A Near Win with Poor Timing
I’m not going to complain too loudly about this loss. I like our team this year. We’ve put a serious scare into two of the conference’s top teams over the past two weeks. Our defense is resurgent. Our offense is showing promise. I see building blocks where I haven’t seen them for years. I say: Keep Kiffin.
For the second week in a row, however, I’m mystified by our clock management (or lack thereof). At the end of the first half, we ran two plays over a span of 55 seconds. No two-minute offense, no hurry up, nothing. Only after the clock ticked down to one second did we call our final timeout—for the sake of attempting a 76-yard (!) field goal.
Well, if we were going to try a big kick like that, why not a two-minute offense with some quick outs to try to rip off another 10 or 20 yards to get into a more realistic range?
After all, this was a game where three points could have changed everything, and pissing away those potential three points at the end of the half is yet another time-management head scratcher, the latest in what has become an epidemic in
Is there some sort of invisible force field over Alameda that makes it impossible for the organization to install a simple two-minute offense? This has been going on for years, across several coaching regimes, and I just don't get it.
posted by Raider Take at 4:16 PM
89 Comments:
Yup...Well...what did we really expect from Jamarcus with 2 minutes left on the clock, with all three time outs left, down just three points!?! I mean if he couldnt put a half field drive together with an ending result touchdown all game long. We shouldnt kid ourself thinking he would all of sudden do it when we needed him the most to do it. Mega PEP Bust...
sure blame it on coaching, but when does execution kick in? especially when you were pick # 1 overall and paid 60 million?? when are we going to see that from this guy??
Take,
there's just no getting around it.
russell has to learn.
it's plain and simple. no matter who the coach is, russell is raw, and needs time to mature.
he should have been going through all this last season, but we all know the story of the holdout.
that holdout set him back, and set the entire team back, one full year.
i expect to see some improvement from russell over the last 8 games.
it's wait n see from here on.
Also, McFadden is ailing, and Bush is essentially an NFL rookie, and Fargas is out, so it's not like we're giving Russell a ton of support or options out of the backfield. And I don't need to tell anyone about the state of our receivers. I'm not saying Russell doesn't have a lot of room for improvement, but let's give him more time and more help before we write him off.
WTF...................
I am so ashamed right now as a fan. We could have clearly won this one, but yet again we let the other team catch wind and come from behind and win.
Lane its been great and great knowing ya. Onward to the next regime. Not that it will matter cause the next coach will do the same. Lofton, Ryan, Fassel who ever Al can get to commit
D. Hall is clearly worthless.
Great pick up Al. This one is on you buddy.
He Sucks........
Mr. Duva
I had high hopes for this team (with exception of Jamarcus starting this year) and do see building blocks, but realistically, its false hope with that guy being our QB, Kiffin leaving im sure sooner than latter,our young players having no real leader or leaders around them (a veteran or not)a crazy, no structure,disciplined environment, and all thanks to the ever presences of the elephant in the room, Fidel "Al" Castro...
A team like Kansas City who are in terms of "building" with a young squad and are only missing here and there players (especially a QB, which Walters will go there and bite us in the ass later)has an organization that dont mind change or switching things up to see what is considered a weak point on the team, instead of being stubborn and keeping false hope on one major component, like our QB.
Can't argue with the lament about poor clock management. Though our red zone execution the last 2 weeks has been horrendous, we're showing progress(remember the last few seasons of 3 and out?). When San Diego began to assert themselves in the second half, it was their experience that showed, a discipline and confidence that comes with time. Our team is young and will get better as long as we have some sort of stability. Phil Simms commented about visiting the Raiders last Friday and seeing an energized team focused on Sunday's game. It sounds to me that the players have not quit on their coach and, for the sake of the franchise, neither should Mr. Davis.
Both lines were gassed by the second half, SD got every break, we left it all on the field today folks... I liked the play calling better today, can't blame it all on the coaches... SD is still one of the elite teams in the NFL.
I am not embarrassed by this loss at all. A few more breaks and SD was toast. The fumble in the endzone bouncing right to Rivers for a safety instead of TD... Miller slipping on a wide open route for the go-ahead TD late... etc.
Kiffin deserves to stay.
This team is not that bad.
I think what we are seeing is a maturation of JaMarcus Russell that should have taken place last year, but couldn’t because of a lengthy holdout.
In the end, Russell had very little protection. Maybe we should have taken a couple more O-linemen in the draft instead of all those speedy CBs and track-star WRs.
Keep Kiffin? Absolutely!
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It sounds to me that the players have not quit on their coach
>>>>
The team played their hearts out for this game... if Al fires Kiffin now, I am joining the IAAFers.
This team is very close to being pretty damn good.
Both coaches seem to be maturing also... I only screamed at SOB one time today.. and that is when he got passive on Rivers key scramble on third down late. Well... and Hall playing off his guy 10 yards when it was third and five... although I don't know if that is a called play, or Hall being a complete moron.
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I think what we are seeing is a maturation of JaMarcus Russell that should have taken place last year, but couldn’t because of a lengthy holdout.
>>>
The key is he is ALLOWING him to make mistakes. That interception was a killer, and prolly cost us the game, but he needs to learn these things.
Baby steps...
Angelo Hall becuz theres no "D" in D angelo. That guy only got an INT because in part of Rivers, of a bad decision, and badly throwen ball, was in position to make that pick regardless, which my little nephew could of made as well.
Not the outcome I wanted, or even expected after a strong first half, but arguably our best game against the Chargers in a long time.
The play calling was much improved. The Specials teams looked great, with the exception of the final kick return coverage. The defense limited their mistakes, but as others have said, they ran out of gas.
Russell is definitely improving. His passes and decision making showed that practice is the key. He’s a quick learner and a hard working kid. He needs more time back there, and he made some rookie mistakes, but he threw passes today that filled me with hope.
With all the injuries we came into this game with, we showed a ton of heart.
I'm looking forward to our trip to the Big Easy!
And just in case Al checks in on our discussion, I love you Al, but you have to keep Kiffin.
I’m proud of this team. And as my friend (Chiefs fan) said Friday, I’ll fly the colors, win or lose.
That reminds me, and this is painful, congrats to the Chiefs on their win. It seems this conference isn’t as lopsided as the media would have us believe.
IMO, we have the makings of a true franchise QB. Russell showed his strong arm, accuracy and quick release today. Although, it's a shame Curry is still dropping critical passes.
Bush and McFadden are both outstanding receivers. Watching these two out of the backfield makes all Jordan's drops seem like a distant memory.
Oh, on the topic of past Raiders, can you imagine losing your starting job to Kerry F'n Collins? If Young was "sad" before, he must be crying himself to sleep!
Ok, am I the only one that doesn't understand the big deal with Kiffin's suspending Randy Hanson?
Pope,
i agree. for all we know this guy hanson is out to save his own backside by running to the press with the "truth".
who cares !!!!!!!
Hanson was bitching that Kiffin harps on the little things, the details.
He said he thinks the big picture is more important than the little things.
You have to do the little things to win, the minor details have to become second nature so that you can concentrate on the big things.
But you MUST do the little things.
Dude's gotta go. Of course, maybe Al makes hime HC, who knows?
My only concern with Al is I've heard people say he does not believe in team chemistry.
The pic was tipped. Atleast McFad tackled the guy.
Wish we would have ran some more.
Raider00,
So, we're saying Hansen is taking the "Don't Pass"? Maybe Al really is going to talk to the press monster, and since it could go either way in Hansen's mind, he's betting against the table...or in this case, the team. Dick move. I've found that's a good way to get beaten in Vegas. Javon, can you help us out on this one?
I'm betting the pass line. Al will speak to the press and Kiffin stays.
Here's one more gambling metaphor. It won't be easy, but I'm still betting the Hard 8 (8-8).
Go Raiders!
I watched a team who competed, played with heart & effort, and is showing improvements and promise.
I have been encouraged from what I've seen of some of our young, developing players JLH, Miller, Russell, Bush, McFadden (when healthy), Ricky Brown, Branch on special teams. No one has quit on Kiffin or Ryan.
Of course in our bottom line society, it is just another "L" which unfortunately will probably lead to the firing of Kiffin.
It is sad, IMO, because I truly beieve we are right on the cusp of turning the corner.
I have been reviewing the game in my mind and I hate to say this which might rub some of you as being over simplistic but ...
This entire game pivoted on 1 play and 1 play only.
The attempted screen to Run DMc which was tipped at the line and intercepted had a MAJOR impact on momentum and ultimately the final outcome.
Why do I think this 1 play altered the landscape so dramatically? Think about it ...
We are up 15 to 3 with less than 4:00 to go in the 3rd quarter. DHall picks off Rivers. We drive the ball from the SD 38 to SD 27. We are well within SeaBass range and quickly approaching the dead zone (umm I mean Red Zone).
18 to 3 minimum or possibly 22 to 3 are well within our grasp. Up by 15 or up by 19 with a quarter to play. I wish this play could be erased because it came at such a critical time in the game.
Oh well, after 1 blowout, 1 W, and 2 heartbreakers, I think we (the fans) all need a bye just as badly as the team! Keep your chin up Raider fans.
Pope,
yeah, i'd love to see what the raiders looked like after 5 years of kiffin as HC.
i hope al comes out and says "kiffin is my coach, end of story".
but that never happens in raiderland.
i must be dreamin'
well i must admit.... not being a russell guy at first, i was totally against him being drafted. but he IS showing some good improvement week to week. this team as a whole is young. they need time to develop. in listening to thomas howard on the post-game wrap, NO-ONE in that locker room is paying attention to the chaos happening outside the team. sounds like there IS team unity. again "sounds like". which hopefully is a good sign that hopefully things aren't that bad, that alvin knows that this is a young team with a young coach that is still learning. am i wishing for the stars or will we have another coach and another system for russell to learn?
this was a good game against a very good team. we were missing a lot of horses and some of our horses are playing hurt.
does alvin see any of this?
i hope he lets kiffin coach and coach this team for a very long time. we can all see that it's coming together. the way this team has been playing the last 2 weeks after that opening blowout is very encouraging.
but its on alvin to let that happen.
Great take Calico. I wish everyone else was here to join in until the media distracts us with more foolishness!
Bring me Al's press conference, the bye week, and a trip to New Orleans.
Come to think of it, I might have to make that trip and see us turn the corner in person!
Calico,
i'm not so sure i buy the 1 play lost the game thinking.
there was also green's holding call that erased a TD.
henderson's whiff block that led to russell, blindside sack/fumble, deep in our own territory.
SD got a TD from this turnover.
the miller slip at goal line which appeared would have been a TD pass.
there were many chances missed in this game, IMO.
Raider00,
That TD pulled back on the hold was a tough one to swallow.
I think to Calico's point, it was the moment that stands out because this team doesn't recover once the momentum shifts. It's a sign of youth and inexperience. But, had we held strong on that drive, it might have shifted too late for the Chargers.
It sure was nice to see ol' Norv sh*tting bricks, even if it didn't last.
00 - I agree. All those plays were important in contributing to this heartbreaking loss, but the play Calico mentions was the biggest. It was HUGE! 18-3 or 22-3 might have been all the cushion the Raiders needed.
By the way, does anyone know why Sam Williams was in there just in time to miss a tackle that cost the Raiders a stop on the Sproles two point conversion? Was the ST unit in there instead of the first string D?
I'm not sure what this is, but it's crap. I'm tired of how our team is ran as an organization. I'm tired of how our coaches have no sense of game management, and I'm tired of how our team "gases out" in the 4th Quarter. I'm tired of playing "Not-to-lose", instead of punching the other in the face. I'm tired of "so-close-to-a-win", instead of playing 4 Quarters of football and taking a win. I'm tired of this garbage.
what i'd like to know is how come this team isn't in shape? i thought this was a year-round sport. the off season was supposed to be a small break but then the players are supposed to work out and already be in shape when they report so there wouldn't be any lag time getting caught up. these aren't the 60's or 70's where players get fat in the off-season then work it off during camp. this puts teams on notice to be patient because the game'll be won in the 4th quarter.
Several players, Sands comes to mind, did show up to camp out of shape, but some players were still recovering from injury - Kelly comes to mind. Really, there's no excuse. These guys are getting paid annual salaries, not part-time.
So I don't think you can pin our 4th quarter collapses entirely on the coaches. It shouldn't take us a quarter of the season to get into "game shape."
Rams' coach was fired this morning. The press is waiting for word from Oakland.
Agree on the 2nd quarter clock issues. Hall has made huge improvements since Denver game--Ryan has him in press coverage more often and he's better at that even if he didn't play it much in ATL. If you're looking for a defensive scape goat look no further than Huff---out of position on all three SD TDs...the sooner Branch is 100% the better. We just need to make more first downs...it'll happen
ann killion seems to almost defend kiffin in this one:
http://www.mercurynews.com/sportsheadlines/ci_10584902?nclick_check=1
We are in desperate need of a play making receiver. Walker catches the ball (that gives him a nod over Pan Hands Curry) but he seems to be running routes at 60% the rest of the time. Johnny Lee is the only receiver who has stepped up into the rhelm of consistency. Without that down after down threat at the wideout position it will be hard for this team to really stretch the field like they are trying so hard to do.
anon, why is it so hard for people to understand that?
they say open up the offense for this QB with the bazillion dollar arm?
well? are you and i the only ones to figure that out?
I mean call me old fashion (but please dont call me blandarocked AKA BOZOrocked) i liked it when coaches used common sense when a player is not performing to supposedly their "potential" they should be benched and put in a veteran in his place so he can learn from the bench some more and or light up a fire within him (uhum Mega Pep) to win back his position. and by veteran i dont mean Tui, although he might do better still than Russell (he can at least see what the defense gives u and if nothing he runs for those first downs) but put in Walters I tell ya.
I mean the guy only has a chip on his shoulder about how he once was consider to be developed for this teams future star QB, before the whole Brooks, Collins, Mc Cown,and Cullpeper,and now Russell, and has something to prove. I mean he has handled it better than most in his situation. he was even asked some short time ago before the season started this year, why he is taking it so well. and he said that he is not worried about it as much when Mc cown, and Cullpeper and trades talks were during that time becuz one day he will have his time like Rich Gannon did, Kurt Warner, Marc Bulger, Tony Romo, etc. and will have his opportunity either here or elsewhere (hope not to one of rivals scary thought) I mean the guys have all the tools and attitude of a pro that is not being babied (like other high profile flunkies, Uhum MEGA PEP go be friends with Vince young soon!!)I cant help not to forget the time Walters came in a game in Balitimore, down by so much becuz of wack ass Brooks and our depleted sqaud at the time (offsive line giving up how many sacks that year) and brought us back almost to vicotory from behind, in Baltimore, against ravens defense, and him as a rookie putting together drives and scores like a true pro, almost like veteran like QB. He has the "it" factor and fundamentals down.
what he didnt have since then was an offesive line, effective running game (Jordan) a real head coach, etc. and since that game he was looked over when we brought in washed up QB's and an over rated, hype QB from College, and never given a REAL shot at it. and the times he had to prove himself in was when either the few times he had snaps in games where we never had true protection from the offensive lines or even during his preseason games he will even get sold out by his wide receivers (most of which where second team types) selling him out on routes or even dropping balls, that some how was translated in him not doing well in his passing abilities, incredible really.. ahhhhh Davis sucks he cant really see talent even if it hit him on his goofy ass walker he uses now.
I don't have a lot of time today, but I wanted to get in some thoughts about Kiffin.
Since coming aboard last year, Kiffin has now demonstrated that there are two NFL staff positions in which he can currently excel. Unfortunately, neither of those positions happen to be Head Coach. Kiffin would make far better than average Director of College Scouting. He would likely make a brilliant QB Coach (giving credit for the remarkable work he's done with Russell).
Kiffin's mistakes as a Head Coach because of his inexperience are becoming legion. Here are a few…
Kiffin created his own trouble with the firing controversy by not simply blowing off the questions as in-house issues and refusing to discuss them. If indeed Davis has discussed the firing of Kiffin behind closed doors, Davis is more than entitled to do so. After the performance against Denver, Davis would have been remiss as an owner if he didn't at least consider pulling the trigger on Kiffin. And Davis should certainly be able to talk behind closed doors with advisors without having to come before the microphone to discuss everything that he considers with the media.
Kiffin has the constant tendency to disregard weapons on the field because of whatever feeling he's happening to experience at the time. Kiffin's use of Javon Walker reeks of the Shell/Porter situation - only worse. Porter was not yet earning the big contract that Walker is now, and Porter openly displayed disrespect to his coaches. Walker reportedly showed at camp on the heavy side, was beat up in Vegas, and then considered retirement. I can't defend Walker's judgment or psychology, but his talent remains. While Walker went unused in the first two games because of a hamstring pull, in the subsequent games having Walker catch the first few passes and then having him disappear for the rest of the game is mystifying. I haven't noticed Walker tanking it on his routs, but if he doing so it might be because he doesn't expect to see the ball anyway.
When Kiffin was schooled by Shanahan last season by icing Jano, Kiffin showed that he might be a quick study when he did the same thing to the Browns, in exactly the same context, one week later. But what Kiffin did with almost a minute left on the clock against SD was jaw dropping. With two time outs, and more than fifty seconds, Kiffin chose to run a lackadaisical offense until the clock dropped under 40 seconds. Then he let the time expire, all the way down to 1 second before calling his last time out - IN ORDER TO KICK A 74 YARD FIELD GOAL.
What he did last week, with the game on the line, looked confused at best. With Buffalo in range for the winning field goal (which would have given Buffalo a 2 point lead) Kiffin failed to use his timeouts to allow Russell one final chance to show off his arm. Instead, Kiffin let the clock expire to one second - IN ORDER TO ICE THE KICKER on a relatively easy field goal. The proper strategy was to keep as much time on the clock as possible. Even if Buffalo had gotten a first down and the Raiders ran out of timeouts, the strategy should have been to allow Buffalo the TD. If they had scored the TD with (say) 35 to 45 seconds left, that would have put Buffalo up by 5 points, leaving at least the possibility that Russell could connect on a TD pass and still win the game in regulation time.
Both of these on-the-field mistakes show that Kiffin is not adequately doing what he says he wants to do - put the team in a position to win.
If Davis fires Kiffin during the bye week, that firing is justified. Whether Davis will indeed pull that trigger, we don't yet know. But I still feel that this season is salvageable, but probably not with Kiffin at the helm.
"I haven't noticed Walker tanking it on his routs, but if he doing so it might be because he doesn't expect to see the ball anyway." this is a garbage statement...did you not see this fool not break from his rout when Jamarcus was flushed out of the pocket towards the sideline and he just stood there for like what was forever and didnt even try to run to an open area togive him a chance at a throw,(at least Mega PEP did the right thing that time to just throw away the ball)
"Kiffin failed to use his timeouts to allow Russell one final chance to show off his arm." since he wasnt doing it all game long and and take a chance with a fumble or an INT from his very unaccurate "arm"
"If Davis fires Kiffin during the bye week, that firing is justified. Whether Davis will indeed pull that trigger, we don't yet know. But I still feel that this season is salvageable, but probably not with Kiffin at the helm."
not surprising statment since BOZO here is a Al Davis balls swinger and passing the blame on the coach, rahter than on the execution on part of mostly the offsensive players and the lack of players (real talented players we passed up on for like Walker) kiffin doesnt have, especially with that bust of players like MEGA PEP
Jones, my appologies for getting you mixed up with the Ano who is still using Ano. This is the same biggot that was here last season and didn't want Russell because of the Limbaugh philosophy.
Anybody who can watch Russell this season should be sure that Russell is everything we could have hoped for and more.
So again, Jones, my appologies. I get annoyed with your name calling, but you're (as far as I know) nothing like the moron above.
According to Jerry McDonald, Kiffin has just done what he should have done four weeks ago.
"Anybody who can watch Russell this season should be sure that Russell is everything we could have hoped for and more." again garbage...what so all of sudden we run a soup kitchen in Alameda? please how much was this guy payed?
BR, you ever listen to Limbaugh?
Where I'm from, we call that slander.
It'd be nice if you'd leave the politics off of this board.
---Jeff
arkansas, yeah...
"Sorry to say this, I don't think he's been that good from the get-go," Limbaugh said. "I think what we've had here is a little social concern in the NFL. The media has been very desirous that a black quarterback do well. There is a little hope invested in McNabb, and he got a lot of credit for the performance of this team that he didn't deserve. The defense carried this team."
Politics has nothing to do with it.
Folks popped off because he called it like he saw it. Does that make him racist? Or, more likely, does that make him a whistle-blower on the press's racism?
In no way does he belong in the same sentence with the bigots (many of whom live on my block) who are angry about the fact that a black quarterback even exists.
Check yourself, bro. You're way out of line.
---Jeff
Ahmen Arkansan Raider....
I'm guessing Al prolly told Kiffin he could keep his job this year if he stopped making him look bad in the press. I don't think that is too much to ask. I think the bottom line is that the players are rallying around Kiffin, and Al has always been a player-first owner, so his job is prolly secure for the rest of the year. I think he still needs to find a way to win 8 games this year to fill out his contract though.
Maybe the Raiders would make a better hockey team???... I firmly think they could win the SB if they only had to play three quarters.
I guess that is what happens with the combination of a no-depth, inexperienced players, and an inexperienced HC (and SOB always finding a knack to play not to lose).
I'm hoping the coming cooler weather will help us. The difference of both lines between the second quarter and the fourth are like night and day.
McNabb has earned his position. He's had up and down moments like every QB in the league, but generally he's been stellar.
Defend Limbaugh all you want, the comment was racist. It wasn't prompted by anything the media did.
And I stopped checking myself on calling out racism a long time ago.
Jeff... just mentioning the word "Limbaugh" wasn't bringing politics into anything... well until you made a stink about it.
I think we all knew what Blanda was talking about.
BR, you cheapen the term by calling him a racist.
REAL racism exists, and you call HIM a racist?
No offense, dude, but that's just wrong. All of the name calling in the world isn't going to make him a racist--I've listened to him, and I know he isn't.
At the time, McNabb was very clearly not all that. And the press WAS puffing him up. At the time, Limbaugh's comment was accurate.
It would be exactly analogous to saying that DeAngelo Hall is a crappy CB that has gotten overly-favorable press... Wait. That's already happened, too...
---Jeff
No, Gary, that's untrue.
Calling Limbaugh a racist is bringing politics into this.
Limbaugh had nothing to do with the conversation until BR brought him up, and it's typical of the left wing/right wing debate for someone to bring that up about him.
If you want to discuss the particular Ano poster and THAT person's bigoted comments, that's a different story. Heck, if you want to talk about Jimmy the Greek or Howard Cosell, that's something else entirely, as well.
Limbaugh is always a target because of his politics and his strength on the radio. Folks LOVE to take potshots at him because of his politics.
Fact is, it was a political comment.
---Jeff
Jeff, whatever else you might want to say about me, you cannot argue that my opinions are not my own, or that I in any way distance myself from my own beliefs.
Limbaugh make a very particular point of walking very close to racist commentary. That's one way he stays popular, by raising controversial stakes. He's not a hero, he's a money maker.
He has placed himself in the position of being called a racist to build his ratings because people will tune in to controversy.
You might be able to successfully convince me that Limbaugh is not really racist, he just walks close to that line for dramatic effect but, to me, the use of race to raise controversy in order to make money is racist in and of itself.
Again, politics (i.e., liberal vs. conservative) has nothing to do with it. It is my view of the world. It is not my label.
If I come out and say that there are some folks who badly want a black QB to succeed so they can sell papers, how is that a racist comment?
Wouldn't it rather be pointing out the press's racism?
That's why I don't get that whole flap over him. It's ridiculous.
Well, we've talked enough about this, it ain't Raider football we're talkin' about.
Just please be careful about who you call racist. It's kind of like the term "sexual harassment." It's easy to say it without it being true, and very hard to prove either way. And gets used so much that it ceases to have any meaning.
JMHO
---Jeff
Blanda - did you really write, “the strategy should have been to allow Buffalo the TD?” That doesn’t seem like sound clock management to me. Like many of us, Kiffin probably expected the D to continue to bring it to the Bills, only to find Ryan sleeping at the switch. Kiffin quickly learned from that “mistake” and opened it up in the second half against SD, only to find that the O-line wasn’t up to the task.
I will say Ryan kept the pressure coming a bit late in the Chargers game, but players seemed gassed by the 4th qtr. Doesn’t anybody workout in the off-season - besides Burgess? There were some 3-man fronts late in the game, which obviously does not work for us.
If Kiffin is to be fired, then wouldn’t last January have been a better time to do it? Not 4 games into the season in which the Raiders are clearly getting better.
Honestly, when will we find continuity in coaching? Kiffin is our best chance. When his staff all leaves next year, as they almost certainly will, Kiffin can still be here to represent the brain trust of any foundation we establish this season.
For those who want Lofton as HC now, what are his qualifications besides former (HOF) player and WR coach? From where I sit, he has failed the Raiders as WR coach.
It looks like Kiffin is here to stay. His refusal to discuss meetings between Lane and Al Davis speaks volumes. They've talked, and Kiffin listened. And at least for this season, Lane will be around.
But this is something that I've been meaning to say, but keep forgetting. THE OAKLAND RAIDERS PROUDLY DISPLAY THEIR COLORS AT HOME GAMES! What's with this road jersey BS?
Lane, it might help you a bit to learn some Raider tradition.
Blanda,
I'm surprised to see you so hard on Kiffin and our boys this week. Hell, even Scorpio is coming around on Russell. ;)
Goddamn BSPN sideline reporter during MNF is bringing up Kiffin of coarse.
So apparantly Al is interviewing 3 replacement candidates as we speak.
I don't know why I even bother bringing it up since I stopped caring about our coaching situation. It seems we'll just continue to make the same stupid mistakes no matter who's the guy 'responsible'.
Psycho
I like the black home jersey, but I also like the idea of keeping the players a little cooler in the road whites. Miami did that to us a few years ago, and it seemed to work to their advantage.
I hope that Jmarco Busto is watching tonites game and taking notes on what a rookie Qb that has the confidence and basic fundamentals, that go a long way on producing drives like 1st Yr ROOKIE Flaco is doing so far. and he was picked what round for how much? and was throwen into the fire to go and start after boller got hurt.
Jamrco Busto reminds me of a 3rd string QB that has a hang over from the night before a game not worrying that he will be seeing any play time the next day. but the 1st and 2nd string go down and his # is called up and he is shitty bricks and it shows in his body language and like he has forgotten all his play call routs and his basic QB moving techniques. Busto has no awarness, basic QB fundamentals, and accuracy. you see those things should be expected from a rookie no matter how high he was drafred or not. what is forgiven or allowed for rookie mistakes is to ints from not recongnizing different defense formations or coverages and from time to time throwning an int. also not allowed is forcing unecessary passes to tight coverages or throwin OFF BALANCE. ahhhh i can go on and on these things are taught since pop warner and if you pick a guy like Jamarco Busto that high in the draft it is because he plays or is expected to play a higher level usual 1st yr rookie.......
Raider 00:
I respect your opinion about other key plays influencing the game's final outcome. I'm not so nieve to suggest in a game with 131 plays that 1 play alone wins or loses a game.
My point was that the tipped INT had the BIGGEST impact of all the key plays due to the game situation, time on the clock, and the score at the time. This play created the biggest shift in momentum. This play deflated the Raiders and gave SD brand new life.
In regards to the plays you mentioned:
"there was also green's holding call that erased a TD."
Yeah but rewind the game a few plays and we were kicking a FG. It was a bad penalalty by SD on 4th down that gave us a new set of downs. Ultimately we got (3 pts.) what we deserved.
"henderson's whiff block that led to russell, blindside sack/fumble, deep in our own territory. SD got a TD from this turnover."
No doubt this was a huge play. However this play happened after the tipped INT. Would this play be as significant if we were up 18 to 3 or 22 to 3 at the time? No.
"the miller slip at goal line which appeared would have been a TD pass."
True. It looked like Miller was breaking open before slipping. This ball had plenty of mustard on it and I'm not so sure it was on target ... of course we will never know since Miller slipped. Once again, this play happened after the tipped INT. I'm not convinced that we would have even needed this play if the above mentioned play never happened.
The above perspective is just my humble opinion. Frankly it doesn't matter who is "right" or "wrong". I just wanted to share my view on how the failed screen attempt seemed to play such a huge role in giving SD life instead of the Raiders getting the KO punch.
One side note:
Is it just me or does Russell seem to have difficulties with executing the screen pass. We have seen an unusual amount of botched screen plays in only 4 games. His timing and mechanics seems to be off on these relatively safe, easy to execute plays.
To Anon who is like a broken record about "mega Pep", "Jamarco Bust" etc ...
No one with any football intelligence is remotely buying any of your ridiculous rants. Give it a rest. You are a 1 trick pony. You are not funny, smart, mature, or insightful.
Your "arguments" for why Russell should be replaced are so foolish that I won't waste too much time on it.
If you want to join the grown ups table and not look so foolish, you might seriously consider the novelty of using rationale thought.
"One side note:
Is it just me or does Russell seem to have difficulties with executing the screen pass. We have seen an unusual amount of botched screen plays in only 4 games. His timing and mechanics seems to be off on these relatively safe, easy to execute plays."
Thank you Calico thats what i fail to express with my broken english here from time to time. I ve been noticing his miserable basic QB mechanics and those dump off pass (although sometimes pressured or tipped balls are some what to blame for mishaps) but he has no touch or accuracy to go with that big arm for those kinds of plays or for timing routs as well.
If you want to join the grown ups table and not look so foolish, you might seriously consider the novelty of using rationale thought.
rationale thought?? sure... just because you cant bring yourself to believe (what you are already seeing from jamarco)that he has so many issues or areas to improve on which he should of had down before he got here and hey what a better place to learn and start in the NFL .... give me a break please! face it and admit it...or what is it with you like BOZOrocked ...delusional or dumb?
See link below...
http://www.profootballtalk.com/category/rumor-mill/
F@ck Pride! we need solutions.
Firing Kiffin how does that help?
Players are backing this guy up, even on the defensive side,who generally deal with Rob Ryan more and has gotten disapproval from Kiffin towards him (and not to the defensive players unless its Angelo which can be understandable)
Jamarco learnings curve or being at least 2-2(really should be 3-1)by the bye week? I dont blame everything on this guy, but hey no ever said that games come down to your field general kicker???
Play calling...you know if its not working one way try another way and be creative when there is room for it (no end around plays that can hault drives) and hey whats wrong with simple in and out plays to sideline, quick slants, defender playing way off receiver, audible quick pass out to him, screen plays and just dont be so predictiable...etc.
owner of Raiders Al Davis...
too much pride, not willing to let go, admit the game for how simple it can be broken down still to this day, he no longer has the positive influence for people the way he used to purely stubborn. its ok grandpa we know what you mean but hey its 2008 not 1908 alot has changed. and like technology changes, football does too.
F@ck pride it gets in way to much in the way for success, why must we keep grinding away at something that doesnt work.
Jerry McDonald is reporting that Kiffin is going to be fired.
I don't know what good it's going to do... no stability with the headcoach isn't the way to put a winning season together.
I like Kiffin and I honestly think he's got the Raiders headed in the the right direction, which is something I haven't thought, felt or said since Gruden left. Yes he's made some mistakes, but so has Ryan and so have the players and yes so has Al Davis. Nobody is exempt.
I hope it not true, I really hope it's not true. But with Jerry Mac reporting it... it gives the rumor a bit more gravitas.
And I'm completely late to the Rush conversation and it seems BR's comment has been deleted (or I'm blind) but I view his comments regarding McNabb along the same lines of what the Mayor of Fort Mill Danny Funderburk said. Was it out and out racist? Probably not, but it certainly was inappropriate and leaves a bad taste...
Kiffin is the next Chucky, be it the one in Denver or the one in Tampa, if Al cuts him, I think he'll regret it. The team played well.
"henderson's whiff block that led to russell, blindside sack/fumble, deep in our own territory. SD got a TD from this turnover."
I believe it was Harris, not Henderson. I don't think Henderson was playing.
Kiffin watch today! Replacing Kiffin will only set us back again. If he is to be replaced by one of his own (Cable, Knapp) then that's no smarter than replacing Gruden with Callahan... the team will continue on auto pilot until it finally implodes.
Kiffin is the brains behind bringing these guys to Oakland. IMO, Kiffin is a micro-manager who sees the big picture. That's a rare combination.
Well, at least we're not the Rams...
Psycho
On Hackett...
http://www.ibabuzz.com/
raidersblog/2008/07/11/hackett-set-to-join-raiders/
I'll take a Callahan-type success anytime, if we are going to compare replacement coaches.
One disaster year and one SB visit? No problem.
Hackett is a "horizontal offense" guy? That doesn't sound like an Al hire to me.
I have no idea what is going on right now, but it sure seems kinda bizarre.
As the Silver and Black turns...
>>>>
CJ: One side note:
Is it just me or does Russell seem to have difficulties with executing the screen pass
>>>>
It's not just you, and its killing us. How do you keep a defense honest if you can't complete the screen play with any regularity? I don't think its a coincidence that our offense has gotten sacked so many times the last 55 years when we haven't had a single QB that can complete the screen pass. Well.. I take that back,
Collins had a nice touch on them, but Jordan agonizingly kept dropping all of the key ones.
I meant 5 years... it just feels like 55. lol
i am dreaming, but who's to say that i can't dream. my dream is about al's press conference; and it involves the announcement that he is selling the team, so his legacy as an innovator is not tarnished.
i know it's a dream, let me dream.
Calico, regarding Russell's poor form on some of the screens. I say some of the screens, because he looks fine on some. I think the problem is when he checks all the way down to finally deciding on the dump off in the backfield. He doesn't realize he's out of time. Then suddenly he's rushed and attempts to avoid the sack by dumping off in the backfield.
Regarding what ESPN says as to Davis interviewing new head coaches. According to Corcoran these are department heads and normally scheduled to meet with Davis. Just because these people are showing up at Davis' office does not mean they are interviewing to be the new head coach.
But if Davis is going to fire Kiffin, he's going to do it today before the team has to start working to prepare for NO. If Kiffin is not fired today, expect him to be here for the rest of the season.
I suspect this is more of ESPN jumping the gun. The reason I suspect that is because it appears that Davis and Kiffin have talked. I don't think that Kiffin just up and decided on Monday that he wasn't going to challenge Davis nor be harsh on the players to the press. Davis apparently told Kiffin how he wanted Kiffin to start handling press conferences. Davis wouldn't have bothered if he was going to fire him.
BR, where's your source on that? Everyone, including Oakland beatwriters, are saying that Al and Kiffin did talk via the phone, and Kiffin was fired.
Again, I am dreaming that the conference is to announce the "significant" move that Al is selling the team.
Kiffin is fired. AL to speak at 5 Eastern.
Wowsers.
Raiders make it official: Kiffin is gone
By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer
Tuesday, September 30th, 2008 at 11:01 am in Oakland Raiders
The Raiders issued the following press release Tuesday:
Lane Kiffin has been released as head coach of The Oakland Raiders for cause. The Raiders will address the media a 2 p.m. this afternoon at the team’s permanent facility in Alameda.
you got your wish blanda.
now your boy russell is really gonna get screwed up. so much for a $60 mil investment. ruined by an owner who sadly doesn't have a clue.
Brilliant! Let's try this again with yet another unproven coach or retread. No established HC will work for Al Davis and the Raiders.
Will the next "yes man" please stand up... or should that be "bend over."
It might as well be Rob Ryan. He's the ultimate yes man, and he's Al's boy. Pucker up, Rob!
i hope kiffin sings like a bird and exposes all of this organization's dirty laundry. it's time for the rest of the country to see what davis is - a meddling owner out of touch with today's NFL. with davis controlling what kiffin can and cannot do, the guy never had a chance.
as long as this guy lives, there will be no championship of any kind. how long will you people be blinded by this man? in the meantime, we fans get screwed yet again. brace yourselves for next year, when alvin hires his next coach. what an absolute joke this organization has become!
F-YOU ALVIN DAVIS!
Freekin' swell.
I hope he has the presence of mind to keep Cable.
---Jeff
Is always better to resolve not dissolve.
Its disappointing that we cannot build stability nor change the culture of losing even though we were headed in the right direction. We must improve in scouting and drafting.
For the first time since during the Shell disaster i am seeing a collective loss of enthusiasm and defeatist attitude among the fans. It sucks because we the fans deserve better.
Whats next?
Roberto
Raider Raza
Well, the media finally got what they were asking for since Janary. Current rumor is the new HC is Tom Cable.
Life goes on.
H
I wish all of the coaches, staff, and players quit and see what the old man can do. I can't imagine why anybody would want to coach the Raiders under Davis. I won't do it, even if it's for a trillion dollars a year. Al Davis is the sole failure of the Raiders.
Everyone in the NFL knows that the Raiders job is the most chaotic and most undesirable job in football. I mean, does anyone remember that USC assistant Steve Sarkisian rejected that job? A college assistant rejecting an NFL job? That's the lowest of lows. Al just wants a yes-man and that is something he wont be able to find if he expects winning seasons.
This is a pure speculation on my part. If Tom Cable is named the new Head Coach, I bet he requested a General Manager as well. I bet Davis accomplishes that and names Paul Hackett as the new General Manager, if Cable is named Head Coach.
The HC list is short:
Tom Cable
Greg Knapp
Rob Ryan
James Lofton
Take your pick, your guess is as good as mine too. It won't really matter because it will not change until Al Davis is no longer General Managing Partner.
Kiffin made his own bed. If you are going to challenge your boss in public, you're going to pay a price. Is that not true at your job?
My problems with Kiffin include his refusal to run a complete offense because of his assertion that he doesn't have a complete team. You can't win if you self edit half your game plan. You have to find a way to work around your perceived weaknesses without eliminating portions of your offense.
What we have to thank Kiffin for is his development of Russell and McFadden. I think the work he did there will pay large dividends. It's a shame he won't be around to see it.
What I won't miss is Kiffin holding everyone accountable but himself.
While it's being reported that Cable is the new HC, I have problems with Cable. His only HC experience is at the college level which was not overly successful.
I think Ryan would be the much better choice. Many have complained about the way that Rob runs his defense, but I think the Head Coaches have a lot more say over what Rob does than they let on. Besides, bumping Rob to HC removes him as Defensive Coordinator and gives that job to Martindale (who I'd like to see as a DC). There is no questioning Ryan's leadership ability.
Also, according to one of the reports I read, the meetings last night weren't called as coaching assignment interviews, they were called so Al could gather the opinions of the remaining coaching staff. In other words, he wanted to see if the assistants would back Kiffin. Apparently he found out that they wouldn't.
My vote is for Greg Knapp. He's the most ready. Plus being the play-caller recently he can make the smoothest transition into running the offense, while letting Ryan continue to screw things up on the defensive side. Knapp has been kind of a Co-Head Coach anyways.
Not that it really matters. Let the Benny Hill theme song commence!
Psycho {Running around really fast being chased by bikini chicks}
does it really matter who the coach is folks?
this organization is a freakin' joke.
A new take is up, come on over.
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