The 49ers concluded their first week of 10 Santonio Holmes White jersey
OTAs last week, and quarterback Alex Smith told reporters that he felt great on the field. Absent from the field were his three primary receiving targets. Wideout Darrell Jackson will not participate with the team until training camp as he continues to recover from an injured toe that has plagued him since last season. Receivers Ashley Lelie (quad) and Arnaz Battle (hamstring) missed the last few days of OTAs for precautionary reasons. Despite the absence of his main receivers, Smith was on target and established a good rhythm with the players at his disposal. He was particularly impressed with Bryan Gilmore and Taylor Jacobs, completing a 30-yard pass to each of them. Although establishing a connection with his backup receivers is a good thing, Smith understands the importance of developing a solid rapport with his primary targets. "It's hard because I'll need those reps with those guys, but we do have plenty of time still in training camp," said Smith. Heading into his third season as the 49ers' signal-caller, Smith -- the No. 1 pick in the 2005 draft -- has yet to find a receiver whom he can depend on regularly. In his first two seasons, Smith hasn't had a single receiver gain more than 733 yards, a number that former 49ers Brandon Lloyd (2005) and Antonio Bryant (2006) accumulated.The most obvious choice from this year's group is the veteran Jackson, but that is contingent on him getting and staying healthy. He had three 1,000-yard seasons during his stint with the Seattle Seahawks and provides Smith with his most proven wideout to date. As a former first-round pick in 2002, Lelie is widely viewed as an underachiever. He had only one 1,000-yard season with the Denver Broncos in 2004, but his production has dropped each year since. He has an opportunity to turn his career around with the 49ers. He'll offer Smith a legitimate deep threat. Battle has increased his production every year. In 2006, he achieved career highs in receptions (59) and receiving yards (686), 10 Santonio Holmes black jersey
and he should continue to be a solid option for Smith. When Smith has the opportunity to work with these three players, San Francisco's offense should become much more efficient. One thing's for sure: Smith is looking forward to having these guys back on the field. Take the first step towards an online degree at UniversityDegreeFinder.com
2010年12月9日星期四
2010年12月2日星期四
Tennessee Titans NFL Preview Steve McNair
The Tennessee Titans had high expectations heading into the 2004 season, but those were dashed early on after a rash of injuries. The most notable injury was to QB Steve McNair, who even contemplated retirement at the end of last season. The second most notable injury was to Chris Brown; the man who 10 Santonio Holmes black jersey
replaced Titan great Eddie George. Jeff Fisher returns for his 11th season and with all the free agent losses the team has incurred, this may prove to be his toughest assignment yet.Team Strengths: Yes, even with all the free agent departures, most notably WR Derrick Mason and CB Samari Rolle (both went to the Baltimore Ravens) there do remain a few strong points. Last month, the Tennessee Titans acquired RB Travis Henry, who had been displaced in Buffalo. This gives them two 1,000 yard rushers. Henry went over 1,300 for the Bills in both 2002 and 2003, but lost his job to the team's top pick in 2003, Willis McGahee. No matter which one starts, both Travis Henry and Chris Brown will see action and this will help take a ton of pressure off Steve McNair.The Tennessee Titans had a great 2005 NFL Draft, not only getting West Virginia CB Adam Pac Man Jones (currently a holdout), but also adding three guys who give them much needed depth at wide receiver. Brandon Jones, Courtney Roby, and Roydell Williams won't come close to replacing Mason's numbers, but all three could develop into solid NFL players. Coach Fisher has also been impressed with the work second round pick OT Michael Roos has put in so far in camp; he could earn a starting role sometime during the season.Bringing in Norm Chow, who helped engineer the potent USC Trojans offense during their championship seasons in 2003 and 2004, as offensive coordinator may give this young offense a boost. His system will emphasize Steve McNair getting rid of the ball early, spread the ball around, and mix in the run with his two horses. Chow will definitely be an asset to the Titans offense.Weaknesses: Way too many holes and inexperienced guys on defense. The Titans will benefit from having OLB Peter Sirmon and the Rocky's (Calmus and Boiman) back and healthy to complement Keith Bulluck, who I believe is one of the best in the league. But, fact remains, the secondary was weak last season, and with Rolle and Andre Dyson gone, it could be worse. Pacman Jones is considered their most talented player in the secondary, but if he doesn't get into camp soon, or gets in trouble with the law again, there could be major problems (you know you're in trouble when you're counting on a rookie to lead your secondary). Tony Beckham and Andre Woolfolk will hold down the reigns for now, with the team hoping safety Tank Williams will be ready for the season after tearing his ACL mid-way through 2004. Lamont Thompson is the other safety and there's not much depth behind them.The front four is talented, but either unproven or injury prone. DT Albert Haynesworth is the best of the bunch, but his last season was cut short by elbow problems. They do have depth on the defensive line, but those guys have very little experience.Another glaring weakness could be in the kicking game, where Joe Nedney and Gary "Father Time" Anderson were let go. That leaves journeymen Ola Kimrin and Rob Bironas battling for place kicking duties. The punt and kick return jobs are also up for grabs since Jones is still holding out.Also WR Drew Bennett had a nice season in 2004 (80 catches 1,247 yards) but will need the young guys to grow up fast. TE Ben Troupe is improving and will be a nice target for Steve McNair.Overview: This is going to be a very long year for Fisher's team. Too many questions but not enough players to answer them. Having a healthy Steve McNair would be an upgrade from Billy Volek, but with all his injuries it's not a certainty. Chow will make the team interesting to watch, but none of these young receivers are going to replace Mason, which 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
leaves only Bennett as the lone dependable target downfield.As I stated earlier, the defense could be horrible; the best you can hope for is below average. This is not good enough when you play Peyton Manning, Byron Leftwich, and David Carr twice a year. The Tennessee Titans will be hard pressed to match last years 5-11 record; 4-12 or 3-13 is very possible
replaced Titan great Eddie George. Jeff Fisher returns for his 11th season and with all the free agent losses the team has incurred, this may prove to be his toughest assignment yet.Team Strengths: Yes, even with all the free agent departures, most notably WR Derrick Mason and CB Samari Rolle (both went to the Baltimore Ravens) there do remain a few strong points. Last month, the Tennessee Titans acquired RB Travis Henry, who had been displaced in Buffalo. This gives them two 1,000 yard rushers. Henry went over 1,300 for the Bills in both 2002 and 2003, but lost his job to the team's top pick in 2003, Willis McGahee. No matter which one starts, both Travis Henry and Chris Brown will see action and this will help take a ton of pressure off Steve McNair.The Tennessee Titans had a great 2005 NFL Draft, not only getting West Virginia CB Adam Pac Man Jones (currently a holdout), but also adding three guys who give them much needed depth at wide receiver. Brandon Jones, Courtney Roby, and Roydell Williams won't come close to replacing Mason's numbers, but all three could develop into solid NFL players. Coach Fisher has also been impressed with the work second round pick OT Michael Roos has put in so far in camp; he could earn a starting role sometime during the season.Bringing in Norm Chow, who helped engineer the potent USC Trojans offense during their championship seasons in 2003 and 2004, as offensive coordinator may give this young offense a boost. His system will emphasize Steve McNair getting rid of the ball early, spread the ball around, and mix in the run with his two horses. Chow will definitely be an asset to the Titans offense.Weaknesses: Way too many holes and inexperienced guys on defense. The Titans will benefit from having OLB Peter Sirmon and the Rocky's (Calmus and Boiman) back and healthy to complement Keith Bulluck, who I believe is one of the best in the league. But, fact remains, the secondary was weak last season, and with Rolle and Andre Dyson gone, it could be worse. Pacman Jones is considered their most talented player in the secondary, but if he doesn't get into camp soon, or gets in trouble with the law again, there could be major problems (you know you're in trouble when you're counting on a rookie to lead your secondary). Tony Beckham and Andre Woolfolk will hold down the reigns for now, with the team hoping safety Tank Williams will be ready for the season after tearing his ACL mid-way through 2004. Lamont Thompson is the other safety and there's not much depth behind them.The front four is talented, but either unproven or injury prone. DT Albert Haynesworth is the best of the bunch, but his last season was cut short by elbow problems. They do have depth on the defensive line, but those guys have very little experience.Another glaring weakness could be in the kicking game, where Joe Nedney and Gary "Father Time" Anderson were let go. That leaves journeymen Ola Kimrin and Rob Bironas battling for place kicking duties. The punt and kick return jobs are also up for grabs since Jones is still holding out.Also WR Drew Bennett had a nice season in 2004 (80 catches 1,247 yards) but will need the young guys to grow up fast. TE Ben Troupe is improving and will be a nice target for Steve McNair.Overview: This is going to be a very long year for Fisher's team. Too many questions but not enough players to answer them. Having a healthy Steve McNair would be an upgrade from Billy Volek, but with all his injuries it's not a certainty. Chow will make the team interesting to watch, but none of these young receivers are going to replace Mason, which 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
leaves only Bennett as the lone dependable target downfield.As I stated earlier, the defense could be horrible; the best you can hope for is below average. This is not good enough when you play Peyton Manning, Byron Leftwich, and David Carr twice a year. The Tennessee Titans will be hard pressed to match last years 5-11 record; 4-12 or 3-13 is very possible
Franchise tight end Dallas Clark won’t be burdened by franchise tag
Who else would use Dallas Clark the way the do? It’s not in the manipulative buy-a-lady-jewels-and-get-no-return sense of the word “use,” either: the team gets indispensable value from an elite pass-catching tight end, while he gets to remain with a squad that employs him utterly perfectly and features a cast around him ranging from all-time greats to2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
current very goods. Locked in theoretically through 2013 thanks to his new deal, Clark has plenty of time to continue working successfully with this little proficient group.Clark earned his deal with great tight end-level numbers last season, nabbing 58 catches for 616 yards and an impressive 11 touchdowns. While they stand on their own, his contributions were even more vital when one considers that he stepped up when necessary. He caught 30 passes during the Super Bowl season; while he only played 12 regular season games in 2006 compared to 15 last year, the fact remains that he filled a void caused by Marvin Harrison’s absence this past year, which gives crucial significance to his statistical upsurge.And he brings more than numbers. Clark is someone fans really need to watch play in order to appreciate: specifically, his calmness during the normal duress of an NFL game is remarkable. Action percolating all around, he coolly finds an open patch of territory, makes his reception without the slightest trace of franticness, and heads downfield while eluding opponents with total composure. In the midst of a violent tempest, Clark comes across like a very athletic Bob Ross without the white guy Afro.He also serves as a throwback in a more direct manner regarding this franchise and his position. While in Baltimore, the Colts featured one of the first tight ends who dominated the game primarily as a receiver in John Mackey; Clark, who won the 2002 Mackey Award at Iowa as college football’s best tight end, is extending that legacy, even if he’s certainly not in the earlier player’s class as a field-stretching trailblazer en route to the Hall of Fame.Threatening the defense as a receiver from the end of the offensive line is devastating to the opponent and a remarkably unique gift for the player in question to possess, not to mention that Clark can also usefully line up as a wideout in a demonstration of skill paired with versatility.The 24th overall pick of the 2003 draft, he’s also part of a group of current receivers on his team that has excelled fantastically after being drafted in the second half of the first round, one that includes Harrison, Reggie Wayne, and promising youngster Anthony Gonzalez. It’s a testament to the abilities of both Bill Polian and Peyton Manning, but it also indicates that each member of the platoon contributes without individually demanding much attention. Talent and chemistry combine and lead to annual dominance.And Clark will be part of that unit for at least a few more years. An added bonus of the long-term contract is that neither this team nor its fans will have to deal with a year of franchise tag resentment by the player, an understandable frustration for stars who want lasting security in an insecure profession. To be accurate, he did spend approximately 24 hours under the label, as the team tagged him on February 19 before he signed this deal on the 20th; I feel it’s safe to declare the contentious day 10 Santonio Holmes White jersey
won’t affect his play in 2008.Plus, the tight end position won’t have to be addressed in either free agency or the draft, meaning the team can focus its attention on other positions or even relax as other teams fight and claw over available receivers.Now, Clark gets stability instead of being forced to endure a single-year deal while the team gets to keep an exceptional tight end in its arsenal. Helping each other out is a lot better than one party heartlessly mooching off the second, as both the franchise and receiver will mutually benefit from a contract that means he’ll keep bewildering pass defenses for some time.
current very goods. Locked in theoretically through 2013 thanks to his new deal, Clark has plenty of time to continue working successfully with this little proficient group.Clark earned his deal with great tight end-level numbers last season, nabbing 58 catches for 616 yards and an impressive 11 touchdowns. While they stand on their own, his contributions were even more vital when one considers that he stepped up when necessary. He caught 30 passes during the Super Bowl season; while he only played 12 regular season games in 2006 compared to 15 last year, the fact remains that he filled a void caused by Marvin Harrison’s absence this past year, which gives crucial significance to his statistical upsurge.And he brings more than numbers. Clark is someone fans really need to watch play in order to appreciate: specifically, his calmness during the normal duress of an NFL game is remarkable. Action percolating all around, he coolly finds an open patch of territory, makes his reception without the slightest trace of franticness, and heads downfield while eluding opponents with total composure. In the midst of a violent tempest, Clark comes across like a very athletic Bob Ross without the white guy Afro.He also serves as a throwback in a more direct manner regarding this franchise and his position. While in Baltimore, the Colts featured one of the first tight ends who dominated the game primarily as a receiver in John Mackey; Clark, who won the 2002 Mackey Award at Iowa as college football’s best tight end, is extending that legacy, even if he’s certainly not in the earlier player’s class as a field-stretching trailblazer en route to the Hall of Fame.Threatening the defense as a receiver from the end of the offensive line is devastating to the opponent and a remarkably unique gift for the player in question to possess, not to mention that Clark can also usefully line up as a wideout in a demonstration of skill paired with versatility.The 24th overall pick of the 2003 draft, he’s also part of a group of current receivers on his team that has excelled fantastically after being drafted in the second half of the first round, one that includes Harrison, Reggie Wayne, and promising youngster Anthony Gonzalez. It’s a testament to the abilities of both Bill Polian and Peyton Manning, but it also indicates that each member of the platoon contributes without individually demanding much attention. Talent and chemistry combine and lead to annual dominance.And Clark will be part of that unit for at least a few more years. An added bonus of the long-term contract is that neither this team nor its fans will have to deal with a year of franchise tag resentment by the player, an understandable frustration for stars who want lasting security in an insecure profession. To be accurate, he did spend approximately 24 hours under the label, as the team tagged him on February 19 before he signed this deal on the 20th; I feel it’s safe to declare the contentious day 10 Santonio Holmes White jersey
won’t affect his play in 2008.Plus, the tight end position won’t have to be addressed in either free agency or the draft, meaning the team can focus its attention on other positions or even relax as other teams fight and claw over available receivers.Now, Clark gets stability instead of being forced to endure a single-year deal while the team gets to keep an exceptional tight end in its arsenal. Helping each other out is a lot better than one party heartlessly mooching off the second, as both the franchise and receiver will mutually benefit from a contract that means he’ll keep bewildering pass defenses for some time.
2010年12月1日星期三
Seattle Seahawks MNF Preview
On Sunday, teams of the AFC West had no difficulty winning their respective games. Denver rolled through Pittsburgh, 31-20; Kansas City topped St. Louis by 14; and San Diego ran through Cleveland, 32-25.On Monday night, the remaining one-fourth of the division, the , will compete with a Steelers 10 Santonio Holmes jersey
former one-fifth of the AFC West, the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle, which was a member of the West up until the league's re-alignment in 2002, has a long, competitive history with the once-rival Raiders. Oakland holds the historical advantage over its former foe, 28-23; however, just 68 points separate the all-time head-to-head matchup.Another set of unusual circumstances -- due to both injury and the weather -- will likely make for another unpredictable meeting between the two teams.With the Raiders coming off two consecutive wins and Seattle coming off two losses, let's take a look how Oakland can make it three in a row for both teams.Derrick Burgess and the downpour: The 26-year-old Seneca Wallace will be starting just his second NFL game on Monday night. The Iowa State grad, who started last week in a 35-28 loss at Kansas City, completed 50 percent of his passes for 198 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. In the previous week, Wallace came in to replace starting quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, who injured his right knee early in the second half. In the face of pressure, Wallace threw two interceptions and fumbled twice, losing one, en route to a 31-13 thrashing at the hands of Minnesota.On Monday night, the forecast for the young quarterback is equally as gloomy -- literally. The gameday forecast calls for a 100 percent chance of precipitation, with winds from the south gusting at 21 mph. Veteran defensive end Derrick Burgess, who entered the week tied for the NFL's fifth-ranked sack spot, will likely have no trouble in the rain repeating his last two weeks performances. The 28-year-old has recorded four sacks in the team's last two wins; and, on Monday, may be lining up opposite backup Tom Ashworth, who would replace injured starting right tackle Sean Locklear. By Tuesday morning, Burgess may find himself much closer to the top of the NFL's sack list.Andrew Walter and mistakes: Walter referred to his offensive showing in last week's win over the Pittsburgh Steelers as "ridiculous" and "pathetic." The 24-year-old quarterback completed just five passes for 51 yards and one interception in the team's 20-13 win. The one interception, however, was Walter's lone turnover on the game, as opposed to the two turnovers per game he had averaged in his previous four starts.On Monday, Walter will need to remain equally as disciplined, while still trying to improve in both completions and yardage against Seattle's 28th-ranked pass defense. Conditions will be wet and unwelcoming for the sophomore quarterback; however, he will need to find a way to win the game-long battle of field position, which will be dependent on his ability to hold onto the ball. With one of the league's top-ranked defenses on his side, Walter should have no problem settling for punts instead of risky throws.Rushing attack: LaMont Jordan, as usual, is listed as "questionable" heading into the team's prime-time appearance. Whether he appears or not, however, shouldn't affect the Raiders' game plan. Running backs Justin Fargas and Zack Crockett have received the bulk of the team's carries over the past two weeks, working efficiently behind a subpar offensive line.Although Jordan practiced on Friday, Fargas should remain a viable option for the Raiders' rushing attack. In two wins, the 220-pound halfback has carried the ball 41 times for just 121 yards, but has reduced the 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
number of costly backwards runs that Jordan frequently turned in. If Oakland expects to win its first game on the road, both running backs will need to consistently run north-to-south. If Fargas and Jordan can flashback to the days of Garner and Wheatley, the should have no trouble defeating the former division-rival Seattle Seahawks.Want to be in the Raiders mailbag? Visit RaidersLive.com to submit your questions and comments for the Nov. 17 mailbag. (18)
former one-fifth of the AFC West, the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle, which was a member of the West up until the league's re-alignment in 2002, has a long, competitive history with the once-rival Raiders. Oakland holds the historical advantage over its former foe, 28-23; however, just 68 points separate the all-time head-to-head matchup.Another set of unusual circumstances -- due to both injury and the weather -- will likely make for another unpredictable meeting between the two teams.With the Raiders coming off two consecutive wins and Seattle coming off two losses, let's take a look how Oakland can make it three in a row for both teams.Derrick Burgess and the downpour: The 26-year-old Seneca Wallace will be starting just his second NFL game on Monday night. The Iowa State grad, who started last week in a 35-28 loss at Kansas City, completed 50 percent of his passes for 198 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. In the previous week, Wallace came in to replace starting quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, who injured his right knee early in the second half. In the face of pressure, Wallace threw two interceptions and fumbled twice, losing one, en route to a 31-13 thrashing at the hands of Minnesota.On Monday night, the forecast for the young quarterback is equally as gloomy -- literally. The gameday forecast calls for a 100 percent chance of precipitation, with winds from the south gusting at 21 mph. Veteran defensive end Derrick Burgess, who entered the week tied for the NFL's fifth-ranked sack spot, will likely have no trouble in the rain repeating his last two weeks performances. The 28-year-old has recorded four sacks in the team's last two wins; and, on Monday, may be lining up opposite backup Tom Ashworth, who would replace injured starting right tackle Sean Locklear. By Tuesday morning, Burgess may find himself much closer to the top of the NFL's sack list.Andrew Walter and mistakes: Walter referred to his offensive showing in last week's win over the Pittsburgh Steelers as "ridiculous" and "pathetic." The 24-year-old quarterback completed just five passes for 51 yards and one interception in the team's 20-13 win. The one interception, however, was Walter's lone turnover on the game, as opposed to the two turnovers per game he had averaged in his previous four starts.On Monday, Walter will need to remain equally as disciplined, while still trying to improve in both completions and yardage against Seattle's 28th-ranked pass defense. Conditions will be wet and unwelcoming for the sophomore quarterback; however, he will need to find a way to win the game-long battle of field position, which will be dependent on his ability to hold onto the ball. With one of the league's top-ranked defenses on his side, Walter should have no problem settling for punts instead of risky throws.Rushing attack: LaMont Jordan, as usual, is listed as "questionable" heading into the team's prime-time appearance. Whether he appears or not, however, shouldn't affect the Raiders' game plan. Running backs Justin Fargas and Zack Crockett have received the bulk of the team's carries over the past two weeks, working efficiently behind a subpar offensive line.Although Jordan practiced on Friday, Fargas should remain a viable option for the Raiders' rushing attack. In two wins, the 220-pound halfback has carried the ball 41 times for just 121 yards, but has reduced the 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
number of costly backwards runs that Jordan frequently turned in. If Oakland expects to win its first game on the road, both running backs will need to consistently run north-to-south. If Fargas and Jordan can flashback to the days of Garner and Wheatley, the should have no trouble defeating the former division-rival Seattle Seahawks.Want to be in the Raiders mailbag? Visit RaidersLive.com to submit your questions and comments for the Nov. 17 mailbag. (18)
Second-Half Woes" Commentary Week 11
For the second week in a row, the went into halftime leading against a formidable AFC West opponent. And for the second week in a row, they relinquished that lead en route to a painful 17-13 loss.So what exactly is going wrong? Why can't the Raiders transfer their early-game success into4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
the latter stages of contests? Apparently, it has little to do with who is starting at quarterback. Last week, it was youngster Andrew Walter who was at the helm when Oakland crumbled. This week, it was veteran Aaron Brooks calling the signals and failing to lead his team to the win.Some might blame the defense for these second-half collapses, but the reality is that Raiders' stop unit has given up only 20 total points in the second stanzas of those two ballgames.So what it is it, then?The easy answer is simply "offense" (or lack thereof). Oakland has failed to score a single point in the second half of its last two contests against the Broncos and Chiefs, with turnovers and the lack of a consistent running attack serving as the main culprits responsible for this offensive ineptitude. Against Denver, it was two fourth-quarter fumbles by Walter that sealed the loss. On Sunday, it was a late Brooks interception that foiled a late rally. Mind you, the Raiders attempted to run the football in the second half of both contests, but were simply unable to generate enough first downs or run enough time off the clock to preserve a victory.But as with most things in the NFL, these two crushing losses cannot be pinned on just one aspect of the game. The defense also played a part in these tragic results, allowing its opponents to mount sustained scoring drives and generating just one turnover in four quarters of second-half play.Now here's the part were a silver lining can be found:The 2-8 Raiders are a fairly young football team that has actually outperformed the expectations laid out for it early on the season. And what's more, Oakland came fairly close to upsetting two legitimate playoff contenders. This past week's effort was especially impressive, Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
considering that KC boasts one of the most imposing home-field advantages in all of football.In the end, though, nobody really cares about moral victories. But at least the Raiders are showing that they are capable of playing with some of their respected AFC West brethren. Hopefully for Oakland, the team can somehow continue that trend next week against red-hot San Diego Chargers.Get daily insights at (27)
the latter stages of contests? Apparently, it has little to do with who is starting at quarterback. Last week, it was youngster Andrew Walter who was at the helm when Oakland crumbled. This week, it was veteran Aaron Brooks calling the signals and failing to lead his team to the win.Some might blame the defense for these second-half collapses, but the reality is that Raiders' stop unit has given up only 20 total points in the second stanzas of those two ballgames.So what it is it, then?The easy answer is simply "offense" (or lack thereof). Oakland has failed to score a single point in the second half of its last two contests against the Broncos and Chiefs, with turnovers and the lack of a consistent running attack serving as the main culprits responsible for this offensive ineptitude. Against Denver, it was two fourth-quarter fumbles by Walter that sealed the loss. On Sunday, it was a late Brooks interception that foiled a late rally. Mind you, the Raiders attempted to run the football in the second half of both contests, but were simply unable to generate enough first downs or run enough time off the clock to preserve a victory.But as with most things in the NFL, these two crushing losses cannot be pinned on just one aspect of the game. The defense also played a part in these tragic results, allowing its opponents to mount sustained scoring drives and generating just one turnover in four quarters of second-half play.Now here's the part were a silver lining can be found:The 2-8 Raiders are a fairly young football team that has actually outperformed the expectations laid out for it early on the season. And what's more, Oakland came fairly close to upsetting two legitimate playoff contenders. This past week's effort was especially impressive, Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
considering that KC boasts one of the most imposing home-field advantages in all of football.In the end, though, nobody really cares about moral victories. But at least the Raiders are showing that they are capable of playing with some of their respected AFC West brethren. Hopefully for Oakland, the team can somehow continue that trend next week against red-hot San Diego Chargers.Get daily insights at (27)
"Quarter-season MVP is Tom Cable"
Someone somewhere is doing something right when Robert Gallery has made it through four games without allowing a single sack. The man responsible for that is offensive line coach Tom Cable.He's also the person responsible for the Raiders' two early wins this season.Cable, who 4 Brett Favre White jersey
spent the 2006 season with the Atlanta Falcons, came to Oakland during the offseason, bringing a new, improved zone blocking scheme with him. Last season, the 42-year-old used the same system in Atlanta, and the Falcons finished first in the NFL in rushing offense with 183.7 yards per game.This season, it's the same story, different team.One-fourth of the way through the season, Oakland leads the NFL in rushing with 194.2 yards per game. In a 35-17 win over the Miami Dolphins this past Sunday, Cable's line led the way for 299 yards on the ground. They also allowed only one sack."[At first] I didn't like it," running back LaMont Jordan told Steve Corkran of the Mercury News, "but I had to buy into it in order to be successful."Jordan definitely bought into it.Despite suffering a back injury midway through Week 4 (the severity is still unknown), Jordan has recorded 424 yards and two touchdowns on 84 carries. That's 106 yards per game and 5.0 yards per carry.Last season, with the highly disappointing duo of Jackie Slater and Irv Eatman leading the O-line, Jordan averaged 48.2 yards per game and just 3.8 yards per carry. The team as a whole averaged just 94.9 yards each outing; that's 99.3 yards fewer than the Raiders are racking up this season."This offense is built around the running game scheme, and we're doing a good job executing," Jordan added.The same can be said in the passing game, too.At this point last year, Oakland's line had already given up 20 sacks. This season, half of that: 10 sacks. As a result, the Raiders have put up a division-leading 102 points this season; the closest to that mark is the Broncos with just 72."I'm more pleased with our offensive line than any position on our team," head coach Lane Kiffin said last week.As of Week 4, Oakland's starting front line is made up of tackles Barry Sims and Cornell Green, guards Robert Gallery and Cooper Carlisle as well as center Jeremy Newberry. Backup Jake Grove has also seen considerable time in replace of Newberry at center. Of the five starters, only two (Gallery and Sims) are returning Raiders, while Green, Carlisle and Newberry were all offseason acquisitions."I'm happy for the offensive line," Jordan said. "Those guys got beat up all last year."Both physically and mentally.Gallery surrendered 10? sacks and quickly became the weekly center of criticism, while Grove gave up 7? and Sims missed 12 games to injury.Combined, the three have allowed Vikings Brett Favre jersey
just 3? sacks this season and are yet to miss a single snap because of injury.Attribute that success directly to Cable, who has utilized the players' strengths to the fullest."They study the game the right way and they're really intelligent guys," Cable said of his O-line.It may have just taken the right teacher to bring out that intelligence.
spent the 2006 season with the Atlanta Falcons, came to Oakland during the offseason, bringing a new, improved zone blocking scheme with him. Last season, the 42-year-old used the same system in Atlanta, and the Falcons finished first in the NFL in rushing offense with 183.7 yards per game.This season, it's the same story, different team.One-fourth of the way through the season, Oakland leads the NFL in rushing with 194.2 yards per game. In a 35-17 win over the Miami Dolphins this past Sunday, Cable's line led the way for 299 yards on the ground. They also allowed only one sack."[At first] I didn't like it," running back LaMont Jordan told Steve Corkran of the Mercury News, "but I had to buy into it in order to be successful."Jordan definitely bought into it.Despite suffering a back injury midway through Week 4 (the severity is still unknown), Jordan has recorded 424 yards and two touchdowns on 84 carries. That's 106 yards per game and 5.0 yards per carry.Last season, with the highly disappointing duo of Jackie Slater and Irv Eatman leading the O-line, Jordan averaged 48.2 yards per game and just 3.8 yards per carry. The team as a whole averaged just 94.9 yards each outing; that's 99.3 yards fewer than the Raiders are racking up this season."This offense is built around the running game scheme, and we're doing a good job executing," Jordan added.The same can be said in the passing game, too.At this point last year, Oakland's line had already given up 20 sacks. This season, half of that: 10 sacks. As a result, the Raiders have put up a division-leading 102 points this season; the closest to that mark is the Broncos with just 72."I'm more pleased with our offensive line than any position on our team," head coach Lane Kiffin said last week.As of Week 4, Oakland's starting front line is made up of tackles Barry Sims and Cornell Green, guards Robert Gallery and Cooper Carlisle as well as center Jeremy Newberry. Backup Jake Grove has also seen considerable time in replace of Newberry at center. Of the five starters, only two (Gallery and Sims) are returning Raiders, while Green, Carlisle and Newberry were all offseason acquisitions."I'm happy for the offensive line," Jordan said. "Those guys got beat up all last year."Both physically and mentally.Gallery surrendered 10? sacks and quickly became the weekly center of criticism, while Grove gave up 7? and Sims missed 12 games to injury.Combined, the three have allowed Vikings Brett Favre jersey
just 3? sacks this season and are yet to miss a single snap because of injury.Attribute that success directly to Cable, who has utilized the players' strengths to the fullest."They study the game the right way and they're really intelligent guys," Cable said of his O-line.It may have just taken the right teacher to bring out that intelligence.
"Two linebackers primed for Pro Bowl run"
The may not be playing past December, but that doesn't mean every member of the team needs to suffer.The 2008 Pro Bowl voting polls opened this week -- yes, they open this early -- and the race to Honolulu is officially underway. The game won't be played until Feb. 10 of Steelers 10 Santonio Holmes jersey
next year, exactly 115 days from now. Yes, just 2,760 hours away. Don't blink.But it's never too early to pick favorites.Over the past two NFL seasons, only one Raider has made his way onto a Pro Bowl roster. Defensive end Derrick Burgess, who recorded 107 tackles and 27 sacks from 2005-06, started in the game two years ago and last year served as a backup to Miami's Jason Taylor.Cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha was also invited to make the trip to Hawaii belatedly last season, but the last-second offer left the unprepared Asomugha without a flight.It doesn't appear either will make the trip this year.Burgess has just one tackle and no sacks through six weeks, while Asomugha is yet to snag his first interception of the season.There are, however, two new candidates ready to impact the 2008 ballot for the Raiders.Young linebackers Thomas Howard, 24, and Kirk Morrison, 25, have combined for just five seasons of NFL exposure, but have made enough noise early this year to gain serious acclamation. On Wednesday, ESPN.com writer Len Pasquarelli, a 25-plus-year NFL analyst, recognized both athletic linebackers as paving the way for an up-and-coming trend in the NFL."Through six weeks, Oakland strongside linebacker Thomas Howard is tied with Dallas cornerback Anthony Henry for the league lead, with four interceptions," wrote Pasquarelli. "And three other linebackers, including Howard's teammate, Raiders standout middle linebacker Kirk Morrison, have three pickoffs each."At this point, it's not unreasonable to consider both players as Pro Bowl-caliber defenders.At his current pace, Howard will finish the year with 99 tackles, 13 interceptions, three sacks and 19 passes defensed. Already, the former second-round pick has found the end zone twice on defense.His counterpart, the 240-pound Morrison, is in position to put up comparable numbers. The ex-San Diego State standout is en route to finish the year with 106 tackles, 10 picks and 19 passes defensed. He has also forced a fumble."Compare that a year ago when no linebacker recorded more than three picks for the entire season," Pasquarelli added.If you've watched the Raiders at all this season, that seems hard to believe.Already, Morrison and Howard average just over one pick each game a third of the way through the season.Last year's Pro Bowl starter at middle linebacker for the AFC, former Denver Bronco Al Wilson, whose severe neck injury left him without a team this season, recorded 101 tackles, one sack and no interceptions in 2006. Morrison is on pace to shatter that tackle total and has already eclipsed the INT mark.Alongside Wilson, the top two AFC outside linebackers, Shawne Merriman (San Diego) and Adalius Thomas (Baltimore), together averaged just 73 tackles and one interception each last season; instead, they garnered votes by combining for an impressive 28 sacks.Howard may be able to Vikings Brett Favre jersey
find his way onto the roster via the interception route.Although, this early in the season, rest assured neither player is looking ahead to Feb. 10.Both youngsters are focused on Oct. 21, when the 2-3 Raiders host the 3-3 Kansas City Chiefs at McAfee Coliseum.It's never too early to give credit where credit's due, though.Dish out your own credit, Raider Nation: Vote for Nos. 52 and 53 now.
next year, exactly 115 days from now. Yes, just 2,760 hours away. Don't blink.But it's never too early to pick favorites.Over the past two NFL seasons, only one Raider has made his way onto a Pro Bowl roster. Defensive end Derrick Burgess, who recorded 107 tackles and 27 sacks from 2005-06, started in the game two years ago and last year served as a backup to Miami's Jason Taylor.Cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha was also invited to make the trip to Hawaii belatedly last season, but the last-second offer left the unprepared Asomugha without a flight.It doesn't appear either will make the trip this year.Burgess has just one tackle and no sacks through six weeks, while Asomugha is yet to snag his first interception of the season.There are, however, two new candidates ready to impact the 2008 ballot for the Raiders.Young linebackers Thomas Howard, 24, and Kirk Morrison, 25, have combined for just five seasons of NFL exposure, but have made enough noise early this year to gain serious acclamation. On Wednesday, ESPN.com writer Len Pasquarelli, a 25-plus-year NFL analyst, recognized both athletic linebackers as paving the way for an up-and-coming trend in the NFL."Through six weeks, Oakland strongside linebacker Thomas Howard is tied with Dallas cornerback Anthony Henry for the league lead, with four interceptions," wrote Pasquarelli. "And three other linebackers, including Howard's teammate, Raiders standout middle linebacker Kirk Morrison, have three pickoffs each."At this point, it's not unreasonable to consider both players as Pro Bowl-caliber defenders.At his current pace, Howard will finish the year with 99 tackles, 13 interceptions, three sacks and 19 passes defensed. Already, the former second-round pick has found the end zone twice on defense.His counterpart, the 240-pound Morrison, is in position to put up comparable numbers. The ex-San Diego State standout is en route to finish the year with 106 tackles, 10 picks and 19 passes defensed. He has also forced a fumble."Compare that a year ago when no linebacker recorded more than three picks for the entire season," Pasquarelli added.If you've watched the Raiders at all this season, that seems hard to believe.Already, Morrison and Howard average just over one pick each game a third of the way through the season.Last year's Pro Bowl starter at middle linebacker for the AFC, former Denver Bronco Al Wilson, whose severe neck injury left him without a team this season, recorded 101 tackles, one sack and no interceptions in 2006. Morrison is on pace to shatter that tackle total and has already eclipsed the INT mark.Alongside Wilson, the top two AFC outside linebackers, Shawne Merriman (San Diego) and Adalius Thomas (Baltimore), together averaged just 73 tackles and one interception each last season; instead, they garnered votes by combining for an impressive 28 sacks.Howard may be able to Vikings Brett Favre jersey
find his way onto the roster via the interception route.Although, this early in the season, rest assured neither player is looking ahead to Feb. 10.Both youngsters are focused on Oct. 21, when the 2-3 Raiders host the 3-3 Kansas City Chiefs at McAfee Coliseum.It's never too early to give credit where credit's due, though.Dish out your own credit, Raider Nation: Vote for Nos. 52 and 53 now.
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