, it was time for Russell to put the previous 57:30 behind him and find a way to elevate his game. This game deciding series is where ugliness gets a much needed face lift. During the course of the game, the Raiders offense only got in rhythm on 1 series. Russell was in the midst of his worst game in his young career. Somehow, some way, Russell blocked out the ugliness of his performance and the unit's performance and focused on winning time.

Thanks to a superior job by the special teams and an admirable job by the defense, the Raiders had an opportunity to win this game. 2:30 on the clock and 2 timeouts, the Raiders needed to march 69 yards to paydirt. On a key 2nd and 15, Russell connected with WR Murphy for 19 yards. On the play of the day, facing 3rd and 15, Russell found WR Watkins for 28 yards. McFadden closed out the drive with a 5 yard scamper after a fake to the upback and a pitch from Russell.

After 2 games, I'm sure many Raider fans are worried or upset about the performance of QB Russell. He has struggled with his accuracy and getting into rhythm. I'm looking at the Russell struggles with a silver lining. In both games he showed his ability to raise his game when the team needed him most. In spite of these struggles, I am confident that Russell will overcome the upcoming 2009 challenges. In my mind, Russell has showed his true leadership by fighting through his adverse times and keeping his eye on the prize.

Murphy TD Video

2009-09-15T21:51:00.000-07:00

2 feet down, butt on ground with clear, complete control and possession of the football = TD. Don't bother with the argument that "Murphy was going to ground while making the catch ... yada, yada, yada." He caught the ball in the air. He possessed the ball in the air. He possessed the ball with 1 foot down. He possessed the ball with 2 feet down. He possessed the ball with his butt on the ground.

The Raiders lost this game for 3 other primary reasons:

(1) The kick coverage unit getting gashed by Sproles which set up short fields and cheap points.

(2) Turnovers which took points off the board (Russell INT) or set SD up with a short field (McFadden fumble).

(3) The defense going soft with the game on the line. Going to zone coverage and playing your LBs too far off the line of scrimmage led to back breaking, game deciding points when it mattered most.

Hope Springs From Loss

2009-09-15T18:49:00.000-07:00

Chargers 24 - Raiders 20

"We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope."
-- Martin Luther King, Jr.

Last night's result was a rare 'daily double'. When the scoreboard hit 00:00, 2 feelings washed over me which are usually mutually exclusive. The combination was my heart sinking yet being filled with hope at the same time.

It is easy to figure out why it was a tough loss to swallow. In spite of the questionable call overturning Murphy's TD at the end of the 1st half, the Raiders put themselves in a position to close out the game. The Chargers were backed up on their 11 yard line, down by 3 with 2:11 to play.

For inexplicable reasons, DC Marshall had the LBs play a soft umbrella coverage 10 yards off the line of scrimmage. This was an error in tactics that needs to be corrected going forward. Play to win. Don't play to "prevent" a loss.

DC Marshall deserves praise for getting the Raiders to play "Lights Out" (Sorry Merriman) D for 57:49. What impressed me the most about the Raiders defense was the energy, aggression, and fundamentals throughout most of this hard fought contest.

Of course, the addition of Seymour paid off immediately. He made a HUGE contribution and impact. Seymour had 2 game altering sacks and showed his versatility by playing all 4 positions on the DLine.

This versatility will give opponents nightmares as they try to locate and adjust to Seymour. It was crystal clear that Seymour has the abilities to lead and inspire his teammates to new heights. I had VERY high expectations for Seymour making a noticeable, tangible difference in our run defense. The fact that he garners so much attention from the opponent's OLine by being constantly double teamed has allowed his teammates a better opportunity to make a play.

Holding the Chargers to 77 net yards rushing is 1 sign that Seymour is a game changer. The other aspect of the game last night that really stood out was the Raiders ability to collapse the pocket. Throughout the game, the Raiders base 4 was able to put pressure on QB Rivers. Adding a blitzer is the next step in the D being less predictable and more dynamic. By Rivers count, the Raiders only blitzed twice the entire game.

Another aspect to the game that gives me hope is how Russell responded late in the game. By all accounts, Russell had a rough night both physically and from an accuracy standpoint. He was simply missing wide open receivers. However, he showed his poise and focus when the stakes were the highest. Facing a 4th and 15 with the game on the line while overcoming a hyper-extended knee, Russell connected with Murphy for a 57 TD pass. I was proud of how Russell responded to adversity. I am confident that he will develop better timing with his 1st year receivers. Murphy is well on his way to establishing a chemistry with Russell.

CJ's Bottom Line:

Last night the Raiders displayed the type of competitive spirit, effort, and aggression that can't be quantified but fills my heart with pride. It is odd to say it but hope can spring from loss.

"Desire is the starting point of all achievement, not a hope, not a wish, but a keen pulsating desire which transcends everything."
-- Napoleon Hill

Ice Cube - Raider Nation (song)

2009-09-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

Seymour - Suited & Booted

2009-09-12T22:05:00.001-07:00

Richard Seymour arrived in Oakland today. As he said in the brief press conference "I'm ready to put on my hard hat and go to work." It just so happens that his "hard hat" will be a 1963 Raiders helmet for the opener vs. San Diego. Welcome to Oakland, #92. Now, if you can stonewall LT and put Rivers into the turf headfirst, all the better!

I Seymour Run D

2009-09-06T13:27:00.000-07:00

Exciting breaking news: The Raiders acquired defensive lineman Richard Seymour from the New England Patriots for a 2011 1st round pick. Seymour, 6'6", 310 lbs, has played 8 seasons in the NFL and has earned 5 pro bowl selections and 3 super bowl rings.

Here is a summary of Seymour's scouting report:

"Seymour is a very productive three-down defensive end with excellent size, strength and power. He has very good hands with a strong upper body to control blocks. He is explosive off the ball and can push the pocket from both inside and outside. He can dominate one-on-one blocks."

Bill Williamson, who blogs about the AFC West for ESPN, had an interesting take on the acquisition. His main point is that the Raiders needed to take this risk to bust out of their 6 year rut.

Here are my views on this acquisition:

#1 - Seymour is an excellent run defender, pass rusher and is a very durable, high character player with pro bowls and SBs to his resume. He has started in 105 of 111 games.

#2 - Seymour is capable of playing both DT and DE. This versatility is HUGE considering our current DL.

Think of some possible combinations depending on down, distance, game score, time in the game, etc ...

DE: Ellis, Scott, Shaunessey
DE/DT: Kelly, Seymour, Richardson
DT: Warren, Bryant

A base DLine that consists of Ellis, Warren, Kelly, and Seymour has the potential to be pretty damn good considering the possibilities of mixing and matching DL personnel. For example, Kelly and Seymour can be interchangeable. On certain plays, Seymour can move inside while Kelly goes outside to DE.

#3 - IMO, the biggest Achilles heel of the Raiders has been run defense and toughness. Seymour adds both elements.

I understand their is a cost and risk associated with acquiring a player of Seymour's caliber. There is without a doubt some potential downsides such as;

- Seymour being 1 and done
- The loss of a valuable 1st round pick

The biggest difference that I see with this veteran acquisition and the other big ticket ones from the past that ended badly is three fold. The other acquisitions such as DeAngelo Hall, Javon Walker, and Randy Moss were peripheral, skill players (DB, WR) with either questionable character issues, injury history, or both. Seymour is known for being a quiet leader and solid character. The most significant difference in my view is that Seymour has the ability as a DLineman to make a bigger impact on a struggling team like the Raiders. A skilled DB or WR playing outside the tackle box isn't going to impact the bare essence of the game. As the godfather of coaching put it,

"Football is blocking and tackling. Everything else is mythology." — Lombardi

Cuts from yesterday:

S Jerome Boyd, DB Darrick Brown, DE Greyson Gunheim, WR Jonathan Holland, OL James Marten, LB David Nixon, LB Slade Norris, LB Chris O'Neill, FB Marcel Reece, RB Gary Russell, P/K Ricky Schmitt, TE Darrell Strong, OL Mark Wilson, , DT Ryan Boschetti, QB Jeff Garcia, LB Morlon Greenwood, CB Justin Miller, DT Terdell Sands, T Seth Wand

Waived/Injured: DB Michael Hawkins, S Rashad Baker, C John Wade

With the acquisition of Richard Seymour, I would expect WR Todd Watkins to be cut.

Russell Is Right On Track

2009-09-05T16:38:00.001-07:00

I came across some very interesting statistics in the most recent EPSN magazine. Stat guru KC Joyner compared Russell with Joe Flaco and Matt Ryan. The comparison was for the last 7 games of the 2008 season.

I can't tell you how many times I've heard and read 'Russell is a bust' ... 'this is a do or die year for Russell' ... ' Yeah look at Ryan and Flacco' ... 'Russell isn't progressing fast enough' etc.

Russell was in his first full season at the helm last year. The last 7 games of the season showed his true development and overall progress as a QB.

If Flacco and Ryan are considered the "gold" standard for first year QBs, what does it mean if Russell had a higher QB rating than both of them for the final 7 games? What it means to me is that Russell is right on track (if not ahead of schedule) with his career development.

QB Category	Russell	Flacco	Ryan
Comp/Att	95/152	106/185	116/184
Yards	1,134	1,332	1,531
Touchdowns	7	7	5
Interceptions	4	5	6
QB Rating	88.5	81	84.8

It's Time, DHB

2009-08-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

DHB had arguably his best week of practice leading up to the game tomorrow vs. the Saints. Cable praised DHB and raised the bar. In reference to a spectacular catch by DHB, Cable said, "He had a great day of catching the ball. Right after he caught it, I said to him, 'Your mistake is you showed me you can do that and, so now, the expectation goes up. That's who you are. That's what you're capable of."

It is time for DHB to start building momentum and confidence leading up to the regular season opener on Sept. 14. He needs to prove to himself, his teammates, and the coaching staff that he can carry a good week of practice into an actual game. I don't care how many circus catches he makes in Napa or Alameda if it doesn't translate to reliable production on game day.

The game vs. the Saints is significant for DHB for a few reasons. First, it is the last meaningful exhibition game where starters will be given significant time on the field. In the last pre-season game vs. the Hawks, the starters will only get a series or two before being yanked for injury precautions. Secondly, DHB needs to test himself vs. quality cornerbacks to build his confidence. He also needs to start developing a chemistry and building trust with QB JaMarcus Russell.

The Raiders Nation knows DHB is more than capable of running deep routes to clear the field for other Raider skilled players. We also know that he is a hard working, humble young man who could become a big play threat. What I'm interested in seeing on Saturday is DHB running a full complement of routes with precision and showcasing his ability to secure the ball and gain yards after the catch. With DHB's blinding speed there should be a cushion of space for him to work the underneath routes and comeback patterns. Lastly, it would be ideal for the Russell to DHB combination to put on film a deep ball connection. It will become much easier to force opponents to double team and account for DHB if he is producing and a legitmitate deep ball threat. DHB can make a valuable contribution to the team and impact a game with his big play ability.

CJ's 2 Cents

2009-08-25T21:20:00.001-07:00

The Raiders defensive front 7 got completely mauled last Saturday by the Niners in a 20-21 loss. The Niners rang up 275 yards on the ground on 47 carries. In the context of an exhibition game, what really concerns me most is what happened in the 1st half when the Raiders played most of their defensive starters.

It is startling that 1 basic play was run over and over and over again by the Niners with continued success. Rookie RB Coffee was able to gouge the Raiders defense for 129 yards on only 16 carries which equates to over 8 yards per carry. This basic play was the Niners guards pulling and the tackles power blocking.

Said defensive end Greg Ellis: “They were pulling some of the linemen around and we’re just going to look at it. I’m pretty sure the coaches are going to come up with a solution to make sure that doesn’t happen again. It wasn’t like they were able to run any play and get yardage on us. That one play, we just didn’t handle it well. They did what they should, they kept doing it one side to the other and they kept having success with it.”

The question I have is why an in-game adjustment wasn't made by Defensive Coordinator John Marshall? Improving the run defense is paramount for any team success in 2009.

Unfortunately, the run defensive woes isn't just 1 thing that can be easily "tweaked". It is a combination of numerous factors.

(1) Poor tackling

There were plenty of times vs. SF where (a) our players are in the right spot but lacking the fundamental techniques to bring the carrier down upon contact or (b) the Raider defender allowed the ball carrier to drag him for an addition 2,3,4 extra yards.

(2) Inability of the DL and LBs to get off/shed their blockers

Watching the game vs. SF, what I noticed was that the Raider D had a VERY difficult time disengaging from their counterpart. Shedding the blocker and wrapping up the RB is basic stuff that was faulty throughout most of this game.

(3) Lack of discipline

Each individual player needs to focus on his individual assignment/responsibility and trust that their teammates will do their own job. This was evident every time a defender over pursued and neglected maintaining gap control.

(4) Lack of aggression and toughness

The Raiders front 7 got completely manhandled by the Niners OLine. Cable put it correctly although he used a poor choice of words when he said that the defenders "need to set their jaw". In other words, winning the physical one on one matchups is the essence of winning the battle.

(5) Lack of in-game adjustments by the coaching staff

This is in reference to countering what the opponent is doing. Changing up defensive playcalling, adjusting formations, schemes, gap controls, and personnel accordingly is imperative to stopping the bleeding.

(6) Lack of talented run stoppers

Our front 7 that doesn't have 1 single player who is noted for being a good run stopper. Since we don't have any outstanding run defenders, the team needs to compensate for this lack of talent with discipline, scheme and collective aggression, and most importantly, a coaching staff that puts a premium on improving this area.

My personal belief is that the Raiders need to commit their energies, coaches' meetings, personnel, and focus to making the necessary improvement of run defense PRIORITY #1. If this means sticking SS Tyvon Branch in the box, so be it. If it means putting in the best personnel at stopping the run, I'm all for it. For example, I wouldn't be opposed to using DE Trevor Scott as only a situational pass rusher. I wouldn't disparge the useage of newly acquired LB Nap Harris even if it means sitting Kirk Morrison. If it requires scouring the waiver wire for a run plugging DT, go for it.

Whatever it takes to force the opponent to put the ball in the air to beat us the better chance we have to win. Pass defense is clearly the strength of the unit. If we allow opponents to run the ball down our throat without an answer, it will be next to impossible to have a successful 2009 campaign. Sure, it might have been only a preseason game in August but I don't think it is too early to ring the bells in order to put the emphasis and urgency in fixing this major shortcoming.

P.S. Hard to believe but "CJ's 2 Cents" was my 200th post at SBF ... time flies by way too fast!

POW! Or No KAPOW?

2009-08-17T19:35:00.000-07:00

According to Nancy Gay at AOL Fanhouse, Tom Cable punched Defensive Assistant Coach Randy Hanson on August 5th at the Raiders Napa Valley training site. Since Hanson had to go to the emergency hospital with what is being reported as a fractured jaw, the hospital was obligated to report it to the police department as a possible assault.

Just when the Raiders seemed to be having a controversy free, business like training camp, this incident crops up. If Cable did in fact assault Hanson, it was a serious mental meltdown. Whatever Hanson did or said to anger Cable, Cable showed a lack of leadership and judgment in how he conducted himself. These are the type of distractions that a Head Coach is responsible for eliminating not starting himself.

According to Police Lt. McGovern, he considers the matter closed at this point, "unless we are re-contacted by the victim, and the victim changes their mind that they want us to follow through and pursue an investigation. At this point we're not doing anything else with it."

UPDATE:
In a surprise twist to this speculative story, Pro Football Talk reports that ESPN has a different take. ESPN backs Cable's denial of sucker punching Hanson. I'm sure this isn't the last we've heard on this story.

I must admit, in today's 24/7/365 "news" cycle, it is easy to be a little too quick on the trigger. I will say this though ... If the real facts paint a far different picture of the alleged incident than the one Nancy Gay posted, she is in for a rude awakening from the Raider Nation. If Gay was factually incorrect about her post AND her "sources" are not credible, I will personally lambaste Gay to no end for irresponsible, damaging, unprofessional, and cowardly journalism. Stay tuned!

UPDATE 2:
From ESPN; "But Cable told ESPN's Mark Schlereth later Monday that no punches were thrown.

That's backed up by what a former NFL scout Daniel Jeremiah told ESPN's Chris Mortensen. Jeremiah's "reliable source" said that Hanson broke a facial bone when his cheek hit a cabinet in a team meeting room when Cable flipped him out of his chair.

Jeremiah also wrote on his Twitter page that Cable reacted when Hanson spoke profanely to defensive coordinator John Marshall. He rebuked Hanson, then pushed his chair, which caused the injury."

Dallas vs. Oakland

2009-08-09T20:55:00.000-07:00

With the preseason starting up this week, I exchanged a friendly Q&A with a Cowboys blogger named Phillip from http://www.dallascowboysnation.com/. The Raiders play the Cowboys this Thursday night in Oakland for their first preseason game. It will be interesting to see how sharp the Raiders execute the game plan coming off of 2 weeks of training camp. I am excited to see some of the new players (Greg Ellis, Lorenzo Neal) and rookies (DHB, Mike Mitchell, Louis Murphy) perform for the 1st time in Raiders gear. Later this year, the Raiders visit the Cowboys on November 26th on Thansgiving Day for their 11th regular season game.

These are my questions with Phillip's answers directly below. To see my answers to Phillip's questions, go to http://dallascowboysnation.com/2009/08/weekly-roundup-cowboys-raiders/.

1. Give the Raider fans some valuable insight on Greg Ellis as a player, teammate, and person. Do you think he will make an impact as a base DE in our 4-3 alignment?

Greg Ellis for the largest portion of his career with the Cowboys was an exceptional player! He is a very gifted athlete, strong, smart, and can play just about anywhere. No one has ever questioned Greg the person; by all accounts he is just an outstanding individual. Greg as a teammate, well that depends! If you are asking about the Greg Ellis that completely confident in his place on the team, well he is an exceptional teammate. On the other hand if you are asking about the Greg Ellis of today that is much older and much less confident on where he stands, well do not expect a lot of mentoring of younger players and such. Greg is just the type of person that wears his heart on his sleeve, and gets his feelings hurt very easily. He could be a very big contributor to your team as a DE, he fills that position very well. Greg is most comfortable as a DE.

2. Is the clock ticking on the tenure of Head Coach Phillips? Do you expect Phillips to be your head coach in 2010 or is it more likely that Mike Shanahan will be hired?

The clock on any coach in the NFL begins as soon as they accept the position! Wade Phillips is no different, Wade catches a lot of grief and some of it due to his making but quite a bit of it has nothing to do with him. This team must make a deep push into the playoffs this year or there will be a ton of heads rolling around Valley Ranch, one of those most assuredly will be Wade Phillips. From there though I have no idea what Double J may do?

3. Here in Southern California, I have noticed many proud, brash Cowboy fans at bars and in the general public. Have you noticed a strong contingent of the Raider Nation in Texas?

Other than the handful of times I have been to Southern California I have never seen a strong contingent of the “Raider Nation” anywhere much less Texas!

4. Which rival do you take the most satisfaction in beating? Is it the Giants, Redskins, or Eagles?

That is a very tough question, simply because I take a great deal of satisfaction in beating all of those teams! If I had to just pick one though, I must go with the Redskins. There is no better day than a day that includes a beat down of the Redskins!

5. Give us your prediction on the Raiders at Cowboys game on Thanksgiving Day ... your overall prediction for both team's records in 2009?

While I really like a few of your players there, the Raiders stand absolutely no chance at winning this game! As long as the Vampire is calling the shots in Raider Nation you guys are destined to lose! The Cowboys are just way to strong on both sides of the ball for this game to be any closer than 10 points.

6. You are probably aware of the Raiders recent 6 years of ineptitude. Set me straight ... is the current Cowboy playoff win drought eating you alive?

Of course it is! All of us longtime Cowboy fans though have been here before; it sucks to lose in the playoffs. What is more aggravating about it though is to see the likes of ESPN and Douchebags like them point fingers at unwarranted people for being the cause if this run. It took this team a long time to figure out how to work the salary cap; therefore it took a longtime to reload. Jerry Jones was a huge part of this problem, maybe even the entire problem. I can tell you this though, the problems this team had when this streak began are not the problems today. This is a young team, and all young teams go through growing pains.

Number Crunching on Run DMc

2009-07-28T18:53:00.001-07:00

The upcoming 2009 season has consumed my thoughts. The one guy on the Raiders' squad who I sincerely believe is on the cusp of stardom is running back Darren McFadden. In his rookie campaign, Run DMc gave the Nation a brief glimpse of his talent in game #2 at Kansas City. In this early season contest, McFadden demonstrated his big play ability, breakaway speed, and dynamic playmaking skills. Of course, as we all know, late in the game he suffered his first turf toe injury and he simply wasn't the same player for the remainder of the season. Although he battled 2 turf toe injuries and played fairly well at less than 100%, his inconsistent reps. prevented him from getting in a true rhythm.

Going into the 2009 season, these are the numbers I project for #20:

Based on the Raiders getting approximately 60 offensive snaps per game, I predict the Raiders will run the ball about 33 times per game (33 runs to 27 passes or a 55% to 45% run pass ration).

With McFadden as the lead back, I'm guessing that he will get 288 carries for the season (18 rush attempts per game average which is 55% of the rushing load).

Since the Raiders passing attack is a work in progress with the development of Russell and some of the younger WRs (DHB, Murphy, Schillens, JLH), I would anticipate McFadden being an integral weapon in the passing playbook. Split out wide, set in motion, circling out of the backfield, delayed screens are some of the ways the Raiders will utilize McFadden's skills and to create favorable matchups. A conservative estimate of the number of balls thrown to McFadden should fall in the range of 3-6 per game.

Number Crunching / Predictions:

Rush Attempts Per Game: 18

Rush Attempts Season: 288

Yards per carry: 4.5

Total Rushing Yards: 1,296 yards

Rushing TDs: 6

Receptions: 64

Yards per reception: 9.0

Total reception yards: 586

Receiving TDs: 4

Total TDs: 10

Total Yards: 1,882

To top it off, I expect McFadden to have 2-4 pass attempts out of the wild cat formation. There is no doubt in my mind that the Raiders coaching staff needs to use McFadden in a variety of creative ways to be the engine to the offense. Mixing and matching the RBs, using different formations and sets, and forcing the opponent to account for McFadden are some of the keys to a successful season. I'm really excited about the Raiders developing their core skill players on offense. The Raiders 2009 offense has the potential to become a special unit and McFadden is the fulcrum for making it a reality. I don't discount the fact that Russell needs to play an instrumental role in the offense's success. Yet, I firmly believe that the dynamic playmaking ability of McFadden will make Russell's transition into a franchise type QB that much easier.

Training Camp Questions

2009-07-21T21:17:00.001-07:00

All of us are itching for the Raiders to get into gear, throw on the pads, and get training camp underway. Here are a few questions to contemplate before training camp opens in 8 days:

(1) Will any of the rookies emerge in training camp and make an impact in the 2009 season?

My hunch is that WR DHB will be given every opportunity to earn reps. as a #3 WR and big play threat. SS Mike Mitchell aka Eminem will make an instant impact as a special teams contributor and earn a starting role by week 8. The consensus from OTA reports and mini camp is that WR Louis Murphy is a special and talented player who could be the wild card in the WR corps. TE Brandon Myers fills the role of the blocking TE who allows TE Miller to release as a pass catcher.

(2) Who will be the recipient of Mitchell's first KO blow in camp?

The Raider Nation is eagerly anticipating the intimidating presence of Mitchell in the secondary. I'm guessing that Shillens will be the WR who is lit up first on a crossing pattern by Mitchell. Raider snot bubbles are worth the price of admission! It has been far too long since we've had the type of hitter that causes opponent's WRs to get alligator arms.

(3) Who will earn the SLB and LT positions?

The lead candidates are Jon Alston and Mario Henderson but until they put the pads on, you just never know. These are 2 critical positions that the Raiders need to lock down. It has been countless years since we've had high performance and stability at these important positions. Alston is competing with Ricky Brown while Henderson is going up against veteran FA acquisition Khalif Barnes.

(4) How strong of a relationship will develop between HC Cable and QB Russell?

The tide of the Raiders will rise or fall depending on the performance and leadership of these 2 men. One could argue that the Head Coach and QB are the 2 most important leaders of a team and have the lion's share of responsibility and impact. There is no doubt in my mind that Cable and Russell's careers depend upon each other. Cable needs to calibrate his use of the carrot and the stick with Russell to maximize his development. Russell needs to take heed and become a true franchise QB.

Onward & Upward ... Calico Jack

Garcia The Firestarter

2009-07-11T22:20:00.000-07:00

The goals of Al Davis signing Jeff Garcia to a contract are two fold:

#1: Sign a veteran QB to act as a capable backup and insurance policy in case JaMarcus Russell gets injured.

#2: Allow Garcia's competitiveness to light a fire under Russell's ass and push him to greater heights.

The season hasn't started and in my humble opinion, both goals have been realized. For starters, Garcia is a much more accomplished and established backup than Andrew Walter or Tui could ever hope to be. But more importantly, the signing and presence of Garcia has been a huge boost and instigator to get Russell to take the next steps in his career progression. I hope Russell feels threatened by Garcia. I hope Russell senses Garica breathing down his neck.

There has clearly been an added dimension and focus to how Russell has reacted this offseason. Players on the offensive unit have remarked to the media about Russell's improved command of the huddle in OTAs. Russell took it upon himself to organize and pay for WRs to join him in Alabama to work on their timing and build a rapport. Russell has even been confident enough about his offseason conditioning that he has made a friendly wager with his head coach about coming into camp at a designated weight.

Although Russell is only 23 years old, he isn't naive. He is aware of the statements Garcia has made to the press about being the guy who gives the Raiders the best chance to win. I love it. Russell is a prideful, confident, talented QB. The signing of Garcia gave him that little extra juice to start doing all of the extra things required of a franchise QB.

Dash, Smash, and Crash (Video)

2009-07-06T20:01:00.000-07:00

The original video is labeled as "Smash (Bush), Slash (Fargas), and Dash (McFadden)". I took some creative editing liberties and changed it to "Dash (McFadden), Smash (Bush), and Crash (Fargas)". First, I changed the order to reflect what I consider the true depth chart which is McFadden as the lead back, Bush as the #2 back, and Fargas at #3. I also changed Fargas nickname from "Slash" to "Crash" since one of his real nicknames is "Crash Test Dummy".

This video showcases each RB's different skill set and running style. The engine to getting the offensive unit's RPM up is clearly the 3 headed monster. I eagerly anticipate Cable using McFadden and Bush in a variety of creative ways in both the running game and passing attack. It will be interesting to see how the carries are distributed amongst the 3 backs. One offensive scheme that I think could be very effective is a 2 back set of McFadden and Bush in the backfield with the option of putting either RB in motion. In my view, it is critical to the Raiders overall success in 09 that McFadden is on the field as much as possible. His big play ability and multiple skills (run, catch, pass, decoy) forces the opponent to account for him and adjust their focus accordingly. This creates a multiple of opportunities for the other offensive skill position players.

80 Years Young

2009-07-03T21:44:00.000-07:00

Not enough room on the cake to stick 80 candles but nevertheless, "Happy Birthday Al!" If you were to go back as far as his days in high school in Brooklyn, Davis has been involved, immersed, fascinated, and in love with the game of football for 67 consecutive years. It is rare to find someone who has kept a singular focus and passion burning so bright for so many years in a truly remarkable career. In case you were wondering what I got Al for his BDay, see below!

Raiders Sign Veteran Greg Ellis

2009-06-15T19:20:00.001-07:00

The Raiders signed veteran DE/LB Greg Ellis to a 3 year deal today with the contract details unknown. Ellis, who was cut by the Cowboys a few weeks ago, will transition from a 3-4 LB to a 4-3 DE. Does this move mean that Derrick Burgess will be shipped off for a 3rd round pick? I am hopeful that the organization will keep DBurg around 1 more season to squeeze as much production from him in a contract year.

If DBurg stays in Oakland, this is the list of DLineman competing for a spot on the final 53 man roster:

DE Derrick Burgess, Greg Ellis, Jay Richardson, Trevor Scott, Greyson Gunheim, Stryker Sulak (R)

DT Gerrard Warren, Tommy Kelly, Terdell Sands, Ryan Boschetti, William Joseph

Greg Ellis - 6'6", 262 lbs, 11 year veteran
2008 Stats: 36 tackles (25 solo); 1 interception, 8 sacks

Ellis is 10-year veteran with very good size and adequate speed and quickness. He reacts quickly to the run. He has good size and strength to maintain effective hand use. He has long arms to stack and shed. He will get upright with his pad level, but has good strength and balance to keep his feet. He's a former defensive end who understands leverage. He can play physical and get off blocks with good timing. He is still quick enough to work his feet and re-gain outside leverage. He is also quick enough to contain and force running backs back inside. He has adequate acceleration in space with good effort to pursue from behind. As a pass rusher, the Cowboys will bring him off the edge from a three-point stance where he has good success recording sacks when his hand is on the ground. He has strength in his upper body to re-work his hands inside then react off of the offensive tackle's technique. He's physical with his hands and works to finish. He is also strong with the ability to rip inside-out. He has a variety of pass-rush moves including spins and counters. He does a good job turning speed to power. He will get upright on counter moves, but comes hard inside and has strength into traffic. He has some limitations in coverage due to his lack of burst in space. He will stall changing direction and lack the quickness to break down consistently, when isolated.

Fun Photos

2009-05-21T21:24:00.001-07:00

Here are 4 photos that I find amusing or interesting for different reasons:

Is there any doubt who owns this nice trinket? If it was up to me, I would have advised him to go for the home jersey in onyx and the jersey number and name in ice.

Godfather bling supreme. Added bonus: It goes with the entire wardrobe!

The ultimate way to travel. The Oakland Raiders partner with Air Asia to market the Raider Nation brand globally. Nice ... very nice!

Last but not least, how about some serious ink. Is there any doubts whatsoever that this dude is a die-hard?

The Oakland Fury - Video

2009-05-18T19:29:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed watching this 2008 video showcasing some of the young guns on offense. The Raiders have a strong core of young, skilled players on offense that should develop into an electric group. This group consists of Russell, Run DMc, Bush, JLH, DBH, Chaz, and Zach Miller. Enjoy the video and "Stay thirsty, my friends!" :D CJ is about to enjoy an ice cold Dos XX. Cheers Raider fans!

3 Headed Monster

2009-05-17T18:24:00.000-07:00

One of the Raiders' biggest strengths going into the 2009 season will be the offensive rushing attack. I believe that one of the most important elements to the Raiders overall success as a team will be determined by how the RBs are utilized.

It will be imperative for Head Coach Cable to use his trio of backs in a creative, diversified, and prudent manner. Darren McFadden, Michael Bush, and Justin Fargas are each more than capable of being the "lead" back. Each component of the 3 headed monster has a different running style and brings a different skill set to the table.

Darren McFadden
In the case of Darren McFadden, he would seem to be the prime candidate to be the lead back due to his explosive talent and overall versatility. The way that I view Run DMc is that he is the type of weapon who deserves as many touches and time on the field as possible. When 100% healthy, #20 showed his electric play making ability vs. K.C. in week 2. In this game, McFadden ran the ball 21 times for 164 yards (7.8 YPC) and 1 TD. After suffering through multiple bouts of the dreaded turf toe, McFadden gutted through the rest of the season. The turf toe kept McFadden's season rushing attempts to a minimum (113) yet he was still productive at 4.4 YPC and 499 rushing yards and 29 receptions.

One of the most important goals Cable should have for each game is to creatively mix and match his complement of running backs to maximize matchups. It is also critical from a strategic standpoint to keep McFadden on the field the vast majority of snaps. Here are some of the sets where McFadden forces the opponent's D to account for his presence:

* McFadden as a single back; 3 WR set
* McFadden in the I formation with Neal as his lead blocker
* McFadden in the I formation with Bush; McFadden motions out of the backfield as a WR
* McFadden in a 2 RB set with either Fargas or Bush
* McFadden lined up in the slot as a WR
* McFadden out wide as the Z WR
* McFadden as a QB in the wild cat formation; run/pass option

Run, catch, and pass ... McFadden is a big play waiting to happen.

CJ's prediction: McFadden - 272 rush attempts (17 per game) x 4.5 YPC = 1,224 yards; 45 receptions

Michael Bush
Michael Bush's extraordinary performance vs. TBay in the last game of the season sets things up for him to move to the #2 back in terms of carries. Prior to the TBay game, Bush received very little playing time and opportunities to show off his talent. Playing a Bucs team gunning for a playoff berth, Bush demonstrated his future worth to the Raiders by ringing up 177 yards on 27 carries (6.6 YPA) plus 2 TDs. This breakout performance was no fluke. Bush was one of the most productive running backs in the history of the NCAA. It was an awakening for Raider fans and coaches alike because it was the first time in Bush's 2 year career that he received 20+ carries in a single game.

Bush would have been a sure-fire 1st round selection in the 2007 draft if not for suffering a broken leg in his senior season at Louisville. He has a unique combination of attributes which makes him a perfect complimentary back to McFadden. His size (245lbs) strength, and straight-line speed is ideal as a 1 cut and go, between the tackles, downhill locomotive for the Raiders ZBS. Michael also has very soft hands as a pass catcher and the ability to pass on selected trick plays.

CJ's prediction:
Bush - 144 rush attempts (9 per game) x 4.4 YPC = 633 yards; 32 receptions

Justin Fargas
Justin Fargas, aka "Test Crash Dummy", is the ultimate selfless team warrior. Last year he led the team in carries (218) but produced only 3.4 YPC. His reckless, hard-charging running style does serve a valuable purpose. Fargas all-out efforts and determination is an inspirational reminder to the rest of the team. However, with the emergence of Bush at the end of the season and McFadden being a player capable of becoming an elite back, I believe Fargas' carries will be minimized to roughly 6-8 carries per game. As a back-up, change of pace, and injury insurance, Fargas will still be a key cog in the 3 headed monster. Each game in a 16 game season has unique and varied circumstances. Depending on injuries, opponent, weather conditions, and other variables, each back has an opportunity to be a difference maker.

CJ's prediction:
Fargas - 112 rush attempts (7 per game) x 4.0 YPC = 448 yards; 15 receptions

CJ's prediction on the 3 Headed Monster's production: 528 rush attempts for 2,335 yards

Six - The Hard Way

2009-05-13T20:45:00.000-07:00

In my last post, I took out a wide angle lens to frame the Raiders success over the past 46 years in comparison with our divisional rivals.

Tonight, I have the unpleasant task of focusing on the Raiders past 6 seasons in comparison with the entire league.

After reviewing all 32 teams' season records and playoff berths, only 5 of the 32 teams had the undesirable combination of (1) no playoff berths and (2) three or more seasons of double digit losses.

Oakland - No playoff berths + 6 seasons of 10+ losses
Detroit - No playoff berths + 5 seasons of 10+ losses
Cleveland - No playoff berths + 5 seasons of 10+ losses
San Francisco - No playoff berths + 3 seasons of 10+ losses
Houston - No playoff berths + 3 seasons of 10+ losses

There were additional teams that met half the parameters but not both such as:

Buffalo - No playoff berths + 2 seasons of 10+ losses
St.Louis - 2 playoff berths + 3 seasons of 10+ losses
Miami - 1 playoff berth + 3 seasons of 10+ losses
Arizona - 1 playoff berth (SB appearance) + 4 seasons of 10+ losses
Washington - 2 playoff berth2 + 3 seasons of 10+ losses

The elite teams over this six year span clearly were the following teams:

New England - 5 playoff berths, 3 SB appearances, 2 SB victories + 0 seasons of 10+ losses
Pittsburgh - 4 playoff berths, 2 SB appearances, 2 SB victories + 1 season of 10+ losses
Indy - 6 playoff berths, 1 SB appearances, 1 SB victory + 0 seasons of 10+ losses
NYG - 4 playoff berths, 1 SB appearances, 1 SB victories + 2 seasons of 10+ losses
Seattle - 5 playoff berths, 1 SB appearances + 1 season of 10+ losses
Philly - 4 playoff berths, 1 SB appearances + 1 season of 10+ losses
San Diego - 4 playoff berths + 1 season of 10+ loss

You might be asking "So ... what's your point, Calico Jack?" Let me share my untarnished opinions and you are welcome to take them for what they are worth.

#1 There are bad seasons (no playoffs, 10+ losses), mediocre seasons (7-9 wins; no playoffs) and good seasons (10+ wins, playoffs). 6 bad seasons in a row is nothing short of vomit stew.

#2 In a league driven by parity, 6 seasons of ineptitude is totally inexcusable. Only 16% of the entire league (5 of 32 teams) were true bottom feeders.

#3 When you start stacking enough consecutive double digit loss seasons together, a losing culture and dysfunction rears it's ugly head.

#4 The 2 key alpha leaders of any franchise are the QB & Head Coach. Since Gannon went down, it has been an endless cycle of poor performing QBs and a Head Coaching carousel.

#5 JaMarcus Russell and Tom Cable need to end this vicious cycle now by providing the required top level performance and leadership.

#6 Any way you slice it, this has been the worst stretch in the franchise's proud history.

#7 Lucky Number 7 as in season 7 needs to see tangible progress. Solid improvement would be a 7,8,9 win season. This would be gaining traction, establishing consistency, and building stability. Another 4,5,6 season is continued ineptitude and another "Oh sh*t, here we go again".

AFC WEST Scoreboard (1963 to Present)

2009-05-08T21:56:00.000-07:00

Being a Raider fan has been especially difficult the past 6 seasons. What really gets under my nerves are the fans from our divisional rivals who talk trash but don't have the numbers to back up their unfounded rubbish.

Most of this gibberish tends to center around putting down owner Al Davis. Al Davis joined the Raiders in 1963 as Head Coach and General Manager. The numbers below paint the accomplishments of each respective divisional team throughout this period of time. By any objective standard for measuring and comparing these franchises, the Raiders have clearly been the team which has been the most successful. Using the 7 categories below, the Raiders outrank the Chiefs and Chargers across the board. The Raiders outrank the Broncos in 5 of 7 categories.

Here is the true AFC West scoreboard from 1963 to the present:

Category	Oak	Den	KC	SD
Playoff Appearances (seasons)	21	17	14	14
Playoff Wins (games)	25	17	7	10
Divisional Titles	16	10	6	12
AFC Championship Appearances	12	8	3	7
AFC Championship Titles	5	6	2	1
Super Bowl Appearances	5	6	2	1
Super Bowl Championships	3	2	1	0

Taking it 1 step further, here are additional facts for divisional rival foes to calibrate the next time they open their pie holes:

San Diego: Prior to the 2007 season, the Chargers last playoff victory came in 1994. The trophy case remains void of a single Lombardi Trophy.

Kansas City: The Chiefs only Super Bowl victory was 40 years ago and last playoff win was in 1993. 16 years have gone by without a single playoff victory and you want to harp on the Raiders recent 6 season swoon?

Denver: Since Elway hung up his cleats after the 1998 season, the Broncos have won 1 divisional title and 1 playoff game.

Oakland: To put the above facts in perspective, the Raiders have won 4 playoff games, 3 divisional titles and appeared in the Super Bowl within the last 9 years.

JaMarcus Russell - The Franchise

2009-05-06T21:47:00.000-07:00

After getting a full season as the starter under his belt in 2008, Russell is ready to make the next leap in his career progression. As fans, we got a glimpse of the game slowing down for #2 in the last 6 games of the season. Enjoy the video and "Stay thristy, my friends!" C.J. :D

Throwback AFL Uniforms

2009-05-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

As a part of the 50 year AFL anniversary, 8 teams including the Raiders will be busting out throwback uniforms during selected games in the 2009 season.

From NBCBayAreaSports:

“Interestingly, the throwback Raider uniforms are not the original uniforms they wore in 1960, the season we're celebrating the anniversary of here. From 1960-1962, the Raiders wore gold and black. But Al Davis switched the team colors to silver and black when he took over as coach and general manager in 1963.”

Here are the 4 games that the Raiders will be wearing their 1963 uniforms and helmets:

Monday, September 14: Chargers at Raiders
Sunday, October 25: Jets/Titans at Raiders
Sunday, November 15: Chiefs/Dallas Texans at Raiders
Thursday, November 26: Raiders at Cowboys (Thanksgiving Day game)

DBH + Stop Watch = Bad Pick

2009-04-25T14:25:00.001-07:00

Well ... so much for all of my theories about Cable having a strong influence on the draft. The biggest influence on the Raiders #7 pick was simply a stop watch. The stop watch read 4.3 for WR Darius Heyward Bey (DHB). DHB was the pick. There is no point in analyzing the decision. The stop watch and the stop watch alone dictated this pick.

I guess if DHB is going to be a support piece for QB Russell, it means dialing up numerous fly patterns. I'm disappointed with this pick for so many reasons. To pass on such players as Eugene Monroe (LT), Michael Oher (LT), B.J. Raji (DT), Michael Crabtree (WR) for a guy like DBH who is valued as a late first round, early second round pick is mind blowing. I'm not down on DBH. I'm down on Davis going plastic fantastic with this huge reach pick. Of course I will support DBH. It is my hope that DBH can be the beneficiary of Russell's cannon arm. I will have more opinions about the draft later and hope that we hit a few bulls eyes in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round to make up for this blunder.

Draft Day Musings

2009-04-25T11:53:00.001-07:00

T minus 2 hours until the 2009 NFL Draft.

I have one simple, coherent thought leading up to the #7 pick. Which player will be available on the draft board who will give JaMarcus Russell the best possible chance to succeed in 2009?

Will it be an OT protecting his blind side and giving him the time to make his 2nd and 3rd reads? Eugene Monroe, Andre Smith, and Michael Oher are solid prospects.

Will it be a dynamic WR who can create separation and produce TDs? Michael Crabtree produced 41 TDs in 2 seasons.

Will it be a DT who improves the run D and allows the offense to get the ball back? B.J. Raji could provide the depth to the interior line to make a noticeable impact.

Or finally, will it be trading the #7 pick for multiple picks to a team like the Skins or Jets who covet QB Mark Sanchez?

At the end of the day, the focus of the draft, the coaching staff, and the organization in general should be to do everything possible to give Russell all of the necessary tools, weapons, guidance, and support to lead the Raiders forward.