Well, someone woke me up. I just had a dream that my Raiders won 2 of their last 3 games. Opps, it was not a dram. It is true! They changed QB's and won 2 of their last 3 games. Even defeating the Superbowl Champion Steelers. But, wait!
I have been quiet for the last 4 weeks, for a number of reasons. The main one being that I wanted to watch this team and it's Head Coach closely to see if I was truly seeing and hearing what was being reported in Vegas. After listening to JaMarcus Russell's interview after last weeks game, I have come to beleive the reports...to a point. (you know I do not like reporters)
As I have stated numerous times this season, the Raiders WR's need to learn what it takes to catch an NFL QB's passes. The Coach needs to learn that you never let up on defensive pressure, when you have been applying said pressure the 1st, 2nd and 3rd quarters of the game. They did that againist the Chiefs and against the Cowboys. The Head Coach needs to rely on someone else to call the plays on offense and defense. He does not know how to handle that duty. Yes, the Raiders defeated the Bengals and the Steelers, but look at what they faced. They were up against teams that took them lightly and were banged up, heavily. The Raiders still had to fight tooth and nail to win by 3 points.
I give all the credit to Bruce Gradkowski. He has stepped up to the task and taken this team on his shoulders. Not being afraid to get in the WR's faces when they drop wide open passes. Challenging the OL to do better at protecting him. Setting a positive example for JaMarcus Russell to learn from. But wait! I am not sold on Gradkowski. It is just a matter of time before the good DB's study enough game film to understand how easy it is to stop a side-arm passer. Every pass Bruce throws is side-arm and experts will tell you, side-arm does not last in the NFL. That is why he has been a career backup QB. However, it is working at the moment and that is what matters.
The Raiders defense is spent. They have had a tough season fighting to keep the games close as long as they could. If the offense does not step up, it will all fall down.
I have aleways been high on JaMarcus. I still think he is a good QB. So does Al Davis. It has already been reported that, no matter what happens the rest of this season, JaMarcus will be the stating QB, next season. Those are the words of Tom Cable, Head Coach. But, I saw an interview, this week, with JaMarcus. You would think that, after the last 3 games, he would begin to understand how to be a team player. How to be a true leader of the offense. It was pointed out that he has 1 year left on his contract and when asked if he "would be willing to renegoiate it (the contract) to lower the salary in an effort to help the Raiders sign free agent veteran WR's", he said "I am not renegoiating anything. The difference is the recievers are catching the ball, now." That shows me he is not willing to take the heat of the team on his back. He is not willing to help the team improve. He is not ready to lead. He is the last one in the office each day and the first one out. The only reason the rookie WR's are catching the ball for Gradkowski is he works with them and pushes them to do better. He is the first one in each morning, often before the coaches. He is the last one out at night. He studies harder. He wants it more. JaMarcus needs to wake up and smell the 30 million dollar coffee.
The reason Al Davis told Tom Cable "Do what you think is best" is because Tom Cable will be fired at the end of the season. Al has re-hired Randy Hanson, the man behind the scandle of the season and who wanted the Head Coaching job before Lane Kiffen was fired. He was even suspended by Kiffen whe Lane was Head Coach of the Raiders. The writtings on the wall. Tom Cables decision to bench JaMarcus has produced two more wins, but I am still not convinced. As stated before, I will not be convinced the team chemistry is there until the Raiders win 3 games in a row. The time has come. They defeated the Steelers last week (Congrats to Gradkowski for being named AFC Player of the Week) on 3 4th quarter touchdowns. Very impressive touchdowns. He took command of the sinking ship and keep it afloat. The Redskins come to the Black Hole this week. They are wounded and torn. The Raiders should be able to strike and strike hard making it two in a row. Next week they play the Broncos in Denver. The Broncos are banged up as well. We will see how things go at that time.
According to all I have stated above, I see the Raiders defeating the Redskins, who will be without Clinton Portis, by a score of 27-17. I see the Raiders defense stepping up and making it an easy game for the Raider offense. I see more trouble for JaMarcus as he simple does not understand the importance of hard work.
The Raiders are on the raise, they just have to see it for themselves.
As always, that is my opinion. You do not have to agree with it. Just respect it.
Remember, don't hate the player, hate the game.
Raider-Man out.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Back To The Grind
Well, I'm back, after a 2 week absence. Just trying to keep things in check and hope for a change. Let get into this.
OK, I can't say this enough. THE RAIDERS ARE NOT AS BAD AS IT LOOKS. They were not blown out by the Chargers. It all comes down to coaching. Tom Cable does not have command of this team. He does not know how to call plays, the players lack trust in his ability to lead as Head Coach, Big Al knows this and is now looking for the perfect oportunity to replace him.
JaMarcus had yet another decent game. While he throw for 109 yards, he was still over 50% on completions. If you saw the game, you would have noticed the rookie WR's are starting to learn how to catch JaMarcus' passes. The Raiders are coming around. JaMarcus was 14/22 with 1INT. Show me where that is bad. The Raiders need to call more passes. JaMarcus should be throwing a minimum of 30 passes per game. They also need to give him the green light on running the ball. He was a running QB in college, but Tom Cable wants him to sit in the pocket. Use his strength and let him run. They will win more games. I assure you whomever becomes the next Raider Head Coach will turn JaMarcus loose and let him do what he does best. He has learned the defensive schemes he faces in the NFL and with his size and arm, if the LB's, CB's and Safeties are not sure if he is running or passing, the Raiders will beat them ever time. Justin Fargas has proven that he is healthy by running the ball very well. He had 59 yards rushing. Michael Bush had 27 yards rushing. When McFadden comes back the Raider backfield will be solid.
The Chargers only had the ball :30 longer than the Raiders. Both teams had 3 turnovers, the Raiders only had 6 penalties (not enough for a Raider team) and the Chargers only won by 8 points. All these things serve as evidence that the problem is coaching. Better coaching would have won the game for the Raiders, because that is one element overlooked by most people (fans, media, expert, etc.). A good coach knows how to shift the advantage in his teams favor. Tom Cable does not and it is now that the Raiders need to make a change.
The Cheifs are coming to town this week. This is a game that the Raiders can use to build their egos. They need it. The Cheifs not only are horrible, but the lack the will to win and they have all but cut their best RB Larry Johnson. They have noone who can challenge the Raiders. I say that but I still think it will be a low scoring game. The Raiders are coming off a bye week which was preceeded by a tough loss to the Chargers. I say the Raiders will win 14-12. Let's see how right I am.
Visit my site, read the Raider facts, comment on the sites setup, comment on the bolg post and let's see if the number of readers can increase. I have been asked to take the site to a more global location, but the numbers have to be bigger.
Until next week, these were my opinions, don't hate the player, hate the game,
Raider-Man
OK, I can't say this enough. THE RAIDERS ARE NOT AS BAD AS IT LOOKS. They were not blown out by the Chargers. It all comes down to coaching. Tom Cable does not have command of this team. He does not know how to call plays, the players lack trust in his ability to lead as Head Coach, Big Al knows this and is now looking for the perfect oportunity to replace him.
JaMarcus had yet another decent game. While he throw for 109 yards, he was still over 50% on completions. If you saw the game, you would have noticed the rookie WR's are starting to learn how to catch JaMarcus' passes. The Raiders are coming around. JaMarcus was 14/22 with 1INT. Show me where that is bad. The Raiders need to call more passes. JaMarcus should be throwing a minimum of 30 passes per game. They also need to give him the green light on running the ball. He was a running QB in college, but Tom Cable wants him to sit in the pocket. Use his strength and let him run. They will win more games. I assure you whomever becomes the next Raider Head Coach will turn JaMarcus loose and let him do what he does best. He has learned the defensive schemes he faces in the NFL and with his size and arm, if the LB's, CB's and Safeties are not sure if he is running or passing, the Raiders will beat them ever time. Justin Fargas has proven that he is healthy by running the ball very well. He had 59 yards rushing. Michael Bush had 27 yards rushing. When McFadden comes back the Raider backfield will be solid.
The Chargers only had the ball :30 longer than the Raiders. Both teams had 3 turnovers, the Raiders only had 6 penalties (not enough for a Raider team) and the Chargers only won by 8 points. All these things serve as evidence that the problem is coaching. Better coaching would have won the game for the Raiders, because that is one element overlooked by most people (fans, media, expert, etc.). A good coach knows how to shift the advantage in his teams favor. Tom Cable does not and it is now that the Raiders need to make a change.
The Cheifs are coming to town this week. This is a game that the Raiders can use to build their egos. They need it. The Cheifs not only are horrible, but the lack the will to win and they have all but cut their best RB Larry Johnson. They have noone who can challenge the Raiders. I say that but I still think it will be a low scoring game. The Raiders are coming off a bye week which was preceeded by a tough loss to the Chargers. I say the Raiders will win 14-12. Let's see how right I am.
Visit my site, read the Raider facts, comment on the sites setup, comment on the bolg post and let's see if the number of readers can increase. I have been asked to take the site to a more global location, but the numbers have to be bigger.
Until next week, these were my opinions, don't hate the player, hate the game,
Raider-Man
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
No, It Was Not A Dream.
Well, another week gone by and another win for the Raiders. I did say they had a chance at defeating the Eagles. I did not think the Eagles would perform so poorly.
The Raiders are awesome! They continue to show that they can dominate any team that faces them. I tried to tell you Raider Fans who were lost faith, we are backing a damn good team.
Let me break it down for you. Were the Raiders that good or were the Eagles that bad? The Raiders ARE that good. I, for the entire season, have said that in order for the Raiders to win the division, they had to bring in an experienced wide receiver, they needed to protect JaMarcus Russell better, they had to improve their play calling on offense and they had to stop letting up on defense late in the game.
Here is what they did. After releasing him on September 5th, on October 7th, they brought back veteran wide receiver Gary Russell. He played against the Eagles and proved he can be the factor JaMarcus and Zack Miller need on offense. He can catch, block and run with the best of them. JaMarcus was 17 of 28 for 224 yards with 2 INT's. Good numbers, even with the INT's. The O'line not only protected him, they opened hole that even my slow behind could have run through. That also helps to relieve the pressure on JaMarcus. Yes, he made some bad throws and had 2 picks, but he is going to do that.
The Raider Defense was still on top of everything. Someone told me last week the defense is tired. They can't continue to play at a high level if the offense does not give them rest. Well, they showed that they are in the best shape of any defense in the league. That Raider Defense never stopped apply pressure on the Eagles, even in the closing minutes of the game. Richard Seymour can not be stopped. When the Raiders Defense held the Eagles (the team with the highest scoring average [35 pts per game] in the league) To 4 and out at the goal line, every Raider Fan in the world should have known, at that moment, the game belonged to the Raiders.
Now, allow me to be even more real. Listen up Bucky and Jake. I want you to understand more than anyone. (you too, Alex) While the Raiders won the game, I am still concerned with offensive production and coaching. The final score was Raiders 13 - Eagles 9. I am not happy. If the Raiders did not have such an awesome defense, they would not have won that game. The defense won that game, not the offense. The Raiders should be scoring at least 20 points per game. When they do, they win. Check the record. The problem is coaching. Tom Cable does not get it. He still thinks it's the players. They are playing as hard as they can. He himself stated "They have the will to fight to win." But, the reason they cannot put the ball in the endzone, even when they are in the redzone, is bad play calling. The coaches do not know how to finish a drive like a Raider and that hurts. Yes, they held the #1 offense in the league to 3 field goals, but they only got 1 touchdown and that was in the 1st quarter. I will not be satisfied until the Raiders are putting 20 or more points on the scoreboard. Then, I will say the team is well run. Someone needs to slap Tom Cable and wake him up.
On the positive tip...Justin Fargus is the best RB the Raiders have, right now. Keep giving him the ball and the passing game will be wide open. I loved the extra help the Raiders got from that pigeon on the kicking team. He showed how to contain a runner. Someday I will explain it to those of you who do not know. If you ever see me, just ask.
This week the Raiders are hosting the Jets. It will be a great game. My only concern is can the Raiders be consistent and repeat their power playing for a 2nd week? I think they can. I think they will. I see them defeating the Jets by 10 points. Defense, keep pressure on the Jets offense. Pound on Mark Sanchez each and every time he snaps the ball. Offense, continue to open holes and pass block with the precision you displayed against the Eagles. If you can defeat the Eagles, you can defeat anybody.
GO RAIDERS!!!!
Raider-Man, See Ya!!!
The Raiders are awesome! They continue to show that they can dominate any team that faces them. I tried to tell you Raider Fans who were lost faith, we are backing a damn good team.
Let me break it down for you. Were the Raiders that good or were the Eagles that bad? The Raiders ARE that good. I, for the entire season, have said that in order for the Raiders to win the division, they had to bring in an experienced wide receiver, they needed to protect JaMarcus Russell better, they had to improve their play calling on offense and they had to stop letting up on defense late in the game.
Here is what they did. After releasing him on September 5th, on October 7th, they brought back veteran wide receiver Gary Russell. He played against the Eagles and proved he can be the factor JaMarcus and Zack Miller need on offense. He can catch, block and run with the best of them. JaMarcus was 17 of 28 for 224 yards with 2 INT's. Good numbers, even with the INT's. The O'line not only protected him, they opened hole that even my slow behind could have run through. That also helps to relieve the pressure on JaMarcus. Yes, he made some bad throws and had 2 picks, but he is going to do that.
The Raider Defense was still on top of everything. Someone told me last week the defense is tired. They can't continue to play at a high level if the offense does not give them rest. Well, they showed that they are in the best shape of any defense in the league. That Raider Defense never stopped apply pressure on the Eagles, even in the closing minutes of the game. Richard Seymour can not be stopped. When the Raiders Defense held the Eagles (the team with the highest scoring average [35 pts per game] in the league) To 4 and out at the goal line, every Raider Fan in the world should have known, at that moment, the game belonged to the Raiders.
Now, allow me to be even more real. Listen up Bucky and Jake. I want you to understand more than anyone. (you too, Alex) While the Raiders won the game, I am still concerned with offensive production and coaching. The final score was Raiders 13 - Eagles 9. I am not happy. If the Raiders did not have such an awesome defense, they would not have won that game. The defense won that game, not the offense. The Raiders should be scoring at least 20 points per game. When they do, they win. Check the record. The problem is coaching. Tom Cable does not get it. He still thinks it's the players. They are playing as hard as they can. He himself stated "They have the will to fight to win." But, the reason they cannot put the ball in the endzone, even when they are in the redzone, is bad play calling. The coaches do not know how to finish a drive like a Raider and that hurts. Yes, they held the #1 offense in the league to 3 field goals, but they only got 1 touchdown and that was in the 1st quarter. I will not be satisfied until the Raiders are putting 20 or more points on the scoreboard. Then, I will say the team is well run. Someone needs to slap Tom Cable and wake him up.
On the positive tip...Justin Fargus is the best RB the Raiders have, right now. Keep giving him the ball and the passing game will be wide open. I loved the extra help the Raiders got from that pigeon on the kicking team. He showed how to contain a runner. Someday I will explain it to those of you who do not know. If you ever see me, just ask.
This week the Raiders are hosting the Jets. It will be a great game. My only concern is can the Raiders be consistent and repeat their power playing for a 2nd week? I think they can. I think they will. I see them defeating the Jets by 10 points. Defense, keep pressure on the Jets offense. Pound on Mark Sanchez each and every time he snaps the ball. Offense, continue to open holes and pass block with the precision you displayed against the Eagles. If you can defeat the Eagles, you can defeat anybody.
GO RAIDERS!!!!
Raider-Man, See Ya!!!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Wake Me Up, I Must Be Dreaming!
Well, you want it, here it is...
Either Tom Cable is an idiot or a bad liar. He says the problem is not a lack of effort, but a lack of execution. Well, that could not be farther from the truth. It is clear to all who are watching that the players on the Raiders offense have given up. Including JaMarcus Russell. This weeks game displayed a total lack of effort on both the pro and rookie side. Even the assistant coaches gave up on against the Giants. The Giants tried to help them by taking their stars out early. It was a National Televised game that stunk up the airwaves.
Cable also stated the offensive point production is low and must be fixed. DUH! He even threw the returnmen (Jonathan Holland, Johnnie Lee Higgins and Nick Miller) under the bus by stating they are not running. He then blames the defense for allowing to many "explosive plays".
Let me say what I think...
He has proven the point I made the day he was named interm head coach. He is not the one. He can not coach the Raiders any better than me (and I think I can lead them to the Championship). He can not motivate the players, young or old. He does not look at the them from a different angle than the fans in the seat. He does not have a Raider Coach I.Q.
Enough of the negative stuff. This season can be fixed. The ship can be righted. It will take someone to step up and light a fire under the players and get them to understand that they are a team of 53 guys who would love to win. It's not easy and it is a long road, but if they work together, they can make their fans proud. Step one is to remove Tom Cable from the picture. That is coming, soon. Very soon.
Someone needs to teach the rookie WR's how to get open and catch JaMarcus' passes. Someone, a family member, needs to get JaMarcus to understand the priviledge he has before him. If they can get his confidence up and the fans off his back, he will be great. He was 8-13 against the Giants. Great by my standards. Yet, people and the media are all over him because of the way he looks on the sideline. Get over it. He may be overweight, dull, etc. but he is still trying when he is between the lines. There is not much you can do when players are dropping passes. Each team they face know the recievers are dropping passes, so they just pin their ears back and go after the QB. The offensive line is injuried, but they still need to block in order to astablish a better running game. Then they can throw the ball.
The Raiders defense is still tuff. They are worn out, but they continue to march forward and fight hard. Any team in the NFL is going to have big plays on offense. Even the Raiders manage a few each week. That's football. Do not give up on the defense.
Do not give up on the Raiders. They will rebound. Changes are coming, daily. Changes that will improve the team. I feel it. I know it. They need you to be positive. They need every Raider fan in the world to support them more than ever. The Eagles are coming to town this week and they are better than the Giants, in my never-to-be-humbled opinion. That does not mean the Raiders can't beat them. Remember, whenever you overlook your opponent, he will eat you for lunch. Every team on the Raiders schedule are overlooking them. If they have to host the Raiders, they are thinking, "Who's hosting the Monday Night Footbal party, this week?", if they are coming to visit, they are thinking "How fast can we get out of Oakland?". All that can lead to Raider victories. For that, I say "Hold tight, that's right!"
This post I talked only Raider football. It needed to be done and it needed to be done, now. Raider fans are losing their way and I must get them back on the right path or they will sink the team. If we all grab a pale and start scooping, we can stop the ship from sinking.
That's what I think. You don't have to agree, just stop haten.
Just Win, Baby!!!!
Raider-Man, later.
Either Tom Cable is an idiot or a bad liar. He says the problem is not a lack of effort, but a lack of execution. Well, that could not be farther from the truth. It is clear to all who are watching that the players on the Raiders offense have given up. Including JaMarcus Russell. This weeks game displayed a total lack of effort on both the pro and rookie side. Even the assistant coaches gave up on against the Giants. The Giants tried to help them by taking their stars out early. It was a National Televised game that stunk up the airwaves.
Cable also stated the offensive point production is low and must be fixed. DUH! He even threw the returnmen (Jonathan Holland, Johnnie Lee Higgins and Nick Miller) under the bus by stating they are not running. He then blames the defense for allowing to many "explosive plays".
Let me say what I think...
He has proven the point I made the day he was named interm head coach. He is not the one. He can not coach the Raiders any better than me (and I think I can lead them to the Championship). He can not motivate the players, young or old. He does not look at the them from a different angle than the fans in the seat. He does not have a Raider Coach I.Q.
Enough of the negative stuff. This season can be fixed. The ship can be righted. It will take someone to step up and light a fire under the players and get them to understand that they are a team of 53 guys who would love to win. It's not easy and it is a long road, but if they work together, they can make their fans proud. Step one is to remove Tom Cable from the picture. That is coming, soon. Very soon.
Someone needs to teach the rookie WR's how to get open and catch JaMarcus' passes. Someone, a family member, needs to get JaMarcus to understand the priviledge he has before him. If they can get his confidence up and the fans off his back, he will be great. He was 8-13 against the Giants. Great by my standards. Yet, people and the media are all over him because of the way he looks on the sideline. Get over it. He may be overweight, dull, etc. but he is still trying when he is between the lines. There is not much you can do when players are dropping passes. Each team they face know the recievers are dropping passes, so they just pin their ears back and go after the QB. The offensive line is injuried, but they still need to block in order to astablish a better running game. Then they can throw the ball.
The Raiders defense is still tuff. They are worn out, but they continue to march forward and fight hard. Any team in the NFL is going to have big plays on offense. Even the Raiders manage a few each week. That's football. Do not give up on the defense.
Do not give up on the Raiders. They will rebound. Changes are coming, daily. Changes that will improve the team. I feel it. I know it. They need you to be positive. They need every Raider fan in the world to support them more than ever. The Eagles are coming to town this week and they are better than the Giants, in my never-to-be-humbled opinion. That does not mean the Raiders can't beat them. Remember, whenever you overlook your opponent, he will eat you for lunch. Every team on the Raiders schedule are overlooking them. If they have to host the Raiders, they are thinking, "Who's hosting the Monday Night Footbal party, this week?", if they are coming to visit, they are thinking "How fast can we get out of Oakland?". All that can lead to Raider victories. For that, I say "Hold tight, that's right!"
This post I talked only Raider football. It needed to be done and it needed to be done, now. Raider fans are losing their way and I must get them back on the right path or they will sink the team. If we all grab a pale and start scooping, we can stop the ship from sinking.
That's what I think. You don't have to agree, just stop haten.
Just Win, Baby!!!!
Raider-Man, later.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Don't Hate The QB, Hate The Game
Week 4 is over. Little excitement. Monday Night Football was what Monday Night Football should be, every week. Brett Favre was great. The Vikings were great. The Packers defense could do little against the Vikings offense and I don't know if it was because the Vikings defense is that good or the Packers offense is that horrible, but the Packers offensive line looked as bad as my pee wee offensive line. The Packers QB will not last the season, if he continues to get blasted like that, each week. The appeared to be way out classed against the Vikings. It will be interesting to see how they bounce back from the beating they took.
On to the real stuff...
The Raiders have a ton of work to do. They made the Texans look like a Superbowl team in the first half. I am going to keep this short, this week. But, I must say this...the Raiders need receivers who know how to catch a pass. JaMarcus Russell went 12/33 for 128 yards and zero interceptions. While the yardage is good, the completion rate is bad. Hold on before you chop him up. It was not all his fault. Yes, he made some bad throws, but there were far more dropped balls than bad throws and they could have had a better result on the outcome of the game. The Raiders have nothing but rookie wide-outs. That is not going to cut it, at this point.
The other (and main) problem with the Raiders, is the coaching. Tom Cable is proving the point I made last season when he was named replacement. He is not a good head coach for the Raiders. Not to worry, he won't be around much longer. He is facing a felony assault charge and the NFL will suspend him pending the outcome of his trial. This could happen as soon as next week, because the Raiders travel to New York to play the Giants. New York is the home of the NFL. That makes it easy for the Commish to meet with Tom Cable (a sort of "step into my office" thing). That will force Al Davis to name another head coach. And while I do not agree with the charge and punishment, it is going to happen. That's my prediction, but mark my words, it is going to happen.
The Raiders take on the Giants in Giant Stadium. They will be without Darren McFadden. He will miss at least 2 games (there goes my fantasy team). The saving grace...Justin Fargus can still run and Michael Bush will tear the astro-turf up in that place.
I will never give up on the Raiders. I will be cheering for them to win. You can beat the Giants are looking past them. That is why I am picking them to win over the Giants 27-17. MARK IT!
Tomorrow is the opening day of the United Football League. The inaugural game is set between the California Redwoods and the Las Vegas Locomotives at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada. The game will be televised at 6pm, so check your local listings. I will be at the game and will report on the UFL in next weeks post.
Until next time,
Raider-Man, out!
On to the real stuff...
The Raiders have a ton of work to do. They made the Texans look like a Superbowl team in the first half. I am going to keep this short, this week. But, I must say this...the Raiders need receivers who know how to catch a pass. JaMarcus Russell went 12/33 for 128 yards and zero interceptions. While the yardage is good, the completion rate is bad. Hold on before you chop him up. It was not all his fault. Yes, he made some bad throws, but there were far more dropped balls than bad throws and they could have had a better result on the outcome of the game. The Raiders have nothing but rookie wide-outs. That is not going to cut it, at this point.
The other (and main) problem with the Raiders, is the coaching. Tom Cable is proving the point I made last season when he was named replacement. He is not a good head coach for the Raiders. Not to worry, he won't be around much longer. He is facing a felony assault charge and the NFL will suspend him pending the outcome of his trial. This could happen as soon as next week, because the Raiders travel to New York to play the Giants. New York is the home of the NFL. That makes it easy for the Commish to meet with Tom Cable (a sort of "step into my office" thing). That will force Al Davis to name another head coach. And while I do not agree with the charge and punishment, it is going to happen. That's my prediction, but mark my words, it is going to happen.
The Raiders take on the Giants in Giant Stadium. They will be without Darren McFadden. He will miss at least 2 games (there goes my fantasy team). The saving grace...Justin Fargus can still run and Michael Bush will tear the astro-turf up in that place.
I will never give up on the Raiders. I will be cheering for them to win. You can beat the Giants are looking past them. That is why I am picking them to win over the Giants 27-17. MARK IT!
Tomorrow is the opening day of the United Football League. The inaugural game is set between the California Redwoods and the Las Vegas Locomotives at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada. The game will be televised at 6pm, so check your local listings. I will be at the game and will report on the UFL in next weeks post.
Until next time,
Raider-Man, out!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Will The Real Raider Fans Please Stand Up!!!
Week 3 is in the books. It hurt...bad. I could not watch, because I was on the highway between L.A. and Vegas and the game was not on the radio anywhere along the way.
I did see the 49er's game. They put a whoopin' on the Vikings, but left 2 seconds too many on the clock. Brett Favre did what he does. He fired a bullet to Greg Lewis in the endzone to win the game for the Vike's.
The Jets are tough. They could win their division. But, I think the Ravens will come out on top. They have a very strong defense and the offense is not bad. I am really impressed with the Eagles, Bengals, Vikings, 49ers and Jets. I knew the Saints would be good and (as you know) the Raiders are ALWAYS my pick.
Lay off T.O. I am not a fan of Mr. Owens. Don't like him. But, you must give credit where credit is due. He is one of the best at his position, when you can get the ball to him. Analyst are continually taking pot-shots at him every week. In yesterdays post-game presser, Owens was prodded by reporters trying to get him to throw teammates under the bus. He handled it well. Even answer one reporter with "Sir?". While he was not happy with the loss, I don't think he is looking out for himself. But one analyst on NBC, Rodney Harrison, called T.O. a clown, because he refused to say if he was happy with the plays that were being called. let me put this in perspective, again. T.O. had a 105 game streak of at least 1 catch in a game. That ended in yesterday's loss. When asked about it, all he would say is "I run the plays that are called." When asked if he "liked with the plays that are called, he replied "whether I like them or not, I run the plays that are called."
For that, he is called a "Clown" by someone who can no longer play, not because he is out of shape or hurt, but because no team would pick him up. These are the things the media does that I do not like. How many receivers in the NFL, today, have caught at least 1 pass in 105 consecutive games. Look it up. If it is common, let me know and I will shut MY mouth, but having played receiver, I can tell you exactly hard difficult it is to do that. You don't do that by being selfish. You do not throw the ball to yourself. someone has to throw it to you and you have to CATCH it. CATCH IT. You may hate the player, but don't hate his game.
Now that I am fired up...
To those of you who booed JaMarcus after his 2nd interception, shame on you. Shame on you. Shame on you. As I said, I did not get to watch the game as it happened. My brother texted me while I was on my way back home from L.A. when I got home, I watched it. The game was no where near as bad as the score indicated. I will make my point and then end today's rant.
The Broncos QB was 13/23. Russell was 12/21. I rate QB's on this scale, if you are 50% or better on your passes in the NFL, you did good. Remember, every DB is gunning for an INT. JaMarcus only throw 2 and he was still over 50%. He was just as good as the broncos QB. The difference, the Broncos had more yards on their receptions. Big deal. The first INT, if you really look at it, was thrown perfectly on target, but the receiver fell down before he could reach the spot. Had he not fallen, it would have hit him on the spot with no INT. The second INT appeared to be over-thrown until you look at the outside receiver. He was on a fly pattern and the ball was under-thrown. Something that Russell needs to work on. He has to get more air under the ball on some of his deep passes. People want to boo him, but they for get he has not one, but two rookie wideouts. They must learn to catch the ball. I only saw 2 bad passes and they were both under-thrown.
Darren McFadden was running well, but he had 3 fumbles. One of them was lost. It is time for the Raiders to send him to the Tiki Barber school of ball handling. Tiki had that problem for a number of years and then he developed a way of holding the football where it will ever be able to get it out of your arms. It recharged his career.
The Raiders defense is one of the tightest in the league. They kept the Broncos out of the endzone on 4th and goal from the 1-yard line. A not-so-good defense will not do that. Stop the hatein', people.
The problem, as I see it, is coaching. The Raiders only had 6 penalties. That ain't Raider football. As the Raiders defense applies pressure and continues to batter the opponent for 3 quarters, the coach lets up and goes into a soft defense that takes them out of the game. In life, if you have created a gaping wound, you must apply pressure to stop the bleeding. In football, if you have created a gaping wound, you must apply more pressure to increase bleeding making it tough for your victim to recover. I do not think Tom Cable understands that, yet.
so, to those of you who call yourselves "Raider Fans", yet booed JaMarcus Russell after INT #2, you are not, in my opinion a TRUE Raider Fan (unless you rethink the boo, after reading today's blog). Booing does not help. It does not make the problem go away. It does not show support for the team. The players know when they are playing bad. Booing only makes it worse. If you are a True Raider Fan, you will cheer them on when they screw up. You will encourage them to do better, to hold their heads high, to be proud to be a Raider and go out and turn things around. You, the fans, hold the key to preventing the players from giving up on the season. It is not over.
The Raiders travel to the Texans for game 4. A game they will when. You must keep the faith and spread it around for the teams sake.
That's my opinion. You do not have to agree with it, but you should respect it.
Raider-Man, good day.
I did see the 49er's game. They put a whoopin' on the Vikings, but left 2 seconds too many on the clock. Brett Favre did what he does. He fired a bullet to Greg Lewis in the endzone to win the game for the Vike's.
The Jets are tough. They could win their division. But, I think the Ravens will come out on top. They have a very strong defense and the offense is not bad. I am really impressed with the Eagles, Bengals, Vikings, 49ers and Jets. I knew the Saints would be good and (as you know) the Raiders are ALWAYS my pick.
Lay off T.O. I am not a fan of Mr. Owens. Don't like him. But, you must give credit where credit is due. He is one of the best at his position, when you can get the ball to him. Analyst are continually taking pot-shots at him every week. In yesterdays post-game presser, Owens was prodded by reporters trying to get him to throw teammates under the bus. He handled it well. Even answer one reporter with "Sir?". While he was not happy with the loss, I don't think he is looking out for himself. But one analyst on NBC, Rodney Harrison, called T.O. a clown, because he refused to say if he was happy with the plays that were being called. let me put this in perspective, again. T.O. had a 105 game streak of at least 1 catch in a game. That ended in yesterday's loss. When asked about it, all he would say is "I run the plays that are called." When asked if he "liked with the plays that are called, he replied "whether I like them or not, I run the plays that are called."
For that, he is called a "Clown" by someone who can no longer play, not because he is out of shape or hurt, but because no team would pick him up. These are the things the media does that I do not like. How many receivers in the NFL, today, have caught at least 1 pass in 105 consecutive games. Look it up. If it is common, let me know and I will shut MY mouth, but having played receiver, I can tell you exactly hard difficult it is to do that. You don't do that by being selfish. You do not throw the ball to yourself. someone has to throw it to you and you have to CATCH it. CATCH IT. You may hate the player, but don't hate his game.
Now that I am fired up...
To those of you who booed JaMarcus after his 2nd interception, shame on you. Shame on you. Shame on you. As I said, I did not get to watch the game as it happened. My brother texted me while I was on my way back home from L.A. when I got home, I watched it. The game was no where near as bad as the score indicated. I will make my point and then end today's rant.
The Broncos QB was 13/23. Russell was 12/21. I rate QB's on this scale, if you are 50% or better on your passes in the NFL, you did good. Remember, every DB is gunning for an INT. JaMarcus only throw 2 and he was still over 50%. He was just as good as the broncos QB. The difference, the Broncos had more yards on their receptions. Big deal. The first INT, if you really look at it, was thrown perfectly on target, but the receiver fell down before he could reach the spot. Had he not fallen, it would have hit him on the spot with no INT. The second INT appeared to be over-thrown until you look at the outside receiver. He was on a fly pattern and the ball was under-thrown. Something that Russell needs to work on. He has to get more air under the ball on some of his deep passes. People want to boo him, but they for get he has not one, but two rookie wideouts. They must learn to catch the ball. I only saw 2 bad passes and they were both under-thrown.
Darren McFadden was running well, but he had 3 fumbles. One of them was lost. It is time for the Raiders to send him to the Tiki Barber school of ball handling. Tiki had that problem for a number of years and then he developed a way of holding the football where it will ever be able to get it out of your arms. It recharged his career.
The Raiders defense is one of the tightest in the league. They kept the Broncos out of the endzone on 4th and goal from the 1-yard line. A not-so-good defense will not do that. Stop the hatein', people.
The problem, as I see it, is coaching. The Raiders only had 6 penalties. That ain't Raider football. As the Raiders defense applies pressure and continues to batter the opponent for 3 quarters, the coach lets up and goes into a soft defense that takes them out of the game. In life, if you have created a gaping wound, you must apply pressure to stop the bleeding. In football, if you have created a gaping wound, you must apply more pressure to increase bleeding making it tough for your victim to recover. I do not think Tom Cable understands that, yet.
so, to those of you who call yourselves "Raider Fans", yet booed JaMarcus Russell after INT #2, you are not, in my opinion a TRUE Raider Fan (unless you rethink the boo, after reading today's blog). Booing does not help. It does not make the problem go away. It does not show support for the team. The players know when they are playing bad. Booing only makes it worse. If you are a True Raider Fan, you will cheer them on when they screw up. You will encourage them to do better, to hold their heads high, to be proud to be a Raider and go out and turn things around. You, the fans, hold the key to preventing the players from giving up on the season. It is not over.
The Raiders travel to the Texans for game 4. A game they will when. You must keep the faith and spread it around for the teams sake.
That's my opinion. You do not have to agree with it, but you should respect it.
Raider-Man, good day.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Raiders 13 - Chiefs 10
Need I say more? It all come back to "Never give up". More later.
This has been a busy weekend. The Patriots lost, Mayweather wins, the Chargers lost, the Bengals beat the Packers, USC loset, the Raiders win.
Everyone is ready to write the Patriots season off. They lost 1 game. While I can't stand them, I am not ready to say they will not make the playoffs. The Cowboys lost in the last moments on a field goal to open their new stadium. The Dolphins played a masterful game on their home field, only to lose in the last minute passing attack of Peyton Manning. There were a great deal of upsets this Sunday. I say again, it is early. This is only the end of week 2. There are 14 games left to be played.
Side note: Floyd Mayweather, Jr. looked masterful in his victory over Juan Manuel Marquez. He was diffently bigger than his opponent, but he was so much faster than Marquez, it was like watching a boxer hitting his punching bag during training. Now, here is the truth. Mayweather will never be beatten, because he only chooses to fight people who are smaller than him and they have to come up in weight to meet him. Sure he fast, even faster than he was 2 years ago, but let him come down to 138lbs and see how he does (pound-for-pound). His camp is calling for Manny Pacquiao.
Pac-man has to get by Cotto, first. He will. But, Manny is yet another short fighter who is the best in his class. Floyd will not fight him without Manny coming up to 144lbs. That would be a disadvantage for Pacquiao. The added weight will slow him down too much to be effective against Mayweather. He will never come down in weight to fight anyone, no matter what the payday. He won't due to the fact he is trying to build an unstoppable record. Best way to do that...RUN. Shane Moseley has been calling out Floyd for three+ years, yet Floyd will not answer. Moseley is his size, has the skills, has star-power and a "Sugar Shane vs. Money May" card will bring the 20-30 million dollar prize Mayweather wants. Why run? Because Oscar scared Floyd in their fight. If someone who is naturally his size connects, it could be lights-out and nobody wants that.
I must tip my hat to Ray Lewis of the Ravens for stuffing the Chargers to end the game as the Ravens beat them. Thank you, Ray.
Now for the real stuff...
The Raiders went into Kansas City and came out victorious. It was a touch game, but only because it appeared that JaMarcus Russell had a QB meltdown. He was horribly off target. When he was on target, the receivers dropped the ball. I think the line did as good a job as they could, JaMarcus just looked lost. He needs to settle down, understand where he is and know that nobody is going to take his job. He has shown too many times when he calms down, there is nobody better at QB. Yet, I say again, do not worry, he will come around. He has a big enough supporting cast that he does not have to hurry. Everyone laughed when I said the Raiders would beat the Chiefs, especially when Vegas made the Raiders 3-point underdogs. As you see, I was right. The Raiders defense, though banged up, is so sharp, they have put fear into everyone they face. Michael Huff was not even suppose to play. He was on the verge of being cut, yet he played with the pride and pose (like that, Bro.) of a long-time Raider defender. Nnamdi Asomugha continues to show why he is the best Cornerback in the business. The Raider defense can stop anyone they face. My only concern is how the coach pulls the reigns on them in the fourth quarter by stopping the attack and going to the prevent. Please, can you just continue to apply pressure to the weak and wounded. It will make for an easier road to victory.
The Raiders play the Broncos in the Black Hole this Sunday. They will put the points on the board, offensively. They will stop the Broncos, defensively. The Raiders will again emerge victorious.
Raider-Man, peace-out!
This has been a busy weekend. The Patriots lost, Mayweather wins, the Chargers lost, the Bengals beat the Packers, USC loset, the Raiders win.
Everyone is ready to write the Patriots season off. They lost 1 game. While I can't stand them, I am not ready to say they will not make the playoffs. The Cowboys lost in the last moments on a field goal to open their new stadium. The Dolphins played a masterful game on their home field, only to lose in the last minute passing attack of Peyton Manning. There were a great deal of upsets this Sunday. I say again, it is early. This is only the end of week 2. There are 14 games left to be played.
Side note: Floyd Mayweather, Jr. looked masterful in his victory over Juan Manuel Marquez. He was diffently bigger than his opponent, but he was so much faster than Marquez, it was like watching a boxer hitting his punching bag during training. Now, here is the truth. Mayweather will never be beatten, because he only chooses to fight people who are smaller than him and they have to come up in weight to meet him. Sure he fast, even faster than he was 2 years ago, but let him come down to 138lbs and see how he does (pound-for-pound). His camp is calling for Manny Pacquiao.
Pac-man has to get by Cotto, first. He will. But, Manny is yet another short fighter who is the best in his class. Floyd will not fight him without Manny coming up to 144lbs. That would be a disadvantage for Pacquiao. The added weight will slow him down too much to be effective against Mayweather. He will never come down in weight to fight anyone, no matter what the payday. He won't due to the fact he is trying to build an unstoppable record. Best way to do that...RUN. Shane Moseley has been calling out Floyd for three+ years, yet Floyd will not answer. Moseley is his size, has the skills, has star-power and a "Sugar Shane vs. Money May" card will bring the 20-30 million dollar prize Mayweather wants. Why run? Because Oscar scared Floyd in their fight. If someone who is naturally his size connects, it could be lights-out and nobody wants that.
I must tip my hat to Ray Lewis of the Ravens for stuffing the Chargers to end the game as the Ravens beat them. Thank you, Ray.
Now for the real stuff...
The Raiders went into Kansas City and came out victorious. It was a touch game, but only because it appeared that JaMarcus Russell had a QB meltdown. He was horribly off target. When he was on target, the receivers dropped the ball. I think the line did as good a job as they could, JaMarcus just looked lost. He needs to settle down, understand where he is and know that nobody is going to take his job. He has shown too many times when he calms down, there is nobody better at QB. Yet, I say again, do not worry, he will come around. He has a big enough supporting cast that he does not have to hurry. Everyone laughed when I said the Raiders would beat the Chiefs, especially when Vegas made the Raiders 3-point underdogs. As you see, I was right. The Raiders defense, though banged up, is so sharp, they have put fear into everyone they face. Michael Huff was not even suppose to play. He was on the verge of being cut, yet he played with the pride and pose (like that, Bro.) of a long-time Raider defender. Nnamdi Asomugha continues to show why he is the best Cornerback in the business. The Raider defense can stop anyone they face. My only concern is how the coach pulls the reigns on them in the fourth quarter by stopping the attack and going to the prevent. Please, can you just continue to apply pressure to the weak and wounded. It will make for an easier road to victory.
The Raiders play the Broncos in the Black Hole this Sunday. They will put the points on the board, offensively. They will stop the Broncos, defensively. The Raiders will again emerge victorious.
Raider-Man, peace-out!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
And Their Off!!!
Week 1, game 1, over. Big weekend for the NFL. The experts feel like crap. Vegas feels like crap. I feel great. What I said went against the experts. They called for blowouts against the teams that had bad records last year and those teams made close games of it. Nearly winning their games. Only losing by virtue of one mistake.
Injuries. Eagles QB, Donovan McNab, was speared in the endzone after scoring and now has cracked ribs. Nothing happened to the player who caused it. I have always complained about late hits in the endzone. It is not necessary to hit someone in the endzone after they have clearly scored. That is, unless you want to inflict pain. It was clear that inflicting pain on McNab was the only intent. While I do not believe cracking a rib was the goal, I still think a late hit or spearing penalty should have been called. Sure, there are times when you should hit a player in the endzone, but that is in an attempt to prevent him from scoring. Once he has scored, you should lay off. I would like to take this time to say "Thank you, Mr. Commish!" Your decision to further punish Mike Vick has placed the Eagles in a terrible spot. Their starting QB goes down with an injury and you have placed their backup on a useless 2 game suspension. Now, they have to sign another QB for 1 game, while the QB they payed good money for, cannot be used. This is the perfect scenario for the Eagles Mike Vick signing and they cannot proceed. I know you cannot predict an injury, but the Eagles know McNab is injury prone and Mike Vick would be great to step in and take charge until McNab can return. I am not an Eagles fan, but I thought this had to be said.
Moving on....
Monday Night, September 14, 2009 at 7:30pm. Make that date. Make that time. That is when the Raiders shocked everyone (except me) by showing the Chargers who rules the 2009 AFC West. LaDamien Tomlinson was talking trash to the Raider fans before the start of the game. By the end of the game, he was not playing. He was held to 55 yards on 13 carries. That's just over 4 yards per carry. He has averaged 113 yards per game against the Raiders. All the experts said he would run for nearly 200 yards against the Raiders. They never spoke to me. I was the one who, weeks ago, said the Raiders would dominate the AFC West. Everyone laughed. No one is laughing this morning. The Chargers are not laughing.
The Raiders played the Chargers and the refs and they still almost pulled that game out. I liked every aspect of the Raiders game. I hope you see that this team has nowhere to go but up. They will improve. They will get better. Remember, this is the first game that the entire starting cast could play together. They will learn each other. JaMarcus Russell will be great. The Raiders line, both offense and defense, is one of the strongest in the NFL. The defense showed that they are not the junk defense I heard analyst and fans calling them over the past month. Richard Seymour. What can I say. He did not show up for work until Saturday. Two days before the game. He said he did not study the playbook. He had a walk thru with the team on Sunday. He plays the entire game and reeks havoc all over the Chargers offense. He posted 3 tackles, 3 assist and 2 sacks. He was the only Raider to record a sack. When he learns the playbook, look out. The defense did something no other team in the NFL could do over the past 3 years...MADE LT fumble. He did not fumble because of a hard hit. They barely hit him. He fumbled, because the Raiders gang tackled him and one man ripped the ball from his arms. I feel sorry for any team that has to play the Raiders this season. The Chargers are so banged up, they are going to 3rd stringers as replacements. They have to call players they released, last week and ask them to return. THAT IS RAIDER DEFENSE AS DICTATED BY AL DAVIS FOR NEARLY 50 YEARS, PEOPLE.
Ooh, that felt good.
The Raider offense was great. JaMarcus will come around. He will be working on his timing and he aim. It takes time and you do not get that kind of time during preseason. While he went less than 50% (12 of 30) he did throw for 208 yards. The backup, Bruce Gradkowski, was 2 of 2 for 17 yards. Are you secure, now? Do you see that the Raiders have stability at QB. Darren McFadden, Micheal Bush and Zack Miller all were exceptional in last nights game. They will get better. Remember, the Raiders top running back, Justin Fargus, is injured. When he returns, they will be stronger. They have rookie wide receivers. They have game shock under their belt. They will get better.
Now, what you want to hear. My assessment. The Raiders did not surprise me. I fully expected them to win and they would have. Even with a touchdown taken by the refs. They did everything right, except...they did not finish the game. I do not blame the players, I blame the coach. They applied massive pressure on the Chargers from the opening drive. They offense pounded the ball like the Raiders of old. The defense contested EVERY play. The coach forgot that in the 4th quarter. I never liked the prevent defense, even when I played. The Raiders had them beat until they started dropping the linebackers 12 yards deep and leaving the middle of the field open. That is how it broke down. I can only say, first year head coach, pressure situation, he will get better. Tom Cable may not be the best Raider coach, but he is the right Raider coach with the right Raider approach to turn this team around and bring home the trophy.
Next up, the Chiefs, in Kansas City. They Raiders will dominate that game, as well. I can't wait.
As always, this is my opinion. You don't have to accept it, but respect it.
Raider-Man
Injuries. Eagles QB, Donovan McNab, was speared in the endzone after scoring and now has cracked ribs. Nothing happened to the player who caused it. I have always complained about late hits in the endzone. It is not necessary to hit someone in the endzone after they have clearly scored. That is, unless you want to inflict pain. It was clear that inflicting pain on McNab was the only intent. While I do not believe cracking a rib was the goal, I still think a late hit or spearing penalty should have been called. Sure, there are times when you should hit a player in the endzone, but that is in an attempt to prevent him from scoring. Once he has scored, you should lay off. I would like to take this time to say "Thank you, Mr. Commish!" Your decision to further punish Mike Vick has placed the Eagles in a terrible spot. Their starting QB goes down with an injury and you have placed their backup on a useless 2 game suspension. Now, they have to sign another QB for 1 game, while the QB they payed good money for, cannot be used. This is the perfect scenario for the Eagles Mike Vick signing and they cannot proceed. I know you cannot predict an injury, but the Eagles know McNab is injury prone and Mike Vick would be great to step in and take charge until McNab can return. I am not an Eagles fan, but I thought this had to be said.
Moving on....
Monday Night, September 14, 2009 at 7:30pm. Make that date. Make that time. That is when the Raiders shocked everyone (except me) by showing the Chargers who rules the 2009 AFC West. LaDamien Tomlinson was talking trash to the Raider fans before the start of the game. By the end of the game, he was not playing. He was held to 55 yards on 13 carries. That's just over 4 yards per carry. He has averaged 113 yards per game against the Raiders. All the experts said he would run for nearly 200 yards against the Raiders. They never spoke to me. I was the one who, weeks ago, said the Raiders would dominate the AFC West. Everyone laughed. No one is laughing this morning. The Chargers are not laughing.
The Raiders played the Chargers and the refs and they still almost pulled that game out. I liked every aspect of the Raiders game. I hope you see that this team has nowhere to go but up. They will improve. They will get better. Remember, this is the first game that the entire starting cast could play together. They will learn each other. JaMarcus Russell will be great. The Raiders line, both offense and defense, is one of the strongest in the NFL. The defense showed that they are not the junk defense I heard analyst and fans calling them over the past month. Richard Seymour. What can I say. He did not show up for work until Saturday. Two days before the game. He said he did not study the playbook. He had a walk thru with the team on Sunday. He plays the entire game and reeks havoc all over the Chargers offense. He posted 3 tackles, 3 assist and 2 sacks. He was the only Raider to record a sack. When he learns the playbook, look out. The defense did something no other team in the NFL could do over the past 3 years...MADE LT fumble. He did not fumble because of a hard hit. They barely hit him. He fumbled, because the Raiders gang tackled him and one man ripped the ball from his arms. I feel sorry for any team that has to play the Raiders this season. The Chargers are so banged up, they are going to 3rd stringers as replacements. They have to call players they released, last week and ask them to return. THAT IS RAIDER DEFENSE AS DICTATED BY AL DAVIS FOR NEARLY 50 YEARS, PEOPLE.
Ooh, that felt good.
The Raider offense was great. JaMarcus will come around. He will be working on his timing and he aim. It takes time and you do not get that kind of time during preseason. While he went less than 50% (12 of 30) he did throw for 208 yards. The backup, Bruce Gradkowski, was 2 of 2 for 17 yards. Are you secure, now? Do you see that the Raiders have stability at QB. Darren McFadden, Micheal Bush and Zack Miller all were exceptional in last nights game. They will get better. Remember, the Raiders top running back, Justin Fargus, is injured. When he returns, they will be stronger. They have rookie wide receivers. They have game shock under their belt. They will get better.
Now, what you want to hear. My assessment. The Raiders did not surprise me. I fully expected them to win and they would have. Even with a touchdown taken by the refs. They did everything right, except...they did not finish the game. I do not blame the players, I blame the coach. They applied massive pressure on the Chargers from the opening drive. They offense pounded the ball like the Raiders of old. The defense contested EVERY play. The coach forgot that in the 4th quarter. I never liked the prevent defense, even when I played. The Raiders had them beat until they started dropping the linebackers 12 yards deep and leaving the middle of the field open. That is how it broke down. I can only say, first year head coach, pressure situation, he will get better. Tom Cable may not be the best Raider coach, but he is the right Raider coach with the right Raider approach to turn this team around and bring home the trophy.
Next up, the Chiefs, in Kansas City. They Raiders will dominate that game, as well. I can't wait.
As always, this is my opinion. You don't have to accept it, but respect it.
Raider-Man
Friday, September 4, 2009
Let The Games Begin!!!
What a great season we have to look forward too. Our Raiders will be in fine shape. The final roster is being set and I am waiting patiently to see the outcome.
I told you, last week, I would give you predictions you can bet on. Let's get it out of the way. Here are the teams that will win their divisions:
AFC
Raiders
Patriots
Titans
Steelers
NFC
Seahawks
Eagles
Falcons
Vikings
Between that and the college picks I gave out, last week, you should do very well.
Now a word about that Oregon-Boise game, last night. Oregon RB LeGarrette Blount has been a real trooper, this summer. He is having problem academically, is has had attitude issues to the point that the head coach suspended him for 1 practice at the start of camp and after Oregon's big loss to Boise, last night, words were spoken to him by Byron Hout of Boise State. Hout then patted Blount on the shoulder an Blount returned the touch with a right cross that decked Hout. All live on National Television. After Boise coaches and players separated the teams, one of Oregon's coaches held Blount and began walking him to the locker room when fans in the stands began shouting things at Blount. He then charged towards them in an atempt to get in the stands and pound a few Boise heads. But, police, coaches and players wrestled with Blount and rushed him to the locker room. I was appalled and embarrassed to see an African American college athlete, who was a definite NFL draftee, behave as if he had just finished a junior high school game. As soon as I saw the punch, I shouted, "You just blew your college career, college education and you lost yourself millions of dollars in NFL money." I know he appologized and said it would never happen again, but I think if Oregon's coaches want to keep the respect of their players, LeGarrette Blount must loss his scholarship, be removed from the team and be sent home, without hesitation. People are calling for him to be suspended, but I think it should be deeper than that. NUFF SAID.
RAIDERS!!!!
This is the 50th anniversary of the Raiders franchise. I have been a Raider fan for 47 of those 50 years. It will NEVER stop. I say that to say this...the Raiders are going to the Superbowl!!!!
Here is what the standings will be at the end of the regular season:
AFC West: Raiders, Chargers, Chiefs, Broncos
AFC East: Patriots, Dolphins, Jets, Bills
AFC North: Vikings, Bears, Packers, Lions
AFC South: Titans, Jaguars, Colts, Texans
NFC West: Seahawks, 49ers, Cardinals, Rams
NFC East: Eagles, Cowboys, Giants, Redskins
NFC North: Vikings, Bears, Packers, Lions
NFC South: Falcons, Saints, Panthers, Buccaneers
That is how I see it.
The first game is a Monday Night Football game against the Chargers. The Chargers are slowly going down hill. I do not see the matchup. They depend on LaDamian Tomlinson to carry the team on offense and his ego has gotten in the way far too many times. On defense, they are looking to Sean Merriman to lead them thru the season. After his PED violation and his injury last season, he has not looked as consistant as he did his rookie season.
I see the Raiders dominating, not only San Diego, but the entire AFC Western Division. As for this first game, I am going to do something I never do. (This is for you, Big Bro) Micheal Bush will rush for 80 yards, Darren McFadden will get 100 yards rushing, Darrius Heyward-Bey will catch for 80 yards, Johnnie Lee Higgins will have over 100 yards in catches and the final score will be Raiders 27 - Chargers 17.
That's not a prediction, it's my opinion. You do not have to agree with me, but respect it.
Until week 2,
Raider-Man...See Ya!
I told you, last week, I would give you predictions you can bet on. Let's get it out of the way. Here are the teams that will win their divisions:
AFC
Raiders
Patriots
Titans
Steelers
NFC
Seahawks
Eagles
Falcons
Vikings
Between that and the college picks I gave out, last week, you should do very well.
Now a word about that Oregon-Boise game, last night. Oregon RB LeGarrette Blount has been a real trooper, this summer. He is having problem academically, is has had attitude issues to the point that the head coach suspended him for 1 practice at the start of camp and after Oregon's big loss to Boise, last night, words were spoken to him by Byron Hout of Boise State. Hout then patted Blount on the shoulder an Blount returned the touch with a right cross that decked Hout. All live on National Television. After Boise coaches and players separated the teams, one of Oregon's coaches held Blount and began walking him to the locker room when fans in the stands began shouting things at Blount. He then charged towards them in an atempt to get in the stands and pound a few Boise heads. But, police, coaches and players wrestled with Blount and rushed him to the locker room. I was appalled and embarrassed to see an African American college athlete, who was a definite NFL draftee, behave as if he had just finished a junior high school game. As soon as I saw the punch, I shouted, "You just blew your college career, college education and you lost yourself millions of dollars in NFL money." I know he appologized and said it would never happen again, but I think if Oregon's coaches want to keep the respect of their players, LeGarrette Blount must loss his scholarship, be removed from the team and be sent home, without hesitation. People are calling for him to be suspended, but I think it should be deeper than that. NUFF SAID.
RAIDERS!!!!
This is the 50th anniversary of the Raiders franchise. I have been a Raider fan for 47 of those 50 years. It will NEVER stop. I say that to say this...the Raiders are going to the Superbowl!!!!
Here is what the standings will be at the end of the regular season:
AFC West: Raiders, Chargers, Chiefs, Broncos
AFC East: Patriots, Dolphins, Jets, Bills
AFC North: Vikings, Bears, Packers, Lions
AFC South: Titans, Jaguars, Colts, Texans
NFC West: Seahawks, 49ers, Cardinals, Rams
NFC East: Eagles, Cowboys, Giants, Redskins
NFC North: Vikings, Bears, Packers, Lions
NFC South: Falcons, Saints, Panthers, Buccaneers
That is how I see it.
The first game is a Monday Night Football game against the Chargers. The Chargers are slowly going down hill. I do not see the matchup. They depend on LaDamian Tomlinson to carry the team on offense and his ego has gotten in the way far too many times. On defense, they are looking to Sean Merriman to lead them thru the season. After his PED violation and his injury last season, he has not looked as consistant as he did his rookie season.
I see the Raiders dominating, not only San Diego, but the entire AFC Western Division. As for this first game, I am going to do something I never do. (This is for you, Big Bro) Micheal Bush will rush for 80 yards, Darren McFadden will get 100 yards rushing, Darrius Heyward-Bey will catch for 80 yards, Johnnie Lee Higgins will have over 100 yards in catches and the final score will be Raiders 27 - Chargers 17.
That's not a prediction, it's my opinion. You do not have to agree with me, but respect it.
Until week 2,
Raider-Man...See Ya!
Monday, August 31, 2009
3 Down, 1 To Go!
week 3 of the NFL preseason has ended. I more to go. I am so excited, I can hardly wait for the season to get going.
Bret Farve got his reps, even with cracked ribs. Tavares Jackson got 1 series under his belt. I wonder what that means. Mike Vick went 4 for 4 and was done. I think you have to look for the Eagles and the Vikings in the NFC.
I will say this and then I am done. The Raiders lost. By allot. People, it is still preseason. These games do not count. Players are still being evaluated because someone has to be cut. All teams must downsize their rosters by a certain number of players each week until they are down to 50 by the start of the regular season. So, do not panic. The Raiders are looking good in the starting positions. They are strong, they are deep and they are coming together. Nuff Said.
Next week I will give my predictions for the season by division. I have to think long and hard, because the only team I am sure of is the Raiders.
Here is a treat for all of my betting fans. i don't usually do this, but since you have continued to ask, I will give you something to think about placing bets on. Vegas sports books take bets on how many games a team will win during the regular season. You must place the bet before the 1st game of the regular season. So, get ready to run to the casino as I am going to give you my choices for college football. Remember this is just for fun.
Here we go:
Over (bet these to win more games than Vegas says they will)
Penn State
Stanford
Rutgers
BYU
Notre Dame
Under (bet these to win fewer games than Vegas says they will)
Washington
Texas Tech
West Virginia
There you have it. If I am feeling frisky next week, I will give to NFL over/unders for the season.
Remember, this is preseason. Try not to get worked up over the play of people who will be cut the following week. They do not hurt the team.
Never forget, each season the Raiders won the Superbowl, they started with a losing preseason.
You don't have to agree with me, respect my opinion.
Raider-Man, out.
Bret Farve got his reps, even with cracked ribs. Tavares Jackson got 1 series under his belt. I wonder what that means. Mike Vick went 4 for 4 and was done. I think you have to look for the Eagles and the Vikings in the NFC.
I will say this and then I am done. The Raiders lost. By allot. People, it is still preseason. These games do not count. Players are still being evaluated because someone has to be cut. All teams must downsize their rosters by a certain number of players each week until they are down to 50 by the start of the regular season. So, do not panic. The Raiders are looking good in the starting positions. They are strong, they are deep and they are coming together. Nuff Said.
Next week I will give my predictions for the season by division. I have to think long and hard, because the only team I am sure of is the Raiders.
Here is a treat for all of my betting fans. i don't usually do this, but since you have continued to ask, I will give you something to think about placing bets on. Vegas sports books take bets on how many games a team will win during the regular season. You must place the bet before the 1st game of the regular season. So, get ready to run to the casino as I am going to give you my choices for college football. Remember this is just for fun.
Here we go:
Over (bet these to win more games than Vegas says they will)
Penn State
Stanford
Rutgers
BYU
Notre Dame
Under (bet these to win fewer games than Vegas says they will)
Washington
Texas Tech
West Virginia
There you have it. If I am feeling frisky next week, I will give to NFL over/unders for the season.
Remember, this is preseason. Try not to get worked up over the play of people who will be cut the following week. They do not hurt the team.
Never forget, each season the Raiders won the Superbowl, they started with a losing preseason.
You don't have to agree with me, respect my opinion.
Raider-Man, out.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
But Wait...There's More...
What a week of news. The Vikings pulled off the ultimate chess move of the century. They not only signed Brett Farve, but they were able to keep it a secret from the world (the media, the NFL, etc.) for 3 days. Not one leak in an era filled with 3 or 4 leaks per day. They did not simple sign him, they signed him to a 2 year deal. Something the Jets could not do. My view...if he wants to play, let him. As long as there is an owner in the NFL who wants him, more power to him. do not care if he plays well, JUST PLAY, BABY! He is a true Hall of Famer and people should get off his back regarding his retirement. He will when he is ready. If the question is never asked, he will not have to jump in and out of it. I am on his side. He is not a Raider and may never be, but his teams have pounded the Raiders more than I care to imagine. I will always admire a great player, no matter what team he is on. (Except the Broncos)
Plaxico Burress took a plea deal that will net him 2 years in prison for accidentally shooting himself in the leg. Sometimes, I think laws need to be more practical. While he did break a law, he was not intending on harming anyone, least of all himself. He was carrying it for protection. In the days and weeks leading to his incident, various teammates of his had been robbed and carjacked. He was going to a night club and wanted to feel safe. I know there are hundreds of ways he could have picked that were better than carrying a gun in the waist of his sweat pants, but I think his punishment is a bit harsh.
Now for the real news. Raiders 20 49ers 21.
You know I do not talk about preseason games. 1) They don't count. 2) Most of the players you see, will not be part of the team in the regular season. 3) They don't count. 4) The combination of players on the field will not be the combination of player in the regular season. and 5)They don't count.
I will say this, the 2009 Raiders have the players to take them to the Superbowl. They have the fire, drive and will to win. Now, they have the head coach with a hidden fire in him, much like Tom Flores had. The reports of Tom Cable breaking the jaw of defensive assistant Randy Hanson. One leak reported Cable punched Hanson. When other coaches, including Cable, were asked, they stated "No punches were thrown." One leak said Cable flipped the chair in which Hanson was sitting and when he fell out he hit his head on a cabinet door. They more exciting version is "Tom Cable punched Randy Hanson" and so that is what the media ran. I dug deeper and I think no punches were thrown, but Hanson did fall out of the chair and hit his head during the argument. Coaches get into heated arguments everyday, but it is not made public. Someone who wanted to do damage to a team that is finally coming together, leaked this info. The police never went public, even though they are in the middle of an investigation. Now, because of the media, the NFL has launched their own investigation and Tom Cable could lose his job behind this.
Something to think about...Randy Hanson, who is in his third year as a Raider coach. His first 2 years were filled with turmoil as he and then head coach, Lane Kiffin, often get into it. Last season he and Lane got into such a headed argument, Hanson was suspended by Lane for insubordination and disrespect. Hanson went to Al Davis and Al cancelled the suspension. Two weeks later Lane was fired. Hanson also wanted the Head Coaching job. He even thought he was going to get it instead of Tom Cable. My opinion, Randy Hanson is not a Raider coach. He should be replaced...NOW! As for the person who leaked the story...He should be found and banished, as well.
The Saints come marching into town this Saturday. They team will begin to take shape more close to the form that will begin the season. Starters will play longer. Fans will have their starting lineups ready. Visiting teams beware. We don't call it "The Black Hole" because it is in East Oakland.
Ya Hear!
Raider-Man Out!!!!
Plaxico Burress took a plea deal that will net him 2 years in prison for accidentally shooting himself in the leg. Sometimes, I think laws need to be more practical. While he did break a law, he was not intending on harming anyone, least of all himself. He was carrying it for protection. In the days and weeks leading to his incident, various teammates of his had been robbed and carjacked. He was going to a night club and wanted to feel safe. I know there are hundreds of ways he could have picked that were better than carrying a gun in the waist of his sweat pants, but I think his punishment is a bit harsh.
Now for the real news. Raiders 20 49ers 21.
You know I do not talk about preseason games. 1) They don't count. 2) Most of the players you see, will not be part of the team in the regular season. 3) They don't count. 4) The combination of players on the field will not be the combination of player in the regular season. and 5)They don't count.
I will say this, the 2009 Raiders have the players to take them to the Superbowl. They have the fire, drive and will to win. Now, they have the head coach with a hidden fire in him, much like Tom Flores had. The reports of Tom Cable breaking the jaw of defensive assistant Randy Hanson. One leak reported Cable punched Hanson. When other coaches, including Cable, were asked, they stated "No punches were thrown." One leak said Cable flipped the chair in which Hanson was sitting and when he fell out he hit his head on a cabinet door. They more exciting version is "Tom Cable punched Randy Hanson" and so that is what the media ran. I dug deeper and I think no punches were thrown, but Hanson did fall out of the chair and hit his head during the argument. Coaches get into heated arguments everyday, but it is not made public. Someone who wanted to do damage to a team that is finally coming together, leaked this info. The police never went public, even though they are in the middle of an investigation. Now, because of the media, the NFL has launched their own investigation and Tom Cable could lose his job behind this.
Something to think about...Randy Hanson, who is in his third year as a Raider coach. His first 2 years were filled with turmoil as he and then head coach, Lane Kiffin, often get into it. Last season he and Lane got into such a headed argument, Hanson was suspended by Lane for insubordination and disrespect. Hanson went to Al Davis and Al cancelled the suspension. Two weeks later Lane was fired. Hanson also wanted the Head Coaching job. He even thought he was going to get it instead of Tom Cable. My opinion, Randy Hanson is not a Raider coach. He should be replaced...NOW! As for the person who leaked the story...He should be found and banished, as well.
The Saints come marching into town this Saturday. They team will begin to take shape more close to the form that will begin the season. Starters will play longer. Fans will have their starting lineups ready. Visiting teams beware. We don't call it "The Black Hole" because it is in East Oakland.
Ya Hear!
Raider-Man Out!!!!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Welcome Back!!!!!!
Hey Fans,
I have been bombarded with messages asking me to come back. Well, I never left. I know I told you, last week, I would start this past Monday, but I held off because I wanted to see what the United Football League (UFL) was going to do. They held their first press conference in Las Vegas on Monday to announce the team name and nickname along with the schedule and ticket sales. I know you want Raider talk and if I need to tell you that it is coming, YOU don't know me. I want to talk about the UFL, first.
I am very excited about this league. If you love football, you should be, too. Look them up at www.ufl-football.com and tell me if you are not surprised. I won't say too much, this week, but I will keep you posted on their progress. The Las Vegas team is named "The Locomotives" and the nickname is "The Locos". The chant of "GO LOCOS" has already begun around town. The inaugural game will be here in Vegas on October 8, 2009 against the San Francisco team "The California Redwoods" and we have our tickets. I will be in attendance. The head coach for Las Vegas is Jim Fassel. The QB's are J.P. Losman and Tim Rattay. Look them up. Good players. The California teams head coach is Dennis Green. The UFL has a television contract with the Verses Network. The games are on Thursday's starting October 8th with the championship game November 28th (a Friday) in Las Vegas. I will talk about the rules and other happenings in the coming weeks. But, now it's NFL time.
Let me start with the big news. Micheal Vick. He has signed, as of last night, with the Philadelphia Eagles. I am happy. Many are angry. In my opinion, they are fools. I think he has gone through more than enough punishment for something that is a cultural thing. He was found guilty of funding a dog fighting ring. A DOG FIGHTING RING. He did not murder or rape a person. He did not kill someone while he was driving drunk. He did not commit a hate crime. He let dogs fight for money. As I stated in past postings (look them up, people) it is a long standing event throughout the southern belt of the US. Everyone knows it happens. Stripping Michael Vick has not put an end to it, yet there are people in Philadelphia, as well as all across the nation, who have expressed outrage at the his signing with the Eagles. Those people would love to see this man, this Black Man, lynched for putting dogs to harm doing what mean dogs do on a daily basis. Don't get me started.
RAIDERS!!!
It's preseason football time and the Raiders started against the Cowboys, in Oakland, last night. Final score, Raiders 31 Cowboys 10. Now, you know how I feel about preseason games. To that end I will say this. Yes, it was a victory. Yes, they looked awesome. Yes, the defense looked tough. Yes, JaMarcus has shown vast improvements. But, you are watching an evaluation process in effect. Over half the players you saw last night (those who could watch) will not be a part of the team when the regular season starts. The Cowboys were evaluating players, as well. don't sleep on them and don't rush to get high on the Raiders.
I say that just to keep things in perspective. Here is how I feel.
The Raiders are going to win the West. The Raiders will win the Superbowl. I say that, not because of last nights game, but because of things I see out of the regular players, rookies and coaching staff. I have watched training camp film. I have watched interviews. That is how I evaluate my team. Those of you who know me understand my passion, my RAIDER passion. I am not simply blowing smoke, I truly believe what I say and I do not care what anyone else thinks.
I never comment on preseason games, because it is a waste of time to judge a team based on how their worst players perform. The Raiders worst players are better than most teams good players. Nuff said. The Raiders rookies are learning the game, well. The veterans are above par. JaMarcus has a super strong arm. The WR's have learned to catch his passes without making him change his style.
To the team...JaMarcus is the starting QB. They have a good backup in Charlie Frye. Jeff Garcia can teach JaMarcus a ton at QB. He had to deal with Terrell Owens on the 49ers. Bruce Gradkowski is an outstanding QB that will get better with time. Darren McFadden is what he was as a rookie, great. Micheal Bush could win the rushing title this season. He is that strong. Justin Fargus will repeat his great season of last year, if he can stay healthy. Both he and Garcia are dealing with injuries. The Raider defense will be one of the toughest in the NFL again. Teams are already dreading having to face them. They have a big challenge with the schedule, but I think they can handle it. Nnamdi Asomugha will lead the charge. He has challenge each player on defense to step up bigger and better than last year and they will. Both the offensive and defensive lines are tighter and if they offensive line can protect the QB 80% of the time, the Raiders will be feared.
I will close this week with one comment. At halftime of last nights game, there was a tribute to Al Davis. He turns 80 years old this year. It was a fitting tribute and well put together. I think it is something that should be shown on ESPN, as well as, the NFL Network. He is a great man and a football genius. How fitting would it be to win the Vince Lombardi trophy at 80?
Next game, Saturday, August 22nd, against the 49ers on the road. Long road trip.
Until then, you don't have to agree with me, just respect my perspective,
Radier-Man, out!
I have been bombarded with messages asking me to come back. Well, I never left. I know I told you, last week, I would start this past Monday, but I held off because I wanted to see what the United Football League (UFL) was going to do. They held their first press conference in Las Vegas on Monday to announce the team name and nickname along with the schedule and ticket sales. I know you want Raider talk and if I need to tell you that it is coming, YOU don't know me. I want to talk about the UFL, first.
I am very excited about this league. If you love football, you should be, too. Look them up at www.ufl-football.com and tell me if you are not surprised. I won't say too much, this week, but I will keep you posted on their progress. The Las Vegas team is named "The Locomotives" and the nickname is "The Locos". The chant of "GO LOCOS" has already begun around town. The inaugural game will be here in Vegas on October 8, 2009 against the San Francisco team "The California Redwoods" and we have our tickets. I will be in attendance. The head coach for Las Vegas is Jim Fassel. The QB's are J.P. Losman and Tim Rattay. Look them up. Good players. The California teams head coach is Dennis Green. The UFL has a television contract with the Verses Network. The games are on Thursday's starting October 8th with the championship game November 28th (a Friday) in Las Vegas. I will talk about the rules and other happenings in the coming weeks. But, now it's NFL time.
Let me start with the big news. Micheal Vick. He has signed, as of last night, with the Philadelphia Eagles. I am happy. Many are angry. In my opinion, they are fools. I think he has gone through more than enough punishment for something that is a cultural thing. He was found guilty of funding a dog fighting ring. A DOG FIGHTING RING. He did not murder or rape a person. He did not kill someone while he was driving drunk. He did not commit a hate crime. He let dogs fight for money. As I stated in past postings (look them up, people) it is a long standing event throughout the southern belt of the US. Everyone knows it happens. Stripping Michael Vick has not put an end to it, yet there are people in Philadelphia, as well as all across the nation, who have expressed outrage at the his signing with the Eagles. Those people would love to see this man, this Black Man, lynched for putting dogs to harm doing what mean dogs do on a daily basis. Don't get me started.
RAIDERS!!!
It's preseason football time and the Raiders started against the Cowboys, in Oakland, last night. Final score, Raiders 31 Cowboys 10. Now, you know how I feel about preseason games. To that end I will say this. Yes, it was a victory. Yes, they looked awesome. Yes, the defense looked tough. Yes, JaMarcus has shown vast improvements. But, you are watching an evaluation process in effect. Over half the players you saw last night (those who could watch) will not be a part of the team when the regular season starts. The Cowboys were evaluating players, as well. don't sleep on them and don't rush to get high on the Raiders.
I say that just to keep things in perspective. Here is how I feel.
The Raiders are going to win the West. The Raiders will win the Superbowl. I say that, not because of last nights game, but because of things I see out of the regular players, rookies and coaching staff. I have watched training camp film. I have watched interviews. That is how I evaluate my team. Those of you who know me understand my passion, my RAIDER passion. I am not simply blowing smoke, I truly believe what I say and I do not care what anyone else thinks.
I never comment on preseason games, because it is a waste of time to judge a team based on how their worst players perform. The Raiders worst players are better than most teams good players. Nuff said. The Raiders rookies are learning the game, well. The veterans are above par. JaMarcus has a super strong arm. The WR's have learned to catch his passes without making him change his style.
To the team...JaMarcus is the starting QB. They have a good backup in Charlie Frye. Jeff Garcia can teach JaMarcus a ton at QB. He had to deal with Terrell Owens on the 49ers. Bruce Gradkowski is an outstanding QB that will get better with time. Darren McFadden is what he was as a rookie, great. Micheal Bush could win the rushing title this season. He is that strong. Justin Fargus will repeat his great season of last year, if he can stay healthy. Both he and Garcia are dealing with injuries. The Raider defense will be one of the toughest in the NFL again. Teams are already dreading having to face them. They have a big challenge with the schedule, but I think they can handle it. Nnamdi Asomugha will lead the charge. He has challenge each player on defense to step up bigger and better than last year and they will. Both the offensive and defensive lines are tighter and if they offensive line can protect the QB 80% of the time, the Raiders will be feared.
I will close this week with one comment. At halftime of last nights game, there was a tribute to Al Davis. He turns 80 years old this year. It was a fitting tribute and well put together. I think it is something that should be shown on ESPN, as well as, the NFL Network. He is a great man and a football genius. How fitting would it be to win the Vince Lombardi trophy at 80?
Next game, Saturday, August 22nd, against the 49ers on the road. Long road trip.
Until then, you don't have to agree with me, just respect my perspective,
Radier-Man, out!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Welcome Back!
I'm Baaaccckkk!!!! Yes, it has been a while since you last heard from me. I never left, just took a break. Well, here I go with the latest installment.
I do not know if I am happy with the Raiders choice of Tom Cable as Head Coach. Yes, he won some games towards the end of the season, but I don't see the fire in his eyes when he speaks of the team. Maybe the decision came because it was hard to find someone to take the job. NOT! Terry Robiskie was laying in wait, ready to go with a full staff. He knew he could turn this team around. For some reason, the deal could not be closed. I am not happy with release of Ronald Curry, either, but I know that Big Al knows what he is doing and he has the best interest of the Raiders winning another Superbowl at heart.
The schedule is starting to take shape. The Raiders start the preseason in Oakland against the Cowboys. Then they have a long road trip to San Fran to play the 49ers. They have to make that long trek back to Oakland to play the Saints then a short jet ride to Seattle to meet the Seahawks. You do know I am joking about the distance. This is one of the shortest travel routes for the preseason.
As you know, I do not call preseason games, because most of the players you see will not be on the roster by the time the regular season starts. It is audition time.
As for the regular season, good news and bad news. The good news, the Raiders open in Oakland against the Chargers as part of the special Monday Night Football double-header. It marks the 3rd consecutive season the Raiders were part of the Monday Night Football double-header. Say what you will, but there is a reason ESPN has chosen the Raiders to be on their Monday Night opener every year they had a double-header. No other team has that honor. Now, the bad news. Well, it is good news, too. Let me explain. On Thanksgiving Day, the Raider travel to Texas to play the Cowboys. I like the old tradition of Thanksgiving Day games between the Cowboys and the Lions or the Cowboys and the Redskins. Hence, my calling it "bad news". But, I am happy that I get to sit back and watch the Raiders on Thanksgiving. That is worth the wait. I know I will be at home for that, I do not want distractions on that day.
The rest of the schedule has not been posted, yet. Only the names of the opponents for home and away games have been named. For home games the Raiders will face, in addition to the divisional teams, the Ravens, Bengals, Jets, Eagles and Redskins. They will go on the road to meet, in addition to the divisional teams, the Giants, Cowboys, Steelers, Texans and Browns. Again, those on the NFL scheduling committee are the only persons who know the exact dates of the games. I will, as always, keep you posted.
Mini-predictions. I see the Raiders sweeping the Broncos. They just got screwed by a QB who has a decent record, but sensitive feelings. Just because they tried to get a better QB, he doesn't want to play with them, anymore. So, the cut Cutler. I think that was the right thing to do. (Stay away from him, Al. We already got bit by a Bronco once and don't want to get bit again.) My guess is he will end up in Detroit. They need a QB and the Broncos are not looking to make Jake happy. I also, see the Raiders winning against the Chargers. The had some belly aching coming from their star LaDamion Thomlinson. That spells L-O-S-E-R. Finally, the Chiefs. Need I say more? They still have 2 seasons before they can get it together and become the team of old.
In closing, I would like to comment on the Michael Vick situation. That is a classic display of how society (and I mean White Society) can tear a human-being down over an animal. He is bankrupt, can not find anyone to buy his home, has served nearly 2 years in prison in Leavenworth, Kansas and has to give the Falcons 6.5 or 7.5 million dollars from his signing bonus'. I think that he has more than paid his debt to society, yet there are some who still want more from him. I think it has truly come down to race. R-A-C-E. And I don't mean like Vick can outrun anyone. You know what I am talking about. Michael Vick is due to be placed on house arrest on May 20th of this year. His sentence is up on July 20th of this year. He has to go before the NFL Commissioner to ask for reinstatement to the NFL, if he wants to play. It hurt my heart, today, to hear the NFL Commissioner say the following:
"I'm not going to make a judgment until I know all the facts on Michael Vick, I think it's clear he's paid a price, but to a large extent he's going to have to demonstrate to the larger community — not just to the NFL community and to me — that he has remorse for what he did and that he recognizes mistakes that he made. Everyone makes mistakes, but he has to show that genuine remorse in his ability to be a positive influence to correct the things that he did wrong publicly."
Now, who is this "community" that Roger Goodell speaks of? My community certainly believes he is remorseful and has paid the price for more than himself, alone. The only people you find asking for more are the people who think dogs are more valuable than humans. The above statement is proof the Roger Goodell wants to pile-on by publicly humiliating the man even more. He has been broken like no one before him. I say to Goodell, lay off. He has served his time, made his apologies and is due a fair chance. Reinstate him and if he screws up, again, use the tool you love and suspend him.
You don't have to agree with me. It's just how I feel.
Raider-Man, stay true to the game!
(I need a beer)
I do not know if I am happy with the Raiders choice of Tom Cable as Head Coach. Yes, he won some games towards the end of the season, but I don't see the fire in his eyes when he speaks of the team. Maybe the decision came because it was hard to find someone to take the job. NOT! Terry Robiskie was laying in wait, ready to go with a full staff. He knew he could turn this team around. For some reason, the deal could not be closed. I am not happy with release of Ronald Curry, either, but I know that Big Al knows what he is doing and he has the best interest of the Raiders winning another Superbowl at heart.
The schedule is starting to take shape. The Raiders start the preseason in Oakland against the Cowboys. Then they have a long road trip to San Fran to play the 49ers. They have to make that long trek back to Oakland to play the Saints then a short jet ride to Seattle to meet the Seahawks. You do know I am joking about the distance. This is one of the shortest travel routes for the preseason.
As you know, I do not call preseason games, because most of the players you see will not be on the roster by the time the regular season starts. It is audition time.
As for the regular season, good news and bad news. The good news, the Raiders open in Oakland against the Chargers as part of the special Monday Night Football double-header. It marks the 3rd consecutive season the Raiders were part of the Monday Night Football double-header. Say what you will, but there is a reason ESPN has chosen the Raiders to be on their Monday Night opener every year they had a double-header. No other team has that honor. Now, the bad news. Well, it is good news, too. Let me explain. On Thanksgiving Day, the Raider travel to Texas to play the Cowboys. I like the old tradition of Thanksgiving Day games between the Cowboys and the Lions or the Cowboys and the Redskins. Hence, my calling it "bad news". But, I am happy that I get to sit back and watch the Raiders on Thanksgiving. That is worth the wait. I know I will be at home for that, I do not want distractions on that day.
The rest of the schedule has not been posted, yet. Only the names of the opponents for home and away games have been named. For home games the Raiders will face, in addition to the divisional teams, the Ravens, Bengals, Jets, Eagles and Redskins. They will go on the road to meet, in addition to the divisional teams, the Giants, Cowboys, Steelers, Texans and Browns. Again, those on the NFL scheduling committee are the only persons who know the exact dates of the games. I will, as always, keep you posted.
Mini-predictions. I see the Raiders sweeping the Broncos. They just got screwed by a QB who has a decent record, but sensitive feelings. Just because they tried to get a better QB, he doesn't want to play with them, anymore. So, the cut Cutler. I think that was the right thing to do. (Stay away from him, Al. We already got bit by a Bronco once and don't want to get bit again.) My guess is he will end up in Detroit. They need a QB and the Broncos are not looking to make Jake happy. I also, see the Raiders winning against the Chargers. The had some belly aching coming from their star LaDamion Thomlinson. That spells L-O-S-E-R. Finally, the Chiefs. Need I say more? They still have 2 seasons before they can get it together and become the team of old.
In closing, I would like to comment on the Michael Vick situation. That is a classic display of how society (and I mean White Society) can tear a human-being down over an animal. He is bankrupt, can not find anyone to buy his home, has served nearly 2 years in prison in Leavenworth, Kansas and has to give the Falcons 6.5 or 7.5 million dollars from his signing bonus'. I think that he has more than paid his debt to society, yet there are some who still want more from him. I think it has truly come down to race. R-A-C-E. And I don't mean like Vick can outrun anyone. You know what I am talking about. Michael Vick is due to be placed on house arrest on May 20th of this year. His sentence is up on July 20th of this year. He has to go before the NFL Commissioner to ask for reinstatement to the NFL, if he wants to play. It hurt my heart, today, to hear the NFL Commissioner say the following:
"I'm not going to make a judgment until I know all the facts on Michael Vick, I think it's clear he's paid a price, but to a large extent he's going to have to demonstrate to the larger community — not just to the NFL community and to me — that he has remorse for what he did and that he recognizes mistakes that he made. Everyone makes mistakes, but he has to show that genuine remorse in his ability to be a positive influence to correct the things that he did wrong publicly."
Now, who is this "community" that Roger Goodell speaks of? My community certainly believes he is remorseful and has paid the price for more than himself, alone. The only people you find asking for more are the people who think dogs are more valuable than humans. The above statement is proof the Roger Goodell wants to pile-on by publicly humiliating the man even more. He has been broken like no one before him. I say to Goodell, lay off. He has served his time, made his apologies and is due a fair chance. Reinstate him and if he screws up, again, use the tool you love and suspend him.
You don't have to agree with me. It's just how I feel.
Raider-Man, stay true to the game!
(I need a beer)
Monday, January 19, 2009
Time For Change
Hello fans,
It was a very troubling season for the Raiders, but they did please me by finishing strong. It seems things are lining up for a stronger 2009 season for the Raiders. I am and will continue to be positive in regards to the future of the team.
There are 3 people I pointed too as the main problem with the Raiders over the past 4 seasons. They were Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan and Al Davis assistants Jeff Birren and John Herrera. Well, Rob Ryan wanted the Head Coach job, but did not get it. He has decided to leave the Raiders to take a job with another team. That gets rid of one problem and leaves 2 more. Those 2 will have a harder time driving a wedge between the Head Coach, whomever is selected, and the rest of the team the way they (John Herrera) were able to with Art Shell and Lane Kiffen.
There are tons of coaches on the block, today. Free and clear. The latest...John Gruden. He and Al Davis parted on friendly terms in 2002 and the door to return is not locked (as proven in the rehire of Art Shell in the past). Personally, I would like to see that, but there is another, stronger, rumor lingering out there. It is former Raider Defensive Back coach, Terry Robiskie. He left, on good terms, after Art Shell was released. Talks have been scheduled with him and he has quietly assembled a staff of WILLING assistant coaches. Coaches who have stated that if he is hired by Al Davis, they will join him with the Raiders. If that happens, you will see a huge change in the swagger of the Raiders. You will see the fear in the eyes of Raider opponents, just like the Raiders of old. You will see the Raiders return to the top of the AFC West in 2009. The Raiders have the players, they need the leadership. Terry Robiskie will bring that to them. Let me know if you agree.
As for Big Al, if you think he has lost it. If you think he does not know football anymore. If you think he can no longer function as an owner. You are not looking at what is happening on the team. If he was out of touch, his right hand men (John Herrera and Jeff Birren) would have had Rob Ryan in position as Head Coach 3 seasons ago. Al is sharp enough to know that Rob Ryan, while being a top defensive coordinator, is not Head Coach material. If he was, he would have been. Everyone knows Al Davis likes to promote from within. The Lane Kiffen firing was more for personal reasons than business. Interim Head Coach, Tom Cable, is not the man for job. Yes, he produced wins over the Buccaneers, but they still lost to the Chargers. (What's your opinion?)
The Superbowl teams have been decided. The Cardinals and the Steelers. While I am not a Steeler fan (Big news) I will be pulling for the Steelers to win the Superbowl for two reasons. 1) They have a black Head Coach and 2) They have a BLACK Head Coach. On the other side, the Cardinals have to much in-fighting going on. A WR was caught on camera yelling at the Offensive Coordinator while he was trying to call plays during a drive in which they were losing by 2 points. He called the coach out of his name and you could see the coach tell him repeatedly, "Don't call me that. Don't you call me that." as his teammates were pulling him away from the coach. After the game, which they won, he along with other players decided not to participate in the celebration and trophy ceremony. Not the sign of a Superbowl winning team.
On the other game, there was a hit by a Steeler player on a Raven player in which both were hurt, but the Raven is in the hospital. What I am about to say may anger you, but it is how I feel. Both players are Black, yet White commentators are calling for a fine and suspension of the Steeler player for a helmet-to-helmet hit. Anyone who played the game knows that was not an intentional helmet shot. It was a textbook football hit. I agree with Cordell Stewart, former Steeler WR and QB. He stated the helmet hit controversy is the fault of NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell. He has brought attention to these hits in an effort to protect players. You, as a player are taught the proper, safe, way to make a tackle. The hit made in last nights game was exactly how you make that hit. It just happened to cause injury to the players. This will happen in football. What is worse is if players are fined and suspended for it they will become timid and not play at full speed, thus causing more injuries instead of less. We had decades of helmet hits by DB's with no complaint. Commentators constantly say defenders use the helmet as a weapon, but they do not speak of the running backs who do the same. I still see images of Earl Campbell using his head as a bull to aid in running thru a LB or CB or Safety. I did it Everyone I know who played did it. It it a natural thing. It is part of your safety equipment. It works great when you wear it properly. That is another story.
I have received tons of messages asking for the final Raider-Man blog. sorry to disappoint, but this blog will continue as long as the Raiders have a team. While the 2008 season is over for the Raiders, it will not end for football. Stop reading if you like, but I will continue to write. Who knows, I may even reveal who Raider-Man is, someday. But, just understand, as long as there is football, there will be a Raider-Man blog.
Until the 2009 Superbowl,
Raider-Man out!!!!
It was a very troubling season for the Raiders, but they did please me by finishing strong. It seems things are lining up for a stronger 2009 season for the Raiders. I am and will continue to be positive in regards to the future of the team.
There are 3 people I pointed too as the main problem with the Raiders over the past 4 seasons. They were Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan and Al Davis assistants Jeff Birren and John Herrera. Well, Rob Ryan wanted the Head Coach job, but did not get it. He has decided to leave the Raiders to take a job with another team. That gets rid of one problem and leaves 2 more. Those 2 will have a harder time driving a wedge between the Head Coach, whomever is selected, and the rest of the team the way they (John Herrera) were able to with Art Shell and Lane Kiffen.
There are tons of coaches on the block, today. Free and clear. The latest...John Gruden. He and Al Davis parted on friendly terms in 2002 and the door to return is not locked (as proven in the rehire of Art Shell in the past). Personally, I would like to see that, but there is another, stronger, rumor lingering out there. It is former Raider Defensive Back coach, Terry Robiskie. He left, on good terms, after Art Shell was released. Talks have been scheduled with him and he has quietly assembled a staff of WILLING assistant coaches. Coaches who have stated that if he is hired by Al Davis, they will join him with the Raiders. If that happens, you will see a huge change in the swagger of the Raiders. You will see the fear in the eyes of Raider opponents, just like the Raiders of old. You will see the Raiders return to the top of the AFC West in 2009. The Raiders have the players, they need the leadership. Terry Robiskie will bring that to them. Let me know if you agree.
As for Big Al, if you think he has lost it. If you think he does not know football anymore. If you think he can no longer function as an owner. You are not looking at what is happening on the team. If he was out of touch, his right hand men (John Herrera and Jeff Birren) would have had Rob Ryan in position as Head Coach 3 seasons ago. Al is sharp enough to know that Rob Ryan, while being a top defensive coordinator, is not Head Coach material. If he was, he would have been. Everyone knows Al Davis likes to promote from within. The Lane Kiffen firing was more for personal reasons than business. Interim Head Coach, Tom Cable, is not the man for job. Yes, he produced wins over the Buccaneers, but they still lost to the Chargers. (What's your opinion?)
The Superbowl teams have been decided. The Cardinals and the Steelers. While I am not a Steeler fan (Big news) I will be pulling for the Steelers to win the Superbowl for two reasons. 1) They have a black Head Coach and 2) They have a BLACK Head Coach. On the other side, the Cardinals have to much in-fighting going on. A WR was caught on camera yelling at the Offensive Coordinator while he was trying to call plays during a drive in which they were losing by 2 points. He called the coach out of his name and you could see the coach tell him repeatedly, "Don't call me that. Don't you call me that." as his teammates were pulling him away from the coach. After the game, which they won, he along with other players decided not to participate in the celebration and trophy ceremony. Not the sign of a Superbowl winning team.
On the other game, there was a hit by a Steeler player on a Raven player in which both were hurt, but the Raven is in the hospital. What I am about to say may anger you, but it is how I feel. Both players are Black, yet White commentators are calling for a fine and suspension of the Steeler player for a helmet-to-helmet hit. Anyone who played the game knows that was not an intentional helmet shot. It was a textbook football hit. I agree with Cordell Stewart, former Steeler WR and QB. He stated the helmet hit controversy is the fault of NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell. He has brought attention to these hits in an effort to protect players. You, as a player are taught the proper, safe, way to make a tackle. The hit made in last nights game was exactly how you make that hit. It just happened to cause injury to the players. This will happen in football. What is worse is if players are fined and suspended for it they will become timid and not play at full speed, thus causing more injuries instead of less. We had decades of helmet hits by DB's with no complaint. Commentators constantly say defenders use the helmet as a weapon, but they do not speak of the running backs who do the same. I still see images of Earl Campbell using his head as a bull to aid in running thru a LB or CB or Safety. I did it Everyone I know who played did it. It it a natural thing. It is part of your safety equipment. It works great when you wear it properly. That is another story.
I have received tons of messages asking for the final Raider-Man blog. sorry to disappoint, but this blog will continue as long as the Raiders have a team. While the 2008 season is over for the Raiders, it will not end for football. Stop reading if you like, but I will continue to write. Who knows, I may even reveal who Raider-Man is, someday. But, just understand, as long as there is football, there will be a Raider-Man blog.
Until the 2009 Superbowl,
Raider-Man out!!!!
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