Silver And Black Pride

Talkin' With Tyvon - #11

2009-11-17T16:17:35Z

Greetings my fellow members of the Silver and Black Pride community! I am pleased to bring to all of you the 11th installment in the series, Talkin' With Tyvon, from Raiders starting strong safety Tyvon Branch.

This week's edition is a little longer as it covers some of the period during the bye-week when we only had one installment. Tyvon discusses the various topic both prior to and following the Chiefs game.

The Community is invited to pose some questions for Tyvon in the comments section and he will do his best to get as many of them answered as quickly as possible:

Hello Raider Fans...sorry I was unable to get in touch with you last week. It was a busy week, and we all had some time to rest up. I also had the opportunity to reconnect with some of my UCONN teammates and discuss the tragedy that occurred there. It makes you really value what we have. My thoughts and prayers are with Howard family. It definitely puts things into perspective.

Unfortunately we were unable to come away with a win yesterday, but the bye week allowed us to go over some much needed adjustments. I thought we had them this week, but we were unable to capitalize on some of their mistakes. That was one of the key points Coach Cable stressed. We have to take advantage of every opportunity. People always say good teams find ways to win. Well we need to start finding those ways. We felt great coming into the game, some things just did not go our way.

TB

SABP: With a 2-7 record, it's very easy to get discouraged, but it is evident that you are playing with a lot of energy out there. What are the things that you are doing to keep yourself motivated under the circumstances of this season?

TB: Having the opportunity to play football for a living keeps me motivated. We put in an extensive amount of time, but it is great to be out there on Sunday's with the fans. You guys keep us going. Thank you for your support.

SABP: You were in the Chiefs game all the way and the defense held them to 16 points. Does the defense feel any add pressure thinking that they have to keep teams to 10 points or less to have a chance for win?

TB: Our goal is to always go for a shutout. Obviously this is a tough task, but we never feel pressure to keep them to a certain point level. We just go out and try to make plays. Putting pressure on your self can cause unnecessary mistakes, and that is something we do not need.

SABP: You have the surprising high-flying Bengals coming in with all of their offensive talent. What are your thoughts on how you will personally prepare for the challenges of that offense?

TB: They are going to be tough. Offensively I do not think they scored a TD this week, but their D looks great. We need to go out and shut down their running attack. That has been a surprise this year, but with Carson back there they are tough all around. Once I get a chance to watch more film this week, I will have a better idea of our gameplan.

(Editor's note: The following two questions were asked to Tyvon during the bye-week prior to the Chiefs game)

SABP: It has been reported that during the Raiders bye-week that the team practiced last Wednesday and Thursday and worked exclusively on correcting the various problems the team had during the first 8 games. How did that go and do you think the various problems were corrected?

TB: Practices went well. I know we have the talent out here. We continually give up some big plays and that hurts us. Minimizing those was a big focus. I think we did a relatively decent job against the Chiefs keeping the big plays to a minimum. We need to build on that.

SABP: The bye-week must have been good for everyone to get healthy, in fact Coach Cable believes that the returning injured players are going to make a big difference in the teams' play. Can you say if noticed a difference on the practice field with the returning injured players?

TB: I would say there was more confidence all week. The team realizes we need to be healthy, and getting some guys back will help. There was also a more upbeat feel to practice.

Thanks Tyvon for taking the time to answer all the questions and good luck against the Bengals.

A Day in the Life of Tom Cable: Part Deux

2009-11-19T21:17:51Z

For A Day in the Life pt. 1 click here.

When we left: Tom Cable was waiting for players to arrive for their Monday meetings.

Cable, trying to rub away the pickaxe-wielding gnomes in his head, is waiting for Russell while trying to think of a new way to reach him.

“Maybe I should invite him over for dinner like Al Pacino invited Steamin’ Willie Beamon in On Any Given Sunday. Wait, that’s not going to work. What am I going to do, microwave some Hot Pockets and have a sit down in the office? Maybe I could make him watch the movie; or, better yet—I should invite him over to my house. He and my wife can work some things out while I relax here.”

Cable reaches for the intercom, “Les, where’s JaSuckus? Please tell me that he at least bothered to show up...or, better yet, quit.”

“Oh yeah, apparently he was here before the morning crew started their 5 a.m. shift.”

“Really? That’s outstanding.”

“Well, it would be, except he is passed out in the cafeteria under his new fur jacket. The cleanup guy thought he was a wild animal and whacked him with his mop, but he didn’t even move. He kept poking him until JaMarcus threw his cell phone at him.”

“Ugh...did it hurt the guy?”

“You’re kidding, right? It missed him by a mile. It did go through the wall and left a two-foot hole, though. We got a crew trying to get him up now.”

“Commitment to excellence,” Cable says.

In the background he overhears Les’ TV: “Breaking news!” accompanied by various whizzing sound effects. “Chris Mortenson is live with new developments on Tom ‘The Incredible Hulk’ Cable.”

Cable shakes his head and thinks “Oh good, I was wondering what was taking them so long.”

“Les!” Cable shouts through the door, hoping to bypass the intercom and consequently the reports, “get me What’s-a-football-Bey instead!”

Les hits the intercom button. “You got it.”

In the half-second the button was pressed, Cable catches Mortenson saying “...more than assault...”

Les presses the button again. “On his way coach; he is at the other end of the building. He should be here in five.”

Mortenson was still going, “peacefully sleeping when Cable tried to sever her fingers...”

“At least they aren’t being unbiased,” Cable thinks to himself.

Ten seconds later, Les buzzes in. “Bey is here.”

Cable hears Mortenson in the background, “innocent housekeeper was assaulted...”

“That was quick,” Cable thinks, back to focusing on his job and not the TV. “He was a half-mile away.” Cable watches his door handle turn a half of a turn and reset, then do the whole thing over again. “Les! Let these guys in the door—this is just embarrassing.”

Les opens the door while Mortenson talks away, “...a deadly weapon.” Cable shakes his head.

“Sorry, coach,” Heyward-Bey says apologetically through a pant. “I can’t keep my grip on the handle. I have a hard time holding onto round things.”

“I’ve noticed, Darrius. Thanks for getting here so quick, though.”

“No problem, coach—I love to run.”

“I know you have been getting good grades, Darrius, and this game you actually got 22 yards, but that last drop you had—well—there is no way to put this gently: It really hurt us. I am afraid I just can’t give you more than a C this week.”

“Oh coach, not a C! My mom is going to kill me. I mean all the guys said they supported me and this can happen to rookies, and I know I need to catch those, but come on! You’ve seen my mom, coach.”

“I know, Darrius, but you can’t very well use your stats to support your play.” Cable says, regretting he ever came up with this grading system in order to protect his young receiver’s fragile psyche. “Look, let’s hope this was just a bad week for you. I want you to go out there and have a strong week of practice. Work on those fundamentals and remember the ball is your friend. Remember how we talked about it not being able to hurt you—that’s all in your head.”

“You’re sure there’s no teeth hidden in the ball, right?”

“I promise, Darrius—look for yourself.” Cable tosses the ball sitting on his desk to Heyward-Bey’s hands.

Picking it up off the floor, Heyward-Bey looks it up and down as he walks out of the office while repeating his mantra, “No teeth, Darrius. Nice ball, Darrius. The ball is our friend, Darrius.”

In the background, Mortenson is still talking: “The houskeeper is recovering from the attempted murder...”

“What?” At his wits' end, Cable had heard enough of that garbage. “Les!” Cable shouts through the door. “Just shout your answers. Is JaHangover on his way yet?”

Les presses the intercom and shouts, “He is up, but apparently he is on his way to Mr. Davis’ office!”

Cable heard Mortenson in the background: “Maria Lutz, Cable’s ex...”

“Les” Cable presses the intercom. “I am going to use the intercom, but from now on you just shout to me, without the intercom. OK?”

“Sure thing, boss,” Les says through the intercom.

Long enough for Cable to hear “assaulted her with deadly weapons...”

“Sorry, that was the last time,” Les pipes in through the intercom.

Mortenson finished his thought: “13 or 22 different times.”

“Get me McSissy, keep me updated on JaNoclue, and send Higgins, Murphy, and Schillens in. No, wait, I’ll talk to Schillens later. Tell him not to move unless he has to,” Cable says, realizing he didn't want the one receiver he trusted to re-injure his foot.

In a desperate search for his aspirin, Cable looks up to see Les open the door. “Darren’s here, coach”

McFadden walks through the doorway. Les put his hand on McFadden’s back to show him in, which knocks McFadden to the ground.

“Christ, Les! You didn’t have to tackle me!” McFadden says, picking up the water bottle he dropped while falling.

Meanwhile, Cable can not help but hear the TV. “Let’s go to Chris Mortenson with some more breaking news...”

“At least,” Cable thinks with an exhale, “they have moved on to another story.”

“Darren, it was great to get you back into the flow last week. How are you feeling?”

“Not good, coach. I got hit like 10 times. The trainers said there was nothing wrong with me, but when I leave here I am going to have them check again.”

“Darren, I want you ready to go. I am thinking of putting in some more plays for you this week. Some things to get you into space...”

“Oh, I like space,” McFadden interrupts. “I don’t think I could get hit hard if everyone is weightless.”

“No, Darren—space on the football field. We need to take advantage of your quickness and your speed. Maybe some pitches, and I also want to line you up wide and run some bubble screens.”

“Oh...well, I’ll let you know what the trainers say, coach. I should be ready to go before the season’s over.”

“Darren, you can leave now.” Cable says, turning to stroke his picture of Justin Fargas for sanity.

“Good talk, coach. I am off to the whirlpool.” McFadden opens the door, thinking, “They need to turn down the water flow, though—it keeps knocking me over.”

While the door is open, Cable hears “after slapping her, she said Tom Cable asked her to wear a veil and told her to stay away from New York on 9/11.”

“What?” Cable thinks, trying to tune it out. “Les, how are we looking with player’s meetings?”

“Well,” Les says into the intercom, “JaMarcus just left Mr. Davis’ office and boss man wants you to call him. Murphy and Higgins are currently stuck shoulder to shoulder in a doorway. They entered the doorway at the same time from different halls and knocked each other over. They got up and did it again. They got up again and now they are just stuck.”

In the background: “she said Cable punched her...”

“Les, what did I say about the intercom?”

“Oh yeah. Sorry, boss,” Les says into the intercom, while Cable hears “...then grabbed his gun and sat on the grassy knoll.”

In a state of disbelief, Cable picks up the phone, and before he even finishishes dialing Davis’ extension, Davis answers. “Russell is benched. I want you to give him the Marcus Allen treatment, Flores. He is done!” Click.

“Wow, maybe my luck is turning,” Cable thinks. “I got a Flores and I get to bench JaMumbles.

Les opens the door. “JaMarcus is here.” Russell walks in.

“Aburighta maLesum mana. High five.” Russell mumbles. Les holds up his hand and Russell swings for a high five, missing, as Les walks out the door.

The door sways open long enough for Cable to hear “she said he slapped her for being Jewish and he and his friend Adolf we going to do something, because Jews were destroying...”

Cable—knocked back by the smell of booze and vomit that accompanied Russell—said, “Jesus, JaMarcus! You smell like a bar bathroom at the end of Mardis Gras.”

“Ahwellum I baslept herez and Iz dranktd a littlez too much and macouldn’t makes it homez.”

“JaMarcus, you need to enunciate. Focus. We have to talk.”

“Whatever, coach; I think it’s your ears, not my talking. Don’t you?” Russell says really slowly, thinking he sounded like an idiot yet made an excellent point. “We do need to talk, though, Cable guy.”

“Al said I was done,” Russell says, still speaking slowly and seeming a little perplexed. “I went up there demanding he get me a new cell phone, because the janitor made me break mine. Also, I need a new beanie since I puked in my good one and I don’t make enough to buy one on my own. He went off, saying, ‘You don’t come here and demand more money from me’ and ‘I am through, blah blah blah.’ He looks like the Emperor from Star Wars when he gets pissed. You want me to play, though, right? You saw it wasn’t big ol’ No. 2’s fault out there, right?”

“Actually, JaMarcus, you are not making the strides I hoped: You are not putting in the extra time, you don’t seem to care, and your accuracy and decision-making is getting worse. You are so hungover now that I think your breath is getting me drunk. Now if you change...”

“Whatever,” Russell interrupts, “it’s all about the Benjamins. I am going to da club. Did I enunciate that well enough?” Russell slowly walks out the door, thinking he's storming. He then tries to slam the door for effect but missed and then leaves, realizing he didn’t care enough to do anything else.

In the background, Cable hears “she told me that Cable slapped her while saying he was going to tell the authorities where to find Jesus.”

Cable, finally able to block it all out, sits back in his chair, and, for the first time all day, lets loose a big smile.

“Les, things are looking up, my friend! Get Gradkowski in here.”

Oakland Raider's Weekly Red Zone Performance:

2009-11-18T22:56:28Z

More photos » by Paul Sakuma - AP

What's a screen pass? That's a dumb name for a pass! I'll never call one of those!!! Let's throw another one deep to Darius!!! (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

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Once again the Oakland Raider Red Zone perfomance was anaemic, to say the least.

After starting the game with THE DRIVE we had been waiting for all year, a 60 yard burst by Michael Bush (Who, inexpli-CABLE-y, only saw the pigskin 15 more times), then a short burst by Fargas and the team was up 7-0.

Unfortunately, that would be the ONLY time that the offense led the team to the Red Zone.

Despite beginning drives from the Kansas City 37 and Oakland's 37 43 and 49, the team would only manage 3 more points.

For a team that has Darren McFadden, Michael Bush and Justin Fargas and averaged 6.1 yards a carry, there is NO excuse for throwing the ball 32 times to receivers who can't catch (Miller only had one catch) from QB's with terrible completion percentages.

One trip to the Red Zone and 10 total points for the game against Kansas City!?!?!

Cable needs to delegate the play calling immediately.

The Defense is doing entirely too much for this clown to be costing us games. That's right Tom, you are a clown of a play caller. Truly. I know you may want to punch me for saying this, but, just look at the facts man, you are a TERRIBLE play caller. Period.

As my old boss used to say, "Fix it".

This post was brought to you by Comcast Red Zone

A Day in the Life of Tom Cable: Part One

2009-11-18T11:12:59Z

Any resemblance to reality of the below events is purely coincidental.

Monday, 5 a.m., at the Cable household—an alarm goes off...

“Just wake up, baby! Just wake up, baby!” screams the alarm—louder and louder each time. Carol Cable, tired from a long night sleeping next to a restless mate, reaches her hand over and stumbles for the alarm.

In the meantime, after a night of cold sweat and night-terror-filled sleep, Tom Cable grunts and swings his arm to hit the snooze button on an alarm he wishes he had never set.

Tom misses the snooze but does hit his wife’s fumbling hand.

“Ow! My hand! Tom, you hit me! I can’t believe you hit me!” Carol screams in shock.

“Carol, I am so sorry! I was just trying to hit the snooze. Are you OK?” Tom replies, groggy and in shock.

“What do you care? I should have listened to those other women! It’s not my fault your team sucks and you can’t coach!”

“That’s not fair, Carol. Are you in pain? I didn’t mean to hit you; I just wanted to turn this alarm off,” says Tom, still fumbling with the alarm clock.

“I don’t want your excuses. My hand is...” Carol's voice could no longer be heard over the increasing volume of the command, “Just wake up, baby! Just wake up, baby!”

“Carol, I am sorry, but I can’t hear...” says Tom, still trying to silence the alarm. “What is wrong with this devil machine?” Tired and frustrated, Tom rips the alarm out of the wall.

“Just wake up, baby!” The clock runs on batteries too.

By this time, Carol is already throwing his clothes out of the closet. “I can't...you are insa...not going to take this...” Tom can only make out what she is saying in the quick silences between the sentences of the alarm clock.

“Carol, I can’t...damn alarm.” Tom was trying, to no avail, to find the batteries. “You don’t have to do this!” Tom shouts in an attempt to be heard over the alarm. “I love you and I would never want to hurt you. I just wanted to get this alarm to shut up.” At wits end, Tom throws the alarm.

And a mighty throw it is. The alarm sails toward the door, just as the Cable’s housekeeper opens it to see what the commotion was. The alarm bounces off her forehead, sending the alarm and the housekeeper to the ground.

"Oh, Christ," Cable moans.

“...ake...p...baby...!” in pieces, the alarm sputters and quiets down to a stop.

The housekeeper is silent.

“Oh my God! Tom, you are a raging beast!” Carol shouts as she checks the housekeeper’s pulse. Luckily, there is indeed a pulse to check. “Don’t move—I am calling the cops!”

The cops and the ambulance arrive at the same time. After the housekeeper regains consciousness, she tells the police she had opened the door and—bam!—she was struck by the flying, shouting head of Al Davis.

Putting together pieces of stories, the police feel it is all a misunderstanding and let Tom go. Mrs. Cable assures all those in shouting distance that this was not the last they would hear of this matter—to which everyone within shouting distance thought "No duh."

“Well, just another day in paradise...off to the office,” Tom says, grabbing enough things to stay there for a while.

Due to the commotion, Cable is about an hour later than usual. Cable’s secretary Les, a former lineman (he didn’t want to have to worry about accusations of assault on his secretary) greets him. “Hey Tom. Wow, you OK? You look a little out of sorts. Is that a suitcase...? Boss man has already called four times wondering where you were. Good news is the fourth time he actually got your name right. Anyway, he asked you to call him.”

“Can’t wait. I am guessing I got a "Shell" and "Bugel." What was the third name?”

“Kiffin,” Cable’s secretary mumbles, as he did not want to have to tell him that.

“Ugh, this is not good at all,” Cable replies while rubbing his throbbing head and thinking, "I can’t get fired today. I need to sleep here a while."

“What’s with the suitcase?” Les wonders out loud.

“Turn on ESPN—I am sure they’ll let you know,” Cable says, entering his office.

Cable sits down in his commander’s seat and starts polishing his head coach nameplate, thinking this could be the last time it was accurate. After gaining the courage, he dials the boss man.

The phone does not even ring before Al Davis picks up: “Damn it, Shell, this better be you!”

"That’s good," Cable thinks. "At least he didn’t greet me with Kiffin." Cable knew not to correct him on the name. “Al, I am sorry I was late. I had a rough morning, but I am here and ready to work and turn this thing around. We were close yesterday. I thought we had it...”

“Close!” Davis interrupts. “Close is all you are going to get with coaching like that. You need to be more aggressive. Get the ball downfield. Let Heyward run and Russell throw. I want Heyward and Russell on the field every offensive snap. Every other play needs to be a deep throw.”

“Al,” Cable replies, knowing he needed to make his case, as this game plan was the exact opposite of what he wanted to do. “I had to pull Russell. He is not seeing the whole field. He is not making the right reads, and his accuracy has just been terrible. He just doesn’t seem to understand that he needs to put in the work during the week to grasp the game plan...And Heyward can’t catch swine flu.”

“You're the coach. Fix it.” Davis says, growing tired of the excuses and thinking he should just fire this Mike White guy once and for all. But, of course, he knows to wait until he's sure he can do it with out having to pay him. “Why should Russell pay attention to your game plans? They obviously aren’t working. He hasn’t gotten any better this year. I gave you the next Elway and you are turning him into Ryan Leaf.”

“Look,” Davis continues, “I gave you the fastest receiver in the draft—throw it deep to him. If he weren’t so worried about running the sissy patterns that fill your so-called offense, he wouldn’t be tipping balls to the defense.”

“But—” Cable had so many things he wanted to say, but before he can say them, he is interrupted.

“Russell and Heyward play—and if they don’t start improving you can kiss this dream job good-bye. I am not going to continue to look bad because you can’t coach Hall of Fame talent,” Davis says before hanging up with a clang.

“Make you look bad?” Cable thinks, making a scrunched Al Davis face and mouthing words while swaying his head back and forth. “I had more talent at Idaho. If I didn’t need a place to sleep, I’d quit. I can’t coach these guys...”

Cable takes a deep breath, relieved he still had a job. “This kind of negative thinking is not going to help.” Cable presses the intercom button to his secretary. “Les, get me JaDumba—” Cable stops and tells himself “positive thoughts” before continuing, “I mean Russell.”

Realizing he was going to need to talk to more people than Russell, he presses the intercom button again. “Then get Dropsward-Bey and McFumbles, 'cause they are next.” Cable just decides to go with the nicknames; he can start his positive thinking in a minute.

...Stay tuned for A Day in the Life: Part Deux...

Al Davis' Day of Reckoning Has Come:

2009-11-17T02:28:29Z

More photos » by Paul Sakuma - AP

"Hey Mo!" (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)

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On a day when the Oakland Raiders were begining to show the signs of their earlier heritage, the thing that stood out the most was a wide receiver, drafted number 7 over-all, who was selected over numerous more talented AND proven guys by an old man who has lost his mind.

There have been signs all around us, but, when Heyward-Bey let that last pass bounce off of his chest and into the Chief's arms it became clear to me that Al Davis', losing his mind, has really cost this team too much this time.

Instead of keeping the second rounder last year, it was shipped off to Atlanta for 'Angelo Hall. The one who left the "D" somewhere between Atlanta and Oakland.

Wouldn't you just know that DeSean Jackson was available when that pick was made and the Falcons ended up getting a bookend O-Lineman, Sam Baker.

What did the Raiders get? 8 Million dollars of NOTHING but Burnt Toast that smelled like the "Scrip Club" while the Falcons and Eagles have "Landed", pardon the pun, Huge pieces to their franchises.

Then, this season the Raiders drafted the laughing stock rookie wide-out of All-Time, and that was before he'd even attempted to catch a pass in the OTA's...He's gotten worse.

I mean, before the season started, you still had hope that MAYBE the Old Man had outfoxed the entire League by finding the next Cliff Branch and Jack Tatum. Perhaps the old man had one more one finger salute for the "Liars" and was two fisting the "Professional Liars"!

Now, all we see is a franchise being run into the ground with the same gusto with which it became a symbol of the NFL.

When you get the chance to draft the Michael Crabtree, Jeremy Macklin or Percy Harvin's of the World, you do not take a project with hands of stone. You just don't. THEN, when you realize he can't catch, at the very least, you let a veteran, like ummm, I don't know...Javon Walker maybe!?!?...step in until the kid calms down a bit.

That is unless you just really DON'T see it. And at this point, I don't think that Mr. Davis does see reality any more. I bet, after hearing him speak, that he is still wondering WHY Cliff Branch missed that last pass.

I have often wrote, "Today is the DAY", before Raider games, and for me, yesterday was the day that I lost faith in AL's ability to run things. I'd questioned it, and have been in doubt about it for a while. Now I KNOW, it is time to get someone in here to run things. It has to be someone that Al trusts and it has to be soon, otherwise his great legacy will be forever tarnished.

Yesterday was a day of reckoning for you Mr. Davis. You have either lost your touch or have lost touch with reality. You choose.

Raiders Future QB Options

2009-11-17T01:38:09Z

Well it seems more and more that Gradkowski might be starting next week. Russell got benched again and Gradkowski came in and led us on what would have been a game-winning 2:00 minute drill if only DHB didn't create an interception on a pass he should have caught in the red zone.

If Gradkowski is starting, you know Cable wouldn't be doing it unless..........Davis might be wanting him to? If Al didn't want Grad starting, you bet that he'd make sure it didn't happen. Could Al finally be seeing that Russell isn't the future of this team? It's clear from the post-game interview with Gradkowski that he already is a better leader and is definitely a better QB.

So what of QB options after this season? Next year is uncapped after all so Russell can be cut without cap ramifications leaving Davis plenty of dollars to throw at a newer shinier QB. I've done a post on this before yes, but let's take a look at some other QB choices.

Colt McCoy

via nbcsportsmedia1.msnbc.com

The Texas Torpedo, the guy I've always wanted. But now my want for him is steadily declining as this college season has gone on. Though Al may be wanting him more and more.

Fleet-footed, tough runner, rocket-launcher arm, everything Al loves. Accurate, great leadership, tremendously hard worker, everything Russell doesn't have. So why am I not wanting him quite as much?

Well from extensively watching Texas, he has a tough time getting going. Slow starts to games and usually games versus the likes of Baylor, Central Florida, and the like. Not exactly great competition to help you prepare for the NFL game. But if anyone can properly prepare, it's Colt. Unlike Russell, he actually works towards success.

He also makes some bad reads, but he'd be willing to actually work and cooperate with the great QB coaching staff Oakland has. McCoy reminds me a lot of a Joe Flacco except more mobile and a faster developer.

Jason Campbell/Bruce Gradkowski

via www.tailgate365.com

via www3.pictures.zimbio.com

I'm very interested to see how Gradkowski fares as a starter. From what we've seen in limited action, he appears to have really gotten some accuracy issues worked out during the offseason and is clearly capable of leading us downfield. If he can do this as a starter, then I have a plan to propose.

Keep Gradkowski through the offseason

Bring in Jason Campbell as a free agent

Have the two compete for the starting spot

Campbell has good mobility, good arm strength, and once again has a good work ethic. Accuracy and good reads are definitely spotty, but much better than Russell.

And competition only makes you better, this is especially true with QB's. Whoever gets the starting spot would have definitely earned it instead of the fake competition in camp this year between Russell and Garcia/Gradkowski.

Plus this plan allows us to use all our draft picks towards improving the team to help the QB more.

Ryan Mallett

via friendsoftheprogram.files.wordpress.com

Several people have mentioned Ryan Mallett, though I'm against this option.

Russell-esque arm strength, good speed, but he's also very inaccurate and makes some bad decisions. I don't really know much about him, but from what I've watched of him it doesn't look good. For a team looking for a down-the-road replacement QB option, then here's your perfect long-term project. But the Raiders need immediate success and a game manager. Mallett doesn't fit that mold.

Though I could see Davis drafting him.

Sam Bradford

via 2.bp.blogspot.com

Another move I'm against, but one I could live with.

Minus a bad injury to start this season and Bradford has done everything very well. Amazing completion percentages, nice deep ball, decent mobility especially in the pocket, and once again a hard worker. All this with average receiver talent, a great TE, and good running back checkdown options.

Sounds like he's been playing for the Raiders all along.

He's very young and is already playing at the level of Colt McCoy; translation: immediate success with a high developmental ceiling. Lack of experience could be an issue, but he's got the skill set for success and the mentality to keep getting better. Davis should be drooling over this guy.

Tim Tebow

via thewholegardenwillbow.files.wordpress.com

God save us if we draft Tim Tebow. Aka, Vince Young 2.0 (and not the Vince Young we're seeing now)

The only reason this could be good is that he can run and thus avoid pressure. But he runs way too much. It's his first instinct and intention on every play. Now who else was like that?

Michael Vick

Vince Young

Personally I don't what a guy who's only really good at running on our team. He makes some bad reads and really bad throws and is very lucky that he has talent at Florida to make up for it.

Other draft possibilities that I'm just too much against to go into detail about:

Ricky Stanzi- interception prone
Jake Locker- very inconsistent on a weekly basis, not overly impressive
Jimmy Clausen- I'm an ND fan but he's only good because of the insane amount of weapons he has
Jevan Sneed- see Jake Locker, though I like his mobility and leadership

A draft stocked with QB's and a good free agent prospect in Jason Campbell, and even possibly the game manager we need in Gradkowski already on the team. Which would be your choice?

Oakland Raiders Postgame Recap: Chiefs 16, Raiders 10

2009-11-16T01:10:49Z

For the 99th time, the two bitter rivals squared off. [via image3.examiner.com]

Completing the season series were the Raiders and the Chiefs from Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Oakland had won the earlier meeting at Arrowhead Stadium, but this time around, it was Kansas City emerging as the victor. It was the seventh straight time the Chiefs had beaten the Raiders in Oakland and the 52nd overall time that it had happened in now what has been the 99th meeting. Blacked out locally, I was forced to watch this game on a stream. Let's see how this one transpired.

Raiders running back Michael Bush finished with 119 yards on just 14 carries. [via a.espncdn.com]

The Raiders started with the ball first and didn't wait around. Michael Bush's 60-yard run set up a Justin Fargas touchdown, putting the Raiders up 7-0 just four plays into the game. The Chiefs, on the very next drive, turned the ball over. It was their first of three turnovers as Matt Cassel was picked off by Chris Johnson. Some punts later, the Chiefs were on the board thanks to a 50-yard field from Ryan Succop. The slow-moving first quarter next saw Sebastian Janikowski connect from 50 yards out as well, and the Raiders maintained a 10-3 lead. That was all the scoring the Raiders would get.

Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles had a career-high 103 yards. [via a.espncdn.com]

The Chiefs were faced with a fourth down at the Oakland 44 and decided to go for it. Instead of a first down, they earned something better. For the first time this season, the Chiefs scored a rushing touchdown. A 44-yard score by Charles tied the game up. The Raiders followed up by punting four more times in the quarter with all four "drives" resulting in four plays run or less. Kansas City tacked on a field goal before halftime down the line in the quarter, and the Raiders trailed 13-10 at the break. The Chiefs' top playmaker, Dwayne Bowe, had 91 yards receiving on the day and had 48 of those in the second quarter. He even drew a pass interference penalty in this quarter on Chris Johnson. Not-so-fun fact: Oakland had lost 18 straight games in which they trailed going into the half.

Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell was finally benched after another porous effort. [via a.espncdn.com]

There wasn't much action in the third quarter, but there were certainly some headlines. JaMarcus Russell was finally benched after going 9-for-24 with 67 yards. A fair share of drops and bad passes contributed to the usually-low completion percentage. Both teams missed field goals and failed to score points in the third quarter. Oakland could not capitalize on a pair of Kansas City turnovers in the quarter. Oakland managed just three points off of three turnovers in the game overall.

The man Chiefs fans love to hate, safety Mike Brown, finally gave them a reason to smile. [via a.espncdn.com]

The Chiefs added a field goal early on in the fourth quarter to give them a 16-10 cushion. Despite the change at quarterback, offensive ineptitude continued for the men in silver and black. They were still, however, in a position to win the game late. Bruce Gradkowski tried to engineer a game-winning drive. After hitting Chaz Schilens and Johnnie Lee Higgins, the Raiders were in pretty decent position to put something together; however, mysterious play-calling and clock management led to the downfall late. Still, a 22-yard pass to Darrius Heyward-Bey -- surprisingly held up by replay -- had the Raiders in business. On the next play, though, a pass intended for Heyward-Bey was picked off by Mike Brown to seal the game.

Will JaMarcus Russell be under center again despite being benched today? [via a.espncdn.com]

A couple of thoughts are in my head after that game. First, it's nice having Chaz Schilens back. He led the team in receiving with 41 yards off of four receptions. Still, the drops are a problem for not only wide receivers but for everyone. Some screens should have been caught by Darren McFadden and Justin Fargas, but they were dropped instead. Secondly, the ground game was really good once again. Bush and Fargas combined for 160 yards on 24 carries. Despite McFadden returning, he had only 11 yards on just four carries. It leads me to question how valuable he is to this offense. Bush clearly looks superior on the ground and should get the bulk of the carries moving forward. Lastly, with an inept passing attack, we still have a very good tight end in Zach Miller. He was virtually non-existent in today's game with just one single catch for nine yards. We saw a little bit too much of Tony Stewart and Brandon Myers and not enough of our top weapon in the aerial aspect of the game.

Next week, these Kansas City Chiefs (2-7) will be hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3). The Oakland Raiders, now at an abysmal 2-7, will be playing at home again and taking on the shocking 7-2 Cincinnati Bengals at 1:15 p.m. Pacific. It's sure to be another blackout.

Poll

Weekly Recap Poll: Who was the Oakland Raiders player of the game?

2nd Half Game Thread - Chiefs @ Raiders

2009-11-15T23:05:14Z

Chiefs up 13 - 10 at the half. The Raiders are going to wear out Lechler's leg before this one is over, unless they find a way to create some offense. If they can continue to keep this close, Jano can win this from about anywhere!!

Lets GO R-A-I-D-E-R-S!!!!!

Oakland Raiders Game Thread: 11-15-09: This Time, Just Get The Three Points Tom!

2009-11-15T18:27:49Z

More photos » by Ed Zurga - AP

This is what Cable SHOULD have had Seabass do last year, at home, against the Chiefs(AP Photo/Ed Zurga)

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I am not sure if there is a Raider fan on the planet that can forget the "Pitch to the Polish Sausage" on 4th and forever that doomed the Raider's chances of beating the Chiefs in Oakland last season. I could not stop saying, "What the (Insert Expletive)!", over and over when I left that game. It may be the worst call in sports history. Not the BIGGEST worst call, Like Barry Switzer going for it on 4th Down and killing the Cowboys, but just straight up play calling Tom-Foolery that ended in disaster.

Like Raider Way has pointed out, there will be NO excuses this week. NONE!

Chaz, McFadden, Green and GALLERY will be back, so the INJURY excuse will be GONE!!!

We are playing a Division Rival, so the intensity should be there.

We have had two weeks to game plan for them.

My keys to this game will be the health of the four players that I just mentioned and the ability fo our defense to force turnovers. We will need to win the turnover battel in order to win this game. Period!!!

This is the first home game I'm missing as the family and I are in Disneyland, and man do I miss Chewbacca's grilling and all of the Tom-Foolery in the parking lot, but, this really is the happiest place on Earth, even in a Depression. So, if any of you make it to the Fox Sports Bar and Grill in the Disney Village, that is where I'll be.

Can I get an "OOOAAAKKLLLAAANNDDDD!!!!!"

Then A "RRAAAAIIDDDEERRSS!!!!"

Let's Open up a CAN of Whompum!! On these Fake Chiefs!!!

The Season starts TODAY!!!!

RRRAAAIIDDDEERRSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oakland Raiders Football:Pre-Game Thread Week 10

2009-11-14T11:51:26Z

More photos » by Chris Park - AP

Oakland Raiders head coach Tom Cable pondering whether he will be going to anger management, the unemployment line or both. What he should be pondering, is his play calling and finding someone else to do it. (AP Photo/Chris Park)

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Kansas City at Oakland

Regular Season Week 10

Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland Raiders

Where: Oakland Coliseum

When: 1:05 p.m. PDT

2009 Records: Chiefs (1-7), Raiders (2-6)

History: Kansas City holds a 51-45-2 lead

Head Coaches: Tom Cable (Raiders) and Todd Haley (Chiefs)

Raiders Radio: Listen live on KSFO 560 AM

Television: CBS, Blacked out locally

Line: Raiders by 2 points

SB Nation Chiefs vs Raiders Preview here

The Raiders have now had their mid-season bye-week and now it's time for all of us to get back to some football, Raider football that is, and I hope the Raiders will play "Raider Football".

During the first part of their bye-week, the Raiders were said to be concentrating on the things that had gone wrong during the season's first 8 games. Tom Cable has also stated that injuries to four key offensive players has played a roll in the offense performing way below expectations. Well, those four players, namely Robert Gallery, Cornell Green, Darren McFadden and Chaz Schilins are all healthy enough to play this Sunday against the Chiefs.

I don't know really how much improvement they are going to get with the return of Cornell Green, except that there will be more false start penalties, but to be sure, the return of Gallery to the O-line will be significant. In their last meeting with the Chiefs, McFadden was unable to find any room to run until the game winning TD run. Coincidentally, Gallery was out of that game and now will be the time to see if that was all that McFadden was missing. No excuses for McFadden, he needs to show NOW, why he was the number 4 overall pick in the 2008 draft.

Chaz Schilins, with the 4 week injury that turned into a 10 week injury, is finally set to make his first appearance on the field for the Silver & Black. Schilins, who only caught 15 passes last season, has shown great potential because of his size and speed. He supposedly has a great rapport with JaMarcus Russell and that needs to show up this Sunday against the Chiefs. Russell needs to find his wide receivers and show that he has made strides resulting from the bye-week practices... NO EXCUSES.

The excuses from Cable are over and now it is time to start the 2nd half of the season with a victory against the Chiefs. Since the Raiders barely beat the Chiefs in their last meeting at Arrowhead, where the Chiefs thoroughly outplayed the Raiders statistically, this game Sunday is where we need to see that the Raiders made good work of the bye-week. There may not be any playoffs for this team this season, but they have to beat the Chiefs this Sunday. No excuses...NO EXCUSES, Period.

For the Chiefs, Jamal Charles has officially taken over for Larry Johnson in the Chiefs' backfield after Johnson was cut earlier this week. Charles has run 10 times in his last two games for a total of 69 yards, but is still looking for his first career rushing TD. This will be a good time for the Raiders run defense to show that they have made the strides from the bye-week practices and shutdown the Chiefs running game so that they can force the pass. Then they can unleash their pass rush from the defensive line to get to Cassel. The raiders defensive line may or may not have defensive end Greg Ellis available, but that's o.k., because rookie Matt Shaughnessy is ready and very capable of starting in his stead. Look for the Chiefs to crowd the box with extra defenders as the Raiders average only 25 passes a game, the fewest in the NFL. Russell struggles when he has to read the whole field and is pressured, so the Raiders want to run the ball early and often. Expect Kansas City to do everything possible to make the Raiders one-dimensional by taking away their strength, the ground game.

The Raiders will also have to protect the ball well, as when they play the Chiefs, there always seems to be a game changing turnover to kill the Raiders path to victory. The other key will for the Raiders will be to get out to an early lead in order to maintain confidence with the team, especially the defense, which gets demoralized easily when the offense is inept and puts the defense in a bad position.

Prediction: Raiders 23 Chiefs 16

What are your keys to the game and are you expecting the bye-week and the returning previously injured offensive players to have an immediate impact?

Poll

Very simply put. Do you believe the Raiders will defeat the Chiefs this Sunday at the Coliseum?

Yes

240 votes

No

74 votes

314 votes | Poll has closed

The Start Of The Second Season

2009-11-14T11:47:51Z

After a long wait and what seemed like an insufferably long preseason the start of the ’09 NFL season is here. The eve of the season is always an exciting time for teams and their fans. Finally, there will be answers to the questions that have been percolating and building all off-season.

The Raiders and their Nation are no exception to this. While not many people carry the expectations of playoffs for this young squad, many are hoping for signs of improvement. Signs that this team is starting to get it, starting to form an identity and that some of its young players are ready to turn that talent into results.

What…what’s that you say? This is week 10? That wasn’t the preseason? Well, crap…. Did the Raiders know this? I could’ve sworn watching their games that this was the preseason.

Well, my patient readers, new and shocking information has come into light—it is now evident that the season has already begun. Not only has the season already begun, but apparently the Raiders are falling somewhere below the line of excellence to which they are famously committed to.

Luckily for this article the second paragraph still applies.

The playoffs are not a realistic hope for this team, but signs of improvement are. At this point, for the few of us left in Raider Nation, signs of improvement seem deserved—a right that should be guaranteed after prolonged suffering.

Maybe it is the suffering that has created my delusional optimism, but I have actually led myself to conclude that that the answers we have received so far have been a product of extenuating circumstances and the true answers are about to be revealed in the start of this new season.

That’s right, I am marking the bye week as the end of a season and this week as the start of a new one. For not only has the bye week fallen directly at the mid-point, but it also sees the return of four offensive starters—starters that have thus far had little or no playing time yet this season.

These players are returning to an offense that can use whatever boost it could get. Let’s take a look at the numbers for the first half of the season.

Um…on second thought, that is a horrible idea. That is just an exercise in depression. Let me save whatever peace of mind and sobriety you have by saying: all numbers point to this offense being bad—no wait not bad, really bad…. Wait, that isn’t true either—they are historically, epically, sickeningly, Striesandly horrible.

Enough living in the past! This is the dawn of a new season and we are all starving for some positive signs.

Let’s take a look at the players with the biggest question marks and what they could show fans to fill them with some sense of hope.

JaMarcus Russell:

Coming into the season Russell was the player with the most eyes straining on him for answers. Russell has answered those questions as emphatically as anyone could.

However, they have been the wrong answers—like not even in the same ballpark answers, or “did you hear the question right?” answers, or “do you speak English?” answers. Remember kids; there are no stupid questions, only really bad quarterbacks who get asked them.

That being said, this is a fresh start and Russell has had enough question marks around him that this new season can be a chance at redemption—a retake of the test he failed horribly and forgot to study for.

For any hope in Russell’s future to be restored he needs to have a decent second half. A completion percentage above 55, around as many touchdowns as interceptions and fewer plays where he just looks like he has no clue what is going on. It would also help if there were more reports of him putting in extra time.

In Russell’s defense, it is possible that he is working with the worst receiving corps in the history of this league. His numbers throwing to players that are not wide receivers (72 for 119, 752 yards, 1 touchdown and 4interceptions) are decent.

The one receiver that seemed to be turning into a playmaker, dependable route runner and catcher of the football is about to make his season debut:

Chaz Schilens:

Schilens has endured a longer than expected rehab from a broken foot suffered early in the preseason—a preseason and training camp that had all onlookers predicting a break out year for him. It is hard to put a value on what his absence has meant to this team.

For Schilens, his goal for the second half of the season is simple: stay healthy. If he does I have no doubt he will showcase the talents that could someday make him a pro bowl player. This will also help take the pressure off of the rookie receivers.

Louis Murphy:

After a strong start, Louis Murphy has tapered off dramatically. The last four games Murphy has caught only one pass from Russell, in defense of Murphy’s play making ability that reception did gain six feet. That big play was not his only highlight of the last four games. He did have the unforgettable moment of colliding with Johnnie Lee Higgins and falling over.

Murphy’s goals need to be: no more drops, improved route running, consistency and it would be nice to see at least one more clutch meaningful play from him this season.

Darrius Heyward-Bey:

Unlike Murphy, Heyward-Bey has not seen any drop off in his production. He has been a rock of consistency. Unfortunately, his contributions have been consistently unapparent.

For Heyward-Bey, his goal for the second half could happen at any moment and that is: have one play that lends some reason to get excited about you. That’s it—just one play. Something for us to hang our hopes on; something that says, “Yes, I am indeed a raw project and not a bust.” Let that speed come out and play.

Johnnie Lee Higgins:

Higgins goal for the second half is to remember that he is indeed still a football player.

The problems of the passing game have been even more damaging this year due to the fading of the run game. Like the passing game there are enough excuses that I am viewing the second half of the season as a fresh start for them as well.

Offensive Line:

The success of the running game depends on the offensive line. If there is any hope for this group of lineman than the second half needs to see them show more consistency and the ability to take over games against the weaker opponents.

The Chiefs game will be the first game all season that the line will appear as head coach Tom Cable envisioned it in training camp. The play up front has been so erratic that I am giving Justin Fargas and Michael Bush a free pass and I assume they will take advantage of the holes they are given. The same cannot be said for their cohort:

Darren McFadden:

Out of this group no one is feeling the pressure like McFadden. Running backs have short NFL careers and tend to experience success much earlier than player at other skill positions.

If McFadden is ever going to justify his draft slot or salary he is going to have to show it in the second half of this season. Since he will likely be sharing the load the second half, his goal will not be about sheer numbers for him, but rather quality touches.

He needs to stop fumbling. Let’s see if he can get through the second half of the season with two or fewer fumbles. He also needs to catch the ball whenever he gets a hand on it. If he is going to fulfill his potential he needs to be great in the passing game.

Limit the number of plays he is stopped for a loss with something less than a wrap-up tackle.

He also needs to have at least two plays where he creates something special on his own—something that has that “wow” factor.

Of course, he cannot do any of this if he is not healthy. He needs to run hard for eight straight games for anyone to believe he can be a star in this league.

Compared to the offense, the defense has been a model of good health. While they have shown flashes of brilliance they have also shown flashes of amazingly spotty and head scratching bad play.

While there is less to wonder about on the defensive side of the ball, they are not without their own question marks.

Matt Shaughnessy:

Shaughnessy had a monster game before the bye. With Ellis battling age and injuries Shaughnessy is be going to given plenty of snaps in the second half of the season. If he can maintain a level of play anywhere near his last game he will be the gem of this draft class.

Trevor Scott:

Scott has shown flashes (especially in the Philidelphia game). If the Raiders can manage to force teams into passing situations Scott needs to display his pass rushing talent.

Tommy Kelley:

Plain and simple: Kelley needs to be more consistent. He no longer has the excuse of having to face continual double teams. Bring it every week.

Kirk Morrison:

At linebacker it has become obvious that Kirk Morrison is not what this team needs in the middle. While he leads the team in tackles at some point the middle linebacker has to take some of the blame for being the heart and soul of a rush defense that is continually near the bottom of the league.

As the quarterback of a defense there are far too many lapses and blown coverages for him to warrant resigning at this point. Maybe this is too much to pin on him, but at the very least he needs to have a second half of the season where oppositions running backs do not routinely blow into the secondary untouched.

Mike Mitchell:

It will be hard for Mitchell to show much in the second half, as his play will likely be limited to special teams and goal line situations.

In the second half, his main goal needs to be staying healthy. His introduction to the NFL has been slowed by hamstring injuries. He is too young for this to be a problem and any more injuries this year and he will have some bright red flags flying over his head.

Beyond that it would be nice to see one big hit out of him this year—the kind of hit that everyone remembers, except for the recipient of the hit. Announce your presence to the NFL via a large can of whoop-ass Mr. Mitchell.

Chris Johnson:

Chris Johnson has watched his man catch way too many passes without being in touching distance. He is looking like a guy that should be a nickel corner on a good team. He needs to have a much better second half for me not to be asking for an acquisition that relegates him to a backup role.

Almost every Raider has significant questions hanging over their head in the second season. I guess now would be a good time to mention the few that don’t.

Keep up the good work awards:

Nnamdi Asomugha, Tyvon Branch, Zach Miller, Michael Huff, Mario Henderson, Thomas Howard, Richard Seymour and Des Bryant (every play you make is one more than an undrafted free agent is supposed to).

I think there is one area of the Raiders that deserves special mention.

The highlight of the first half of the season is without a doubt the kickers. I think it is reasonable to say that it is the finest half of season any team has ever received from it’s kickers.

Shane Lechler is on pace to break the yards per punt average record. He also has 14 punts inside the 20 vs. only four touchbacks.

Sebastian Janikowski is perfect and not only is he perfect, but probably would still be if they used arena league sized uprights. He is also enjoying his highest touchback percentage on kickoffs. Now if he could just get more kickoffs!

Also, I would be remiss if I did not mention Head Coach Tom Cable, who is having one hell of a unique first half. I can’t think of any questions hanging over his head—maybe something will slap me in the face later but until then…the dude abides.

Poll

Which player will have the biggest improvements in the second half?

What's After Al Davis?

2009-11-12T22:43:39Z

There are many in the Raider Nation calling on Al Davis to sell the team, or at least step aside. There even appeared to be a movement to dethrone the Emperor of the Raiders. There are some who feel that anyone would be preferable to Al, but there is also the saying about the devil you know being better than the devil you don't know.

Al Davis is 80 years old, and it appears that his health is not what it once was. He missed his first game since 1979 when he did not make the trip to Tampa Bay last year for the final game of the season due to a knee injury. He moves with the aid of a walker. Those around him say that he is still sharp as ever, even though he seems less coherent in each of his public appearances. The time is nearing when Davis will no longer be in control of the Raiders, whether by his choice or by his no longer being of this Earth.

From his arrival in 1963, he has become not only the face of the Raiders, but also their heart and soul. He changed the color scheme from the black, white, and gold to the now ubiquitous Silver and Black because he wanted them to have a tougher image. It is his renegade spirit and desire for domination that became the essence of the Raider mystique. There is no other sporting franchise that is so intertwined with its owner. Al Davis and the Raiders are synonymous, and he would have it no other way.

Davis is the last of a dying breed. Unlike any other currently in the NFL, he worked his way up from being an assistant coach, to head coach, to league commissioner to part owner of the team. Granted, he wrestled full ownership away from the other general partners through trickery, but that does not change that he is a football man first. No other owner in the NFL has the football pedigree that Davis built for himself.

Once Al steps aside from the Raiders, there will no longer be a voice in the league that roamed the sidelines. There will no longer be a voice that spent a lifetime dedicated to football. True, Davis has made many mistakes along the way. And even more enemies with his "us against the world" mentality. But, it was that very "us against the world" mentality that was once instilled upon his team that dominated the league.

The word from Alameda is that once Davis either passes away or steps aside the team will go to his son Mark. Until recently, Mark Davis has been out of sight. He was not seen at his dad's side learning the trade of running a football team. There is also the question of whether Mark would be able to keep the team. When Jack Kent Cooke passed away, his children had to sell the team because they could not pay the inheritance tax associated with the value of the Washington Redskins. Even if Mark does keep the team, does he have the same passion for football that Al has? Does Mark have the desire to keep the traditions of the Raiders alive, the very thing that makes the Raiders unlike the other 31 teams? Does he even want to run the team, or does he want to sell it off?

If the Raiders get just another billionaire running the team, will they respect what the Raiders are truly about? It is unlikely that any future owner could have the same passion for the team as Davis. The Raiders could easily be bought by an ownership group that favors the old Bidwell model, which is to make the money through revenue sharing and spend as little as possible because even a losing team is profitable in the NFL. The new ownership group could also want to change the colors and uniforms to attempt to spur sales of new Raiders gear, without respecting the traditions that go along with the Silver and Black.

Davis was a pioneer in the NFL, and it is obvious to all that he needs to bring in help to run the team. His decisions are not what they used to be. If he can bring in some young minds to help him, he can get them ready to take over for him when the inevitable happens. However, when it happens, that doesn't automatically mean things will change for the better for the Raiders as some believe. Davis has made the Raiders his life's work, and he has to be more disappointed than anyone else over the team's current state. God Bless Al Davis and let him go down as the greatest Raider to ever live. And everyone who is hoping for him to die, you all need to shut the hell up. When he does pass it will be a sad sad day in Raider Nation.

Catching Up With The Raiders: Raider History Revealed

2009-11-12T06:15:51Z

When I thought of the questions that I posed in Yesterday's Segment, Oakland Raider Trivia, I was struggling to think of question that were pertinent and gave me hope. I didn't know the answers to 4 of the questions, but I wanted to know, and tonight I will know.

Here are the answers:

1) Which team loaned the Raiders 400k in order to continue playing football? What was the owner's name?

That team was the Buffalo Bills. Ralph Wilson was the means to this end. Without Upstate New York, there would be NO Oakland Raiders. And to think that without without Marshawn Lynch and Langston Walker there would be NO...Well...On Second Thought...Nevermind!

2) What is the Current Value of the team?

In 2008, the Oakland Raiders were valued at $861 Million Dollars. In 2009, their value has fallen to $797 Million. That is not bad, especially considering that the team was bought for 180k by Al Davis in 1966!

3) Who is the Raider Fanchise Leader in Tackles? Sacks?

This question is more of an "Opinion Section". Tackles were not counted as an official stat in the NFL until 2001, so Tatum is my choice..Followed by Stuart Schweigert.

As for the sacks, they weren't official until 1982, there is no way to say who the Raider leader really is. I mean how many times did our defensive line, linebackers or defensive backs get the opposing QB behind the line of scrimmage before there was a stat for it?

I'd have to say Sean Jones, but I am probably WAY off.

4) Who played the most seasons in an Oakland Raider Uniform?

Jim Otto played in the silver and black for 15 years. From 1960-1974, he was the backbone of the team, and to this day is Mr. Raider. I've had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Otto, and he is class...pure class.

5) How many Raiders have won the NFL MVP while playing for the organization? Names?

The answer is 3, and, none of them repeated.

Kenny Stabler was the first Silver and Black MVP in 1974.

Marcus Allen stepped up in LA 11 Sseasons later, in 1985 and won the MVP.

Rich Gannon picked up the hardware in 2002.

So, there is some history, I feel much better now. Just being able to throw around the names of past and bask in past glory makes me proud to be a Raider fan and it is good to have this new knowledge.

Go RAIDERS!!!!

Catching Up With the Raiders: Some Raider Trivia

2009-11-10T19:48:08Z

Today, I decided to re-open an old idea, which is to have a trivia segment where you can answer the question, off the top of your head (No Google-Cheating), and then get the answers the next day.

1) Which team loaned the Raiders 400k in order to continue playing football? What was the owner's name?

2) What is the Current Value of the team?

3) Who is the Raider Fanchise Leader in Tackles? Sacks?

4) Who played the most seasons in an Oakland Raider Uniform?

5) How many Raiders have won the NFL MVP while playing for the organization? Names?

Saturday Morning Thought: Is The Oakland Raider Offense Aw-fence-ive or Uh-fence-ive?

2009-11-07T18:57:45Z

I was starting to write the second piece of the Aw-fence-ive First Half Break Down, when my mind began to be amused by the duality of the word that is spelled "O-F-F-E-N-S-I-V-E", so I turned to Dictionary.com for a closer look as the break down of the word.

Here is what I found:

The root of the word, "Offensive", begins with the Latin Word for "Us", Offens, then goes into the Latin word for "To Strike Against or Displease" and then wraps up with the common "ive", or showing characteristics of being.

As it relates to our football team, I would have to say that, the word, aw-fensive, would be either, a team striking against another with the ball in our hands as a unit and showing those characteristics by consistently executing a game plan with success.

I don't think that the 2009 Raiders, on the surface, with zero regard to actual stats, are anywhere near resembling that definition.

Mentally, the leader of the unit, JaMarcus Russell has said that it is not his fault. He has failed to take his lumps with his squad and also failed to realize that without the "us" in the word, there is no "offens", only an "ive". Therefor they have no chance of being Aw-fensive.

No, the form of the word that this squad has resembled is the Us-Displease-Ive.

Consistently, this team has been booed by the displeased patrons at the Coliseum. From the play calling to the execution the entire way through the play, the uh-fensive side of the ball has been unpleasant and disagreeable to the senses (Another definition of the word).

Taking the O-Line out of it, let's see which of our Aw-fensive skill positions players stack up:

Aw-Fensive

Zach Miller, Justin Fargas, Michael Bush, Louis Murphy (Maybe, because he drops too many balls)

Uh-Fensive

Darren McFadden (Always being hurt is unpleasant to my senses), Darrius Heyward-Bey, Johnnie Lee Higgins, Todd Wadtkins, JaMarcus Russell

As a unit, this crew is so Uh-fensive that, they rank at or near the bottom in every Aw-fensive Category. So, Raider fans there is nowhere to go but UP and I really feel that by just trying to STRIKE AGAINST others, as a team, would be a HUGE step in the right direction, because, even if the numbers still lag, we couls at least call them Aw-fensive and be grammatically correct, which is one heckuva step in the right direction.

Raiders vs. B-Y-E: An Epic Battle For The Ages

2009-11-07T10:03:44Z

It is finally here! The week all Raiders fans await like Christmas. The week which, upon its unveiling, is eagerly circled with pen breaking vigor on all calendars.

In a schedule filled with bitter rivals and compelling match-ups, this week takes a back seat to none. That’s right, this is the week the Raiders face those dreaded, measly, cheap-shot-artist punks: B-Y-E.

With the Raiders offensive ineptness, this looks to be one of the most compelling match-ups in the history of this famed series—a series burnt into our psyche since 1990.

Since its inception, this has been as one-sided and even a battle the game has ever known. The Raiders have never beaten B-Y-E yet they have never lost. If that is not the definition of compelling, I don’t know what is.

With that little morsel of goodness for your expectant baby bird mouths, let’s take a look at what we can expect.

Match-ups:

Raiders Offense vs. B-Y-E Defense

This is a marvelous opportunity for the Raiders to get the aforementioned inept offense going. B-Y-E’s cover zero defense leaves them vulnerable all over the field.

On plays in which the Raiders receivers manage not to tackle each other, JaMarcus Russell should have open targets to target. But can he hit them? And when he does, can they catch it?

With all of these question marks in the passing game, the Raiders would be best served to stick to the running game. The Raiders patchwork offensive line is getting healthy and is about to be not so patchwork. But will it matter? Damn, more question marks!

B-Y-E is likely to use their patented zero in the box strategy—this means the offensive line will only have to concentrate on not running into each other or tackling their own ball carriers (like this guy). Execution will be the name of the game here—unfortunately this is not a strong point of the Raiders offense.

B-Y-E Offense vs. Raiders Defense

I literally see no way in which B-Y-E will be able to move the ball against the Raiders, however, the Raiders have surprised me before. They posses an uncanny ability to completely blow even the most simple of coverages and assignments.

B-Y-E needs to run early and often against this beleaguered rush defense. When they do pass, they would be wise to throw it toward Chris Johnson or Stanford Routt, who will be doing their best to pass interfere the air.

B-Y-E’s receivers literally have no hands and will likely not be able to catch the ball. They do, however, stand a great chance at drawing a pass interference call or eight on the Raiders DBs. Some of the calls will be questionable, but the refs will bring up some arcane never-before-heard-of rule to justify them.

Prediction:

All signs point to this is being a tight game.

B-Y-E, despite not having any players on the field, is going to find a way to exploit one of the Raiders blown coverages for a big play touchdown.

B-Y-E will also receive two points from a safety. The safety will come after the Raiders struggling kick return team fails to advance the ball past the two on the opening kickoff.

Despite the horrible field position Tom Cable is going to call for a deep pass. At the snap of the ball every single Raider, having forgot the play, is going to run into each other and fall down, except for Russell. Russell, overwhelmed with confusion, will simply run out of the back of the endzone in an attempt to hide behind the field goal post and mutter to himself “It’s not my fault—it’s not my fault.”

B-Y-E: 9

The Raiders are going to enjoy decent success moving the ball, but the return of Cornell Green to the lineup will mean the return of those crucial drive-killing penalties. Although the Raiders will continually move the ball into the redzone they will have to settle for field goals.

This will setup a dramatic finish. With the score knotted at nine, the Raiders will win this on a last second drop kick field goal by all world kicker Shane Lechler.

Lechler will attempt the drop kick after injuries force him into action. The injuries will occur when the B-Y-E coach calls a time out right before the Raiders other all world kicker, Sebastian Janikowski, can get his game winning attempt off.

The only player on the field to hear the whistle will be the holder. Upon hearing the whistle he will lean over to stand up, which tragically places his head right in the otherworldly powerful arc of Janikowski’s foot. Unable to stop, Janikowski will kick his holder in the head—causing it to detach from his body and send it tumbling through the exact midpoint of the uprights.

Unfortunately, this breaks Janikowski’s foot, rendering him unable to attempt the field goal. The holder, unable to get his head reattached in time, is unavailable for the next play—forcing Lechler to attempt the historic drop kick.

Raiders 12

As always, let's see your predictions in the comments below.

Oakland Raiders Offensive Update: The Receiving Core

2009-11-06T15:20:27Z

With the Bye Week upon us, I think we should take this time to reflect on the first half.Of course, with a 2-6 record there will be much to look at on the disappointing side, but, there will be a few things that we can look at on the positive side. Unfortunately NONE of those will be on the offensive side of the ball.

Regardless of what the players on the scoring side of the ball say, (Darrius Heyward-Bey from the CC Times, "I've been very solid") they have stunk, and they have stunk regularly.

As I pointed out last week, and many local columnists have also since, they are at a "Bed and Breakfast level" of scoring.

Coming into last week, they reached the Red Zone the least amount of any team in football, 9 times, 9 MEASLY times. That is two games worth for most, decent offenses, so that should put their futility into some perspective. They aren't even giving themselves a chance to score, thus, they only lead the hapless St. Louis Rams (9.6) in scoring and are tied with Cleveland at 9.8 points per game.

So, how have they arrived here? Let's start with the most glaring weakness, the receivers.

First off, they are starting two rookies that THINK they are World Beaters. I mean, just reference the DHB line above and then listen to Murphy talk about how, "They are a GREAT team", and you'll soon get the picture. In all fairness to the squad, the three receivers with the best hands have not found their ways onto the field yet this year.

Chaz and Miller should be back soon and the only reasonable explanation for Javon Walker not playing is the Marcus Allen treatment he MAY be receiving from AL Davis due to him having off-season surgery and doing it on his own without telling anyone.

The ONE bright spot in the entire receiving core is Zach Miller, without him, I shiver to think how poorly this team would play.

Zach has hauled in 28 passes for 421 yards. Murphy and Bey have combined for 21 catches for 306 yards. In fact, the entire wide receiving core has 28 catches for 373 yards. That is just downright terrible. Especially when you see that Johnnie Lee Higgins, last year's top wide-out has only 2 catches for 8 yards.

This really is disgusting and, I believe, is much worse than the time spent under Shell and Walsh, this team actually has talent on the offensive side of the ball and they are terrible. There is no excuse for NOT getting the ball to Johnnie Lee more and for sitting Javon Walker on the bench so that DHB can watch another perfectly thrown TD bounce off of his facemask.

What do you think of the Receiving core's perfromance, so far, Raider Nation?

This post was sponsored by Comcast Red Zone

Talkin' With Tyvon - #10

2009-11-04T11:22:48Z

Greetings Raider Nation and the Silver and Black Pride community! I am pleased to bring to all of you the 10th installment in the series, Talkin' With Tyvon, from Raiders starting strong safety Tyvon Branch.

With the Raiders having entered their bye-week, Tyvon was good enough to answer some questions and provide some insight into the Chargers game before he takes a well deserved short break. Tyvon and the Raiders will be back in action on November 18th when they face the Kansas City Chiefs at the Coliseum.

The Community is invited to pose some questions for Tyvon in the comments section and he will do his best to get as many of them answered as quickly as possible:

Hello Raider Fans!! Thanks for all the support over the weeks. We tried to get the intensity back where it needs to be this week. We needed to make a few more plays and stop them from their long passing game. Going into the bye this week we can evaluate and hopefully get healthy. Getting some of our dinged up guys back on the field will hopefully get us going on the right track. We have eight games left to turn this around.

TB

SABP: I know players only like to count victories as the result from the scoreboard and not moral ones, but you and the defense had to at least be satisfied that the Raiders played a hard fought and competitive game. Did the way the defense played against the Chargers give you all hope going into the bye you will regroup and come out strong for the 2nd half of the season?

TB: Moral victories do not get us into the playoffs, and counting them just means you didn't win. Having two wins at this point of the season is not where we want to be. We need to build off the things we do well and remove the things that are slowing our progress. Hopefully this bye week will allow us to recoup and get some things going for the second half of the season.

SABP: The bye week I'm sure will be used to get everyone healthy, but will you use the extra time to work through some of the problems that have plagued the team for the first part of season?

TB: Definitely. We have a lot to work on. We just need to stay focused and get better.

SABP: Once again, great job Tyvon, you really showed up big AGAIN last week. You led the team in tackles and you played the receivers and Gates as well as anybody. I an wondering though, what happened on CJ's interception return? Did you give him a little grief for just tossing you to the ground?

TB: Oh man...did he ever. He ran me over. I was slowing up trying to set and get back for him and he comes and runs me over. I felt as if I rolled 10 yards. After watching that on film I will know to stay out of his way from now on.

SABP: Your size and speed are starting to get noticed around the league. Are starting to feel more comfortable with the speed of the game and the league in general that you are able to maximize your skills and play on pure instinct?

TB: Definitely. Last year I was starting to feel more comfortable then I got hurt. Now I am starting to recognize things quicker and make better football plays. Experience and comfort level are important to really play a pure instinct.

Thanks Tyvon, have a good bye week and look forward to you coming back and cracking the Chiefs.

Oakland Raiders Postgame Recap: Raiders 16, Chargers 24

2009-11-02T02:08:40Z

                             Originally Posted: Sunday, November 1: 6:05 p.m.

      Are they yelling or shaking hands? You be the judge. [via www.pe.com]

Coming in as 17-point underdogs, many people expected the Oakland Raiders to get blown out at the hands of the San Diego Chargers. While Oakland never led at any point in the ball game, they battled back from down 21-7 to make it a little too close for comfort for San Diego in a 24-16 defeat.

Early on, it was "here we go again" with the Raiders. A good drive was halted due to a terrible pass by quarterback JaMarcus Russell resulting in an interception for Antonio Cromartie. Russell, 14-for-22 on the day, was much more accurate due to more passes being from a short range. That pass, however, was deeper down the field and ill-advised. A deep bomb from Philip Rivers to Malcom Floyd set up a six-yard touchdown for LaDainian Tomlinson, who had 56 yards on the ground. Just minutes into the second quarter, though, the Raiders cashed in on an interception of their own. A three-yard run by tough-running Justin Fargas capped a very short 27-yard drive to tie things up. Fargas' 59 yards led the team in rushing for the third straight game.

Malcom Floyd's impressive catch against Michael Huff was the key play in the drive. [via a.espncdn.com]

Moving along, the Chargers utilized wide receiver Vincent Jackson to perfection. Jackson alone had almost 60 yards on the team's next scoring drive on five grabs. Fittingly, he scored the touchdown to end it. Another LaDainian Tomlinson touchdown with 54 seconds to go had many thinking that it was over right there with halftime approaching. In the words of college football analyst Lee Corso, "Not so fast, my friends." Kickoff return "specialist" Jonathan Holland, who the announcers repeatedly referred to as being from Louisiana Tech, had the best return of his career that eventually set up a Sebastian Janikowski field goal. You had to feel good about points before the half.

LaDainian Tomlinson had two touchdown runs against the Raiders on the day. [via a.espncdn.com]

To start the second half, the Raiders defense came up with a three-and-out. The offense responded with a field goal to make it a one possession game, 21-13. Later on in the quarter, a reverse to Louis Murphy had Oakland on San Diego's 18 to close the quarter. Unfortunately, the drive stalled and the team had to settle for three points. A field goal by Nate Kaeding had made it a 24-16 game with just over four minutes to play in regulation. Could JaMarcus Russell lead the troops down the field to tie it up?

The Chargers brought the blitz all day, led by linebacker Shaun Phillips. [via a.espncdn.com]

With the game on the line and a first down at San Diego's 44, Russell dropped back to pass; however, Shaun Phillips' sack had killed basically all of the momentum right there. A penalty and Shawne Merriman's first sack of the season had made things basically impossible. An 11-yard pass to Zach Miller, leading the team with 52 receiving yards for the day, had set up a fourth down with the team needing 20 yards. A bullet over the middle to Johnnie Lee Higgins was incomplete, as the attempted to quickly grab it and toss it back to Darrius Heyward-Bey. Well, Higgins never caught the ball. It would have definitely been interesting to see what Heyward-Bey would have done as it appeared that he had some space to make something happen. With 54 seconds to go, the Chargers took two knees and came away with a 24-16 victory.

Head coaches Tom Cable and Norv Turner shake hands after the game. [via a.espncdn.com]

The Raiders, now 2-6, have a bye and then take on the Kansas City Chiefs to complete the season series with them on November 15. The Chargers, 4-3 and two games behind the Denver Broncos for first place, will be heading to New Jersey to take on the New York Giants.

Vincent Jackson was the player of the game, posting 103 yards and a touchdown. [via a.espncdn.com]

All in all, with the way some of these games have gone for the Raiders this season, it was nice to see some competitive football. The end result wasn't what we wanted, sure, but the team played hard and continued to fight until the end. The defense was marvelous in the second half and gave us a chance to win. Drives stalled and we had to settle for field goals, so it would have been nice to see them punch it for six. Wide receivers had only two grabs for 16 yards on the day, so production from that spot continues to be the weakest in the league. I hope to get healthy with the bye week coming up. I am sure I speak for everyone when I say that we'd like to have Chaz Schilens, Robert Gallery and Darren McFadden back against the Chiefs in two weeks.

For all Oakland Raiders coverage, check out Comcast SportsNet California. [via csnbayarea.com]

Game Thread: Oakland Raiders @ San Diego Chargers

2009-11-01T20:30:24Z

Everyone knows how this game is supposed to end up, BUT, if the games always followed suit, there would be no need to play them.

So, now is the time for the Raiders to Answer the Bell, much as , according to Charlie Frye, JaMarcus Russell did at 6:30AM this past Wednesday. Heck, the 60 million dollar man probably woke up earlier than me that day!! (Cue Gomer Pyle, "Surprise, Surprise!!!".)

It would not "Surprise" me at all to think that this is Tom Cable's last hurrah, if he doesn't get a win this week. 2-6 going into the break, with a last place scoring offense that you call the plays for and an owner with a quick fuse, well, you get the picture. If this team loves Cable as much as they say they do, they'd better leave it ALL on the field.

Here is to hoping that, once again, this team does the unthinkable and beats a team that nobody picked them too.

So, raise a glass of whatever you are drinking, and, toast with me:

"Here is to the Good Times And Bad,

The happy times and sad,

And here is to Every Sunday,

Where the GOOD GUYS WEAR BLACK!!!"

RRAAAIIDDEERRSS!!!!!!