Silver and Black Report

What to do, what to do?

The Oakland Raiders are in a quite the predicament now.

The sure to be gone interim head coach, who appeared on his way out as the season wound down, just put together a two-game winning streak to end the campaign and put some uncertainty on what will happen on the sideline now that the year is over.

Does owner Al Davis retain Cable and give him an extension to continue his work with this club? Or, is he jettisoned in hopes that a new coaching staff will rejuvenate a team that has gone 24-72 since the dismantling in the Super Bowl after the 2002 season.

The team has responded with improved play as the he got comfortable on the sidelines and more importantly, the players are now letting everyone know that he is their guy.

“If (Davis) wants to ask or if he’s interested in our opinion, I’m sure any man in this locker room would vouch for (Cable),” commented running back Justin Fargas. “From just the way he’s treated us with respect and raised our expectations.”

And expectations are now a lot higher with a young quarterback with a full season under his belt and looking to make major strides in 2009.

Cable has helped simplify things for JaMarcus Russell and since the offensive line coach took over the play calling, the former no. one overall choice has gotten better.

Russell’s voice should carry a lot of weight. And on any other organization, a quarterback who is getting paid that much money and that has the burden that he has being a high draft choice and the savior of the team would be someone that the owner listens to. But the Raiders are managed differently. So how will these comments effect what will happen:

“[Cable] brought us from one direction and took us up the ladder,” quarterback Russell said. “He always told us that deep down he thought we were a good football team. By him becoming (head) coach, he guided us in a different way. He talked to us about what needed to be done, we need to make some changes and within that, I think we did.”

The Raiders must act quickly. No messing around this off-season.

If they are going to rid themselves of Cable, it must be done as soon as possible to send a message that this team is headed in a new direction and to start the process of finding a new head coach and staff while there are plenty of candidates to choose from.

If they are going to keep him, they must state that swiftly to let him purge the Lane Kiffin staff and build a coaching circle he will be comfortable with.

So far, he has proven he can take a sieve of an offensive line that appeared to have no talent and that allowed 72-sacks in 2006, and turn them into a serviceable unit.

He proved that he could take a team in turmoil and make them believe.

Part of me says let him stay and finish the job at hand.

He wants to be here and has proven to be an established commodity. Cable has turned Robert Gallery’s career around and has motivated Mario Henderson enough to the point where he looks like a starting caliber left tackle. And if he is let go, chances are, he won’t be retained just to be the offensive line coach and that could cause regression along the trenches in 2009 without their mentor.

You rarely see an interim head coach demoted back to being a unit coach. And it will take quite the money for Cable to stay as offensive line coach if the Raiders bring in another head man. If he even accepts such a situation.

So that’s the case for keeping Cable.

If he’s a goner, they risk starting all over again with a guy who will have to re-evaluate the roster, implement new schemes and start fresh again with a team that has loss at least 11-games for six straight seasons.

Continuity is needed if this organization is going to finally head in the right direction…

Sure changes are needed all over that staff. Rob Ryan has not deserved to come back among others. And that may be the start of this team changing some problematic issues on the sideline…

But at this point, retaining Cable and making him the head coach may be in the team’s best interest.

 

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

QUARTERBACK — B-

 JaMarcus Russell followed last week’s solid performance with more steps forward toward his development. He showed great accuracy along with his arm strength today. More importantly, he went through his progressions and didn’t lock in on his targets. Russell’s interception in the 4^th quarter was careless, as he put too much air underneath that toss intended for his tight end. He stayed with the play and made the tackle on Sabby Piscitelli 84-yards later, but more importantly, he responded with a 3-play 66-yard drive that ended in a 12-yard strike to Johnnie Lee Higgins to cut the Tampa Bay lead to 24-21. Russell showed good bounce back ability after the late adversity and his offense responded with 17 unanswered points to cap the road victory. He ended 14-of-21 for 148 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.

RUNNING BACKS — B+

 The game-ball goes to Michael Bush. The second year pro shouldered the load when Justin Fargas and Darren McFadden were lost for the afternoon due to injuries. His 27 carries for 177 yards were vital. Bush’s 67-yard gallop to give the Raiders a 28-24 4^th quarter lead deflated the Buccaneers and their crowd. He impressively closed the game, showing toughness after taking a big hit to the helmet that dazed him. Oakland took a time out after that play, Bush recovered and then answered with a run of 19 yards to the Tampa Bay 9 yard line. He even was able to draw a pass interference flag on a Bucs’ defender on a halfback option pass that was under thrown to Todd Watkins. The penalty gave Oakland 43-yards.

WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS — B-

 Higgins had a solid outing with 6 receptions for 52 yards and a 4^th quarter score. He ran routes well, got open enough to make an impact and showed that he may just be more than a return specialist with his improved play at wide receiver as the season wound down. Chaz Schilens put together his second straight three-reception game, tallying 46 yards and his 2^nd career touchdown. Zach Miller had a 28-yard haul off a beautiful play fake by Russell that set up the Raiders on the Tampa Bay 8-yard line before they took a 14-7 lead in the 2^nd quarter. Prior to that play, on 3^rd and 4, Russell also hit Schilens for 19-yards.

OFFENSIVE LINE — A

 The offensive line ended a rough 2008 season with a solid showing. They weren’t dominant like earlier in the campaign versus Kansas City, but against Monte Kiffin’s creative schemes, they gave Russell a nice pocket consistently to step into his throws and allow him time to scan the field. They wore down the Buccaneer front seven as the game wound down; opening up large lanes for Bush. Mario Henderson, starting his fifth consecutive game at left tackle was stout and Jake Grove, who came out early in the game with an injury, got back on the field to finish the game strong. This group allowed one sack, a play in which Russell could’ve got rid of the ball as he rolled out towards the sideline.

DEFENSIVE LINE – C

 The Buccaneers did rush for 125 yards and started getting large chunks of yardage in the 2^nd half after the Raiders held them to 46-yards at halftime. Gerard Warren was disruptive against the run in spurts and Derrick Burgess, although he didn’t record a sack, forced Jeff Garcia to run around the pocket this afternoon. Greyson Gunheim recorded his first career sack to end the game.

LINEBACKERS — A

 This groups stuggled in recent weeks defending short routes and going up against running backs that are adept at catching the ball out of the backfield. Today, Kirk Morrison was where he needed to be on check-downs, dump offs and screens. Morrison compiled 13 tackles to end the season with a team high 135. Thomas Howard was very good in coverage.

SECONDARY — B-

 No Nnamdi Asomugha, no problem. The secondary played well even though there was a breakdown on Michael Clayton’s 58-yard touchdown reception. Justin Miller, who was used more often today due to Asomugha’s absence, bit on Clayton’s double move and had no help over the top. He redeemed himself in the 4^th quarter with tight coverage on Antonio Bryant, pinning him near the sideline and slowing him down on Rashad Baker’s interception. Hiram Eugene showed very good route recognition and almost had an interception.

SPECIAL TEAMS — A

 Shane Lechler had 6 punts for an average 47.7 per. He dropped three inside the 20-yard line, including one that went for 69-yards. Higgins continued his solid efforts on punt returns, racking up 67 yards on 4 opportunities. Justin Miller had 4 kickoff returns for 90 yards.

COACHING – A

 Could this win save Tom Cable? That remains to be seen, but his best was saved for last, as he outshined Jon Gruden and had his team playing at a high level against a club that was playing for their playoff life. He mixed up the run and pass well, called a key time out late to give Bush a breather after taking a big shot and was efficient in the play calling. Cable had a lot of young guys in key roles as the season wound down, and with a lack of pop on offense all season, he was able to improve the attack as the year ended. Rob Ryan didn’t get much out of Trevor Scott, who started this afternoon. But the linebackers played a lot better today than in recent weeks and the secondary, playing without their best player, did an admirable job on the road. Raiders scored 17 unanswered to end the game and shut down Gruden’s offense after Carnell Williams second touchdown. 

 

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

On Sunday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-6) will need a win against the Oakland Raiders (4-11) and a Dallas loss to advance into the playoffs. “When you’re 9-3 at one point and you’re a couple of wins away from the playoffs, and now we’re fighting just to get in … it’s tough looking at it,” commented running back Warrick Dunn.

For Oakland, draft positioning is all that is at stake and looking forward to what may be one of the busiest off-seasons in terms of shaking up the roster and finding some new direction on the sidelines.

“We need a breakthrough as a team,” interim coach Tom Cable said. “If you can do it again then I think you can leave the facility going into the spring and the winter then having some confidence, having the right kind of positive feeling.”

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense (What to expect)

JaMarcus Russell had his best game as a pro last weekend in Oakland’s 27-16 win against the Houston Texans.

His 18 completions on 25 attempts for 236 yards and two scores is the first sign of this young passer’s development. Oakland will try to go into the off-season with good vibes from their quarterback, so expect the coaching staff to let him air it out some more to his young targets. If he can string back-to-back solid performances, it will go a long way in boosting his confidence level on a team that had very little around him to facilitate his growth.

On Defense (What to expect)

The run defense has been poor the majority of the season, with the exception being last week when they contained Steve Slaton.

Against the Bucs, Oakland will have to deal with versatile rushers that can be incorporated into the passing game, something lately they have had problems defending.

Another player looking to finish the season strong after a disappointing campaign is Derrick Burgess. Injuries and sub par play has kept him out of the Pro-Bowl for a second straight year, but 2-sacks last week and a solid effort on Sunday will set him up for a potentially big 2009 with free-agency looming.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

On Offense (What to expect)

Wide receiver Antonio Bryant is tearing up the league at the right time.

He will be a free-agent at the end of the season and with Tampa Bay needing some pop as they make a playoff push, the 27-year old has compiled 26 receptions for 498 yards and 5 touchdowns in his last four games.

“I’m trying to go to the playoffs. That’s all I can control right now,” Bryant said. “All of the other stuff I don’t control. I don’t sign checks – I just cash them. I’m just trying to play ball and get us to the playoffs. There are a lot of scenarios. I would hate to be at home watching a team that I know we’re probably better than go and make a run and go all the way. That wouldn’t be fun. Not for me.

“We’re just playing football. My main focus is just playing football and Dallas getting their butts whipped and let’s keep the ball rolling. That’s my only focus. I’m glad that it is brought down to the smallest scenario – win and Dallas gets their butt whipped. Then we’re rolling.”

On Defense (What to expect)

Jon Gruden is concerned about Tampa Bay’s rush defense, which has tailed off in recent weeks. They allowed large outputs versus Carolina and Atlanta and now face a Raider team that has an ability to rack up yards on the ground.

“I can’t put my finger on anything other than we’re a better defensive football team than we’ve played,” Gruden said, “and I’m confident that we can prove that this Sunday. We have to do that.”

GAME NOTES

• In their last meeting, Kerry Collins came on for an injured Rich Gannon and passed for 228 yards and a score as the Raiders beat Tampa Bay 30-20 in Gruden’s first game back in Oakland since his departure. That would be Gannon’s final game as a pro, as a serious neck injury suffered during a collision with linebacker Derrick Brooks.
• Justin Fargas needs 158 yards to reach the 1,000-yard rush plateau.
• Johnnie Lee Higgins is tied for the league lead in punt returns for touchdowns (3).

KEY MATCH-UPS

Bryant vs. Nnamdi Asomugha

The Pro Bowl bound cornerback versus the most explosive wide receiver in the league right now.

Who will run to a victory?

If Tampa Bay can control the game on the ground, they’ll be able to beat up on a Raider team that has traveled across the country to end the season.

PREDICTION

Buccaneers 19 – Raiders 17

TV & RADIO

The game will be televised on CBS with Kevin Harlan providing play-by-play and former Raiders QB Rich Gannon handling color analysis.  The game will air locally on KPIX Channel 5. The game will also air in Sacramento on KOVR Channel 13 as well as on KHSL in Chico, KION in Monterey and KJEO in Fresno. The game will air on Raiders Radio originating on KSFO 560 AM, the Silver and Black Flagship for the multi-state Radio Network. Greg Papa and former Raiders player, assistant and head coach Tom Flores will man the booth for the 12th straight year. The radio pregame show and postgame show will feature Raider Legends George Atkinson and David Humm along with KGO’s Rich Walcoff. (Broadcast information cited from the official Raiders web site)

GAME INFO

Home Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-6) Home: 6-1 Road: 3-5

Road Team: Oakland Raiders (4-11) Home: 2-6 Road: 2-5

When and Where: Sunday, December 28, 2008, 10:00 a.m. PT | Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

DeMarcus Davis, Staff Writer/SBReport.net

Sunday December 21, 2008

Oakland, CA – The last game in Oakland for the season and before Christmas, the Oakland Raiders desperately wanted a win and a win is what they would get and in BIG TIME fashion.

Oakland won the toss and elected to receive first and kick returner Justin Miller brings the ball out to Oakland’s 36-yard line. Immediately, the Raiders came out of the gates, first with a brilliant JaMarcus Russell scramble and pass to TE Zach Miller for 21-yards. Then, after a wonderful mix of runs from Justin Fargas and Darren McFadden, the Raiders were yards away from scoring their first opening drive since the last Oakland/Denver game. Then, to the delight of the sparse Raider fans in attendance, Russell finds a wide open WR Chaz Schilens in the endzone to put Oakland on top 7-0.

Regardless of the Raiders opening drive, the Houston Texans mounted a huge opening drive of their own; a mix of misdirections and bootlegs that ha the Raider defense well on their heels. It was clear that former Denver Bronco assistant coach Gary Kubiak knew he has the where-with-all on how to beat this Rob Ryan lead Raider defense. Kubiak would put that knowledge to use as he got his team within sniffing distance from the Raider goal line as he then watched his runningback plow his way into the Raider endzone to even up the game at 7-7.

Oakland later would prove, (at least in this game), that they were not a one-trick pony and found themselves marching down field and once again into the redzone. Because of a missed pass interference and an almost executed counter-pitch out to McFadden, the Raiders would settle for a field goal to pull the Raiders back into the lead 10-7.

Just when you thought it was safe to run to the bathroom or get a popcorn break, the Raiders’ special teams pulled a fast one. An onsides kick with over 3 minutes to go in the first quarter. Rashad Baker would return it for Oakland. Couple that with a first down, the Raiders again found themselves in Texans territory. TE Zach Miller put on a clinic with his clutch receptions and big runs after the catch. Had the Raiders actually had a better offensive line, Miller easily should have been a Pro Bowler this year. His ability is widely evident.

Again however, the Raiders found themselves in the redzone, but couldn’t punch it in and came away with a 13-7 lad following a Sebastian Janikowski field goal.

The Raiders defense then showed it could stop a dive and kill a 3rd down play and forced the Texans to punt after a 3-and-out.

The Raiders subsequently stalled on offense and would punt the ball away.

Now, the Raiders had the Texans backed up on their own 10-yard line. That wouldn’t last long as the Texans stormed 19 yards on one running play as the running back dragged defenders as they tried to strip the ball instead of wrapping him up and brining him down. Then after a 4th and 1 conversion, the Texans strung together enough plays to get themselves to the Raiders’ 35-yard line, but would get no further and would come away with a 53-yard field goal kick that cleared the corner of the crossbar and the upright by a mere couple of inches that brought Texas closer to Oakland with a score of 13-10.

The Raiders would go 3-and-out on their next (9-yard) drive and be forced to punt.

After a booming Shane Lechler punt, the Texans on offense would convert a 3rd down into a 69-yard pass and catch, because of a mis-tackle just beyond the first down marker. The receiver would get taken down on the Raiders 15-yard line. Thanks to some stout run defense from LB’s Thomas Howard and Kirk Morrison, the Texans were limited to a converted field goal attempt that brought the game to a tie13-13 with 38-seconds left before half time.

With 32-seconds left in the 2nd quarter, the Raiders get to just outside of the Texans’ 20-yard line, but because the scramble pass took too long to develop, the clock ran out and so with it an opportunity for Oakland to kick a field goal for the lead. Instead, the game would remain knotted up at 13-13 at halftime.

The Raiders would open the 2nd half on defense and would promptly put a halt to any aspirations of any Texans’ opening offensive drive and forced them to punt.

Oakland, on its first series of the second half was initiated powerful running by Fargas and nimble speed running by McFadden both for multiple first downs. One such run by McFadden got him so pumped that after he ran out of bounds, he could be seen violently pumping his fist and almost taking down Sebastian Janikowski who was practicing kicks. Jano would be fine as would the Raider offense after a couple plays later when Russell hit WR Johnnie Lee Higgins in the endzone to put the Raiders back on top 20-13. An elated Higgins could be seen doing the “Carlton Dance” in a celebratory dance.

On Houston’s next drive, they would find out just how hard the Raiders’ defense hit. Two big hits were delivered in time for Christmas. One would come on a first down reception as CB Nnamdi Asomugha put a lick on the tight end. The other hit came courtesy of CB Chris Johnson as he immediately dropped his man by putting a shoulder in his gut for no gain. The Texans would be forced to punt.

On the subsequent return, punt returner Johnnie Lee Higgins would run the ball back 80 yards for another Raider touchdown in front of a hungry and rabid die-hard crowd chanting “Raaaaaai-deeeeers” after the touchdown. This time, Higgins delighted the crowd with the “Humpty Dance” in the endzone. He also would demonstrate the dance to teammates on the bench. The dance-laden score would widen the Raiders lead to 27-13. The 27-points at this juncture would be the largest amount scored for this season by this 2008 Oakland Raiders team.

The Raiders defense also would tighten and give up nothing substantial on the Texans’ following drive and forced them to punt. (No magical return by Higgins this time)

Oakland’s offense on their next drive sparkled at moments, but didn’t find their way to a score and also would be forced to punt.

The Texans would get the ball next at the start of the 4th quarter. The Texans managed to gain a 1st down on a 16-yard pass due to a slipped Asomugha tackle. From there, Texas would string together enough plays to them into the redzone. With the Texans knocking on the door, Texas offensive lineman Chester Pitts committed a personal foul penalty when he took a big vicious swing of a punch at Raiders defensive tackle Terdell Sands that failed to connect. The penalty that backed them up 15-yards took them out of a touchdown chance as the following pass play was ruled incomplete just outside the Raiders endzone. The Texan who threw the punch was not ejected despite the manner in which he threw the punch. Houston settled for a field goal to make the score 27-16.

Oakland would make its first real mistake of the game when JaMarcus Russell fumbled the ball when an unblocked defender came free and tackled him. The ball was knocked loose as Houston recovered the ball on the Raiders’ 15-yard line.

Texas got the ball down to the Raiders’ 5-yard line and on 4th and 1, the Texans opted to go for it. Oakland’s defense would come up big as they forced the pass to be incomplete on an exceptionally covered pass attempt; much to the delight of the Oakland crowd.

Now, all Oakland had to do was to fight it’s way 95-yards to score another touchdown. With over 7-and-a-half minutes on the clock, Oakland kept the ball on the ground in an early attempt to run out the clock and at the very least, give punter Shane Lechler room to punt if necessary. The Raiders opted for the latter as they would settle on getting to their own 25-yard line as they would be forced to punt.

A low-lying punt from Lechler helped the Texans gain excellent field position as the ball was run back to Oakland’s 40-yard line. No worries though, as CD Chris Johnson picked off Texans’ QB Matt Schaub on their first play of the drive. Johnson got the ball back to the Raiders 45-yard line with over 4-minutes left.

With no time outs remaining for Houston, the Oakland Raiders converted on 3rd and 3 to gain the first down and burn some precious clock time. The Raiders would take the ball to the Texans’ 37-yard line at the 2-minute warning. It would be 3rd and 6 after the mandatory 2-minute warning timeout. Fargas failed to reach the first down marker on 3rd down, but would take their time to run another play on 4th down with 1:22 on the clock and fall short of the down marker (turnover on downs).

Houston got the ball with 1:11 on the game clock amidst a chorus of thankful Raider fans cheering their offensive unit for what they have been able to put together for “The Nation” this one last time at home this season. They put together a mini-drive as they got passed mid-field and to the Raiders 44 yard line. But with 17-seconds left, QB Matt Schaub would go down, SACKED, to end the game as the Raiders are triumphant for the last time this year in the old House Of Thrills.

Oakland would go on to win 27-16.

The Oakland Raiders placed wide receiver Ashley Lelie on injured reserve, ending his season and almost certainly his stint as a member of the Silver & Black.

In 13 games this season, Lelie has only 11 receptions for 197 yards and 2 scores.

The already thin and pedestrian receiving corps is expected to be without Ronald Curry this weekend because of a turf toe injury. His future is also in doubt, as there has been talk about the team parting ways with Curry and that his days may be numbered in Oakland after a disappointing season. 

Oakland has put four wide receivers on injured reserve in 2008; Javon Walker (ankle), Drew Carter (knee), Arman Shields (knee) and Lelie (calf).

With probably the weakest receiving unit in the league, the Raiders are averaging a league worst 142.9 yards passing per game. Their 6.0 yards per completion is 29^th in the NFL and the 26.8 pass attempts per contest is the worst in the league for the vertically challenged Raiders.

The Raiders activated Darrell Strong from the practice squad on Saturday.

STATUS REPORT – TEXANS

QUESTIONABLE

LB Xavier Adibi (groin)

PROBABLE

TE Clark Harris (illness), DE Jesse Nading (knee), G Chester Pitts (ankle)

Practice Report

DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

On Wednesday

LB Xavier Adibi (groin), G Chester Pitts (ankle)

On Thursday

LB Xavier Adibi (groin), TE Clark Harris (illness)

On Friday

RB Steve Slaton (not injury related)

LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

On Wednesday

DE Jesse Nading (knee)

On Thursday

DE Jesse Nading (knee), G Chester Pitts (ankle)

On Friday

LB Xavier Adibi (groin), TE Clark Harris (illness)

FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Friday

DE Jesse Nading (knee), G Chester Pitts (ankle)

STATUS REPORT – RAIDERS

OUT

LB Ricky Brown (groin)

DOUBTFUL

WR Ronald Curry (toe), WR Ashley Lelie (calf)

QUESTIONABLE

RB Luke Lawton (concussion)

PROBABLE

DT Tommy Kelly (knee), TE Zach Miller (shoulder)

Practice Report

DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

On Wednesday

LB Ricky Brown (groin), WR Ronald Curry (toe), DT Tommy Kelly (knee), WR Ashley Lelie (calf)

On Thursday

LB Ricky Brown (groin), WR Ronald Curry (toe), WR Ashley Lelie (calf)

On Friday

LB Ricky Brown (groin), WR Ronald Curry (toe), WR Ashley Lelie (calf)

LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

On Wednesday

RB Luke Lawton (concussion), TE Zach Miller (shoulder)

On Thursday

DT Tommy Kelly (knee), RB Luke Lawton (concussion), TE Zach Miller (shoulder)

On Friday

RB Luke Lawton (concussion)

FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

On Friday

DT Tommy Kelly (knee), TE Zach Miller (shoulder)

 

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

 

On Sunday, the Houston Texans (7-7) will try to extend their winning streak to a franchise record fifth straight when they visit the Oakland Raiders (3-11).

Neither club is making the playoffs, but the upstart Texans are shooting for their first nine-win season with victories to close out the season and a fourth straight win in their all-time series against the Silver & Black.

The emotional wear and tear of the season has tested Oakland’s young passer, as he stated this week, “It’s tough to tell the guys to keep fighting, just to keep pushing, that things are going to turn around.” JaMarcus Russell continued, “Everybody looks at each other like, ‘When?’ It’s really depressing.”

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

Oakland ranks 31^st in total yards per game, 32^nd in passing yards, 30^th in total points scored and 32^nd in third down conversion rate. The abysmal numbers are widespread on offense. Pick a category and Oakland is most likely ranked near the bottom of the rankings.

The one thing they could do earlier in the season was run the football. But even that part of their game has sputtered. In the final two weeks, the one thing the Raiders should showcase is their rookie rusher.

Darren McFadden has been a disappointment due to his injuries, the staff’s lack of creativity in using him and the ineffectiveness of the offense to balance itself out enough to make him a threat.

It’s time to feed McFadden the football, feature him the rest of the way and let him give some glimmer of hope for this offense’s future.

What to Expect:

Mario Henderson will be in at left tackle again. Kwame Harris shouldn’t see action the rest of the year and at this point, this glimpse of Henderson could go a long way in determining whether or not he can play on this offensive line in 2009.

Head coach Tom Cable has relegated him to the bench most of this season. And even with Harris’ struggles, Henderson was kept on the sidelines because of a perceived lack of passion in his game.

“It’s taken longer than I think anyone would have liked, but we’re seeing signs of it now, and that’s a good thing,” said Cable.

On Defense:

“It’s very frustrating,” said defensive end Derrick Burgess regarding his side of the football.

“I’ve been here four years. It’s the same defense. We’ve been running the same defense for four years. To still have these same kinds of problems is hard to explain.”

That is an indictment on Rob Ryan. And because of Ryan’s inability to field a consistent defense during his time in Oakland – even though talented young players are scattered on this defense – his days are likely numbered.

What to Expect:

Nnamdi Asomugha has struggled in recent weeks. And even though he did face one of the better receivers this league has ever seen last weekend, it appears that the first time pro-bowler has hit a wall. It doesn’t get any easier this weekend, as the league leader in receiving yards comes into town.

The Raiders need to generate more pressure from their front-seven or they’ll fall victim to a passer that has compiled 698 yards in his last two contest.

HOUSTON TEXANS

On Offense:

Matt Schaub has posted big passing numbers the last two weeks. With Andre Johnson being the best wide receiver in the game and Owen Daniels’ 60 receptions for 714 yards, it is easy to see why the Texans have the 4^th ranked pass attack in the league.

Kevin Walter, their third leading receiver, has more receptions (57) and receiving yards (859) than any Raider target.

What to Expect:

Rookie Steve Slaton has become the featured back in Houston. And with the Raiders horrendous rush defense, you can expect the former West Virginia star to run circles around Ryan’s bunch. Slaton has run for 1,124 yards – 7^th in the NFL – averaging a stellar 4.9 yards per carry.

If Johnson does not have big game, expect Walter or Daniels to get open on shallower routes and have a field day against a struggling linebacker crew that was chasing targets the last two weeks versus San Diego and New England.

On Defense:

The sensational linebacker DeMeco Ryans leads the defense. The team leader in tackles sounded confident this week about this weekends match-up.

“Yeah, we expect our team to go out there and win,” Ryans commented. “We’re not looking at Oakland as a cakewalk or anything like that. Even though a lot of people may expect us to win this game, we still understand that Oakland, they can get it done. If we go out there and we don’t play our game, they can definitely get it done. They have some great playmakers out there. It’s still the NFL.

“Everybody has their day. Everybody has their day to shine. We just can’t let them shine on us.”

What to Expect:

Mario Williams was voted to his first pro bowl this week. And now he faces a left tackle trying to find a niche in this league. It appears that Williams has cemented himself as a pass rushing menace in this league after bumps on the road early in his career.

“It was a lot thrown at me,” Williams said. “I’m thankful for it because I’ve seen so much stuff and I guess it kind of made me grow up a lot faster than I would expect to.”

Williams will get to Russell this weekend. How many times? I think Henderson is in for a long day.

GAME NOTES

• The Raiders have been outscored 110-45 since their last win at home versus the New York Jets.
• Both Ashley Lelie (calf) and Ronald Curry (toe) could miss the game. Johnnie Lee Higgins, who has been one of the few sparkplugs this season for Oakland, will start. Oakland should try to get the ball to Higgins in space, as he is very good once the football in his hands weaving through traffic.
• DE Trevor Scott leads all rookies with five sacks.

KEY MATCH-UPS

Asomugha vs. Johnson

The best confrontation of the day! They’ll one-up each other, but can the Raiders defense the other targets Schaub has to his disposal?

Miller Time!

Justin Miller has back-to-back games with kickoff returns for touchdowns. Will three be the charm?

The Slaton Sleigh

The rookie is a good pass catcher as well. If Oakland cannot contain him, this will be a blowout.

PREDICTION

Texans 29 – Raiders 16

TV & RADIO

The game will be televised on CBS with Bill Macatee providing play-by-play and former Raiders QB Steve Beuerlein handling color analysis.  If sold out per NFL blackout rules, the game will air locally on KPIX Channel 5. The game will also air in Sacramento on KOVR Channel 13 as well as on KHSL in Chico, KION in Monterey and KJEO in Fresno. The game will air on Raiders Radio originating on KSFO 560 AM, the Silver and Black Flagship for the multi-state Radio Network. Greg Papa and former Raiders player, assistant and head coach Tom Flores will man the booth for the 12th straight year. The radio pregame show and postgame show will feature Raider Legends George Atkinson and David Humm along with KGO’s Rich Walcoff. (BROADCAST INFORMATION CITED FROM OFFICIAL RAIDERS WEB SITE)

GAME INFO

Home Team: Oakland Raiders (3-11) Home: 1-6 Road: 2-5

Road Team: Houston Texans (7-7) Home: 5-2 Road: 2-5

When and Where: Sunday, December 21, 2008, 1:05 p.m. PT | Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Oakland, CA

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Despite another torturous season, the Oakland Raiders will have Nnamdi Asomugha and Shane Lechler as representatives in the Pro Bowl.

“I’m glad I’m going to have some company over there with Nnamdi being selected,” Lechler was quoted in a press release. “I’m very proud of him and feel that it’s a long time coming, so it will be good for him to get his first one under his belt.”

Asomugha has been one of the better cornerbacks in the AFC the last three seasons. Entering the 2006 campaign, Asomugha had no career interceptions, but that season, he tallied 8, as well as his first career touchdown on a 24-yard interception return versus the Pittsburgh Steelers. Being on a 2-win club, not having enough notoriety and complications with arranging a flight after being chosen as an alternate several hours before the game, obstructed the former first round draft pick’s path to his first NFL all-star game.

In 2007, opponents started neglecting his side of the field; earning the respect of quarterbacks with his crafty cover skills. But again, he was bypassed in the selection process for the Pro-Bowl – named only an alternate – despite being thrown at a meager 31 times with only 10 receptions completed to the receiver he was covering.

Before the 2008 campaign, he signed a $9.765 million tender after being tagged by the Raiders as their exclusive franchise player. That tag kept him off the market, and this off-season, Oakland may have to do the same to make sure he doesn’t bolt to another club after openly showing displeasure for the first time in his career regarding the state of the organization.

“Yeah, uh, I won’t comment on that on what will happen next year, what will happen with me as far as the contract. I would say all those types of questions I’ll just say no comment,” he stated earlier in the season after being asked about his future with the team.

Lechler is heading to Hawaii for the fourth time in his career. The punter currently leads the AFC in average (48.8) and net average (41.3); with both marks being second best in the entire league.

The former 5^th round pick has always been a stellar performer, but what has elevated his game is his ability to drop punts inside the opponent’s 20-yard line with more frequency. Last season, he pinned the football inside the 20-yard line 25 times. So far in 2008, he has done it 28 times – good for third best in the NFL.

“It is great to see our opponents and fans recognize both their talents and reward them with the highest individual honor,” Raiders coach Tom Cable stated in a press release. “The Raider organization is very proud of both Nnamdi and Shane.”

EXTRA POINTS

Asomugha is in for another pig payday. Another franchise designation in 2009 could land him an estimated $11.718 million, representing a 20 percent raise on his 2008 salary. He has voiced his displeasure in the past if this were to happen again. But the Raiders must protect themselves and lock up their most talented and valued commodity.

Even if he is soured enough on the organization to the point where he wants out, the Raiders have to tag him in order to get some compensation. Charles Woodson was tagged in back-to-back years and earned $19.32 million. But after injuries slowed him down, the Raiders deemed the unhappy cornerback a player on the decline when he departed to the Packers. They got nothing in return, and the same cannot happen with Asomugha.

Asomugha is in his prime and unlike Woodson, is known to be a model citizen on and off the field. That’s enough for the Raiders to try to lock up the best player they’ve developed in their current six-year span of ineptitude.

Oddly enough, Lechler’s contract is up at the end of this season, possibly putting two of the most productive Raiders in the free-agent market.

Oakland has been bringing in punters in for work over the last few weeks and the possibility of Lechler bolting is very possible. Could they use the transition tag on him to keep him around? He is the best punter in the league and if they feel he does not want to stick around, that may be the only chance of seeing him in Silver & Black in 2009. If they can’t come to a long-term agreement with Asomugha, they’ll have to franchise the cornerback as not to lose him without compensation.

If they lock up Asomugha, it will be interesting to see if the NFL sees their first punter get tagged with a franchise label.

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Randy Moss pointed to the back of his jersey on both touchdowns yesterday during the New England Patriots 49-26 thrashing of the dreary Oakland Raiders.

As he needed any more attention drawn to him.

The crowd knew who it was and he enjoyed rubbing it in; as the former Raider had a victorious return to the Bay area with his 5 receptions for 67 yards and 2 scores. Heck, he even went up against the pride and joy of the Raider Nation – Nnamdi Asomugha – and drew a couple of flags on the steady cornerback while making a few receptions on the one player the Silver & Black have that is in the stratosphere with him. Ok…maybe not.

Moss showed the fans in Oakland how he plays when he wants to play. And he showed them how he can perform when he cares about football, or when he has an agenda against the opponent.

“That’s just Randy being Randy,” said LaMont Jordan, another ex-Raider who made a successful return to the Black Hole. “I was definitely happy for him, especially the way the Oakland media had no good things to say about him. … We came here together to wear the Oakland uniform and to try to turn that program around. It didn’t work out and we both left on bad terms.”

The team jettisoned Moss when he wanted no part of an organization that was floundering. They traded him for a fourth round draft selection (John Bowie) and ridded themselves of a malcontent that could’ve caused way more damage than he did in his two seasons.

Moss’ vindication didn’t come when he romped through the Raiders secondary. Yeah, he wanted to show Raider Nation what type of player he really is per Wes Welker. “I think it meant a lot to him,” said his fellow receiver. “There was a lot of focus on Randy this week, just like every week. But you could tell he wanted this game and really wanted to show what kind of player he is.”

His vindication came when he was moved to a team that demanded respect from him that could corral his volatility and channel that talent onto what matters – winning on the field.

Moss’ return to limelight last season and the statistical epic regular season and playoff run he had with Tom Brady were enough of ‘I told you so…’, for those that casted him off. And Moss’ march towards the Hall of Fame is what ultimately people will remember, not his exiled time in Oakland.

THE COMMISH IN OAKLAND

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell was in attendance yesterday. He met with the media at halftime and spoke on a few topics:

WHY COME HERE NOW, COMMISSIONER?

“I try to get around to every stadium every couple of years. I haven’t been out here yet so…this is a game that we had picked a couple of months ago. I’m glad I’m here.”

YOUR IMPRESSIONS OF THIS STADIUM FACILITY AND THE AREA? ONE OF THE OLDEST IN THE NFL?

“It is. And it’s something that we’ve been meeting with a lot of people today about how to address that from a long-term standpoint. It’s clear, and I think everyone accepts it, that something has to get done here with a new stadium at some point. And I’ve had a chance to talk to some of the leadership here about how we can help in that process.

“There are a lot of passionate fans here, as you know, from talking to fans here.”

THE RAIDERS HAVE NOT BEEN COMPETITIVE FOR SOME TIME. DOES IT FALL WITHIN YOUR REALM AS COMMISSIONER TO ADDRESS?

“Not individually, no. Competitiveness…I think we’ve got a very competitive league. The Dolphins showed how fast you can turn a franchise around. The Atlanta Falcons have showed how fast you can turn a franchise around.

“This franchise has been competitive for decades. I’m sure Mr. Davis and the Raiders are going to turn that around.”

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT FOR THE RAIDERS TO REMAIN HERE IN OAKLAND ? THEIR LEASE IS UP IN A COUPLE OF YEARS.

“I think it’s important for all of our teams to stay in their communities. This is something we’ve focused on a n awful lot over the last 10 or 15 years, in trying to make sure we create an environment where the team can be successful, the community can be successful and together they can create a partnership that’s going to do great things for the fans and the community.”

CAN YOU SHARE WITH US ANY OF YOUR MEETING WITH AL DAVIS?

“No. Nothing that is significant. We talked about a variety of different issues. I don’t mean it was that secretive.”

SO, YOU CAN’T DIVULGE ANY DETAILS?

“No, we had a good dialogue about a variety of things that are happening in the league. And that’s part of what I do when I go to markets is want to hear from owners, I want to hear from club people, I want to hear from fans, I want to hear from the media.”

BURGESS A NON FACTOR

Derrick Burgess has no sacks since his return to the line-up after missing six games due to injury. He has 1.5 sacks all season and none in the Raiders last four games. And with the lack of pressure they’ve applied in recent weeks, it’s becoming more obvious the glaring need to generate more of a pass rush.

Burgess had hopes for a big season after injuries slowed him early last year. He ended 2007 strong and the Raiders felt he would get back to his dominant 2005 and 2006 form when he compiled 27 sacks and had back-to-back pro bowl appearances.

With one year remaining left on his 5-year deal, Burgess has to show in 2009 that he will be deserving of the raise he felt he should’ve got before the start of last season.

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto — SB Report Columnist

QUARTERBACK — D

A game of peaks and valleys for JaMarcus Russell; with far more bad play than good in a contest that got out of hand early. He ended 17-of-31 for 242 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. Due to the Patriots jumping out in front, the Raiders opened up the playbook and let Russell throw it around. Today he was wildly inaccurate in spots, overthrowing Chaz Schilens on a slant in the 1^st quarter and then making poor decisions; going down the field to Schilens when he had an open Darren McFadden on a dump off with space for him run after the catch. His targets didn’t help him, as Ronald Curry dropped a short crossing route on a 3^rd and 9 in the 1^st half, Zach Miller dropped an easy score in the 3^rd quarter and Johnnie Lee Higgins got handcuffed on what would’ve been a big gainer. Other pitiable moments included: Russell stripped by Mike Vrabel early in the game, which led to an 8 yard loss on a 3^rd and 9, on a roll out, he tried to release the football across his body and fumbled which he fell on for the recovery and on a audible on 2^nd and 2 from the Patriots 24-yard line, he left a pass way short of his intended receiver which fell into the hands of Jonathan Wilhite, ending a drive that could’ve led to points. The Raiders tried to mimic the success Joe Flacco had in torching Ricky Brown by sending Russell out on a pattern with Michael Bush throwing a pass that the quarterback could not haul in. Russell’s 10-yard pass to Curry on a fade pattern showed nice touch.

RUNNING BACKS — C-

Why does it take so long for McFadden to get touches in these games? His first action came in the 2^nd quarter. And when they got him in, the Raiders attempted a run out of the ‘Wildcat’ formation that gained no yards. When the Raiders incorporated him into the passing game, he showed his elusiveness and play-making abilities, as McFadden finished with 3 receptions for 68 yards. Oakland needs to use him more often on runs to the edges. He picked up 12-yards on a pitch in which he beat Patriot defenders to the sideline. His blocking leaves a lot to be desired still, but there are no excuses for not having McFadden out there as much as possible. Justin Fargas carried the ball 15 times and tallied 70 yards rushing.

WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS — D

Zach Miller led this group once again with 5 receptions for 60 yards. He dropped an easy score, but his block was able to spring loose Higgins on his 56-yard touchdown. Higgins had 3 catches for 66 yards, but could’ve had another big play on his stat line if not for a drop in the 3^rd quarter. On his touchdown reception in the 1^st quarter, Higgins showed good vision in the open field – similar to when he is returning kicks. Curry had 2 grabs for 19 yards and appeared hindered by an injury during the game.

OFFENSIVE LINE — C

No Kwame Harris, no problems at left tackle. Mario Henderson played well replacing the vilified free-agent acquisition. Cooper Carlisle was flagged for holding on a first down run by Fargas and Robert Gallery had a false start on the game’s second drive; one of the first three drives that were three and out for Oakland. Not a bad day overall considering recent performances by the offensive line. Only two sacks allowed, but Russell was flushed out of the pocket frequently which made it more difficult for him to get the ball down the field accurately.

DEFENSIVE LINE – F

The Patriots ended with 277 yards rushing. Heck, they made LaMont Jordan look good with his 12 carries for 97 yards, which included a 49-yard scamper for a touchdown. Matt Cassel wasn’t pressured enough and the Patriots offense looked like a well oiled machine when they got in the end zone in their first five possessions. Trevor Scott tallied two sacks (has four in the season; his first two came against the Jets), replacing an ineffective Kalimba Edwards and had a nice stop behind the line of scrimmage, tackling Jordan for a 3-yard loss. Jay Richardson also saw some time in the 2^nd half in place of Derrick Burgess, who has not been able to turn up the field and get to the quarterback consistently. Since his return from injury four games ago, Burgess has not been able to record a sack. On a 3^rd and 2 in the first quarter, Burgess was flagged for offsides, and at that point, the Patriots were 5-for-5 on 3^rd down conversions.

LINEBACKERS — F

This group had their worst outing of the season. Thomas Howard was non-existent and Kirk Morrison spent most of the day chasing down Kevin Faulk who had 6 receptions for 66 yards and 1 touchdown. The Patriots confused the Raider linebackers with misdirections, screens and shallow routes all day.

SECONDARY — F

Randy Moss and Wes Welker beat up on the Raiders secondary today. Nnamdi Asomugha lost many confrontations against his former teammate, most notably in the 3^rd quarter when Moss had consecutive catches of 11 and 14 yards before ending the drive with his second touchdown of the day – a 9-yard haul that made the score 42-14. On both scores, Moss turned his back to ‘the Black Hole’ and pointed to the back of his jersey to incite more boos from the crowd. Asomugha has played sub par football in recent weeks and today; he got flagged three times in the secondary (one was not accepted, as he was beat by Moss for 13 yards on the reception). Gibril Wilson recorded his second interception of the season when Ben Watson botched a perfectly thrown ball by Cassel.

SPECIAL TEAMS — C-

In consecutive games, Justin Miller has kickoff returns for a touchdown. Last week against San Diego, he ripped a 92-yard return in the second quarter. Today, he scored on a 91-yard dash that made the game 28-14 in the second quarter. On the ensuing kickoff, Ellis Hobbs torched the Raider coverage teams with a 95-yard return of his own that deflated the crowd and propelled the Patriots back up 35-14. Hiram Eugene had a couple of solid special team tackles, but Shane Lechler today had an average – by his standards – day, punting 6 times at a 43.5 clip in the steady rain fall. Sebastian Janikowski had an extra appoint blocked in the 3^rd quarter.

COACHING – F-

Tom Cable needs to find ways to get McFadden in the flow of the game a lot quicker. Oakland has no comeback-ability. And the Raiders seem to dig themselves a big hole, taking them out of what they want to do on offense and then forcing the ball into the hands of Russell with no flow to the attack. Rob Ryan takes a big hit after this game and his days on the sidelines for the Raiders are numbered. The Patriots did what they wanted on offense. Yes they executed well and put Cassel in spots where he can move the ball around to his rushers on shallow routes and crossing patterns. But Oakland’s defense had no fight in it and barely made an attempt to slow down an offense that moved the ball up and down the field with relative ease.

EXTRA POINTS

• After missing some time this week due to the death of his father, Matt Cassel ended with a career high four touchdown passes. He ended the game 18-of-30 for 218 yards and 7 carries for 18 yards.
• In their return to Oakland, former Raiders LaMont Jordan and Randy Moss combined for 164 total yards and 3 scores.
• The Raiders notched their second offensive touchdown of the season in the first half with Higgins 56-yard reception. That was the first time they hit paydirt in their last 20 possessions.
• At the half, New England had rushed for 160 yards and led the Raiders 21-5 in first downs.
• Oakland became the first team in NFL history to lose at least 11 games in six straight seasons.

DeMarcus Davis — Staff Writer 

OAKLAND, CA - Oakland would win the opening toss and elect to receive first. On the ensuing kickoff, the kick returner chose to bring the ball out 2-yards deep into the endzone instead of downing it. The kick returner would realize his mistake as he would get dropped on his own 7-yard line. After nominal yards on the ground and a severely errant pass, the Raiders would be forced to punt; an opening 3-and-out.

 

The New England Patriots would make the Raiders pay immediately after returning the punt to Oakland’s 40-yard line. The Pats would march 40 yards and end the drive with a touchdown pass to go ahead 7-0 before five minutes had even run off the game clock.

 

The Raiders would go 3-and-out after a JaMarcus Russell forced fumble (Raiders recovery) and once again be forced to punt from deep within its own territory. The Pats would again make the Raiders pay with its great field positioning, this time throwing a short pass to WR Randy Moss or a 14-0 lead. Thus far, aside from the kickoffs, the entire game has been played on the Raiders half of the field. It wouldn’t be until the 6:51 mark in the first quarter that any football would be played into Patriots territory; and even that had come after yet another 3-and-out by the hands of the Raiders offense.

 

However, that tin little victory would not last for long because the Patriots would put on an offensive clinic and stomp 83-yards and score yet another touchdown. This time on the ground (thanks to some missed tackles by the Raiders defense) to widen the lead to 21-0.

 

Oakland would try to make a game of it with a touchdown pass and run from JaMarcus Russell to WR Johnnie Lee Higgins to then make it 21-7. The play would briefly energize both the players and the fans; especially after seeing so many 3-and-outs by Oakland’s offense and so many missed tackles, penalties, and blown coverages by the defense.

 

On the next Patriot drive, New England would exploit one of those above mentioned Raider problems…blown defensive coverage. The Raiders, whose players on Wednesday talked about covering Pats WR Wes Welker, allowed him to run the field wide open and largely unmolested. This time, Welker would get into the endzone on another wide open pass to push the lead to 28-7.

 

Oakland’s special teams decided to take matters into their own hands by reeling off a 91-yard kick return by CB Justin Miller to set the stadium on fire and get the Raiders back in it 28-14. On the ensuing Raider kickoff, their special teams would give that momentum back to New England with a touchdown return of their own. Ironically, this coming moments after the stadium P.A. was playing the song “Swagger Like Us” on its concert like stadium speakers just before the kick to New England. The score ballooned back into the Patriots favor 35-14.

 

After another failed offensive drive and punting to the Patriots yet again, Oakland found a way to stop a driving New England offense…intercept them! Albeit it came off a tipped pass by a Pats WR, it was still a break Oakland desperately needed.

 

All of a sudden, the Raiders’ offense looked like a cohesive unit; running for first downs and completing 20+ yard passes and got managed to get close to the redzone. Everything was looking swimmingly, that is until Russell grossly under threw a pass intended for WR Ashley Lelie in the endzone and was intercepted.

 

Thankfully, the Patriots would run out of time and time outs after having pushed the ball up field into field goal range and getting a penalty called against them with 11 seconds left on the clock in the first half. Because the penalty was against the Pats and within the last 2 minutes, a 10-second run off would be subtracted from the game clock. New England wasn’t able to put points on the board before the end of the half, but would put up 7-points at the beginning of the 3^rd quarter with a connection from Patriots’ QB Matt Cassell to WR Randy Moss to extend their lead 42-14.

 

Chants of “Tui…Tui…Tui…” could be heard raining from the stands as Russell fumbled and recovered the ball on 3^rd down. Actually, the ball slipped out of his hand on the back-swing as he did he did earlier this season in dry weather.

 

 

After a timely Oakland defensive stop, the Raiders runningbacks Justin Fargas and Darren McFadden would help carve up a Patriots defense and get the Raiders close enough in the redzone to gain a touchdown off a pass to Ronald Curry to bring Oakland closer to the Pats with a score of 42-20. The extra point would have made it 21-points, but a low Sebastian Janikowski pass was tipped and the Raiders had to settle for just the six points.

 

During the second half of the game, Oakland’s defense had improved as it has stopped New England’s drive following the Raiders’ recent touchdown drive.

 

One of the other few bright spots for Oakland besides the kick returning was the screen pass; a weapon the Raiders have been unable to utilize or execute because of suspect offensive line play during the season. Another positive aspect to today’s game was that former backup offensive tackle Mario Henderson, who is in to start for the incumbent starter Kwame Harris, has performed admirably considering Henderson had to play opposite one of the premiere defensive ends Richard Seymour and for all intents and purposes, held his own all game long. The only question is why it took the Raiders’ coaching staff so long?

 

With all that being said, there was still some football left to be played. With just over six and a half minutes left in the game, the ultimate payback would be doled out by former disgruntled and maligned Raider runningback LaMont Jordan, who not only ran for 97-yards on 12 carries, but also gained his first touchdown the entire season on a 49-yard scamper into the endzone to deliver another painful reminder of the Raiders’ ill-fated player personnel decisions (first with Randy Moss and now with Jordan). The chickens have come home to roost with the score now being 49-20.

 

Oakland would manage to get a touchdown in garbage time but failed on the two-point conversion and came away with a narrower loss margin of 49-26. The 26 points is the largest amount of points scored for the entire season and it came in a loss. The Raiders would go on to lose 49-26 in front of soggy die-hard fans and the NFL Commissioner (who was in attendance in today’s game to talk with owner Al Davis).