Silver and Black Report

Oakland Raiders running back Michael Bush was able to give SBReport.net a question and answer session, where he talked about Tom Cable, his new offensive coordinator, the off-season and his daily life. In his career, Bush has rushed for 1,010 yards, with 6 touchdowns at an average of 4.6 yards per carry.

SBReport: You led the Raiders last year with 589-yards rushing, but it felt like you didn’t get enough carries at times. What’s it like not knowing how many reps your going to get and being in a three-running back system?

Michael Bush: Its tough not knowing, but that’s how the cookie crumbles when your the third back on the depth chart and but I just have to stay ready and when my number is called make the best of my opportunity. It kind of leaves me on edge, anxious and ready to play to help the team the best I can.

SBReport: Do you expect to get more carries next season and do you feel like you should be the primary ball carrier?

Michael Bush:  Well growing up I was told by my family not to expect anything from anyone because nothing in life is free so with that being said, I must work hard in off-season workouts, OTAs (Organized Team Activities), mini camps and training camp if I want to get more carries and as far as being the primary back we have other talented guys and we let the coaches have certain packages and plays that should let us all use our talents to the best of our abilities.

SBReport: How do you approach the off-season; in terms of balancing your time off and recovering from the season, and working-out and trying to get better as a player?

Michael Bush: It’s hard balancing your time because there is so much you want to do. Spend time with family travel see different place things like that. But for the most part I get bored when I’m not doing something sports related whether is playing basketball or doing cardio something active its very hard being a couch potato after about a week.

SBReport: Do you have any knowledge of Hue Jackson (new offensive coordinator) and how he will approach the handling of the offense?

Michael Bush: I know a little bit about Coach Jackson about how he has helped the [Baltimore] Ravens offense as a whole. But I will reach out to Ray Rice and ask him a couple questions when I get the chance.

SBReport: How do you feel personally about Tom Cable coming back for at least one more season as the head coach?

Michael Bush: It feels good knowing that we the players don’t have to get use to another coach, different system and another personality so bringing coach cable back is a positive for us. He’s a great motivator.

SBReport: When Michael Bush is not playing football or training, what’s his day like during the off-season?

Michael Bush:  Wake up watch some TV, browse Raiderfans.net to see what the fans are talking about. Skype and check on my lil’ brother make sure he is taking care of is schoolwork while he is in college. Play a little Xbox Live to catch up with some teammates. Call and mess with friends and family and when it starts to get dark, you can catch me in someone’s bowling alley. I love bowling. Something I want to do after football. My career high is 289 and I would say for the most part I average around the 205 area.

SBReport: What are your recollections of the 27 carry, 177-yard performance you had against Tampa Bay at the end of 2008?

Michael Bush: I think that was an awesome game as a whole team. The line did a great job of getting me some lanes to run in and JaMarcus [Russell] did great job of getting the ball to open wide receivers. The [defense] did a great job as well.

NOTES

• Bush was the only Raiders running back to top 100-yards in a game last season. He did it twice: 119-yards against Kansas City and 133-yards versus Denver in the Silver & Black’s 20-19 victory on the road.
• The former Louisville Cardinal was drafted in the 4^th round (100^th overall) of the 2007 draft.

Derrick Burgess, DE

The Oakland Raiders got great value out of the speedy defensive end in his first three-campaigns after signing a five-year, $18 million contract. The then 26-year old had only played in 29 regular season contests with 15-starts for the Philadelphia Eagles. “I’m ecstatic and proud to have the opportunity to wear the Silver and Black,” Burgess said. “I’m joining a quality organization in the Raiders with a great tradition and history.” Burgess started his career in Oakland as a back-up, but midway through the 2005 campaign, the sacks began to pile up and at seasons end, he had the team record for sacks (16), while leading the league in that category in landing his first Pro Bowl bid. He followed that up with 11-sacks in 2006 and another Pro Bowl selection while fighting through injuries. His numbers dipped in his last full season with the Raiders and frustration regarding the losing and the desire for a new deal eventually soured Burgess. “He’s been frustrated,’’ said then position coach Keith Millard. “We’ve had four head coaches in four years and we struggled on defense.’’

Verdict: Oakland had a very productive pass rusher for three-seasons, priced way below the going rate for players of Burgess’ caliber when he arrived. When he became disgruntled, the Raiders traded him to the Patriots and instead of bucking in to his demands, they parted ways with a player who has not been able to regain his form.

Tory James, CB

Oakland signed James away from the Denver Broncos with a 5-year, $18 million contract. In his three campaigns with the Silver & Black, the cornerback tallied 11 interceptions during the regular season. In his most memorable moment with the Raiders, James returned an interception 90-yards in Oakland’s 27-0 romp of the Miami Dolphins, propelling them into the AFC Championship game in January of 2001. “Before I go to sleep, I always visualize making plays,” James stated after the game. “It seems like today my dreams came true.”

Verdict: James was a solid member of the Raiders defensive backfield. He was released in 2003 due to a high cap number ($5.7 million), as Oakland scrambled to get under the cap after their Super Bowl appearance.

Zack Crockett. RB/FB

From 1999-to-2006, Crockett was a fiery leader for the Silver & Black. He compiled 35 touchdowns in his Raider career as a short yardage and goal line specialist. In 2003, Oakland retained his services with a seven-year, $12 million contract when he was 30-years old. Crockett bowled over Kansas City defenders in the 2002 regular season finale – in a muddy field – tallying 72-yards on 11 carries with one score. A few weeks later in the AFC Championship Game, his 7-yard scoring run was the last nail in the Titans coffin.

Verdict:  In September of 2007, Oakland released the aging leader. He was a hard runner for the Raiders, a solid blocker and a stout presence in the locker room and on the practice field.

Here are past installments of this Free-Agent series:

Part 1:

15-years of Free Agency for the Raiders – Part 1

Part 2:

15-years of Free Agency for the Raiders – Part 2

Part 3:

15-years of Free Agency for the Raiders – Part 3

Part 4:

15-years of Free Agency for the Raiders – Part 4

Part 5:

15-years of Free Agency for the Raiders – Part 5

Stay tuned for upcoming installments, looking back at the Raiders history during the free-agency period. Part-seven is coming soon…

Aaron Brooks, QB

After the Oakland Raiders parted ways with Kerry Collins, they signed Brooks to a 2-year deal worth $8 million. “Aaron gives us great depth at the quarterback position and provides us with a veteran presence,” then Raiders head coach Art Shell stated. Brooks was the starter at the beginning of the 2006 campaign, as his only competition was Marques Tuiasosopo and Andrew Walter. Brooks was sacked seven times in the opener against San Diego and battered week-two versus Baltimore, fumbling two snaps from center before straining his pectoral muscle. Eventually he started eight games for the Raiders, losing all of them and was cut after his lone season in Silver & Black, as the team wanted to avoid a $5 million roster bonus he was due the next off-season.

Verdict: Brooks was a stopgap quarterback during an agonizing season for the Raiders. His final stats: a 57.3 completion percentage, eight interceptions and three touchdown passes while being sacked 26 times in eight games.

Eric Turner, S

Prior to the 1997 season, the Raiders were on a shopping spree, and one of their prized signings was the Pro Bowl safety. Turner was reeled in with a 4-year $6 million deal. ”We’re delighted that we can add another impact player to the organization,” said Joe Bugel. He played 32-contest with the Silver & Black before dying of intestinal cancer at age 31. “I realize people are concerned, but I have chosen to keep this issue within my family,” Turner said in a statement prior to his death.

Verdict: The former 2^nd overall pick of the 1991 draft arrived in Oakland after being selected to two Pro Bowls. Turner has always been remembered fondly by teammates and the organization on and off the field.

Andre Rison, WR

A week after being released by the Kansas City Chiefs in August of 2000, Oakland picked up the 33-year old target with a one-year contract worth $450,000 and a $100,000 signing bonus. “The day I was released I already knew where I was going,” Rison commented when he landed with the Chiefs rival. The mercurial wide receiver played 16-games, compiling 41-receptions for 606-yards and 6 touchdowns. The prior season, he tallied career lows in catches and yards with no scores. Rison had 3 receptions for 44-yards in the playoffs, but had a score nullified due to pass interference flag with 4-minutes remaining in the AFC Championship game loss to the Ravens.

Verdict: Rison added attitude to the offense and solid production at wide-receiver behind Tim Brown as the Raiders marched to a 12-4 finish in the regular season in Jon Gruden’s third season.

LaMont Jordan, RB

After the 2004 season, Oakland looked to boost their putrid ground game with the signing of LaMont Jordan. After the former NewYork Jet landed in the Bay Area with a five-year, $27.5 million contract, he stated, “I’ve played out here in Oakland a couple of times and it’s actually my favorite stadium to play in, so I’m really looking forward to getting this ball rolling and hopefully being a big piece to us accomplishing our goals.” Jordan led all NFL rushers with 70 catches his first season and tallied 1,588 total yards from scrimmage and 11 scores. But it went down hill from there, as he tore his MCL in November of 2006 and missed the remainder of the season. After starting the 2007 campaign with 350-yards rushing and two touchdowns in the team’s first three-games, he sustained a back injury in Miami.

Verdict: Jordan was phased out due to his ineffective running and Justin Fargas’ emergence in his last months in Oakland. He never lived up to his contract or the expectations he had to become a productive rusher in the NFL. “After three games [in 2007], LaMont Jordan led the NFL in rushing,” teammate Warren Sapp said. “But…he was out of shape and couldn’t keep it going.”

Stay tuned for upcoming installments, looking back at the Raiders history during the free-agency period. Part-six is coming soon…

Danny Clark targeting LaDainian Tomlinson during the 2004 season

Danny Clark, LB

In March of 2004, the Oakland Raiders lost Eric Barton via free agency and a week earlier they had released Bill Romanowski, leaving them with major gaps at linebacker. They quickly filled one of those voids signing Danny Clark away from the Jacksonville Jaguars with a two-year $3 million contract. Known as ‘Hammerhead’ to teammates, Clark finally was able to play every down in Silver & Black and he started all 16-games in 2004, leading the club with 129-tackles. “I appreciate where I am. I bleed silver and black now,” said Clark in 2005.

Verdict: A solid player on bad defenses, Clark always played with a good motor and gave the Raiders good value with that signing. He was released prior to the 2006 season after Oakland decided to go with their younger crop of linebackers.

Ray Buchanan, DB/S

The Raiders added Buchanan in April of 2004 with a five-year $12 million contract. The ostentatious defensive back was 32-years old when the Falcons released him due to his declining coverage skills, but the Raiders used him all over the secondary during his one-year stint. “I give them a lot of flexibility because I can play safety, but if they need me, I can go out on the edge and play corner, too, Buchanan stated upon his arrival. “They can use me in the slot to cover. My hands are not tied.”

Verdict: His lone season in Silver & Black was disastrous. Buchanan did not have anything left in the tank and his career was over after the 2004 campaign.

Desmond Howard, WR/ST

The year subsequent to signing Larry Brown after his MVP performance in a Super Bowl, the Raiders inked Desmond Howard to a four year contract worth $6 million after the Green Bay Packer became the first special teams player ever to win MVP honors in the big game. Howard’s 10-returns for 244-yards and a score in Super Bowl XXXI led him to Oakland. “This is totally amazing,” Howard said when he arrived. “To sign a contract and become an Oakland Raider, it’s an emotional roller-coaster … because I’m leaving a team I helped to win a world championship and a lot of close friends.” Then Raider coach Joe Bugel stated, “We’ve added yet another explosive, impact player to our football team.” In his first year in Oakland, he led the league with 61 kickoff returns, ending with 1,318 yards, but no scores. In 1998, he scored twice on punts, but his impact was never significant enough to justify the money he received.

Verdict: Howard was useless on offense. He never lived up to the hype he established as a collegiate and the Raiders continued to collect players with trophies rather than productive talents that impact the ball club in a positive way.

Kerry Collins, QB

In May of 2004, Collins signed a three-year $12 million deal. “I’m looking forward to playing in front of the Raider Nation,” Collins stated in a statement. The Giants released the former first rounder after drafting Eli Manning and Oakland picked him up as insurance after Rich Gannon and Marques Tuiasosopo ended their season on injured reserve in 2003. “Kerry is a highly productive performer who will add to what is already a talented position,” said coach Norv Turner. Collins took over as a full-time starter after Gannon sustained a neck injury early in 2004. He tallied a 7-21 record as a Raider, passing for 7,254 yards with 41 touchdowns and 32 interceptions.

Verdict: Collins had some streaky stretches with the Raiders, piling up passing yards with receivers Jerry Porter and Ronald Curry and leading Oakland to one of their most memorable victories the last 7-seasons during a snow storm at Denver on a nationally televised game. A cap casualty, Collins was not viewed as a long-term solution for the struggling Raiders.

Stay tuned for upcoming installments, looking back at the Raiders history during the free-agency period. Part-five coming soon…

Tyrone Wheatley, RB

In August of 1999, a day after the Miami Dolphins cut Wheatley; Oakland inked the former Michigan star and he went on to have a 936-yards rushing season with 8 touchdowns. The 1995 draft pick with the New York Giants had been a bust so far in his career and when he donned the Silver & Black, the tough runner rejuvenated his career. In 2000, he averaged 4.5 yards per carry and ran for a career best 1,046; and paired with Napoleon Kaufman, Oakland had the best running attack in the NFL. Wheatley played with Oakland through the 2004 season and then retired, achieving all his best campaigns after signing with the Raiders.

Verdict: His play helped the Raider resurgence under Jon Gruden. Whether paired with Kaufman or later with Charlie Garner, Wheatley always was a bruising complement in the Raiders run game.

Harvey Williams, RB

In 1993, Los Angeles had a putrid rushing attack. A year later, Williams, who had his carries taken away by former Raider Marcus Allen, signed a one-year deal to become the primary ball carrier for the Silver & Black. After becoming the team’s first 1,000-yard rusher since Allen back in 1985, the Raiders rewarded Williams in 1995 – when he became unrestricted free-agent – with a five year $11 million deal. “(Raiders owner) Al Davis took a gamble, and it has paid off,” said Williams.

Verdict: Williams never became a force, eventually lost his job in the line-up to Napoleon Kaufman and ended up at tight end as his career wound down. In 1997, the seldom-used Williams scored 4 touchdowns in a rout of the Chargers in front of what was a then record 65,714 fans in attendance in San Diego. “When you go out like they did and beat us in Oakland and then you’re bustin’ gums like they did, we had a lot of things we wanted to come in and prove,” said Williams.

Terry Kirby, RB/KR

In November of 2000, Oakland signed Kirby not knowing Wheatley’s prognosis due to an injury sustained. He spent two-more seasons with the club being a key cog on 3^rd downs, a pass catcher out of the backfield and a return man on special teams. At age 32, in a game against the Steelers, Kirby returned a kickoff 96-yards for a score on the first play of the 4^th quarter to keep the Raiders comfortably in front during the contest. He said during that season: “I’ve never been one to complain about doing anything. Not too many people like playing special teams, period. But it’s one of those things you have to do sometimes if you want to stay in the league.”

Verdict: Kirby was a solid role player who was vital in Oakland’s early success in the 2002 season. After being a multi-purpose rusher at other destinations, the Raiders found a niche for him as a special teams ace. “I’m just glad [Oakland] gave me the opportunity to come here and do these things, I’m thankful for that.”

Ted Washington, DT

The Raiders were coming off a 2003 campaign in which they were last in rush defense in the league. In March of 2004, the Pro-Bowl defensive tackle signed a 4-year $14 million contract with a $4 million signing bonus. At the time, the 36-year old was a four-time Pro Bowl performer and a All-Pro. “I can bring leadership, plug up the middle, free my linebackers and also make plays,” stated Washington. “With all those factors, and a team that’s on the uprise, we should have a dominant defense.”

Verdict: In the 2-seasons the mammoth tackle was with Oakland, the Silver & Black finished 22^nd (125.8 yards per) and 25^th (128.1) in rushing yards allowed per contest.

Stay tuned for upcoming installments, looking back at the Raiders history during the free-agency period. Part-four coming soon…

Javon Walker, WR

Walker signed with the Raiders in March of 2008. The six-year $55 million contract that included more than $16 million in guarantees was restructured in March of 2009 after he tallied a putrid 15 receptions for 196 yards with one score after his first year with Oakland. He recorded no stats in 2009 and stated in September, “I’m more than healthy enough.

“I’m just going with the flow.”

Verdict: Walker’s contract with the Raiders will go down as one of the biggest flops in the history of free agency.

Anthony Dorsett, S

The Raiders signed the 26-year old Dorsett after playing 56-games with the Tennessee Titans. He started in Super Bowl XXXIV at free-safety and it was expected that the son of Tony Dorsett and Pro Bowl alternate at the end of the 1999 campaign, would have started next to Eric Turner. Turner passed away in 2000 and in November of that year, Jon Gruden stated, “Dorsett is a guy that’s going to continue to get better and better and better.” Dorsett had a key blocked field goal versus the Cowboys that led to a win and forced a fumble versus the Chiefs that also keyed a Raider victory in 2000.

Verdict: In his first two years in Oakland, Dorsett showed promise. But it was down hill after that and he became a liability in the secondary the last two campaigns in Silver & Black.

Kevin Gogan, G

The 6-foot-7, 320 pound guard signed a three-year $3.6 million deal with a $1.3 million signing bonus in 1994. At 30-years old, he made his first Pro Bowl in his first year with Los Angeles. Gogan was a grinder in the interior and had a reputation of being one of the toughest linemen in the league.

Verdict: A solid lineman while with the Raiders, Gogan was a perfect fit and his presence moved Max Montoya out of his starting spot.

Amos Zereoue, RB

The former West Virginia Mountaineer and Pittsburgh Steelers all-purpose back was expected to fill the void of the departed Charlie Garner in 2004. He inked a one-year deal worth $535,000 in base salary and a $25,000 signing bonus.

Verdict: Zereoue led the Raiders with a feeble 425 yards rushing in his only season in Oakland. His competition during that year; Tyrone Wheatley, Justin Fargas and Troy Hambrick were given the back seat by Norv Turner. Zereoue’s best outing was during a 30-17 loss versus the Texans when he rushed for 117-yards on 14 carries with 2 scores.

Stay tuned for upcoming installments, looking back at the Raiders history during the free-agency period. Part-three coming soon…

#10 – The greatest WR does it again – Super Bowl XXXVII

In a contest with very little entertainment value for Raider fans, receiver Jerry Rice continued his excellence in the big game albeit in a losing effort. His 48-yard touchdown reception gave the Raiders a glimmer of hope against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, cutting their deficit to 34-21. It mainly added to his legacy, as he became the first player to haul in a touchdown pass in 4 different Super Bowls. His final tally career wise in Super Bowls – 33 catches for 589 yards and 8 scores.

#9 – Kenny King’s 80-yard Touchdown – Super Bowl XV

It was a simple dump off just away from the arms of the defender Herm Edwards. But King hauled it in and bolted for a record 80-yard score. The mark stood till 1997, but the damage it inflicted was long standing as it gave Oakland a 14-0 lead in an eventual 27-10 victory against the Philadelphia Eagles.

#8 – ‘The Assassin’ left his mark – Super Bowl XI

It was a convincing victory versus the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl XI. But a lot of the Raider lore and history for being tough renegades, who just dominated and placed feared into opponents was acquired by one of the most devastating hits in football history – which happened in the game’s grandest stage. Jack Tatum knocked the helmet of Vikings’ receiver Sammy White. He stood over him admiring his work in a menacing fashion…

That was the ‘Assassin’ at work.

#7 – Rod Martin’s INT parade – Super Bowl XV

Jim Plunkett won the MVP in Super Bowl XV, but it was Rod Martin’s performance that will be remembered with his Super Bowl record three-interceptions. He tallied two championship rings with the Raiders, playing a vital role with key stops as well in the Silver & Black’s win versus the Redskins in 1984.

#6 – Davis celebrates his 3^rd Title – Super Bowl XVIII

After the Raiders whipped on the Redskins, owner Al Davis boasted about the victory and proclaimed, “Not only, in my opinion, are you the greatest Raider team of all time, I think you rank with the great teams of all times to have ever played any professional sport.”

#5 – Images of Madden – Super Bowl XI

John Madden led the Silver & Black to their first title. And in that game, video captured of him being animated on the sidelines, jumping (err, I think…) for joy and being carried away by his teammates will always be cherished by Oakland’s fan-base.

#4 – Rozelle and Davis – Super Bowl XV

The Pete Rozelle and Al Davis feud was epic. The Raider owner once stated that the legendary commissioner was a man ‘who will destroy the whole league if we’re not careful,’ while also calling him a ‘phony and a fraud.’ After the Silver & Black dismantled the Eagles, Rozelle awarded the Vince Lombardi trophy to Davis, head coach Tom Flores and congratulated the Raiders for being the first wild-card team in league history to win the Super Bowl. Quite an awkward moment and one that Davis cherished immensely at the time while stating it was ‘the finest hour in the history of the Oakland Raiders.’

#3 – Jack Squirek’s INT for a score – Super Bowl XVIII

It was the perfect storm for the Silver & Black. Ray Guy had pinned the Redskins at their 12-yard line. Joe Theismann was about to run an identical screen pass that torched the Raiders a few months earlier, but Squirek sniffed it out and turned a close game into a laugher with his interception return for a touchdown right before halftime, giving Los Angeles a 21-3 lead. Marcus Allen’s run was breathtaking, but Squirek’s play was pivotal in altering the momentum in the contest.

#2 – “Old man Willie…,” – Super Bowl XI

Willie Brown’s 75-yard interception return for a touchdown is one of the most iconic images captured in Super Bowl history. His intensity jetting down the sideline towards the end zone giving the Raiders a 32-7 lead capped what was a wonderful day for the Silver & Black as they captured their first Super Bowl victory.

#1 – Marcus Allen’s 74-yard run for a TD vs. the Redskins – Super Bowl XVIII

The Hall of Fame rusher danced around the Washington defense putting the last nail in the coffin with his stellar 74-yard scamper. Allen skipped behind the line of scrimmage before turning around and finding a crease as he cut back and ran to paydirt. At that point Los Angeles led 35-9. Allen won the MVP with his 20-carries for 191 yards and 2 scores.

or, some subtle causes for optimism in Oakland

The Raiders have made a lot of news for the wrong reasons recently, but as they prepare for their Opening Night battle against the San Diego Chargers, the situation is starting to look brighter.

In the headlines, All-Pro defensive lineman Richard Seymour is finally headed to Oakland after a brief delay, but there are several other reasons the Silver & Black could have the last laugh on critics who have mocked them for:

• Drafting wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey ahead of fellow wideout Michael Crabtree

• Signing, then releasing, former Pro Bowl quarterback Jeff Garcia

• The release of sixth-round draft pick Stryker Sulak before he even signed

• And the situation involving head coach Tom Cable and assistant Randy Hanson

Rookie receivers:

Let’s start with the Raiders’ pair of rookie receivers, top pick Heyward-Bey and fourth-round pick Louis Murphy.

I mean “start” literally. With training camp up-and-comer Chaz Schilens injured, the duo will be in the opening lineup Monday night. Meanwhile, Crabtree will be watching on television, the San Francisco 49ers’ top pick still unsigned and with his people threatening to have him hold out all season.

With big-play punt returner Johnnie Lee Higgins in the slot and tight end Zach Miller remaining JaMarcus Russell’s favorite target, the Raider passing attack might be able to keep up with what Cable hopes is an overpowering ground game.

Still sorry the Raiders “reached” for an Opening Night starter, rather than an egotist who didn’t want to come to the Bay Area?

Backup quarterbacks:

At one point, pundits suggested the Raiders might have the NFL’s best No. 2 quarterback in Garcia, who appeared in four Pro Bowls, one as recently as 2007.

Instead, Garcia found himself unemployed, while Bruce Gradkowski and Charlie Frye earned both backup jobs instead of one beating the other out for clipboard duty. Frankly, I’m quite pleased — Garcia had served his purpose. The popular belief was that his presence would push second-year starter Russell, the No.1 overall pick in 2007.

But let’s face facts: If there are doubts about Russell, they are about things like conditioning and preparation — and Garcia was around during the offseason and training camp (albeit with a calf injury) to press him when he would need it most.

Now that the season is starting, the Raiders need Russell to be confident, not looking over his shoulder.

They also need a capable backup in the event of an injury. And even without Garcia, they still have two. Neither Gradkowski nor Frye may seem like a traditional starting quarterback, but both have been just that. Gradkowski has a dozen career starts, including 11 for Tampa Bay in 2006. Frye, once the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback of the future, has 20, including a pair of Opening Day starts, in 2006 and 2007.

The best-case scenario is that neither takes a snap in anything but garbage time, but frankly, the Raiders have a pair of young, but flawed “tarnished prospects” who are willing to bide their time — instead of an old, unhappy, flawed journeyman who thought he should be starting instead of sitting.

Rookie free agents:

The Raiders’ personnel department has long been a target of abuse, thanks to such first-round disappointments as Derrick Gibson, Phillip Buchanon, Napoleon Harris, and more.

The failure of a late-round pick such as Sulak only adds fuel to the fire, erasing memories of such second-day successes as Ronald Curry and Trevor Scott.

But what the members of the team’s War Room don’t get enough credit for is the work they do when draft weekend is over: Uncovering and signing undrafted rookies.

This year, a pair of those “diamonds in the rough” will be dressed on Monday night: kick returner Nick Miller and defensive tackle Desmond Bryant. Both are small-school prospects, Miller from Southern Utah and Bryant at Harvard.

They join some others who any team could have had, but the Raiders got: Starting defensive tackle Tommy Kelly, starting strongside linebacker Ricky Brown and kick returner Louis Rankin.

Practice squad:

Speaking of Rankin, the preseason star of 2008 and 2009 is part of a trio of undrafted University of Washington ’08 alumni who have been a part of the Oakland roster for two years running.

Rankin is the only one who made the 53-man roster out of camp, but fullback Marcel Reese and defensive end Greyson Gunheim are on the practice squad — where all three spent most of 2008, before getting cups of coffee on the main roster late in the season.

By waiving Gunheim and fourth-round pick Slade Norris in the 53-man cutdown, plus the earlier release of Sulak, the Raiders ruined any chance at crafting an “all-name defense.”

Ah, what might have been.

Nonetheless, it’s what could yet be that is filling Raider fans’ heads as the Monday night doubleheader draws near. What could yet be: Positive headlines that could erase six years of negative ones. Ah, Opening Night. When every team is undefeated, and hope springs eternal… or at least until kickoff.

With a healthy Darren McFadden carrying the ball alongside Michael Bush and Justin Fargas, and veteran star defensive linemen Seymour and Greg Ellis on board to help stop other teams’ rushers for new coordinator John Marshall, this could be the year dreams of playoffs, or even a .500 season, are more than just wishful thinking.

By tomorrow night, we’ll know.

Contact Eric Strauss — S&B Report Staff Columnist

The Oakland Raiders (1-0) take the short trip across the bay to face the San Francisco 49ers (1-0) on Saturday night. In their 36 prior meetings, Oakland has the 19-17 edge, as the first pre-season contest between both clubs dates back to 1967.

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

The Raiders officially begin life without Chaz Schilens this weekend. Rookies Darrius Heyward-Bey and Louis Murphy will start at wide receiver, and if Javon Walker can’t get back into football shape before the opener, head Tom Cable said he won’t be apprehensive starting both players. “If they’re the best two guys, that’s who’s got to play,” Cable commented.

JaMarcus Russell will play most of the first half with the other starters. When Oakland makes their first change at quarterback, it is expected that Jeff Garcia will make his debut. The former 49er stated, “I know I may not get a whole lot of time in this preseason game but I expect probably more playing time in the next game against New Orleans. It’s about how physically I feel. I would hope to get a couple series Saturday night and do some things to where I can get some positive things happening on the field.”

What to Expect:

The Raiders need to start incorporating their young targets into their offense and give them confidence into the season. Russell should get at least 15-20 pass attempts in this game.

As for the trio at running back, Darren McFadden or Michael Bush will start. It’s time that the 2^nd year pro from Arkansas becomes the full-time starter and gets the most touches on this unit. Whoever does not get the nod at the beginning this weekend, will the following contest. Cable stated, “I just want to give them all a chance as a starter in the preseason.”

On Defense:

Oakland needs to decide who will start in the regular season betweenJay Richardson and Trevor Scott. Greg Ellis has been a quality acquisition, showing glimpses of his abilities versus the Cowboys and demonstrating his superior work ethic every day in camp. He’ll get to the quarterback consistently in 2009, but can his book-ends play consistent football? Scott is a pure pass rusher who gets handled in the run game. Richardson is not as dynamic as Scott, but the veteran may be able to hold his own a little better on early downs.

What to Expect:

Keep an eye out at the linebackers. Ricky Brown continues to show more fight than Kirk Morrison and rookie Slade Norris made a nice impression last weekend in his first action.

Rashad Baker is back with the Silver & Black and wearing no. 32.

The secondary has to play a lot better. And with the recent additions of Baker and Ricky Manning; Oakland has to start making judgments on which players they can move on with.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ers

On Offense:

The 49ers are trying to look for any positives on offense this summer. First round draft pick Michael Crabtree is holding out, rookie receiver Brandon Jones will miss substantial time with a broken bone in his shoulder and the quarterback competition is still up in the air.

Shaun Hill and Alex Smith will get about 15 reps a piece according to offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye. But too many observers, Hill may be ahead based on what occurred this week versus the Raiders during their practice sessions.

“I thought he (Hill) did a good job,” head coach Mike Singletary said. “I think Shaun did a good job of getting the ball out and making some good decisions. I thought Alex did some nice things as well, but Shaun did do a good job.”

What to Expect:

Glen Coffee will take most of the reps at running back. It’s unclear whether or not they play starter Frank Gore. What is clear, is that they have full confidence in Coffee with his running and blocking skills.

“It’s unusual for a college back because they are not asked to protect much from the I-back position,” Raye stated. “If (Coffee) continues to develop the way that he has — he’s a rugged player, he is mentally tough — I think that he has a bright future.”

On Defense:

Patrick Willis was back on the field this week after missing 22 practices with an ankle and Achilles injury. When asked if he will be on the field against the Silver & Black, Willis stated, “If things continue to go well then, yes, sir, I’ll be out there unless an authority says no.”

The 49ers lost starting cornerback Walt Harris for the season with an ACL injury. They signed Eric Green on Wednesday for depth after inking veteran Dre Bly.

What to Expect:

The 49ers whooped on the Raiders this week in practice. But after the Raiders view the tape, adjust and maybe get their pride back; how will the 49ers respond? Singletary was happy with the defense after their victory against Denver, as they tormented Kyle Orton. Can they continue their dominance of the Raiders aerial attack?

NOTES:

• Khalif Barnes (broken left ankle) is moving around without his crutches, but he will most likely miss the entire pre-season and not be ready for the opener against the Chargers. That has not prevented him from chirping and defending his mates on the field stating, “I heard (cornerback) Nate Clements say something about we weren’t on their level and all that (stuff),” Barnes said after practice this week. “I beg to differ. “… They had one good day, but it doesn’t mean that they can beat their chests and walk around like they’re the best in the Bay.”
• Barry Sims, now with the 49ers, played for Oakland 1999-to-2007. Coaches Ted Tollner and Paul Hackett served as staffers on the 49ers for various seasons.

TV & RADIO

Greg Papa and Tom Flores, alongside Jim Plunkett, will simulcast the game on the Raiders Radio and Television Network. Raiders Legend George Atkinson will serve as the sideline analyst next to the host of the broadcast, popular radio personality JT the Brick.  This week’s game will be televised live locally in the Bay Area on KTVU Channel 2.  The game will also air live in Sacramento on KCRA Channel 3. The game can be heard on Raiders Radio originating on KSFO 560 AM, the flagship for the Silver and Black’s multi-state Radio Network. Papa and Raiders two-time Super Bowl wining head coach Tom Flores will man the booth for the 12th straight year.  The radio pregame and postgame shows will feature Raider Legends Atkinson and David Humm along with KGO’s Rich Walcoff. (Broadcast information cited from the official Raiders web site)

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Thursday night, at the Oakland Alameda County Coliseum, the Oakland Raiders host the Dallas Cowboy in both clubs pre-season opener. The Silver & Black lead the pre-season series 16-9; as their history dates back to 1972. As with any opener, both teams will evaluate and assess the depth on their roster in order to make their initial cuts and get a look at many players who are considered to be long shots.

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

JaMarcus Russell’s highly inconsistent start to training camp has to be frightening to the coaches and the type of opening Jeff Garcia needs to slide into the starting role if the 24-year old is not ready to step it up in 2009. Early on, he has not shown touch on his tosses, is erratic from session-to-session and until proven otherwise, his ethic and leadership will be questioned.

“At times, he ripped it,” Tom Cable said Tuesday. “He had that streak where he really targeted well and all that and then he got on a roll where everything was overthrow and overthrow.”

Garcia is not healthy enough to put the heat on Russell yet, but with the fiery mind-set the former 49er plays with and his ability to adapt quickly to schemes, it will be a quick plug on the former number one overall pick if he can’t show that he is ready to become a productive player on this roster.

What to expect:

Oakland wants to build chemistry along the trenches and solidify an offensive line that will have new components in 2009. Expect the Raiders to run often in order to give the big bodies in the trenches some confidence in blocking for the best unit on this team – the running backs.

As the pre-season moves on, and Russell gets more reps, they’ll open up the passing game and help get the pass blocking schemes some lengthier looks against live opponents.

Cable stated that quarterbacks Bruce Gradkowski and Charlie Frye will play significantly versus the Cowboys, as Oakland will likely settle on one to be their third stringer.

On Defense:

With a new coordinator at the helm, the defense will look to be more disciplined and accountable for being where they need to be in order to lessen the problems versus the run they have had since 2003.

John Marshall is preaching gap control and better communicating, as he feels that the talent is there to get the job done in 2009. “I’ve certainly seen it get better,” Cable stated recently. “We’re starting to squeeze things, have people overlapping gaps where we’re supposed to be. But we’ll find out starting Thursday. Dallas is a big, physical team, likes to run in it, too. So we’ll find out pretty quick.”

A key to the run defense is linebacker Kirk Morrison, and he is realizing some of the faults and seeing some change so far in camp. “I think a lot of times last year, sometimes you get frustrated when you see guys in their gaps and a run hits us here and a run hits us there and everyone’s trying to make the play instead of saying, ‘Hey, let’s trust what we’re doing and we can’t make every play, let’s make sure we’re in our gaps and the guy who is supposed to make that play needs to be there.’”

What to Expect:

With the trade of Derrick Burgess, Oakland will try to look for new ways to generate a pass rush; whether by blitzing or finding a gem along the line that can help fill some of that void.

Schematically, Oakland has said they will change and be more on the attack than they were under Rob Ryan, but cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha wants to see it before he believes it, stating “That’s like a wait-and-see type of thing.” He continued, “because even in camps previously we were doing a lot of blitzing and doing multiple things defensively and then we got into games and we were pretty basic.”

DALLAS COWBOYS

On Offense:

Life without ‘T.O’ has been good for Dallas. The revamped offense will feature a tough ground game, more double tight end sets and more importantly, free-up Tony Romo as a passer, without the worries of trying to pamper a diva wide receiver throughout the game.

Offensive coordinator Jason Garret will have his full complement of weapons tomorrow night after some of his key weapons sat out of practice on Tuesday due to injuries (Felix Jones and Martellus Bennett).

Wide receiver Roy Williams stated this week, “We just want to be productive. We might not score, but we might drive it down and kick a field goal. That’s productive. Just don’t turn the ball over. That’s one thing that, if we want to be in the playoffs and want to win the Super Bowl, you can’t turn the ball over.”

What to Expect:

Dallas will try to pound away at the Raiders front seven with their ground game. And when Romo does drop back to pass, expect him to move around in the pocket and find targets down the field, as they want to stretch the field to prove that this offense will be better without Terrell Owens.

On Defense:

Cornerbacks Terence Newman (groin) and second-year defensive back Mike Jenkins (ankle) will not see action on Thursday.

Head coach Wade Phillips will have his hands all over this defense in 2009, and this many people believe will have a steady influence on what happens on the field.

“With my expertise, I can help even more by basically doing it myself, along with our coaches on defense,” Phillips said. “I just feel like that’s a little strength of mine.”

He continued: “I think we have improved defensively in the last two years, certainly.

There are some areas that we have even gone to No. 1 in the league in. But we’d like to get even better on defense, and I think I can help us do that.”

What to Expect:

Attack, attack, attack… the Cowboys want to suffocate the Raider offense and plug every gap on running downs. They want to play fast this season, and with Phillips’ job on the line and many big name head coaches available next off-season, his work with this defense will determine whether he is employed in Dallas in 2010.

NEWS & NOTES:

• Linebacker Jon Alston (foot) and Safety Michael Huff missed time in practice on Wednesday. Huff stated he’d play with the first unit during the opener.
• Don’t be surprised if rookie Safety Mike Mitchell also sits on Thursday, as a hamstring injury has the coaches concerned. At this point, there is no need to push the first year player and further the extent of the injury.
• A report linked the Oakland Raiders and free-agent linebacker Derrick Brooks. With his lack of speed and the scheme the Raiders utilize, don’t expect too much interest on either side.

TV & RADIO

Greg Papa and Tom Flores, alongside Jim Plunkett, will simulcast the game on the Raiders Radio and Television Network. Raiders Legend George Atkinson will serve as the broadcast’s sideline analyst next to the host of the broadcast, popular radio personality JT the Brick.  This week’s game will be televised locally on tape-delay on KICU Action 36 Cable 6 on Thursday, August 13th at 10:00 p.m. There will be an encore showing of the game on Friday, August 14th at 8 p.m. on KICU Action 36 Cable 6. The game will air on Raiders Radio originating on KSFO 560 AM, the Silver and Black flagship for the multi-state Radio Network. Papa and Raiders two-time Super Bowl wining head coach Tom Flores will man the booth for the 12th straight year.  The radio pregame and postgame shows will feature Raider Legends Atkinson and David Humm along with KGO’s Rich Walcoff. (Broadcast information cited from the official Oakland Raiders web site)

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist