Player Spotlight: Darren McFadden (1 Viewer)

[Jason Wood]

2008 Player Spotlight Series

One of Footballguys best assets is our message board community. The Shark Pool is, in our view, the best place on the internet to discuss, debate and analyze all things fantasy football. In what's become an annual tradition, the Player Spotlight series is a key part of the preseason efforts. As many of you know, we consider the Player Spotlight threads the permanent record for analyzing the fantasy prospects of the player in question. Last year, we published more than 140 offensive spotlights covering the vast majority of expected skill position starters. This year will be no different.

Each week we will post a list of players to be discussed. Those threads will remain open for the entire preseason, and should be a central point to discussion expectations for the player in question. Importantly, analysis done in the first week of posting will be part of the permanent record in two ways. 1) At the end of the week, we will tally the projections into a consensus. 2) We will select a number of pull quotes from forum contributors who make a compelling statement or observation. Both the projections and pull quotes will be part of a published article on the main website.

Thread Topic: Darren McFadden, RB, Oakland Raiders

Player Page Link: Darren McFadden Player Page

Each article will include:

Detailed viewpoint from a Footballguys staff member
Highlighted member commentary from the message board threads
FBG Projections
Consensus Member ProjectionsThe Rules

In order for this thread to provide maximum value, we ask that you follow a few simple guidelines:

Focus commentary on the player in question, and your expectations for said player
Back up your expectations in whatever manner you deem appropriate; avoid posts that simply say "I hate him" or "He's the best"
To be included in the final synopsis and consensus outlook, you MUST provide projections for the playerProjections should include (at a minimum):

For QBs: Passing Yards, Passing TDs, Ints, Rush Yards, Rush TDs
For RBs: Rushes, Rushing Yards, Rush TDs, Receptions, Receiving Yards, Receiving TDs
For WRs & TEs: Receptions, Receiving Yards, Receiving TDsNow let's get on with the conversation! We look forward to your contributions and let me offer a personal thanks in anticipation of the great debate and analysis.

 

[Tanner9919]

ROY award winner. Certified top 10 RB right out of the gate..

Fargas had a terrific 2007 campaign, averaging 4.5 per carry..

expect AT LEAST 1/2 yard better per rush for McFadden..

285 carries/1425/12 ( 5.0 per)

25 rec/200/1

AFC west is defensively challenged, and the Raiders play an attractive schedule ( not too tough against the run)

 

[Ministry of Pain]

The coach has said they are going to bring him along slowly and Fargas will initially get more carries...they actually paid Fargas some money to stay in Oakland.

McFadden does not cut well and you have to be able to do that in a zone blocking scheme, this guy basically likes to run North South...i do however think McFadden will see a ot of catches out of the backfield. 50+ is not out of the realm of possibilities.

200 carries 800 yds 5 TD

50 rec 400 yds 3 TD

1200 yds and 8 TD as a rookie with a bright future.

Don't get locked into what Fargas did and start adding to the ypc...this is a silly way to do stats and will get you in trouble IMO.

 

[sholditch]

I'm gonna say 272 x 4.6 = 1251 rushing, 6 TDs

40 receptions x 8ypc = 320 receiving, 3 TDs

Oakland is set up for him, and no matter how many times people say he can't cut it doesn't change the fact that he can.

 

[Tackling Dummies]

As much as it with Fargas sniping touches, it's Russell's development, the defense returning to form and the O-line. That's a bunch of unknown's to sort out.

WAG:

220 carries

935 yds

7 TDs

35 receptions

260 yds

2 TDs

------------------------------

1195 net yds

9 TDs

 

[Chachi]

The most talented player that came out in the 2008 draft is going to a better situation than I think most people realize. This line is not as good as Minnesota but is much better at run blocking than it appears they get credit for having. Also there is no Chester Taylor and while Fargas is making some money, lets not forget McFadden just signed a 60 million deal where Fargas got a 9 million deal. With a new QB running the show in Oakland I think the team is going to heavily rely on running the ball and McFadden has the talent to become the workhorse back. I see a ROY season for the former Razorback.

256 carries, 4.8 avg, 1228 yards, 11 TD

40 receptions, 425 yards (Yes, a very high YPC) 5 TD

3 passes, 80 yards, 2 TD

 

[LawFitz]

IMO everyone so far is projecting way too many carries and not enough receptions.

If you want to get an idea of how DMAC will be used go back to Kiffin's days at USC with Lendale and Reggie.

Expect 7-12 carries and 3-8 receptions per game for DMAC and 10-20 carries with very few receptions per game for Fargas. And also don't forget Michael Bush who's lurking and may steal carries, especially of the goal line variety.

DMAC is going to be all over the field. In the backfield, in the slot, split wide and even taking direct snaps at times. He's going to be a PPR monster but will get limited carries and few goal line looks as a rusher. That said his YPC and YPR will be abnormally high b/c of his talent (i.e. home runs) and b/c he'll be playing against worn down D's at opportunistic times of games.

150 carries x 5.5 = 825 ru yds

80 receptions x 10.5 = 840 rc yds

10 combined TDs plus 2 more TDs passing

ROY

 

[lod01]

IMO everyone so far is projecting way too many carries and not enough receptions.

If you want to get an idea of how DMAC will be used go back to Kiffin's days at USC with Lendale and Reggie.

Expect 7-12 carries and 3-8 receptions per game for DMAC and 10-20 carries with very few receptions per game for Fargas. And also don't forget Michael Bush who's lurking and may steal carries, especially of the goal line variety.

DMAC is going to be all over the field. In the backfield, in the slot, split wide and even taking direct snaps at times. He's going to be a PPR monster but will get limited carries and few goal line looks as a rusher. That said his YPC and YPR will be abnormally high b/c of his talent (i.e. home runs) and b/c he'll be playing against worn down D's at opportunistic times of games.

150 carries x 5.5 = 825 ru yds

80 receptions x 10.5 = 840 rc yds

10 combined TDs plus 2 more TDs passing

ROY

LOL. 225 - 967, 8 TD's

25 rec. 212 yards, 1 TD

That's at best.

80 receptions???...with Russell as QB and an overall horrible team? Sorry. No way.

 

[JAA]

IMO everyone so far is projecting way too many carries and not enough receptions.

If you want to get an idea of how DMAC will be used go back to Kiffin's days at USC with Lendale and Reggie.

Expect 7-12 carries and 3-8 receptions per game for DMAC and 10-20 carries with very few receptions per game for Fargas. And also don't forget Michael Bush who's lurking and may steal carries, especially of the goal line variety.

DMAC is going to be all over the field. In the backfield, in the slot, split wide and even taking direct snaps at times. He's going to be a PPR monster but will get limited carries and few goal line looks as a rusher. That said his YPC and YPR will be abnormally high b/c of his talent (i.e. home runs) and b/c he'll be playing against worn down D's at opportunistic times of games.

150 carries x 5.5 = 825 ru yds

80 receptions x 10.5 = 840 rc yds

10 combined TDs plus 2 more TDs passing

ROY

LOL. 225 - 967, 8 TD's

25 rec. 212 yards, 1 TD

That's at best.

80 receptions???...with Russell as QB and an overall horrible team? Sorry. No way.

Like when Tomlinson got 100 receptions?

 

[footballman_696969]

DMAC is going to be all over the field. In the backfield, in the slot, split wide and even taking direct snaps at times.

Link???

 

[rzrback77]

Oakland was very successful on the ground in 07. Their team had 419 runs for 1765 yards and an average of 4.21 ypc. I think that there is potential for a slight improvement. Rhodes and Jordan are gone and McFadden and Michael Bush are added into the mix. It is a very difficult call to determine the split among the trio of McFadden, Fargas, and Bush. Personally, I am a big McFadden supporter as I have witnessed his joy playing the game. I think that he will be very determined to succeed. I also think that he is quite a bit better than Fargas. But, this is a new NFL and the pattern has been set that two backs are better than one and young guys prosper when brought along slowly/

I see McFadden coming out of the gate in a support and receiving role and taking over in mid-season. I also think that JaMarcus Russell will show that he is the real deal as well. Another vote for Darren McFadden as Rookie of the Year.

McFadden 240 carries for 1190 yards 4.95 ypc and 40 catches for 320 yards 8.0 ypc and 10 total TDs

 

[LawFitz]

80 receptions???...with Russell as QB and an overall horrible team? Sorry. No way.

This offense has talent but it's achilles heel will be the OTs. Because of that, the check down passes will be a big part. OTAs and minicamp have confirmed this. Add to that Kiffin's stated intention to use DMAC all over the field in the passing game and you get a very high number of receptions.$60 million says they will use DMAC extensively. And based on Kiffin's past along with his offseason rhetoric thus far, I believe the majority of the use will be in the passing game.

 

[shadyridr]

224 att, 1075 yds, 8 td, 32 rec, 224 yds, 0 td

 

[LawFitz]

DMAC is going to be all over the field. In the backfield, in the slot, split wide and even taking direct snaps at times.

Link???

http://www.ibabuzz.com/raidersblog/2008/06...ll-good-so-far/ "Although Kiffin has talked about being careful not to give McFadden too much too soon, so far he has lined up as an I formation tailback, lined up as a single back, been split out as a wide reciever, lined up in the slot, and gone in motion. He’s also taken shotgun snaps as a “quarterback” and was seen Thursday fielding kickoffs from a JUGS machine."

Per Jerry MacDonald, Raiders beat writer

 

[DawnBTVS]

I think there will be a fairly even split between McFadden and Fargas when comparing total carries but they'll alternate roles (i.e. RB1 vs. RB2) by the end of the season.

16 games - 240 carries for 1,032 yards (4.3 YPC), 8 TD, 38 catches for 310 yards (8.10 YPC), 1 TD.

 

[sholditch]

I am not comparing DMC to ADP, but this situation is very, very similar. ADP was going to be brought along slowly as well, because he was coming in behind a career backup that had done well in his first year as a starter. Both CT and Fargas cracked 1,000 yards. Both also have fairly obvious ceilings due to their length of time in the league prior to their big break. IMO, DMC faces one of two possibilities:

1. He will come in as relief for the first few games, until his superior talent becomes so obvious that everyone is clamoring for him to see starter carries. IMO, the latest this will happen is week 6.

2. He starts and succeeds from beginning, Fargas is a COP back

2a. He starts and falters, Fargas reinstalled as starter, DMC works his way in a 3rd down back, receiver, trick plays

I do view it as inevitable that DMC starts over Fargas, just a matter of when.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Cant believe EBF hasnt been here yet to tell us Mcfadden's low BMI.

 

[Englishteacher]

IMO everyone so far is projecting way too many carries and not enough receptions.

If you want to get an idea of how DMAC will be used go back to Kiffin's days at USC with Lendale and Reggie.

Expect 7-12 carries and 3-8 receptions per game for DMAC and 10-20 carries with very few receptions per game for Fargas. And also don't forget Michael Bush who's lurking and may steal carries, especially of the goal line variety.

DMAC is going to be all over the field. In the backfield, in the slot, split wide and even taking direct snaps at times. He's going to be a PPR monster but will get limited carries and few goal line looks as a rusher. That said his YPC and YPR will be abnormally high b/c of his talent (i.e. home runs) and b/c he'll be playing against worn down D's at opportunistic times of games.

150 carries x 5.5 = 825 ru yds

80 receptions x 10.5 = 840 rc yds

10 combined TDs plus 2 more TDs passing

ROY

They just gave Mcfadden a 60 mil contract after drafting him fourth overall to have him be a change of pace back to Justin Fargas? Right. I also don't think with a gazillion dollar QB that can throw the ball 80 yards that they're going to have McFadden taking direct snaps. That kind of crap just doesn't work in the NFL.

 

[LawFitz]

They just gave Mcfadden a 60 mil contract after drafting him fourth overall to have him be a change of pace back to Justin Fargas? Right.

He will not be a COP. He will be a dynamic playmaker used in a hybrid RB/WR role. Trying to pound McFadden up the gut for 20-25 carries a game would not be the best use of his talent. And unlike Sean Payton, I think Kiffin will be very creative with how he uses DMAC.The talk already has been that he is grasping the offense much quicker than expected and thus will be used in a lot of different ways from the get go.Don't confuse getting less carries than Fargas with not been utilized heavily. Fargas and Bush will be used to wear down D's while DMAC is used to punch them out.

 

[The Man with the Plan]

Great as he may be he'll most likely be drafted incredibly high mainly due to what AD did last season. With so much uncertainty on the team and no track record I wouldn't be comfortable relying on Darren McFadden as a starting running back. Probably won't cost much to handcuff Fargas to him.

 

[Verbal Kint]

80 receptions???...with Russell as QB and an overall horrible team? Sorry. No way.

This offense has talent but it's achilles heel will be the OTs. Because of that, the check down passes will be a big part. OTAs and minicamp have confirmed this. Add to that Kiffin's stated intention to use DMAC all over the field in the passing game and you get a very high number of receptions.$60 million says they will use DMAC extensively. And based on Kiffin's past along with his offseason rhetoric thus far, I believe the majority of the use will be in the passing game.

If you're counting alot of checkdowns in his rec #, isn't 10.5 on the high side for ypr?

 

[Chachi]

80 receptions???...with Russell as QB and an overall horrible team? Sorry. No way.

This offense has talent but it's achilles heel will be the OTs. Because of that, the check down passes will be a big part. OTAs and minicamp have confirmed this. Add to that Kiffin's stated intention to use DMAC all over the field in the passing game and you get a very high number of receptions.$60 million says they will use DMAC extensively. And based on Kiffin's past along with his offseason rhetoric thus far, I believe the majority of the use will be in the passing game.

If you're counting alot of checkdowns in his rec #, isn't 10.5 on the high side for ypr?

20 checkdowns:19 go for 6 yards each1 goes for 85 yardsThat's about 10 YPCNote: I'm not speaking for LawFitz, my projections for his YPC is about the same and that's why my YPC i put very high.

 

[LawFitz]

If you're counting alot of checkdowns in his rec #, isn't 10.5 on the high side for ypr?

Maybe. YPC and YPR will be hard to predict as it will be heavily swayed by the number of long plays we see. My guess is we see more than a few from Mr. McFadden.The main point is twofold. First that Kiff will use DMAC as a weapon. He will try to exploit matchups and what better matchup is there than DMAC in the slot isolated against an LB or SS? Just wait and watch DMAC move all over the field as Kiffin goes nutty with his new toy. Second that Kiff will not waste DMAC by running him up the gut repeatedly thus wearing him down. Why should he when he has hard running Fargas and big Michael Bush to take that pounding? This is not Gruden and Cadillac rehashed.

 

[LawFitz]

80 receptions???...with Russell as QB and an overall horrible team? Sorry. No way.

This offense has talent but it's achilles heel will be the OTs. Because of that, the check down passes will be a big part. OTAs and minicamp have confirmed this. Add to that Kiffin's stated intention to use DMAC all over the field in the passing game and you get a very high number of receptions.$60 million says they will use DMAC extensively. And based on Kiffin's past along with his offseason rhetoric thus far, I believe the majority of the use will be in the passing game.

If you're counting alot of checkdowns in his rec #, isn't 10.5 on the high side for ypr?

20 checkdowns:19 go for 6 yards each1 goes for 85 yardsThat's about 10 YPCNote: I'm not speaking for LawFitz, my projections for his YPC is about the same and that's why my YPC i put very high.

You beat me to it, but this is exactly what I was thinking as well. Long plays will inflate the YPC/YPR.

 

[Englishteacher]

If you're counting alot of checkdowns in his rec #, isn't 10.5 on the high side for ypr?

Maybe. YPC and YPR will be hard to predict as it will be heavily swayed by the number of long plays we see. My guess is we see more than a few from Mr. McFadden.The main point is twofold. First that Kiff will use DMAC as a weapon. He will try to exploit matchups and what better matchup is there than DMAC in the slot isolated against an LB or SS? Just wait and watch DMAC move all over the field as Kiffin goes nutty with his new toy. Second that Kiff will not waste DMAC by running him up the gut repeatedly thus wearing him down. Why should he when he has hard running Fargas and big Michael Bush to take that pounding? This is not Gruden and Cadillac rehashed.

I think I see what you think McFadden will be in the pros with Kiffin but to me McFadden is going to be more Adrian Peterson than Reggie Bush. I just don't see how they draft a kid like that and not give him at least 250 carries. In his rookie year maybe there's a learning curve and Fargas sees the field some but I think the pick is a colossal bust if he's going to be a role player, albeit a heavy one. You just don't draft a RB 4th overall and have him not tote the rock a large majority of the time. I think the Saints, while happy he is a weapon, have to be disappointed with Bush in that he's not developed into an effective between the tackles runner AT ALL. To me you have to have that as a threat to be considered a real serious running back. Even Brian Westbrook can run the football although he does probably have more success because the Eagles are so pass happy. Plus, the Raiders don't run heavy pass offenses like the Eagles, and to a lesser degree, the Saints, do. I think you're mistaking how much of a passing threat McFadden is going to be because that's just not what type of offense they run.

 

[LawFitz]

I think you're mistaking how much of a passing threat McFadden is going to be because that's just not what type of offense they run.

Kiff didn't have the players needed to fully implement his offense last year. I'm not saying they won't run the ball at all like the Eagles but Kiff does now have the #1 overall pick from last years draft playing QB instead of Josh McClown and bum knee Culpepper. The offense will still be run heavy b/c of Jamarcus' lack of seasoning, but I think the majority of the pass plays will be of the safer variety with Zach Miller and McFadden getting a lot of love.Look at how many catches Jordan got before getting hurt. Fargas runs hard between the tackles, but is a poor receiver.And again look at Kiff's tenure at USC while Lendale and Reggie were there. The dude and no problems running an RBBC and frankly, despite the effect it has on fantasy owners, I agree with the philosophy. Why run one guy into the ground when you can attack with fresh legs used in the most effective circumstances?Will DMAC run it up the gut? Sure, but only for a few carries per game rather than the 20-30 Caddie was getting before his wheels fell off.DMAC will get PLENTY of opportunities, but will be used very differently than Adrian Peterson. We need to let go of that comp for at least this next season.

 

[sholditch]

Here's a prediction:

By DMac's third game carrying close to a full-load, we will have heard the last of the arguments about why he can't or won't be a force in the NFL.

 

[The Jacket]

210 car., 1300 yards, 16 TD

120 rec., 1000 yards, 8 TD

/Raiderfan

 

[cstu]

I drafted the guy and I don't even know what to project for him. I'm pretty confident that he'll be used a lot in the passing game, 50 catches for 500 yards is no stretch IMO. However, when it comes to running the ball I can see anything from 150/600/5 to 250/1100/10. My gut tells me he'll be closer to the high side than the low side simply because he's the best RB the Raiders have.

 

[AnonymousBob]

10 combined TDs plus 2 more TDs passing

I don't think your numbers are overly unreasonable but 2 passing td's???

 

[Ministry of Pain]

210 car., 1300 yards, 16 TD120 rec., 1000 yards, 8 TD/Raiderfan

 

[cstu]

10 combined TDs plus 2 more TDs passing

I don't think your numbers are overly unreasonable but 2 passing td's???

He did that a lot in college, weird thing to project though.

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

Darren McFadden:

I was shocked to hear Oakland say that McFadden will split carries and not given the chance for a full time role. The reason that is shocking to me is why draft him with the NO. 4 pick overall? Why not take another position and draft a guy in the 2nd or 3rd round for this type of role, the RB position was pretty deep.

I wasn't overly high on McFadden going into the draft and with this news, it's hard to be all over McFadden despite his gifted speed.

700 yards rushing and 4 td's 20 receptions for 200 yards and 1 td

 

[sholditch]

IMO motivational coach speak. Make him think he still has to earn it. /topic

 

[EBF]

224 att, 1075 yds, 8 td, 32 rec, 224 yds, 0 td

This looks about right. Some big plays and some big games mixed in with some stinkers. I might bump down his YPC and bump up his receiving numbers.

 

[TS Garp]

One thing to consider here is that the Fargas/McFadden split could have a lot to do with how the Raiders fare early in the season. If the Raiders come out with Fargas getting 12-18 carries a game and McFadden getting 8-12 carries a game (plus 3-5 receptions, I'd guess) and it's working and they're winning, I don't think you'll see them break from this and we could see a classic RBBC for the majority of the season (barring injury). However, if the season goes in the tank early, you know Al Davis is going to want to see what his blue chip first rounder can do, and I think they'll let Russell and McFadden learn on the job together, with McFadden getting the lion's share of the carries moving forward.

 

[sholditch]

One thing to consider here is that the Fargas/McFadden split could have a lot to do with how the Raiders fare early in the season. If the Raiders come out with Fargas getting 12-18 carries a game and McFadden getting 8-12 carries a game (plus 3-5 receptions, I'd guess) and it's working and they're winning, I don't think you'll see them break from this and we could see a classic RBBC for the majority of the season (barring injury). However, if the season goes in the tank early, you know Al Davis is going to want to see what his blue chip first rounder can do, and I think they'll let Russell and McFadden learn on the job together, with McFadden getting the lion's share of the carries moving forward.

There's always the third possibility that McFadden clearly outshines Fargas on the field, McFadden sees more carries, and they win.

 

[rufan]

DMC won't be the featured back until he learns how to hold onto the football. He will, however, be used all over the field and will put up big receiving numbers.

 

[massraider]

One thing to consider here is that the Fargas/McFadden split could have a lot to do with how the Raiders fare early in the season. If the Raiders come out with Fargas getting 12-18 carries a game and McFadden getting 8-12 carries a game (plus 3-5 receptions, I'd guess) and it's working and they're winning, I don't think you'll see them break from this and we could see a classic RBBC for the majority of the season (barring injury). However, if the season goes in the tank early, you know Al Davis is going to want to see what his blue chip first rounder can do, and I think they'll let Russell and McFadden learn on the job together, with McFadden getting the lion's share of the carries moving forward.

I like Fargas, and he did a good job when he played last year, but if McFadden and/or Bush show some talent, I think he becomes forgotten man again.

 

[pinequick]

One thing to consider here is that the Fargas/McFadden split could have a lot to do with how the Raiders fare early in the season. If the Raiders come out with Fargas getting 12-18 carries a game and McFadden getting 8-12 carries a game (plus 3-5 receptions, I'd guess) and it's working and they're winning, I don't think you'll see them break from this and we could see a classic RBBC for the majority of the season (barring injury). However, if the season goes in the tank early, you know Al Davis is going to want to see what his blue chip first rounder can do, and I think they'll let Russell and McFadden learn on the job together, with McFadden getting the lion's share of the carries moving forward.

I would have said the same thing last year about JR, though, too...

 

[Englishteacher]

One thing to consider here is that the Fargas/McFadden split could have a lot to do with how the Raiders fare early in the season. If the Raiders come out with Fargas getting 12-18 carries a game and McFadden getting 8-12 carries a game (plus 3-5 receptions, I'd guess) and it's working and they're winning, I don't think you'll see them break from this and we could see a classic RBBC for the majority of the season (barring injury). However, if the season goes in the tank early, you know Al Davis is going to want to see what his blue chip first rounder can do, and I think they'll let Russell and McFadden learn on the job together, with McFadden getting the lion's share of the carries moving forward.

I would have said the same thing last year about JR, though, too...

Big difference there though, Russell missed all of training camp at the hardest position to learn whereas McFadden is signed before training camp at one of the easiest.

 

[LawFitz]

One thing to consider here is that the Fargas/McFadden split could have a lot to do with how the Raiders fare early in the season. If the Raiders come out with Fargas getting 12-18 carries a game and McFadden getting 8-12 carries a game (plus 3-5 receptions, I'd guess) and it's working and they're winning, I don't think you'll see them break from this and we could see a classic RBBC for the majority of the season (barring injury). However, if the season goes in the tank early, you know Al Davis is going to want to see what his blue chip first rounder can do, and I think they'll let Russell and McFadden learn on the job together, with McFadden getting the lion's share of the carries moving forward.

I like Fargas, and he did a good job when he played last year, but if McFadden and/or Bush show some talent, I think he becomes forgotten man again.

I respectfully disagree, Mass. Lil Huggy Bear is a very well liked and well respected member of that locker room. He is also one of Kiff's personal favorites. He won multiple team awards at the end of last season. He will not be forgotten easily this time unless he gets injured again (a scenario which does have a decent probability).This will be similar to Freddy and Chestor Taylor. He will keep the seat warm for the hot shot rooks.

 

[Jon_Moore]

Fargas isn't a great receiving back and McFadden certainly appears to be. The Raiders will look to move him around and get him out in space a la Reggie Bush...however McFadden is much better between the tackles than Bush. He won't completely get rid of Fargas, but he's going to let him know he's there. In college, he was literally unstoppable, I'm sure everyone saw the highlight tapes where he took several direct snaps in secession...he's just that good.

194 rushes

912 Rushing Yards

5 Rushing Tds

35 Receptions

252 Receiving Yards

2 Receiving Tds

 

[BigRed]

Make him think he still has to earn it. /topic

I'm pretty sure he will in fact have to earn it.I also think there are a lot of people hoping to catch another AP-like season who are driving his price up and who will likely be disappointed. OAK's OL isn't exactly MIN's. McFadden will have his highlight reel moments, but how often you'll see it this year is IMO dicey.

 

[jurb26]

For a guy with as impressive a resume as McFadden has there really seems to be an awful high amount of detractors around. We're talking about a prospect who put up elite numbers from the 1st moment he step onto a college football field in the best conference in the land. A guy who was graded by nearly every scout as a can't miss and no worse than #2 overall talent in the NFL draft. He finds himself fortunate enough to be drafted by a team that is not only committed to running the football, but has proven success with average at best talent doing so. Furthermore, this team seems open and optimistic about moving McFadden all over the field to better capitalize on his immense abilities. Lastly, and maybe most importantly, he is already signed sealed and delivered. I think McFadden runs away with the ROY award.

220 carries, 1050 yds, 8 TDs

55 receptions, 450 yds, 2 TDs

 

[BigRed]

For a guy with as impressive a resume as McFadden has there really seems to be an awful high amount of detractors around. We're talking about a prospect who put up elite numbers from the 1st moment he step onto a college football field in the best conference in the land. A guy who was graded by nearly every scout as a can't miss and no worse than #2 overall talent in the NFL draft.

...yet wasn't as hyped as Bush. So?

He finds himself fortunate enough to be drafted by a team that is not only committed to running the football, but has proven success with average at best talent doing so.

??? OAK has traditionally been a vertical passing game type team, not a "smashmouth" PIT type. And RB performance by OAK RBs has been traditionally spotty. Yeah Fargas did well last year - and they have so much confidence in him doing it again they spent their top pick on McFadden. You can't be serious using the team as a justification of why he'll do well-?

Furthermore, this team seems open and optimistic about moving McFadden all over the field to better capitalize on his immense abilities.

Coachspeak is cheap and totally irrelevant.

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, he is already signed sealed and delivered.

That's nice but IMO not all that big of a deal for RBs - far more so for QBs and such.

 

[massraider]

For a guy with as impressive a resume as McFadden has there really seems to be an awful high amount of detractors around. We're talking about a prospect who put up elite numbers from the 1st moment he step onto a college football field in the best conference in the land. A guy who was graded by nearly every scout as a can't miss and no worse than #2 overall talent in the NFL draft.

...yet wasn't as hyped as Bush. So?

He finds himself fortunate enough to be drafted by a team that is not only committed to running the football, but has proven success with average at best talent doing so.

??? OAK has traditionally been a vertical passing game type team, not a "smashmouth" PIT type. And RB performance by OAK RBs has been traditionally spotty. Yeah Fargas did well last year - and they have so much confidence in him doing it again they spent their top pick on McFadden. You can't be serious using the team as a justification of why he'll do well-?

Furthermore, this team seems open and optimistic about moving McFadden all over the field to better capitalize on his immense abilities.

Coachspeak is cheap and totally irrelevant.

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, he is already signed sealed and delivered.

That's nice but IMO not all that big of a deal for RBs - far more so for QBs and such.

1. The Raiders last year were VERY horizontal, and return the same coaching staff, including the line coach that installed a ZBS that had them at #6 in the league. I'd say it's fair to assume the rushing success will continue.2. McFadden moving around is far from coachspeak. Observers of mini-camp have noted that he has been everywhere. In fact, the coachspeak was the opposite. Kiffin said he didn't want to throw too much at him, and it was reported that they did just that, and DMC responded.

 

[jwb]

For a guy with as impressive a resume as McFadden has there really seems to be an awful high amount of detractors around.

Mob mentality.I can remember in one of my leagues last year the guys joking about trying to finish last and getting the "McFadden pick". Serious love for the guy.The very same guys this year started with the "skinny legs" crap. What did his legs shrink between last year and this year? Or was it they never really watched a whole lot of him to begin with and follow the cowd. I'm betting the latter (McFadden owner in one league and looking forward to the season!)

 

[jurb26]

For a guy with as impressive a resume as McFadden has there really seems to be an awful high amount of detractors around. We're talking about a prospect who put up elite numbers from the 1st moment he step onto a college football field in the best conference in the land. A guy who was graded by nearly every scout as a can't miss and no worse than #2 overall talent in the NFL draft.

...yet wasn't as hyped as Bush. So?

He finds himself fortunate enough to be drafted by a team that is not only committed to running the football, but has proven success with average at best talent doing so.

??? OAK has traditionally been a vertical passing game type team, not a "smashmouth" PIT type. And RB performance by OAK RBs has been traditionally spotty. Yeah Fargas did well last year - and they have so much confidence in him doing it again they spent their top pick on McFadden. You can't be serious using the team as a justification of why he'll do well-?

Furthermore, this team seems open and optimistic about moving McFadden all over the field to better capitalize on his immense abilities.

Coachspeak is cheap and totally irrelevant.

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, he is already signed sealed and delivered.

That's nice but IMO not all that big of a deal for RBs - far more so for QBs and such.

Bush has been a pretty good fantasy producer. So?Tradition? How long has Kiffin and Knapp been their coach? Maybe thats a bit more relevant.... In case you didn't notice, Oak ran a vert offense last year too. Who do you think is a better player Fargas or McFadden?You can call it coach speak all you want, but the biggest reason McFadden being signed early is so nice is that he learns all those different roles and uses.... which is exactly what they have had him doing. Maybe instead of just blindly crying out "coaches speak" go watch a practice.

 

[PlasmaDogPlasma]

10 combined TDs plus 2 more TDs passing

I don't think your numbers are overly unreasonable but 2 passing td's???

He did that a lot in college, weird thing to project though.

14/22 - 205 yards - 7 TD/1 INT at AKWhile I doubt Oak brings out the Wild Hog formation, I'm pretty confident he will throw the ball this year. The halfback-pass is a great play to get a big play from if you've got a back that can execute it.