Stanford Routt will be a starting CB for the Raiders

The status of Oakland Raiders running back Michael Bush is up in the air right now. Whether or not he plays against the Tennessee Titans is a mystery at this point, but one thing’s for sure, the Silver & Black may not declare his ability to play completely until game time.

“He did some individual work, caught the ball, ran some routs, carried it a little bit,” Cable said after practice on Monday. “Limited.”

Stanford Routt will start at left cornerback after beating out the incumbent Chris Johnson in the summer. His mindset is right and the athletic defensive back appears ready to take on a new challenge in his career: “I think my mind is maybe a little more clear, not so much BS going on mentally,” Routt said. “But I really can’t put a finger on what you’re asking. Everything stayed the same. I’m still the same guy. I still study the same. I eat the same foods. I’m the same.”

The Raiders will take Tuesday off before returning to work on Wednesday, when coaches implement the game plan for the Titans.

Wide receiver Chaz Schilens and linebacker Travis Goethel were not on the practice field on Monday and will probably be locks to be on the inactive list come Sunday.

Follow me on Twitter, click here.

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

It was a good showing for rookie defensive end Lamarr Houston. He started and played the entire first half and tallied two-sacks. He acknowledged during the game’s telecast that the solid coverage down the field helped him get to Tony Romo. His horrible haircut, at the hands of John Henderson, was also on display when he spoke to sideline reporter, George Atkinson.

Jon Condo got down the field on punts smoothly and made two solid tackles. Hiram Eugene assisted on Oakland’s first punt coverage attempt in the first quarter.

Nnamdi Asomugha stared down Romo and nearly picked off his pass attempt to Roy Williams on 2^nd and 5 on Dallas’ first drive. Stanford Routt played well in run support and was in coverage on a 3^rd and 7 that forced Dallas to punt.

Chris Johnson was beat for 24-yards by Miles Austin on 3^rd and 12 in the first quarter. The Cowboys breakout wide receiver last season made an athletic play to haul in the Romo pass. Austin again beat Johnson on a slant for 9 yards on a 3^rd and 6.

Michael Huff stuffed a screen to Marion Barber on 2^nd and 19 early in the contest. Later, he tallied a tackle bouncing Austin out of bounds on an end around that Mike Mitchell dissected perfectly.

Trevor Scott’s sack and forced fumble on 3^rd and 18 forced a long field goal attempt in the first quarter.

Langston Walker had a crucial flag that turned a 3^rd and 4 into a 3^rd and 9. The OL started with Walker at RT, Cooper Carlisle at RG, Samson Satele at C, Robert Gallery at LG and Marion Henderson at LT. The second unit struggled with Kyle Boller under center. Khalif Barnes was infracted for a false start to start Boller’s night and on the ensuing play, second year tight end Brandon Myers was flagged as well for the same penalty. Chris Morris was even called for holding, but Dallas declined it.

Jason Campbell chucked up a few long tosses to Louis Murphy. His best pass was a 3^rd and 3 completion for 7-yards to tight end Zach Miller. The former Redskin was getting hit as he released the football, still getting good velocity on the accurate pass towards the sideline. On that drive at the end of the first quarter, Campbell was sacked when Samson Satele was bulldozed on 2^nd and 10.  On a 2^nd and 5, Campbell got appeared in rhythm when he hit Todd Watkins on a quick slant for 10-yards – changing the pace of the stagnant Raiders’ offense as he noticed the CB was playing off his target.

Matt Shaughnessy continues his solid development with a two sack performance. On back-to-back plays in the 2^nd quarter, he almost recorded a safety with his powerful penetration into the Dallas backfield.

Tom Cable went for it on 4^th and 1 in the 2^nd quarter. The play: Campbell taking the snap from a shotgun formation, but flailing his toss incomplete. On 4^th and 1 in the 4^th quarter, Boller sneaked for a first down behind Veldheer.

Dallas also took a shot on a 4^th and 1, but Ricky Brown stuffed the screen play on a solid Raider defensive stand.

Rookie Jared Veldheer sprung Rock Cartwright for 16-yards with a solid block. He played at center in the 4^th quarter.

Michael Bennett showed his swiftness through the line of scrimmage and play making ability as a receiver out of the backfield. Rock Cartwright did a little bit of everything throughout the night. With Darren McFadden not playing, Oakland displayed their depth at running back. Bennett’s 68-yards on 12 carries and 33-yard reception were crucial in the win.

Shane Lechler was in All-Pro form with a 62-yard punt.

Shaun Bodiford muffed a punt that Dallas recovered at Oakland’s 11-yard line.

Kyle Boller’s lofted an out pass to Yamon Figurs for 18-yards in the 4^th quarter. The toss just got over the defenders fingertips and Figurs did a fine job staying in bounds. The WR/specialist followed that up with a 7-yard catch on 2^nd and 5.

Nick Miller appeared to grab a touchdown on a fade pattern near the back pylon late in the contest. The back judge called it a score initially, but the referee announced that the play was incomplete. Oakland challenged and won.

Oakland was fortunate when Leon Williams dropped a deflected pass up in the air that could’ve ended their late scoring drive. Raiders rookie Stevie Brown could’ve had a game closing interception with under 90 seconds left.

Jerome Boyd ended all hope for the Cowboys with a 50-yard interception return for a score. The deflection was bounced right into the safety’s arms.

Follow me on Twitter, click here.

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

CHRIS JOHNSON

• CORNERBACK
• No: 37
• Height: 6-1
• Weight: 200
• Birth date: 09/25/1979
• College: LOUISVILLE
• Acquired: Signed as a free agent on March 19, 2007

In February of 2009, the Oakland Raiders re-signed cornerback Chris Johnson to a four-year deal worth $11.3 million. Johnson cashed in on his three interceptions, 12 passes defended and forced fumble after replacing the dumped DeAngelo Hall midway through the 2008 season. His man-to-man prowess, the typical style Oakland has preferred through the years, was something Hall never adjusted to, and surely an approach that Raider owner Al Davis likes seeing on the field.

The former seventh round pick of the Green Bay Packers was actually one of the better defenders as that campaign wound down and his loyalty to the Raiders was a deciding factor on why he would remain in Silver & Black.

“It was the best opportunity for him,” agent Anthony Brown said. “His loyalty was to Mr. Davis for all the wonderful things he’s done for him.”

Johnson has the tough task of being the opponent’s main target in the secondary with Nnamdi Asomugha playing on the other side of the field. In 2009, he posted a career high 59-tackles, 18 passes defended and 3 interceptions.

He also provided one of the better quotes of the year when he stated, “If you really want to look at it, you can go 8-0 and you might end up 10-6. There’s a possible way you can actually do it.”

Chris Johnson hopes to celebrate more with Pendergast on staff

The Oakland Raiders have added Clancy Pendergast to the coaching staff.

The former defensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs (2009) and the Arizona Cardinals (2004-2008) has not been designated a specific role as of yet.

With the Cardinals, he helped develop draft picks such as Karlos Dansby and Darnell Dockett, but his defenses were inconsistent and allowed more points per game every year since his arrival.

The Cardinals yards allowed per game rank by season:

2004 – 321.3 (12^th)

2005 – 295.6 (8^th)

2006 – 349.4 (29^th)

2007 – 330.2 (17^th)

2008 – 331.5 (19^th)

Their points per game allowed rankings during Pendergast’s stay:

2004 – 20.1 (12^th)

2005 – 24.4 (26^th)

2006 – 24.3 (29^th)

2007 – 24.9 (27^th)

2008 – 26.6 (28^th)

“Like every decision, it comes down to what’s best for the team and what gives us the best chance to win,” Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt said upon Pendergast’s ouster.

He is known to be a proponent of using a variety of blitzes and coverages, especially if the team possesses speedy players on defense.

Rookie Louis Murphy was one of the few bright spots on offense in 2009

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

Stanford Routt seen here sacking Carson Palmer, was fined by the NFL this week

Three Oakland Raiders were fined by the NFL for their actions last Sunday against the Cleveland Browns.

Tight end Tony Stewart got hit the hardest; penalized $25,000 for “making intentional physical contact with a game official.” Stewart claimed that linebacker Alex Hall punched him on a kickoff return and he was pleading his case to the officials after the play.

“I’d give them one percent chance that they couldn’t have seen the play, seen that happen. I was saying to the refs, ‘You didn’t see that? You didn’t see him punch me in the face? You’re not going to throw a flag?’ And the ref came up to me and put his hand on my chest and started pushing me,” Stewart said. “I just swiped his hand off my chest. Just a natural reaction.”

Richard Seymour, who was recently selected as a Pro Bowl alternate, was fined $10,000. He got flagged for a personal foul and unsportsmanlike conduct against the Browns.

In total, Oakland was penalized 13 times for 126 yards last weekend. The game became volatile with scuffles and referees appeared to take control of the game by tossing flags around.

“That’s how I felt. I’ve never seen flags thrown like that,” Seymour said. “Obviously we have to understand how the game is being played and how the game is being called and play accordingly. We didn’t do a good job of that after we understood that they were going to throw it if you looked the wrong way.”

Stewart was ejected from that contest, along with cornerback Stanford Routt who was also docked $5,000 this week. He was booted off the field due to a head-butting an opponent.

“They said I head-butted him. That was it,” Routt said Thursday. “That happened four days ago. That might as well have happened four years ago, in my opinion. Know what I mean? What’s done is done.”

SECONDARY AILING

Cornerback Chris Johnson has been slowed this week in practice with a strained hamstring and starting strong safety Tyvon Branch in hindered by a ailing hip flexor.

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

Bruce Gradkowski takes over for the beleaguered JaMarcus Russell. Oakland made the move this week after Tom Cable stated that the team needed to go in a different direction, which he felt could give the team a better chance to win. But don’t expect Oakland to alter their play calling much per the new passer under center.

“There might be a couple tweaks here and there, but we’re just going to run the offense, do what we do and try to make some plays,” Gradkowski said yesterday. “We have a lot of weapons. We just have to stay on course, keep doing what we’re doing, keep working hard and things will fall into place.”

One of those weapons, receiver Chaz Schilens, had 3-catches for 27-yards in his 2009 debut against the Chiefs. Darren McFadden came back from his injury last weekend and the Raiders implemented their version of the ‘Wildcat’ – named the Wildhog – on back-to-back plays on Sunday.

What to Expect:

The Raiders ran for 182 yards last week. And that support on the ground is what Cable would like for Gradkowski. If the Raiders can have success with their trio at running back, their new quarterback will be able to use his legs in play action, bootleg and add a different dimension to the Oakland offense. Cable has stated that they’ll run the same plays that Russell had to his disposal. But will Gradkowski’s confidence and decisiveness in the pocket increase the offenses’ output? We’ll see on Sunday…

On Defense:

Matt Shaughnessy started last week in place of Greg Ellis at defensive end and shined with one-sack and solid play versus the run. Cable stated this week, “Played outstanding he has, I have said this before, but every week he just gets better and better and better. Defended the run extremely well, one sack and a couple other hurries, the guy just gets better he is coached really well. His coached has raised his level and he comes
 to work every day and he is learning from Richard [Seymour] and Greg [Ellis] those guys have been good in terms of teaching him and he is a good football player.”

The Bengals 11^th ranked rushing attack could have a familiar face on Sunday. With leading rusher Cedric Benson (205 car. 859 yds. 6 TD) likely out with a hip injury, former Chief Larry Johnson could see his first action as a member of the Bengals.

What to Expect:

Whether its Johnson or Bernard Scott, the Raiders will have to key on the rush attack. Carson Palmer is in his prime, and with targets like Chad Ochocinco, Andre Caldwell, Laveranues Coles and Brian Leonard, the linebackers and defensive backfield could be kept very busy. Oakland’s 23^rd ranked defense will have its surprising moments on Sunday. Palmer is not very elusive, but he makes quick decisions. He’s only been sacked 14 times in 2009, but if the Raiders can apply pressure with their defensive front, they’ll be able to stay close and not allow Palmer to pick them apart.

CINCINNATI BENGALS

Asomugha breaking up a pass intended for Ochocinco

On Offense:

During Ochocinco’s conference call earlier in the week, the boisterous target hyped his visit to Oakland stating, “Oh, man, I’m just coming to give the Black Hole the best show they’ve ever seen. I’m not sure if they’ve really had much to look forward to this year but, man, we’re coming to town. It will for damned sure be a circus.”

As for his match-up against Nnamdi Asomugha, one the elite cornerbacks in the league:

Everyone says he’s the best defensive back in the NFL, so I just go along and I agree with everybody else and then I will permit to go out there Sunday and have my fun, like I usually do every week. So, it’s no different. He’s an awesome, awesome defensive back. I watch him on film. I’ve dissected every single technique that he does. Every single one. So, he’s really awesome and he’s one of the few cornerbacks, where any defensive coordinator, I don’t care what team he played on, he makes a defense that much easier when you can leave somebody like that on an island by yourself and you can actually lock down one side.

What to Expect:

The Bengals will try to exploit the Raiders 29^th ranked rush defense (155.6 yds. allowed). And if they can run it consistently, keeping the rest of the defense un-balanced will not be difficult, especially with Chris Johnson’s struggles allowing big plays playing opposite Asomugha.

On Defense:

This side of the ball has been the biggest reason why the Bengals are challenging for a top spot in the AFC playoffs. They are allowing a measly 83.4 yards per game on the ground (2^nd in the NFL). And last week, they stifled the Steelers with four-sacks and 10-passes defended, while clamping down on 10-straight 3^rd down stops to end the game.

Palmer had lofty comments last weekend about the defense, stating, “The way our defense played and just teed off on [Pittsburgh] all day and dominated the line of scrimmage and dominated the backfield, dominated downfield in coverage. It was a team win, but you can’t say enough about our defense. They’re playing like they are the best defense in the league and they believe that.”

What to Expect:

Linebackers Dhani Jones, Keith Rivers and rookie Rey Maualuga will spearhead a unit that will be primed to stop the three-headed monster at running for the Raiders. The key though will be whether or not the front of Robert Geathers, Domata Peko, Tank Johnson and Jonathan Fanene can pressure Gradkowski into mistakes.

GAME NOTES

• Michael Bush leads the Raiders in rushing with 77 carries for 350 yards. Last week, his 60-yard run set-up Oakland’s first score on the game’s opening drive.
• Gradkowski is making his 13^th career start.
• When asked about Russell, Ochocinco commented, “Man JaMarcus is extremely good. You have to remember a quarterback can only be as good as his supporting cast. Case closed. Always. It will always be that way. Always. You put a Tom Brady or a Peyton Manning, you take them out of their supporting casts, you take them out of the elements they’re in now, and you put them in JaMarcus’ situation do you think it would be that much better. I’m just asking. Realistically.”

KEY MATCH-UPS

Which CB tandem prevails? Asomugha/Johnson vs. Hall/Joseph

Leon Hall and Jonathan Joseph have played well enough to gain consideration as one of the best tandems in the league. Oakland thinks their man-to-man covering tandem is just as good. With Palmer at the helm and facing a team that allows big yards on the ground; the Bengals will be able to mix the run and pass enough to get big chunks with their aerial attack.

The Gradkowski Effect

Can his mobility and decisiveness add another dimension to the Raider offense? Will his accuracy change the complexity of the passing attack? If the answer on Sunday is yes to both, we wont see Russell for the rest of the season.

PREDICTION

Bengals 27 – Raiders 22

TV & RADIO

The game will be televised on CBS with Kevin Harlan providing play-by-play and former NFL player Solomon Wilcots handling color analysis. If sold out per NFL blackout rules, the game will air in the Bay Area on KPIX Channel 5 and in Sacramento on KOVR Channel 13. The game will air on Raiders Radio originating on KSFO 560 AM, the Silver and Black’s 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 KSFO’s Rich Walcoff. (Broadcast information cited from the Official Oakland Raiders web site)

GAME INFO

Sunday, November 22, 2009, 1:15 p.m. PT | Oakland Alameda County Coliseum, CA

Road Team: Cincinnati Bengals (7-2) Home: 3-2 Road: 4-0

Home Team: Oakland Raiders (2-7) Home: 1-4 Road: 1-3

Point spread: Bengals favored -9.5

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

Is Chaz Schilens finally seeing football action on Sunday? We’ll have to wait and see, but so far, all indications point to the 24-year old making his debut in 2009. “It’s feeling better, It’s not worse,” stated the wide out who has been inactive since breaking a bone in his foot back in the summer.

“I don’t know if it will be for right now, but I kind of just go to go and do what I can,” he continued when asked if his injury is completely healed.

Darren McFadden is set to return to the running back rotation. He has practiced with the team this week. And on Sunday, McFadden will face an opponent he has racked up 212 rushing yards, 79 yards receiving and 2 scores against in three career games.

What to Expect:

Kansas City is allowing 136.3 rushing yards per game. Oakland must run the football to have any success in this game. Getting McFadden back will help the diversity of this offense, but pounding the football with Justin Fargas will help them move the chains. If Schilens does play, expect Oakland to go with more three-receiver formations. The health of many of these players should help Tom Cable’s lackluster play calling.

On Defense:

Struggling cornerback Chris Johnson is highly optimistic regarding Oakland’s second half. “If you really want to look at it, you can go 8-0 and you might end up 10-6,” Johnson said yesterday. “There’s a possible way you can actually do it.”

The Raider cornerback may be kept busy this week with Matt Cassel coming off a 23-for-39 performance, with 262 yards, 2 touchdowns and no interceptions. Johnson has the bull’s eye on his jersey being the second part of the tandem with Nnamdi Asomugha.

What to Expect:

The Chiefs offensive line has allowed 30 sacks this season (31^st in the NFL). Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly and the rest of the front-seven has to be on attack mode. John Marshall’s unit had a field day against the Eagles by blitzing and confusing the Philadelphia offensive line. Greg Ellis will continue his recovery from knee and shoulder surgery, so Trevor Scott and rookie Matt Shaughnessy should get ample opportunities to stake their claim to more reps along the defensive line.

Thomas Howard & the rest of the Oakland defense will look to celebrate more in the 2nd half

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

On Offense:

The Chiefs parted ways with Larry Johnson, but now must find a replacement for one of the weakest ground attacks in the league.

Kansas City is averaging a pedestrian 96.1 yards per game and are the only team in the league not to tally a rushing score so far in 2009. Jamaal Charles and Kolby Smith are two options. But neither was impressive against Jacksonville last week.

In his first career start, Smith ran for 150 yards on 31 carries with 2 touchdowns against the Silver & Black on November 25, 2007.

What to Expect:

The Raider rush defense is allowing 161 yards per game. Just what the doctor ordered for the Chiefs. It won’t be easy after the lost of Mike Goff (RG), but Oakland struggles against teams that commit to run the football against them and Smith’s shiftiness could be effective versus a Raider team that can be undisciplined and can get sloppy in their tackling.

On Defense:

Kansas City corralled the Raiders ground game in their first match-up, allowing a measly 67-yards. They would sign up for similar results right now, especially if they could place the game in the hands of JaMarcus Russell.

Their 30^th ranked defense has many holes. But can scheme overcome many of their deficiencies and force Russell into miscues?

The front-seven tallied one sack last week, so more pressure will be needed. Tamba Hali has only three-sacks in 2009, and no other defender on this roster has more than one-sack.

What to Expect:

Starting cornerbacks Brandon Flowers and Brandon Carr cannot let the Raiders’ young targets gain confidence early in this game. They must play physical at the line of scrimmage and harass them all afternoon. Russell’s accuracy has been off all year. So the Chief secondary has to be ready to pounce on his mistakes and keep Oakland’s wide receivers from getting any touches.

GAME NOTES

• This will be the 99^th meeting between both teams. The Chiefs hold a 51-45-2 advantage in the regular season. Oakland has been victorious in three of the last four meetings.
• WR Nick Miller and LB Ricky Brown were inactive during practice on Wednesday.
• Chris Chambers, who faced the Raiders a few weeks ago as a member of the San Diego Chargers is now a Chief. Chambers recorded 3 receptions for 70 yards and 2 scores last week in his debut in Kansas City, this after Tom Cable stated he had no interest in the target due to the talent he possessed on the roster.

KEY MATCH-UPS

Chambers & Dwayne Bowe vs. Asomugha & Johnson

Cassel will look to have another solid game against Oakland and a consecutive week with productive numbers. Now that he has a second target teams have to focus on, it will open up the passing game for the Chiefs.

Which Run D breaks down?

Both teams can allow big chunks on the ground. McFadden’s memorable moments have been against the Chiefs and KC would love to get something going on the ground as to relive the pressure off Cassel’s shoulders.

PREDICTION

Raiders 19 – Chiefs 16

TV & RADIO

The game will be televised on CBS with Gus Johnson providing play-by-play and former NFL player Steve Tasker handling color analysis. If sold out per NFL blackout rules, the game will air in the Bay Area on KPIX Channel 5. The game will also air in Sacramento on KOVR Channel 13. The game will air on Raiders Radio originating on KSFO 560 AM, the Silver and Black’s 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 KSFO’s Rich Walcoff. (Broadcast information cited from the official Raiders web site)

GAME INFO

Sunday, November 15, 2009, 1:05 p.m. PT | Oakland Alameda County Coliseum, CA

Road Team: Kansas City Chiefs (1-7) Home: 0-4 Road: 1-3

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

Point Spread: Raiders -2 (favored)

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

MVP (Offense)

Zach Miller, TE

28 receptions 421 yards 15.0 avg. 1 TD

It’s quite impressive to put up those numbers on a team ranked near the bottom of every offensive team category like the Raiders are. Plus, he’s their only legitimate threat on offense, yet he still gets open and produces at an adequate level. Imagine if he was on a well-rounded offense, with complementary talent around him and an accurate passer? His blocking is top notch, Miller’s effort is never in question and he is legitimately one of the better tight ends in the conference.

Honorable Mention: Robert Gallery, LG

Since he broke a bone in his right leg Sept. 20 against the Kansas City, the offensive line has not been the same. He is Oakland’s best lineman.

Least Valuable Player LVP (Offense)

Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR

5 receptions 74 yards 14.8 avg. 0 TD

The seventh overall pick in the 2009 draft has been non-existent. Oakland took him in hopes of pairing his blazing speed with JaMarcus Russell’s huge arm. Instead, they have a un-polished receiver who gets mugged at the line of scrimmage, does not run clean routes and cannot get open; one of the main reasons to why this offense has struggled. Until he can get open on shorter routes and become a skilled route runner, no one will fear his track star velocity.

Honorable Mention: Javon Walker, WR

Walker has said he is ready to play several times this season. Oakland has consistently placed him on their inactive list. He’s banked a lot of money since signing with the team in 2008. At this point, we are all just waiting for the season to end so we can see the two part ways.

MVP (Defense)

Nnamdi Asomugha, CB

Pro-Bowl bound once again…

Honorable Mention: Richard Seymour, DL: 28 tackles 4 sacks 1 FF

His arrival changed the dynamics of the front-four. Yes they have struggled versus the run, but Seymour’s ability to apply pressure has made this defensive line a tough one to defend.

LVP (Defense)

Chris Johnson, CB

When you play opposite Asomugha, opponents will test you. But he’s been torched way too often and has played inconsistent football, not worthy of the $4 million signing bonus and $3.825 million per season average salary he got from Oakland after a brief stint as a starter last season.

MVP (Special Teams)

Shane Lechler, P

Lechler’s 44.0 net punting average is way above his NFL record for a season (41.2). His 52.3 average is currently higher than the league record for a year set in 1940 by Sammy Baugh (51.4).

Pleasant Surprise

Michael Huff, S 27 tackles 9 PD 3 INT

Took over the starting job a few weeks into the season with his solid play defending the pass. Early in the campaign, Huff looked like the playmaking safety the Raiders thought they were getting coming out of Texas.

The ‘I am Mr. Perfect’ Award goes to…

Sebastian Janikowski, K

The hefty kicker is a perfect 12-for-12 so far in 2009, including 7-out of-7 from 40-to-50+ yards out.

Biggest Disappointment(s)…

JaMarcus Russell, QB 48.4 completion% 38.3  QB rating 2 TD 9 INT

He looks overwhelmed, has been inaccurate, with no sense of leadership and a feeling from the fan-base that he may not be able to carry this moribund franchise.

Darren McFadden, RB 47 carries 146 yards 1 TD 2 lost Fumbles

The speedy running back missed four contests and has not been the dynamic presence Oakland wanted when they used the 4^th overall pick on him in the 2008 draft.

Best Rookie

Louis Murphy, WR 16 rec. 232 yards 1 TD

Wildly inconsistent from play-to-play, but he plays with fire and looks to be a keeper.

Rookie to look out for the rest of the season…

Matt Shaughnessy, DL

Has played well in spurts and recorded a sack versus the Chargers.

Best Moments…

1. Zach Miller’s 86-yard touchdown catch and run, aided by two stellar blocks by rookie Louis Murphy, during the Raiders 13-9 victory against the Eagles.
2. Murphy’s 57-yard reception on 4^th and 14 late in the 4^th quarter to give Oakland a 20-17 lead versus the Chargers in week-one.
3. Todd Watkins’ 28-yard reception on 3^rd and 15, late in the 4^th quarter to extend a Raiders’ drive. Two plays later, McFadden scored to give Oakland a 13-10 victory in Kansas City.

Worst Moments…

1. The 38-0 shellacking in front of the home crowd versus the New York Jets, a week after beating the Eagles.
2. 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.
3. Russell being pulled after going 6-for-11 for 61 yards with 2 interceptions and a lost fumble against the Jets.

We should see more…

Mike Mitchell, SS

Hiram Eugene should not see the field, and Mitchell should share more time with Huff and Tyvon Branch as the season winds down. It’s time to see what the rookie can do in extended action.

Justin Fargas, RB

Fargas runs harder and has more determination than any of the other Raider rushers. McFadden’s explosiveness is needed when he is healthy, so that means less of Michael Bush.

Chaz Schilens, WR

Ok, so how much longer do we have to hear that is almost ready to play? Once he is active, Schilens and Murphy should be the starters. Heyward-Bey’s role needs to be simplified and his reps should be shrinking.

Blackouts

Fans are not filling those seats and why should they with the product Oakland has put out since 2003?

Father Time is creeping on…

Greg Ellis, DE

Since his knee started acting up, the defensive end’s production has slowed down. The bye was needed, but will it rejuvenate him?

We miss you…

Johnnie Lee Higgins, PR

The return units have been abysmal. And Higgins has not been the game breaking player he was in 2008.

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist