Silver and Black Report

According to Profootballtalk.com, the Oakland Raiders have released defensive tackle Gerard Warren, who had a roster bonus due on March 16.

Warren, 31, was acquired via trade from the Denver Broncos. He’s been entrenched along the defensive line since his arrival, but Oakland has consistently been one of the worst run defenses in the league even with his addition.

He started 32-games last two seasons.

Kirk Morrison, who was a guest of Adam Schein and Solomon Wilcots today on “The Sirius Blitz” on Sirius NFL Radio stated, “There are some teams we’re looking at and we’ve talked to.”

“I’m technically an Oakland Raider still. That’s No. 1,” Morrison said. “But at the same time, you have to explore your options for the future, for the long term. There are some teams out there that would be a good fit, I feel like. But we just have to wait and see.”

The linebacker did not mention any specific clubs.

“Hopefully, in the next couple of weeks we can get something done … either with the Raiders or with other teams. I know next year I’m going to be playing football. I just want to make sure I’m in the best, most comfortable position I can be in.”

Morrison, 28, can pocket up to $2.521 million if he signs the third round tender by the Raiders.

He’s been a five-year starter and has lead the team in tackles in four of those five campaigns.

Per circulating reports, the Oakland Raiders are expected to waive running back Justin Fargas and defensive tackle Gerard Warren. Both have roster bonuses scheduled this month that the Silver & Black are not expected to absorb.

Fargas, 30, was selected in the 3^rd round of the 2003 draft. He emerged in 2006, rushing for 659-yards on 178 carries. The following campaign, he amassed 1,009 yards averaging 4.5 yards per carry.

Always a hard-worker and a tough competitor, Oakland has leaned on Fargas’ play even when they acquired young rushers via the draft. But his age – a time when ball carriers starting breaking down – and the presence of Michael Bush and Darren McFadden make him expendable at his cost.

Warren, 31, was acquired via trade from the Denver Broncos. He’s been entrenched along the defensive line since his arrival, but Oakland has consistently been one of the worst run defenses in the league even with his addition.

Richard Seymour will come back in 2010 along with Tommy Kelly, two linemen that have hefty cap numbers. But the presence of youngsters such as Matt Shaughnessy and Desmond Bryant, their upside and cost efficient contracts will allow Oakland to part ways with Warren very easily.

According to beat writer Steve Corkran, the Oakland Raiders could be ready to pull the plug on Tom Cable.

In an article written after the 21-13 defeat at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens, he stated that several people close to Al Davis believe that he is inclined to fire Cable and bring in a new head coach.

Cable replaced Lane Kiffin four games into the 2008 campaign and went 9-19 as interim/head coach.

For the most part, players have been supportive of Cable and have stated their desire for some continuity. If he is canned, the next coach to come in will be the sixth since Jon Gruden’s departure after the 2001 season.

Players lobbied after the 2008 season before Oakland took away the interim label.

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

After the Ravens game, others stated their thoughts:

“Sometimes it doesn’t take a coach two years, sometimes it does take him three,” Nnamdi Asomugha commented. “Tom during his speech today said, ‘This is a playoff team and next year we’ll be in the playoffs.’

He continued: “We started to get a rhythm, and we started to understand what we were doing. I would definitely try to get Cable back, just because that gives us some consistency.”

Cable took over the play calling during his span. But the offense lacked plenty of pop, mainly due to the faulty development of young players.

JaMarcus Russell is nearing mega-bust status, Oakland gambled taking speedster Darrius Heyward-Bey so high in the draft and Darren McFadden has not found his niche, nor has he been the explosive talent they expected upon his arrival.

Cable did make a move away from Russell, and when Bruce Gradkowski and Charlie Frye took over, the offense appeared more respectable.

But how does Al Davis feel about that, as he has clearly stated in the past that Russell was his choice and believes in his future greatness.

Russell is guaranteed $3 million next year and slated to bank $9.45 million in base salary.

“There always is (hope) for anyone who has the talent,” Cable was quoted.

Among some of the lowlights during Cable’s tenure:

His team’s inability to put together solid back-to-back efforts and getting hammered the week after victories, being overwhelmed with the Xs and Os during contests, noted especially as Oakland was one of the worst teams offensively coming out of halftime and then there were the stories ESPN exposed about his history of violent behavior that brought unnecessary coverage and more negative public vibes to a team that is in the midst of seven straight seasons with 11 or more losses.

Oh, and lets not forget the Randy Hanson saga.

Cable has been a good soldier. He did turn around a horrid offensive line that allowed 72-sacks in 2006 and made them into a functional group. He turned Robert Gallery’s career around, made Mario Henderson into a starting caliber left guard, was at the helm when the team pulled off solid victories against playoff contending teams and gave this team some semblance of order after the Kiffin fiasco.

If Oakland does give him the boot, where do they go?

Are there better options for this organization that will legitimately embrace this job as Cable has? And will more change just add regression to a team that is in no shape to move backward after showing signs of life in 2009.

Cable may not be the best head coach out there; but he may be there best option.

Unless a proven commodity comes in and takes over and the owner finally loosens up and allows football decisions be made by others, more of the same will be seen.

Cable may be a better position coach than a head coach. He also may only be able to take these Raiders so far. Cable doesn’t give the impression of a coach that can take his team forwardnad make major steps to turning them into a contender. And if that’s the case and Oakland parts ways with him, Davis must open up the bank account and step away to let a premier coach run his fledgling organization.

If Cable stays, Davis must let him coach, run his team and give him help on the sidelines (i.e offensive coordinator) and allow him to do as he pleases to turn this ship around.

Like Gerard Warren stated: “Guys fought with a lot of effort this year, but 5-11 just don’t get it cut, man. We’re trying to be in the playoff race and go try to get this (Super Bowl) ring. That’s what the game’s all about.”

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

QUARTERBACK: D

Charlie Frye dropped to 7-15 as a starter. He put the Raiders behind the eight ball early in the contest with his first pass of the game. David Bowens intercepted Frye as the passer tried to get the ball to Darren McFadden on a slant. The linebacker drifted into the area Frye was locked in on and set the Browns up at Oakland’s 17-yard line before Jerome Harrison drove it in for a score to give Cleveland a 7-0 lead. His next two passes were deep balls to Chaz Schilens that were off the mark. At times Frye was decisive and handled the offense smartly. He hit Schilens on a 16-yard gain on 3^rd and 3 in the first quarter, combined with Zach Miller for a 5-yard completion on 3^rd and 3 right before the half and he used his feet to extend plays. But the turnovers thwarted too many drives and his miscues crippled the offense when they needed big plays. He ended 26/45 for 333 yards, no scores and 3 interceptions.

RUNNING BACKS & FULLBACKS: C

Michael Bush had 9 carries for 50 yards at halftime. Oakland only fed him the ball on the ground one other time in the second half for 2-yards. Bush had a decent start running for 14-yards on the Raiders third drive and gaining 12 on a 2^nd and 8 in the 2^nd quarter. But for some reason, the Raiders abandoned the rushing game and made life easier for the Cleveland defense. Darren McFadden tallied 23-yards on the ground and 55-yards receiving. Against a team that allowed 149.6 yards per game on the ground and the opponent within reach, Oakland failed to establish a run game and give Frye a more balanced attack. Gary Russell added 2 catches for 14-yards, the key one being an 11 yard toss out of the backfield when Oakland started a drive backed up against their own goal line. But the fullback blew a block at the start of the 4^th quarter that led to a Matt Roth sack.

WIDE RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS: C-

Zach Miller was stellar, compiling 9 receptions for 110 yards. His taunting infraction was sketchy after a remarkable 27-yard grab in the 4^th quarter. Chaz Schilens ended with 64-yards on 4 grabs. Johnnie Lee Higgins victimized Frye with two key drops and was out of sync in the passing game. His lone haul was a 33-yard pass on a double move, beating cornerback Eric Wright on Oakland’s first play of the final quarter. Louis Murphy had a key catch negated by a penalty that could’ve set Oakland with a 1^st down at Cleveland’s 2-yard line. His 3^rd and 1 reception late in the game for 6-yards was a nice snatch on a high toss.

OFFENSIVE LINE: F

This group allowed four sacks and offered very little support to the ball carries, as the Raiders ended with a feeble 88-yards rushing. Cornell Green’s holding infraction on 3rd and 4 wiped away Murphy’s 14-yard reception at the Browns 2-yard line in the 1^st quarter.  Once Langston Walker left the game, the Raiders lost their toughness. He was replaced by Chris Morris who quickly picked up a false start flag on a 3^rd and 3 and the Browns overloaded the left side of the formation on the ensuing play to rush Frye and facilitate an incompletion. Morris was later penalized for a hold and on the next play; Roth mauled him on a blitz that put the Raiders in a 2^nd and 26. Mario Henderson faced a lot of blitzes on his side of the formation and was flagged for a false start as the game wound down.

DEFENSIVE LINE: D

Harrison had a strong outing with 39-carries for 148-yards and a touchdown. For some stretches, the Raiders held up at the line of scrimmage and battled against an offense that wanted to stay on the ground most of the day. But Harrison pounded away and a few times, his offensive line was able to open up some gaping holes. Matt Shaughnessy gave a solid effort today with two tackles for losses – displaying strong backside help on one 8-yard loss. Gerard Warren continued his solid play and tallied a sack versus his old club. Richard Seymour single-handedly gave the Browns seven points with his personal foul and unsportsmanlike conduct infractions late in the 1^st half when the contest became tense. “A little light just started the whole thing,” Seymour commented. “Everybody just jumped on. Obviously, we have to keep our composure. You never want to have personal fouls on a drive, especially on a play that didn’t even happen and you get another one.”

LINEBACKERS: D

Kirk Morrison was out of position on many of Harrison’s key runs; getting caught in traffic or getting late to a meeting point with the ball carrier around the line of scrimmage. Thomas Howard had one stand out play in coverage against Evan Moore. Otherwise, it was a quiet game from this group, including Trevor Scott who was sold at times versus the run, but did not provide the rush he has in recent weeks.

SECONDARY: C

Stanford Routt was ejected for a head-butt in the 2^nd quarter and was seen pushing Eric Steinbach a few plays before Mohamed Massaquoi’s 19-yard touchdown reception versus Chris Johnson. Johnson again had a tough time being the focal point of the opponent, beaten by Massaquoi for a 28-yard gain and getting flagged for pass interference on a 3^rd and 16 for 18-yards. Tyvon Branch was active again against the run, but he continues to have lapses in space allowing a 24-yard completion to Michael Gaines. Derek Anderson only had 17-pass attempts, but he completed eight of them for 121 yards.

SPECIAL TEAMS: B+

Sebastian Janikowski nailed a career long 61-yard field goal as time expired in the 2^nd quarter. He also booted both of his other two attempts through the uprights from 44 and 34-yards out to give the Raiders their only scores of the game. Oakland had directional kick-offs to avoid Joshua Cribbs, but it hurt them on one instance when Harrison recovered the football and went 39-yards to the Oakland 43-yard line. That field position led to a Phil Dawson 33-yard field goal, which gave the Browns a 20-9 lead. Slade Norris and Isaiah Ekejiuba had a nice stuff on Cribbs, as well as Gary Russell, who helped corral the explosive returner for 60 total yards on the day on 5 touches. The return units for Oakland continue to be abysmal and to compound the misery today, Tony Stewart was ejected after Russell’s horrific 11-yard kickoff return in the 4^th quarter.

COACHING: F

Tom Cable’s bunch again failed to notch back-to-back victories. They abandoned the run and came out with Frye firing against a team that has struggled all season stopping consistent ground attacks. The play-calling was lackluster, especially late when they attempted to run fade routes to Murphy on back-to-back plays – one which ended on a interception by Eric Wright that was overturned another on a busted play that Frye was not able to get off after penetration disrupted his short drop in the pocket. The Browns have an anemic offense as well, ranking 31^st in total yards per game entering the contest. But allowed too many big plays to help them move the chains and sustain drives. What also helped was how undisciplined the defense was, losing their composure and imploding in certain spots. Oakland tallied 13-penalties for 126-yards. Add the three turnovers, and this just proves that it does not matter who the opponent is, the Raiders are not ready to build on their recent success and go on the road and take care of business. “Some it is uncalled for stuff,” Cable said. “We’ve got to see what’s going on, but that’s 130 yards and that’s disappointing.” And that falls directly on the coaching staff, their preparation and inability to challenge these players. Another defeat next week extends their already agonizing 11 losses or more streak.

GAME NOTES:

• Inactives included: Bruce Gradkowski, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Justin Fargas, Khalif Barnes, Brandon Myers, Javon Walker and Nick Miller.
• “I didn’t give our team a very good chance to win. Turnovers trump everything,” said Frye after the game, who sustained a concussion last week and faced his former team today.
• “We’ve shown flashes of being a championship-caliber team. We’ve shown flashes of being one of those cellar-dweller type teams,” Nnamdi Asomugha said. “It’s kind of like we haven’t been able to figure out who we wanted to be. If you want to be a contender in this league, you have to have an identity.”

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

QUARTERBACK: C-

Bruce Gradkowski ended the game 18-of-35 for 200 yards one touchdown and no interceptions. Many times, he had to get rid of the football under the gun, which affected his accuracy. On back-to-back plays to open the game – on 2^nd and 6 and 3^rd and 6 – he was not able to set up his feet or release the ball cleanly to keep the drive alive. A few times, Oakland attempted to stretch the field and Gradkowski stated after the game, “There were plays there to be made downfield and I didn’t make them.”

His elusiveness helped the Raiders on their scoring drive and in total; Gradkowski’s feet helped him tally 30-yards rushing. Oakland’s passer misfired on plays that could have been converted which would have moved the chains.

RUNNING BACKS & FULLBACKS: B

Justin Fargas’ first half was superb. He ran hard and gained big chunks, compiling most of his team leading 63-yards rushing. Darren McFadden finished the game with 6 carries for 23 yards, but he was mostly used as a receiver, getting split out wide in one-to-one match-ups with the Cowboys’ cornerbacks. On 2^nd and 5 on the Raiders’ first drive, he hauled in a quick slant for 16-yards. McFadden had 4 catches for 43-yards.

WIDE RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS: D

Zach Miller recorded 5 grabs for 73-yards in the dual between two of the top tight ends in the NFL. Miller on national television demonstrated he ranks right up there with Jason Witten (5 rec. 107 yards) and was one of the few bright spots for the Oakland offense. Chaz Schilens outstretched on a 3^rd and 4 on the game’s third drive but could not haul in a make able reception. On the Raiders next possession, he ran a sloppy slant that the defender broke up on a 3^rd and 4. Schilens ended with 2 receptions for 32-yards. Darrius Heyward-Bey finally hauled iin his first professional touchdown. “I tried to help the cause with that play,” Heyward-Bey commented, “but when you lose, it’s all that matters. You want to win at the end.” The rookie had a nice block on McFadden’s best run of the game – a sweep for 12-yards.

OFFENSIVE LINE: D

Right tackle Cornell Green left the game for a few plays with an injury and was replaced by Langston Walker. He eventually went back into the game. Cooper Carlisle’s holding penalty thwarted any movement on Oakland’s second drive. The front looked good early in opening holes for their rushers, but did very little at times to keep Gradkowski’s pocket clean or his passing lanes paved. They allowed three sacks.

DEFENSIVE LINE: F

Dallas ran up 195 rushing yards against this defense. It all headed downhill after Tashard Choice’s 66-yard run to open their third drive in the 1^st quarter. To the defenses credit, they did hold the Cowboys to a field goal on that drive. But on the very next Dallas possession, Felix Jones erupted on a 46-yard scamper for a score. “What is Rule No. 1 in Pop Warner?” nose tackle Gerard Warren pose to reporters after the game. “Stop the run.”

LINEBACKERS: C

Trevor Scott had a stellar game at weak side linebacker. Due to injuries on this unit, Oakland mixed it up placing the defensive end in coverage situations and giving him the opportunity to use his instincts in space. Scott could’ve had an interception on a 3^rd and 9 in which Tony Romo carelessly tossed the football away,  on a 2^nd and 13, he dissected a screen and closed in on the pass catcher for a 4-yard loss and he ended with two-sacks when he pass rushed. “A few days ago they said they wanted me to start at (Will) this game so I was like, `all right, let’s run with it,’ ” Scott was quoted. “If it’s an opportunity to get on the field, so be it. Some guys don’t feel comfortable in a two-point stance, so if they stick with it, great.”  Sam Williams was beat a few times by Witten.

SECONDARY: F

Miles Austin torched this unit for 7 receptions, 145 yards and 1 touchdown. Nnamdi Asomugha was the victim a few times on man-to-man coverage. Michael Huff started the game nicely on a 3^rd and 24, breaking up a pass intended for Roy Williams and then on the next Cowboy possession on 2^nd and 9, jarring a pass out of Austin’s grasp with a solid hit. Romo had a field day with his 18 completions for 309 yards. Tyvon Branch had a beat on a deflected ball that could’ve been an interception for a touchdown, but Trevor Scott gave chase as well and both took each other out on the play.

SPECIAL TEAMS: B

The anemic return units continued with their struggles. Gary Russell did very little to add some pop to the kickoff returns as Oakland looked for a change of pace after trying Jonathan Holland in that spot for a few games. Shane Lechler punted nine-times for a 54.8 average. His season average is now 51.9 – keeping him ahead of Sammy Baugh’s single season record.

COACHING: D

On defense, it was nice to see the Raiders pressure from the linebacker spot and John Marshall mixing up the formations and disguising the coverages. But many times, the attacks along the line of scrimmage led to big plays due to the Raiders being out of position.  Not too much praise though can be given especially after Dallas racked up 494 total yards of offense. Tom Cable has altered his game plan and feels more confident with Gradkowski at the helm of the offense. The Raiders are mixing up more passing a play, but at times, that has taken away from their bread and butter – running the football.

GAME NOTES

• Jon Alston was placed on injured reserve, ending his season, after suffering two concussions in four weeks. Rookie Slade Norris was activated in his place after spending the majority of the season on the practice squad.
• CB John Bowie, forever linked as the player selected with a 4^th round pick acquired from the Patriots in the Randy Moss trade, was waived this week. His final stats with the Raiders – 2 tackles.
• Greg Ellis did not finish the contest due to swelling in his knee. “I don’t know what happened. I just know swelling, a lot of pressure, going down my leg, going down my knee down my shin and my calf. I don’t know if I did something during the game,’’ Ellis stated. “It started off swelling some but that’s to be expected coming off the scope but when we started playing, it was just killing me.”

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Here are some quotes from JaMarcus Russell after the Oakland Raiders 44-7 defeat at the hands of the New York Giants:

About the team’s effort:

Ah, we was kind of behind the eight ball once again. But, I think we kept fighting till the end. We played against a great football team today. And it showed, especially when we was not moving the football like we should and you have to strike some sort of way against a team that, goes out, good defense, offense is moving the ball. Our offense, we just have to show up.

I asked him about the frustration, every week the offense not producing and going up against a tough Giants’ defense:

It really can’t be explained man. We say we are not far on certain plays, but not far is not going to get us where we need to be.

We need to be there, much closer than what we are.

Talking to Gerard Warren during the game:

Telling me just to keep fighting, stick in there…

He does that a lot. He just tells me that he was going to go out there and keep fighting just to get us the ball back so we can move forward as an offense.

I then asked if he felt the pressure today applied by the Giants and if he felt comfortable behind the offensive line:

At the time man, you don’t really pay attention of who’s in. When a guy is out, it’s a better situation for the guy coming in, to show what he could do to help. And I expect that out of each and every one of the guys that came in the game. So, I don’t really pay much attention to it, I just continue to do what I can do and control what I can control.

We played against a good group today.

On locking in on receivers and whether he can feel the pressure:

Locked in, you know, Most of the time you feel it and you kind of get away from it.

[Giants] were just making plays today…

What possible good can come out of this game?

The good things we did today. That’s always a plus. It may not seem like it at the time, but there is always a plus to look from it. Hopefully, we can gain a lot from it and keep fighting. It’s got to be a brighter day. At the end of that tunnel, there has to be a brighter light.

What would be some of the good things to focus on?

On certain plays when you can tell the guy is making the right step on a block or anything positive you can pull out of what we did today.

About being fined, being overweight:

That was sort of the first day that I came to practice [back in camp]. Yeah, that’s over with.

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report.net Columnist

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The New York Giants took the game’s opening drive down the field and scored on the Oakland Raiders, with Eli Manning leading a 14 play drive that ate up 77-yards. On the possession, Manning opened the game with a 9-yard completion to Darcy Johnson for 9-yards. Facing a 3rd and 7, Gerard Warren jumped offsides and gave New York a manageable 3^rd and 2. On that play, Manning found a streaking Steve Smith for 8-yards with Stanford Routt trailing on the play. A few plays later, on 3^rd and 8, the Raiders were penalized again, this time Routt for pass interference in trying to cover Smith. The 11-yard penalty set-up the Giants deep in Raiders territory and a few plays later on 4^th and goal from the 1, Ahmad Bradshaw gave the Giants a 7-0 lead.

Oakland’s opening drive stalled after Michael Bush ran for 7 yards on the first play. Erik Pears was flagged for a false start and the Raiders were not able to recover after that.  On 3^rd and 6, JaMarcus Russell avoided a sack and was able to find a wide-open Todd Watkins near midfield, but the receiver was not able to hold on to the pass, which would have extended the Raiders’ drive.

The Giants quickly bolted down the field on their next drive. Manning connected with Smith for 43-yards on a perfect sideline toss with Chris Johnson and Hiram Eugene in coverage. Then, Bradshaw ripped a 17-yard gain before darting to the end zone from 19-yards out to give the Giants a 14-0 lead.

Manning at that point was 5-of-6 for 79 yards, this after being held out of practice most of the week with a foot injury.

Oakland had an uneventful second drive that ended with a Zach Miller reception for 5-yards on 3^rd and 6.

New York again attacked on their next possession, with Bradshaw ripping the Raider defense for a 23-yard gain and then closing the quarter with a 55-yard catch and run on 3^rd and 23.

SCORE: Giants 14 – Raiders 0

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report.net Columnist

QUARTERBACK: D

The final stats were not horrific, but they still remain putrid. JaMarcus Russell again led a feeble pass attack that averaged 3.9 per completion, and he only converted on 12 of his 33 pass attempts. The first play of the game was a receiver screen to Louis Murphy, as Oakland attempted to get him in sync early. A few plays later, on a 3rd and 11, he scrambled and completed an 8-yard toss to Todd Watkins. That was a sign of things to come, as Russell had to face many 3rd and long situation due to an ineffective run game and poor play calling by Tom Cable. That does not excuse Russell’s poor performance nor does it make him exempt from critique. He had to make quick decisions this afternoon as evidenced on Oakland’s second possession when Amobi Okoye tallied a sack on a 2nd and 8 – again setting up an unworkable 3rd and long. It wasn’t until their third possession that Russell looked more at ease. He opened the drive with a 12-yard toss to Zach Miller, but his teammates killed the drive with a false start and his 1st round receiver dropped a make able reception. Russell’s cannon arm was on display on a 3rd and 13 completion for 16-yards that was negated by the officials and a 4th and 9 he hit Murphy for 19-yards. Yes his accuracy was off again, his leadership and fire was lacking and ultimately, the offense did nothing. But he tried to manage the game a lot better and with a defense primed to stop the run, he needed the accessories around him to play a lot better as well.

RUNNING BACKS: F

This unit was soft and lackluster all afternoon. Darren McFadden ended with 6 carries for -3 yards. He went down easily on sweeps, showed no fight on any of his runs and appeared like a deer caught in front of headlights against a struggling defense. Granted the offensive line did not get any push, but none of the Raiders young rushers came to play. Michael Bush had 3 carries for 10-yards andt fumbled after a screenplay that gave the Texans the ball at the Oakland 41-yard line in the 3rd quarter. Justin Fargas got the bulk of the carries as the half wound down and the second half began. The other two ball carriers may have more talent than Fargas, and he doesn’t have game-breaking ability, but the veteran runs with more ferociousness and has the type of attitude to get some life into this lifeless offense. Oren O’Neal looks slow, is not playing powerful football, and at this point, Luke Lawton looks to be the better option at fullback due to his versatility.

WIDE RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS: F

Russell kept the receivers busy, but they did not adjust on their routes and were lacking concentration with their continuous drops and drive killing attempts. Louis Murphy had the case of the dropsies and was robbed of a 16-yard reception in which it appeared that he dragged his second foot on a 3rd and 13, but the challenge was not in favor of Oakland. Darrius Heyward-Bey had his most active game as a Raider. He had one catch for 18-yards, and had a few others his way that he should’ve had, and others that were errant and could not be hauled in. His best play was an end-around in which he gained 20-yards. He touched the ball twice on that drive and Oakland capped that 13-play possession with a field goal. Todd Watkins an uneventful 2 receptions for 20 yards to the group. Zach Miller had a tough time getting open against a very good linebacker group and finished with 3 catches for 33 yards.

OFFENSE LINE: F

For a third straight game, this unit has not been able to win the battle of the trenches. They look slow at the point of attack, are playing soft and are hindering the only asset Oakland has in staying in games – the ground attack. Erik Pears struggled in his second start; getting flagged for a false start, infracted for a hold that was declined because Oakland did not convert on that 3rd down, getting manhandled when run blocking and allowing a sack in the second half. Chris Morris also had a false start; one of the back-to-back flags against a member of the line in the 1st quarter and Cornell Green had his weekly blunder, a false start on a 3rd and 7. At the start o the second half, they came out flat, as McFadden loss 3-yards on a sweep and on the next play, the Texans shot through the line to tackle Murphy on a reverse for a loss of 7. When the Raiders needed this line to assert themselves the most, the let the Texans plow across the line of scrimmage to tackle Fargas in the end zone for a safety that extended the deficit to 22-6. Oakland ran for only 45 yards against a team that came into the game the worst in the NFL against the run.

DEFENSE LINE: C-

They had their moments and fought to keep the Texans grounded. But an offense that can’t stay on the field and very good blocking and schemes by Houston were too much for the Raider front-four. Greg Ellis had a sack and provided pressure in spurts, Jay Richardson came on in the second half for a few reps and tallied his first sack of the season and Gerard Warren had a disruptive game in the interior versus the run and also pulling down Matt Schaub for a sack. But when Houston imposed their will, got on their assignments and put blockers on the defensive line, they moved the ball easily. Houston ran for 120-yards and at times gave a clinic on blocking. Tommy Kelly had his most active game of the season. Matt Shaughnessy recovered Steve Slaton’s 1st quarter fumble after Kelly got the push in the interior to force the miscue.

LINEBACKERS: C-

These groups got caught in traps, were blocked very well by the Texans on their big plays and were neutralized by Schaub’s play-action fakes on various occasions. On 3rd and goal in the 1st quarter, Ricky Brown broke on Schaub’s pass after reading his eyes and almost came up with an interception in the end zone. He cut underneath his assignment on another passing play forcing an incompletion in the 2nd half. On Slaton’s 32-yard score, Thomas Howard was blocked and Kirk Morrison was out of position. When Schaub hit his tight end for 44-yards, Morrison bit on the play action, and was not able to get enough depth in his zone after the cornerback released Owen Daniels into his zone. Brown had a dumb penalty at the end of a play, spearing a receiver when he was down, setting up the Texans at the Oakland 25 yard line after the 15-yard infraction.

SECONDARY: D

Chris Johnson had an up-and-down game. He was matched-up against Andre Johnson a lot of the day and he had his shinning moments, batting away a deep ball on the opening drive, jumping routes to prevent the completion and tackling well around the line of scrimmage. But there were breakdowns too as Kevin Walter beat him at the line of scrimmage after missing the jam and could not recover for a 41-yard gain, and Johnson beat him on a 62-yard toss. Michael Huff struggled versus screens and runs getting off blocks or getting good angles on the play, but almost came up with another pick. Johnson had an interception as time expired at the end of the first half, but he was flagged for excessive celebration, with the Raiders down 20-6.

SPECIAL TEAMS: F

Even the return of Justin Miller could not jolt the return teams. He had 6 returns for 106 yards, but none really scared the Texans. On the other hand, Jacoby Jones broke the game open with his 95-yard return for a score. That play gave the Texans a 29-6 lead; a play after the Houston defense recorded their safety.  Johnnie Lee Higgins booted a punt late that was recovered by Houston.

COACHING: F

Tom Cable’s play calling is hindered by Russell’s issues and the young wide-outs inexperience. But there isn’t enough in the playbook that will scare any opponent, and with the offensive line sleepwalking through games, it looks like this offense will struggle once again this season. This team has no come back ability due to their lack of pop. And if they can’t run, they won’t win any games. Cable has to find a way to get the trenches fixed on both sides of the ball if they want to avoid another double-digit loss season. When the Texans had their offense rolling, they got to all of their assignments and executed efficiently. The run defense was better this week, but not good enough to compete at a high level. Oakland can pressure with four down linemen; a key aspect to laying defense. And they got to Schaub today after only being sacked 2-times prior to this game. But they could not force him into enough mistakes to make this game interesting. Oakland had 8 penalties at the half. The schedule gets tough now for the Raiders, so it will be interesting to see if Cable can get them to play respectable football against quality opponents.

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Louis Murphy on the move against the Saints

QUARTERBACK: C -

Again, JaMarcus Russell’s statistics don’t tell the entire story of what occurred during the game. He ended 12-of-18 for 153 yards, but he did not lead the team to any points and the offense was stagnant the entire first half. In the first half, the offense tallied only 60-yards of offense and three first downs. On the game’s first play, Russell connected on a slant with his prized rookie and then he followed that with a composed play-fake and pass to his favorite target for 35-yards. On the second drive, his pass on 3^rd and 7 was floated down the sideline to Darrius Heyward-Bey and should have been intercepted. Russell was accurate today for the most part, as displayed on a 3^rd and 7 in the 2^nd quarter when he found Louis Murphy for first down yardage, but the target was not able to make the catch. Russell was a victim of his un-proven wide-outs. But ultimately, he has to put points on the scoreboard and help his teammates get better with his elevated play. On another 3^rd and 7, he had an open Johnnie Lee Higgins, but he put too many RPMs on the short toss that was not handled due to the lack of touch. Jeff Garcia ended 9-of15 for 111 yards and a touchdown. On his scoring pass, he had defenders coming at him, as he let go a strong throw towards the sideline.

RUNNING BACK: C -

Justin Fargas did not play and was out. Michael Bush got the start, but was non-factor with three touches total for 9-yards. Darren McFadden continues to prove that he is the most dynamic presence on the team. Upon entering the game, the speedy rusher jolted through the Saints defense for a big gain that was ultimately negated due to a flag. His three official carries were un-eventful, and he had a fumble that was recovered and returned deep into Raider territory. Oren O’Neal looks slow to holes and at times is a hindrance to the runners who are trying to get up the field. Gary Russell ran for 42-yards and contributed on special teams.

WIDE RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS: D+

Zach Miller had a game of ups and downs. He recorded 5 receptions for 74 yards, but his blocking was not up to par today and his hold infraction negated a big gain by McFadden. Louis Murphy (3 rec. 84 yards) had a drop and was stripped on a big gainer after making a nice catch in the 3^rd quarter. The rookie out of Florida also had an up and down game, looking uneasy at times and very skillful other times. Darrius Heyward-Bey worked on his shorter routes today, hauling in a slant on the game’s first play for 12-yards. The CB defending him on another slant almost jumped the route for an interception. Jonathan Holland’s 43-yard touchdown reception and run was the best play of the night. Higgins dropped a possible big gainer in the 3rd quarter.

OFFENSIVE LINE: D -

Again, they were not able to pave lanes for the first team rushers and were slow at the point of attack. Oakland ran for 1-yard in the 1^st half. The pass blocking took a step back today, as Russell and Garcia had defenders around them and had to move in the pocket often. Robert Gallery was infracted for a hold at the end of the half; a few plays later, Russell was sacked. Cornell Green was up and down and Samson Satele does not appear to get any push in the interior. On Garcia’s touchdown pass, the pressure was coming.

DEFENSIVE LINE: F

William Joseph and Gerard Warren are one of the few players that can boast about having a solid play here and there at defensive tackle. The best player along the interior today was Desmond Bryant. He got penetration and was disruptive on a few plays; recording a sack and helping on a couple of runs that tallied little yardage. Trevor Scott brought the heat at the end of the 1^st half; forcing Mark Brunell to throw away a pass out of the end zone and then facilitating a turnover on the ensuing play with his closing speed toward the passer.

LINEBACKERS: C -

This unit struggled in space all day. Ricky Brown had a couple of stops that were note-worthy. But overall, Thomas Howard and Sam Williams were not effective. Jon Alston continues to cruise on easy street, not making any stellar plays and looking more and more like a back-up or one-dimensional special teamer. Brown and Howard are one of the few players on this side of the ball that play with fire.

SECONDARY: F

Toyed by Drew Brees all day, the defensive backs and safeties were horrendous today. Hiram Eugene missed various tackles that sprung New Orleans’ rushers for substantial gains. He also was victimized on deeper routes and useless in coverage. The interception he recorded was forced by the pass rush and right into his hands. Stanford Routt missed a tackle that sprung Robert Meachem for a 71-yard gain and his coverage was abysmal was flagged twice while trying to cover Lance Moore. Chris Johnson allowed free-releases all day and was soft against the Saints’ receivers. He showed hustle and used his world-class speed chasing down Meachem on Routt’s missed tackle. Overall, the secondary missed too many tackles and blew too many assignments against a team who is a machine on offense. Michael Hawkins delivered a nice hit in the 4^th quarter.

SPECIAL TEAMS: B

Gary Russell, Jon Condo and David Nixon had a few nice tackles on punt coverage. Nick Miller recorded 105 yards on punt and kickoff yards, but does not appear to be a threat to Justin Miller. Ricky Schmitt looks to be a solid punter, but with Shane Lechler on the roster, and the Raiders hoping to have the all-pro ready for the opener, the rookie from Sheperd could be attracting suitors elsewhere.

COACHING: D-

Tom Cable’s team looked over-matched all day. Just like they did in the regular season meeting last year in New Orleans. The defense took a step backward on all facets and the offense also regressed. At home, you expect the Raiders to give a better effort. John Marshall’s unit could be kept off-balance all season if they continue to have issues stopping the run. The back-end of the secondary is lacking talent and has young players that are inexperienced.

NOTES:

• TOTAL YARDS: New Orleans 536 Oakland 316
• PASSING YARDS: New Orleans 304 Oakland 264
• RUSHING YARDS: New Orleans 232 Oakland 52
• Time of Possession: New Orleans 39:27 Oakland 20:33
• 1st downs: New Orleans 31 Oakland 9
• 3^rd down Conversions: New Orleans 8-16 Oakland 1-10