Jerry McDonald reports that Eugene was signed prior to Thursday’s deadline, landing a four-year contract worth $2 million this year, $2.25 million in 2012, $2.75 million in 2013 and $3.25 million in 2014.

Eugene’s hefty raise could signal the end of Michael Huff’s tenure with the Silver & Black.

Huff is a free agent in waiting, and like many players at the end of their deals, the former first-round draft choice had his best season as a pro. The starting free-safety has always stated his love of the state of Texas, as he is a native of Irving and attended the University of Texas. Rob Ryan, Oakland’s former defensive coordinator, has that similar position with the Dallas Cowboys now.

After missing out on Bob Sanders and O.J. Atogwe, the safety starved Cowboys could target Huff.

Oakland may not be able to match a pricey contract, or dissuade Huff from playing in his hometown.

Eugene was a valued member of the special teams, but rarely made an impact on defense. In 2009, when elevated to play at safety, Eugene showed little promise or capabilities to remain in the starting rotation.

In 2010, Eugene’s tackling on the coverage units, fumble recovery in a game versus the Broncos and touchdown off a Brandon Myers punt block helped the Raiders win some home contests.

There’s no denying his importance to John Fassel’s unit, but there are many questions surrounding his usefulness as a safety.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Oakland’s roster is full of question marks and depending on what happens with the collective bargaining agreement. With March 4^th just around the corner, we’ll look at the players that could stay, or depart.

PLAYERS LIKELY TO STAY

Richard Seymour, DL

All signs point to the Silver & Black using their franchise tag on their veteran leader on defense. He was dominating for stretches in 2010 and was the vocal presence needed on the field and in the locker room for many of their developing players. His age is a concern, and Oakland would love to strike a multi-year deal with him to free up the tag for their tight end, but keeping Seymour is imperative especially with a gang of youths along the trenches and a new coordinator coming in. The tag could cost Oakland roughly $15 million for 2011.

Stanford Routt, CB

Oakland tendered first and third round choices last year, ensuring he’ll stick around. He’s a favorite of the owner and will likely stay and battle for a starting spot.

Hiram Eugene, S/ST

Evolved into special team stand-out last year, which will keep him around. It is unlikely anyone sees him as a contributor on defense, and Oakland knows exactly what his value is.

Zach Miller, TE

He has a value in the open market and many teams need a player of his abilities. Equally adept at pass blocking and at pass catching, Miller may be wooed or enticed by the chance of earning a tad more elsewhere. But he is the Raiders player rep and genuinely likes the vibe with the team.

Langston Walker, OL

Likely to stick around because of his stability. A very smart player, Walker has a home in Silver & Black as long as Al Davis is calling the shots.

Jon Condo, ST/OL

Sebastian Janikowski and Shane Lechler will lobby for his return – that’s enough for the front office.

Sam Williams, LB/ST

Not going anywhere. A role player that understand his value to the team.

Rock Cartwright, RB/ST

Players respected the veteran. He was key on special teams and a guy that was fiery during practices and on Sunday’s.

PLAYERS ON THE FRINGE

Nnamdi Asomugha, CB

There’s no way he earns the same paycheck he has the past few years. No one will just fork that over, but he will get teams inquiring about his services with what may appear like greener pastures. If Asomugha plays nice and gives Oakland a hometown discount, the Raiders will retain him. If the All-Pro cornerback wants to win and join what may appear a perennial winner, then he will depart.

Michael Bush, RB

It’s unknown how the arrest for drunk driving will effect his courtship. One thing is for sure, he is young, has little wear and tear on his body and can be valuable to a team that is looking for a primary ball carrier. Teams shy away from throwing money at running backs, but with his versatility and youth, someone could overpay pay him the first few years of a deal and force Oakland to let him walk. Hue Jackson would love to keep the duo together, it’s up to Bush whether or not he wants to be in spotlight elsewhere.

Kamerion Wimbley, LB

One of the fine moves Oakland made prior to 2010. But with that success, a team high nine sacks, now comes the attention of other suitors.

Michael Huff, FS

Has improved his play in recent years, but far from the playmaker that was highly touted coming out of Texas.

Ricky Brown, LB

A solid backup and coverage unit contributor. In March, Oakland gave him a second round tender. He won’t earn the nearly $1.6 million he did in 2010, but he has a spot on the roster.

Samson Satele, C

Played well enough to deserve another shot at locking down a spot at center, but with Tom Cable gone, does the rest of the staff feel the same way about him?

Mario Henderson, T

Replaced by a rookie, now may get a shot to play if the owner brings him back.

LIKELY GONERS

Thomas Howard, LB

Couldn’t break the rotation and was relegated to spot duty after starting since being drafted in 2006. Time to find a new home, since he won’t crack the line-up and he likely feels that he’s more than just a reserve.

Michael Bennett, RB

If Bush is back, Bennett will depart.

Bruce Gradkowski, QB

I can’t see Oakland keeping him around. Jason Campbell was at ease once the fiery Gradkowski was on injured reserve.

Johnnie Lee Higgins, WR

Had one campaign as a dangerous punt returner. Oakland can easily replace him and his inconsistent play.

Robert Gallery, G

With a change in philosophy along the trenches and Tom Cable’s departure, that could mark the end of Gallery’s career in Silver & Black that never materialized in the greatness that was anticipated.

Daniel Loper, OL

Plugged holes when needed, but at this point, he may find that job interesting on another club, especially if he doesn’t think he’ll have a fair shake in Oakland.

PICK AND CHOOSE

Kyle Boller or Charlie Frye, QBs

Both are undoubtedly backups. At least Frye has the respect of the organization and is looked at as a player/coach.

NOT GOING ANYWHERE DUE TO SERVICE YEARS

Desmond Bryant, DL

Came on strong in the second half of the season. A key reason why John Henderson may not be back.

Nick Miller, WR/ST

Doesn’t seem to have the pro pedigree, yet sticks around. May not make any other roster.

Marcel Reece, FB

One of the unsung heroes in 2010.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

QUARTERBACKS

Jason Campbell – C

Again, Jason Campbell was knocked out briefly from the contest in the 3^rd quarter, but he was able to return to end the game. He wasn’t as sharp versus Denver as he was the last two-games, but he made solid decisions with the football and kept the chains moving with his steadiness. Campbell’s first interception was an athletic pick at the line of scrimmage by Kevin Vickerson, snaring the football at the line of scrimmage, within close proximity of the passer. In the 2^nd quarter, he scrambled for 25-yards and then connected with Louis Murphy for 14. He had a scoring pass to Zach Miller negated by a sketchy illegal formation infraction. A play later on 2^nd and 19, Campbell overthrew his fullback, Renaldo Hill hauled in the errant pass and returned it to midfield. One of his best tosses was a 20-yard deep out to Darrius Heyward-Bey. In the 4^th quarter, Campbell orchestrated a nice drive that featured a 15-yard completion to Jacoby Ford, a 4^th and 2 conversion to Miller and a 21-yard pass to Darren McFadden to set up a score. That drive, Oakland went up 39-23 with 3:37 remaining.

Kyle Boller – Incomplete

Had a relief appearance for a second straight game. This time around, Boller was not needed to make a crucial throw or direct the team in a vital spot.

RUNNING BACKS/FULL BACK: A

Darren McFadden piled up 116-yards on 20-carries. He added another four catches for 39-yards. His fumble in the 1^st quarter was costly. McFadden attempted to pitch the ball to Ford after a handoff on a reverse, but Jason Hunter’s recovery set up Denver at the Oakland 32-yard line. The Broncos would take the lead 14-7, but on Oakland’s ensuing offensive possession, McFadden busted a 20-yard run after a spin move at the line of scrimmage. He weaved for 36-yards, showing great patience on 2^nd and 9 a few plays later and eventually, Michael Bush tied the game at 14. Michael Bush had 12-rushes for only 24-yards, but hit paydirt twice during the contest. Marcel Reece demonstrated his versatility once again, hauling in a short toss, evading David Bruton and giving the Raiders a 30-20 lead at the start of the 4^th quarter after his 73-yard reception.

WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS: D

Jacoby Ford was the best of his unit mates. His best catch came off a 26-yard crossing route. The exciting rookie opened Oakland’s offensive attack with a 71-yard end around to give the Silver & Black 7-0 lead in the 1^st quarter. Heyward-Bey had one catch for 20-yards, but excelled in his blocking. Murphy’s 14-yard reception was his best across the middle all season with a defender drapped over him. Zach Miller ended with four catches for 39-yards. He fought off a defender on a short toss to pick up 27-yards in the 3^rd quarter. Miller was mauled by Robert Ayers during a McFadden run that went for a loss of 4-yards and was infracted for a hold on a Ford end around.

OFFENSIVE LINE: B

The Raiders had 150-yards rushing at the end of the 1^st quarter (most in a quarter for Oakland since 1991). That tally was at 201-yards by halftime. Oakland only managed 63-yards the rest of the way, as Hue Jackson strangely enough attacked with the passing game on a rainy and muddy day in the second half. Samson Satele blocked off D.J. Williams on Ford’s opening score, Jared Veldheer and Robert Gallery dominated on the left side when Oakland asserted themselves on the ground and Cooper Carlisle was steady at right guard. Veldheer’s illegal hands to the face wiped out a 17-yard gain. Vickerson, who was blocking on Hill’s interception return, knocked Langston Walker out of the game in the 2nd quarter. Khalif Barnes was serviceable at right tackle, flagged only once, for a false start. This group did not allow a sack today.

DEFENSIVE LINE: A

Tommy Kelly was dominant at times today, nota3bly in the 4^th quarter stuffing Lance Ball for a four-yard loss prior to the safety. He had 0.5 sack, Matt Shaughnessy tallied 1.5 quarterback take downs and John Henderson continues to provide solid veteran play in the trenches. Richard Seymour did not finish the contest, but Oakland controlled the Denver ground game all day, allowing an ineffective 106-yards. Tim Tebow’s 40-yard run for a score jolted the Raiders. But they became more aware of his abilities as the game continued and minimized any damage the rookie can dish out with his legs. Knowshown Moreno was injured early, so Oakland lucked out not facing one of Denver’s most productive talents.

LINEBACKERS: A

Quentin Groves had his best game at linebacker all season. He was stellar in coverage, caging Moreno on a swing pass early in the 1^st quarter for no gain and then darting through the line of scrimmage late to take down Correll Buckhalter for a safety that increased the Raiders’ lead to 32-23. Roland McClain started at middle linebacker after being inactive last weekend, ending with four-solo tackles, including one for a loss. Kamerion Wimbley looked lost in coverage versus Ball on a pass that Tebow put right in the rusher’s breadbasket and should’ve been a score.

SECONDARY: B

Stanford Routt was Tebow’s target and the weak link during the contest. He just missed an interception on Tebow’s 33-yard scoring pass to Brandon Lloyd. Routt was also flagged for pass interference while working against Lloyd on a drive that ended with a Steven Hauschka 35-yard field goal to tie the game at 20. Tyvon Branch was busy, landing some big hits throughout the contest, stout in run support and active in blitzes. He ended with three tackles for losses.

SPECIAL TEAMS: A

On a muddy field, Sebastian Janikowski was perfect, hitting field goals of 49, 35 and 47-yards. He also punted for the first time in his career (33-yards), when Shane Lechler was shaken up in the 2^nd quarter. Of Lechler’s three punts, two of them landed inside the 20-yard line. Hiram Eugene was stellar on the coverage units; recovering a fumble and altering the direction of Denver return men. Sam Williams also accounted for a big hit on punt coverage. Nick Miller’s 22-yard punt return and personal foul on Richard Quinn on the same play set Oakland up at Denver’s 24-yard line for a drive that ended with a score.

COACHING: B

Tom Cable’s team went back-and-forth against a Denver club that was primed for an upset with a rookie quarterback at the helm. Eventually, the Raiders controlled the game and won a contest that was crucial for any playoff hopes. At home, you don’t want to flirt with disaster, but the defense really did not face any unanticipated schemes against the Broncos. After Tebow’s scoring run – Denver’s best punch – Oakland did not fear the Broncos’ offense. With no Moreno, they didn’t face much danger of a steady ground attack. Nine penalties, three turnovers and 2-for-11 on 3^rd downs usually spell disaster, but not today. Oakland was unwavering, scoring on three-straight possessions in the second half and exposing the inadequacies of Tebow at quarterback. The rookie did what he was asked to do – manage the contest. He was tough, bouncing off defenders and fighting for every yard. He was poised at times and lucky others. The Raiders were the better team, and it showed as the game wound down.

NOTES

The Oakland Raiders have outscored the Denver Broncos 98- 37 in 2010. The 98-points is more than any team has scored in a single season versus the same opponent since 1970. Oakland’s final totals versus their rival this year (two-games):

• Total yards – 1,010
• Rush yards – 592
• First downs – 49
• Rushing yards allowed – 181

Seymour did not finish the game due to a hamstring injury. Knowshon Moreno was held out for most of the game due to an injury to his side/rib area.

Oakland is now 5-0 within the AFC West for the first time since 1988.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

QUARTERBACK

Bruce Gradkowski – D

The fiery starter ended the contest 1-of-7 for 14-yards and a rating of 39.6. His lone positive was the first play from scrimmage when he connected with Zach Miller for 14-yards. Gradkowski was inaccurate all day, as evidenced by missing Darrius Heyward-Bey on a 2^nd and 4 and missing Johnnie Lee Higgins on a 3^rd and 6 in the 3^rd quarter. At that point, the tough passer attempted to spark the offense as he’s done in the past after going into the locker room for treatment for a shoulder injury. Shaun Phillips whacked Gradkowski at the end of the 1^st quarter on a play that was eventually ruled incomplete after the officials initially ruled it a fumble on the field.

Jason Campbell – B

Now we have a quarterback controversy for the Oakland Raiders. Campbell was 13-of-18 for 159-yards and one touchdown. His start was a little shaky with a near interception on a 2^nd and 8 by Antoine Cason. On the next play, Campbell scrambled out of bound on a 3^rd and 8. You even thought that Campbell might not have been ready for this relief appearance after he dumped a pass into the turf on a 2^nd and 14, when a Charger defender blew up his screen. But late in the 3^rd quarter, he conducted a 12-play 97-yard drive that ended in 1-yard touchdown toss to Miller, cutting the Chargers lead to 24-22. On that drive, Campbell hit Marcel Reece on a long toss that was ruled out of bounds, connected with Louis Murphy for a 58-yard gain and then capped of the possession by buying time for his tight end to get loose in the end zone. On the drive that Oakland took 28-27 lead late in the 4^th quarter, Campbell hit Miller for 9-yards on 2^nd and 9, tallied 13-more yards on a pass on 3^rd and 11 and then smoothly hooked up with Brandon Myers for 12-yards on a vital 4^th and 1. Gradkowski is fiery, undoubtedly gives life to this unit, but if he’s not healthy, those intangibles do not masquerade the deficiencies he has as a passer. If Gradkowski is not fully healed, Campbell has to be Oakland’s starter. “It definitely meant a lot, just seeing the guys on the sideline, how hard they were fighting,” said Campbell. “The one thing I said was, ‘You didn’t give up.’ And guys said maybe in years past they would have tucked it in, but this time they didn’t.”

RUNNING BACKS/FULL BACKS: B

Michael Bush had a workmanlike 26-carries for 104-yards. His touchdown run gave the Raiders the lead for good in the 4^th quarter and his 3 receptions for 31-yards helped move the chains and keep the Chargers’ linebackers at bay. Marcel Reece had another solid effort with 2-catches for 7-yards. He could’ve added a big gainer, but was nonchalant in his attempt to get both feet down near the sideline. The referees rightfully upheld the call and did not give Reece the reception, as there was no conclusive evidence showing that he indeed made that catch.

WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT END: C

Again this week, this grade was elevated by the exceptional play of Zach Miller. The wide receivers were non-existent, as Louis Murphy was the lone member of that unit to record any statistics. Myers’ only grab was a key 4^th down 12-yard catch. Miller held his own with 6-receptions for 62-yards. With Antonio Gates on the other side, Miller demonstrated that he is one of the elite tight ends in the league with key grabs on 3^rd down and fighting for every yard he amassed this afternoon. Jacoby Ford saved a possession with his fumble recovery after Miller got first down yardage with his catch.

OFFENSIVE LINE: C-

Oakland ran for 111-yards (3.7 per carry), The trenches allowed three sacks, but held up as the game wound down. It even looked like they wore down a fatigued Chargers front seven in the second half. Jared Veldheer and Mario Henderson again played the left tackle shuffle. Daniel Loper was flagged for a personal foul, but on a 3^rd and 6, he smartly pounced on a loose football and tried to roll forward for a 1^st down – ultimately gaining 5-yards on the play. Oakland’s line showed their toughness on a 4^th and 1 where Bush ran for 9-yards, but in other spots they were stonewalled on short distances. Khalif Barnes saw action at left guard when Loper went out and was flagged on a 3^rd and 2 for a false start.

DEFENSIVE LINE: B-

The maligned run defense held San Diego to 37-rushing yards at the half, and 91-yards total for the game. Richard Seymour dominated along the interior for much of the game, stuffing runs that came his way, chasing down ball carriers and making himself a nuisance when Philip Rivers dropped back to pass. Seymour’s tip at the line of scrimmage on 3^rd and 7 to end a San Diego drive in the 3^rd quarter gave Oakland momentum. Matt Shaughnessy was the unsung hero on this unit with his 2-tackles for losses and a sack. When Shaughnessy got to Rivers on a 2^nd and 7 and stripped him of the football, Oakland was hanging on and keeping the Chargers out of the end zone – San Diego’s second turnover in their red-zone of the contest. His edge control on runs was stellar at times.

LINEBACKERS: B-

Kamerion Wimbley was active as a cover-guy and a pass rusher. Yes, he did get beat by Gates for 23-yards on the opening play of San Diego’s drive that ended in a Mike Tolbert 4-yard run. But, when Oakland needed pressure, he was one of the linebackers that consistently got into the backfield, stuffing Legedu Naanee on an end around and drawing a holding flag on Brandyn Dombrowski at the end of the 2^nd quarter. Rolando McClain tallied 5-tackles and was far better in keeping running backs in front of him as they came out of the backfield. San Diego had far more success in the 1^st half hitting their rushers with short tosses than in the 2^nd half. Trevor Scott, starting his first game at linebacker in 2010, was strong versus the run and steady all afternoon on the weak side. Ricky Brown forced a fumble in the 1^st quarter near the goal line when San Diego was about to get into the end zone. His play thwarted an 11-play drive with Oakland up 12-0.

SECONDARY: D-

FS Hiram Eugene scores on special teams

Rivers torched this group for 431-yards on 27-of-42 completions and a rating of 114.3. His fearless attack was exceptional throughout the day, even going after Nnamdi Asomugha and succeeding, connecting with Malcolm Floyd on a 3^rd and 15 for 34-yards, as the Oakland cornerback also was tagged on the play for pass interference and again on another 15-yard route. “They did a good job of bringing some pressure and we tried to do some stuff to handle it, tried to get another completion or two to give ourselves the position to kick it, and they were able to make the plays to keep it out of the end zone, keep us from getting to where we needed to be,” Rivers said. Stanford Routt was Rivers’ target all day. Routt got burned on Floyd’s 55-yard grab and his 41-yard touchdown, which gave San Diego a 24-15 lead. Michael Huff struggled helping out deep on several plays, as wells as Tyvon Branch. Chris Johnson was given a chance to play against Gates on several occasions. Johnson was beaten by Floyd for 36-yards and was flagged 11-yards for a pass interference as time expired before the game clinching turnover. He was also flagged earlier for the same infraction on a 3^rd and 8. Mike Mitchell deserves a game-ball for the constant pressure he provided as a blitzer and the fine performance on Gates in the 4^th quarter.  Mitchell batted a Rivers toss away on a 3^rd and 5 intended for Gates. Routt had an interception ripped out of his hands by Patrick Crayton and had good coverage deep on Buster Davis on San Diego’s last drive. Branch’s fumble recovery and 64-yard dash to paydirt sealed Oakland’s victory. Huff needs to be credited on that play for getting to Rivers and forcing the turnover. “I knew I had to beat the one on one,” Huff said. “I had to beat Sproles. I did that and just got a hand up and luckily I hit his arm. Once I saw Tyvon running I knew he wasn’t going to get caught, so I started celebrating.” This group struggled in pass coverage all day against a top-notch passer, but ultimately, they played better when Oakland needed it most.

SPECIAL TEAMS: A

This is the group that helped Oakland build an early lead and kept them in the contest in the first half. Rock Cartwright was phenomenal with his block punt at the start of the contest that gave the Silver & Black a quick 2-0 lead. On the very next play, he wisely let the free kick bounce out of bound so Oakland can start their possession at midfield. Cartwright was in on numerous coverage tackles, helping to keep Darren Sproles in check for the entire afternoon. Nick Miller finally debuted on special teams; tallying 46-yards on his lone punt return. Brandon Myers blocked Oakland’s second punt, which bounced into the hands of Hiram Eugene at the five-yard line before he ran into the end zone to give the Raiders a 12-0 lead. John Fassel must have observed something this week in San Diego’s protection schemes that Oakland can take advantage of. Myers and Cartwright both bolted across the line of scrimmage from the same position for both blocks. Sebastian Janikowski was 2/2 with a long from 50-yards out and Shane Lechler averaged 52.8 yards per punt.

COACHING: B

Tom Cable had his group fighting till the end. The biggest tactical change Oakland had was late in the contest when it appeared that they blitzed Rivers on almost every down. After San Diego’s passer ripped apart the Raiders secondary all afternoon, John Marshall put him on the run in the 4^th quarter and got him to rush a few of his throws. The constant pressure in the final quarter ultimately led to the game’s biggest play. Hue Jackson had a nice mix of run and pass. Credit needs to be given, especially since his wide receivers have been silent and overwhelmed. Oakland became more efficient as the game wound down on 3^rd downs and the two 4^th down conversions were key. The 12-flags for 85-yards need to be fixed, but when you force three turnovers and get huge plays on special teams, it masquerades a lot of the faults this club had all afternoon. Fassel was outstanding in preparing his unit to play.

OTHER NOTES

• Sunday was the first time Oakland blocked two punts in a game since November 21, 1976 at Philadelphia.
• At the half, Oakland was completely dominated in the box score. San Diego had tallied 322-yards of total offense while Oakland had a diminutive 93-yards. San Diego had 17-first downs at the half, while Oakland had 4. Time of possession was also disparaging, with the Chargers leading that 20:59 to Oakland’s 9:01.
• Malcolm Floyd had a career game, posting 213-receiving yards on 8-catches and a score.
• Rivers  19-yard toss to Gates for a score was a laser that was snagged by the all-world tight end while two Raider defenders converged on him.
• Sam Williams penalty for running into the kicker on a 4^th and 2 in the second quarter revived a drive that ended in a Tolbert 4-yard touchdown run.
• Oakland’s win snaps a 13-game losing streak to San Diego, dating back to 9/28/2003. “That’s a heck of a team, and it’s been nemesis for a number of years, obviously dating back to 2003,” coach Tom Cable said. “They’ve been the champ. And if you ever want to be that, you’ve got to beat the champ. So it’s just a good win.”

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Nnamdi Asomugha has had his way with Andre Johnson

Houston Texans head coach Gary Kubiak confirmed Wednesday that star wide-out Andre Johnson would be a game time decision for Sunday’s match-up against the Oakland Raiders.

“I’m sure it’ll be a game-time decision,” said Kubiak. He added that Johnson is “sore,” and functioning as he did last week prior to their game.

Kubiak also talked about the Raiders and cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, stating, “This team poses matchup problems for us. I think they’re third in defense in the league right now. They’ve got a great corner, so obviously they can cause us problems.”

In Oakland’s last three contest against the Texans, Asomugha has held Johnson to five catches for 94-yards and no scores.

“I think he looked forward to it, prepared himself and I think the outcome showed that,” coach Tom Cable said about Asomugha’s match-up versus Larry Fitzgerald last week. “As we get ready to go with Houston now and Andre Johnson coming in here, then we’ll talk about that. But you’ve got to take your hat off to him.”

Kubiak is not looking past the Raiders and he will be relaying to his club that regardless of their 1-2 record, Oakland is a club that is playing a lot better than their record indicates.

“I think there’s two teams in this league that are in the top 10 offensively and defensively and they’re one of them,” Kubiak said. “That tells you how balanced they are and how well they’re playing.”

Langston Walker practiced on Wednesday, but had his right elbow wrapped. After the game in Arizona, I observed the right tackle getting his hand and elbow checked by a trainer.

Robert Gallery, Chaz Schilens and Richard Seymour were not at practice. WR Louis Murphy, CB Walter McFadden and S Hiram Eugene did not practice.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Safety Tyvon Branch (#33) will be looking to break out in 2010. An underrated player in the AFC, his tackling ability around the line of scrimmage and coverage skills has improved since entering the league. Oakland boasts a young and talented defensive backfield that will only get better with Branch’s maturity and will get more recognition as the defender makes a name for himself this season.

Rookie Jacoby Ford (#12) is fast – very fast. In college, he was dubbed the “fastest player on the East Coast,” an attribute that Oakland will put to the test on special teams and as a wide receiver this summer.

Jerome Boyd (#30), a one-time linebacker, will try to sneak onto the roster as a safety. While in college, he was a two-time Honorable mention All-Pac 10 (2007-2008). Boyd was clocked running a 4.33 in the 40-yard dash in Oregon. Hiram Eugene is most likely his obstacle for a roster spot.

Elliot Vallejo (#62) is a 6’7, 315 pound tackle, who was initially signed to the Raiders practice squad on December of 2009. Released a few days later that season, Oakland brought him back on June 8, 2010. The offensive line is a major question mark for the Silver & Black, but it is unlikely that Vallejo impacts that depth chart, unless he has an impressive summer and Tom Cable’s bunch suffers crippling injuries.

Yes, the above image is of Darrius Heyward-Bey attempting to snag a pass during drills. All reports have been good so far. But his rookie season was so bad; you may have to temper the enthusiasm until the 2^nd year pro actually sees live action in a regular season game. Heyward-Bey was so bad in 2010; any signs of improvement will be received with high praise.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Before he agreed to come back for one more year, the 29-year old signed a waiver to allow his participation during the off-season conditioning program.

Eugene has served in a back-up capacity for the most part, occasionally starting at free safety when Michael Huff was deemed ineffective in 2008. He originally signed as a un-drafted free agent in 2006 and gained his first extended action in 2007 at the ladder part of Stuart Schweigert’s career in Oakland.

He recorded his first career interception in Oakland’s 27-24 road victory in Pittsburgh last season.

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

Zach Miller hauled in a Charlie Frye pass for a score

QUARTERBACK:

Charlie Frye – A

Frye was gutsy during his performance, limping around till halftime and compiling 180-yards passing and 1 touchdown on 18-of-25. He led the Raiders to 191 total yards of offense. He knew were he wanted to go with the football giving his targets a chance to move the chains. Frye started Oakland’s third drive down 7-0 with a 15-yard pass to Chaz Schilens. A few plays later, he connected with Johnnie Lee Higgins for 16-yards and then on 3^rd and 7, he spun around and scrambled to free himself and hook up with Higgins for 16-yards. Oakland scored on that drive and cut into the Baltimore lead, 7-3. In the 2^nd quarter, he performed an outstanding play fake, turning his back to the defense and then hitting Higgins for 21-yards. Five plays later, he showed great touch lobbing a 12-yard pass to Zach Miller in the end zone. The score cut the Ravens lead to 14-10 and gave him his first touchdown pass since October of 2008.

JaMarcus Russell – C-

His insertion came with a chorus of boos, but often he was able to turn the jeers to cheers. On 2^nd and 7 on his first series, Russell scanned the field and then hit Schilens for 18-yards. On 2^nd and 8 in his second drive, Russell hit Louis Murphy in stride for 11-yards. And on 3^rd and 14 a few plays later, he rocketed a pass to Schilens for 17 yards. Oakland was able to cut into the Baltimore lead on that drive, 14-13. But then he unraveled at the end of the 3^rd quarter with a pivotal interception into the hands of linebacker Dannell Ellerbe, who ran it back 28-yards to the Oakland 22-yard line. A few plays later Willis McGahee tallied his third touchdown of the game to give the Ravens a 21-13 lead. It appeared Russell would shake off the turnover with completion of 18 yards and a 3^rd and 7 conversion to Murphy for 20-yards. But in Russell fashion, he coughed it up again when he did not feel the pressure on his backside and Antwan Barnes forced a fumble at the Baltimore 25-yard line.

RUNNING BACKS & FULLBACKS: D

Michael Bush was used as a battering ram against that stout Ravens rush defense. Problem was, he had no room to wiggle through and had little effectiveness throughout the afternoon. Bush ended with 10 carries for 18-yards. Darren McFadden did not fare better with 9 yards on 5-carries. He only paid dividends on a 2^nd and 8 in the 1^st quarter when he drew an illegal contact flag on Frank Walker split out wide as a receiver. McFadden did aide Frye on a scramble on 3^rd and 1, blocking defensive tackle Haloti Ngata at the 1^st down marker.

WIDE RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS: A

Chaz Schilens compiled 99-yards on 8 receptions. He had his best game of the season and provided one of the better highlights on Sunday jumping over former Raider Chris Carr on a 22-yard gain. Higgins closed the season on a high note as a receiver with 4 catches for 71-yards. Murphy had a career best 6 grabs for 59-yards. Zach Miller ended with 7 catches for 38-yards, including a solid route beating Ray Lewis into the end zone and leaping to haul in his third touchdown of the campaign.  Marcel Reece was used as a target and saw increased playing time in the finale.

OFFENSIVE LINE: D

They were not able to move the Ravens front seven and the running suffered with only 51-yards in the day. Baltimore compiled three sacks as well. Cornell Green added to his penalty resume with a ineligible man down the field infraction to open the game, a false start on 3^rd and 9 when Russell entered in the third quarter and another false start on the Raiders last offensive possession.

DEFENSIVE LINE: F

The Ravens ran for 240 yards. Baltimore’s offensive line controlled the line of scrimmage when they decided to run the ball consistently and stabilized a Raiders front four that can get to the passer. Jay Richardson chased down Joe Flacco as the passer got back to the line of scrimmage. Greg Ellis was quiet this afternoon and Richard Seymour had a few highlights, but not enough to significantly affect what the Ravens wanted to accomplish.

LINEBACKERS: D

It seemed like Kirk Morrison was out of position all day or being pushed around by Ravens’ linemen. He tallied a sack, but the linebacker was caught in pass coverage and his 9 solo tackles were not effective. Thomas Howard jarred a Ray Rice potential completion loose and Trevor Scott tallied another sack (7 for the season).

SECONDARY: B-

Mike Mitchell and Michael Huff shared a sack today

Nnamdi Asomugha shut down Derrick Mason. Asoomugha’s corner blitz on 3^rd and 8 forced Flacco into Morrison. Flacco ended with a meek 102 passing yards and Stanford Routt played solid for an inactive Chris Johnson. Routt’s lone blip was when he got beat by Mark Clayton on 3^rd and 5 for 7 yards with 5 minutes left in the game. Tyvon Branch had his moments, but he again at times was sub par in space. Branch was out of position on the Ravens big running plays. Mike Mitchell and Michael Huff shared a sack on 3^rd and 8 to end a Ravens drive in the final quarter. Hiram Eugene’s horrific attempt at a tackle sprung Willis McGahee for his 77-yard touchdown scamper. His high off-balance attempt was met with a stiff arm that left him in the turf.

SPECIAL TEAMS: C-

Sebastian Janikowski hit both of his field goals (37 and 39 yards). Shane Lechler capped off a solid campaign with 5-punts for an average of 52.4. But the coverage teams were bad; allowing 138-yards by Jalen Parmele including a 54-yard kickoff return to the Oakland 43-yard line that was a backbreaker after Oakland cut the lead to 14-10 (Brandon Myers missed tackle). Fortunately, the Ravens couldn’t score, as Billy Cundiff missed from 37-yards as time expired at intermission.

COACHING: B

John Marshall brought the heat on a few blitzes and it helped the Raiders corral the Ravens at times. Tom Cable tried to mix up the play calling with two reverses to Murphy that tallied 17-yards. And considering they played a solid defense that neutralized their running game, Oakland moved the ball well via the pass and gave themselves chances to stay close and possibly tie the game late. Cable’s team played well at home to close the season, and with little fan support due to an empty stadium, they tried their best to keep the ravens out of the playoffs.

GAME NOTES

• McGahee ended with 16 carries for 167 yards and 3 rushing scores. He had big runs all day; including a 36-yard scamper on 3^rd and 5 that ended any chance of a Raider comeback. That run was out of a spread formation and Oakland’s front seven was not able to seal the corner on the edge run. Ray Rice also was solid, compiling 70-yards on the ground. On his 27-yard rush, Kirk Morrison lost containment  and another run, Branch and Mitchell were caught inside with all the traffic.
• Russell ended his dreadful campaign 9/14 for 102 yards, one interception and a rating of 56.3.
• The loss extended the Raiders streak to seven straight seasons with 11 or more defeats in a campaign. That is a NFL worst.

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Bruce Gradkowski had the best statistical game for any Raider passer in a long time. His poise was stellar along with his ability to extend plays and make clutch throws in key spots. Oakland would have never won this game with JaMarcus Russell at the helm. Early on, Gradkowski missed an open Louis Murphy on a 3^rd and 3 that would’ve led to a big gain. But he bounced back from that on the next drive hitting Johnnie Lee Higgins on a 22-yard pass on 3^rd and 14 – the key play on a possession that ended with a field goal to cut the Pittsburgh lead to 10-6. Gradkowski ended the first half 7-of-9 for 86 yards. He opened the 2^nd half with a nice sidearm delivery to Zach Miller for 10-yards on a 3^rd and 8, and in the 4^th quarter, he moved the chains on a 3^rd and 3 scrambling for 8-yards. Oakland’s passer could’ve had at least 30-more yards rushing if not for infractions that negated some nice runs. He made a strong throw to Chaz Schilens for 17-yards with a lineman bearing down on him for a score that made it 13-10 with 8:21 remaining. The 75-yard bomb to Murphy was vital giving the Raiders a 20-17 lead with 5:28 left in the game. Then his passes to Higgins for 17-yards, Todd Watkins for 12-yards on 3^rd and 10, and Murphy for 19-yards marched the Silver & Black down the field as time expired. His final throw, an 11-yard game-winning touchdown pass to Murphy to cap the frantic 4^th quarter became the best moment for Oakland in 2009. His final numbers: 20/33 for 308 yards and 3 touchdowns.

RUNNING BACKS & FULLBACKS: C+

Justin Fargas led the team with 15 carries for 63-yards. He kept the Steelers’ defense honest, but was not a major factor in Oakland moving the ball when they needed it most. Darren McFadden had a key run on 3^rd and 2 in the final quarter, darting for 6-yards on a pitch near the end of a drive in which the Raiders took the lead. He ended with 9 rushes for 25 yards. Michael Bush was a non-factor with one-carry for one yard and making a cameo as a passer on a toss in which he overthrew a wide-open Schilens. Luke Lawton was flagged for a false start to start a drive deep in their own territory.

WIDE RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS: A

The receivers had their best game of the season, without the presence of rookie Darrius Heyward-Bey – out with a foot injury. Murphy shined when it mattered most with 4-catches for 128 yards and two touchdowns. He had his best game as a pro and could’ve had another big gainer after beating William Gay on a slant and go route on the first play of the 2^nd quarter, but Gradkowski overthrew him. He torched Ike Taylor for the 75-yard touchdown and tiptoed his way into the end zone the last 5-yards. Higgins made his first sizeable contribution to this team in 2009. He had 4 receptions for 63-yards. Schilens also keyed the huge 4^th quarter with his scoring grab; ending the game with 45-yards on 3 catches. Zach Miller continued his solid play with 43 yards receiving.

OFFENSIVE LINE: B-

Samson Satele was injured, did not return to the line-up and was replaced by Chris Morris. Robert Gallery injured his back and was replaced by Langston Walker. Oakland as a team ran for 109-yards – a win considering that Pittsburgh is the toughest team in the league statistically to run against. They allowed only 2-sacks, keeping Gradkowski’s jersey clean for most of the day, but the passer’s legs were the main reason Oakland was able to extend plays. Mario Henderson was flagged for a hold on a Gradkowski 20-yard scramble.

DEFENSIVE LINE: B-

Yes, they allowed 132-yards on the ground. But the defensive line was stout during some stretches and if you take away Rashard Mendenhall’s 60-yard scamper, the run defense would’ve had one of their best games of the season. They missed Greg Ellis’ pass rushing abilities, but they were able to keep Ben Roethlisberger moving out of the pocket. Pittsburgh’s passer is always dangerous on the run and he showed at times what he could do when improvising. A key play for this unit was a 4^th and 1 with their backs to the end zone at the 5-yard line, stuffing Big Ben on a sneak and keeping vital Pittsburgh points off the scoreboard. Richard Seymour was flagged for an illegal hands to the face.

LINEBACKERS: B

Trevor Scott recorded the Raiders only sack of the game. Kirk Morrison finished with 7-tackles. Thomas Howard played decently in his first start as a strong-side linebacker. At times, this unit was late on their assignment on shallower routes when they were in zones, but overall, they played well enough to keep the integrity of the defense on run and pass plays near the line of scrimmage. Scott’s sack was imperative on 3^rd and 6 at the end of the 3^rd quarter, as it was a 9-yard loss for the Steelers and forced Jeff Reed into a 53-yard field goal attempt  that he missed, keeping another three-points off the board for Pittsburgh.

SECONDARY: C-

Santonio Holmes had a career game (8 rec. 149 yards 1 TD). And far too often, this group either had a blown tackle or a missed assignment. Chris Johnson almost had an interception on a 3^rd and 11 early in the contest. On Holmes score, Tyvon Branch and Johnson were beat on the corner route. The previous play, Branch was beaten by Hines Ward for 27-yards on a post pattern. Branch (11 tackles) was taken advantage of in coverage, but was at his best as the last line of defense on run pays and around the line of scrimmage. Johnson had a case for a illegal hands to the face/facemask penalty on Hines Ward during his 11-yard scoring reception that made it 24-20 Pittsburgh with 3:32 remaining. Michael Huff broke up several plays with big hits as the ball approached the intended receiver. Hiram Eugene’s first interception of the season was a stellar grab in the end zone as time expired in the first half. That was the only turnover in the game and it was another play that kept points off the board for the Steelers. Roethlisberger’s throw to Holmes for 57-yards in the 4^th quarter was precise and over the head of Stanford Routt – Branch made the touchdown saving tackle.

SPECIAL TEAMS: C-

Stefan Logan’s 83-yard kickoff return to open the game startled the Raiders. But Oakland’s defense kept the Steelers out of the end zone. Logan had another solid return later in the game for 37-yards to set-up a Pittsburgh possession at their own 40. Sebastian Janikowski nailed both of his field goal attempts (48 and 43 yards) in a tough outdoor stadium to kick in. Shane Lechler had 6-punts, averaging 46.8 per. Gary Russell had one of his better games with 72-yards worth of kickoff returns.

COACHING: B

Tom Cable got a little mischievous in opening the playbook. Bush’s halfback pass was on a 3^rd and 8 – a risky play – considering the field position they had. Ultimately they scored on that drive, but not the player you want passing the ball against a defense that likes to bring pressure. In their opening drive of the second half, Cable called for more trickery on a hand off to McFadden, which he lateral back to Gradkowski and wound up losing 16-yards. The passing plays called were aided by Gradkowski’s improvising, but Cable did make the right calls during that scoring outburst in the final quarter. Something he would have never been able to relay to Russell if he was in the game. The Raiders scored 21-points in the 4^th quarter – a stunning development considering their woes on offense late in games. And after disheartening drives by the home team, Oakland answered with big plays of their own – a credit to the coaching staff keeping the morale of this team up in a tough stadium to play in, on a cold day versus a team playing for their playoff lives. John Marshall’s bunch blitzed today from all the levels of their defense and gave the Steelers’ offense all they could handle. The defense played a solid game into the 2^nd half until the madness begun and both teams started exploding in the waning moments.