Cowboys Gameday Thread
Happy Thanksgiving, amigos. I'm thankful for the opportunity to steward Raider Take (eight years strong!) and to be a part of the community that YOU have all created here.
The theme of today's game is "surprise, surprise," because that's what it's going to take for us to contain the Cowboys. If we play the type of defense we did last Sunday, we are going to get absolutely smoked by Romo & Co. So we need to change it up and step it up fast, and keep this season from circling the drain. GO RAIDERS!
The theme of today's game is "surprise, surprise," because that's what it's going to take for us to contain the Cowboys. If we play the type of defense we did last Sunday, we are going to get absolutely smoked by Romo & Co. So we need to change it up and step it up fast, and keep this season from circling the drain. GO RAIDERS!
posted by Raider Take at 9:32 AM
108 Comments:
prevent defense urrgh don't you love it
keep it up in the second half raiders
McGloin is the way to go, boy just needs some time and WR's.
How weird is it that after we acquire a QB that can get first downs and sustain drives, our defense gets weaker?
We really are just a few plays away from having a different record. Which coming into this season I think is a win.
Happy Turkey Day!!!
Angelic Raider
Defense looks tired and worn out. Lack of talent really showed today. Lack of confidence is hurting the D right now. I don't think they know if they can stop anyone anymore. That is not a good feeling and they need a good game to snap them out of it. DB's are hurting bigtime now. Burnett is beat up, top 3 Cb's are hurt bad...D-line is looking tired/lack of depth.
O was looking really good, McGloin is a gunslinger, need to open it up more with him. Holmes, looking AllPro today.
Not enough Horses today, short week, lack of depth hurt.
JONES
McGloin and Holmes made it a game. For the INT, I hated to see Ford put in a jump ball situation like that instead of Holmes, who's probably 6 inches taller than Ford and had played so well.
Otherwise, the Raiders D just tired in the second half.
Another winnable game.
It still boils down to the Raiders making strides over the next four games, then having a solid off-season.
I think it's funny that 'fans' are screaming for Allen and Reggie to get fired.
2 starters on the Defense from the year before. a QB who was undrafted and playing in his 1st games of his career. An O-line that has been in shambles, Wr's who can hardly catch. A new Offensive coaching staff...yet, this team has been in all but 2 games this year. Easily could have a .500 record....the 'experts' said this team wouldn't win a game....some 'fans' have poor perspective.
JONES
The more I think of it, people are bitching, do they not realize that under the circumstances, it could be MUCH WORSE? Reggie has done an amazing job just to field a roster that is half decent.
If the GM had been a loser, imagine the lineup, Reggie has brought in quality with little time or money. The roster had NOTHING to it. All the dead weight is DOING NOTHING THROUGHOUT THE NFL.
Coaching a roster that was thrown together, with a undrafted QB...imagine if the players were not buying in, imagine if the Front Office was still a joke and the players brought in were low quality people and players....imagine that cluster f*%@....it could be a lot worse.
This team has been in almost all the games, if the talent was better, vet QB, good O-line....imagine, this team would be a playoff team. So no, the coaches do not need to be fired, the GM doesn't need to be fired and Mark doesn't have to act like his Dad.....ahhh, that's better.
JONES
When the Raiders were rolling in the 2nd quarter, converting on 3rd downs, it was interesting and effective how the WRs were used.
Both Holmes and Streater were running 15-20 yard routes where back shoulder and "jump ball" passes were thrown by McGloin using these WRs strengths (size, jumping abilities).
McGloin was trusting his WRs to make the grabs and for the most part, they came through for him.
The jump ball to Ford in the corner of the end zone by McGloin was a bad decision. The botched center-QB exchange gifted the Cowboys a TD. Getting steamrolled in the 2nd half stung.
In the last 4 games of 2013, I would like to see continued development of some of the younger players such as Rivera, Holmes, Streater, McGloin, Sio and competitive spirit demonstrated by the team as a whole.
For my money, McGloin is the guy until proven otherwise. For me, the best play of yesterday's game was McGloin's pass to Holmes on a slant with McGloin first looking off defenders on a screen. Most Raiders QBs during the past 10 years couldn't even pull that off. They need to watch the WR through the pattern before delivering the ball.
This team may be struggling right now but they are also maturing right before our eyes.
Maybe it was Rivera on the slant. 18 or 81, what's the diff? It was McGloin playing at a high level.
Like others have said, putting Ford in the julp ball situation was not a good choice. I wouldn't blame McGloin though - the throw was decent. Isn't it on the coaches to put the right personnel in for a particular play call? Doubt that McGloin audibled, but could be wrong.
By the way, Houston was the invisible man yesterday. One big sack at the right time could have saved the day.
Dissapointing loss (again).
I don't get to watch as many games as I used to. Watched all of yesterday.
There was a lot I liked. We got beat, but we didn't beat ourselves. Dallas O is a beast and once it got on track we didn't have any answers.
Our lackluster 2nd halves speaks to our lack of depth and talent. We spend the week game planning, and make some good plays. Halftime adjustments counter that, and we don't have the horses to adjust much ourselves. There's no other options than the ones we showed early.
Our O-line did well on pass protection, but we got no push at the line. The only way we opened holes was when we got the D moving sideways. That's why the offense dried up in the second half.
This was a loss we could build from, but mostly we need to get a solid, solid draft and FA class in here.
PS
Definition of beating yourself: fumbling a snap at the 3 after a fair catch of a punt at your own 5 + throwing a jump ball to a 5'9" (or shorter) receiver in the end zone.
If you want to say even-steven because of the opening kickoff fumble. I say BS - that was at least a forced turnover from a Raider stripping the ball.
I don't buy into the media talking up Dallas talent vs the "lowly" Raiders. Pisses me off actually.
Raiders snatched defeat from the jaws of victory once again.
For a rookie, I think McGloin has shown good pocket awareness, seeing the field, reading the progressions, and delivering accurate passes.
Although Pryor provided a spark and had big play potential, his style of quarterbacking isn't a sustainable model for long term success.
Unless Pryor adapts and improves significantly as a pocket passer, he will be change of pace, back-up QB throughout his career.
The play call on the Pick by McGloin in the endzone....doesn't mean the call was to throw to Ford. McGloin HAS THE OPTION to throw it to Ford...seems McGloin chose the wrong option and under threw the ball. A QB is not instructed that he HAS TO THROW IT to a Wr, it is ONE OF HIS READS. He made the wrong read, wrong throw = it's what rookie Qb's do.
JONES
Raiders made some mistakes, their margine of error is low because of a thrown together team and lack of talent and depth. Because of this, they lose to other teams as far as 'knowing how each other plays'. That is a big part in a strong Defense.
Raiders are going into most games at a disadvantage. Most teams they face have a stable roster, over years, for the most part. All the teams they face have a bigger payroll to pay those rosters.
Some teams can make mistakes and get away with it...not the Raiders, they need to play almost mistake free to win vs a team with a big O. Philly has a big O, Dallas has a big O, Denver has a big O. Even teams with Defenses that have played years together, have troubles with those Offenses....
Raiders have 10 new starters on Defense. The Offense now has no one starting from the Hue Jackson O, except for Velhdeer and Barnes and Wiz. That is MASSIVE turnover in 2 years and next year there will be a bunch more...anyone getting the depth of the extent of this rebuild?
JONES
I think Pryor was given a fair shot at QB but McGloin has demonstrated superior QB skills that, as CJ says, are more sustainable. Still, if the Raiders are to keep Pryor on the roster next year, I would like to see him in games for wildcat and perhaps other plays. Only using Jennings or McFadden in the wildcat doesn't offer the dynamic Pryor brings to that play as a threat to pass.
On defense, I was disappointed (after getting beat this way last week) to see the Raiders use 3-man rush on some 3rd and long plays. In my book, pressure D is always better than coverage D because it cuts time off the play. You can't give a QB like Tony Romo more time to throw. We simply don't have the talent to rush 3, nor to cover for 6-8 seconds in a play.
IMO, if coaches want to optimize their players' skills, these things should be considered.
On the Defensive side of the ball, Allen says in his Presser that the D-line was gassed, wasn't getting pressure with blitzes, so, you have to weigh the options. If no one is getting to the Qb, all you are doing is wasting men in coverage if you shoot them at the Qb and they aren't getting there. So, IMO, the coaches, saw no pressure, saw D-line gassed, so the best option was more in coverage...they were gassed too....now you can
understand the calls.
JONES
Moving forward these are the questions that need to be asked/analyzed:
1. Has Reggie brought in enough quality players to keep him for another year?
2. Has Allen shown enough as a HC to keep him for another year?
3. Has Pryor or McGloin shown enough promise as a future QB for the Raiders to NOT use a 1st round pick for the 2014 draft?
Here are my thoughts:
1. Reggie gets one more year.
2. Allen goes.
3. Raiders pick a QB the first round of the draft.
Unfortunately that was my exact prediction at the beginning of the season.
My thoughts on questions posed:
1. Absolutely especially within the context of his hands being tied behind his back. Context seems lost on you. Reggie had to cut numerous players just to get under the cap. He was working with a shoe string budget. The players he brought in have made a BIG difference in fielding a competitive team in 10 of 12 games. Turning over 10 of 11 starters on D is not an easy task.
2. Yes. IMO, Allen has grown on the job and has the team playing hard, competitive football. Any way you slice it, it is still the early phase of a complete transition rebuild.
3. No. Don't see the Raiders using the #1 pick on a QB. I see the Raiders finding a veteran QB in the free agent market and drafting a OLineman in the 1st round.
Not only has Reggie redone the whole defensive roster, the Offense is now almost redone as well. WR playing at this point are all Reggie picks, O-line is being redone, Qb new, Rb new, Te new, OC new....
To redo the whole team in 1 and half off seasons with so little cap space, is an amazing task in itself.
For the coaching to have the players buying in all year and being close in most games...that's a job in itself.
It could be a lot worse...could have kept going along the path of self destruction like before....could have kept the core from the past and tried to make it work...that would have wasted 2 years at least....could have tried to sign players with attitudes or problems that would destroy chemistry.....could have been a LOT WORSE.
JONES
I wish I could be as bullish as some of you right now with regard to our players. I see a lot of "meh" on this roster, and I don't see a lot of firm building blocks, and that would include the QB and WR positions. I hope I'm wrong.
The RB position is hanging by a thread with Jennings stepping up. McFadden is a goner. Our defense is "gassed" and getting walked on lately. Here's what LB Burnett said after Thursday's game: “It is nothing that can be coached. The coaches put us in perfect plays, and we didn’t tackle. That’s what it boils down to. We didn’t tackle. We would hit them in the backfield. We’d get six guys around them, and we’d let them go. Everyone has to be accountable. It is what it is at this point.”
We've been hearing versions this SAME quote for a decade now. That is not an exaggeration. The more things change...
RT -
There are very few top level players on either side of the ball.
This is to be expected when you gut the roster and are rebuilding with a severely limited budget.
The question is whether or not you believe that McKenzie can add some top level, proven players while upgrading the overall talent level 1-53.
It also begs the question whether or not some of the younger players can be developed to perform at a high level. Guys like Rivera, Holmes, Streater, D. Moore, Sio, Hayden could become solid building blocks.
To me it starts and stops with the lines on both sides of the ball which is the nuts and bolts of a good team.
Lack of continuity has plagued the Raiders over the last 10 years. Do folks really believe that McKenzie and Allen have been given a fair amount of time and resources?
Granted it's been a slow process, but the evaluations and adjustments continue to occur. Plus, 2014 will provide $$ resources that have been unavailable to this point. IMO, there has to be another year under this regime.
Who's happy with the Roster? I don't think any Raider fan is satisfied with this Roster. The point being, the team from the old regime was pathetic, the players were pathetic and so was the Org as a whole. So how do expect a complete turnaround in 2 years?
How do expect the players to become superstars? Coaches can't make avg players into stars, if that was the case, there would be many more players available for the NFL.
If the talent isn't the best, the coaching can only do so much. It's when the talent meets the coaching and all are on the same page = success. Wishing upon a star isn't going to get it done.
The whole Org had to be revamped, it's a big job that takes some time. All the whiners who cry that it isn't happening fast enough, don't seem to have a clue to the size of the rebuild or what it takes to make a Tower out of scraps.
JONES
This Org was steeped in it's roots for 50 years...everything was done 1 way for 50 years.
The roster was full of garbage when the new regime took over.
With no assets/talent to speak of, poor chemistry, poor culture, the books were a total mess....and we have 'fans' who cry because there is still not much on the Roster and the wins aren't coming fast enough. REALLY? Really? and they blame the new regime for not fixing what was...in record time.
My goodness, talk about 'entitlement'...if the complainers think they can do better...then serve it up right here...let us all know how you could have done it better and how you could have this team in the playoffs this year....we'll be waiting....and don't tell me Alex Smith for 2 2nd Rd's would of got this team to the playoffs and set the team up for years of wins because that is bullshit.
JONES
Jones, in a few months, we will be a full two years into the revamping.
I don't expect a complete turnaround in two years. But I'd sure prefer to feel better about the upcoming third year at this point.
When I watch guys like McGloin, Hayden, Streater, I can't help but think of guys like McCown, Huff and Louis Murphy. When I hear our own players talk about how the defense needs to learn how to close games and tackle properly, it's just an echo of the same old thing from Norv onward.
You can yell about how I'm being unreasonable. Call it whatever you want.
I'm just telling you what my eyeballs are seeing. It's more of an observation than an indictment.
We'll be able to spend loads of cash this offseason. Our fortunes could change quickly. But the cash needs to be spent wisely, and we need to start hitting some home runs.
The only notable Free Agent QBs are Jay Cutler, Mike Vick, and Chad Henne. No, no, and no! Unless we trade for a QB, a viable veteran QB is out of the question.
I think our needs offensively are going to be first the O-Line, and 2nd, the WRs, and RB the third. I'm pleased with the poise McGloin has, and the pocket awareness. I think he is a QB to build on. If we draft a QB with our first pick, I'd like to see Bridgewater. But I know, I'm holding my breath. Bryn Renner may be a sleeper QB in the Draft, as well as Jeff Matthews, and Sean Mannion.
I think we lock down LT by resigning Veldheer; and going after Oher for Right Tackle.
We need help at all positions on the O-Line except for Center. We could sign Alex Mack to play Center and move Wisenewski to Guard. But we really need help at both Guard positions and Tackle.
We could also draft some guys. Jake Matthews (OT, A&M) the son of Bruce Matthews would be an epic first round selection. Cyril Richardson (G, Baylor), and Andrew Norwell (G, Ohio State).
I'm not sure if we address our WR needs in Free Agency. I would like to pursue Eric Decker or Hakeem Nicks. I think these guys are potential #1 WRs that we could desperately use. Overall, I think we draft Marquis Lee with our first pick.
I think we resign Jennings and let McFadden go. I would like to see us compliment him by bringing in a bruiser like Ben Tate, McGahee, or draft someone like Melvin Gordon (if he enters) or Carlos Hyde. I was hoping to get Montee Ball as a compliment to McFadden this past draft but he went to the Donkeys.
Defensively, it is all D-Line. We need guys who are going to bring pressure. Can't help but think Jared Allen, but he has slowed quite a bit in the past few years. Greg Hardy and resigning Houston would be a win in my book as well.
At DT, Free agents like Aubrayo Franklin, resigning Sims or Walker (not both), Terrence Cody,or Shaun Rogers would be a nice pick up too.
But we cannot neglect the draft here either. Jadeveon Clowney (DE, SCarolina), Jackson Jeffcoat (DE, Texas), Cassius Marsh (DE, UCLA), Timmy Jernigan (DT, FSU), DaQuan Jones (DT, Penn State), or Beau Allen (DT, Wisconsin).
I'm really excited about our offseason. I keep it in the back of my mind though that Reggie is the type of guy who will not blow every thing on one player. I know he is going to get depth and plug in people who will ignite.
What is going to make or break me on Reggie this offseason is:
1) Does he recognize the need to implode the O-line (like he did the D-line this past offseason)?
2) Does he see the need for a #1 WR; or is he content with the "talent" we have?
3) Is he going to bring in guys who will ignite, and make better players out of those around him on both sides of the ball?
I think he and Allen deserve one more year based on the level of competition we have this year. Though we have not won as many games as I like; it has only been one or two plays that cost us the game; and more often, we haven't beaten ourselves. We do have a competitive team.
Let's see what these magicians can do this coming offseason and next season with the cap space; and the foundation to become better next year. If we see lackluster in signings; and a mediocre team, then I will be screaming for heads.
JUST WIN, BABY!
Ahhh, forget it, it's like talking to the wall. You don't know what you are looking at, RT, that is why you are so dumbfounded by it all....what did you want, RT?
Tell us, how it could of been done much better...go on, tell us. How do you load a roster with top players and turn around an Org in 2 years that has no assets to begin with and cap hell to contend with...go on, tell us. WTF do you want? TELL US.
I'll tell you what I see...I see a guy who is in charge of a web site who is sitting on the fence....waiting for a shoe to drop because he won't commit either way because HE DOESN"T KNOW WHAT HE IS LOOKING AT.
JONES
RT...comparing Hayden to Huff already? That's reckless, how bout letting the Kid develop a bit? McGloin is McCown? McGloin has only played 3 games as an undrafted rookie and you are calling him a McCown? Streater is a Louis Murphy? The 3 Raiders are all 1 and 2 year players and you are calling them busts already? RT, why don't you just use your name instead of using ANONYMOUS? It's a weird experiment, I'll give you that.
JONES
1 more point....the D was gassed, RT, this is why their tackling wasn't as good as we have seen earlier this year. Depth is hurting, starters banged up, is hurting...the depth problem stems from the last regime's cap problem. You can only sign so many quality players with under 70 mill in cap space.
REASONING, it ain't illegal yet.....
JONES
I remain encouraged that decisions are being made to field the best players at key position across the roster. Jennings and McCloin stand out in this regard.
So it stands to reason that as available player options improve so will the results.
Reggie and Allen work this way...if you aren't earning it, you aren't playing, period.
For the Roster Reggie has put together with only 70 mill to spend, it's better than the old roster, that took over a 100 mill to field. And it's younger with plenty of room for growth.
Is there a GM in the League that would have done any better? Like I wrote earlier, it could be A LOT worse. I like the job they have done and will expect the team to continue to make good sized strides towards a winning product.
JONES
"Jones, in a few months, we will be a full two years into the revamping."
Under normal circumstances (key word normal) I would have expected to see a more talented roster.
2012, year 1 of DA/McKenzie was FAR from normal. A new owner, new GM, new HC, no valuable draft picks, a complete cap mess, and a toxic culture.
The mess that was inherited by DA/McKenzie was HUGE. This is one of the reasons that I've been more patient than usual. This is the reason that I'm giving DA/McKenzie the benefit of doubt to see (a) what talent McKenzie can acquire with ample cap dollars to spend (b) how DA coaches (wins/losses) with a more talented, deeper roster.
I'm genuinely pumped up and optimistic about our prospects in 2014 and beyond.
Under normal circumstances, like having a roster with some character and talent?
The new regime stepped into a team with no character and very little talent. They have turned the roster over and over and they had to do it with only 2/3rds of what the other teams had to spend on a roster.
Not only did they have to make a roster with all new players, except a handful, they had to make a roster with a short supply of money. Porter, Roach, Burnett, Sims, Jenkins, Woodson, Walker, Young, Streater, McGloin, Rivera, Holmes, Pashos, Jennings....and people are complaining that there needs to be a shake up? With a few breaks, this team could easily be in playoff contention..... Wow = clueless.
JONES
This is not the same Raiders team that failed year after year for the past decade.
See if this makes sense...
http://tinyurl.com/osjuhcz
I think that article made plenty of sense. I like that kind of article as opposed to the one that had Mark Davis ordering Reggie and Allen to play Pryor.
One that has a positive feel towards what is happening as opposed to "why can't we have the PAST again?".
For what they have accomplished and how close it is to actually turning into something in the time they have had to rebuild....KUDOS to the Raiders.
Hear those crickets? That's what happens when you ask the whiner fans what else could have been done to further this team. Not 1 response...but, they will wait in the weeds for a loss and then it will all start up again... = Allen and Reggie should be fired, where's the talent, why haven't they gotten a stud Qb yet....ON AND ON it goes....got to keep those comments coming.
JONES
what about Cochran's post today;
Raiders making most of their players’ talents
By Steve Corkran
Monday, December 2nd, 2013 at 4:59 pm in Oakland Raiders.
When faulting the Raiders for squandering five second-half leads this season or failing to blow out any teams, perhaps it bears taking into account what coach Dennis Allen has at his disposal.
Take the Dallas Cowboys game, for example, in which the Raiders started Matt McGloin at quarterback, Jeron Mastrud at tight end, Andre Holmes and Rod Streater at wide receiver and Marcel Reece at fullback.
The common denominator? All entered the NFL as undrafted free agents. Then there’s running back Rashad Jennings, a seventh-round draft pick.
That doesn’t even factor in the defense. The point is, it should pass as more surprising that the Raiders have been competitive in all but two games so far and not that they won only four of their first 12 games.
It also bodes well that general manager Reggie McKenzie and his scouting department have the eye to spot players such as McGloin and Streater, as they did each of the past two seasons, as a means of bolstering the roster.
Well, it finally looks like the beat writers are clueing in. Instead of beating the same old drum....they have finally found a new drum. One with a little more perspective and with a little more reasoning.
Where is Balanda and his Mike Silver, or whatever his name is, articles?
JONES
In the draft, Raiders have to go with a DE (or two) that can rush the passer. At least a couple more games could have been won this year with a sack at the right time.
Who's the guy that said, "the QB must go down and he must go down hard"?
x....the beauty of this offseason...Reggie can use over 60 mill in cap space to sign ESTABLISHED players. So he won't have to depend on drafting to fill the roster with quality. Any position is open to upgrade....kind of exciting if you are a Raider fan.
JONES
Agree X. We need to find a DE pass rushing specialist to bookend Lamar Houston. We also need to find a top RT and at least 1 more OG. I also think it is critical that we find a DT with pass rushing abilities to collapse the pocket. Would love to see a high priority placed and dollar spent on significantly rebuilding the talent level in both trenches.
I believe that you build a team from the inside out.
Concentrating on building elite interior lines gives the skilled players (QB, RB, WR, CBs) the best chance to shine.
2016.
Jones, just because we have $60 mill to blow, doesn't mean $60 mill in established players will be available. Our $60 mill free cap space this coming off-season could also translate being over the 2015 cap space. So we have to recognize the long term value of our cap space as well.
So yes, we will have to use to draft, not just to find someone who can fill holes or add "depth"; but sometimes those players establish themselves.
I'm telling you, outside of Clowney, I like Jackson Jeffcoat (DE, Texas). He's not a "beast" but he's consistent and aggressive, just like Houston; and both are from the same school.
If we spend big, it will be on the O-Line (Michael Oher, Veldheer, maybe drafting a few). Need to revamp the O-line. Then we need to find a quality WR. As much as I like Marquis Lee, I don't think we draft him. I think we draft O-Line (Jake Matthews) or D-Line.
I think WR is an area we target in Free Agency (Eric Decker).
The bottom line is the possibilities are good, and I think we are going to be fine.
We need a quarterback.
Gee, ya think, Nate? I don't have to recognize anything, Reggie will take care of it. He obviously knows how to manage a cap. When drafting high, of course you want quality, did I ever write that I wanted Reggie just to use the draft for depth?
Of course you want your core to be from what you have drafted, but that takes time. Point being, with this much cap space to play with, Reggie can use many routes to get where HE wants to go.
JONES
RT is in a feather together with the trolls...RT is trolling his own site....too funny.
You sure add a lot to this site RT, thanks for your in depth reply to your whining.
You and OTB are in the same boat, nothing to add but a few words. Talk to us, RT, tell us the better plan....or....just keep being a whiner, if it gets more replies.
JONES
Jones, in earlier comments, I've expressed in detail what I thought could have been done better over the past few years. I'm not going to be baited into repeating myself.
You are starting to remind me of your own antagonists. High volume, tons of excuses for losing, never questioning anything the organization is doing. Who does that sound like? The "crew"...or you?
We're on pace to go 5-12 this year, despite adding talent at RB and WR, the solid play of Pryor and McGloin, a complete draft, and some free agent action, the Allen regime's second year, the addition by subtraction of Knapp, etc.
I expected more.
But let's drop the Reggie Could Have / Could Not Have argument. We've already done that. Let's look at the Raiders right now.
I think QB is our biggest concern. Look at the top of the NFL, you need an elite QB to be a perennial contender. I don't think we have an elite QB in the making right now. Do you?
Why is our defense, which was our strength earlier this year and full of promise, suddenly getting gassed and getting beat and losing games?
Some of you are seeing more in this team than I am right now. I expected to feel better about things at this point. Maybe I will feel better soon, there's still some time to re-establish momentum heading into 2014.
I don't think it's a big secret why our defense is gassed - they're constantly on the field. Our running game falls apart in the 2nd half.
http://espn.go.com/nfl/team/splits/_/name/oak/type/rushing/oakland-raiders
Touchdowns and yards drop way off, and fumbles go up. The passing problems in the 2nd half are less dramatic, but we see huge increases in INTs and sacks.
The O can't get the job done, and the D isn't like the old Baltimore D. It's good to fair, and needs some help, which it isn't getting.
I think we need a lot of help on the O-line, some help at WR (I think our current crop can likely fill spots 2 to 4 if we got a really strong #1), someone at tightend, and I don't think we need a RB. We might need a QB. I don't know that McGloin is good enough (I don't know that he isn't . . . ) and I think Pryor is limited.
PS
LOL, you've been baiting me this whole time, RT. You haven't explained shit except to say the Raiders should have went after Alex Smith, other than that, all you've been posting is WHY?
RT, you are playing games, just keep it real and there isn't a problem...but I get the feeling that's not the way you want it.
As far as the "crew" bullshit...hey fucknut, when I was blasting the CREW, it's because they were backing and making excuses for a losing formula that CLEARLY wasn't working. That is the difference that YOU CANNOT SEE, RT.
I see this regime moving the team forward, you don't, you line it up as being run in the same fashion as before, which in turn, makes you wrong, once again.
There is a difference, RT, I back a WINNING FORMULA and the winning will come when the GM no longer has a 60 million dollar anchor tied to his balls. I have been critical when there are mistakes, so painting me as what the "crew" was...screw you and, keep those posts coming.
JONES
As far as your "I expected more"...really...then talk to us, RT, tell us what you expected. You keep dropping rabbit turds that have no substance to them.
We've already been over the Qb thing, haven't we RT? Fairydust ring a bell? But you want to drop the Reggie thing even though you haven't addressed it?
Is this your idea of 'debate'= provoking? The games people play to get their kicks....fly straight, or you fucked up. You may think you are getting over with the games.....you are losing, RT. No one wins when you do that shit, RT...just to let you know.
JONES
Lots of frustration, and certainly understandable. I said before, Raiders took a huge hit early this year with the loss of Veldheer. That has to be given some consideration with respect to problems on offense.
IMO, folks are making too big a deal about the W-L record in a rebuilding year.
The defense was "gassed" in one game during a shortened week. They called the "wrong play" to lose the week before, and made the game-ending stop to win in the week prior to that. So the "gassed" discussion is really just confined to one game in a shortened week.
Truth is, the Raiders are a hand full of plays removed from a winning record. They have been competitive in most every game, with two notable exceptions.
Unless you expected the Raiders to make the playoffs (which would be pretty loftly), I think you are seeing the kinds of improvements that will soon pay dividends... once there is further opportunity to improve the roster.
And if you don't think McGloin a competent QB, he at least provides a viable stopgap until a franchise QB is identified.
What could Reggie have done better? How about use the first round pick on someone who could stay on the field and make an impact.
Wow, great response...what about all those players he signed that have made an impact? And have you ever seen a CB come in on a Rookie season, after missing preseason, and lighting it up?
Are you going to keep repeating the same stupid talking points under the guise of ANONYMOUS? Hayden will pay dividends, just not this year....though he did gain very valuable experience this year. LAME, very lame and it just keeps getting lamer LOL.
JONES
Jones, you're not going to scare me off my take. I've been down this road many times before, with folks shouting through their keyboard and cursing at me and trying to scare me off my takes. Sorry, ain't gonna happen.
I've talked about many things that I felt could have been done better (starting the rebuild in earnest sooner, not hiring an OC whose system is an obvious bad match for our personnel, doing better in this year's draft, not giving Pryor his due until the hand was forced, not throwing millions away on Flynn and Wilson, etc.). Don't pretend you didn't see those comments.
By seizing on my critiques, you are trying to paint me into a corner as an anti-Reggie, fire-them-all, unreasonable fan. You are trying to create an atmosphere here where critiquing anything the organization has done or is doing is verboten.
That's never what this place has been about.
I'm going to turn the table and use the same paint-you-in-a-box logic on you, and say that you believe Reggie has hit nothing but home runs, has done an A+ job since day one, and that DA has clearly showing himself to be an obvious long-term solution at head coach.
I can't imagine how someone would disagree with that.
I can't be a hypocrite.
I said at start of season, all I wanted was for Raiders to compete in every game.
And aside from the Eagles game, they have been in every contest.
Regarding Matt Mcgloin. He shows great promise.
But there were times during Dallas game, where Mcgloin could have stepped up in pocket. Stepped into his throw, for a truer release.
If you notice, some of his passes(the intercept) are short.
This is not due to lack of arm strength. It is due to throwing flat footed, or with wieght leaning on back foot.
Very corectable, but something that must be addressed if Mcgloin is a long term answer.
Once again, RT, you totally ignore the circumstance of each of those 'mistakes' you pointed out. You also ignore the size of the task at hand and you ignore the fact that with all the moves Reggie has made during his short term, there will be mistakes.
Picking out a mistake here or there isn't brain surgery, a chimp could get it right sometimes. If you look at the OVERALL picture and the majority of McKenzie's moves, which it seems your ilk seem to have a problem with...you will see a good job done by this new regime.
I will say this, anyone who gets scared by someone "yelling at them over the internet"....you have problems...no RT, I'm not trying to scare you, just trying to get you to stop playing games and fly straight. Can you do it?
Go ahead and pull the "it's my blog" card, it's about the truth and what is right. I can understand that you want people to visit this site...what better way to promote debate = with truth rather than deceit?
"In a time of universal deceit - telling the truth is a revolutionary act."
JONES
The only ' atmosphere' is the truth, RT. When I present something on here, I back it up, with my record of what has been written and by factual statements. I stand by my record on here, proven over time that I do have an idea of what it's about.
No, RT, I'm not trying to create anything, just stating facts and trying to do it with other WELL INFORMED Raider fans...but that looks kind of useless, doesn't it. Scan the Raider sites around the Web and it's embarrassing the ignorance of the avg fan.
With all these talking points that you USE , RT, you are helping with the dumbing down of the Raider Nation...good job, you must be proud.
JONES
This is called Raider Take, not Raider Truth. You say you have the "truth." Good for you. The rest us us can have our takes.
From Corkran's live chat (since you're so high on the Raiders beat writers' opinions all of a sudden):
Fan: I'm more upset with RM's performance than that of any player or coach.
Corkran: You have a right to be, if for no other reason than his judgment on quarterbacks.by scorkran 12:34 PM
Another chat exchange:
FAN: A WR or DE in the first round?21 PM
A quarterback.by scorkran 12:22 PM
Another exchange:
Fan: If the 2014 draft is as deep as advertised, perhaps we should trade down (even out of the first round entirely)? We seem to do better selecting in the mid to late rounds (and later!). AD was no different than RM in that regard (in my opinion).
Corkran: Traded down this year, and it didn't work out too well. So far.by scorkran 12:01 PM
The massive undertaking and overhaul of rebuilding the Raiders is a process which takes time and where mistakes are made.
The question that I have for the RT Pub Regulars is whether or not you believe DA/McK have set up the Raiders to take some significant strides forward in 2014.
My checklist:
Is there stability in the organization?
Has there been any off-field distractions excluding McClain last year who DA/McK inherited and showed the door?
Do you think we have a competent coaching staff?
Has the toxic, me-first culture been rid?
Do we have ample cap space to go after tier 1 free agents?
Is there a nucleus of players who can become building blocks with more experience and development?
Has the 2013 team been a more consistently competitive team?
My final takeaways:
I believe McK will add significant talent upgrades to the roster next off-season whereby the close games we lost this year have a far greater likelihood of becoming wins.
With 6+ games of experience under his belt, an improved OLine, and a full camp, McGloin can make further improvements in his craft.
I also don't think we will jump necessarily from 4-5 wins to 11+ wins but 8-8 will be my baseline expectation.
We shall see.
Whatever RT, time will tell, as it always does. Thing is, will you acknowledge it, or will just selectively ignore it like all the points made prior?
You misread me, RT, I don't give 1 flying shit what a reporter, who has never played a sport in his life, is writing.
They all do what you are doing, trying to create a story that will attract viewers for more comments and a bigger ego....well good for them. As far as their knowledge of the game...they don't know a damn thing, they just write what everyone else is writing, just like you.
JONES
Yeah, this is Raidertake....where deception runs wild ... for the glorious glee of the owner of it. All the while playing the role as the 'straight man'. Oh so clever, you are, RT.
JONES
So we don't have the same take on things. Big deal, I have mine, you have yours. Why are your knickers in such a twist? So not having the same take as you is tantamount to "deceiving" and "creating a story?" Geesh.
There's only one truth...it's like speaking to my wife, she always seems to think there is 4 or 5 different truths. So when you debate, you back it with facts, not with talking points repeated over and over to brainwash.
I would think that a REAL fan would want to break it down and get to the TRUTH. Not here, seems RT wants made up bullshit to force an agenda that is running rampant throughout many blogs right now.
That agenda seems to be about getting DA fired because he didn't get the team close to the playoffs, he didn't coach up a bunch of players taken off the scrap heap because there was no cap space to sign anything else....but don't let that get in the way of bullshit to create discussion, right?
Let the discussion be about the truth, not a bunch of ANONYMOUS fly byes, not a bunch of bullshit names that 'create a thought'. I would place money that more posters would join in if they knew it was a GOOD discussion with SINCERE takes. Fly straight, or you gonna crash.
JONES
Fan: I'm more upset with RM's performance than that of any player or coach.
Corkran: You have a right to be, if for no other reason than his judgment on quarterbacks.by scorkran 12:34 PM
(CJ: When you have no cap space and there are no "impact" QBs in the early 1st round, RM is biding time to try to secure a QB. Yes, Flynn was a whiff but there were next to no options at the time. Top QBs aren't exactly easily plucked from a tree)
FAN: A WR or DE in the first round?21 PM
A quarterback.by scorkran 12:22 PM
(CJ: If there is a QB that RM wants to draft in the 1st round, 2nd round or free agency, GO For it! There is no singular way when there are numerous variables that goes into the equation. )
Another exchange:
Fan: If the 2014 draft is as deep as advertised, perhaps we should trade down (even out of the first round entirely)? We seem to do better selecting in the mid to late rounds (and later!). AD was no different than RM in that regard (in my opinion).
Corkran: Traded down this year, and it didn't work out too well. So far.by scorkran 12:01 PM
(CJ: TBD. If Hayden is as good as RM thinks and Watson turns into a beast in year 2/3, it will be a shrewd move. The point is that it is FAR too premature to make any hasty conclusion)
Lastly, to use a fan chat as the end all or draw any conclusions is asinine. Cochran is making snap judgments to fit a chat narrative and be more "know it all" than he would back up in an article where there is more thought and content.
I never said it was an "end all"
Prior to seeing that chat, I questioned Reggie McKenzie's whiffs on Flynn and Wilson; questioned the recent draft, where we passed over some immediate impact d-lineman and LB (weren't you, CJ, just saying we need a strong d-lineman?); and said QB is our main need.
For takes like that, I am being called "deceitful" and told I'm "creating stories."
Don't you think that's asinine, too?
So yes, I do think it's relevant when my own takes stated previously (and assailed here) are acknowledged as at least reasonable by the team's lead beat writer who, I should add, as been largely vocal in his support of the Reggie regime.
Don't become today what you were condemning two years ago. Allow for debate and dissent without namecalling and cursing. Accept the possibility of critique when your team is 4-8.
Dear Mark Davis:
If you were thinking of holding employee reviews at the end of this year, stop. Read the comments at Raider Take. Everything is tracking perfectly. Reggie and DA require nothing more than your unquestioned support. If you are anxious about another 4 or 5 win year, let it go. Time is on your side. DO NOT hold any feet to the fire.
Yes, I know this sounds just like the comments at Raider Take when your father was running the show. Funny how that works.
As they say, the more things change...
Sincerely,
RT
LOL, come to raidertake where illusions and bullshit talks. Once again, you totally refuse what I stated earlier about your comparison to the "crew". Just come out and say it, stop beating around the bush...tell us, RT, it's time.
Your drama of NAME CALLING and CURSING like it's just so out of control, just like it was when the "crew" was still around spewing their nonsense. That is different now too, RT, but once again, you can't seem to let go of the past, much like many of your former posters.
You, RT, continue to state that the dialogue is still the same and the Ownership and antics of the Raiders are still the same as it was....yet there is obvious facts pointing to the OPPOSITE of that scenario.
Why, RT? Why won't you accept facts? Why do you brush off all that is positive and pick at things like Matt Flynn? An agenda, perhaps? That = insincerity, that = bullshit and it seems that bullshit talks and truth walks on raidertake.
JONES
Also, Corkran has been butt hurt ever since McKenzie belittled the press by telling them in front of rolling cameras that their opinions really didn't mean squat. For RT to write that he has been very supportive of McKenzie, is just another sign of deception...Cork has taken his shots at McKenzie, you better believe it.
JONES
One more thing...it's one thing to make excuses for something that is failing and had proven to be a failure over a long period of time.
It's another to back a NEW REGIME that had to inherit a mess beyond comprehension and let them prove that they can do it.
It's also one thing to start lashing out at the new regime without really giving them a REASONABLE amount of time to deal with the mess that was.
It's also another thing to totally deny that good things the new regime has accomplished with the handicaps they inherited.
I will back this new regime until they HAVE PROVEN they cannot do the job, until then, I will support them and will keep an even perspective on what they do. DONE
JONES
What's all the talk about truth? The jury is still out on the truth. The truth won't happen until the results are in, and even then the truth can be cloudy.
Truth is, McKenzie and Allen have a lot of work to do....
(CJ)
"Don't become today what you were condemning two years ago. Allow for debate and dissent without namecalling and cursing. Accept the possibility of critique when your team is 4-8."
I assume this isn't directed towards me. I welcome debate and dissent.
CJ
Answers:
Is there stability in the organization? Yes, I believe there is more stability. Not sure if that relates to stability in coaching; seeing we rid of several coaches this past season; and how that will play this season.
Has there been any off-field distractions excluding McClain last year who DA/McK inherited and showed the door? No.
Do you think we have a competent coaching staff? That remains to be seen. I see glimpses of a great team, and then we fall apart. I see aggressive play calling, only to give away to prevent defense, or playing not to lose (Pittsburgh game). I see a lot of inconsistencies with this coaching staff that I'm not too happy with.
Has the toxic, me-first culture been rid? No, McFadden is still on this roster. There are others too.
Do we have ample cap space to go after tier 1 free agents? We will after this season.
Is there a nucleus of players who can become building blocks with more experience and development? Yes, McGloin is one of them I believe. Pryor is another too if someone would work with his throwing. The problem is the coaches want someone who can do that now and not have to coach them as much.
I think Sio Moore is a building block on defense. Other than that, there is really not much to build on at the moment. We don't have that "it" guy on the O-line, nor do we have that "it" guy on the D-Line, WR, or RB. I don't think we keep Houston, he signs somewhere else. I would like to see us sign Alex Mack from Cleveland and move Wisenewski to Guard, bring in Michael Oher for RT, re-sign Veldheer, and draft Jake Matthews. Then we will have something to build on.
Has the 2013 team been a more consistently competitive team? Again, I see a competitive team; but I see a lot of inconsistencies with this coaching staff that I'm not too happy with; as far as adjustments from one half to the next. Being aggressive and then tapping the brakes (if you will). I see inconsistent play from the team as well on both sides of the ball as well; and a lot of that has to do with play calling. Allen says he would like to see the "killer instinct" when we have a lead; but he lets the d play prevent defense, instead of keeping the pressure. He let's the offense play not to lose, instead of being aggressive. The aggressive wins in this game. Yes, you can lose too; but I'd rather lose being aggressive than lose being passive. I feel 4 of our losses have come by pussy-footing on both sides of the ball (Cowboys, Titans, Giants, and Colts). The wins that we have, we almost gave away with the same mentality (Chargers, Jags, Steelers, and Texans). I think we should be at 8 wins right now in the playoff hunt, but because we have a passive mentality of "we are just biding our time until next season;" we are out of the playoff hunt.
I'm excited about the competitiveness I've seen; but frustrated with the passive coaching attitude.
JUST WIN, DAMNIT!
So true, NY.
No, CJ, that wasn't directed at you, but at the growing trend here to seize on any critiques of the organization to paint people into a corner as "fire-them-all," unreasonable, not-on-board, deceitful fans.
I do feel you were fanning those flames by saying it was "asinine" to use a chat as an "end all," when I was simply referencing a beat writer's comments to address specific examples of my own takes that are being called deceitful, dishonest, etc.
I do have doubts about the recent draft performance, our coaching staff's long-term prospects, and our handling of the QB situation, among other things. I think it's okay to wonder if our GM and head coach are handling their roles as best they could, considering the 4-8 record. Do you not think Mark Davis is wondering?
Of course I'm happy that the culture is changing, that competitiveness is on the rise, that the scholarship era and drunken sailor spending are over.
But "not awful anymore" doesn't automatically mean "excellence," no matter how much Jones says it's the "truth."
Nice take, Nate.
If Mark Davis is as itchy on the trigger as RT, then the Raiders are doomed. Then nothing has changed, if that is the case.
I think Mark is a little smarter than that. ANYONE with a football mind would allow this regime to continue to do what they are doing, without interference.
But once again, crazy Raider fans just don't want to let go of the way it was and want to paint Mark as the same as his Dad as far as patience and wanting to dominate the Org.
It's like an abused child, it's all they know so the abuse becomes normal to them. Just like Raider fans, they just can't believe that the Raiders can be run in a non dysfunctional manner. It's here and if you allow it to play out, you will see it is TRUE.
JONES
Truth can be cloudy? NAHHHH, truth is CRYSTAL CLEAR, always. How can truth be cloudy? that is an oxymoron. Truth is, McKenzie and Allen have had a ton of work to do the minute they took the job. It's no different now.
JONES
"For RT to write that he (Corkrkan) has been very supportive of McKenzie, is just another sign of deception."
Yeah, sorry, I read Cork's piece two days ago titled RAIDERS MAKING THE MOST OF THEIR PLAYERS' TALENTS with the following comments (among other similar things he has written and chatted this year), and decided I would deceive all of you by suggesting that Cork has been largely supportive of the team's direction. Jones, you are better than this.
"It also bodes well that general manager Reggie McKenzie and his scouting department have the eye to spot players such as McGloin and Streater, as they did each of the past two seasons, as a means of bolstering the roster."
"When faulting the Raiders for squandering five second-half leads this season or failing to blow out any teams, perhaps it bears taking into account what coach Dennis Allen has at his disposal."
http://www.ibabuzz.com/oaklandraiders/2013/12/02/raiders-making-most-of-their-players-talents/
Time will tell, RT .... just like when I started to recognize the player problem from the last regime's core. I also pointed out the CULTURE problem on the team and was roundly treated like a fool for even suggesting it. But, time played out and proved it was TRUE....CRICKETS.
When I 1st started posting on here, it was a lovefest of anything Al Davis on here. I started to write that it was Mr Davis who is behind the Raiders problems.... I got called names, was called 'coach' because some other guy was posting the same stuff, sort of. Took a lot of abuse. Didn't back down and continued my message over the years. As time went by, the truth was undeniable.
Just a little reminder of TRUTH and the history it has played on this blog.
JONES
That's right RT, 2 small quotes take away all his attacks against McKenzie....he is butt hurt, maybe you are too?
JONES
This stuff is straight out of the crew playbook.
Yes it is RT and it is your tactics that play right into it. Your games are crew games, painting pictures with no facts. Media are IDIOTS, Corkran is an idiot, and if you want to start pretending that Corkran should be looked up to and his quotes held in some kind of higher standard...more deception and picture painting by the lead deceiver. Come out of your closet, RT, we want to see the real you....
JONES
Trying to discredit with attacks rather than facts = crew = RT.
Trying to use media as proof = crew = RT
Trying to create false scenarios = crew = RT
Truth hurts, hey RT?
JONES
Calling people "liars" / "deceitful" for having reasonable takes.
Refusing the criticize anything the organization is doing.
Flipping out when someone does critique the organization.
Claiming to hold the "truth."
Overstating things to paint critiques as absolute condemnation of everything the team is doing.
Calling Oakland Tribune writers "mediots" / "idiots"
Screaming about falsehoods without articulating what the falsehoods are.
It's like 2010 all over again.
Refusing to criticize anything the Org is doing = LIE
Flipping out = LIE
Yes, people in the media have no clue and anyone who still worships media, is an idiot as well.
I have clearly defined the falsehoods in your theories, RT, you just refuse to acknowledge them. Just because you refuse it, doesn't mean it isn't TRUE.
Keep painting those pictures, RT, you are scrambling and that is the sign of the truth hitting a deceiver.
I know, you know I know, the truth will come out sooner or later, so just spill the beans already.
JONES
No scrambling here and standing by my takes.
There's scrambling, Straight man. Your Takes have been easily refuted and this is why you are on your "crew" mission to try and discredit it.
Posing isn't truth, RT, using ANONYMOUS to further your point, is not truth, RT. Time will tell and I can't wait.
JONES
You let me know what takes have been refuted and we'll go from there.
Matt Flynn...you say it was an enormous mistake...no it wasn't, trading 2 picks for Alex Smith would have been the mistake. Sure Flynn didn't work out, all he cost was a 5th RD pick and some cash, big deal. Palmer said he wanted out late....blah blah blah, remember?
Why has the Defense slowed down...depth is a big part, injuries and lacking a good pass rusher. The D has been the strongest part of the team, most of the year.
Reggie can't draft...what a crock. Time and time again, anyone who knows football, knows a draft cannot be judged until it plays out. But don't let that stop you from saying Hayden and Watson are busts.
Why hasn't Reggie loaded the roster with quality...well, anyone with a brain knows the reason, just that ANONYMOUS and RT can't seem to figure that one out.
You want a QB, why didn't they get Pryor ready last year.....once again, Palmer was projected as the starter until he pulled the plug late into the offseason. Pryor was way behind where he is today and he got beat out by an undrafted rookie. Once again, where was this magical QB supposed to come from? FAIRYDUST?
Why was Knapp hired...again, late in the offseason, any coach with a name would not have touched the Raiders last year because it was such an unknown mess. Knapp was settled on, obviously and was turfed the day after the season was done.
Why didn't they draft for D-line or LB because a couple of players are having a bit of success on other teams....Last draft had farther than just this year in mind. Reggie is building for down the road with the top picks last year, no immediate impact was not the criteria for the draft....down the road, understand? AFC West has 2 QB's that are lights out, is drafting a CB a dumb move? Really?
Anything else? Just bring it and bring it with a straight forward sincerity, then there is no problem, right RT?
JONES
And I will ask one more time...tell the world RT, how could have Reggie done it any differently? How could any GM done a better job to this point. ANY GM would have made mistakes with all the moves that needed to be done. ANY GM taking over the mess that was, would need time to restructure and refocus the Org.
But in RT world, those are EXCUSES. But, also in RT world, there is no need to give a better plan or explain how it could be better...no, it's just WHY, WHY, sounds a lot like Nancy Kerrigan's place.
If you are going to cry and whine, come up with a better plan, if you can't, maybe you need to STFU.
JONES
Never said Matt Flynn was an "enormous mistake." He was a costly whiff, and combined with the Wilson pick and bonus money, it makes me wonder about the QB evaluation abilities so far.
Never said Reggie can't draft. But I'm not high on what went down on this past draft. That's my take.
Never said Reggie should have already loaded the roster with quality players. But that doesn't mean I can't be disappointed with 4-8 out of this roster.
Knapp was an awful hire. Period. Retread, bad fit for our personnel.
Never said drafting a CB was a dumb move. I do question drafting a CB coming off a crazy injury history when there were so many strong D-linemen available, and so far I have my doubts about Hayden as a future dominant DB.
So there you have it. Those are my takes, or what you call "lies."
Nor are these my only takes. I've been pleased with the overall culture change, competitiveness, etc.
"Can't draft, enormous mistake, dumb move, Hayden and Watson are busts..." All words put into my mouth to trump up the case. Nice.
You know, I am ashamed of the Raider Nation, really ashamed and the discussion on this site is no different.
Here we have Reggie McKenzie, former Raider, taking over the Franchise when it was at it's lowest of lows. He shows that he really wants to turn it around.
Gets the job late in the Offseason and has to find a HC who will take the job. Hires a young up and comer with IAM SURE THE FUTUTRE IN MIND. Knowing that the first couple of years will be to establish a foundation that was not there.
Allen comes in late and has to hire a staff. Assistants see the mess, see the rookie HC and probably wouldn't even of touched the ten foot pole. Not that the talent was there to hire a good OC, but a hire had to be made.
Now, here we have 'fans' that not even after the 2nd year is complete, want to cut the legs out from under the new regime. THAT IS FUCKING PATHETIC in itself. Then we have those fans saying they are ahead of the curve....Now beat me with a dummy stick, but who are the assholes here?
I will back this new regime because THEY ARE RAIDERS and are showing me that they are giving it 100% and are making good moves with what they have to work with. I will support that every time.
Now with these assholes who want to will the firing of Allen through the media = FUCK YOU. You are the same assholes who didn't go to the Game because Pryor wasn't starting and you booed the backup before he even played a real game for the Raiders. If this is the avg Raider fan....then that is shameful.
JONES
RT, don't be a hypocrite, you write the same damn shit. Hayden did not have a crazy history of injuries...stop painting pictures.
As far as your doubts about Hayden, who cares, that has nothing to do with how he will turn out. Once again, your 'doubts' are based on bullshit and that is exactly the point.
He had a tough go and he cannot be judged until at least mid way through next year. Using 20/20 on draft day is once again, not brain surgery, so scoring points for yourself there = no.
Knapp hire was corrected and refusing the circumstance under which he was hired, just shows you are unwilling to allow the truth to enter your 'reasoning'. You just want to keep hammering, "they hired him", period = insincere.
You wrote that YOU EXPECTED MORE from this group, I asked you what you expected = crickets. I don't remember you predicting an 8-8 season this year, so tell us what you were actually expecting from this year when most of your heroes (media) were questioning if the Raiders would even win A GAME.
Oh, you called the Flynn saga a DEBACLE, is that not close to ENORMOUS MISTAKE? You keep pounding these points, RT...and you refuse to acknowledge all the good that is happening...why is that? Because it's popular with the avg idiot out there?
As far as your lying, you are playing deceitful games, using ANONYMOUS posts to further your agenda. If someone is being truthful, they don't need to do that. Wash off those brushes, RT, you don't need them, stick with truth, it's the only way.
JONES
Jones, you are just following the way paved by the crew:
Seize on select critiques, hammer at them and call them lies, bait the person into defending the critiques so that the conversation becomes all about the critiques, then complain about how the conversation has become negative.
All anyone has to do is read this thread from top to bottom to see how it works.
More discredit tactics from RT...can't refute what is written, so he attacks me...that IS SO CREW LIKE, hey RT? Not only are you a deceiver, you are also a hypocrite. Now you want to give the "crew" credit and I KNOW WHY, spill the beans, RT.
On select critiques? LOL, I asked you to NAME THEM which took the fucking jaws of life to get it out of you. Now you are saying I selected those critiques? Holy shit, the truth is starting to spill all over this site, and I love it....keep squirming, RT, keep digging that hole....
JONES
Answer the question, you expected more, tell the world what you expected, stop posing and answer the fucking question.
JONES
Inasmuch as I believe an overall positive direction exists for the work-in-progress, things have not been all rosy.
In fairness to the debate, and for readers’ edification:
McKenzie was hired before the SB in 2012, so really before the off-season started.
Then, Allen was hired January 26, 2012, and Knapp was hired within a week of that, on or about Feb. 1.
So the notion Allen had no choice but to hire Knapp is dubious.
Also, Matt Flynn cost the Raiders two draft picks (one is conditional in 2015). McKenzie restructured Flynn’s contract by increasing his 2013 base salary from $5.25 million to $6.5 million, all of which became guaranteed (reportedly a cap-saving move).
Also, as it turns out, Matt Flynn wasn’t the only Raider named Matt who was a bust at QB. Remember Lienart?
These are the facts, and they are (or should be) undisputed.
Flynn cost 1 pick because the other was voided once he was released.
Thanks for the time verification on the hiring's.
So you think OC's were banging down the door to coach in Oakland last year? You think Allen would have had the pick of the litter? OK, if that's what you believe, common sense would tell you otherwise.
Once again, you have to realize the circumstance, tough spot to be put in, they survived and it probably made them better down the road for going through it.
JONES
Agree with just about everything Raider Nate wrote, especially the part about staying aggressive. That killed the D this year. I think Raiders win at least two more games and are in the playoff hunt.
I like the idea of signing Oher and Mack, but if that happens, I think you draft a playmaker at WR or TE, a pass rushing DE, or maybe even a QB (or all of those in the first few rounds).
Disagree. Raiders do have an "it" guy on the OL already and it's Veldheer. Plus, I like what I've seen of Watson so far. I think he starts next year.
Don't give up on Hayden either. He'll be a good one if he can stay healthy.
Call me an idiot, an optimist, a dreamer, or delusional but ...
I believe in my heart & head that DJ Hayden will become a big time baller. Why? Physical skills, passion for football, and most importantly, strong mental toughness. All the boneheaded fans who have been writing off DJ, calling him a bust, just don't understand the importance of will and spirit. Oh well. I'd rather be in DJ's corner and wrong than giving up on guy who deserves a chance to shine in due time.
I agree Jack...on a similar note... I would rather be in the new regime's corner instead of cutting their legs out before they even get their feet soaked like many 'fans' are doing.
Being in this regime's corner is not the same as being behind Al Davis when he had proven far beyond a doubt that he should not have been running the Org.
In the name of what is best for the Oakland Raiders, we all should be backing this regime until they prove otherwise. No, it's not "crew" material to do that, it's what a good fan should do. If you (any fan) aren't supporting the new direction, what will you support?
If calling this years draft class a bust is being ahead of the curve = no thanks. If cutting the legs of the new regime is ahead of the curve = no thanks.
I will back this regime until proven otherwise...call that being a "crew"...wrong again
JONES
As I've said for quite a LONG time, the new regime needs and deserves year 3 to prove if they have what it takes. Year 3 to me is THE pivotal year whereby wins and losses is what I'll be tracking. No excuses, no more context, no more waiting. Anything less than 8 wins and I will be deeply disappointed. At the end of year 3, hard-line decisions should be made on the head coach, the GM, and the direction of the organization as a whole.
That's part of what is so compelling and good about the current process; when the appropriate time comes, it's likely that corrective decisions will be made. I don't see this organization ever lingering another 10 years with poor decision-making and mismanagement.
Thanks x. I say we don't have an "it" guy on the O-line because Veldheer has been out the majority of the year.
Wiz II is inconsistent, and I don't think he is "experienced" enough to be an effective center. He doesn't read the defensive line well enough to make adjustments. I think putting him at Guard for a few years will help establish that. That is why I think we should go after Alex Mack.
We need a captain of the O-line; and haven't had one since Barrett Robbins who was unbelievably cerebral. I don't think fans really understand how important of a key he really was in our playoff years under Gruden; and getting us to the Super Bowl. I think Alex Mack has that kind of potential.
I do like the potential I've seen with Watson, but he is a bit injury prone as well; but I don't view him as an "it" guy like Michael Oher.
If we sign Oher and Mack, then I agree. Our first pick should go after a #1 WR like Marquis Lee. Though it would be hard to pass if Jake Matthews was there, because that would solidify our O-line for a long time!
I like Mychal Rivera at TE, he needs to work on blocking though; but a lot of TE's out of college don't know how to block; especially with the League becoming a pass happy League.
Veldheer is a rare talent at LT. All the years Davis spent trying to fill the position by signing free agents paid off with a somewhat obscure draft pick.
I agree with possibly moving Wiz to guard and upgrading the center position. That could give the offense a big boost.
It will be interesting to see how the first round of the draft plays out. Raiders are still far enough removed from top level talent across their roster that picking best available player over position of need may be a viable approach.
Jones, look dude, you might actually be a personable dude, beyond your nothing-better-to-do-than-pick-cyber-fights, which is, to some degree, amusing. I read this take and throw up an opinion. It's been consistently long term. 2016. What else is there to say? The Raiders are about as on-board as Obamacare, and even the clowns have gone elsewhere. Take is running a really good blog for such a poor organization. I mean, there isn't much to talk about except why we THINK they suck, what we THINK might work, and, well, how long it will take. I think they will "suck" until the Broncos and Chiefs stop winning, but, by then the Raiders and Bolts will have winning records again. Can't you see the cycle? Plus, they would never beat the Seahawks in the big game anyway, so, the big yawn is upon Oaktown, and we will just have to wait. Until 2016. Or later. Why 2016. Dunno.
There... did I really keep your attention? I skipped all of yours. Good job, Take. Cya in 2014. Denver/New Engl will be a great championship (yes, KC will fold, in epic fashion), but Seattle will win the big one. OTB 2016 out.
Take: You run simply the best blog in The Nation.
I actually stopped reading a couple of years ago cuz I just couldn't stand Jones and his diatribes.
A blog is for responsible people to share their opinions - not get those opinions trashed by some cretin who thinks only his opinion matters.
I agree with most of your Takes. And I appreciate all the effort you put into the effort.
So, please, keep up the good work and don't let Jones draw you into his jerkweed arguments - just ignore his "doesn't have a life" BS.
Tinfoil
Yeah this guy Jones fights with everyone what a joke.
I check in about once a month. RT you write a great blog, fair, balanced and insightful.Keep up the great work.
I would come more often, but just as Tinfoil and a few others have mentioned its not fun when you got one guy taking up all the air here in such a hateful manner.
Go Raiders Go. Rock on Raider Take
Sandy
Thanks, amigos! Rock on, indeed.
Gameday thread is up.
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