DA RAIDERS
Footballguy
i'm willing to give reggie more time. HC is a problem. harbaugh would be pretty cool, just don't see it happening. and that leaves them with what? as i said before, the coaching staff is reggie's biggest problem
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2014 Oakland Raiders Regular Season Thread (2 Viewers)
- Thread starter Raiderfan32904
- Start date
Chaka
Footballguy
I know there have been a lot of excellent analyses floating around here correlating YPA vs QB success. It's a pretty important measure as total yards and TDs can be inflated by number of attempts.
As far as other rookie QBs are concerned you would need to compare TDs/game & yards/game as they have not all started the same number.
Raider Nation
Devil's Advocate
I'm torn between being proud of these young bucks and screaming at them for blowing blue-chipper draft position. 
Chaka
Footballguy
Actually I don't think that is enough said by any stretch of the imagination. Better OC and WRs will help but he still needs make the throws and I think it is entirely unfair to place the blame everywhere except on the guy who touches the ball on every play.
Chaka
Footballguy
RaiderBones
Footballguy
Chaka said:
I never said Carr shouldn't shoulder some of the blame. That being said everything should be taken into account including the atrocious receiving core.Chaka said:
Sarlakticacid
Footballguy
He has given us 3 home wins in a row (KC was on a 5 game streak going in, SF was 3-1 in its 4 previous games, Buf was 3-1 going in and they had played some great games Vs Den and GB). The oline has protected well. He told Olsen to stick with the running game this week and it came through (wish he had done this earlier in the season along with giving Murray a look earlier). Not saying that he is the best candidate around but gotta give him credit for what he has doneChaka said:
Sarlakticacid
Footballguy
How does everyone feel about the OC and DC performances since the HC change?
I have heard a lot of bad about Olsen(and rightly so) how about Tarver? or any other coaches worth mentioning
I have heard a lot of bad about Olsen(and rightly so) how about Tarver? or any other coaches worth mentioning
32 Counter Pass
Footballguy
Can you share the links?Chaka said:
Hankmoody
Footballguy
Gimmie the win any day. You can find studs at any part of the draft - got Mack 5, we'd be jumping for joy with ODB at 12, etc. Hell Reggie was going to take Hayden 3 a couple years ago and we got bailed out by MIA at least giving up a 2nd to move up, so we might just end up with the same guy anyway.Raider Nation said:I'm torn between being proud of these young bucks and screaming at them for blowing blue-chipper draft position.
32 Counter Pass
Footballguy
So after 60+ pages of Raider talk we find ourselves in exactly the same spot as the start of the season. Questions surround the front office, coach and roster, and another double digit losing season. [SIZE=13.63636302948px]If the Broncos win tonight and sit their starters next week[/SIZE] we could possibly close out the season with another win, matching last year's win total. I guess we can paint a positive face on this steaming pile by pointing to the 3 consecutive wins at home, but geez it is like ground hog day being a Raider fan. 
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massraider
Footballguy
So after 60+ pages of Raider talk we find ourselves in exactly the same spot as the start of the season. Questions surround the front office, coach and roster, and another double digit losing season. [SIZE=13.63636302948px]If the Broncos win tonight and sit their starters next week[/SIZE] we could possibly close out the season with another win, matching last year's win total. I guess we can paint a positive face on this steaming pile by pointing to the 3 consecutive wins at home, but geez it is like ground hog day being a Raider fan.
I thought the team looks a lot like the team in SEP and OCT. They are just a little better across the board.
Which is what I expected. A million new players, draftees and free agents, rookie QB, and on and on.
A team like that, I would expect it to look better later in the season. It's a shame it cost Allen his job, but I am not sure Sparano should get all the credit.
The team has played hard all year, very few blowout losses, I feel like the staff in general did a decent job, but fans really can't know.
Hankmoody
Footballguy
http://espn.go.com/blog/oakland-raiders/post/_/id/8531/menelik-watson-extends-special-gesture-to-family-of-sick-girl
Few have captured the spirit of the holiday season more than Oakland Raiders tackle Menelik Watson.
The second-year player donated a game check to the family of a 4-year-old girl who is dealing with a serious heart issue.
Ava Urrea and her family were the Raiders’ guests Sunday at the team’s win over Buffalo. Her family spent the weekend in the Bay Area courtesy of Jay Glazer’s foundation, Touchdown Dream. Glazer is a reporter for Fox.
Ava, whose family lives in Las Vegas, was born with hypoplastic left-heart syndrome. The San Francisco Chronicle reported she has had more than 20 surgeries with no cure.
Watson met the family Friday when they were visiting the Raiders’ facility. Ava was the honorary captain for that’s day’s practice. The Raiders routinely involve sick children during the season.
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, Watson, who has missed the past several games with an ankle injury, had his check with him when he met the family. He gave it to them on the spot.
“I felt like if there was anything I can do I wanted to do it,” Watson said told the paper. “I have a daughter of my own who is 6. It just felt right to me.”
What a special gesture. Kudos to Watson for his spontaneous act of kindness.
That's good stuff there. 1/17th of his salary? $88,992.57, so a game check is somewhere around $45k
Few have captured the spirit of the holiday season more than Oakland Raiders tackle Menelik Watson.
The second-year player donated a game check to the family of a 4-year-old girl who is dealing with a serious heart issue.
Ava Urrea and her family were the Raiders’ guests Sunday at the team’s win over Buffalo. Her family spent the weekend in the Bay Area courtesy of Jay Glazer’s foundation, Touchdown Dream. Glazer is a reporter for Fox.
Ava, whose family lives in Las Vegas, was born with hypoplastic left-heart syndrome. The San Francisco Chronicle reported she has had more than 20 surgeries with no cure.
Watson met the family Friday when they were visiting the Raiders’ facility. Ava was the honorary captain for that’s day’s practice. The Raiders routinely involve sick children during the season.
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, Watson, who has missed the past several games with an ankle injury, had his check with him when he met the family. He gave it to them on the spot.
“I felt like if there was anything I can do I wanted to do it,” Watson said told the paper. “I have a daughter of my own who is 6. It just felt right to me.”
What a special gesture. Kudos to Watson for his spontaneous act of kindness.
That's good stuff there. 1/17th of his salary? $88,992.57, so a game check is somewhere around $45k
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massraider
Footballguy
Some thoughts on free agency, as I wait for the game to start tonight. just going by position, and throwing some names out there. Fun link for anyone to take a look at: http://overthecap.com/free-agency
QB:
Carr and McGloin locked in, I am fine with a vet, or a late rounder/UDFA. If we go with a vet, there's some names out there. Matt Moore, Christian Ponder, Shaun Hill, Luke mcCown, Colt McCoy. With two QBs I think the Raiders like, a rookie that can be stashed on the PS if he shows anything seems like the most likely option. Some raw kid with tools might be interesting.
RB:
Latavius is gonna be lonely at the Raider RB barbecue in February. MJD and DMC gone. A rookie draft pick seems inevitable, some UDFA's, and maybe a bargain vet. I wouldn't be surprised to see a decent vet brought in, every team needs more than one RB.
Steven Ridley: A banger who doesn't catch the ball. Coming off an injury, I think he'll be hoping for the lesser part of a RBBC. No idea what his price would be, but I actually think the fit is OK, at least from Oakland's side. A tough inside runner to pair with Murray makes some sense to me, and in the passing game, I'd rather have Reece in there anyway.
Ahmad Bradshaw: Not that sexy, I know, but he is the Colts best RB, won't get big money from anyone. I expect the Colts to re-sign him, but I'd actually love it if he was medically cleared, and the Raiders signed him. Highly unlikely.
Roy Helu: He's not getting the lead job anywhere, I think he's just looking for a job, period. Knack for the big play as a receiver, the presence of Reece, might not make this a good fit.
Chris Polk: The Eagles like him, they kept him over some nice rookies this year, but if they keep McCoy, he will probably move on. Has flashed, 25 years old, 5'11, 220. Might be a nice guy for 5+ carries behind Latavius.
Shane Vereen: How about this name? Would you throw 5mill per at Vereen? He is magic in the passing game, the Pats don't have any cap space, and probably think they have enough short passing game options. We have the cap space to overpay this guy for his services. Longshot, but man, it'd be nice to have this guy as an outlet for Carr.
WR:
If I had to wager on a position the Raiders go after in free agency aggressively, this would just nudge out DE. Streater and Holmes are restricted free agents, Jones will probably be back. Brice Butler will be a favorite to make the team. I see two spots, at least, that need to be filled either via the draft or trade.
Jeremy Maclin: He might be an Eagle next year, but it won't be easy. Eagles are up against the cap, and Maclin was signed to a 'prove it' deal by Philly, and he proved it. He'll have a dozen teams looking to give him 25 guaranteed, and if he hits free agency, will be signing quickly. Is he a true #1? Maybe not, but he's a much safer signing than Wallace, and better than Decker. Love to see it, not sure if he would consider Oakland.
Dez Bryant: Mentioning him, but it seems unlikely. Only have him here because Dallas has serious cap trouble, and he might actually hit free agency.
Kenny Britt: Not that sexy, I know, but he is still young, and if Oakland misses on a big name, I would be intrigued by this. Love to see a deal with incentives, that he could get paid if he performed. The Rams do not have a ton of cap space, I think he hits free agency.
Torrey Smith: A bit of an enigma, capable of huge plays, and disappearing. i don't watch enough Ravens, be interested to see what kind of contract he gets. I'd give him Eric Decker's contract.
Randall Cobb: There's been talk about the Packers re-signing him, that seems the most likely, but the Pack have young guys they like too. Doesn't have #1 guy size, and will want a Victor Cruz contract. He's a playmaker, and the Raiders desperately need a slot guy. Pipe dream.
Cecil Shorts: Dependable, boring, and I would like to sign him. Not sure about the fit.
Marques Colston: Might be a cap casualty. He's old, but catches everything. Might be nice if we don't add an Amari Cooper in the draft, and miss on bigger names in free agency.
Larry Fitzgerald: Has a $23 mill cap number, the Cards don't have much room. Hard to imagine them just letting him go, but he's 31, and they are 11 mill over the cap next year. Pairing this guy with a rookie would be kind of sexy.
TE:
Rivera was a fine 6th rounder, but we could easily add two more TEs here. I'd like to see the Raiders make a big move here.
Jermaine Gresham: He's not getting a huge deal, and they have a young Eifert that will probably take over. The Bengals have never thrown to the TE, and Gresham has never gotten a lot of looks. I would love this signing, personally.
Jordan Cameron: Did his concussions cost him a big deal? I would love to sign him as well, he has shown big play stuff, but the contract would have to be structured correctly. If we aren't going to sign/draft a stud WR, having two receiving TEs makes a lot of sense to me.
Charles Clay: I watch no Dolphins games, but every time I see Clay, he's making a play. Wish I knew more, what I do know is that he's better than aynone else we have behind Rivera.
Bear Pascoe: He's a 3rd tackle essentially, only 28 years old, and I wish we had drafted him.
Offensive Line
Maybe a tackle, depending on what the team thinks of Penn/Watson, but man, there's not a lot out there. If Wiz truly wants to leave, C is a big hole, but I truly don't know anything about these free agents: Will Montgomery, Chris Spencer, Rodney Hudson, Joe Berger......I have no idea. I wonder about a FA guard that can play C as well. Watson taking over at RT would really be a big help.
DE:
Yes please. I'll take two, if I can. I would also not discount the possibility that Harbaugh brings in the 3-4 defense. One thing about the 3-4, you don't need the stud DE that are so hard to come by. Let's assume we are going 4-3.
Jason Pierre-Paul: Eh. Sounds nice. Looks the part. But hasn't been a monster in two years, and he's gonna be looking fort a monster contract. Dount we are in play.
Greg Hardy: Interesting. has the off-field baggage, which makes me think the Raiders might look elsewhere, but if you are looking for stud production at a discount, this might be the guy. I'm interested in seeing what happens with him.
Brian Orakpo: I list him here, even though he has been a 3-4 OLB. I always thought he should have been a 4-3 DE. 28 years old, even though it feels like he's been around forever. Skins franchised him last year, they can get out-bid.
Brandon Graham: Oooh, baby. i would love this guy. He's gonna be a hot commodity. His per-play numbers are staggering, the Eagles just always used waves of players.
Derrick Morgan: Was just coming into his own as a 4-3 end, and the Titans went to a 3-4, moving him to LB. undervalued, and I would put him at RE, and be happy.
Jerry Hughes: Probably more in the designated pass rush role, as he is 6'2", 254 pounds, think Chris Clemons. maybe he fits as a 3-4 OLB as well. Only 26 years old, and has flashed as a pass rusher.
DaQuan Bowers and Adrian Clayborn: Former high draft picks that could use a change of scenery. Truly have no idea on these two.
DT:
The middle of the defense should be a major focus for the team, it would improve the play of almost every other spot on the defense. Jelly and McGee have shown they might be alright, but we need some more here.
Ndamukong Suh: I'm probably in the minority here, and he'll probably not answer a call from Oakland, but I would do it. He's a wrecking ball.
Ahtya Rubin: Played 3-4 NT only, I think, but pairing him in a rotation with Ellis sounds great. If we go to a 3-4 with new coaches, he suddenly becomes a priority. Not a good fit, at the moment.
Nick Fairley: Not my first choice, he has had weight issues, but he had lost the weight, and was playing well before his injury. No way DET picks up the option. For the right contract, I would do it. Something involving weight clauses, and maybe a roster bonus next spring. Dangle a carrot.
Terrance Knighton: #1 dream FA signing? Weaken a division opponent up the gut, while adding a stud leader to the D-line? Pot Roast has never gotten a big deal, I would throw so much up front cash at him, it would make his head spin.
Dwan Edwards: Yeah, he's old. He's also outplayed both the young DTs for Carolina.
Alex Carrington and Corey Peters: Neither going to the Pro Bowl, but young guys that might work in a rotation.
MLB:
Give me a two down banger, we have our nickel LBs. Pair him with a young MLB in the draft, and I'll be happy. 1st and 2nd down runs, gotta stop that.
David Harris: Probably on his way out, along with Rex, but he is still very, very good. I'll pay for his plane ticket. Play running downs, teach the young defenders, and keep him fresh. I think this works, personally.
Michael Wilhoite: Makes a ton of sense if Harbaugh comes. Has performed really well with all the LB injuries there.
Brandon Spikes: This guy might just suck. I dunno. But he was a great run-stopper in New England, but you don't want him covering anyone. Won't cost a lot, and we desperately need what he brings.
CB
We need at least one more, there's some interesting names. Tramon Williams, Brandon Flowers, Bradley Fletcher, Chris Culliver, etc.
S
We need to prepare for life after Woodson, and hope Branch stays healthy. Jonathan Dowling is the only young guy on the team, and who knows with him?
Rahim Moore: The Broncos are OK on cap space, but they have decisions to make.
Stevie Brown: Was already here once. Showed a nose for the ball, but might be slightly overrated.
Louis Delmas: Only 27 years old, but has been banged up a lot. Tough guy, maybe too tough for his body.
Devin McCourty: I think he'll get a big deal, and probably from the Pats.
Marcus Gilchrist: A converted CB that has started all year for SD.
QB:
Carr and McGloin locked in, I am fine with a vet, or a late rounder/UDFA. If we go with a vet, there's some names out there. Matt Moore, Christian Ponder, Shaun Hill, Luke mcCown, Colt McCoy. With two QBs I think the Raiders like, a rookie that can be stashed on the PS if he shows anything seems like the most likely option. Some raw kid with tools might be interesting.
RB:
Latavius is gonna be lonely at the Raider RB barbecue in February. MJD and DMC gone. A rookie draft pick seems inevitable, some UDFA's, and maybe a bargain vet. I wouldn't be surprised to see a decent vet brought in, every team needs more than one RB.
Steven Ridley: A banger who doesn't catch the ball. Coming off an injury, I think he'll be hoping for the lesser part of a RBBC. No idea what his price would be, but I actually think the fit is OK, at least from Oakland's side. A tough inside runner to pair with Murray makes some sense to me, and in the passing game, I'd rather have Reece in there anyway.
Ahmad Bradshaw: Not that sexy, I know, but he is the Colts best RB, won't get big money from anyone. I expect the Colts to re-sign him, but I'd actually love it if he was medically cleared, and the Raiders signed him. Highly unlikely.
Roy Helu: He's not getting the lead job anywhere, I think he's just looking for a job, period. Knack for the big play as a receiver, the presence of Reece, might not make this a good fit.
Chris Polk: The Eagles like him, they kept him over some nice rookies this year, but if they keep McCoy, he will probably move on. Has flashed, 25 years old, 5'11, 220. Might be a nice guy for 5+ carries behind Latavius.
Shane Vereen: How about this name? Would you throw 5mill per at Vereen? He is magic in the passing game, the Pats don't have any cap space, and probably think they have enough short passing game options. We have the cap space to overpay this guy for his services. Longshot, but man, it'd be nice to have this guy as an outlet for Carr.
WR:
If I had to wager on a position the Raiders go after in free agency aggressively, this would just nudge out DE. Streater and Holmes are restricted free agents, Jones will probably be back. Brice Butler will be a favorite to make the team. I see two spots, at least, that need to be filled either via the draft or trade.
Jeremy Maclin: He might be an Eagle next year, but it won't be easy. Eagles are up against the cap, and Maclin was signed to a 'prove it' deal by Philly, and he proved it. He'll have a dozen teams looking to give him 25 guaranteed, and if he hits free agency, will be signing quickly. Is he a true #1? Maybe not, but he's a much safer signing than Wallace, and better than Decker. Love to see it, not sure if he would consider Oakland.
Dez Bryant: Mentioning him, but it seems unlikely. Only have him here because Dallas has serious cap trouble, and he might actually hit free agency.
Kenny Britt: Not that sexy, I know, but he is still young, and if Oakland misses on a big name, I would be intrigued by this. Love to see a deal with incentives, that he could get paid if he performed. The Rams do not have a ton of cap space, I think he hits free agency.
Torrey Smith: A bit of an enigma, capable of huge plays, and disappearing. i don't watch enough Ravens, be interested to see what kind of contract he gets. I'd give him Eric Decker's contract.
Randall Cobb: There's been talk about the Packers re-signing him, that seems the most likely, but the Pack have young guys they like too. Doesn't have #1 guy size, and will want a Victor Cruz contract. He's a playmaker, and the Raiders desperately need a slot guy. Pipe dream.
Cecil Shorts: Dependable, boring, and I would like to sign him. Not sure about the fit.
Marques Colston: Might be a cap casualty. He's old, but catches everything. Might be nice if we don't add an Amari Cooper in the draft, and miss on bigger names in free agency.
Larry Fitzgerald: Has a $23 mill cap number, the Cards don't have much room. Hard to imagine them just letting him go, but he's 31, and they are 11 mill over the cap next year. Pairing this guy with a rookie would be kind of sexy.
TE:
Rivera was a fine 6th rounder, but we could easily add two more TEs here. I'd like to see the Raiders make a big move here.
Jermaine Gresham: He's not getting a huge deal, and they have a young Eifert that will probably take over. The Bengals have never thrown to the TE, and Gresham has never gotten a lot of looks. I would love this signing, personally.
Jordan Cameron: Did his concussions cost him a big deal? I would love to sign him as well, he has shown big play stuff, but the contract would have to be structured correctly. If we aren't going to sign/draft a stud WR, having two receiving TEs makes a lot of sense to me.
Charles Clay: I watch no Dolphins games, but every time I see Clay, he's making a play. Wish I knew more, what I do know is that he's better than aynone else we have behind Rivera.
Bear Pascoe: He's a 3rd tackle essentially, only 28 years old, and I wish we had drafted him.
Offensive Line
Maybe a tackle, depending on what the team thinks of Penn/Watson, but man, there's not a lot out there. If Wiz truly wants to leave, C is a big hole, but I truly don't know anything about these free agents: Will Montgomery, Chris Spencer, Rodney Hudson, Joe Berger......I have no idea. I wonder about a FA guard that can play C as well. Watson taking over at RT would really be a big help.
DE:
Yes please. I'll take two, if I can. I would also not discount the possibility that Harbaugh brings in the 3-4 defense. One thing about the 3-4, you don't need the stud DE that are so hard to come by. Let's assume we are going 4-3.
Jason Pierre-Paul: Eh. Sounds nice. Looks the part. But hasn't been a monster in two years, and he's gonna be looking fort a monster contract. Dount we are in play.
Greg Hardy: Interesting. has the off-field baggage, which makes me think the Raiders might look elsewhere, but if you are looking for stud production at a discount, this might be the guy. I'm interested in seeing what happens with him.
Brian Orakpo: I list him here, even though he has been a 3-4 OLB. I always thought he should have been a 4-3 DE. 28 years old, even though it feels like he's been around forever. Skins franchised him last year, they can get out-bid.
Brandon Graham: Oooh, baby. i would love this guy. He's gonna be a hot commodity. His per-play numbers are staggering, the Eagles just always used waves of players.
Derrick Morgan: Was just coming into his own as a 4-3 end, and the Titans went to a 3-4, moving him to LB. undervalued, and I would put him at RE, and be happy.
Jerry Hughes: Probably more in the designated pass rush role, as he is 6'2", 254 pounds, think Chris Clemons. maybe he fits as a 3-4 OLB as well. Only 26 years old, and has flashed as a pass rusher.
DaQuan Bowers and Adrian Clayborn: Former high draft picks that could use a change of scenery. Truly have no idea on these two.
DT:
The middle of the defense should be a major focus for the team, it would improve the play of almost every other spot on the defense. Jelly and McGee have shown they might be alright, but we need some more here.
Ndamukong Suh: I'm probably in the minority here, and he'll probably not answer a call from Oakland, but I would do it. He's a wrecking ball.
Ahtya Rubin: Played 3-4 NT only, I think, but pairing him in a rotation with Ellis sounds great. If we go to a 3-4 with new coaches, he suddenly becomes a priority. Not a good fit, at the moment.
Nick Fairley: Not my first choice, he has had weight issues, but he had lost the weight, and was playing well before his injury. No way DET picks up the option. For the right contract, I would do it. Something involving weight clauses, and maybe a roster bonus next spring. Dangle a carrot.
Terrance Knighton: #1 dream FA signing? Weaken a division opponent up the gut, while adding a stud leader to the D-line? Pot Roast has never gotten a big deal, I would throw so much up front cash at him, it would make his head spin.
Dwan Edwards: Yeah, he's old. He's also outplayed both the young DTs for Carolina.
Alex Carrington and Corey Peters: Neither going to the Pro Bowl, but young guys that might work in a rotation.
MLB:
Give me a two down banger, we have our nickel LBs. Pair him with a young MLB in the draft, and I'll be happy. 1st and 2nd down runs, gotta stop that.
David Harris: Probably on his way out, along with Rex, but he is still very, very good. I'll pay for his plane ticket. Play running downs, teach the young defenders, and keep him fresh. I think this works, personally.
Michael Wilhoite: Makes a ton of sense if Harbaugh comes. Has performed really well with all the LB injuries there.
Brandon Spikes: This guy might just suck. I dunno. But he was a great run-stopper in New England, but you don't want him covering anyone. Won't cost a lot, and we desperately need what he brings.
CB
We need at least one more, there's some interesting names. Tramon Williams, Brandon Flowers, Bradley Fletcher, Chris Culliver, etc.
S
We need to prepare for life after Woodson, and hope Branch stays healthy. Jonathan Dowling is the only young guy on the team, and who knows with him?
Rahim Moore: The Broncos are OK on cap space, but they have decisions to make.
Stevie Brown: Was already here once. Showed a nose for the ball, but might be slightly overrated.
Louis Delmas: Only 27 years old, but has been banged up a lot. Tough guy, maybe too tough for his body.
Devin McCourty: I think he'll get a big deal, and probably from the Pats.
Marcus Gilchrist: A converted CB that has started all year for SD.
Young Raiders cornerbacks are impressing coaches:
http://espn.go.com/blog/oakland-raiders/post/_/id/8535/young-raiders-cornerbacks-are-impressing-coaches
http://espn.go.com/blog/oakland-raiders/post/_/id/8535/young-raiders-cornerbacks-are-impressing-coaches
massraider
Footballguy
Spiller wasn't listed on the FA list I was looking at. And it's because of a weird contract thing. Interesting article: http://overthecap.com/cj-spiller-mysterious-player-option/
Long story short, he'll be a FA. He's 27, can catch the ball, and has wheels. Or he did. I dunno about Spiller. It would be intriguing to sign him to a 3 year, 7-9 mill deal, and see what we see. He's had a bunch of leg issues, and always seemed to not do as much as FJax with the same line in front of him. An enigma.
Long story short, he'll be a FA. He's 27, can catch the ball, and has wheels. Or he did. I dunno about Spiller. It would be intriguing to sign him to a 3 year, 7-9 mill deal, and see what we see. He's had a bunch of leg issues, and always seemed to not do as much as FJax with the same line in front of him. An enigma.
Bobbyn2022
Footballguy
I'm beyond happy with how DJ Hayden has been playing. I think Mckenzie has done a very good job in the draft. Mack is a monster,Hayden looks like a top tier CB, Murray is the real deal this kids gonna be a top back, Carr gas shown with a running game he can win games and was a steal in the 2nd. I'm beyond happy with Carr and his leadership. He's only a rookie whose gonna keep getting better. Mckenzie had done very well in the draft now let's have another huge draft and this team could do things.
32 Counter Pass
Footballguy
Bowles is an intriguing HC candidate, no doubt. He can bring enthusiasm and give the Raiders immediate street cred. I think the idea that Sparano would take a step back and remain with the Raiders is a stretch. Just last week he stated that he wants to be a head coach in the NFL again. It would be a nice scenario for the Raiders if it did happen.
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massraider
Footballguy
What Bowles did with that defense is impressive. I'm warming to the idea of a 3-4. Sio and Mack being used all over the place is interesting, and with the 3-4, you don't need stud D-linemen, We have some 3-4 pieces already.
RaiderBones
Footballguy
With the personnel we currently have I'm a big proponent of the 3-4. I think Mack and Sio would be monsters in the 3-4.
32 Counter Pass
Footballguy
Not sure about that. Who plays the middle backers? Usually two thumpers man those positions, and the Raiders have zero players that fit that description. Who plays NT? I don't believe that the Raiders have one on their current roster.
RaiderBones
Footballguy
It's called free agency and the draft. You get the players you need to run the system you want to run. With nearly 60+ million in available cap space and a full compliment if draft picks I don't see why the Raiders couldn't get the players they need to properly run a 3-4.
Donnybrook
Footballguy
Justin Ellis?
32 Counter Pass
Footballguy
Possibly, but IIRC he played DT in college. Playing as a 2 gap NT is a very different skill set, and lacking two thumpers in the middle would really make the defense suspect in the middle.
32 Counter Pass
Footballguy
From watching other teams transition from the 4-3 to the 3-4 I believe it takes about three years of solid drafts to get the correct players. They would be better off trying to sign Suh and another FA impact player (JPP anyone?) and stick with the 4-3 IMO. Who are the thumpers that will be available in FA that fit a 3-4 scheme. Do the Raiders have DLinemen on their current roster that fit the 3-4 scheme? My strong hunch is the answer is no. Tuck and Smith are both from 4-3 schemes, for example. There are lots of growing pains to transition to 3-4. You don't just wave your big cap figure around and do it in a year.
RaiderBones
Footballguy
Actually Antonio Smith played a 3-4 DE in Houston. I think we have more players on our team that can play in the 3-4 then you think.
32 Counter Pass
Footballguy
Maybe, but I think you are grossly under estimating how difficult a transition like this takes. How about we just learn to play the 4-3 better rather than completely change the scheme? 
This. I am far away from a Reggie supporter. That being said...his do nothing and let contracts run out to get cap space philosophy did not impress me at all. Reggie's sorry trade for draft picks and Hayden didn't impress me. Reggie's QB talent evaluation, until Carr, didn't impress me. However, the way he structured all the contracts of the FA signings does impress me. Reggie taking top talent in the last two drafts impresses me (now..I admit I didn't feel that way last year). However, we have a corp of players now that can be added to with the draft and with the massive amount of money we have. I'm not sure were I was going with this, other then we can go any route we want right now with a corp to do it with. I'm excited about the future. I'm not excited about the Raiders leaving Oakland after next year (which they will do). It might end up being very similar to the Raiders last Super Bowl win. 1 year after Oakland.
Sarlakticacid
Footballguy
Do we overpay for `The Wiz and the Nuge`?
http://www.silverandblackpride.com/2014/12/26/7451925/stefen-wisniewski-not-accepting-oakland-raiders-contract-offers
http://www.silverandblackpride.com/2014/12/26/7451925/stefen-wisniewski-not-accepting-oakland-raiders-contract-offers
Hankmoody
Footballguy
Exactly. I think Tarver is a plus, and the problem hasn't been scheme, it's been talent level.32 Counter Pass said:Maybe, but I think you are grossly under estimating how difficult a transition like this takes. How about we just learn to play the 4-3 better rather than completely change the scheme?
32 Counter Pass
Footballguy
The Raiders need to do exactly what the Browns did last year with Mack last year. Give him the transition tag and let his agent do the leg work to determine Wiz's value. The Raiders would have an opportunity to match the offer. If they choose to let him walk at that point at least they will have maxed the compensatory pick they will receive when they loose him. It is that simple.
As the article says, Wiz is a good center. You do not let good players walk, if you can avoid it, and you replace talent with with talent. To just do nothing, shrug your shoulders and say "he didn't want to be here" is inexcusable. And one of the biggest indictments against Reggie.
RaiderBones
Footballguy
I'm all for keeping the 4-3 if we get the right players. It will all depend on who the new DC and what kind of defense the new HC will want to run.32 Counter Pass said:Maybe, but I think you are grossly under estimating how difficult a transition like this takes. How about we just learn to play the 4-3 better rather than completely change the scheme?
All I was really saying is that I think Moore and Mack would be even better in a 3-4. But that is just my opinion.
RaiderBones
Footballguy
@JohnMiddlekauff: NFL exec texted me "Oak has a bright young QB/star OLB/top 5 pick/50+ mil cap space. Can't see Jim turning that down if Mark pays"
Chadstroma
Footballguy
I think you are getting core and corps mixed up (and misspelling corps as well.)BlackHole said:This. I am far away from a Reggie supporter. That being said...his do nothing and let contracts run out to get cap space philosophy did not impress me at all. Reggie's sorry trade for draft picks and Hayden didn't impress me. Reggie's QB talent evaluation, until Carr, didn't impress me. However, the way he structured all the contracts of the FA signings does impress me. Reggie taking top talent in the last two drafts impresses me (now..I admit I didn't feel that way last year). However, we have a corp of players now that can be added to with the draft and with the massive amount of money we have. I'm not sure were I was going with this, other then we can go any route we want right now with a corp to do it with. I'm excited about the future. I'm not excited about the Raiders leaving Oakland after next year (which they will do). It might end up being very similar to the Raiders last Super Bowl win. 1 year after Oakland.
Chadstroma
Footballguy
I go back and forth on Reggie.
On the positive side I think he has done an above average job in the drafts. It looks like the potential biggest bust may develop in time to be a solid corner. Last draft is looking to be an excellent draft class with a stud LB, a franchise QB, a likely future pro bowl G and some other pieces that will contribute. He came in with a mess of a team with horrible contracts and had the courage to clear them out knowing that he had to basically destruct the team to build it. He has also shown restraint in free agency to not get back into a hole with blown up contracts.
On the negative side it is downright infuriating to see the bumbling that Veldheer and Houston leaving. Those are two young players that we could have kept and in doing so we would be a stronger young team with even more upside. If you are going to build through the draft as your way of doing things you need to be able to resign players past their first contract or else you really will never make any progress.
I could go wither way on him. If he stays, ok... but he still needs to show me more. If he goes..... ok, but who are we going to replace him with?
On the positive side I think he has done an above average job in the drafts. It looks like the potential biggest bust may develop in time to be a solid corner. Last draft is looking to be an excellent draft class with a stud LB, a franchise QB, a likely future pro bowl G and some other pieces that will contribute. He came in with a mess of a team with horrible contracts and had the courage to clear them out knowing that he had to basically destruct the team to build it. He has also shown restraint in free agency to not get back into a hole with blown up contracts.
On the negative side it is downright infuriating to see the bumbling that Veldheer and Houston leaving. Those are two young players that we could have kept and in doing so we would be a stronger young team with even more upside. If you are going to build through the draft as your way of doing things you need to be able to resign players past their first contract or else you really will never make any progress.
I could go wither way on him. If he stays, ok... but he still needs to show me more. If he goes..... ok, but who are we going to replace him with?
Sarlakticacid
Footballguy
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32 Counter Pass
Footballguy
Latest reports have Harbaugh taking the Michigan job: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2311793-sources-jim-harbaugh-expected-to-take-michigan-job
I hope Todd Bowles and Pat Schurmur are at the top of the list now.
I hope Todd Bowles and Pat Schurmur are at the top of the list now.
Sarlakticacid
Footballguy
I do like the sounds of this. Lets hope RM has learnt a new trick or 2 to make things like this more common place
RaiderBones
Footballguy
The young talent he has let walk are all players not drafted by him. I wonder if things would be different if it were players that he drafted. Wiz is coming up this season as a free agent and he was drafted by Al Davis.
ICON211
Footballguy
Based on what happened with Sanchez and Geno I don't think he is the right guy for this team now with Carr.
ICON211
Footballguy
Hankmoody
Footballguy
That has been 100% Chip calling those plays. OC in Philly doesn't do a heck of a lot.... definitely not enough to start saying he's HC material.
Chadstroma
Footballguy
I can see letting Houston go but to me, letting Veldheer go is just close to inexcusable you can get. A young good LT is not something that you can just go to Walgreens and pick up on a whim.
32 Counter Pass
Footballguy
There are several reasons I really like Schurmur:
- He has previous head coaching experience.
- He is well versed in the west coast offense.
- He has been exposed to the spread offense working as the OC for Kelly. (Even though Chip calls the plays, Schurmur plays a key role in developing the game plans.)
- Given his bkgd I believe his hire would accelerate Carr's development.
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