Silver and Black Report

Oakland Raiders quarterback Bruce Gradkowski was antsy to get on the field and stake his claim to the back-up role behind Jason Campbell. Last night against the San Francisco 49ers, Gradkowski convinced new offensive coordinator Hue Jackson and solidified what the head coach already knew – that the depth chart at quarterback is a strength.

“Bruce Gradkowski was one of the bright spots in terms of going in there and having some efficiency and move the club around fairly well,’’ Tom Cable commented. “I think that’s what you want from your backup quarterback and he showed himself very well that way.’’

“I haven’t been out there so it was good to get the feel of the first team,’’ Gradkowski said. “It was good to play almost three quarters. It was really good to get back out there and get a feel.’’

Gradkowski ended 14-of-22 for 202 yards and two scores. We also saw the continued chemistry between Louis Murphy and the passer when they both hooked up for a 74-yard scoring strike in the second quarter.

As for Jason Campbell, the expected starter got Oakland out of the gate quickly with four completions on their 81-yard scoring drive. After the sack by 49ers defender Travis LaBoy, an organization and fan-base held their collective breath seeing Campbell on the turf and seated on the passenger seat of a cart.

“It felt a lot worse at the time that it happened, but … they don’t think it’s going to be really, really serious,” Campbell said. “But at the same time it’s something we’ve got to take care of before the season starts.”

Campbell suffered a stinger, but Cable stated he expects to have his starter under center week-one versus the Titans.

Running back Michael Bush sustained a fractured left thumb and audio of his post-game chat can be found here on SBReport.net.

Jared Veldheer started for the injured Samson Satele. “I think you have to look at the film for that. I can remember one, there was a run through by a linebacker, (Patrick) Willis, one time that was on him but overall I think he directed the protections well,’’ Cable said of his center. “He really didn’t show up as the game went on so that’s a good sign. But we’ll have to look at the film.”

Neither Johnnie Lee Higgins nor Yamon Figurs distinguished themselves on special teams. But Figurs tallied two more catches for 18-yards while the inconsistent Higgins was shut-out on offense.

For the first time this pre-season, the Raiders did not record a sack. Rookie Rolando McClain led the team with 8 total tackles.

Both specialists are in pro-bowl mode; Sebastian Janikowski booted a 57-yard field goal and Shane Lechler bombed a 61yard punt, averaging 53.0 yards on his 4 attempts.

Darren McFadden played and was ineffective on the ground with 9-yards on 7-carries. He managed two receptions for 16-yards.

Defensive tackle Desmond Bryant had an elbow injury.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Oakland Raiders offensive coordinator Hue Jackson finally talked to the media yesterday and divulged his thoughts on varying topics surrounding the club. Here are some highlights:

What do you look for in a quarterback?

Hue Jackson: His ability to lead men. I think it’s very important that the quarterback is able to take players and get those guys around him to follow him, to understand exactly what the message is that’s being sent, not just on the field but also off the field. And I think we’ve got four very capable guys, and they’re working at it each and every day, and I feel good about direction that we’re going in.

Who is backing up Jason Campbell?

Hue Jackson: Who’s our number 2 quarterback? Well that’s yet to be determined. Obviously Jason is our starter at this point in time. Obviously Bruce is going to play I this game. Kyle has done a wonderful job. We’re just kind of going to let this thing sort itself out over the next couple of weeks.

On the backfield carries; Michael Bush and Darren McFadden:

Hue Jackson: Well I don’t know. Darren hasn’t played yet. Obviously he’ll get an opportunity in this game and then we’ll kind of see where it goes from there. I’m excited about getting a lot of our pieces out on the football field and watching them play. I have not seen Darren play in a game. That’s going to be exciting. I haven’t seen Bruce perform in a game. That will be exciting for me as a coach finally seeing the other pieces we have to have an opportunity to go out and compete in a game-type environment.

On Darrius Heyward-Bey:

Hue Jackson: I think the sky’s the limit for the young man. I just think he needs to go play and I think he will this week. Obviously we’ve been in one game with him, he didn’t play very much the first game, didn’t make it to last week’s game. I’m looking forward to watching him play. Again, that’s what I’m saying. I’m excited about watching a lot of our pieces finally come out and play together for an extended period of time and see where we are.

Working with Tom Cable cohesively:

Hue Jackson: There’s no question. Tom’s one of those old throwback coaches. He likes to get down in the dirt and get after it, and so do I. We kind of do it with a little flair. There’s a flair to what we do. I think our players enjoy it. I think you guys have talked to our players. I think they like the direction we’re heading. That’s the biggest thing. There’s a confidence about this football team. It permeates everywhere. It’s not just our team. It’s in the equipment, it’s in the weight room, it’s with our media people. It’s everywhere. This is a different time in Raider football, and I’m excited about it, and we all are.

What does the team lack?

Hue Jackson: I think the biggest thing for our football team right now is just game experience with me and them, just us spending time together and them understanding exactly what I’m looking for and how I want it done. And I think our guys are doing that. I really believe that. I’m not just saying it. Our players to a man, it’s been very fun for me. Sometimes you can go places and people put up a stop sign until they get to know you. Our guys have really embraced my attitude and the things that I’m looking for because the bottom line is we want to win, and we expect to win here. And that’s the difference. There is an expectation here. The Raiders are supposed to win. And that is our expectation and that’s what we are going to do.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Raiders head coach Tom Cable addresses the media following today’s practice session. Cable touches on the status of the key players, injuries, and who’s been getting noticed in camp thus far.

Rock Cartwright taking a handoff from Jason Campbell

Oakland Raiders rookie middle linebacker missed practice yesterday to attend a personal family matter. Head coach Tom Cable stated, “He has a personal issue that he has been excused to handle. He’ll be back quick.’’

As for his performance versus the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday: “I think he did fine,’’ Cable said. “He ran the defense like you want him to. He ran to the ball, was in on a number of plays, so I think you could say it was a success, first time out.’’

It appears that Charlie Frye’s recovery has been slower than expected. The quarterback will see a specialist this week to get further news on his ailing right hand. While he’s out, Kyle Boller could snatch that third spot in the depth chart. Boller had mop up duty after Jason Campbell versus the Cowboys, and even though Cable enjoys having the coach-like Frye on the roster, if he can’t shake off his injured hand, Oakland has to go with the more healthy alternative.

Oakland will be very cautious with Darren McFadden the rest of the summer. They want the versatile talent to be a focus in Hue Jackson’s offense with his pass catching and ball carrying skills. Michael Bush will get the bulk of the load, but McFadden provides a vital threat in different formations that opponents have to key on. Cable said, “there’s no injury or anything. We just don’t want to mess with it.’’ In the mean time, Michael Bennett and Rock Cartwright will be able to get reps that will be important in deciding what the rushing unit will look like as they approach week-one. “It’s a good battle,” Cable said. “They’re going neck-and-neck. They both have a little different style. Rock’s maybe a little more physical and Michael may be a little quicker.”

“Walter McFadden is definitely not anything serious at all,” Cable stated on Friday. “In fact, he may be ready to go to work (Saturday).” The rookie DB suffered a minor shoulder injury last week against the Cowboys.

The Silver & Black will practice today at 3:30, with two sessions slated for Monday: 8:30 am and 4:20 pm.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Here’s a look at the Oakland Raiders working during the summer at their training camp facility:

Chane Moline (#40) and Alex Daniels (#71) working together…

Rookie linebacker Rolando McClain (#55)

Linebacker Quentin Groves (#52) blowing past Darren McFadden (#20)

Rock Cartwright (#25) getting ready to take on Ricky Brown (#57)

Rookies Travis Goethel (#48) and Jared Veldheer (#68), victims of veteran hazing.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

John Henderson & Oakland have their eyes on Dallas

The pre season finally kicks off for the Oakland Raiders (0-0) when they travel to Arlington to face the Dallas Cowboys (1-0). Dallas notched their first win in 2010 with a 16-7 tally against the Cincinnati Bengals in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton. Oakland will look at new beginnings with Jason Campbell and a slew of young defensive standouts.

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

Jason Campbell got the highest praises within the organization this week when owner Al Davis likened him to former Raider Jim Plunkett. “I see this young Jason Campbell as a football player like I saw Jim Plunkett,” Davis said during an interview with Sirius NFL Radio. “He has everything. He was 13-0 in college at Auburn. He can throw up the field. He can run. He’s big. He’s smart.”

He continued: “I really predict great things for” Campbell, Davis said in the radio interview. “I hope he doesn’t let me down. I don’t think he will. This team has a lot of potential and a lot of great young players.”

What to Expect:

In this first glimpse of the Raiders on offense, the microscope will be on offensive coordinator Hue Jackson. No, he won’t present a full playbook for everyone to absorb across the league, but Oakland’s new play caller will try to show that this offense is more diverse and not as easy to defend. Most of that is due to stability at quarterback. So seeing more complex aerial attacks down the field in their pre-season games will be refreshing to Raider fans. Tom Cable’s main objective though will be to get the offensive line sorted, blocking well and cohesive as they approach their first regular season contest.

On Defense:

Oakland has revamped this unit with Lamarr Houston, John Henderson along the trenches, Kamerion Wimbley, Rolando McClain and Quentin Groves at linebacker and solid late draft picks in the secondary.

Stopping the run and keeping their defense balanced will be the prime objective in 2010. And Henderson is the type of player that can come in for 20-30 snaps a game and provide the bulk that has been missing since their 2002 Super Bowl run.

“I love stopping the run,” Henderson told the Contra Costa Times. “I take a lot of pride in it. That’s something we’ve got to get better at. I live for it. You can take me out on third and long. Just put me in on short yardage and all that good stuff.”

What to Expect:

Is this defense on the attack? How do the linebackers play in coverage? Can Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly and Henderson sure up the line of scrimmage? Who steps up at Safety and becomes a playmaker? These are all questions that need to be answered. They won’t happen in this first game, but some of the reserves or players on the fringe could take a big step forward to being key contributors in 2010.

DALLAS COWBOYS

On Offense:

In his cameo last week, Tony Romo was 5-of-10 passing for 59 yards. The Cowboys want to be a tough running club with Marion Barber and dynamic down the field with their wide receivers.

But with their top rookie out of action, veteran Roy Williams (1 reception for 21 yards, last week) and break out target Miles Austin (1 reception for 16 yards vs. the Bengals) will have to generate some big plays in the coming weeks so they have a good feeling going into the regular season.

Tight end John Phillips, who tallied four catches for 60 yards last week, sustained a torn ACL in his right knee during the contest and will miss the entire regular season.

What to Expect:

Dallas will test Oakland’s batch of defenders along the line of scrimmage this week. They have one game under their belt, so getting the offensive line more reps against a Raiders unit that is seeing their first action could be in the mix. The Cowboys will probably run the ball effectively, as they’ll keep their starters in longer than Oakland will.

On Defense:

This side of the ball played well against Cincinnati, holding them to 179 total yards. In limited action, Carson Palmer was knocked around a few times and the Dallas defense looked like they were in regular season mode.

Marcus Spears will be missing for a few weeks, but teammates are optimistic about his return. “He’ll be back,” inside linebacker Bradie James said. “This gives him a chance to rest his legs and get ready for the season. We’ll need him.”

The Cowboys focus on being stout against the run. They finished fourth against the run last season, allowing 90.5 yards per game. They gave up 3.97 yards per carry, ninth-lowest average in the league.

What to Expect:

The Cowboys first team defense wants to derail any hopes for the newly installed Raiders offense. They are familiar with Jason Campbell, so it will be interesting to see how that will effect the ex-Redskins performance early in the contest.

GAME NOTES

• Oakland holds a 17-9 edge in the preseason series against Dallas; winning at home 31-10 last summer. Both clubs met on Thanksgiving Day during the 2009 regular season, a 24-7 Cowboys victory in Arlington.
• RB Darren McFadden will not play on Thursday. “Hamstrings can be tricky injuries,” he said. “I didn’t want to try to get back on it too fast. I’m just trying to make sure it’s 100 (percent) before I do.”
• Jason Witten and DajLeon Farr are the only healthy tight ends for the Cowboys. The Raider linebackers need to be tested in coverage, but Martellus Bennett will also be out.

GAME INFO

When: Thursday, August 12, 2010, 6:00 p.m. PT

Where: Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Per a press release by the Silver & Black:

Oakland Raiders RB Darren McFadden visited school children in Richmond as part of the NFL and National Dairy Council’s Fuel Up to Play 60 initiative. McFadden encouraged Grant Elementary School students to eat healthy, get plenty of exercise and do well in school. The goal is to encourage kids to “fuel up” with more nutrient-rich foods — low-fat and fat-free dairy foods, fruits; vegetables; whole grains; and meat and beans, and motivate kids to be more active and play for 60 minutes a day.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

OAKLAND — An always smiling Jailen Cooper must have been in Seventh Heaven as Wednesday’s Oakland Raiders’ VIP guest along with his proud family from North Carolina. Jailen was chosen by the Make-A-Wish Foundation to participate in an Oakland Raiders practice session. He is also recovering from a tumor on his pituitary gland and the subsequent treatments, but you would never guess that in a million years judging by his exuberance.

Raiders’ CEO Amy Trask and the rest of the Oakland Raiders rolled out the red carpet for Jailen as they gave him his own locker complete with his own personalized jersey and cap. The Raiders also gave him Carte blanche of the practice field as he got a once in a lifetime opportunity to lead the team warmups alongside the team trainer, assist the assistant coaches during positional drills, and even watched the more intensive team drills alongside Raider Head Coach Tom Cable! Never once looking overwhelmed; Jailen looked curiously like a seasoned veteran as if her were made to do this. Jailen was totally in his element.

At the end of practice, the team typically comes together on the field for a group huddle before they hit the lockerrom. This time it was a little different. Jailen was in the center of the team huddle. All of a sudden a chant breaks out, “Jai-len…Jai-len…Jai-len!” from all the players. All of a sudden, the team splits off in two columns; making a gauntlet (it’s sort of like a Soul Train Dance line), but with football players and no music.

At one end of the gauntlet stood Darren McFadden, (Jailen’s favorite football player), with the ball in the ready position and at the other end stood Jailen in his best defensive lineman stance. Then all of a sudden Jailen runs full speed, hits, wraps up (proper technique too), and tackles McFadden to the ground. The team erupts in euphoria as they cheer on Jailen and briefly hoists him in the air in celebration.

Then for kicks and giggles, Jailen stole the show as he headed the coach’s pres conference by fielding questions from the media before coach Cable took over. The kid was AWESOME!!! Did I mention that he’s only 10 years old?!

*ESPN will be airing Jailen’s visit and other Make-A-Wish recipients July 18-27.

Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR:

He’ll get a lot of mileage out of the performance on Wednesday during the OTA. But the reality is, that was in a controlled environment and not against live opponents. The second year speedster is still under the gun and a major question mark. The Oakland Raiders need him to be a solid contributor. Mainly because the owner wants him out there and without a real deep threat, the Silver & Black need Heyward-Bey to have some mastery of shorter routes in order to blow past defenders on deeper routes.

Hue Jackson, offensive coordinator:

No coach in recent years has had such a positive influence on the team in such a short time. He wants his offense to have a pace, the players to be accountable of their assignments and ultimately, production out of a grouping that has been one of the worst in the league in recent years. Plan A – get the offensive line straightened out and functioning. That will lead to plan-b: to pound the football on the ground with his talented rushers. The next plan, which will be an easier task with the competent passers on the roster, is expanding Oakland’s playbook, making them harder to defend with a variety of formations and a viable passing attack.

Darren McFadden, RB:

The time is now for the multi-talented running back. It appears that Michael Bush will be the primary ball carrier and that Oakland would like a veteran take over the back-up role. But McFadden will be mixed in and used a lot more efficiently to cater to his abilities. He’s a threat lined up as a wide receiver and as a target out of the backfield. And occasional sweep and toss could also make him a more effective player in Jackson’s offense.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Jerry McDonald was on the mark when he stated in his blog that “there is no chance he’ll be traded,” when talking about Michael Bush. The Oakland Raiders intend to rely heavily on their ground game this upcoming campaign, with Bush being the focal point on the first unit as the primary ball carrier.

The two-headed monster of Bush and Darren McFadden need to step-up, and with the arrival of Hue Jackson and his desire to diversify the playbook, expect Oakland to depend on a third ball carrier as well.

McFadden, for his physical abilities, may be best suited as a jack-of-all trades; a multidimensional weapon that can cause match-up problems lined up as a receiver, or used in that same capacity out of the backfield.

Now that the Raiders feel that the competence level is a lot higher at quarterback, this will allow Jackson to implement new formations and more complex attacks.

But that will all stem off Bush’s ability to carry the load and McFadden’s skill set being utilized properly.

Michael Bennett may be that solid veteran that understands roles on a club and can contribute as the team’s reserved rusher. Rock Cartwright was also brought in to compete – and his working relationship with Jason Campbell could give him an edge.

Bush is definitely not going anywhere. And this running back grouping is by far the team’s deepest unit and one that will be expected to come up big in order for this offense to be functional in 2010.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist