Silver and Black Report

Here’s a list of Oakland Raiders that will be free agents this off-season with an explanation of their status after the 2011 season.

UFA: Unrestricted free agent; a player who has completed four or more accrued seasons and whose contract has expired.

RFA: Restricted free agent; a player who has completed three accrued seasons and whose contract has expired.

OFFENSE

• Jason Campbell QB – UFA
• Khalif Barnes T – UFA
• Kyle Boller QB – UFA
• Michael Bush RB – UFA
• Rock Cartwright RB – UFA
• Stephon Heyer OL – UFA
• T.J. Houshmanzadeh WR – UFA
• Marcel Reece FB — UFA
• Samson Satele C – UFA
• Chaz Schilens WR – UFA

DEFENSE

• Darryl Blackstock LB – UFA
• Desmond Bryant DL – RFA
• Tyvon Branch SS – UFA
• Matt Giordano – UFA
• Quentin Groves LB – UFA
• Jarvis Moss DE – UFA
• Trevor Scott DE – UFA
• Lito Sheppard – UFA

SPECIAL TEAMS

• Jon Condo LS – UFA
• Bryan McCann – UFA

OFFENSE ANALYSIS

Undoubtedly, Campbell would like to be a starter and probably feels like he can lead a team. But those chances went down the drain in Oakland when he got injured and Carson Palmer was acquired. The problem for Campbell is that there may not be many jobs for him available. Very few teams are starving for a starter. Miami may be happy with Matt Moore, or they could passer in the draft, Cleveland is going with Colt McCoy, the Chiefs may be in the market for a new face, a return to the Redskins won’t be an option and Seattle, who may look for a quarterback, may look at Vince Young, Matt Flynn or Kyle Orton. A back-up role is his destiny, but where? In Oakland where Jackson showed confidence in him prior to his injury, or elsewhere where he could sneak up on a passer that may be on shaky ground?

Keeping Bush will be imperative. Spending big bucks on running backs isn’t the norm in the NFL, but the former 4^th round pick has little wear and tear on his body, is young and versatile enough to add some pop to any club lacking a ground attack. Oakland would have been in serious trouble if not for Bush’s presence. With questions surrounding Darren McFadden’s durability, the Raiders need to keep this tandem together. A franchise tag for Bush could be an option, especially if they fear he will depart to another club that could front-load a contract for his services.

Reece is a multi-dimensional weapon, out of the backfield or split out wide as a receiver. He is a match-up nightmare that Jackson cannot afford to lose.

Barnes was the weak-link on a very good offensive line this past season. But keeping cohesion in this group will be key. He’ll come cheap, so unless the Raiders are looking for a major upgrade, there’s no way he goes anywhere. Heyer was a serviceable back up, so unless someone showers him with a big contract or a starting role, which is unlikely, Oakland could retain his services. Satele was tough, played injured and gained the respect of Jackson throughout the campaign. That may be enough for him to be retained and keep the powerful left side in tact.

Boller will move on, especially if Campbell is retained. Terrelle Pryor will be third on the depth chart until further notice.

Houshmanzadeh or Schilens will move on. One has the full support of Palmer; the other is young and has a history of injuries, which will dampen interest league wide. If Hue Jackson thinks Houshmanzadeh has anything left in the tank, he’ll be retained.

SPECIAL TEAMS ANALYSIS

Jon Condo will be retained and paid well. Oakland tends to compensate their specialists and breaking up the dynamic kicking and long-snapping trio wouldn’t make sense. Cartwright is a emotional leader and a special teams ace. How much will they value that, especially with Hiram Eugene coming back in 2012?

DEFENSE ANALYSIS

Branch may draw enough interest league wide which could land him a contract big enough that would force Oakland to let him walk. He has youth on his side and is very versatile. The former 4^th round pick could be enticed away by a team in need of starting strong safety.

Chuck Bresnahan was a major reason why Blackstock was brought in. Good on special teams and there for depth, we’ll see if his fate is tied together with Bresnahan’s.

Groves has already mentioned the possibility of him playing elsewhere. Aaron Curry took his job and at this point, Oakland sees him as a one-way player on special teams. With Matt Shaughnessy’s return, it’s unlikely that Jarvis Moss returns, especially if they opt for other choices at end. They’ll likely pick between Moss and Trevor Scott. Scott is more versatile, but the injury he sustained in 2010 made him a non-factor in 2011. A change in defensive alignment could also sway which one stays.

Bryant has developed into a serviceable lineman in a rotation. Some team may be intrigued by his abilities, and if he gets a decent offer, the defender will depart.

Sheppard was picked up mid-season and will not be welcomed back. Especially with Michael Huff moving to cornerback and other youthful options at defensive back.

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SBReport.net will take a look at the best and worst moments for the 2011 Oakland Raiders; including top plays, standout players and performances, and a lot more…

MVP (On Offense)

Michael Bush, RB

Why Bush? If not for his 977-yards rushing, 418-receiving and eight total scores, Oakland would have been in deep trouble. Yes, Darren McFadden is their most dynamic player and a superstar-type talent, but he missed the entire second half and if not for depth at that position, the Raiders offense would have been stagnant. That’s why both need to be kept together.

Honorable Mention: Jared Veldheer, LT – He faced Jared Allen, Tamba Hali twice, Julius Peppers, Elvis Dumervil twice, Andre Carter, Cameron Wake in a season of growth and maturity into one of the better young left tackles in the league.

MVP (On Defense)

Tommy Kelly, DT

I felt he had a better overall season than Richard Seymour and got slighted in the Pro Bowl selection process. He had 7.5 sacks and was steadier game in and game out.

Honorable Mention: Tyvon Branch, SS – Improved his coverage skills greatly and continued to be stout when placed around the line of scrimmage. Now, it’s time for a payday.

MVP (Special Teams)

Sebastian Janikowski, PK

He altered the look of the offense. When other teams opt to punt, Oakland strolls out their powerful kicker. With a better defense, imagine if the Raiders offense didn’t feel the stress of going long-distances on drives with Janikowski on their side.

BEST COACH

Bob Wylie

Veldheer became an anchor and Samson Satele has proven to be reliable and durable. Stefen Wisniewski did not play like a rookie and the right side, which was a major question mark coming into the season, held their own. With a top ranked running game and very few sacks allowed, Wylie easily was Oakland’s most valuable staffer.

MOST IMPROVED (On Offense)

Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR

In a landslide… the maligned target ended with 64-receptions for 975-yards and four scores.

MOST IMPROVED (On Defense)

This award will not be given to anyone.

BEST ROOKIE

Denarius Moore, WR

A true play-maker who can stretch the field… and he was drafted in what round?

PLAYERS WHO DISAPPOINTED…

Lamarr Houston trying to amp-up the crowd vs. the Chargers.

Kamerion Wimbley, LB – Only had seven sacks, but four of them were in one game versus the Chargers. If he’s going to be out there, Oakland needs him to be a menace pass rushing and not caught in bad match-ups with the likes of Antonio Gates.

Rolando McClain, LB – An arrest, very few impact plays at middle linebacker… if he wouldn’t had the off-field issues, it could’ve been easier to ship the talent who may need a new start elsewhere.

Lamarr Houston, DE – Only one-sack for the second year pro.

CLASSIEST RAIDERS

Quentin Groves, LB – Moved out of the starting line-up when Aaron Curry was acquired, the linebacker got on special teams and played well.

Jason Campbell, QB – At the beginning of the season, it appeared that the stars were aligned for Campbell – team on the rise, he’s at the helm playing well, at the end of a contract. Now, he may not have many options in the market to start and may have to settle on being Carson Palmer’s back up.

PLAYER MISSED THE MOST… (due to injury)

Matt Shaughnessy, DE – He has a motor, can bring the heat and is a solid edge defender. It could’ve helped.

PLAYER MISSED THE MOST… (due to departure)

Nnamdi Asomugha, CB – Boy, did that secondary need someone opposing passers feared.

PLAYER WHO NEEDS TO BE INCORPORATED MORE…

Kevin Boss, TE – They are paying him well for only 39-targets, 28 catches for 368-yards and three touchdowns. Oakland’s offense also features a very good receiving fullback (Marcel Reece) and with all the youth at receiver and rushers than can also be threats as pass-catchers, its easy to forget about Boss.

MOST OVERRATED (on offense)

Jacoby Ford, WR

Injuries slowed him, but he rarely showed any of the glimpses we saw in his rookie season.

MOST OVERRATED (on defense)

Matt Giordano, FS

Yes, he led the team with five interceptions, but many of them were in the ‘right at him’ category. Too many times he took horrible angles in run support and missed on tackles to spring running backs for bigger gains.

Honorable Mention: Stanford Routt, CB – How many times did he get flagged? Teams were not afraid to go after him – not what you want out of a top-paid cornerback.

BEST MOMENTS

Tommy Kelly, Jarvis Moss & the rest of the defense had fun bullying Mark Sanchez.

• Rallying versus the Texans on the weekend of Al Davis’ passing – On a emotional afternoon, with heavy hearts, Oakland overcame a deficit and held on late, on the game’s final play to win their first game without the legendary owner.
• Bullying the Jets in front of the ‘Black Hole’ – They ran for 234-yards, beat up Mark Sanchez and enjoyed a 34-24 victory against a top team.
• John Madden lighting up the torch – It was the Raiders first game at home without Davis, and during halftime, the coach who made his mark with the Silver & Black, lit up a cauldron during a ceremony to remember his life.
• Winning three in a row and getting to 7-4 in late November.
• The Raider fans selling out all eight home games.

WORST MOMENTS

• Al Davis Dying – It’s still unimaginable that the man synonymous with the Silver & Black will no longer be with us.
• Second-Half vs. Bills – Ryan Fitzpatrick torched Oakland, as Buffalo scored at will on every possession in the second half. One stop by the defense, and the Raiders could’ve had another win.
• Chiefs Stomping – Losing to the Chiefs is always painful for the Raiders. But getting trounced at home 28-0 was just embarrassing.
• Losing four out of their last five games to end the season, including an embarrassing collapse against the Lions and the disastrous finale versus the Chargers.

BEST PLAYS

• Janikowski’s 63-yard field goal versus Denver – Tied for the league’s longest kick and gave the Raiders a 16-3 halftime lead. Oh, Janikowski didn’t really hit it cleanly.
• Moore’s 50-yard TD catch in Buffalo – That gave Oakland a 35-31 lead late in the fourth quarter. The Bills eventually won, 38-35.
• Huff’s INT versus Houston – The free-safety sealed the game with his interception, as time expired, and with the Raiders one-man short.
• Lechler’s TD – Oakland went up 24-7 against the Browns when Shane Lechler connected with Kevin Boss for a 35-yard score, off a fake field goal.
• Heyward-Bey’s 53-yard catch to set up the game winning field goal in overtime against the Chiefs.

BEST INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCES

• Wimbley’s sack parade vs. the Chargers.
• Carson Palmer’s 14-20 for 299 and 2 scores against the Chargers.
• McFadden’s 171-yards rushing vs. the Jets.
• Michael Bush’s record breaking night against San Diego.
• Janikowski’s six field goals vs. the Bears.

BEST PASS BY A NON-QB

Shane Lechler’s TD to Kevin Boss.

WORST PASSES BY A QB

How many did Kyle Boller attempt vs. the Chiefs?

MID-SEASON ACQUISITION THAT WILL STICK AROUND…

Aaron Curry

MID-SEASON ACQUISITIONS THAT WILL NOT STICK AROUND…

Lito Sheppard

BEST QUOTE

“I’m watching [the] History Channel and Fox Sports Soccer.” – Tommy Kelly after being eliminated and asked if he would watch the playoffs.

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Hue Jackson had his final Monday press conference after their tough home defeat at the hands of the San Diego Chargers. Instead of preparing for a playoff contest, the Oakland Raiders were cleaning out their lockers and wrapping up their 2011 campaign at the headquarters.

Here are some tidbits from Jackson’s talk with the media:

On his message to the team on their way out:

“That as a Raider, you’re expected to win. And 8-8 is not where we want to be and I don’t want to use the old coaches’ cliché — you look at the wins you possibly could have won, and you didn’t. To me, that’s just…you’re setting yourself up again to be able to say, hey look, if we did this, we’d be here, you did that, you’d be there. You didn’t. At the end of the day, you didn’t win those games. We got what we earned. We’re 8-8, we’re a .500 football team for the second year in a row and, that’s disappointing. But the guys that come back here, that get ready for the off-season program, they’re going to buy in…all the way to what it is that we’re selling. Because we’re going to win a championship here, and that’s what I told them. And if you don’t feel comfortable at the way I think you’ve got to buy in, then maybe this is not the right place for you.”

ANALYSIS: Good to hear Jackson admit that this was a disappointment, because he was the first one to talk up his club early in the season, saying they would become bullies and that they had untapped potential. Eight wins again equates to a disappointing season, especially when they were at 7-4 in late November.

Looking back at missed chances:

“I mean, I can go all the way back to Buffalo, I can go back to Denver here, I can go back to the Detroit game. I can go back to the game yesterday. And where we had opportunities and we didn’t make the most of them.”

ANALYSIS: Those three particular games, I talked about being integral losses that could have shifted the outcome within the division. Coincidentally, all three were games that either defense never made a stand late or collapsed entirely.

On Chuck Bresnahan’s defense:

“It’s unacceptable.”

ANALYSIS: You now he wasn’t going to say much. If Al Davis were around, he would’ve never blasted his players publicly, or he would’ve heard from the man in-charge. Like Davis though, I don’t think the Raiders will ever feel obligated to make moves just because of public backlash, or because of what the perceived timing of it should be. In Oakland, things have always been done at their own pace. This is black Monday around the league, if things were a tad different and that defense was really “unacceptable,” the front office should’ve made a move. So now we wait… for an announcement, or no announcement because Bresnahan is under contract.

He added about staff changes: “Well, I haven’t sat through it all, but obviously I’m going to meet with everybody here soon and we’re going to go from there.”

On possible general manager hiring:

“But I would hope that as the head coach of this football team I would hope that the organization understands that I have a pretty good idea of where we need to go. Because if not, then I shouldn’t be where I’m sitting. So at the end of the day, I think I have a pretty good idea now that I’ve been through this for a year, and have done it, be it coaching, be it all kind of sort of different hats and duties, dealing with you all, and everybody, I think I know exactly what this team needs to do and how they need to do it. That’s the fun part of it.”

ANALYSIS: Jackson is already posturing and positioning himself for whoever comes in. I’m sure he would like help and a staffer to deal with the contracts and other vital behind the scene things needed to be in personnel, but he wants some sort of power and depending on whom Oakland selects, it could shift the balance of powers. I’m sure he wants to be involved in the process to ensure he can have a working relationship with the general manager, and maybe even have some influence on them.

Jackson added: “I don’t know that. But I don’t think it’d be awkward. I’m pretty comfortable with who I am and what I am. I’m not gonna get caught up in who we hire and who we bring in here. I know how that works. I know when people mention that, ‘well, if they hire a GM then he’s gonna want to bring in his own head coach.’ And hey, if that’s what Mark decided to do, that’s his right. I don’t think that that’s the case, but that is his right. But at the end of the day, whoever comes here, I think it’s gonna be somebody who wants to share the same vision as a I do, which is winning a championship, which is getting the organization back to being better than average. Because we should be, and we can be.”

On Carson Palmer and Jason Campbell’s future:

“I think, obviously, he has some strong characteristics throwing the ball. I mean, he’s proven that. I think he’s disproved all the issues with his arm. I don’t think anybody can bring those subjects up anymore. I think that Carson needs a strong off-season, with his teammates, with the players, training camp and then let’s see what he can be then. Am I tied to him? Well, I made the decision, so I guess I am. You know? He’s one of our quarterbacks. But by no means do I say, hey, Jason Campbell doesn’t haven’t an opportunity to be here, too. That decision has not been made. I have a strong feeling about Jason Campbell, and I think you guys all know that. I mean, my doing that, I know everybody sees it as maybe it was a slap to Jason. It wasn’t. I owe this team the best opportunity to win, and this organization the best opportunity to win. That’s why I did what I did. And at the end of the day, I’m not gonna run from that.”

ANALYSIS: Jackson’s tenure will be defined by how the Palmer trade works out – they are tied at the hip. There’s no denying that. As for Campbell, it would be ideal to keep him, as he’ll be the perfect back-up; he has strong work ethic, knows the system and has cohesion with the unit. Problem is, does he still think he can be a starter elsewhere, and would he accepted a demotion and lesser money than what he think he could make. There aren’t many starting openings in the NFL, so anywhere he goes, he’ll surely be a backup who may have a shot with a passer on a short leash. But otherwise, with Kyle Orton out there, Vince Young and now Matt Flynn, who could be a hot name; Campbell may not be a commodity in the open market.

On Darren McFadden’s injury and the effect:

“You have always put everything into the evaluation. Darren is under contract and all those things will take care of themselves. But it has taught me that you always have to have – whether it be at the quarterback position, the running back position of the receiver position — a very capable No. 2. And obviously Michael Bush was.”

ANALYSIS: Easily shows that the Raiders don’t plan on letting Bush walk away – nor they shouldn’t.

On Tyvon Branch’s possible free-agency:

“Very, because I think he’s one of the young, talented players on our team. I think he has a bright future ahead of himself. Any guy that’s back there that we deem, the organization deems, is a Raider and that plays the way we want them to play, we want to get under contract and get back here in a uniform. He’s definitely one of those guys.”

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SBReport.net wishes everyone a festive evening and a Happy New Year. As we sign out 2011, we bring in a new year with some resolutions for the Oakland Raiders:

Kyle Boller, QB

As soon as Jason Campbell was lost for the season, Oakland pulled the trigger on the Carson Palmer deal. Boller, who started the Raiders first game right after, bombed with three interceptions in the first half versus the Chiefs and never saw action again in 2011.

Resolution: To find a way to obtain the trust of any team as a back-up quarterback.

Kevin Boss, TE

After back-to-back 500 yard-plus seasons with the New York Giants, the tight end, who inked a deal with $8 million in guarantees, has had his number of targets and touches go down dramatically in this wide-receiver friendly system that also have dangerous pass catchers out of the backfield.

Resolution: Boss will draw-up a few more plays himself and sneak them into Hue Jackson’s playbook.

Tyvon Branch, SS

The starting string safety was named a Pro-Bowl alternate this week after a solid campaign.

Resolution: More impact plays in 2012 to ensure he gets the attention needed to make it to Hawaii.

The Oakland Front Office

Resolution: Find a general manager to work in cohesion with Hue Jackson.

Michael Bush, RB

He has compiled 1,316 total yards from scrimmage this year – not too shabby for a back up.

Resolution: To get a big payday. After injuries derailed his final season at Louisville, the rusher missed at a chance of going higher in the draft and earning a lot more money.

Jason Campbell, QB

He was Jackson’s quarterback till the injury. Now, with Palmer in the mix, if he wants to start, Campbell will have to go elsewhere.

Resolution: To find a team that desperately needs a quarterback. There aren’t many options and with Vince Young and Kyle Orton out there, it will be very difficult for Campbell to realistically start anywhere.

Aaron Curry, LB

Resolution: To fulfill his high draft-day expectations as a member of the Silver & Black after Seattle gave up on his career.

Jacoby Ford, WR

Resolution: Better conditioning on those lower extremities. A quad injury, hamstring issues and a foot ailment have been some of things the second year talent had dealt with in 2011.

Matt Giordano, S

Resolution: To parlay this solid campaign in Oakland into a multi-year deal.

Tommy Kelly, DT

Resolution: To make the Pro Bowl in 2012.

Rolando McClain, LB

Last year’s resolution: “To land jaw-dropping hits on opponents that weigh over 190 pounds and leave his impression on the Raider defense.

Resolution: See above. Oh, and stay out of the police blotter.

Darren McFadden, RB

Resolution: Play 16-games!

Carson Palmer, QB

Resolution: Regain his form with a full camp and pre-season – he’s not that far away.

Stanford Routt, CB

Resolution: To cut down on the flags… then we’ll hear talk about him being one of the AFC’s top cornerbacks.

Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR

Our resolution last year for him was: “To break the 50-catch mark in 2011. Thirty-five career catches for a seventh overall selection – the letters B.U.S.T are ominous.” Well, mission accomplished.

Resolution: To become the ‘go-to guy’ in Oakland and turn into a versatile pass catcher on short and deep routes.

Chaz Schilens, WR

Resolution: To bottle-up whatever he took prior to the season and give it to McFadden and Ford. Schilens’ 2011 was not decimated by injuries.

Jared Veldheer, LT and Stefen Wisniewski, LG

Resolution: To get to Hawaii as a tandem.

Kamerion Wimbley, LB

Resolution: More sacks against teams not named the San Diego Chargers.

Here are last year’s resolutions for Campbell, DHB, McClain, Veldheer and others:

Oakland Raiders: New Year’s resolutions for 2011

Not bad, huh?

Happy New Year to everyone in the Raider Nation!

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To everyone in the Raider Nation – enjoy a safe and prosperous Holiday Season with best wishes for the New Year. Since this is the season of giving, SBReport.net will hand out presents to a few Oakland Raiders:

Kevin Boss, TE

A few more plays in the weekly game plan: After back-to-back 500 yard-plus seasons with the New York Giants, the tight end, who inked a deal with $8 million in guarantees, has had his number of targets and touches go down dramatically in this wide-receiver friendly system that also have dangerous pass catchers out of the backfield.

Tyvon Branch, SS

Strong Pro Bowl consideration: Always known to be one of the more talented young strong safeties in the conference, Branch has put it all together in 2011.

Michael Bush, RB

A strong finish to the season: Darren McFadden’s injury showcased him to the league and now, he can go into the free-agent waters if he chooses to and land a nice deal. Rushers usually don’t get loads of money thrown at them, but he’s very young, does not have a lot of wear and tear and already knows how to share a backfield with another ball carrier. If Oakland does not place a tag on him, he’ll be a sought after player.

Bruce Campbell, OL

I’m sure he’ll love if Santa found a way to get him off the inactive list.

Jason Campbell, QB

A good home in 2012: Campbell was in and out of the line-up last year when Bruce Gradkowski was around. This year, the job was his and the team was rolling before his injury. Now, with Carson Palmer around and Terrelle Pryor looming, he may have to shop himself around in the off-seaosn. Campbell is a hard worker, very classy and a pros pro.

Aaron Curry, LB

More running backs and quarterbacks to hunt down: One of the better additions to this club, who looks to have found his niche in Silver & Black.

Jacoby Ford, WR/KR

Healthy set of legs: a quad injury, hamstring issues and a foot ailment have been some of things the second year talent had dealt with in 2011.

Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR

A bullhorn: DHB is not a diva and has worked hard to shed the image of being a one-trick pony. He’s become a more complete wide-receiver, but you’ll never here him say, “I told you so.”

T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR

Gift Cards: For him to give to Hue Jackson and Carson Palmer – as they are the main reasons he has a roster spot.

Sebastian Janikowski, PK

Another 10-more attempts from 63+ yards out: The only kicker in league history that is expected to nail those lengthy field goals. He deserves to stand alone atop the record book for longest field goal made.

Shane Lechler, P

A tire swing for his backyard: He should practice his accuracy and sell himself as a passer for his final few years. Lecler’s spiral is tight, but…

Rolando McClain, LB

A new P.R. person: I’m sure whoever had that job this season had nightmares after McClain displayed his pearly whites while being handled by officers.

Darren McFadden, RB

Healing Pills and Wolverine like armor: Oakland would surely love to have him for the final weekend and a possible playoff run. Questions about his fragility will always be asked, so some sort of mutant-like armor would be very useful for the rest of his career.

Carson Palmer, QB

An entire off-season worth of workouts with the team: He’ll get that this time around and then we’ll be able to access the trade a tad better in the coming years.

Richard Seymour, DT

Manny Pacquiao’s hand-speed: Next time he clobbers someone, maybe he’ll do it fast enough where no one will see it. Then, he can avoid being booted from a game.

Jared Veldheer, LT

Suntan lotion: He’ll be going to many Pro-Bowls in his career.

Trevor Scott, DE

A compass: So he can find his way back. Since his injury in 2010, we haven’t seen the same explosiveness or fire.

Hue Jackson, Coach

A penalty box: Maybe he can put his players in it if they keep on accumulating flag after flag like it’s going out of style.

John Fassel, Special Teams Coach

A pencil and a pad: No one draws up fakes or other plays on special teams like he has the last few years. One of the more underrated unit coaches in the league.

Sanjay Lal, Wide Receiver coach

Acknowledgment: DHB, Ford, and Moore… he’s worked with a lot of young targets and they are coming along nicely.

Tommy Kelly, DT

Podium: No other Raider provides better quotes.

The Raider Nation

A playoff berth: Boy, do you guys really deserve it.
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Tyvon Branch tallied his first sack of the season versus the Chicago Bears.

The NFL came down on Richard Seymour, imposing a $30,000 fine on the defensive tackle for his actions during last weekend’s game versus the Miami Dolphins.

Seymour was ejected after punching lineman Richie Incognito – his third ejection in as many years. The Oakland Raiders acquired Seymour prior to the 2009 season, and he was fined $10,000 and booted from a game against the Cleveland Browns that campaign. Last season, he was tossed when he went after Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and eventually fined $25,000.

Hue Jackson was frustrated with Richard Seymour‘s ejection last weekend, stating, “I told him he can’t get kicked out of the game, he’s one of the rocks on this football team.”

This week, defensive coordinator Chuck Bresnahan talked up his strong safety and his place among other strong safeties in the conference.

“Tyvon [Branch] is, in my mind, a Pro Bowl player, without a doubt,” Raiders Bresnahan commented. “This is a guy who, every game, he comes with his ‘A’ game. Effort wise, tenacity wise, playing physical and doing what you ask him to do. And we do move him around.”

Branch leads the team in tackles (88), has one interception and one fumble recovery in 2011. He recorded his first sack of the season two-weeks ago versus the Chicago Bears, but what goes unnoticed is his versatility and the diverse way Bresnahan uses him throughout the formation.

Bresnahan stated: “He plays safety in base, he plays nickel in nickel, he plays in a corner position in our big package against big personnel. He does anything we ask him. He never says a word. He comes out and practices a thousand miles-an-hour every day at practice.”

For Branch, pro-bowl talk is nice, but there’s only one objective in his mind right now, “Man, I just want to get to the playoffs,” Branch said. “That’s what I tell people. I’m doing my part to try to get us to the playoffs. And whatever comes of that, it just happens.”

Oakland will have their walk-thru today outside to get acclimated to the weather in Green Bay.

“We’re not going to worry about the elements,” Jackson said. “We’re a weather-proof football team. Snow, rain, hot cold, we got to play. That’s just the way it goes.”

Bresnahan realizes the importance of the Oakland run game this weekend, as it pertains to his defenses’ ability to stop the Packers. “You’re not going to eliminate the plays in this game but you have to minimize them and keep it within a good realm of keeping in our offense in the game, and then we got to limit their series,” Bresnahan said. “The best way to keep guys like that out of the end zone is to keep them on the sideline.”

Jason Campbell is rehabilitating his broken right collarbone, and could be ready for more extensive team workouts in the coming weeks. “I have a plan for Jason, and we’ll just continue to exercise that,” Jackson said. “I knew it could be a little bit longer than what everybody thought, and it has taken some time, but that’s OK. We’re in pretty good shape as far as that’s concerned, so we’ll just continue to move forward and stick with the plan that way.”

The Packers will be without running back James Starks [ankle] and linebacker Desmond Bishop [calf]. Guard Josh Sitton will also be deactivated on Sunday.

Charles Woodson will play, and the status of linebacker A.J Hawk could be unclear till tomorrow morning.

Click on this link to follow Victor Cotto on Twitter and get up to date news, updates & thoughts on the Silver & Black.

It was a typical Wednesday for the Oakland Raiders…

Which meant that many of their key cogs were sidelined during practice.

On offense, running back Darren McFadden [foot] was missing in action once again, along with unit mate Taiwan Jones [hamstring], wide receivers Jacoby Ford [foot], Chaz Schilens [foot] and rookie Denarius Moore [foot].

Ford had appeared to be on target to play this weekend versus the Green Bay Packers, but that may be on hold based on early signs of inactivity this workweek.

McFadden’s target date to return was this weekend at Lambeau Field, but that appears to be a pipe dream, with no signs or realistic timetable for his return to duty.

“If anything there’s more positives,” Hue Jackson commented, regarding the healing of some of his players. “They’re getting closer, and I wish I could tell you what day and what the percentage is, but I know they’re getting closer.”

John Henderson [knee] was also held out of practice.

Rolando McClain, Kevin Boss and veteran Richard Seymour were all seeing action on Wednesday. Jason Campbell has yet to begin any passing activities.

Jackson should have growing concerns about the availability of many of his key players, especially with the season winding down and the playoffs at jeopardy.

“It’s not going to be, I’m going to make a decision because it’s cold, it’s where it is, boy, maybe we shouldn’t play him,” Jackson said. “No, right now we need every guy that we can get back out here on this football team that can contribute and help us win. So, if there’s a player that can be back out here, trust me, we’ll put him back out here.”

The Indianapolis Colts lead the league with 83 missed starts because of injuries. The Carolina Panthers are second with 80. The New York Giants, St. Louis Rams and Raiders are tied for third with 65 missed starts.

Charles Woodson returned to practice today after his concussion last weekend, and appears to be ready to play on Sunday against his old club. Guard Josh Sitton has been ruled out, Chad Clifton has hamstring and back ailments, A.J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop are unknowns for the remainder of the week and rusher James Starks may be forced out due to a knee injury.

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The Oakland Raiders (7-4) are entering December in first-place, but embark on a critical stretch of back-to-back road games, which begins with the Miami Dolphins (3-8) on Sunday. “Seize the opportunity,” says defensive tackle Richard Seymour. “You’d rather play in games like this where every play is meaningful. It’s so much more fun for everybody.”

“Everyone realizes the opportunity that we have,” Seymour stated this week. “You don’t want to be the guy that squandered it away.”

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

It appears that Carson Palmer will be without running back Darren McFadden and receivers Jacoby Ford and Denarius Moore on Sunday. Today, Moore skipped practice with a sprained right foot and Ford was seen jogging lighttly – all signs that both playmakers will be inactive once again.

Palmer has not played with McFadden yet, but has been the beneficiary of Michael Bush’s solid play in relief.

Against the Chicago Bears, Oakland mixed up their passing attack with Marcel Reece while also incorporating Chaz Schilens, Louis Murphy and Darrius Heyward-Bey, who valiantly made it back into the line-up a week after sustaining a scary neck injury versus the Vikings.

“[Reece] looks like a fullback, but he runs like a receiver, and once the ball is in his hands he looks like a tailback,” Palmer said. “He is kind of a chameleon. Whatever we ask him to do, he’ll do it.”

On Defense:

The Raiders got their pass rush going against the Bears, something they’ll need to bring to Miami is they plan to snatch their fifth road win of the season.

Unlike Tim Tebow, Christian Ponder or Caleb Hanie, Oakland does not have to worry about Matt Moore scampering out of the backfield, as he’s more of a pocket passer. This should give the Raiders a chance to put the Dolphins in some compromising down and distances.

Miami has allowed 34-sacks so far, so expect Oakland to be aggressive all afternoon. Jake Long and the rest of his line mates were flagged for four false starts in Dallas last week.

Despite missing practice on Wednesday, Seymour and starting middle linebacker Roland McClain are expected to start.

MIAMI DOLPHINS

On Offense:

Reggie Bush has taken a heavier load as of late and he’s the type of rusher Oakland has issues with. His elusiveness out of the backfield and pass catching abilities will be a concern of Chuck Bresnahan’s.

In his last four games, Bush has tallied four touchdowns and 355 total yards of offense. Moore is coming off a solid month of November, posting a 112.7 passer rating – only Aaron Rodgers (131.6) and Tony Romo (113.0) were better.

Brandon Marshall is always a threat, especially coming off a touchdown and 103-yard performance on Thanksgiving Day.

Like the Raiders last week, Miami has suffered through red-zone woes. “That’s what really hurt us,” tight end Anthony Fasano said. “We learned that settling for field goals isn’t going to get us wins.”

On Defense:

In their last five games, the Dolphins have allowed an average of 72.2 yards rushing per game, second best in the league during that span.

Cameron Wake’s play has dropped off significantly from last season. Yeah, of course my sack numbers aren’t as high,” he said recently. “But I would like to think that I’m doing the things that I need to do to help the team win.”

He has freed up other teammates and has definitely caught the eye of Oakland’s passer. “Haven’t thought about Green Bay once, Miami’s too good. I see Cameron Wake in my sleep at night,” stated Palmer.

“There are so many things that go on that aren’t on the score sheet,” Wake said. “There’s no stat for [Paul] Soliai taking on a double team to let Karlos [Dansby] come through the hole and get a tackle for loss. There’s no stat for holding two guys so someone else can make a play.”

KEY MATCH-UPS

Raiders’ ground attack vs. Dolphins’ defensive front

Bush ran for 69-yards last week, his lowest total since starting in place of McFadden. Oakland had a season low 73-ground yards also versus the Bears. They have to re-establish their presence running the ball to come away with this road win.

Moore vs. Raiders 2ndary

Oakland’s defensive backfield can be had. Moore and Marshall are a dangerous combination. Fasano and Bush could also cause havoc. If Moore doesn’t make any mistakes, he’ll wind up with hefty numbers on Sunday.

GAME NOTES

• In the last four games, Miami has only allowed two touchdown passes and racked up six interceptions.
• Sebastian Janikowski was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week after posting a franchise record six field goals last weekend.
• Jason Campbell has been doing some light throwing, as he recovers from a broken collarbone. “He has been pitching it around a little bit. Not very far, but he’s pitching it around a little bit and getting better. So we’ll see where he is here soon,” said Hue Jackson.
• Jarvis Moss hopes to return this weekend: “I just did some jogging out there, and it felt good compared to last week. It feels better every single day,” he said earlier this week.
• Since 1992, the Dolphins are 10-3 against the Raiders.

PREDICTION

Raiders 24 – Dolphins 20

Oakland can’t look ahead at the Green Bay Packers. A slip could be hazardous in the tight AFC West. The Dolphins should take advantage of a blitz heavy Raider defense with Moore, Fasano, Bush, Marshall, Brian Hartline and Davone Bess. It won’t be easy for the Silver & Black, and Miami has found its stride as a spoiler in the last few weeks. But Oakland has the superior talent and a sense of urgency to pile the wins now, as they enter a tough stretch of football.

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SBReport.net would like to send best wishes to all fans of the Oakland Raiders on this Thanksgiving Day. We give thanks to everyone that reads this site on a daily basis and the millions in the Raider Nation.

Today, we look at who should give thanks for what has occurred so far this season in Silver & Black:

Michael Bush, RB

He’ll easily surpass Darren McFadden this weekend as the team’s leading rusher, as Bush is currently sitting on 599 yards, while the starter has been stuck with 614 since he got injured. Bush can enter free agency at the end of the campaign and land a hefty contract based on this year’s performances. He was projected as a first round draft choice prior to his senior season at Louisville, but a broken right leg derailed that. Now, Bush is in line to make up for some of that lost money.

Carson Palmer, QB

Pulled out of retirement, the former Bengal passer now has a new lease on life. He’s on a winning club that has high expectations in the coming years. Palmer has a stable of offensive talent, a secure left side of the offensive line and a head coach that wanted him badly. He got his wishes – out of Cincinnati and on a team that is an upstart.

Aaron Curry, LB

In the doghouse at Seattle, Curry was another acquisition the Raiders made in-season that landed them a starter. The former first round draft pick is playing better football, has fit in with Oakland and has a chance to head to the playoffs, instead of floundering on the depth chart on a four win team.

The Raider Offense…

Should be thankful for Jared Veldheer’s maturation into one of the better left tackles in the AFC. They also would like Stefen Wisnieski’s seamless transition to the pros at left guard and his ability to slide into the center spot when needed, Samson Satele’s steady presence and Cooper Carlisle and Khalif Barnes’ underrated play along the right side.

T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR

Should give thanks to Palmer and Hue Jackson – both integral reasons why he has a job at this point in the season.

Stanford Routt, CB

The cornerback won’t make the Pro Bowl nor will he receive notoriety for his play, especially since the defensive backfield has allowed a lot of yardage in 2011. But, Nnamdi Asomugha’s high contract demands opened the door for him to land his big deal and has given him a shot to be the key corner in Oakland’s schemes.

Kamerion Wimbley, LB

Wants to give thanks to the San Diego Chargers. Prior to his four-sack performance on Thursday night a few weeks back, he was sitting on two sacks and appeared lost in Oakland’s defense.

Sebastian Janikowski, K

He gives thanks to a powerful left leg and the thin air at Denver. He is now part owner of the league’s longest field goal.

Raiders passing attack…

Is thankful for having Denarius Moore. The rookie could wind up as the team’s leading pass catcher. Yes, he was a fifth round selection.

Chaz Schilens, WR

Would like to thank Warren Sapp for being so boisterous about the Silver & Black. No one outside of Oakland would have known who the receiver was if not for his rant about the future Hall of Famer.

The Raider Nation…

Gives thanks to Al Davis, his life and legacy, which will be forever synonymous with the Oakland Raiders.

Hue Jackson

The head coach should give thanks to Jason Campbell, for being such a professional, especially after Oakland quickly acquired Palmer, following the former starter’s injury.

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