Al Davis asks Kiffin to step down (1 Viewer)

[IvanKaramazov]

 

[massraider]

I`m not saying this is`nt true....but consider who reported this story

Schefter has b een reporting similar items. Mort was the first to mention a letter, but this jibes with other stories.

 

[redman]

The timing of this is weird. It's about four weeks after the Raiders played their last game of the season, and nearly all of the head coaching vacancies have been filled with (presumably) the best candidates out there. Something must have happened in the interim that caused this, no? The only thing that I can think of that could reasonably brought this about would be offseason draft and personnel preparations, and (speculating here of course) diverging views on the course of the team. Have there been any reports of stuff like this in Raiderland over the last month?

Well, the vacancies have been filled, that's for sure. that's about as far as I'd go. (Mike Smith? Something Harbaugh?)The sticking point seems to be Rob Ryan. Speculation was that Kiffin wanted him gone, and Al didn't want to let him go.Ryan is popular with the players, and sees eye to eye with Al on scheme. I am thinking Al didn't like Kiffin leaking news of Ryan's impending firing, as that cat was out of the bag befpore the season ended, and that had to come from Kiff.

Good point. I'd forgotten about the Ryan stuff. Interesting. So if Ryan stays on after Kiffin leaves, that would make four head coaches that Ryan has coached as DC under?

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

Boss: Resign.Employee: No.Boss: Okay, well, let's just continue towards our goals together...as a team...anchored by our strong relationship.

Unfortunately, Al has become a sad collage of Grandpa Simpson, Mr. Burns, and Ralph Wiggum.It went more like:Al: Who are you?Lane: The Head CoachAl: What's a Head Coach?Lane: Seriously?Al: How dare you question me! I demand you resign!Lane: Umm, No.<pause>Al: Who are you? It is too bright in here! Light bulbs you're fired! I don't feel so well. I demand these stool softeners resign! Who are you? Death!

You sir are a genious. LOVE the sig.

 

[redman]

Boss: Resign.

Employee: No.

Boss: Okay, well, let's just continue towards our goals together...as a team...anchored by our strong relationship.

Unfortunately, Al has become a sad collage of Grandpa Simpson, Mr. Burns, and Ralph Wiggum.It went more like:

Al: Who are you?

Lane: The Head Coach

Al: What's a Head Coach?

Lane: Seriously?

Al: How dare you question me! I demand you resign!

Lane: Umm, No.

<pause>

Al: Who are you? It is too bright in here! Light bulbs you're fired! I don't feel so well. I demand these stool softeners resign! Who are you? Death!

We have video.

 

[Mikey16x]

I've been a Raiders fan my whole life and am proud to call myself a fan. That being said, I concur that it's time for Davis to step down.No doubt, he was a pioneer for the league and great for the game.....years and years ago. All good things must come to an end and suffice it to say, it's time for him to gakland has a very good defense, and if they can shore up their line to stop the run, the D isn't too far away from being elite. I love Russell's potential and in today's day and age, it shouldn't take much to turn the offense around, especially since you already have your franchise QB and some very good WR's. Al should walk away with whatever dignity he can muster and let the healing process begin. For the team and its fans, who have sufferred grievously these past several years...I'm here to tell ya.

Im aware of the concept of optimism but wow.. what planet are you living on... your D is far from elite... good... but not elite... but you don't have good receivers and russell has yet to prove he's a franchise QB... he can be the next byron leftwhich as far as everybody is concerned... what did he start.. 1 game?... and the receiving corps of porter, curry and mike williams is far from good... actually far from bad... just terrible. The only player on that whole offense that has shown a bit of talent is justin fargas... and to see if he can keep his play up is TBD... you have 1 million holes in that offense that should take at least 2-3 seasons to mend.. thats saying nobody makes any bad decisions in drafts/free agency etc... and that's if russell even pans out as a NFL QB.and if i was kiffin... id take the resignation and run... far.. away... from the radddassss

 

[coolnerd]

Honestly, this is all I can do at any decision Davis makes at this point.

 

[Beaumont]

Im aware of the concept of optimism but wow.. what planet are you living on... your D is far from elite... good... but not elite... but you don't have good receivers and russell has yet to prove he's a franchise QB... he can be the next byron leftwhich as far as everybody is concerned... what did he start.. 1 game?... and the receiving corps of porter, curry and mike williams is far from good... actually far from bad... just terrible. The only player on that whole offense that has shown a bit of talent is justin fargas... and to see if he can keep his play up is TBD... you have 1 million holes in that offense that should take at least 2-3 seasons to mend.. thats saying nobody makes any bad decisions in drafts/free agency etc... and that's if russell even pans out as a NFL QB.

and if i was kiffin... id take the resignation and run... far.. away... from the radddassss

Worst thing is that BMW is not even on the Raiders and Porter is probably gone ...They have Ron Curry and ... well ... I am not sure what else ...

I hope Johnny Lee can really play. He sure didn't in 2007 ...

 

[Beaumont]

Sometimes I toy with the idea of John Madsen getting more targets in the passing game. Why didnt that happen in 2007?

 

[Autumn Wind]

Unreal.

 

[Tackling Dummies]

Classic. Almost as good as Art Shell and the Bed & Breakfast coordinator.

 

[ThePittbully]

Now is the perfect time for Al to make his illustrious return to coaching

 

[saintfool]

Classic. Almost as good as Art Shell and the Bed & Breakfast coordinator.

i think that is affectionately referred to as "the good ole days" by raider fans at this point...

 

[kremenull]

I've been a Raiders fan my whole life and am proud to call myself a fan. That being said, I concur that it's time for Davis to step down.No doubt, he was a pioneer for the league and great for the game.....years and years ago. All good things must come to an end and suffice it to say, it's time for him to gakland has a very good defense, and if they can shore up their line to stop the run, the D isn't too far away from being elite. I love Russell's potential and in today's day and age, it shouldn't take much to turn the offense around, especially since you already have your franchise QB and some very good WR's. Al should walk away with whatever dignity he can muster and let the healing process begin. For the team and its fans, who have sufferred grievously these past several years...I'm here to tell ya.

Im aware of the concept of optimism but wow.. what planet are you living on... your D is far from elite... good... but not elite... but you don't have good receivers and russell has yet to prove he's a franchise QB... he can be the next byron leftwhich as far as everybody is concerned... what did he start.. 1 game?... and the receiving corps of porter, curry and mike williams is far from good... actually far from bad... just terrible. The only player on that whole offense that has shown a bit of talent is justin fargas... and to see if he can keep his play up is TBD... you have 1 million holes in that offense that should take at least 2-3 seasons to mend.. thats saying nobody makes any bad decisions in drafts/free agency etc... and that's if russell even pans out as a NFL QB.and if i was kiffin... id take the resignation and run... far.. away... from the radddassss

For all of you Raider-bashers out there......The NFL currently is pretty much leveled out as far as talent, i.e. parity reigns supreme. And the Raiders don't have any more holes as most any other team. And with regards to FA, the Raiders have proven to ALWAYS be one of the more active teams in going out to acquire guys who can make a difference. And whether it works out or not, ala Randy Moss, no one can ever question that Boss Al will not stand pat. He goes and gets talent. Check the resume haters.Rich Gannon.......League MVP and Super Bowl QBTy Wheatly....resurrected career in OAKL.Jordan.....one big season, was worth the risk at the time Eric Turner....great addition...R.I.P.Rod Woodson.....productive, playmaker for a time in OAKDerrick Burgess.......top sack artist, once he got to OAK, most of ya probably never even heard of him before thatJ.Hostetler......tough, savvy leaderW.Sapp.....still productive despite what the perception wasEric Allen.......Future HOFer, Pro Bowl caliber play in OAK for a couple of seasonsJerry Rice.....need I say moreAnd there are a litany of other great acquisitions that have occurred under Al a bit further back. The main point I'm making here is that in today's NFL it's much easier than in the past to go from the bottom towards the top of the pile in 1 SEASON, not 2-3, than ever before. And if any team that I'd bank on pulling it off, it's tha Rayyyyyy-duhhhhs! 'Cause the Boss doesn't stand pat.F*%# Lane Kiffin, if the reports of him jockeying for the Arkansas and Michigan jobs were accurate, which I'll believe the franchise's side of it and take this as true, then that type of disloyalty will not fly in Al's book, nor in mine if I'm running any organization.......Don't be sitting there stupified and made to look like a dope like Arthur Blank due to your HC manuevering behind your back for another job. This gesture is a way for the young lad to save face here. Who the hell was Kiffin anyway before Al took a risk and gave him a shot at the highest level (NFL), for which he had no previous experience as a HC at any level? This punk should've been honored to even have been in the position, instead of being a wise-azzzzzz know-it-all, he should have taken the time to learn the ropes of the NFL game from a living legend, who knows more football than any owner alive. Keep in mind that Al Davis FOUNDED the Raiders, and has been a coach, scout, and league commissioner......He's the last of a dying breed, FOUNDER of the franchise still around. Group this man with the likes of Halas, Lombardi, Lamar Hunt, Modell, and the original Rooney in Pitt,....This (Raiders) is his life's passion, these other owners are just rich businessmen who bought a new toy, they aren't football men. So whatever Al does is fine by me, it's his team and his passion. And whenever he's been doubted in the past, the Raiders never fail to R-I-S-E........Just wait and see.......

 

[Couch Potato]

If a franchise, say a Subway or McDonald's, isn't cutting it, the franchisee is given a few chances to get his #### together and then the franchise is taken from him if he can't run the thing. Why can't major sports franchises be the same way? It really sucks to have this kind of thing going on in the NFL.

To have a consistent winner over a period of years, you need to have quality

#1. Ownership

#2. Front office / GM

#3. Coaching

#4. QB play

With the Raiders, Davis is basically #1 and #2 above, and tries to be #3 way too often. Al is completely unqualified these days to manage a franchise. And that's really sad, because there was a time when he was one of the best in the business.

 

[redman]

If a franchise, say a Subway or McDonald's, isn't cutting it, the franchisee is given a few chances to get his #### together and then the franchise is taken from him if he can't run the thing. Why can't major sports franchises be the same way? It really sucks to have this kind of thing going on in the NFL.

To have a consistent winner over a period of years, you need to have quality

#1. Ownership

#2. Front office / GM

#3. Coaching

#4. QB play

With the Raiders, Davis is basically #1 and #2 above, and tries to be #3 way too often. Al is completely unqualified these days to manage a franchise. And that's really sad, because there was a time when he was one of the best in the business.

That is almost 30 years ago now. They used to use "Commitment to Excellence" as their motto (probably still do) but the truth is that at this point most of Al's tenure with the Raiders has been mediocre at best (mid-80's through present) rather than indicative of the excellence that is touted.

 

[LawFitz]

I am DONE with the Raiders until Al Davis goes. I can't take it anymore.

Enough is enough!

I am now a free agent fan. I'm leaning towards the Eagles but will be visiting the Vikings, Ravens and Bears in the coming weeks.

 

[Shadowfax]

Just awful and quite depressing. Been a fan 30+ years and just not sure I can take it anymore. Huge USC fan so I was excited when Kiffin got the job and it looked like he had the Raiders moving in the right direction. Sure he was young and inexperienced and made mistakes but it appeared the players were buying into his concept.

Now...I think I'm finally ready to jump ship. #### YOU AL.

 

[Delusions Of Adequacy]

I've been a Raiders fan my whole life and am proud to call myself a fan. That being said, I concur that it's time for Davis to step down.No doubt, he was a pioneer for the league and great for the game.....years and years ago. All good things must come to an end and suffice it to say, it's time for him to gakland has a very good defense, and if they can shore up their line to stop the run, the D isn't too far away from being elite. I love Russell's potential and in today's day and age, it shouldn't take much to turn the offense around, especially since you already have your franchise QB and some very good WR's. Al should walk away with whatever dignity he can muster and let the healing process begin. For the team and its fans, who have sufferred grievously these past several years...I'm here to tell ya.

Im aware of the concept of optimism but wow.. what planet are you living on... your D is far from elite... good... but not elite... but you don't have good receivers and russell has yet to prove he's a franchise QB... he can be the next byron leftwhich as far as everybody is concerned... what did he start.. 1 game?... and the receiving corps of porter, curry and mike williams is far from good... actually far from bad... just terrible. The only player on that whole offense that has shown a bit of talent is justin fargas... and to see if he can keep his play up is TBD... you have 1 million holes in that offense that should take at least 2-3 seasons to mend.. thats saying nobody makes any bad decisions in drafts/free agency etc... and that's if russell even pans out as a NFL QB.and if i was kiffin... id take the resignation and run... far.. away... from the radddassss

For all of you Raider-bashers out there......The NFL currently is pretty much leveled out as far as talent, i.e. parity reigns supreme. And the Raiders don't have any more holes as most any other team. And with regards to FA, the Raiders have proven to ALWAYS be one of the more active teams in going out to acquire guys who can make a difference. And whether it works out or not, ala Randy Moss, no one can ever question that Boss Al will not stand pat. He goes and gets talent. Check the resume haters.Rich Gannon.......League MVP and Super Bowl QBTy Wheatly....resurrected career in OAKL.Jordan.....one big season, was worth the risk at the time Eric Turner....great addition...R.I.P.Rod Woodson.....productive, playmaker for a time in OAKDerrick Burgess.......top sack artist, once he got to OAK, most of ya probably never even heard of him before thatJ.Hostetler......tough, savvy leaderW.Sapp.....still productive despite what the perception wasEric Allen.......Future HOFer, Pro Bowl caliber play in OAK for a couple of seasonsJerry Rice.....need I say moreAnd there are a litany of other great acquisitions that have occurred under Al a bit further back. The main point I'm making here is that in today's NFL it's much easier than in the past to go from the bottom towards the top of the pile in 1 SEASON, not 2-3, than ever before. And if any team that I'd bank on pulling it off, it's tha Rayyyyyy-duhhhhs! 'Cause the Boss doesn't stand pat.F*%# Lane Kiffin, if the reports of him jockeying for the Arkansas and Michigan jobs were accurate, which I'll believe the franchise's side of it and take this as true, then that type of disloyalty will not fly in Al's book, nor in mine if I'm running any organization.......Don't be sitting there stupified and made to look like a dope like Arthur Blank due to your HC manuevering behind your back for another job. This gesture is a way for the young lad to save face here. Who the hell was Kiffin anyway before Al took a risk and gave him a shot at the highest level (NFL), for which he had no previous experience as a HC at any level? This punk should've been honored to even have been in the position, instead of being a wise-azzzzzz know-it-all, he should have taken the time to learn the ropes of the NFL game from a living legend, who knows more football than any owner alive. Keep in mind that Al Davis FOUNDED the Raiders, and has been a coach, scout, and league commissioner......He's the last of a dying breed, FOUNDER of the franchise still around. Group this man with the likes of Halas, Lombardi, Lamar Hunt, Modell, and the original Rooney in Pitt,....This (Raiders) is his life's passion, these other owners are just rich businessmen who bought a new toy, they aren't football men. So whatever Al does is fine by me, it's his team and his passion. And whenever he's been doubted in the past, the Raiders never fail to R-I-S-E........Just wait and see.......

I'm a longstanding raider fan, but you are delusionalWins the past 5 years: 4,5,4,2,4Worst record in the NFL over that period by a mile.How many dreadful seasons does it take before we can agree that Al has completely lost it. You don't keep hiring coaches and give them just 1 or 2 years to turn around the team. That's just asinine. You don't hire head coaches and withhold them the power to choose their assistants. That's a recipe for disaster. The last raider SB win was in the 1980s. What's it gonna take before people realize that the game has passed Al Davis by?

 

[Gr00vus]

It looks bad now, but if they could somehow hire Marty Schottenheimer to replace Kiffin (who shouldn't have been HC in the first place), the Raiders will come out of it o.k.

Only problems with the above are that Marty hates the Raiders, Al won't give Marty the control Marty would want, and Al won't pay Marty what he'll want. Other than that it's a perfect fit.

 

[Autumn Wind]

Keep in mind that Al Davis FOUNDED the Raiders, and has been a coach, scout, and league commissioner......

Al Davis most certainly did not found the Raiders.

 

[DA RAIDERS]

jesus ####### christ.

 

[wadegarrett]

Al Davis is AWESOME! Every year this guy does something great.

Kudos Big Al for keeping me entertained year in and year out.

 

[Autumn Wind]

I'm a longstanding raider fan, but you are delusionalWins the past 5 years: 4,5,4,2,4Worst record in the NFL over that period by a mile.How many dreadful seasons does it take before we can agree that Al has completely lost it. You don't keep hiring coaches and give them just 1 or 2 years to turn around the team. That's just asinine. You don't hire head coaches and withhold them the power to choose their assistants. That's a recipe for disaster. The last raider SB win was in the 1980s. What's it gonna take before people realize that the game has passed Al Davis by?

Don't forget 7 winning seasons in the last 20 years.

 

[redman]

I am DONE with the Raiders until Al Davis goes. I can't take it anymore.

Enough is enough!

I am now a free agent fan. I'm leaning towards the Eagles but will be visiting the Vikings, Ravens and Bears in the coming weeks.

You'll fit right in with Philly.

 

[Couch Potato]

It looks bad now, but if they could somehow hire Marty Schottenheimer to replace Kiffin (who shouldn't have been HC in the first place), the Raiders will come out of it o.k.Only problems with the above are that Marty hates the Raiders, Al won't give Marty the control Marty would want, and Al won't pay Marty what he'll want. Other than that it's a perfect fit.

I imagine that by now there is a pretty long list of established coaches who will have nothing to do with coaching for Al. If it's as plain as it is to us how bad things are there, the details known by the inner circle of coaches / former coaches must really be juicy. These guys talk to one another and know how REALLY bad it must be to deal with him on a daily basis with all his meddling.Someone like Marty isn't desperate; he's not going to coach for Al. Once again, Al will have to scrounge up some guy who has no other options (an Art Shell type) or youngster looking for his first chance (a Kiffin type). Anyone with a brain in his head knows it's going to be a maximum two year job, filled with frustration with the impotence forced on him by Al.

 

[hauser42]

I've been a Raiders fan my whole life and am proud to call myself a fan. That being said, I concur that it's time for Davis to step down.No doubt, he was a pioneer for the league and great for the game.....years and years ago. All good things must come to an end and suffice it to say, it's time for him to gakland has a very good defense, and if they can shore up their line to stop the run, the D isn't too far away from being elite. I love Russell's potential and in today's day and age, it shouldn't take much to turn the offense around, especially since you already have your franchise QB and some very good WR's. Al should walk away with whatever dignity he can muster and let the healing process begin. For the team and its fans, who have sufferred grievously these past several years...I'm here to tell ya.

Im aware of the concept of optimism but wow.. what planet are you living on... your D is far from elite... good... but not elite... but you don't have good receivers and russell has yet to prove he's a franchise QB... he can be the next byron leftwhich as far as everybody is concerned... what did he start.. 1 game?... and the receiving corps of porter, curry and mike williams is far from good... actually far from bad... just terrible. The only player on that whole offense that has shown a bit of talent is justin fargas... and to see if he can keep his play up is TBD... you have 1 million holes in that offense that should take at least 2-3 seasons to mend.. thats saying nobody makes any bad decisions in drafts/free agency etc... and that's if russell even pans out as a NFL QB.and if i was kiffin... id take the resignation and run... far.. away... from the radddassss

For all of you Raider-bashers out there......The NFL currently is pretty much leveled out as far as talent, i.e. parity reigns supreme. And the Raiders don't have any more holes as most any other team. And with regards to FA, the Raiders have proven to ALWAYS be one of the more active teams in going out to acquire guys who can make a difference. And whether it works out or not, ala Randy Moss, no one can ever question that Boss Al will not stand pat. He goes and gets talent. Check the resume haters.Rich Gannon.......League MVP and Super Bowl QBTy Wheatly....resurrected career in OAKL.Jordan.....one big season, was worth the risk at the time Eric Turner....great addition...R.I.P.Rod Woodson.....productive, playmaker for a time in OAKDerrick Burgess.......top sack artist, once he got to OAK, most of ya probably never even heard of him before thatJ.Hostetler......tough, savvy leaderW.Sapp.....still productive despite what the perception wasEric Allen.......Future HOFer, Pro Bowl caliber play in OAK for a couple of seasonsJerry Rice.....need I say moreAnd there are a litany of other great acquisitions that have occurred under Al a bit further back. The main point I'm making here is that in today's NFL it's much easier than in the past to go from the bottom towards the top of the pile in 1 SEASON, not 2-3, than ever before. And if any team that I'd bank on pulling it off, it's tha Rayyyyyy-duhhhhs! 'Cause the Boss doesn't stand pat.F*%# Lane Kiffin, if the reports of him jockeying for the Arkansas and Michigan jobs were accurate, which I'll believe the franchise's side of it and take this as true, then that type of disloyalty will not fly in Al's book, nor in mine if I'm running any organization.......Don't be sitting there stupified and made to look like a dope like Arthur Blank due to your HC manuevering behind your back for another job. This gesture is a way for the young lad to save face here. Who the hell was Kiffin anyway before Al took a risk and gave him a shot at the highest level (NFL), for which he had no previous experience as a HC at any level? This punk should've been honored to even have been in the position, instead of being a wise-azzzzzz know-it-all, he should have taken the time to learn the ropes of the NFL game from a living legend, who knows more football than any owner alive. Keep in mind that Al Davis FOUNDED the Raiders, and has been a coach, scout, and league commissioner......He's the last of a dying breed, FOUNDER of the franchise still around. Group this man with the likes of Halas, Lombardi, Lamar Hunt, Modell, and the original Rooney in Pitt,....This (Raiders) is his life's passion, these other owners are just rich businessmen who bought a new toy, they aren't football men. So whatever Al does is fine by me, it's his team and his passion. And whenever he's been doubted in the past, the Raiders never fail to R-I-S-E........Just wait and see.......

You must be sucking the same oxygen that Al Davis does.Most of those players you listed were at the end of their careers and maybe gave the Raiders two good years on the team. Al has missed on a ton of draft picks ad whiffed on enough players in free agency.I dont know how anyone can not see that Al Davis is the biggest problem with the Raiders today.

 

[mr. furley]

Kiffin's and Ryan(DC) sdon't get a long and Kiffin asked Davis to fire Rayn

Studs?

 

[Delusions Of Adequacy]

It looks bad now, but if they could somehow hire Marty Schottenheimer to replace Kiffin (who shouldn't have been HC in the first place), the Raiders will come out of it o.k.Only problems with the above are that Marty hates the Raiders, Al won't give Marty the control Marty would want, and Al won't pay Marty what he'll want. Other than that it's a perfect fit.

I imagine that by now there is a pretty long list of established coaches who will have nothing to do with coaching for Al. If it's as plain as it is to us how bad things are there, the details known by the inner circle of coaches / former coaches must really be juicy. These guys talk to one another and know how REALLY bad it must be to deal with him on a daily basis with all his meddling.Someone like Marty isn't desperate; he's not going to coach for Al. Once again, Al will have to scrounge up some guy who has no other options (an Art Shell type) or youngster looking for his first chance (a Kiffin type). Anyone with a brain in his head knows it's going to be a maximum two year job, filled with frustration with the impotence forced on him by Al.

Al would never hire Marty, he can't control him. Al's first priority is to retain control. That way if things succeed, Al can claim credit. If the team fails, Al blames the coach. Not exactly a winning strategy.

 

[Gr00vus]

It looks bad now, but if they could somehow hire Marty Schottenheimer to replace Kiffin (who shouldn't have been HC in the first place), the Raiders will come out of it o.k.Only problems with the above are that Marty hates the Raiders, Al won't give Marty the control Marty would want, and Al won't pay Marty what he'll want. Other than that it's a perfect fit.

I imagine that by now there is a pretty long list of established coaches who will have nothing to do with coaching for Al. If it's as plain as it is to us how bad things are there, the details known by the inner circle of coaches / former coaches must really be juicy. These guys talk to one another and know how REALLY bad it must be to deal with him on a daily basis with all his meddling.Someone like Marty isn't desperate; he's not going to coach for Al. Once again, Al will have to scrounge up some guy who has no other options (an Art Shell type) or youngster looking for his first chance (a Kiffin type). Anyone with a brain in his head knows it's going to be a maximum two year job, filled with frustration with the impotence forced on him by Al.

Like I said I don't see it happening, but in straight football terms it'd be a good fit if Al could find checkbook to pay the bill and get out of the way. Marty is just the guy to get that team back to respectability.

 

[Autumn Wind]

"Raiders Head Coach Denny Green"

Get used to that sound.

 

[Couch Potato]

It looks bad now, but if they could somehow hire Marty Schottenheimer to replace Kiffin (who shouldn't have been HC in the first place), the Raiders will come out of it o.k.Only problems with the above are that Marty hates the Raiders, Al won't give Marty the control Marty would want, and Al won't pay Marty what he'll want. Other than that it's a perfect fit.

I imagine that by now there is a pretty long list of established coaches who will have nothing to do with coaching for Al. If it's as plain as it is to us how bad things are there, the details known by the inner circle of coaches / former coaches must really be juicy. These guys talk to one another and know how REALLY bad it must be to deal with him on a daily basis with all his meddling.Someone like Marty isn't desperate; he's not going to coach for Al. Once again, Al will have to scrounge up some guy who has no other options (an Art Shell type) or youngster looking for his first chance (a Kiffin type). Anyone with a brain in his head knows it's going to be a maximum two year job, filled with frustration with the impotence forced on him by Al.

Al would never hire Marty, he can't control him. Al's first priority is to retain control. That way if things succeed, Al can claim credit. If the team fails, Al blames the coach. Not exactly a winning strategy.

I think that's right. And any coach that won't live with such control wouldn't say yes if asked. Davis has really put himself in a mess by being the way he is. He has almost insured himself getting coaches from now on who are either inexperienced or proven losers that no one else wants. Until Al goes to that big football stadium in the sky, this team will continue to be a mess.

 

[massraider]

This is the darkest moment in Raider history, IMO.

After Shell was gone, and the Raiders had no coach and the first pick, I thought it was the most pivotal offseason in Raider history.

They hired an unknown at coach, and drafted Russell. I was on board with Russell, and unsure about the coach. Kiffin made no major mistakes that I noticed.

The Raiders had a good offseason (Quentin Moses notwithstanding), made smart FA pickups, and hired decent coaches. They managed to control the clock with McCown and Culpepper at QB. He stuck to his guns, and had Russell sit early in the year. His O-line guru, Tom Cable, took an all-time bad O-line, and made them slightly above average. Justin Fargas was a solid starter. And the team never quit, showing fire in December, and winning division games for the first time in forever.

After all this, we're gonna lose this guy? Kiffin might have been laughed at when he was hired, but he did a great, job. Not a good job, a great job.

It was the defense that let them down. And like most things, there was more than one culprit. Stu Schweigert missed tackles. Morrison and Howard had trouble shedding blocks. Terdell Sands disappeared. Burgess wasn't healthy all year. And yes, Rob Ryan didn't show much. Little innovation, scheming, disguising, blitzing, or stunting. He was liked by the players, but big deal. History shows that the team favorite isn't always the guy for the job. So Kiffin, the head coach, wanted to replace his DC.

The guy is 32 years old. No, he shouldn't have carte blanche. I don't think most coaches should. But after the DC that was foisted upon him lays an egg like that, he should be able to go into battle with his own guys. After all, it's his job on the line. And their defense lost them at least 3 games this year.

I see no light at the end of the tunnel. All the boring pot shots I am reading are deserved 100%.

 

[DA RAIDERS]

jesus ####### christ!!!!!!!

just ####### die already!!!!

 

[redman]

Kiffin's and Ryan(DC) sdon't get a long and Kiffin asked Davis to fire Rayn

Studs?

Next coach of the Raiders?

 

[Chadstroma]

According to Mortensen, if Kiffin does leave, Davis would like to replace him with former Vikings and Cardinals head coach Dennis Green.

Didn't Denny reject the Raiders and go to Arizona already?

 

[massraider]

Lofton to interview Monday

By Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer

Friday, January 25th, 2008 at 3:44 pm in Oakland Raiders

9 Comments »

James Lofton will interview with the Raiders for the third time in three years Monday.

According to senior executive John Herrera, Lofton will interview as a position coach with head coach Lane Kiffin.

The same Kiffin who reportedly is locked in a “fire/resign” battle of wills with owner Al Davis.

Herrera insists the Kiffin-Davis feud isn’t the juicy story ESPN’s Chris Mortensen made it out to be.

“It’s not an issue. Lane’s the coach. It’s not an issue,” Herrera said. “I think the one accurate thing he said is that James Lofton will be interviewed. He will be _ as a position coach _ and he will do it with Lane on Monday because that’s when he gets back from Mobile and the Senior Bowl.”

Herrera also refuted the notion that Kiffin has been stripped of all personnel authority and control of his staff, conceding only that Davis was “irritated” when rumors of Kiffin’s interest in Arkansas surfaced four games before the end of the season.

“But that’s ancient history and this is now,” Herrera said. “There has never been any question about Lane being the coach. It hasn’t been an issue.”

Herrera also said Dennis Green has not been contacted by the club, noting that Green already said he hasn’t been contacted and that his name is always connected to the Raiders.

Lofton was fired this week as wide receivers coach of the San Diego Chargers. He interviewed for the head coaching positons that went to Art Shell and Norv Turner.

Kiffin has done nothing to refute the reports, saying, “I’m not going to comment on anything that’s transpired in the last three weeks.”

That three-week time frame coincides with the Raiders issuing a release saying Rob Ryan was still the defensive coordinator.

 

[Couch Potato]

It looks bad now, but if they could somehow hire Marty Schottenheimer to replace Kiffin (who shouldn't have been HC in the first place), the Raiders will come out of it o.k.Only problems with the above are that Marty hates the Raiders, Al won't give Marty the control Marty would want, and Al won't pay Marty what he'll want. Other than that it's a perfect fit.

I imagine that by now there is a pretty long list of established coaches who will have nothing to do with coaching for Al. If it's as plain as it is to us how bad things are there, the details known by the inner circle of coaches / former coaches must really be juicy. These guys talk to one another and know how REALLY bad it must be to deal with him on a daily basis with all his meddling.Someone like Marty isn't desperate; he's not going to coach for Al. Once again, Al will have to scrounge up some guy who has no other options (an Art Shell type) or youngster looking for his first chance (a Kiffin type). Anyone with a brain in his head knows it's going to be a maximum two year job, filled with frustration with the impotence forced on him by Al.

Like I said I don't see it happening, but in straight football terms it'd be a good fit if Al could find checkbook to pay the bill and get out of the way. Marty is just the guy to get that team back to respectability.

Oh, I wasn't disagreeing with you. Marty has been a winner everywhere he's gone (playoffs are another matter, but he gets there). I was just using your post because of the "Al won't give Marty the control Marty would want" part which I agree with.

 

[Chadstroma]

This is the darkest moment in Raider history, IMO. After Shell was gone, and the Raiders had no coach and the first pick, I thought it was the most pivotal offseason in Raider history.They hired an unknown at coach, and drafted Russell. I was on board with Russell, and unsure about the coach. Kiffin made no major mistakes that I noticed. The Raiders had a good offseason (Quentin Moses notwithstanding), made smart FA pickups, and hired decent coaches. They managed to control the clock with McCown and Culpepper at QB. He stuck to his guns, and had Russell sit early in the year. His O-line guru, Tom Cable, took an all-time bad O-line, and made them slightly above average. Justin Fargas was a solid starter. And the team never quit, showing fire in December, and winning division games for the first time in forever.After all this, we're gonna lose this guy? Kiffin might have been laughed at when he was hired, but he did a great, job. Not a good job, a great job. It was the defense that let them down. And like most things, there was more than one culprit. Stu Schweigert missed tackles. Morrison and Howard had trouble shedding blocks. Terdell Sands disappeared. Burgess wasn't healthy all year. And yes, Rob Ryan didn't show much. Little innovation, scheming, disguising, blitzing, or stunting. He was liked by the players, but big deal. History shows that the team favorite isn't always the guy for the job. So Kiffin, the head coach, wanted to replace his DC. The guy is 32 years old. No, he shouldn't have carte blanche. I don't think most coaches should. But after the DC that was foisted upon him lays an egg like that, he should be able to go into battle with his own guys. After all, it's his job on the line. And their defense lost them at least 3 games this year.I see no light at the end of the tunnel. All the boring pot shots I am reading are deserved 100%.

As a life long Raider fan, I agree 100% and this was a great posting.

 

[Delusions Of Adequacy]

Lofton to interview MondayBy Jerry McDonald - NFL WriterFriday, January 25th, 2008 at 3:44 pm in Oakland Raiders9 Comments »James Lofton will interview with the Raiders for the third time in three years Monday.According to senior executive John Herrera, Lofton will interview as a position coach with head coach Lane Kiffin.The same Kiffin who reportedly is locked in a “fire/resign” battle of wills with owner Al Davis.Herrera insists the Kiffin-Davis feud isn’t the juicy story ESPN’s Chris Mortensen made it out to be.“It’s not an issue. Lane’s the coach. It’s not an issue,” Herrera said. “I think the one accurate thing he said is that James Lofton will be interviewed. He will be _ as a position coach _ and he will do it with Lane on Monday because that’s when he gets back from Mobile and the Senior Bowl.”Herrera also refuted the notion that Kiffin has been stripped of all personnel authority and control of his staff, conceding only that Davis was “irritated” when rumors of Kiffin’s interest in Arkansas surfaced four games before the end of the season.“But that’s ancient history and this is now,” Herrera said. “There has never been any question about Lane being the coach. It hasn’t been an issue.”Herrera also said Dennis Green has not been contacted by the club, noting that Green already said he hasn’t been contacted and that his name is always connected to the Raiders.Lofton was fired this week as wide receivers coach of the San Diego Chargers. He interviewed for the head coaching positons that went to Art Shell and Norv Turner.Kiffin has done nothing to refute the reports, saying, “I’m not going to comment on anything that’s transpired in the last three weeks.”That three-week time frame coincides with the Raiders issuing a release saying Rob Ryan was still the defensive coordinator.

Ya, Al decided to bring Lofton in for an interview without even bothering to tell Laine Kiffen. That should tell you all you need to know...

 

[kremenull]

I've been a Raiders fan my whole life and am proud to call myself a fan. That being said, I concur that it's time for Davis to step down.No doubt, he was a pioneer for the league and great for the game.....years and years ago. All good things must come to an end and suffice it to say, it's time for him to gakland has a very good defense, and if they can shore up their line to stop the run, the D isn't too far away from being elite. I love Russell's potential and in today's day and age, it shouldn't take much to turn the offense around, especially since you already have your franchise QB and some very good WR's. Al should walk away with whatever dignity he can muster and let the healing process begin. For the team and its fans, who have sufferred grievously these past several years...I'm here to tell ya.

Im aware of the concept of optimism but wow.. what planet are you living on... your D is far from elite... good... but not elite... but you don't have good receivers and russell has yet to prove he's a franchise QB... he can be the next byron leftwhich as far as everybody is concerned... what did he start.. 1 game?... and the receiving corps of porter, curry and mike williams is far from good... actually far from bad... just terrible. The only player on that whole offense that has shown a bit of talent is justin fargas... and to see if he can keep his play up is TBD... you have 1 million holes in that offense that should take at least 2-3 seasons to mend.. thats saying nobody makes any bad decisions in drafts/free agency etc... and that's if russell even pans out as a NFL QB.and if i was kiffin... id take the resignation and run... far.. away... from the radddassss

For all of you Raider-bashers out there......The NFL currently is pretty much leveled out as far as talent, i.e. parity reigns supreme. And the Raiders don't have any more holes as most any other team. And with regards to FA, the Raiders have proven to ALWAYS be one of the more active teams in going out to acquire guys who can make a difference. And whether it works out or not, ala Randy Moss, no one can ever question that Boss Al will not stand pat. He goes and gets talent. Check the resume haters.Rich Gannon.......League MVP and Super Bowl QBTy Wheatly....resurrected career in OAKL.Jordan.....one big season, was worth the risk at the time Eric Turner....great addition...R.I.P.Rod Woodson.....productive, playmaker for a time in OAKDerrick Burgess.......top sack artist, once he got to OAK, most of ya probably never even heard of him before thatJ.Hostetler......tough, savvy leaderW.Sapp.....still productive despite what the perception wasEric Allen.......Future HOFer, Pro Bowl caliber play in OAK for a couple of seasonsJerry Rice.....need I say moreAnd there are a litany of other great acquisitions that have occurred under Al a bit further back. The main point I'm making here is that in today's NFL it's much easier than in the past to go from the bottom towards the top of the pile in 1 SEASON, not 2-3, than ever before. And if any team that I'd bank on pulling it off, it's tha Rayyyyyy-duhhhhs! 'Cause the Boss doesn't stand pat.F*%# Lane Kiffin, if the reports of him jockeying for the Arkansas and Michigan jobs were accurate, which I'll believe the franchise's side of it and take this as true, then that type of disloyalty will not fly in Al's book, nor in mine if I'm running any organization.......Don't be sitting there stupified and made to look like a dope like Arthur Blank due to your HC manuevering behind your back for another job. This gesture is a way for the young lad to save face here. Who the hell was Kiffin anyway before Al took a risk and gave him a shot at the highest level (NFL), for which he had no previous experience as a HC at any level? This punk should've been honored to even have been in the position, instead of being a wise-azzzzzz know-it-all, he should have taken the time to learn the ropes of the NFL game from a living legend, who knows more football than any owner alive. Keep in mind that Al Davis FOUNDED the Raiders, and has been a coach, scout, and league commissioner......He's the last of a dying breed, FOUNDER of the franchise still around. Group this man with the likes of Halas, Lombardi, Lamar Hunt, Modell, and the original Rooney in Pitt,....This (Raiders) is his life's passion, these other owners are just rich businessmen who bought a new toy, they aren't football men. So whatever Al does is fine by me, it's his team and his passion. And whenever he's been doubted in the past, the Raiders never fail to R-I-S-E........Just wait and see.......

You must be sucking the same oxygen that Al Davis does.Most of those players you listed were at the end of their careers and maybe gave the Raiders two good years on the team. Al has missed on a ton of draft picks ad whiffed on enough players in free agency.I dont know how anyone can not see that Al Davis is the biggest problem with the Raiders today.

No moreso than any other team. There's bound to be hits/misses in anyone's draft history, recent or extended period. But go down the roster and look at who's currently there, playing and producing.Let's mention some of these draft picks......N.Asoumugha, S.Routt, and M.Huff in the secondary....Asoumugha at an elite, not Pro Bowl, but an All-Pro levelK. Morrison and T.Howard at LB.......both as good as any LBs in the league, outside of Patrick Willis J.Richardson, T.Kelly on the DL......productive young playersMcQuistan, Grove, and L.Walker on OL.....Walker certainly was valued as BUF paid him a whole lot of money in FAPorter, Curry, and Z.Miller as receiving targetsFargas, JaMarcus, and Bush in backfield.....Fargas emerging, rest are great young prospects with hopeful futuresSure, there have been major whiffs (Gallery, P.Buchanan, Brayton), but almost every team has those, so don't single out the Raiders here..........All you guys' teams must 'clean out your closet' as well......

 

[Despyzer]

Keep in mind that Al Davis FOUNDED the Raiders, and has been a coach, scout, and league commissioner......

Al Davis most certainly did not found the Raiders.

That's what I was thinking.... wasn't Al Davis an assistant coach for the Chargers when the Raiders were founded?

 

[dickey moe]

How many Art Shells and Dennis Greens can you fit in a Raiders phone booth?

 

[massraider]

Lofton to interview MondayBy Jerry McDonald - NFL WriterFriday, January 25th, 2008 at 3:44 pm in Oakland Raiders9 Comments »James Lofton will interview with the Raiders for the third time in three years Monday.According to senior executive John Herrera, Lofton will interview as a position coach with head coach Lane Kiffin.The same Kiffin who reportedly is locked in a “fire/resign” battle of wills with owner Al Davis.Herrera insists the Kiffin-Davis feud isn’t the juicy story ESPN’s Chris Mortensen made it out to be.“It’s not an issue. Lane’s the coach. It’s not an issue,” Herrera said. “I think the one accurate thing he said is that James Lofton will be interviewed. He will be _ as a position coach _ and he will do it with Lane on Monday because that’s when he gets back from Mobile and the Senior Bowl.”Herrera also refuted the notion that Kiffin has been stripped of all personnel authority and control of his staff, conceding only that Davis was “irritated” when rumors of Kiffin’s interest in Arkansas surfaced four games before the end of the season.“But that’s ancient history and this is now,” Herrera said. “There has never been any question about Lane being the coach. It hasn’t been an issue.”Herrera also said Dennis Green has not been contacted by the club, noting that Green already said he hasn’t been contacted and that his name is always connected to the Raiders.Lofton was fired this week as wide receivers coach of the San Diego Chargers. He interviewed for the head coaching positons that went to Art Shell and Norv Turner.Kiffin has done nothing to refute the reports, saying, “I’m not going to comment on anything that’s transpired in the last three weeks.”That three-week time frame coincides with the Raiders issuing a release saying Rob Ryan was still the defensive coordinator.

Ya, Al decided to bring Lofton in for an interview without even bothering to tell Laine Kiffen. That should tell you all you need to know...

Where did it say that?

 

[Delusions Of Adequacy]

Lofton to interview MondayBy Jerry McDonald - NFL WriterFriday, January 25th, 2008 at 3:44 pm in Oakland Raiders9 Comments »James Lofton will interview with the Raiders for the third time in three years Monday.According to senior executive John Herrera, Lofton will interview as a position coach with head coach Lane Kiffin.The same Kiffin who reportedly is locked in a “fire/resign” battle of wills with owner Al Davis.Herrera insists the Kiffin-Davis feud isn’t the juicy story ESPN’s Chris Mortensen made it out to be.“It’s not an issue. Lane’s the coach. It’s not an issue,” Herrera said. “I think the one accurate thing he said is that James Lofton will be interviewed. He will be _ as a position coach _ and he will do it with Lane on Monday because that’s when he gets back from Mobile and the Senior Bowl.”Herrera also refuted the notion that Kiffin has been stripped of all personnel authority and control of his staff, conceding only that Davis was “irritated” when rumors of Kiffin’s interest in Arkansas surfaced four games before the end of the season.“But that’s ancient history and this is now,” Herrera said. “There has never been any question about Lane being the coach. It hasn’t been an issue.”Herrera also said Dennis Green has not been contacted by the club, noting that Green already said he hasn’t been contacted and that his name is always connected to the Raiders.Lofton was fired this week as wide receivers coach of the San Diego Chargers. He interviewed for the head coaching positons that went to Art Shell and Norv Turner.Kiffin has done nothing to refute the reports, saying, “I’m not going to comment on anything that’s transpired in the last three weeks.”That three-week time frame coincides with the Raiders issuing a release saying Rob Ryan was still the defensive coordinator.

Ya, Al decided to bring Lofton in for an interview without even bothering to tell Laine Kiffen. That should tell you all you need to know...

Where did it say that?

Heard it on Sirius NFL on the afternoon blitz today

 

[DA RAIDERS]

JESUS ####### CHRIST!!!!

 

[bcr8f]

This would cement the Raiders' status (& Al Davis in particular) as laughingstock of the NFL. Unreal. Clearly Emperor Al is only able to surround himself with yes men.

At 155 years old he's still better than Matt Millen.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

Al Davis is just 78 years old?

Stay fit and eat well, GB.

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

I feel sorry for Raiders fans.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

Wow someone out-stupids Snyder

And people wonder why Norv struggled as a head coach.