Silver and Black Report

In seven career games versus the San Diego Chargers, Michael Bush has amassed 490-yards rushing (4.3) and four touchdowns, including his record breaking 242-yards from scrimmage performance earlier in this season.

Norv Turner and San Diego’s defense is well aware of the rusher’s prowess and his importance to Oakland’s offense.

“[Bush] is a big, physical guy. He’s a downhill runner,” Turner said. “What’s happened with us the last two times we’ve played them, they’ve gotten ahead in the game and he’s gotten an awful lot of carries. Two of his biggest plays the last time we played him came on screens.”

Hue Jackson is known to pull rabbits out of his hat, but Eric Weddle simplified Oakland’s attack and hit on an important aspect for them.

“They’re going to run the football. They’re going to take shots up the field. It’s pretty simple,” Weddle stated. “They’ll be successful if they win on first down and get into second or third-and-manageable.

“Carson’s an elite quarterback. He has his ups and downs, but he can make all the throws. When he’s protected he can sling it around. We didn’t play particularly well last time, 24 points, but we gave up too many big plays. They ran the ball efficiently so we have to go out and play great. It’s got to be a team effort to go out and win in Oakland with a lot riding on the line for them.”

Jacoby Ford said he is ready to go on Sunday. So is Michael Huff.

“I’ll be out there,” Ford said. “If I practice this much this week and I’m not out there, I’d be mad. I’ll be out there, though.”

If he plays, it will be as a receiver, as Oakland will not gamble with Ford as a kick returner. Bryan McCann has done well enough to maintain that job and limit any risks with Ford.

Al Saunders stated, “Well, [Ford] has practiced and we are excited to see that. He is a very talented young man with great speed and he adds another dimension when he is able to be there. He has done a nice job this week. He hasn’t practiced fully, but he has been worked in and is very, very good at what he has done so we are excited about the possibility of him making a contribution.”

John Henderson will not play, and unless Oakland gets into the deep playoff run, don’t expect the veteran back on the field this season.

Saunders on the playoffs:

“You know what, that is funny because somebody asked me just before practice, what are the scenarios of the wild card? And in all honesty, I really don’t know. I just know that we have to win. And I know having been in this league for 30 years, you can’t control anything other than what you do. And all of our focus and all our attention and all of our energy has to be spent on what we need to do against the San Diego Chargers. And then after the game, the chips will fall where they may, but I really don’t know, and I don’t look at those things, it is wasted energy. We have got enough to worry about what is going to happen over there on Sunday at 1:00.”

NOTES

• There is a lot of speculation surrounding the Chargers and whether it will be Norv Turner’s final game with the organization. As a Raider, Turner’s tenure ended after a 9-23 overall record and 1-11 divisional record, including a 0-6 mark against the west in 2005.
• “This is a rival. They hate us and we hate them, and they want to spoil our playoff run,” said Michael Huff.
• Weddle: “I love playing on the road, especially at Oakland.”

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Darren McFadden jogged lightly and worked with trainers during Tuesday’s practice session.

The Oakland Raiders injured rusher has been sidelined since October 23 with an injured foot that he sustained versus the Kansas City Chiefs. He’ll likely be out again this weekend, as the Silver & Black travel to Arrowhead for their final meeting of the campaign against their divisional foes.

Hue Jackson has stated for weeks that he expects McFadden’s return and just recently reported that he will not need surgery. Jason La Canfora on Sunday reported that McFadden will likely be out for the remainder of the season and the post-season, if Oakland qualifies.

Taiwan Jones and Bryan McCann were back at practice. John Henderson (knee) and Michael Huff (hamstring) were out. Jacoby Ford (foot) is not expected to suit up this weekend – he was injured during their Thursday night match-up at San Diego.

Yesterday, Oakland inked nose tackle Travis Ivey to the practice squad, presumably to aide a defensive line that could miss Henderson again this weekend.

CRENNEL ON THE RAIDERS

Romeo Crennel addressed the media today regarding their upcoming contest in Kansas City versus their rivals.

On Oakland:

“The Raiders, they are a very talented team on both sides of the ball and they always play us tough generally. I remember the games last year when we went out there and lost in overtime and then they came here and they got after us pretty good. So this year hopefully we can flip it a little bit because we went out there and got after them pretty good and then when they come in here this time hopefully we can get them. That’s what we are going to try to get done but they do have a lot of talent. I think our guys still have a good feel from the Sunday game but I am trying to get them to put that in the background and let’s focus on the Raiders because this is the most important game of the year.”

On the rivalry and do you hate the Raiders:

“Well as it turns out that’s the case, that’s the way I feel right now. I would like to win only one game this year and it happens to be the Raiders who are coming in. That’s why I tell the guys the next game is the most important game, and this being the Raiders makes it doubly important. We’re going to be fired up to play the Raiders. Anytime we play at home we are fired up, but particularly when the Raiders come to town. We’re excited about it, I’m excited about it. Sometimes, I told you, my demeanor is a pretty even-keeled demeanor so don’t take that as I’m not getting up for the game because I’m up for the game and our guys will be up for the game.”

On his team’s playoff hopes:

“I told the players yesterday, I said by winning against Green Bay, we’re still in the hunt and that’s all I want to hear about, is we’re in the hunt. And now we have to beat the Raiders and I want all the talk and focus to be about the Raiders.”

On Tamba Hali:

“Tamba comes to work every day. He comes to work every day and particularly on Sunday. He is relentless in rushing the passer, he works at his trade.”

STATS

• In 11 games versus the Raiders, Hali has tallied 6.5 sacks.
• The Chiefs are 31-13 against the Raiders since 1990. Kansas City leads the series: 55-48-2. Oakland last lost in 2006 at Arrowhead.
• Since Nov. 20, KC has held opponents to a 27.9 3rd-down conversion rate. Oakland was 1-of-9 on 3^rd downs versus the Lions.
• Last 5-games versus the Chiefs, the Raiders have averaged 151.4 yards rushing per game.

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On Wednesday, the Oakland Raiders got wide receiver Denarius Moore back into practice mode. He sprained his foot against the Vikings a few weeks back, but today, he was fielding punts and working with the offense, as it appears that the Silver & Black will get a little pop back into the offense on Sunday versus the Detroit Lions.

Moore is the only one of the recently hindered Raiders that was back on the field.

Darren McFadden was missing in action, and will likely be out again this Sunday a few days after Hue Jackson proclaimed that his starting running back “does not need surgery.”

Jacoby Ford (foot) and Taiwan Jones (hamstring) got light work in with trainers, so there’s question whether or not they’ll be able to play against the Lions. At this point, it appears that only Moore will be healthy enough for action, especially since Jackson has stated in the past that he would rather not put players out there that may be slowed by any ailments.

The always nicked up Samson Satele practiced, so did Chaz Schilens and Louis Murphy. Defensive tackle John Henderson (knee) and Michael Huff (hamstring) were missing today, but both should be active versus Detroit.

Cornerback Chris Houston was a full participant in practice for the Lions after missing the last two games with a sprained MCL.

Louis Delmas, who has that same injury, was absent from the practice field. Nick Fairley and linemate Ndamukong Suh were both in the trenches on Wednesday.

“It is what it is. I’m looking forward to playing against Oakland and getting back on the football field,” said Suh.

“He’s obviously healthy and looked good and is excited to be back and focused on the Oakland Raiders,” stated head coach Jim Schwartz on Monday.

NOTES

• “We’re on pace for that? Wow. It’s a record you don’t want to break. I guess we need to do everything in our power not to break it. First and foremost we have to win Sunday. If we win and still have an enormous amount of penalties, I really couldn’t care either way,” commented Stanford Routt, regarding the team’s130 penalties for 1,116 yards, which has them on pace for the league record.
• “We have to go 3-0 in the next three weeks,” Carson Palmer said about the team’s outlook for the post-season. “There is no other option, no other route. If you want to make it to the playoffs and then you want to play well in the playoffs, you have to be playing really good football at this time of year. We got to start on Sunday.”
• Oakland is the worst, allowing 5.2 yard per carry, but Detroit is right behind them allowing 5.1 yards per carry. This bodes well for the Silver & Black, who need to revitalize their ground attack – they’ve ran for an average of 78.6 yards per game in their last three contests.
• They will have to run the ball, especially because Detroit ranks third in the NFL with 29 takeaways and are tied for second with 18 interceptions. The Lions lead the league in defensive scoring with 36 points. Oakland is knotted at second for throwing most interceptions in the NFL.

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Here’s a wrap-up of recent events in Raiderland. Since Al Davis’ epic press conference, the Oakland Raiders have re-signed some of their talent and beginning to take shape on the sidelines. Newly minted head coach Hue Jackson has also talked to the media. SBReport.net will catch you up on everything that needs to be known:

TRANSACTIONS

Richard Seymour: Signed a two-year deal worth up to $30 million, including $22.5 in guarantees. At 31, the defensive lineman becomes one of the highest paid defenders in the league. His presence on and off the field, the leadership he provides for the younger linemen Oakland is grooming and winning mentality was worth the hefty contract. The Raiders don’t have a 1^st round draft choice this April as part of the deal to get Seymour’s services from the Patriots. Keeping him around was imperative.

“I’m thrilled to be with the Silver and Black, a team that has a bright future,” said Seymour.  “As I mentioned many times before, I see myself retiring a Raider.”

Kamerion Wimbley: Signing Seymour allowed Oakland to slap their franchise tag on their OLB. “Kamerion is a great young talent and he and the Raiders are excited about him continuing his career as a member of the Silver and Black,” stated Hue Jackson.

Wimbley will make just over $10 million next season under the tag. He’s part of Oakland’s pas rushing success, leading the club with nine-sacks in 2010.

John Henderson: Oakland inked the mammoth tackle to a two-year $8 million contract. He’s a fiery presence, adds substantial bulk to the line of scrimmage, but how many reps will he get during the course of a season?

With Matt Shaughnessy and Lamarr Houston locks to start at end, Tommy Kelly & Richard Seymour anchoring the middle, and the Raiders desire to get more out of youngster Desmond Bryant, Henderson’s role may be limited. Depth is needed along the trenches, and a healthy rotation is crucial for success. But if Henderson breaks down and ages quickly, it will be hard to see he sticking around. Henderson is a run stuffing specialist, something Oakland has not been able to do for ages and he could be a key cog to fixing that leaky aspect of the line.

Rock Cartwright: Terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but keeping their special teams ace was important. He sprung Jacoby Ford on kickoffs, was involved in punt blocks and was another vocal veteran presence. He’s their new age Randy Jordan with his enthusiasm and willingness to do all the dirty work on special teams.

Stanford Routt: Signed a three-year extension guaranteeing him $20 million the first two years. That kind of money can only spell more playing time and that Oakland is ready to move on without Nnamdi Asomugha. Routt is inconsistent and you can argue that for a few more million, Asomugha could’ve been brought back over Routt. Asomugha wants to test the free agent waters and Davis talked about not overpaying for his All Pro cornerback. Unless Asomugha really wanted to stay and agreed taking a discount, it would’ve been difficult to see their former first round choice donning the Silver & Black.

WHO’S NEXT?

Negotiations with tight end Zach Miller have been on-going. Oakland needs their most reliable target back, and the first time Pro Bowl talent has shown great interest in sticking around.

Prior to the 2010 season, Antonio Gates inked a lucrative 5-year $36 million contract with $20 million guaranteed. Vernon Davis last September signed a six-year $42.7 million deal with $23 million in guarantees. It will be interesting to see where Miller places himself within that group and how much Oakland compensates a tight end that improved his numbers the first three campaigns of his career with a shaky quarterback situation, listless offense and very few other productive targets around him and that made his first Pro Bowl in 2010.

Miller is also a solid run blocker and crucial in Oakland’s ground attack.

DRAFT FODDER

Stefen Wisniewski is one of the top center/guard prospects in the 2011 Draft. His uncle Steve is now employed by the Raiders. And with Oakland possibly in need of an upgrade at both spots, could we see another Wisniewski don a Raider jersey?

“I don’t know anything at this point about where I will get drafted or who will draft me,” he said. “But you never know. It would be pretty cool to play for my uncle Steve. I think it would be awesome to work with him every day.

“He was a great player for the Raiders, a great leader. I used to go watch him play some when I was a kid, and I’d hang out in the locker room afterward.”

Oakland does not have a first round pick and will not select until no. 48^th overall (2^nd round).

HUE SPEAKS

Jackson spoke at the Combine in Indianapolis about various topics.

On Jacoby Ford:

“The guy is fast, and he scores touchdowns. So there’s no question any time I can get the ball in his hands, I want to do that. I mean, he’s a tremendous talent.”

Who is the defensive coordinator?

“You’re looking at him [jokingly]. No, it’s still a process that we’re going through. There’s so many different phases that you go through as you put this team together and as you start to put your staff together. I think the most important thing, I don’t want to rush to any decision. I don’t have to right now. Obviously we have a very good staff right now. There are still some guys I talk to from time to time. But I also feel comfortable with where we are. When I decide that that the process needs to be over, it’ll be over, but right now that’s not the number one thing that’s on my mind.”

On Jason Campbell:

“I am looking forward to Jason leading our offensive football team to winning this AFC West championship and the playoffs. Jason Campbell came in last year and, in my opinion, did a tremendous job.”

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

The Oakland Raiders (6-6) took a major step forward last weekend with a victory at San Diego, making themselves a playoff contender in the AFC. The Jacksonville Jaguars (7-5) are sitting pretty atop the AFC South, looking to control their own destiny as the season winds down. “This isn’t about anyone but us,” said tight end Marcedes Lewis. “We set our goals high before the season and we have a chance to make those a reality.” The Silver & Black have altered their practice schedule and are fully aware of what it will take to fly east and come away with a victory. “Just looking at the history of us, just in my time here, we’ve really struggled,” Tom Cable stated. “When you look at the records of teams going west to east it’s not very good. The only thing we could come up with was try to get their body clocks on something similar to that.”

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

When the Raiders run the football effectively, they usually win. In their six victories, Oakland has averaged 133.5 more ground yards than their opponent. During the six losses, they’ve been outgained in the rushing department by 84.2 yards per contest.

“If we just keep running the ball and doing what we do, then I think that’s the Raiders,” running back Michael Bush commented this week. “We come out, pound you, pound you, pound you, throw the ball, then I think we’ll get a lot accomplished.”

What to Expect:

The Jaguars have the 17^th ranked (109.5) rush defense in the NFL. It’s imperative Oakland runs the ball with consistency and keeps Jason Campbell in manageable 3^rd down situations on the road. The quarterback was masterful in his decision-making, scrambling and mastery of the offense last weekend. Maybe he feels completely comfortable knowing Bruce Gradkowski is no longer looking over his shoulder? If that’s the case, Oakland will then be able to open up the passing attack a bit more against a Jacksonville secondary that allows 253 yards a game via the air (27^th in the NFL).

On Defense:

The Raiders are now tied with the Steelers for the most sacks in the NFL (36).

Oakland can get into the backfield with a four-man rush, but it’s their blitzing mentality that can rattle opponents, and that shows on how the sacks are distributed throughout the team.

Tommy Kelly leads the team with 6.5 and linebacker Kamerion Wimbley has 5.5, but starting safeties Tyvon Branch and Michael Huff have combined for 7.

Their rush defense is aided whenever they can jump ahead; which has been the case in many of their wins, especially last week versus the Chargers, when Oakland allowed a measly 21-yards on the ground.

What to Expect:

Shutting down Maurice Jones-Drew is imperative. If Oakland can stack the box and be successful in slowing down the league’s second-leading rusher, Jacksonville’s targets pose no threat to a very active Raiders secondary. The Jaguars rank 29^th in passing offense. More importantly for Oakland, the Jaguars have the most giveaways in the AFC (16 interceptions, 10 fumbles).

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

On Offense:

The Jaguars deploy a simple game-plan; run the ball with Jones-Drew and feed off that. The fifth year talent out of UCLA has tallied 1,177-rushing yards in 2010.

“I like our physical approach,” head coach Jack Del Rio said. “… The team that controls the line of scrimmage wins the game a large percentage of the time.”

Jacksonville’s passer David Garrard has thrown 11 interceptions and has been sacked 26-times this season. He is turnover prone, but his mobility and ability to break containment could give the pass-rush happy Raiders some problems.

What to Expect:

Mike Sims-Walker has been limited in practice. Leading receiver Mike Thomas and Marcedes Lewis need to be factors in this contest. Oakland will commit to stopping Jones-Drew, so if Garrard can draw the safeties in and get the ball down the field a few times, it could soften the defense enough where they can pound away in the ladder stages of the game with their powerful run game.

On Defense:

Kirk Morrison was moved to Jacksonville in the off-season for a fourth round draft choice. The former middle linebacker for the Raiders is excited to play against his ex-teammates and the team he grew up cheering for.

“Because you grew up there, you want to play as a Raider for your whole entire life but sometimes change is good. And, definitely, for me, it has helped me out tremendously,” said Morrison.

He sees a change in Oakland and is anticipating a tough contest on Sunday.

“Both teams really like to run the football, both teams are going to be physical. It’s December football. I know how excited we are here for the opportunity that we have. I can only imagine what’s going on in that locker room down in Oakland . Guys are playing inspired football this late in the season. You haven’t seen that over there, I know I didn’t. We didn’t have that opportunity in the five years that I was there to be playing December with so much at stake and with so much on the line. It’s going to make for a nice atmosphere on Sunday afternoon.”

What to Expect:

The Jaguars rank 24^th in points per game allowed, 17^th in run defense and 27^th in pass defense. So you wonder, how they have got atop the AFC South? “We’ve got a pretty good story going on in a year when this city really needed it,” said Del Rio. The defense was stout against Arian Foster (56 yards), Peyton Hillis (48 yards) and Chris Johnson (53 yards). If they can slow Darren McFadden, Oakland will struggle to move the chains

GAME NOTES

• “Running the ball and stopping the run are good things to do, but it goes beyond that,” Del Rio said. “They have five miscellaneous touchdowns. We don’t have any yet.” Jacksonville has scored fewer points (257) and have a worse point differential (minus-43) than four last-place teams. They’ve also won games with a 50-yard Hail Mary pass, a 59-yard field goal on the game’s final play and after committing 6 turnovers.
• In 2009, the Jaguars were 7-5 and in the lead for a wild card berth before losing four straight to end the season.
• Since 2003, the Silver & Black are 5-17 in day games at east coast sites.
• The Jaguars are 12-1 the last two seasons when scoring more than 20-points.
• John Henderson, Quentin Groves and Khalif Barnes used to play for Jacksonville. The defensive tackle said of Jones-Drew, “Powerful. Great running back. Going down Sunday. 1 o’clock, Jacksonville, Florida. Sixty-six degrees. Maybe 20. Maybe a little bit of rain. It’s going down.’’

PREDICTION

Raiders 24 – Jaguars 17

The Jaguars are too one-dimensional on offense. Jones-Drew could carry them, but against a Raider team that is motivated and finding ways to fly east prepared and working to get acclimated to the time-zone, Garrard and the rest of the team must keep John Marshall’s unit off-balance. Something they won’t be able to do if the Raider team that showed up in San Diego shows up in Jacksonville.

BROADCAST INFORMATION (cited from official Raiders web site)

TELEVISION: The game will be televised on CBS with Kevin Harlan providing play-by-play and former NFL player Solomon Wilcots handling color analysis.  The game will air in the Bay Area on KPIX Channel 5 and in Sacramento on KOVR Channel 13.The game also airs on KHSL in Chico, KION in Monterey and KJEO in Fresno. RADIO: Greg Papa and Tom Flores will call the game live on Raiders Radio Network originating on KITS LIVE 105.3 FM and KFRC 1550 AM, with pre and post-game analysis on KFRC. Papa and Raiders two-time Super Bowl winning head coach Flores will man the booth for the 13th straight year. The radio pregame and postgame shows will feature Raider Legends George Atkinson and David Humm as well as local veteran radio personalities Bruce Magowan and Jason Ross.

GAME INFO

Sunday, December 12, 2010 1:00 p.m. ET | EverBank Field, Jacksonville, FL

Home Team: Jacksonville Jaguars (7-5) Home: 4-2  Road: 3-3

Road Team: Oakland Raiders (6-6) Home: 4-2 Road: 2-4

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

There’s quite a few storylines between the Oakland Raiders and the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Both teams are looking to land playoff spots. Both teams aren’t looked at as threats in a top-heavy American Football Conference. And both share connections with ex-teammates.

John Henderson, Quentin Groves and Khalif Barnes used to play for Jacksonville. Kirk Morrison and Slade Norris used to don the Silver & Black.

“Big John was one of my favorites,’’ said Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio. “Big, strong, powerful guy and a lot of fun to be around. It’s not easy to let go of guys like that. In the end we felt we did what we had to do as an organization.’’

In April, Jacksonville cut the two-time pro bowl defensive tackle opening up a starting spot for first-round draft pick Tyson Alualu.

“He can be nice all he wants,’’ Henderson said jokingly about his former coach and the complimentary comments Del Rio had for him. “I’ll put it up on the bulletin board. He knows it.’’

Del Rio reportedly slighted Henderson for pulling out of off-season drills, suggesting he wasn’t dedicated and faking a shoulder injury to steer clear of work.

“It’s going to feel good to go and whip somebody’s you know what,’’ Henderson said. “I wasn’t laughing. I hope he goes and puts it on his bulletin board, too. Because I know what he’s going to do.”

As for the match-up against the league’s second leading rusher – Maurice Jones-Drew, Henderson commented, “Powerful. Great running back. Going down Sunday. 1 o’clock, Jacksonville, Florida. Sixty-six degrees. Maybe 20. Maybe a little bit of rain. It’s going down.’’

Groves talked about his time in Jacksonville:  “I mean, they gave me chances, they gave me opportunities, you know, at the same time, but it’s whatever they want to say. If they want to say they didn’t put me in position, then they didn’t put me in position. I’m not gonna go tit for tat with these guys. Like I said, I strap it up on Sunday at 1:05 in Duval County and I’ll be ready. I’ll just tell you that I’ll be ready.’’

‘Captain’ Kirk,  a mainstay in Oakland for a few seasons talked to Bay Area reporters about his former team coming to Jacksonville and his observations of this edition of the Silver & Black:

“Both teams really like to run the football, both teams are going to be physical. It’s December football. I know how excited we are here for the opportunity that we have. I can only imagine what’s going on in that locker room down in Oakland . Guys are playing inspired football this late in the season. You haven’t seen that over there, I know I didn’t. We didn’t have that opportunity in the five years that I was there to be playing December with so much at stake and with so much on the line. It’s going to make for a nice atmosphere on Sunday afternoon.” – Morrison

OTHER NOTES

• CB Chris Johnson was back on the practice field today.
• MLB Rolando McClain was on the field, but wearing a protective boot.
• WR Chaz Schilens continued to work with the first-team.
• “They absolutely annihilated the Chargers,” said Del Rio of Oakland’s performance last weekend.
• The Jaguars have been fortunate in a few wins; claiming victory during contests where they committed six turnovers, had to kick a 59-yard field goal as time expired and a 50-yard Hail Mary pass.
• The Jaguars have scored fewer points (257) & have a worse point differential (minus-43) than four last-place teams.
• In 2009, Jacksonville was 7-5, in line for a playoff berth before losing 4-straight to end the season.
• Raiders TE Zach Miller vs. Jaguars TE Zach Miller

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

The Oakland Raiders have not been able to run the ball in back-to-back weeks, but of concern as well should be their rush defense.

In Pittsburgh, the Steelers averaged 4.9 yards per carry for a tally of 162-yards. On Sunday, the Miami Dolphins ran the ball 49-times and amassed 186-yards rushing. This after allowing an average of 75.3 yards per contest during their three-game winning streak, only over 100-yards only once during that span; to Kansas City, the league’s best ground game in a overtime battle.

So what’s going on?

Opponents are going back to bullying the Raiders on the ground and getting physical with a defensive line that plays a lot better when they can just rush the passer and play from in front.

Oakland is no longer ambushing their opponents like in Denver, or holding their ground till the offense or special teams can come up with plays as what happened against Seattle and Kansas City.

Trevor Scott’s injury was pivotal, a key player who is workmanlike in his approach. But that shouldn’t be, or is the main reason teams are just lining up and running the ball down the Silver & Black’s throat.

Richard Seymour is healthy and as aggressive as ever. Tommy Kelly is having a solid campaign. Lamarr Houston and Matt Shaughnessy have had their moments. But as a group, the line has not come together to become a unified unit in recent weeks. Even with John Henderson back healthy and in the rotation, Oakland has not been able to  hold the fort in the trenches.

“On the line of scrimmage, it’s a street fight. You either get after it and start right from the beginning and set a mentality for the day, or is going to be a long day,” said Tom Cable following the loss to the Dolphins.

Oakland could face a dreadful afternoon this weekend. The San Diego Chargers have averaged 127.2 rushing yards per game during their current four-game winning streak.

There is no denying that Norv Turner wants to establish a run game. And with the Raiders struggling at the line of scrimmage, Mike Tolbert could match the 26-carries he had versus the Colts.

Jacob Hester is a bruising fullback. Tolbert is a tough runner. Oakland knows what’s coming, but can they stop it?

Tolbert praised his blockers, especially Kris Dielman, Nick Hardwick and Louis Vasquez, stating, “[the offensive line] want to go downhill and want to block and want to pound on the people in front of them.”

Philip Rivers tossed for 431-yards against the Raiders the first time around. He may not need as many yards this Sunday to beat them, and surely, Turner wants more balance if they expect to extend their 7-year winning streak at home versus Oakland.

PHIL SIMMS – OUT

CBS Sports analyst Phil Simms will not broadcast next to his cohort Jim Nantz this weekend. The network’s no. 1 team during NFL games will not feature Simms while he recovers from back surgery. Analyst Dan Fouts will replace him for the time being.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Tom Cable gave his team updates, describing team injuries, what he and his players are looking forward to Sunday’s matchup against the Steelers, and he elaborated on the energy and tempo displayed during today’s practice.

video management, video solution, video streaming

Pittsburgh Steelers passer Ben Roethlisberger, in a conference call with the media, stated, “I would send this warning to him. Be careful with our field, because it’s terrible.” The message was intended for Nnamdi Asomugha, who is questionable with an ankle sprain.

Asomugha was on the field during practice, in pads and warming up.

The Oakland Raiders are aware of Roethlisberger’s scrambling ability. Cornerback Stanford Routt stated, “He’s probably the best pump-faker in the league. He’s so big he can palm the ball in one hand and pump it all the way like, full throwing motion. Whenever you’re going against a quarterback like that, it definitely makes the receivers more effective, because anytime you can get someone to, like Michael Vick with his feet or Ben Roethlisberger with his size and pump-faking ability, anyone who can prolong the play, that gives his receivers more time to get open, run around, this that and the other. It makes a cornerback’s job tough.’’

Zach Miller also suited up during practice and is a lock to play on Sunday. John Henderson was active today during drills, and if he doesn’t play against Pittsburgh, he’ll be ready to go versus the Miami Dolphins.

Oakland was missing wide receivers Chaz Schilens and Darrius Heyward-Bey. The second year speedster out of Maryland is questionable with a hamstring ailment, but you have to wonder if that impairment will really force him out of the line-up, or is the play of Jacoby Ford, the return of Louis Murphy and eventual activation of Chaz Schilens the real reason as to why he will miss some reps.

“My mindset was always to keep pushing forward, keep taking each game one game at a time and prepare yourself each and every day to go out and win,’’ Jason Campbell stated today about having the starting spot. “It’s no different now. You still have to go out there and prepare yourself to go out and play hard and win a game.’’

OTHER NOTES

• “People are really going to start talking about us for playoff contention if we do that,” safety Mike Mitchell said about a possible four game winning streak. “Everything that we’ve done up to this point is going to come down to what we do Sunday. We just want to keep all that momentum going.”
• Hines Ward passed his post-concussion tests and practiced in full-pads.
• Safety Troy Polamalu (Achilles) and safety Will Allen (concussion) sat during practice. Limited today were linebacker Lawrence Timmons (hip), Chris Kemoeatu (ankle) and defensive end Brett Keisel (hamstring).

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

This bye week feels completely different for fans of the Oakland Raiders (5-4). Instead of talk of who to purge or what players in the collegiate ranks could be donning Silver & Black, there’s talk of what it will take to make the post-season and how they can get there. Here are ten reasons to why the Raiders will or will not see playoff games this season:

1 — Oakland won’t make the playoffs because their schedule is brutal.

They only face two teams with sub .500 records, but one of them is the Chargers (4-5) on the road. The same San Diego team that tallied 506-total yards of offense in their week-five match-up at Oakland. Visiting Pittsburgh (6-2) after the bye and back-to-back games home versus Indianapolis (5-3) and on the road at Kansas City (5-3) could be back-breakers. The perfect scenario would be a winner takes all final game against the Chiefs – victor gets divisional title and probably the lone playoff spot an AFC West team will get. At Jacksonville (4-4) is no cakewalk and a home match-up against a Miami (4-4) who is better on the road will keep the Silver & Black on their toes.

2 – Oakland will make the playoffs because they are peaking when it matters most.

The Raiders went into the bye week winning three straight games for the first time since 2002. More importantly, they did it with key players injured and young players in vital spots. With seven games left, the team feels like they are generating momentum and gaining the confidence needed to carry them through a tough second half of the campaign.

3 – Oakland will make the playoffs because the division is weak.

Kansas City is atop the west, but you can make the case that they’ve taken advantage of their opponents’ difficulties early on their schedule. Starting today, they face the Broncos on the road, at Seattle (4-4) week-12 and back-to-back games at San Diego and St. Louis (4-4) before finishing against the Titans (5-3) and Oakland. The Chargers have a talent-laden club and could make a run, but they have to face the Colts, Raiders and Chiefs during a three-week span. They have the most favorable end to the schedule with the Bengals (2-6) and Broncos in weeks 16 and 17. The west is ripe for the taking, and if there ever was a year anyone can win it, it’s this season.

4 – Oakland will not make the playoffs because of instability at QB.

Is it Bruce Gradkowski, or Jason Campbell? Reports state that the owner wants to stay on course with Campbell, who has been under center during the three-game streak and was likened to Jim Plunkett before the start of the season. Prior to that, Tom Cable boasted that the team knew Gradkowski was their man. Regardless of who’s passing, the Raiders need them to play steady football. More importantly, the team has to be behind him completely and perform at a high level for them.

5 – Oakland will make the playoffs because their key players are playing at a Pro-Bowl level.

Darren McFadden (757-yards rushing), Zach Miller (34 rec. 461-yards 4 TD), Richard Seymour (5-sacks) and Nnamdi Asomugha are legitimate Pro-Bowl candidates. All four will prove to be important cogs on their respective units and are primed for solid second halves. Punter Shane Lechler is a lock to be an All-Pro again this season and Sebastian Janikowski, after blowing an important kick versus the Cardinals in week-three, has righted himself to lead the NFL in points (89), touchbacks (24) and field goals made (22).

6 – Oakland will make the playoffs because of their youth movement.

The Raiders have a youthful backfield with McFadden and Michael Bush. Jacoby Ford has ignited the team on special teams and is coming off an epic performance versus the Chiefs. Jared Veldheer is locking down the left tackle spot. Tyvon Branch and Mike Mitchell are developing nicely in the secondary. Rookies Rolando McClain and Lamarr Houston are expected to get better, and fullback Marcel Reece has been an underrated performer all year. The Raiders have loads of talent that are on the rise.

7 – Oakland will make the playoffs because they are getting key players back from injury.

Chaz Schilens has not played a down in 2010 and Louis Murphy has missed the last two contests. That could only boost an anemic wide receiver corps, along with the return of Miller, who was inactive against the Chiefs. The Raiders run defense could get a big lift with veteran John Henderson’s return. Asomugha’s recovery will be imperative as well as the continued health of McFadden.

8 – Oakland will make the playoffs because they are learning how to win.

Cable’s bunch bounced back after a pitiful performance on the road opening day. A tough defeat at Arizona and consecutive loss to Houston was followed up by a gritty effort against the Chargers. And when they loss to San Francisco, Oakland torched Denver on the road, disposed of Seattle at home and triumphed against Kansas City in one of the best performances in front of the ‘Black Hole’ since 2002. They’ve blown out opponents and sneaked out tight victories.

9 – Oakland will not make the playoffs because of Tom Cable.

Yes, Cable has to be admired after taking over for Lane Kiffin, spending tumultuous years with JaMarcus Russell and altering the losing culture that festered in Alameda. But it is a legitimate question to ask whether or not he can ultimately lead this team into the post-season. Players have belief in him. But this is the first time this group has found success and dealing with it, trying to achieve more and taking it to the next level will be something that could either land Cable a three-year to stick around, or he’ll be allowed to move on when his contract ends.

10 – Oakland will not make the playoffs because of a tough AFC.

The conference is the class of the NFL. They are many legitimate Super Bowl contenders (Jets, Patriots, Steelers, Ravens, Colts) and in a year where wild-card spots will be at a premium, Oakland may not be ready to take that next step against clubs that are seasoned and playoff tested, and that know what it takes to advance into the post-season.

FAN REACTION

Here’s what some Raiders fans think will happen, and their thoughts so far about the season from Twitter:

Best player: DMac. Best coach: Hue. Best rookie: Veldheer. Craziest Raider: Gallery and that hair!!! Go Raiders!!! – enasty7

[prediction for end of season] 9-7/DMac and line [offensive – best players]/Seymour and line on D/best moment: win over Chefs/love the blitzing and left side running. – mattcrichards

definitely has to be Jacoby’s snatch/catch away from Flowers to set up game tying field goal [best moment]. Reece’s quick slant vs Seahawks 2nd. – lopezee

11-5 [predicted finish] dmc cable huffs sack fumble return by branch to end losing streak to sd cuz it was my 1st raiders home [game], I’m from Louisiana. – Rdrs_Ahole

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist