Silver and Black Report

The Raider Nation is not happy.

Well, more than anything, their bored with the current state of the club and feel like this team has abandoned any chance at improving this off-season via free agency. With an un-capped year, the sentiment from the Oakland Raiders fan base is that they should purge themselves of all the hefty contracts and unproductive players or, bring in some big names that can instill some semblance of hope for next season.

Here are a few moves the Silver & Black should make that make football sense and will appease their following.

Get rid of JaMarcus Russell

Yes, this relationship should be ended. Russell has not shown any leadership qualities, has a poor work ethic and has been completely inept when on the field. It’s so bad, that when Bruce Gradkowski came into games, he suddenly became the almighty savior and the entire offense sparked up because there was a competent passer in control of the huddle and game plan. Russell does have serious talent. But he’ll never channel that in a positive way – especially not in Oakland. The enormity of being the 1^st overall pick, shouldering the burden of a large contract and being the focal point of an organization that was sinking rapidly was not understood by Russell. Even if he goes somewhere else and the scenery is changed, Russell just does not show any urgency to be great – that huge signing bonus is enough for him.

Acquire Troy Smith or a vet QB; let them battle with Gradkowski

Troy Smith wants out of Baltimore. He would prefer to land in Cleveland, but Oakland may be a nice option for him. Smith would re-unite with Hue Jackson – his position coach with the Ravens – and get a fair shot to start in this league. If Smith thinks he can be atop a team’s depth chart, then competing against Gradkowski should be something he should embrace. Neither Smith nor Gradkowski have the natural talent that Russell had out of college, but both have intangibles that are far more desirable for a team looking to bounce back to respectability. Both will fight for their job and will give the Raiders hope at quarterback. If not Smith, bringing in another veteran, someone who has NFL experience, as a starter and had past success, that could also be an option.

Avoid picking up any veteran FA RB

Justin Fargas was let go. Partly, because it was time for the Raiders to hand over the reigns of the offense to Darren McFadden and Michael Bush. Yes, both have major question marks, whether they can stay healthy or carry the load. But eventually, they have to let both of these young players get their deserved reps and demonstrate why they were taken in the draft. Staying away from a LaDanian Tomlinson or a Larry Johnson is the key. Why bring in a veteran rusher who will want to take away carries from McFadden or Bush?

Extend Zach Miller NOW

Since my vision involves purging, why not then transfer that freed money over to a very productive player. In 2011, Miller will be a free agent. So avoid any snags and deal in good faith with the tight end by keeping him in Silver & Black for the next 5-to-6 seasons. Since entering the NFL, Miller has improved his statistics every year. Quite the feat when you consider his one of the only options that are considered a threat on offense for a very feeble attack.

Lock up Seymour

Richard Seymour would be very happy if Oakland approached him with a respectable long-term deal that will ensure a boatload of money the next few seasons. This will also help the Raiders keep a key cog on defense and a solid leader to anchor this momentous turnaround they are looking for. No, he won’t command Julius Peppers money, but a 4-5 year deal worth around $55 million with about $22-25 in guarantees could get it done.

Oakland Raiders quarterback Bruce Gradkowski was on KNBR on Tuesday and spoke openly about his position with the club, wanting to get a fair shot to start in 2010, the return of Tom Cable and other topics. Here’s a transcript of his chat.

About being on the air and disseminating information:

Anything I can do to get to the fans out in this area and a lot of Raider fans, and we’re excited.

Reflections of the Pittsburgh Steelers game – his homecoming:

Oh, it was unbelievable. To go home, be in front of all my family and friends and to get a big win against a good football team like that was unbelievable. Just for my family, in sharing that with me and just the excitement. Just the feeling we had in the locker room and as a team that we were finally coming together.

About his college career, putting up great numbers and surpassing legendary names:

Just to be mentioned in the same sentence with those guys – it’s an honor. But it’s also humbling to know, I have a lot more to do in my career to even be mentioned with those guys. Being out now in the west coast, you saw what Joe Montana did out on the west coast. Hopefully one day I can do that for the Raiders. It’s definitely in my future and my goals and the dreams I have.

That was an awesome game against the Steelers, but it also would make it even more special if that was the AFC Championship game and we are going to the Super Bowl after that win. That’s kind of what I’m thinking about.

About the return of Tom Cable:

Yeah, coach Cable is going to be back. A lot of our coaching staff has stayed the same and we brought in a good coach in Hue Jackson, coming from the Baltimore Ravens, and you know, I’m excited.

Have you’ve been told Cable will be back, specifically?

We are going to work everyday like it’s the same. Coach Cable is in there working and that’s all I care about. I don’t look into details, but I just go in and take care of my own business and whoever is there I’m going to work with and we are going to do just fine.

Last season’s inconsistent play, beating the Steelers and Eagles, but failing against lesser opponents or in back-to-back games:

I think it shows that we are a good football team. And the only thing we have to work on is being consistent. And that’s the number one thing we are going to be focused on coming into this year is knowing and understanding that we are a good football team – the Oakland Raiders can compete with anyone. And we’ve proven that, we’ve showed that and now its just time to be consistent and show week-in and week-out and just prepare like that every week and believe in ourselves and know that we can get the job done just like any other team in the NFL.

What he brought to the table as oppose to JaMarcus Russell and if his leadership and work ethic was what won people over:

I think so. It was the way I’ve been raised.

Your going to get what you deserve. I believe that, so I’m just going to keep on working hard, just like I’ve been and that’s just the way my parents raised me.

I’m not really worried about how other people do their job. I’m just worried about being a professional, taking care of my own business and when the opportunity comes, just take advantage of it. And I was blessed with a good opportunity this past season.

About the situation with Russell, and how his large contract may dictate what occurs on the field:

Well, its tough. A guy like Jeff Garcia whose been in the league for years and he’s been successful, he’s never gotten the big signing bonus, the big contract that he’s deserved. And you know, its crazy how things work out in the NFL. It’s frustrating to a certain point, but you can’t worry about those things.

You just keep on working hard and good things will come. And you’ll get what you deserve. So that’s all I can really focus on.

Whether he’s officially signed?

I haven’t officially signed with them yet. They offered a second round tender. So its still free agency going on, so there are other teams out there, but in my heart, I want to be in Oakland. I believe I’ll be in Oakland and I’ll like to be here for years to come. I just feel a good presence here, especially with the fan-base we have. It’s the best in football and fans that love their team. And we need to give them something to cheer for. So that’s what I’m looking forward to changing this year and going in and having a good season.

Do you want assurance about having an open quarterback competition?

Yeah, I think that’s the way it always has to go. I believe that in any business that you are on, any field of work, competition just makes you better and the best person should be out there for the job. I think that’s the way it should take place. That’s the way it will take place and I’m looking forward to it. I’m just excited for getting this opportunity and like I’ve said, competition makes you better and there’s going to be competition everywhere. It’s just the nature of the game. So I’m looking forward to it this year and I’ll love to get it from the start and see what we can do with it.

About being the underdog year in and year out and communicating with Jeff Garcia:

Yeah, that’s why I think me and Jeff have such a good relationship. I think we are so similar in so many ways. At this point in Jeff’s career, where I’m at, he wasn’t even in the NFL, he was still in Canada, so I still have to stay positive. He reminds me of that. And when the opportunity comes, take advantage of it…

If you can win football games, if you can find a way to win, I think that’s all that matters. It doesn’t matter about how much skill you really have, its about does the team rally around you, do you get the job done, are you smart and the leadership role – I think that’s one of the most important things about being a quarterback.

Differences between Cable and Jon Gruden:

I think every coach is different. And that is what makes every coach unique. There is no really right way to do it – it’s your own way. And I think coach Gruden, coach Gruden wanted his hands in everything. He was the offensive coordinator, the QBs coach, he kind of did everything.

Coach Cable is more of a overseer. A discipline guy. He’s a player’s type coach. The players want to play for a coach like coach Cable. He’s easy to communicate with and he wants the best for his players. So you like playing for a coach like that. Gruden and Cable, they each have their own way and its all about how to get the job done. And I think coach Cable did a great job with us last year and so, I’m exciting in moving forward with him this year and I think there are good things in store for us.

About the Randy Hanson incident:

I think the players, we just kind of have to worry about our job.

Just coming to work everyday and letting that stuff be handle by the people that handle that situation.

It’s unusual but, I think Mr. [Al] Davis, he just wants to win. And I think he really just wants to win and he wants the best for his players.

I’m hoping our fans back us from day one, ‘cause we can use them and we need them to be a part of this year and to be a part of this thing when we turn it around.

It’s obvious that the Oakland Raiders are ready to go into 2010 season with Bruce Gradkowski on their quarterback corps after he received a second-round tender this week.

He could potentially earn $1.759 million under the one-year tender.

And the Raiders believe that he can compete with JaMarcus Russell next season for the starting job.

But lets state the facts; neither has proven anything in the NFL. Russell has been a bust so far and has no leadership skills. Gradkowski is fiery and elevated the spirit of his teammates, but he’s also limited and has done little to prove that he can be a successful starting caliber quarterback that can do it from week-to-week.

The other guy in the picture – Charlie Frye – was given his original round tender. But he’s definitely a third stringer at best and a player that is valued more for his mental acuity for the game than his actual on the field ability.

So why not bring in a veteran who may be ready to rejuvenate his career or retain a starting job? Why not bring in a quarterback who actually has a solid resume and has been a proven winner atop someone’s depth chart?

Yes, Jake Delhomme was just jettisoned by the Carolina Panthers. No, he’s not the guy I’m talking about. I am talking about a quarterback in the same conference that will probably be ousted very soon by his club.

Marc Bulger.

The St. Louis Rams just finalized a deal with A.J Feeley. They have some options at quarterback that intrigue them and taking a passer in the draft is not completely out of the question.

Parting ways with Bulger is expected due to the $8.5 million salary he’s slated to make in 2010 – money the 33-year old will not likely see as the Rams can easily escape from that this off-season.

Bulger’s career has been way more productive than any of the Raiders current crop of passers. He led the Rams to a 12-4 record in 2003 and into the 2^nd round of the playoffs. Bulger is a two time pro-bowler and the Rams thought so highly of him, they game him a six-year, $62.5 million extension in 2007.

A few lackluster seasons along with injuries have slowed him down. But this is the type of passer that Oakland needs to bring into the fold.

Going young and not having a passer with Bulger’s experience or ability to push the other quarterbacks fighting for the top spot may not be the right move.

And there is no denying that Bulger is still capable of flinging the football all over the field with success.

“I think Marc is extremely talented,” Kurt Warner said in February. “I think he brings a lot to the table. But the thing you always realize as a quarterback is that you’re never going to have great success if you don’t have great players around you. They’ve obviously been going through a rebuilding process. A lot of changes have taken place over the last few years. Although Marc can still play, he hasn’t had the opportunity to really do what he is capable of doing. That has been the frustrating part.”

Another former teammate, D’Marco Farr stated, “Now there’s a guy [Bulger] with all the talent in the world in my opinion. Has the same brain as Kurt Warner; they were trained under the same guy in Mike Martz.”

He continued, “It’s a sad deal because the guy can wing the football. I mean the guy can flat play,” praising his ability, but he also commented that his downfall may be his lack of charisma.

Regardless, Bulger has all the tools and more importantly, the experience in this league to get the job done – something that neither Russell nor Gradkowski have proven.

When Bulger is released – which is highly likely – that’s the type of player they need to really elevate the competition at quarterback going into the summer. He’s the type of talent that can push the others on the roster because of his body of work.

Bulger will come cheap and he would consider Oakland because his arrival could land him a job under center.

I’m sure he’s confident enough that he can beat out any of the players the Raiders line up to battle for the job. And that could be enough to entice him to come to the Bay Area.

And that’s the type of player that in the past Oakland has had success with at quarterback – passers looking to revive their career after being thrown overboard by former teams.

Reports in February stated that Bulger had cleaned out his locker.

If he’s truly a goner – and all indications are that the Rams are ready to go in a different direction…

The Raiders should target Bulger and give him a shot at their opening at quarterback.

It appears that the Oakland Raiders want to keep Bruce Gradkowski around to push JaMarcus Russell.

A report on SFGate.com stated that Tom Cable spoke to Gradkowski’s agent about the Silver & Black’s intentions to assign a second-round tender to the underdog passer.

If that occurs, Oakland will have a chance to match any offer tendered by another team or accept a second round selection if Gradkowski departs.

The tender can worth as much as $1.759 million if he stays in Oakland for one-season.

Even in a quarterback-starved league, Gradkowski is not worth a second round pick to another club, which will likely keep him from going anywhere. Especially since he ended the season injured and really only played sparingly as the campaign wound down.

Yes, he woke up the offense and got some rejuvenating victories, but the team was dead in the water with JaMarcus Russell starting and at that point, any success by anyone under center would have been invigorating to the team and fan-base.

Oakland Raiders head coach Tom Cable talked at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis this weekend. He shot down the notion that the Silver & Black draft based on attributes only – how Oakland focuses on speedy prospects – “How about the best player? Let’s talk that way,” Cable said. “… We need to get better in some areas, and so at this thing (the combine), find who you think the best players are, whether they jump the highest or run the fastest. That shouldn’t make a damn difference. He has to be able to play football good enough for us to become a championship team.”

Oakland has been scrutinized for years about their draft strategies and in 2009, the received criticism for selecting wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey 7^th overall – who ended his rookie campaign with 9 receptions, 124-yards and 1 score.

Michael Crabtree, Jeremy Maclin, Percy Harvin, Hakeem Nicks and Kenny Britt were chosen in the first round after Heyward-Bey – all out-performed the Raiders rookie and showed to have more potential in their initial seasons.

Cable also hinted to an open competition at quarterback after the abysmal season JaMarcus Russell had and the way the team looked when other passers where inserted into the line-up.

“We’re getting ready to start offseason and get to OTAs and minicamp and let the (quarterback) job be competed for,” he said. “I think that’s where we’re at in terms of our starting quarterback.

“I don’t think you would discount (using a pick on) that or any other position.”

When Cable catapulted Bruce Gradkowski atop the depth chart, the team had their best offensive outputs and scored victories at home versus playoff bound Cincinnati and on the road against Pittsburgh.

Players stated that the attack was far more dynamic and that there was a jolt of confidence when Gradkowski was in there, as oppose to Russell.

Third stringer Charlie Frye even had his chances to show what he could do, as Cable elected to go with the journeyman instead of Russell prior to a game against the Broncos when Gradkowski went down with knee injuries.

“(JaMarcus and I) have talked a couple of times,” Cable stated this weekend. “I know he’s working. I’m anxious for the off-season program to get started where you get a chance to see him all the time.”

Cable also addressed the rumors regarding the team’s intentions with their roster.

“We get a ton of calls about a lot of players on our football team all the time,” he said. “In fact, before I came in here I was on the phone about something. To me, that stuff happens in the NFL and it’s going to happen and it’s going to happen all the time. People call you and you listen and see if anything interests you or doesn’t interest you. Sometimes it’s crazier than you think. … You really just take the call and listen.”

If I were Bruce Gradkowski, why wouldn’t I want to stick around in Oakland?

Yes, all signs point to the Silver & Black giving JaMarcus Russell another shot to fulfill their destiny for him – to become the organization’s franchise passer. Yes, as long as Al Davis feels that his prized strong-armed passer can develop until a competent player, he’ll give him as many opportunities to do so.

And even if Tom Cable has other plans for Russell, the facts are that Davis will have ultimate say on whether or not the former LSU star will be in the huddle or on the sideline, not the coach.

With all that said, Gradkowski coming back to Oakland for another year could give him the best shot for getting back on the field than any other option that may be out there.

Russell has not shown the maturity level or the work ethic to grab that starting position and make his own. He lacks many fundamentals and is lacking throughout his football repertoire enough to make you wonder if he can ever bounce back from this horrid start to his career.

And that is why Gradkowski should sit tight and realize that he may be the next in line.

Most of the players got an energy and vibe from Gradkowski that was not present with Russell. They were far more productive on offense with Gradkowski and at this point, its safe to say that the coaches that remain on staff realize that the journeyman is more of a sparkplug and provides more intangibles than the multi-millionaire.

When Gradkowski limped off the field against the Washington Redskins and Russell took over, the team was deflated. “You could kind of see it emotionally a little bit, the wind left our sails, so to speak, just a little bit, when that happened,” defensive end Jay Richardson said.

Langston Walker praised the passer after the victory in Pittsburgh, stating, “Bruce is fiery. He’s yelling at us, screaming at us, running around like a banshee, but it’s all controlled. That’s how he gets it done. You saw the result.”

And Oakland’s most productive player on offense – Zach Miller – and Russell’s security blanket on the field commented this season, “A love for the game that he shows in the way he plays, the way he calls plays. The way he works on details of plays with players, in between. He’s just uh, I think that’s the main thing I’m seeing with him. It’s just, he’s a get-after-it type of guy.

“He’s obviously a pretty smart guy, reads things well, throws a real good ball. He’s a pro quarterback, so they’re all good. We feel like we’ll be able to throw it around better now.”

All signs of a team that feels more confident with one signal caller, than the other.

And this is why Gradkowski should stick around and Oakland should try to do everything within reason to keep him in Silver & Black.

If Gradkowski overvalues himself and tries to break the bank – which is highly unlikely – then he isn’t worth keeping around.

But Oakland needs to realize that his presence is a safety net they need just in case Russell continues his horrid play.

“I plan to be back with the Raiders,” Gradkowski stated to The Toledo Blade “I think everything will work out, and I’m looking forward to it. We did a lot of good things this year and I’m looking forward to next season.”

Gradkowski also mentioned his roaming NFL lifestyle, “I’m all over the place, and hopefully I can settle down soon.”

And as for his outlook for the Raiders, it seems like he has a good grasp of the situation he may be presented.

“I think at this point, hopefully, they’ll just pick the best guy to be out there on the field,” he replied. “Money’s not an issue, but I know in this business it kind of is when you invest a lot of money in someone. All I ask for is an opportunity to compete.”

It may not be a fair one to begin if the Raiders force Russell onto the field. But unless he changes drastically, Gradkowski will get his shot to compete, and rightfully so.

Best Offensive Player:

Zach Miller, Tight End – 66 rec. 805 yards 3 TD

It amazes me how on a horrendous offense, Miller continues to improve on his numbers on a yearly basis. Raiders don’t have many scary targets on offense. And Miller is not as dynamic as other tight ends around the league, but he sure is productive and a solid blocker.

Best Defensive Player:

Nnamdi Asomugha, Cornerback

Among the best defenders in the NFL. Asomugha is a complete defensive back and a better citizen.

Best Special Team Player:

Shane Lechler, Punter

The Pro Bowl talent ended with a 51.1 average, short of Sammy Baugh’s 51.4 record set in 1940. But he did break the net average mark with 43.9, topping the 41.2 he set last season.

Best Coach:

Lionel Washington, Defensive Backs

Tyvon Branch matured into a solid starter, Michael Huff had his best season as a pro, rookie Mike Mitchell gave the backfield a jolt and Asomugha is among the best. Washington did a solid job with this group.

Least Valuable Offensive Player:

Darrius Heyward-Bey, Wide Receiver

Nine receptions for 124-yards and one score. Two carries for 19-yards. This from the seventh overall pick in the NFL draft with $23.5 million in guarantees coming to him.

Least Valuable Defensive Player:

Chris Johnson, Cornerback

It’s hard to constantly be the target of opponents, especially with Asomugha on the other side. But Johnson gave up too many big plays and was a weak spot in a secondary that was solid to very good at times.

Most Improved Player:

Tyvon Branch, Strong Safety

He was a tackling machine around the line of scrimmage and developed into one of the upcoming SS in the conference.

Least Improved Player:

JaMarcus Russell, Quarterback

The stats were horrendous, his development was non-existent and when you get benched in favor of Bruce Gradkowski and Charlie Frye, you know things are bad. He went from being the first overall pick and possible savior to public enemy number one.

Best Rookie (Offense):

Louis Murphy, Wide Receiver – 34 rec. 521 yards 4 TD

He was fiery, injected life to a dead unit at times and was a gamer. Sure he had his drops, mental lapses and was sometimes the victim of bad calls from officials, but the 4^th round pick has legitimate potential to be a starting caliber receiver at this level.

Best Rookie (Defense):

Matt Shaughnessy, Defensive Lineman

He compiled four-sacks and played well in the interior when tabbed in the second half of the season with more reps.

Player Missed the Most due to Injury:

Robert Gallery, Left Guard

He missed six regular season games with a broken leg before returning to the line-up, but then he injured his lower back in December and Oakland shut him down for the season. By far the best offensive lineman they have.

Most entertaining player when entering the field:

Sebastian Janikowski, Kicker

He enjoyed his best season as a pro. He was 26-of-29, with his only misses coming from long distance.

Deserving of more carries award:

Michael Bush, Running Back

He ended the campaign with a team leading 589 yards rushing. Bush averaged 4.8 a carry and had the best two rushing performances by a raider this season (119 vs. KC and 133 vs. DEN).

Hardest Worker Award:

Justin Fargas, Running Back

Probably the least talented of the trio of rushers but no one runs harder or with more intensity.

The ‘I want out…’ Award:

Javon Walker, Wide Receiver

He signed a six-year $55 million deal with $16 million in guarantees in March of 2008. Since, he has been one of the biggest free-agent busts in league history. Walker has been inactive all season and left in the organizations doghouse.

Best Victories:

1. Week 13 – Raiders 27 – Steelers 24: A 21-point barrage in the 4^th quarter led by Bruce Gradkowski’s 308-yards passing and 3 touchdowns. The 35-point final quarter was exciting and full of big plays, including two Murphy touchdowns: one for 75-yards and the closing score from 11-yards out.
2. Week 15 – Raiders 20 – Broncos 19: Charlie Frye started, J.P Losman got a snap but JaMarcus Russell was the one who put a road block on Denver’s effort to make the playoffs with his game winning touchdown pass at Invesco Field. Michael Bush had 133 yards and a touchdown on 18-carries.
3. Week 11 – Raiders 20 – Bengals 17: The Bruce ‘Almighty’ Gradkowski stint started with a win. Oakland scored 13 second half points in a frantic finish. “As a team, we’re not really known for fighting back, and we came back,” rookie Louis Murphy said.

Worst Losses:

1. Week 7 – Jets 38 – Raiders 0: New York came in reeling; losing three in a row, missing Kris Jenkins after his injury a week earlier, a struggling rookie passer, a coach beleaguered by the media that had to travel to the west coast. Oakland allowed 316 rushing yards, led by rookie Shonn Greene, this after beating the Eagles a week earlier in the midst of back-to-back home games.
2. Week 3 – Broncos 23 – Raiders 3: Denver went 3-0 with a road victory in the Black Hole. Oakland was held to 137 yards of offense, and at the time, it was only the third time since 1993 that they had offensive outputs of less than 200-yards in ensuing weeks. Russell had only one passing yard in the second half and thus began the weekly booing’s in Oakland.
3. Week 14 – Redskins 34 – Raiders 13: Russell came in for an injured Gradkowski and sucked the life out of the offense. An offense that tallied nearly 200-yards of offense against the Redskins went to hibernation when Russell took over.

Best Moments of the Season:

1. Zach Miller’s 86-yard touchdown romp versus the Philadelphia Eagles that was aided by two stellar blocks by rookie Louis Murphy.
2. Bruce Gradkowski’s 29-yard game tying touchdown pass to Murphy with 33 seconds left versus the Cincinnati Bengals. On the ensuing kickoff, Brandon Myers forced a fumble which set-up Janikowski for a game winning 33-yard field goal. “He caused the fumble,” linebacker Sam Williams said. “That was unbelievable.”
3. Louis Murphy’s 11-yard touchdown catch with nine seconds left at Pittsburgh.
4. JaMarcus Russell’s 10-yard touchdown pass to Chaz Schilens with 35 seconds remaining to beat the Broncos at Denver, “They’re all special, but this one’s pretty high,” said Russell.
5. Janikowski nailing a 61-yard field goal in cold Cleveland.

Worst Moments of the Season:

1. Darrius Heyward-Bey’s bobbled pass deep in Kansas City territory that fell into the hands of a Chiefs defender. That turnover sealed the victory for the visiting rivals as Oakland drove late in the contest.
2. Russell being pulled after going 6-for-11 for 61 yards with 2 interceptions and a lost fumble against the Jets.
3. Johnnie Lee Higgins and Louis Murphy bumping into each other as they came off the line of scrimmage, and taking themselves out of the play against the Chargers.
4. Russell entering the game against the Redskins after Gradkowski was injured and then getting sacked six of the eight times Washington tallied sacks. “We had heard that Russell’s just had a tough time, and you could tell when he stepped on the field and the crowd started booing,” Washington defensive end Andre Carter said.
5. All of the Tom Cable off the field distractions.
6. Hiram Eugene getting pushed aside by Willis McGahee during his 77-yard scamper in the season finale.

Unit that was lackluster:

Punt and Kickoff returns

Whether it was Gary Russell, Jonathan Holland, Justin Miller briefly or Louis Rankin, the return units were non-threats to opponents. Even Johnnie Lee Higgins, who made a name for himself as an explosive punt returner in 2008 was quiet in 2009.

Hey look, I’m a starter award:

Michael Huff, Safety

Turned himself into a reliable player in the secondary after years of the Raiders waiting on this first round talent to turn the corner.

Hey look, I should not be a starter:

Cornell Green, Right Tackle

The penalty machine was at it again this season. Green may be the best option for the Raiders at right tackle, which demonstrates the need for them to upgrade that side of the offensive line.

Best Off-season Move:

Greg Ellis, Defensive End

Tied with Trevor Scott for the team lead with sacks (7).

‘We are waiting…,’ Award:

Darren McFadden, Running Back – 104 car. 357 yards 1 TD, 21 rec. 245 yards

Is it the lack of creativity on this offense? Do the Raiders need a better mind running the offense? Are the quarterback issues impacting him? Regardless of the excuses, McFadden has not been the explosive talent they had hoped for and certainly not the multi-dimensional weapon he can potentially be. Plus, he had 4 fumbles this season (3 lost) while missing four games due to injury.

Best Quote(s):

• “I don’t think we could have beaten an Oakland high school team today,” said Richard Seymour after the 38-0 loss to the Jets. Ironically, he stated earlier that week that Oakland would make the playoffs.
• “If you really want to look at it, you can go 8-0 and you might end up 10-6,” stated Chris Johnson. “There’s a possible way you can actually do it.”

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

With Bruce Gradkowski limping around on two creaky knees, the Oakland Raiders decided to ink free-agent J.P Losman.

The former 22^nd overall pick in the 2004 draft by the Buffalo Bills was at the Raider facility today taking a physical. With Buffalo, Losman’s record was 10-23 while compiling 33 touchdowns, 34 interceptions, 6,211 passing yards and a rating of 75.6.

When his contract expired after the 2008 campaign, the Bills showed no interest in re-signing him and eventually he landed in the United Football League. Losman played for the Las Vegas Locomotives coached by Jim Fassel and they ultimately won the inaugural UFL championship game 20-17 versus the Florida Tuskers. He tallied 193 passing yards on 21-of-35 completions during that contest.

Fassel has been linked to vacancies in the past on the Raiders coaching staff and his son, John, is currently the special teams coordinator for the Silver & Black.

Losman is known to have a strong arm, but the elder Fassel worked with him closely while in the UFL to refine his abilities.

Oakland head coach Tom Cable yesterday stated that he would look at his options before deciding who starts this weekend versus the Denver Broncos. JaMarcus Russell entered the game against the Redskins at the beginning of the 2^nd half for the injured Gradkowski and the team only managed 39-yards of total net offense after tallying nearly 200 to start the game. Charlie Frye started in one game in 2008 – the last time he saw action in the league – going 12-of-23 for 83 yards with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions during a 27-17 loss against the Green Bay Packers.

The Raiders also waived Roy Schuening and signed tackle Elliot Vallejo to the practice squad.

ANALYSIS

How the mighty have fallen. Once a promising passer with massive potential is now fighting to start a game late in the season against the likes of Charlie Frye. Russell’s career is on the bust path. And at this point, you can make the argument that Frye and Losman are better equipped to handle a NFL playbook and be at the helm of a professional offense.

Losman will be insurance. But you have to wonder, with John [Fassel] on the team, [Jim] Fassel having a history with Losman and Cable possibly on the outs, could this be the opening Jim has looked for to get a job back in the NFL?

No one is saying that Al Davis will completely give up on his big investment. We all know how much Davis cherishes his selections and how he throws his weight around to make sure certain players stick around and/or play when he wants. Hiring Fassel and Davis then justifying the hiring as a way to get Russell’s career going could be something we may hear in the near future. Davis can cite then how Fassel has won games with Danny Kannell as his passer, how he resurrected Kerry Collins’ career and how he’s tutored John Elway and Phil Simms.

Losman was not brought in to be the team’s next future starter. But there are many links now going back to Jim Fassel, and Davis has always been fond of his former offensive assistant (1994).

Fassel wants to coach. He has admitted to wanting to work in the league and stated he was ‘disappointed’ when the Washington Redskins decided to go with Jim Zorn instead, also saying, “I will get another chance,” after the tough process.

“I’m just surprised,” Fassel commented. “I’m hurt by it. Life moves on.”

Chances are, if Cable does not finish strong as he did last season, and after the off the field ruckus surrounding him all year, Davis may make another move to try to salvage his number one overall pick and his ever plummeting organization.

Fassel has a 60-56-1 record (regular and post-season). His Giants won the NFC Championship game in 2000, and they also won two division titles during his stay in New York. Oakland isn’t a hot spot for coaching. And Oakland may be looking for one again this off-season…

Fassel will surely be one of the few coaches that would want the job and Davis may be one of the few people that could spin it that this job is just right for him.

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Nothing could have been more obvious. The balloon was deflated. The energy was sucked away. An offense that tallied nearly 200 yards in the first half was pitiful in the second half.

Why?

JaMarcus Russell entered the game for an injured Bruce Gradkowski and any chance of the Oakland Raiders notching back-to-back victories was flushed away.

Russell was sacked six times. Yes, the offensive line was dreadful, but the guy holding on to the ball had no pocket presence or awareness that defenders were flying at him. There was no way Russell could imitate Gradkowski under similar situations because the former number one overall pick just can’t play quarterback as well as the underdog.

Gradkowski could’ve extended plays and drifted away from some of those salivating Redskins’ defenders. He could’ve stepped up in the pocket a few times and tried to pick up yardage with his feet. Gradkowski could’ve kept the positive vibes the offense had going after their 4^th quarter barrage in Pittsburgh. Russell could not.

Russell’s presence anchored the team so much, that even his head coach was constrained. Hamstrung by Russell’s inability to absorb a complex NFL playbook, the Raiders regressed to their old ways and ran simple plays that made it easier for Washington to defend the football field.

Cable admittedly had to change the offenses’ approach because of the incapable passer. Gradkowski makes quicker decisions, scans the field better, elevates the performance of others and has jump-started an attack that was horrendous under Russell. Defenses had more to prepare for with Gradkowski at the helm because Oakland ran a non-threatening offense to cater to their soon to be bust.

“You could kind of see it emotionally a little bit, the wind left our sails, so to speak, just a little bit, when that happened,” defensive end Jay Richardson said when Gradkowski limped off the field.

That speaks volumes and gauges the exact feel of the team. Did they lose hope because their fighter at quarterback was not available? It certainly looked like it, and if a whole team is down so much on a guy like Russell – the player Oakland tabbed to be their savior when they took him in the draft and paid him a Brinks truckload – then this team must purge themselves of him at seasons end.

Gradkowski may not be able to play again this season.

“Right now, it’s to figure out where Bruce is at here in the next 24-48 hours and then make that decision.,” Cable stated today. But if ‘Bruce Almighty’ cannot use his legs effectively with a torn MCL and the other one partially torn, how good of an option can he be?

Well, you have Russell and Charlie Frye as your choices.

“I think certainly I’m going to look at what the options are and again as I told you before I’ll do what’s best for this team, what gives us the best chance to win,” stated Cable.

All of the sudden, it’s a matter of whether you play Russell or Frye with the coach trying to figure out what is the best solution for this team?

We are talking about Charlie Frye possibly starting over Russell!

At this point, its painfully obvious to even the most loyal Russell supporter that if the team is fighting over whether or not Frye plays over Russell, then you know the end is near for the former LSU product.

“It’s kind of different coming in, and not starting,” Russell stated to a reporter for Comcast SportsNet Bay Area. “Best thing to do is just let the game come to you, don’t force anything. Couldn’t get too much going. That’s basically it. Nothing else to be said just couldn’t get nothing going.”

He continued to elaborate on the sack onslaught yesterday by saying, “I don’t know, but I say everything is my fault, so I’ll put it on me, maybe. I could’ve stepped up a different way to protect those guys, but that’s what happened.”

Yes JaMarcus, that is what happened. And what didn’t happen was what you predicted a few days earlier, stating “A totally different JaMarcus,” was going to be on display after your demotion.

We saw the same dreadful play that will lead this team nowhere and that just continues to reinforce the bust label that you are quickly earning.

Justin Fargas stated, “Well I think we were building something there but we can’t let the momentum or fire be killed by that we have to find a way to keep it going.”

It can Justin, but not with Russell as your quarterback.

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

QUARTERBACK:

Bruce Gradkowski – A

The Oakland offense looked lively again with Gradkowski under center. The underdog passer displayed his elusiveness and ability to spark the play of others with his 10-of-18 for 153 yards and 3 rushes for 16-yards. But he couldn’t finish the game, leaving at halftime with a torn meniscus ligament in his left knee and a partially torn meniscus in his right knee. “See what the MRI says tomorrow but who knows?” Gradkowski said after the game. “I don’t count myself out. You never need surgery with MCLs. I’ll do whatever I can to get healthy fast, if I can.” Some highlights included a 3^rd and 10 hook up for 15-yards to Chaz Schilens – the key play on a drive they took a 10-7 lead – a 10-yard scramble on 3^rd and 10 before the half and a 6-yard pass to Justin Fargas, improvising and getting the football to his running back as he was being tackled.

JaMarcus Russell – F

The life was drained out of the offense once he came into the game. Oakland’s play calling was effected by his insertion, they were not able to move the yard sticks and the immobile passer was sitting duck for salivating Washington defenders. Russell was sacked six times partly due to the offensive line’s ineffectiveness, but also because of his lack of pocket awareness and lumbering movements. Unlike Gradkowski, Russell could not extend plays, make something happen with his legs or formulate quick decisions. Oakland regressed to their old selves with shorter routes to Zach Miller. On his interception, Russell delivered the ball late to an open target and LaRon Landry was able to break on the ball.

RUNNING BACKS & FULLBACKS: D

Darren McFadden had a great start to the game.  He had a 43-yard reception to open Oakland’s third drive and an acrobatic 26-yard reception on a slant and go, hauling in the pass as he fell to the turf. But McFadden had only one other catch the rest of the way for 15-yards and was pedestrian with his 8 carries for 21-yards on a sloppy field. Justin Fargas had 9 carries for 21 yards and the team’s only touchdown on a 1-yard run on 4^th and goal in the second quarter.  Gary Russell had 2 carries for -2 yards, but fared better as a receiver with 22-yards on 2 grabs. Both times Russell ran the ball, he was the lone set-back after Oakland motioned McFadden as a flanker.

WIDE RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS: D

Zach Miller again became Russell’s security blanket on short routes and at the end; he tallied 7 receptions for 46 yards.  Miller had a 21-yard reception negated by an Schilens pass interference penalty. On 1^st and 10 at the OAK 37, Gradkowski delivered a strike to Miller after he avoided the rush moving toward the line of scrimmage, but the tight end dropped the pass near the Redskins 30-yard line.  Johnnie Lee Higgins ended with 3 catches for 35 yards; his best receptions being a 16-yard out pattern on 1^st and 10 on the last drive before halftime and a 3^rd and 3 conversion on a 10-yard slant in which he took a major hit from cornerback Carlos Rogers. Chaz Schilens had 2 receptions for 20-yards and Louis Murphy finished with 1 grab for 8 yards. Murphy gave great effort on a 28-yard sinking Gradkowski toss that appeared to be a reception, but was overturned by a booth review.

OFFENSIVE LINE: F

Robert Gallery was missed. The line got no push at the line of scrimmage and was often manhandled which led to the putrid 65-yard effort on the ground. Washington compiled 8-sacks – yes many during Russell’s stint, when he was not able to feel the pressure and react accordingly – four by rookie Brian Orakpo and two by Andre Carter who now has 10-sacks in his last nine contests.  Cooper Carlisle got infracted for a false start in the 3^rd quarter on a 2^nd and 16 and a few plays later, Russell had to face an insurmountable 3^rd and 35 because Cornell Green was flagged for being illegally down the field as Oakland tried to set up a screen.  Green was penalized again in the 4^th quarter on a 3^rd and 5 for holding.

DEFENSIVE LINE: C

Tommy Kelly was physical at times, stuffing Quinton Ganther (14 car. 50 yards 2 TD) on short yardage situations. Gerard Warren hurt Jason Campbell (16-of-28 for 222 yards and 2 TD 0 INT) on a 3^rd and 6 when he tossed him to the turf and forced an incompletion to end a drive. Greg Ellis also got pressure along with Richard Seymour, but they both got penalized for offsides. Matt Shaughnessy recorded his third sack of the season and had a tackle for a loss. The Redskins rushed for 100 yards today, 61 of those coming in the second half.

LINEBACKERS: C-

Trevor Scott continued his solid play with a sack on the second play for the Redskins and keying run stuffs early in the contest. Kirk Morrison was out of position many times, trailing his assignment when in coverage; which helped tight end Fred Davis amass 50-yards receiving and 2 touchdowns.

SECONDARY: C-

Nnamdi Asomugha had a right forearm injury, but finished the game. Stanford Routt played in his place and was quickly greeted by Santana Moss. Campbell hooked up with his speedy receiver on a nice pitch-and-catch for 28-yards against Routt.  The 15-yard pass interference penalty against Routt that aided the drive in which the Redskins went up 24-13 was a bad call by the ref. Chris Johnson almost made a stellar interception in the 4^th quarter while trying to adjust to the flight of the ball against Moss. Tyvon Branch blew some coverages against Davis and was a victim in space, but again aided solid effort versus the run with his tackling. Mike Mitchell recorded his first NFL sack on a blitz on 3^rd and 10 that resulted in a 13-yard loss. Michael Huff left in the second quarter with a stinger.

SPECIAL TEAMS: B

Shane Lechler punted six times at a 49.5 average (68 long). Sebastian Janikowski nailed a 33-yarder to give Oakland a 3-0 lead in the first quarter and a 54-yarder in the 3^rd quarter to cut the Redskins lead to 17-13. His only miss was a 66-yard effort at the end of the first half. Higgins looked more elusive than what he has all season. The Redskins tackled well on punts, as a few times, it looked like Higgins could break a few returns for substantial gains. He ended with 47 yards on 4 punt returns. Russell sparked a Raider drive with a 41-yard kickoff return. The great field position by the Raiders was aided when Fred Davis was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct after a touchdown, which had the Redskins kick off on their own 15-yard line.  Eight plays later, the Raiders took the lead 10-7. Hiram Eugene had a better game on special teams than he did in the defensive backfield.

COACHING: D

Again, the Raiders failed to take advantage of a struggling opponent at home and notch a back-to-back victory. This troubling trend continued once Russell came into the game. The energy was sucked out of the offense and it appeared that the team lost any confidence it had when Gradkowski limped off the field. The play calling was simplified, the offense went back to their lackluster ways and the Redskins teed off on a passer that cannot handle a NFL playbook that is a stiff in the pocket and cannot inspire or elevate the play of others. Russell hamstrung Tom Cable’s offense and his play calling. But there is no excuses for a complete shut-down in the 2^nd half against a team that struggled recently in holding 4^th quarter leads and that entered this final quarter today with a lead for the 4^th straight contest. Oakland managed 39-yards of total net offense in the 2^nd half. At least the defense was on attack, keeping Campbell moving in the pocket and making life difficult for their targets. The Raiders had a couple of breakdowns on defense, especially when they brought the heat and had the linebackers and secondary in man-to-man, leaving Washington’s passer to scramble for some key yards. But for the most part, the effort was there and John Marshall called an aggressive game showing many fronts in trying to confuse Jim Zorn’s attack. John Fassel was flagged for a 15-yard penalty when he ran onto the field to argue with a judge.

GAME NOTES

• Russell ended 10-of-16 for 74-yards and 1 interception. He is public enemy number one in Oakland right now and he failed to live up to the comment he made just recently when he was asked what type of player he was going to be when he saw the field again; “A totally different JaMarcus – people are going to have their opinion, and I really don’t pay too much attention to that.” Today, the same JaMarcus was on exhibit.
• Tony Stewart recovered a muffed punt fumble by Antwaan Randle El in the 4^th quarter.
• Inactive players for the game included: Darrius Heyward-Bey, Khalif Barnes, Javon Walker, Nick Miller, William Joseph and Roy Scheuning. Scheuning was promoted to the 53-man roster when Robert Gallery was placed on the injured list.
• The Raiders had more penalty yards (108) than rushing yards (65).