Silver and Black Report

The Oakland Raiders (1-3) travel east to face the New York Giants (4-0) on Sunday. This will be the eleventh time they will meet during the regular season with Oakland having a 7-3 edge dating back to their first contest in 1973. In their last meeting, the Giants went into Oakland and beat the Silver & Black 30-21 on December 31, 2005.

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

It’s time to rev up the running game if you are the Raiders. Currently, they rank 28^th in the league in rushing, a surprise considering that was the lone aspect of this club that any prognosticator expected to be productive prior to the season beginning being the only position on the roster with considerable depth. For the next few weeks they will be without Darren McFadden (meniscus), so Justin Fargas and Michael Bush will carry the load. But it must start from the trenches, and since their game versus San Diego, the Raiders have lost any toughness and chemistry on the offensive line.

“It can go two ways,” starting left tackle Mario Henderson said this week, looking ahead to the Giants. “We can go out there and embarrass ourselves or go out there and make a name for ourselves. It’s a good opportunity for us.”

Chris Morris, who may start at left guard state, “That’s how we will measure ourselves, going up against the best. If we can put up a good game like we plan on doing it will be good for us.”

What to Expect:

The Giants defensive line can bring the heat. And their rush defense is stout. With Oakland re-shuffling their line and trying to find a way to get back a respectable ground game, it spells trouble for Tom Cable’s bunch. JaMarcus Russell will face intense pressure and there won’t be many run lanes for Fargas and Bush. New York’s defense is a prideful bunch and with their offensive leader possibly sidelined, they will make sure Oakland’s offense continues their woes, as they’ve averaged 7.3 points per game in their last three contests.

On Defense:

Oakland’s front-seven must be primed to face a tough ground game. Tommy Kelly, Gerard Warren, Richard Seymour and Greg Ellis must hold their ground and improve on the 146.3 yards allowed rushing per game so far in 2009.

“You don’t get to see 270-pound backs running that fast, but I mean he’s human so if you hit him around his beak a couple of times, he’ll slow down,’’ Tommy Kelly stated about Brandon Jacobs.

What to Expect:

The Raiders will stack the line of scrimmage in trying to slow down the Giants running backs. But they cannot allow their receivers to exploit the secondary in man-to-man coverage, as Chris Johnson has given up big yardage opposite Nnamdi Asomugha and the Giants receivers are having a solid start to 2009. If they can slow down the duo at running back for the Giants, they must attack whoever is at quarterback with their four down linemen and get there with consistency to have any shot at staying close late.

On Special Teams:

The play of the coverage units has fallen dramatically since last season; and the team returned the same components to a steady group in 2008. Oakland ranks 29th in punt returns, 32nd in kick coverage and 31st in kick returns.

Justin Miller was cut again this week, replaced by running back Gary Russell due to the injury to McFadden. Russell may see time returning kickoffs, as the combination of Louis Rankin, Jonathan Holland and Miller has been non-threats to opponents.

NEW YORK GIANTS

On Offense:

Much of the talk this week surrounded the health of starting quarterback Eli Manning. On Thursday, head coach Tom Coughlin did not predict whether or not his starter would play on Sunday after sustaining a heel injury last week, while back-up David Carr has taken snaps with the first team leading up to the game.

“I am sure he wants to play really bad, probably as bad as I want to play,” Carr said of Manning. “It’s the same for every competitor, every guy who wants to be on the field. Everybody gets hurt. We’re down a lot of guys now and I think everyone on the side wants to be out there to help the team.”

What to Expect:

Whether Manning plays or not, it won’t change what the Giants want to accomplish on Sunday. Their personality on offense is based on a tough ground game, and this may be the game to get back to being a dominant rushing unit. The Giants are averaging 145.5 yards per game rushing, but Jacobs is averaging almost 2 yards less per carry from his stats a year ago. Jacobs (288 yards rushing) and Ahmad Bradshaw (265 yards rushing) could combine for 200 yards rushing this weekend.

On Defense:

The Giants rank 19^th in rush defense (117.3), 1^st in pass defense (115.0) and 6^th in points allowed per contest (16.0)

All those numbers don’t bode well for a Raiders offense that cannot move the chains consistently or put points on the boards. Russell is struggling and is the worst starting quarterback in the league statistically, and he’s facing a team that can bring pressure with their down linemen and has covered well so far in 2009.

Linemen Justin Tuck (2.5 sacks) and Osi Umenyiora (2.0 sacks) are a quarterbacks worst nightmare, and either can line up anywhere along the formation.

What to Expect:

Antonio Pierce is the leader on defense, and his ability to dissect what offenses are trying to do and help his teammates get in the right position are invaluable traits. Oakland does not run an elaborate offensive scheme, so the Giants can just line up and play physical football. That is not in Oakland’s personality, so it will be tough for the Raiders to match New York’s intensity or style of play.

GAME NOTES

• The Giants are coming off a three-game road trip and will play in front of their home crowd for the first time since week-one. They have not begun a season 5-0 since 1990.
• Michael Bush will start at running back. He stated this week, “You want to be that man.”
• Chaz Schilens did not practice and will most likely miss another week of action. Nick Miller will be inactive and won’t be ready for at least another two-weeks. Zach Miller missed practice on Thursday, but is expected to play. Hiram Eugene finished practice and is on schedule to be activated this week.

KEY MATCH-UPS

Steve Smith vs. Nnamdi Asomugha/Chris Johnson

Smith is leading the NFL in receptions (34), yards (411) and touchdowns (4). The 24-year old is establishing himself as New York’s ‘go to guy’ and if he goes up against the best cornerback in football, it could be the best match-up of the entire weekend anywhere. Against Johnson, Smith could wiggle his way for big gains as he is a precise route runner.

RT Kareem McKenzie, RG Chris Snee, C Shaun O’hara, LG Rich Seubert and LT David Diehl vs. The Raiders front seven

That Giants’ offensive line may be the best in the league. Add FB Madison Hedgecock to that load and Oakland’s defense may be facing the toughest bunch they’ll see all year.

Can JaMarcus Russell play mistake free and make a big play or two…or three?

If by some chance Oakland is close in the 4^th quarter, they will need their QB to play over his head. They will need big plays out of him to stay close and pull an upset.

PREDICTION

Giants 29 – Raiders 3

TV & RADIO

The game will be televised on CBS with Greg Gumbel providing play-by-play and former NFL player and Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Dierdorf handling color analysis. The game will air locally on KPIX Channel 5. The game will also air in Sacramento on KOVR Channel 13 as well as on KHSL in Chico, KION in Monterey and KJEO in Fresno. The game will air on Raiders Radio originating on KSFO 560 AM, the Silver and Black’s Flagship for the multi-state Radio Network. Greg Papa and former Raiders player, assistant and head coach Tom Flores will man the booth for the 12th straight year. The radio pregame show and postgame show will feature Raider Legends George Atkinson and David Humm along with KSFO’s Rich Walcoff. (Broadcast information cited from the official Raiders web site)

GAME INFO

Sunday, October 11, 2009, 1 p.m. ET | Giants Stadium, NJ

Home Team: New York Giants (4-0) Home: 1-0 Road: 3-0

Road Team: Oakland Raiders (1-3) Home: 0-2 Road: 1-1

Point Spread: Raiders are 14.5 underdogs

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

On Sunday, the Houston Texans (1-2) will try to avenge their 27-16 loss to the Oakland Raiders (1-2) from last season. In 2008, the Texans went into Oakland trying to extend to a franchise best five game-winning streak. But receivers Johnnie Lee Higgins and Chaz Schilens shined during the Raiders revival as the season wound down.

The Silver & Black has lost three of the four meetings in the short history of this series.

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

The Raiders have anticipated Schilens’ arrival for some weeks now. But it appears now that the receiver will miss another game as he recovers from the broken bone in his left foot that he sustained during the pre-season. JaMarcus Russell’s favorite receiver practiced and went through drills, but his designated as ‘doubtful’ by Tom Cable.

Oakland needs as much talent around Russell right now, as he is currently slumping with a league worst 39.8 passer rating. And one former Raider has pinpointed some of the issues in Oakland with his recent comments.

“When you put him on the field in a one-on-one workout session [Russell] make every throw for you,” said Jeff Garcia who was signed by the Raiders this off-season and spent a lot of the summer in the same practice field working along side the former first overall pick before he was released. “But when it comes down to making things happen in the heat of the battle and rallying the troops around you and making a case for the team, that’s where maybe things aren’t where they need to be.”

He also commented on other issues regarding the club, stating: “It was to a point where I felt like guys who walked through those doors that just were there to collect a check and not really interested in putting everything that they had within themselves on to the football field. And that was the frustrating thing for me to see.”

“There were a lot of good young guys in that locker room who really want to do whatever it takes to win, but unfortunately it’s not everybody,” Garcia continued. “In order to compete at this level in this game, everybody needs to be on board.”

What to Expect:

The Texans are made to order for the Raiders. Oakland needs to get back to running the football and establishing Darren McFadden, Michael Bush and Justin Fargas as the spearheads to this offense. Russell needs the help and a powerful running game to help him get out of his funk. The Texans are allowing a league worst 205 yards rushing per game. If Oakland cannot run against them, this game could get ugly.

On Defense:

The rush defense has completely collapsed since their impressive first half outing in week-one versus the Chargers. Oakland is allowing 155 yards on the ground per game and now faces a team with a very capable rusher who will try to breakout after a slow start to his season.

In the last two-contests, the Texans have racked up 420 and 397 total yards respectively and they’ll try to take advantage of the Raiders woes versus the run. Cable realizes how important it is to stuff their ground game early, stating, “We’re similar that way. So you want to get started fast. I think it probably bodes well for whichever team can get going soonest.”

What to Expect:

Pressure must be applied to the Texans offense – no excuses. The Raiders need to get to Matt Schaub and force some mistakes. So far, the Texans’ passer has only 2 interceptions and been sacked a league low 2 times. If Greg Ellis, Richard Seymour and the rest of the front-four cannot get to Schaub, he’ll carve up the Raiders’ secondary. Oakland will probably allow Steve Slaton to get his yardage, but if Schaub gets going himself, this Houston team will put up 30-points or more.

On Special Teams:

Justin Miller is back on the team. And deservingly, after Louis Rankin and Jonathan Holland were non-threats on kickoffs. The former New York Jet energized the return teams last season upon his arrival, but this summer was released in favor of other return men. “Sometimes it’s really not about you as a person,” he stated of his release. “It’s kind of what fits for the team at that point of time. You just take it in stride and be ready for the next opportunity.”

HOUSTON TEXANS

On Offense:

Schaub is enjoying a solid start to his season, recording the 4^th best passer rating in the league (101.9), the 8^th most passing yards in the NFL (823) and a solid touchdown to interception ratio, (7TD only 2 INT).

But what he would like is for 2^nd year pro Steve Slaton to get going. Houston is only averaging 70 yards a game on the ground, with Slaton rushing for 127 yards on 38 carries. Seventy-six of those yards came last week, and at this point, the Texans may be catching the Raiders at the right moment in trying to jolt their ground game.

One of the league’s best players – Andre Johnson – has started his season well. The 28-year old target has 18 catches for 270 yards and 2 scores.

What to Expect:

Many are pointing to this game as an important one for head coach Gary Kubiak. The team was expected to take a step up this season and a loss at home to the Raiders could really put the target on his back. So expect this offense to open up the playbook, attack all levels of the Raider defense and come out firing. If Slaton is churning out yardage, then Schaub will be efficient. If they cannot run the ball, Oakland will stick around and make things interesting.

On Defense:

Kubiak has talked about his unhappiness regarding the pass rush. He would like to see his front-four get to the opposing passer more often, and more importantly, he wants to see the Texans front-seven improve upon the league’s worst 205 rushing yards allowed per game.

Oakland can run it. And the Texans know it.

More importantly though, they would like continue Russell’s woes by getting to him when he drops back and covering his inexperienced targets.

Bernard Pollard was signed recently and he could see his first action against the Raiders. “We’re just not consistent [in the secondary],” coach Gary Kubiak mentioned. “We’re searching for some answers. We’re playing a lot of people back there. We’re going to continue to do that. We’re going to give some more guys some opportunities.”

What to Expect:

It’s time for Mario Williams to have a coming out party. He was shut-down by Mario Henderson last season and if the Texans want to continue to derail Russell’s season, they will need to rattle him with pressure and not allow break downs in the secondary, as the Raiders have had problems getting anything going consistent via the passing attack.

GAME NOTES

• Robert Gallery is out (fibula) as well as WR Nick Miller (shin). Hiram Eugene is questionable with his calf injury.
• The league fined Richard Seymour $7,500 for pulling Ryan Clady’s hair last Sunday.

KEY MATCH-UPS

Mario vs. Mario

LT Mario Henderson will need to have a second straight solid game versus DE Mario Williams if Oakland wants an upset victory on the road. “It was a good game for me to see where I was at,” Henderson said of his performance last season against Williams, “and it was a good feeling, too, to know that I can play.”

Which run defense plays toughest?

Both defenses are struggling against the run. Which one will play with more intensity, which one will play physical and which one will ultimately slow the other’s attack?

PREDICTION

Texans 31 – Raiders 17

TV & RADIO

The game will be televised on CBS with Gus Johnson providing play-by-play and former NFL player Steve Tasker handling color analysis. The game will air locally on KPIX Channel 5. The game will also air in Sacramento on KOVR Channel 13 as well as on KHSL in Chico, KION in Monterey and KJEO in Fresno. The game will air on Raiders Radio originating on KSFO 560 AM, the Silver and Black’s Flagship for the multi-state Radio Network. Greg Papa and former Raiders player, assistant and head coach Tom Flores will man the booth for the 12th straight year. The radio pregame show and postgame show will feature Raider Legends George Atkinson and David Humm along with KSFO’s Rich Walcoff. (Broadcast information cited from official Raiders web site)

GAME INFO

Sunday, October 4, 2009, 1 p.m. ET | Reliant Stadium, TX

Home Team: Houston Texans (1-2) Home: 0-2 Road: 1-0

Road Team: Oakland Raiders (1-2) Home: 0-2 Road: 1-0

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

The Oakland Raiders have made it a point of emphasis to bring back the same cast of characters on special teams this off-season. The Silver & Black will have Justin Miller returning kickoffs again in 2009 after he signed a two-year deal.

Miller, 25, gave a jolt to the Oakland return teams midway through the 2008 season after being cut by the New York Jets. His 32-kickoff returns for 794 yards and two scores helped the Silver & Black finish strong and gave a boost to a special teams that already had one of the top punt returners in the league.

Miller handled kickoffs once acquired, and with punt returner Johnnie Lee Higgins having a breakout season, the pair accounted for five of the team’s 27 touchdowns.

Tennessee was reportedly pursuing Miller’s services, as ex-Raider and current Titan return man Chris Carr was shopping himself around the league.

With the move, Oakland continues to keep continuity on special teams with players they feel can come together to form one of the better units in the league. They re-signed Isaiah Ekejiuba, Tony Stewart, Jon Alston, and Jon Condo since the season ended. John Fassel, who the team feels will inject more life to the coverage teams, will now coordinate that group, and with the return of Tyvon Branch, Oakland will look at special teams as one its strengths and a unit that will help them win more games.

RAIDERS ADD COACH

Aaron Pelch, who was an assistant coach at Millsaps College, will join the Raiders as an assistant to John Fassel.

“Aaron did a tremendous job for us these last three years at Millsaps” Mike DuBose said.  “He is a very talented individual that will be in this profession for a long time.  We wish him the best.“

WILLIAM JOSEPH ALSO KEPT

Defensive tackle William Joseph also signed a deal, but terms have not been disclosed. The former first-round draft pick of the New York Giants played sparingly in 2008. According to reports, he was in for Monday workouts in Oakland.

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

QUARTERBACK — B-

 JaMarcus Russell followed last week’s solid performance with more steps forward toward his development. He showed great accuracy along with his arm strength today. More importantly, he went through his progressions and didn’t lock in on his targets. Russell’s interception in the 4^th quarter was careless, as he put too much air underneath that toss intended for his tight end. He stayed with the play and made the tackle on Sabby Piscitelli 84-yards later, but more importantly, he responded with a 3-play 66-yard drive that ended in a 12-yard strike to Johnnie Lee Higgins to cut the Tampa Bay lead to 24-21. Russell showed good bounce back ability after the late adversity and his offense responded with 17 unanswered points to cap the road victory. He ended 14-of-21 for 148 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.

RUNNING BACKS — B+

 The game-ball goes to Michael Bush. The second year pro shouldered the load when Justin Fargas and Darren McFadden were lost for the afternoon due to injuries. His 27 carries for 177 yards were vital. Bush’s 67-yard gallop to give the Raiders a 28-24 4^th quarter lead deflated the Buccaneers and their crowd. He impressively closed the game, showing toughness after taking a big hit to the helmet that dazed him. Oakland took a time out after that play, Bush recovered and then answered with a run of 19 yards to the Tampa Bay 9 yard line. He even was able to draw a pass interference flag on a Bucs’ defender on a halfback option pass that was under thrown to Todd Watkins. The penalty gave Oakland 43-yards.

WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS — B-

 Higgins had a solid outing with 6 receptions for 52 yards and a 4^th quarter score. He ran routes well, got open enough to make an impact and showed that he may just be more than a return specialist with his improved play at wide receiver as the season wound down. Chaz Schilens put together his second straight three-reception game, tallying 46 yards and his 2^nd career touchdown. Zach Miller had a 28-yard haul off a beautiful play fake by Russell that set up the Raiders on the Tampa Bay 8-yard line before they took a 14-7 lead in the 2^nd quarter. Prior to that play, on 3^rd and 4, Russell also hit Schilens for 19-yards.

OFFENSIVE LINE — A

 The offensive line ended a rough 2008 season with a solid showing. They weren’t dominant like earlier in the campaign versus Kansas City, but against Monte Kiffin’s creative schemes, they gave Russell a nice pocket consistently to step into his throws and allow him time to scan the field. They wore down the Buccaneer front seven as the game wound down; opening up large lanes for Bush. Mario Henderson, starting his fifth consecutive game at left tackle was stout and Jake Grove, who came out early in the game with an injury, got back on the field to finish the game strong. This group allowed one sack, a play in which Russell could’ve got rid of the ball as he rolled out towards the sideline.

DEFENSIVE LINE – C

 The Buccaneers did rush for 125 yards and started getting large chunks of yardage in the 2^nd half after the Raiders held them to 46-yards at halftime. Gerard Warren was disruptive against the run in spurts and Derrick Burgess, although he didn’t record a sack, forced Jeff Garcia to run around the pocket this afternoon. Greyson Gunheim recorded his first career sack to end the game.

LINEBACKERS — A

 This groups stuggled in recent weeks defending short routes and going up against running backs that are adept at catching the ball out of the backfield. Today, Kirk Morrison was where he needed to be on check-downs, dump offs and screens. Morrison compiled 13 tackles to end the season with a team high 135. Thomas Howard was very good in coverage.

SECONDARY — B-

 No Nnamdi Asomugha, no problem. The secondary played well even though there was a breakdown on Michael Clayton’s 58-yard touchdown reception. Justin Miller, who was used more often today due to Asomugha’s absence, bit on Clayton’s double move and had no help over the top. He redeemed himself in the 4^th quarter with tight coverage on Antonio Bryant, pinning him near the sideline and slowing him down on Rashad Baker’s interception. Hiram Eugene showed very good route recognition and almost had an interception.

SPECIAL TEAMS — A

 Shane Lechler had 6 punts for an average 47.7 per. He dropped three inside the 20-yard line, including one that went for 69-yards. Higgins continued his solid efforts on punt returns, racking up 67 yards on 4 opportunities. Justin Miller had 4 kickoff returns for 90 yards.

COACHING – A

 Could this win save Tom Cable? That remains to be seen, but his best was saved for last, as he outshined Jon Gruden and had his team playing at a high level against a club that was playing for their playoff life. He mixed up the run and pass well, called a key time out late to give Bush a breather after taking a big shot and was efficient in the play calling. Cable had a lot of young guys in key roles as the season wound down, and with a lack of pop on offense all season, he was able to improve the attack as the year ended. Rob Ryan didn’t get much out of Trevor Scott, who started this afternoon. But the linebackers played a lot better today than in recent weeks and the secondary, playing without their best player, did an admirable job on the road. Raiders scored 17 unanswered to end the game and shut down Gruden’s offense after Carnell Williams second touchdown. 

 

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

 

On Sunday, the Houston Texans (7-7) will try to extend their winning streak to a franchise record fifth straight when they visit the Oakland Raiders (3-11).

Neither club is making the playoffs, but the upstart Texans are shooting for their first nine-win season with victories to close out the season and a fourth straight win in their all-time series against the Silver & Black.

The emotional wear and tear of the season has tested Oakland’s young passer, as he stated this week, “It’s tough to tell the guys to keep fighting, just to keep pushing, that things are going to turn around.” JaMarcus Russell continued, “Everybody looks at each other like, ‘When?’ It’s really depressing.”

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

Oakland ranks 31^st in total yards per game, 32^nd in passing yards, 30^th in total points scored and 32^nd in third down conversion rate. The abysmal numbers are widespread on offense. Pick a category and Oakland is most likely ranked near the bottom of the rankings.

The one thing they could do earlier in the season was run the football. But even that part of their game has sputtered. In the final two weeks, the one thing the Raiders should showcase is their rookie rusher.

Darren McFadden has been a disappointment due to his injuries, the staff’s lack of creativity in using him and the ineffectiveness of the offense to balance itself out enough to make him a threat.

It’s time to feed McFadden the football, feature him the rest of the way and let him give some glimmer of hope for this offense’s future.

What to Expect:

Mario Henderson will be in at left tackle again. Kwame Harris shouldn’t see action the rest of the year and at this point, this glimpse of Henderson could go a long way in determining whether or not he can play on this offensive line in 2009.

Head coach Tom Cable has relegated him to the bench most of this season. And even with Harris’ struggles, Henderson was kept on the sidelines because of a perceived lack of passion in his game.

“It’s taken longer than I think anyone would have liked, but we’re seeing signs of it now, and that’s a good thing,” said Cable.

On Defense:

“It’s very frustrating,” said defensive end Derrick Burgess regarding his side of the football.

“I’ve been here four years. It’s the same defense. We’ve been running the same defense for four years. To still have these same kinds of problems is hard to explain.”

That is an indictment on Rob Ryan. And because of Ryan’s inability to field a consistent defense during his time in Oakland – even though talented young players are scattered on this defense – his days are likely numbered.

What to Expect:

Nnamdi Asomugha has struggled in recent weeks. And even though he did face one of the better receivers this league has ever seen last weekend, it appears that the first time pro-bowler has hit a wall. It doesn’t get any easier this weekend, as the league leader in receiving yards comes into town.

The Raiders need to generate more pressure from their front-seven or they’ll fall victim to a passer that has compiled 698 yards in his last two contest.

HOUSTON TEXANS

On Offense:

Matt Schaub has posted big passing numbers the last two weeks. With Andre Johnson being the best wide receiver in the game and Owen Daniels’ 60 receptions for 714 yards, it is easy to see why the Texans have the 4^th ranked pass attack in the league.

Kevin Walter, their third leading receiver, has more receptions (57) and receiving yards (859) than any Raider target.

What to Expect:

Rookie Steve Slaton has become the featured back in Houston. And with the Raiders horrendous rush defense, you can expect the former West Virginia star to run circles around Ryan’s bunch. Slaton has run for 1,124 yards – 7^th in the NFL – averaging a stellar 4.9 yards per carry.

If Johnson does not have big game, expect Walter or Daniels to get open on shallower routes and have a field day against a struggling linebacker crew that was chasing targets the last two weeks versus San Diego and New England.

On Defense:

The sensational linebacker DeMeco Ryans leads the defense. The team leader in tackles sounded confident this week about this weekends match-up.

“Yeah, we expect our team to go out there and win,” Ryans commented. “We’re not looking at Oakland as a cakewalk or anything like that. Even though a lot of people may expect us to win this game, we still understand that Oakland, they can get it done. If we go out there and we don’t play our game, they can definitely get it done. They have some great playmakers out there. It’s still the NFL.

“Everybody has their day. Everybody has their day to shine. We just can’t let them shine on us.”

What to Expect:

Mario Williams was voted to his first pro bowl this week. And now he faces a left tackle trying to find a niche in this league. It appears that Williams has cemented himself as a pass rushing menace in this league after bumps on the road early in his career.

“It was a lot thrown at me,” Williams said. “I’m thankful for it because I’ve seen so much stuff and I guess it kind of made me grow up a lot faster than I would expect to.”

Williams will get to Russell this weekend. How many times? I think Henderson is in for a long day.

GAME NOTES

• The Raiders have been outscored 110-45 since their last win at home versus the New York Jets.
• Both Ashley Lelie (calf) and Ronald Curry (toe) could miss the game. Johnnie Lee Higgins, who has been one of the few sparkplugs this season for Oakland, will start. Oakland should try to get the ball to Higgins in space, as he is very good once the football in his hands weaving through traffic.
• DE Trevor Scott leads all rookies with five sacks.

KEY MATCH-UPS

Asomugha vs. Johnson

The best confrontation of the day! They’ll one-up each other, but can the Raiders defense the other targets Schaub has to his disposal?

Miller Time!

Justin Miller has back-to-back games with kickoff returns for touchdowns. Will three be the charm?

The Slaton Sleigh

The rookie is a good pass catcher as well. If Oakland cannot contain him, this will be a blowout.

PREDICTION

Texans 29 – Raiders 16

TV & RADIO

The game will be televised on CBS with Bill Macatee providing play-by-play and former Raiders QB Steve Beuerlein handling color analysis.  If sold out per NFL blackout rules, the game will air locally on KPIX Channel 5. The game will also air in Sacramento on KOVR Channel 13 as well as on KHSL in Chico, KION in Monterey and KJEO in Fresno. The game will air on Raiders Radio originating on KSFO 560 AM, the Silver and Black Flagship for the multi-state Radio Network. Greg Papa and former Raiders player, assistant and head coach Tom Flores will man the booth for the 12th straight year. The radio pregame show and postgame show will feature Raider Legends George Atkinson and David Humm along with KGO’s Rich Walcoff. (BROADCAST INFORMATION CITED FROM OFFICIAL RAIDERS WEB SITE)

GAME INFO

Home Team: Oakland Raiders (3-11) Home: 1-6 Road: 2-5

Road Team: Houston Texans (7-7) Home: 5-2 Road: 2-5

When and Where: Sunday, December 21, 2008, 1:05 p.m. PT | Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, Oakland, CA

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

QUARTERBACK — D

A game of peaks and valleys for JaMarcus Russell; with far more bad play than good in a contest that got out of hand early. He ended 17-of-31 for 242 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. Due to the Patriots jumping out in front, the Raiders opened up the playbook and let Russell throw it around. Today he was wildly inaccurate in spots, overthrowing Chaz Schilens on a slant in the 1^st quarter and then making poor decisions; going down the field to Schilens when he had an open Darren McFadden on a dump off with space for him run after the catch. His targets didn’t help him, as Ronald Curry dropped a short crossing route on a 3^rd and 9 in the 1^st half, Zach Miller dropped an easy score in the 3^rd quarter and Johnnie Lee Higgins got handcuffed on what would’ve been a big gainer. Other pitiable moments included: Russell stripped by Mike Vrabel early in the game, which led to an 8 yard loss on a 3^rd and 9, on a roll out, he tried to release the football across his body and fumbled which he fell on for the recovery and on a audible on 2^nd and 2 from the Patriots 24-yard line, he left a pass way short of his intended receiver which fell into the hands of Jonathan Wilhite, ending a drive that could’ve led to points. The Raiders tried to mimic the success Joe Flacco had in torching Ricky Brown by sending Russell out on a pattern with Michael Bush throwing a pass that the quarterback could not haul in. Russell’s 10-yard pass to Curry on a fade pattern showed nice touch.

RUNNING BACKS — C-

Why does it take so long for McFadden to get touches in these games? His first action came in the 2^nd quarter. And when they got him in, the Raiders attempted a run out of the ‘Wildcat’ formation that gained no yards. When the Raiders incorporated him into the passing game, he showed his elusiveness and play-making abilities, as McFadden finished with 3 receptions for 68 yards. Oakland needs to use him more often on runs to the edges. He picked up 12-yards on a pitch in which he beat Patriot defenders to the sideline. His blocking leaves a lot to be desired still, but there are no excuses for not having McFadden out there as much as possible. Justin Fargas carried the ball 15 times and tallied 70 yards rushing.

WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS — D

Zach Miller led this group once again with 5 receptions for 60 yards. He dropped an easy score, but his block was able to spring loose Higgins on his 56-yard touchdown. Higgins had 3 catches for 66 yards, but could’ve had another big play on his stat line if not for a drop in the 3^rd quarter. On his touchdown reception in the 1^st quarter, Higgins showed good vision in the open field – similar to when he is returning kicks. Curry had 2 grabs for 19 yards and appeared hindered by an injury during the game.

OFFENSIVE LINE — C

No Kwame Harris, no problems at left tackle. Mario Henderson played well replacing the vilified free-agent acquisition. Cooper Carlisle was flagged for holding on a first down run by Fargas and Robert Gallery had a false start on the game’s second drive; one of the first three drives that were three and out for Oakland. Not a bad day overall considering recent performances by the offensive line. Only two sacks allowed, but Russell was flushed out of the pocket frequently which made it more difficult for him to get the ball down the field accurately.

DEFENSIVE LINE – F

The Patriots ended with 277 yards rushing. Heck, they made LaMont Jordan look good with his 12 carries for 97 yards, which included a 49-yard scamper for a touchdown. Matt Cassel wasn’t pressured enough and the Patriots offense looked like a well oiled machine when they got in the end zone in their first five possessions. Trevor Scott tallied two sacks (has four in the season; his first two came against the Jets), replacing an ineffective Kalimba Edwards and had a nice stop behind the line of scrimmage, tackling Jordan for a 3-yard loss. Jay Richardson also saw some time in the 2^nd half in place of Derrick Burgess, who has not been able to turn up the field and get to the quarterback consistently. Since his return from injury four games ago, Burgess has not been able to record a sack. On a 3^rd and 2 in the first quarter, Burgess was flagged for offsides, and at that point, the Patriots were 5-for-5 on 3^rd down conversions.

LINEBACKERS — F

This group had their worst outing of the season. Thomas Howard was non-existent and Kirk Morrison spent most of the day chasing down Kevin Faulk who had 6 receptions for 66 yards and 1 touchdown. The Patriots confused the Raider linebackers with misdirections, screens and shallow routes all day.

SECONDARY — F

Randy Moss and Wes Welker beat up on the Raiders secondary today. Nnamdi Asomugha lost many confrontations against his former teammate, most notably in the 3^rd quarter when Moss had consecutive catches of 11 and 14 yards before ending the drive with his second touchdown of the day – a 9-yard haul that made the score 42-14. On both scores, Moss turned his back to ‘the Black Hole’ and pointed to the back of his jersey to incite more boos from the crowd. Asomugha has played sub par football in recent weeks and today; he got flagged three times in the secondary (one was not accepted, as he was beat by Moss for 13 yards on the reception). Gibril Wilson recorded his second interception of the season when Ben Watson botched a perfectly thrown ball by Cassel.

SPECIAL TEAMS — C-

In consecutive games, Justin Miller has kickoff returns for a touchdown. Last week against San Diego, he ripped a 92-yard return in the second quarter. Today, he scored on a 91-yard dash that made the game 28-14 in the second quarter. On the ensuing kickoff, Ellis Hobbs torched the Raider coverage teams with a 95-yard return of his own that deflated the crowd and propelled the Patriots back up 35-14. Hiram Eugene had a couple of solid special team tackles, but Shane Lechler today had an average – by his standards – day, punting 6 times at a 43.5 clip in the steady rain fall. Sebastian Janikowski had an extra appoint blocked in the 3^rd quarter.

COACHING – F-

Tom Cable needs to find ways to get McFadden in the flow of the game a lot quicker. Oakland has no comeback-ability. And the Raiders seem to dig themselves a big hole, taking them out of what they want to do on offense and then forcing the ball into the hands of Russell with no flow to the attack. Rob Ryan takes a big hit after this game and his days on the sidelines for the Raiders are numbered. The Patriots did what they wanted on offense. Yes they executed well and put Cassel in spots where he can move the ball around to his rushers on shallow routes and crossing patterns. But Oakland’s defense had no fight in it and barely made an attempt to slow down an offense that moved the ball up and down the field with relative ease.

EXTRA POINTS

• After missing some time this week due to the death of his father, Matt Cassel ended with a career high four touchdown passes. He ended the game 18-of-30 for 218 yards and 7 carries for 18 yards.
• In their return to Oakland, former Raiders LaMont Jordan and Randy Moss combined for 164 total yards and 3 scores.
• The Raiders notched their second offensive touchdown of the season in the first half with Higgins 56-yard reception. That was the first time they hit paydirt in their last 20 possessions.
• At the half, New England had rushed for 160 yards and led the Raiders 21-5 in first downs.
• Oakland became the first team in NFL history to lose at least 11 games in six straight seasons.

QUARTERBACK — D-

JaMarcus Russell left the game in the 2^nd quarter with a right ankle injury and according to the the NFL Network; x-rays taken at the stadium were reported to be negative. He was 9-of-13 for 68 yards and was accountable for three turnovers (2 interceptions and 1 fumble), which led to 17 points for the Chargers. Russell’s first interception was thrown into an area with three defenders and was one of the few tosses in 2008 that showed his immaturity in reading coverages. Andrew Walter came on in relief and finished the game 8-of-17 for 61-yards and 1 interception. He was inaccurate and unsettled while experiencing many of the dilemmas Russell has faced throughout 2008; a hapless offensive line and a lack of playmakers at the skill positions.

RUNNING BACKS — D

Justin Fargas led the team with 50 yards on 12 carries. But his effectiveness was curtailed after San Diego jumped out to an early lead. Darren McFadden was used sparingly and did not look explosive or fully incorporated into the game plan. On the Silver & Black’s second play of the game, McFadden was put in motion and upon the snap, Russell tossed a swing pass his way but it was stuffed for no gain. The rookie had a lackluster effort on a screen pass from Walter on a 4^th down play. Michael Bush made a cameo appearance but was a non-factor.

WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS — D-

Zach Miller’s 8 receptions for 64 yards were the lone bright spot in another wretched performance by the offense. Johnnie Lee Higgins and Ronald Curry combined for a uninspiring 4 receptions for 37 yards.

OFFENSIVE LINE — F

Why does Tom Cable continue to trot Kwame Harris out there? He added to his league leading penalty total (had a face mask penalty and a holding flag declined) and was inept with his run and pass blocking. John Wade wasn’t any better, as the starting center was flagged for holding during a drive in the 3^rd quarter when Oakland actually had converted a first down. On a screen to McFadden, Wade was out of position and became a roadblock for the rookie when he got tackled for no gain. Cornell Green was put on his backside on Russell’s second interception of the game. Green’s inability to hold his ground led to the turnover when Russell got hit as he released his pass. On that same play, Russell was injured and lost for the night.

DEFENSIVE LINE – D-

Whether it was versus the run or when the Chargers took advantage of their undisciplined play on screens, the Raiders defensive line looked overmatched and confused throughout the game. Tommy Kelly was flagged for unnecessary roughness after a play, which erased a 3^rd and 7 at the San Diego 7. Ultimately, that possession ended with a Darren Sproles 8-yard scoring reception on a drive that covered 96 yards on 15 plays for the Chargers.

LaDainian Tomlinson had his way with the Raiders once again, tallying 16 carries for 59 yards at the half and ending with 91 rushing yards and one score.

LINEBACKERS — D

The trio of Thomas Howard, Kirk Morrison and Jon Alston had difficulties covering and getting to Darren Sproles, who had 3 catches for 34 yards – two of those going for scores.

The linebackers got caught in traffic during screens and were out of position throughout the lopsided contest.

SECONDARY — D

Nnamdi Asomugha was beat on the game’s third play when Philip Rivers connected with Vincent Jackson on a 46-yard bomb. Oakland’s best cornerback was out of position and uncharacteristically flagged for pass interference on Jackson, but the Chargers accepted the result of the play instead. Chris Johnson had his first rough outing since inserted into the starting line-up. Jackson gave him fits all night, notably on the 59-yard catch that put the Chargers up 24-0 in the 2^nd quarter. Gibril Wilson had a difficult night as well, missing a few tackles on the shifty Sproles.

Jackson ended with 5 grabs for 148 yards and one score.

Malcom Floyd’s lone reception for 19 yards on 3rd and 8 continued a drive that ended in a Nate Keading 39-yard field goal.

SPECIAL TEAMS — A

Justin Miller provided the lone highlight for the Silver & Black with his 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. That gave the Raiders their second special teams touchdown of the season in the first half, one more touchdown than they have scored on offense all season before halftime. Isaiah Ekejiuba forced a fumble in the 4^th quarter on a punt return and Shane Lechler placed three of his punts inside the 20 yard line while averaging 46.9 yards on 7 punts.

COACHING – F

The team came out uninspired, undisciplined and not ready to play. That’s an indictment on the coaching staff, as the team showed no emotion during a nationally televised game, extending their abysmal record to 0-10 in primetime games since 2005. Tom Cable has not developed a personality for this offense, something they had when Lane Kiffin was the coach. They cannot run the football consistently now and their creativity is non-threatening. The Raiders defense has struggled against the run since 2003. And Tomlinson has made a career of embarrassing the Raiders. The all-world Charger rusher didn’t put up jaw dropping numbers, but he did get the yards needed to put the game away early. Oakland was flagged 6 more times for 70-yards, and could’ve been flagged for a few more plays if not for the Chargers opting to nullify the flags.

EXTRA POINTS

• Miller amassed 174 yards on 6 kickoff returns for an average of 29.0 yards per return.
• Shaun Phillips had 5 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Stephen Cooper recorded 2 interceptions.
• Oakland secured their sixth straight season with at least 10 losses. Their streak is the longest active in the NFL and tied for the second-longest in league history.

MIAMI, FL – On the game’s opening drive, the Oakland Raiders in typical fashion looked out of sync, were non-threatening and went three and out. A Cooper Carlisle false start penalty on the first play put them in 1^st and 15 hole they could no dig themselves out of.

Then the Miami Dolphins drove 9 plays and 93 yards for a 7-0 lead.

On 3^rd and 7, the Raiders were flagged for a neutral zone infraction (Trevor Scott), which made the down a manageable 2-yard. On the ensuing play, Chad Pennington rushed for 7 yards and a 1^st down. Ultimately the drive was capped off by Ted Ginn’s first career rushing touchdown from 40-yards out.

Ronald Curry was the Raiders lone threat on their next drive, as he converted two first downs on receptions of 10-yards on the drive’s first play and a 9 yard grab on 2^nd and 8. But a deep toss to Curry, that was slightly under thrown by JaMarcus Russell, was broken up by cornerback Will Allen.

Allen blitzed on 3^rd and 8 a few plays later and got a sack, ending the Raiders drive.

Miami sputtered on their next drive. Tommy Kelly took down Pennington on 3^rd and 10 for his third sack of the season.

Johnnie Lee Higgins had a punt return of only 5-yards, as Jon Alston missed an assignment on the play.

Score: Miami 7 – Oakland 0

MIAMI, FL – The Oakland Raiders have designated CB Michael Waddell, FB Jason Davis, DE Derrick Burgess, LB Ricky Brown, C Jake Grove, T James Marten, WR Javon Walker and QB Andrew Walter (3^rd QB) as inactive players for today’s game versus the Miami Dolphins.

For the home team, WR Ernest Wilford, CB Joey Thomas, G Shawn Murphy, Lionel Dotson, T Nate Garner, TE Joey Haynos, DE Rodrique Wright and QB John Beck (3^rd QB) will be inactive.

Line up changes are the following:

• #87 Ashley Lelie will start at WR for the injured Walker.
• #71 John Wade will start at Center for Grove.
• #58 Kalimba Edwards will start again at DE for Burgess. Sam Williams will start for Brown.

 DB Justin Miller, picked up from waivers earlier in the week will wear #22. 

So much can change within a year. Unless you’re the Oakland Raiders (2-7), who are mired in awful play once again this season and are looking down the barrel of a sixth straight losing season. The Miami Dolphins (5-4) on the other hand are rebuilding and have direction under new management. And after a one-win season a year ago, the Tony Sparano led Dolphins will look to avenge a 35-17 loss at home to the Silver & Black in 2007.

OAKLAND RAIDERS

On Offense:

Oakland has gone nine straight quarters without scoring a touchdown. They are last in the NFL in points scored per game (12.6), total points scored (113), passing yards per game (139.2), percentage of 3^rd down conversions made (22%) and 31^st in 1^st downs per game (13.2). And now, interim head coach Tom Cable will take over the play calling duties, stripping Greg Knapp of those responsibilities after being outscored by opponents 117-35 since the firing of Lane Kiffin.

“I feel responsible for where we’re at offensively,” Cable said on Wednesday. “With that being the case and my nature and my personality I’ve got to find a way to do more and help where I can. I really haven’t been active in that role, obviously as the line coach, but I feel that responsibility now and want to shoulder that responsibility so I’m more involved.”

What to expect:

Miami is the 9^th best rush defense in the NFL, but you can expect Cable to keep it on the ground and try to establish the identify Oakland once had as a solid run offense. Since Kiffin’s departure, the one thing they did do well was abandoned due to the staff wanting to see more big plays down the field. Since, the offensive line has gotten worse and now, they cannot find a rhythm with the ground game. They’ll need Darren McFadden to play to get any production on offense. After missing a few games, Cable expects that his speedy rookie can be a factor on Sunday. “We’re not making any plays on offense in terms of a playmaker, an explosive-type play. We have to hopefully get [Derrick Burgess and McFadden] back as soon as possible and hopefully this is the week for Darren to be back.”

On Defense:

Derrick Burgess practiced this week for the first time since Oct. 6. He was limited, but it appears that he may be able to take the field on Sunday.

“We got to find a way to get Derrick Burgess back out [on the field]…” said Cable this week.

In their last seven games, the Silver & Black has allowed 175.2 yards rushing per game. With Ricky Williams topping the 100-yard barrier last week for the first time since 2005 and Ronnie Brown having a wonderful season, the Raiders defense could be in for another long day.

What to expect:

Oakland does not have a good run defense. And Sparano would love instill toughness onto his inspired club. They can start this week by bullying the Raiders. Oakland has to stack the line of scrimmage and play press coverage in order to force mistakes out of the weak armed Chad Pennington. If they can take away the short routes by playing the Dolphins’ wide receivers tight, force deeper tosses out of Pennington and load up with the front seven in order to slow down the run, that will be their only shot at keeping this game close into the 4^th quarter.

MIAMI DOLPHINS

On offense:

Chad Pennington’s decision-making and steady play has helped this Miami offense. But the resurgence of Ricky Williams and the versatility of Ronnie Brown has helped pace them to their first winning record since ending the 2005 season at 9-7.

Greg Camarillo (47 rec. 504 yards 1 TD) and Ted Ginn Jr. (34 rec. 457 yards 1 TD) are their go to guys at wide receiver. But when they are near the goal line, Pennington looks for tight end Anthony Fasano, who leads the club with three scoring receptions.

What to expect:

The offensive line, especially the left side; featuring rookie Jake Long and Justin Smiley, is what keeps this offense from sputtering. If Burgess doesn’t play, the Raiders may not be able to generate enough pressure to bother Pennington. And if the Dolphins control the trenches, then Pennington, who is one the leagues best play action passers, will fiddle with the Raiders secondary.

On defense:

Joey Porter is enjoying one of his finest seasons as a pro, as he leads the NFL in sacks (12) in leading this 18^th overall ranked defense.

The three down linemen on this 3-4 alignment; Vonnie Holliday, Jason Ferguson and Kendall Langford have played admirably in stopping the run. And the secondary has compiled four interceptions over the last three games. The defensive backfield has been susceptible to big yards, but players like Yeremiah Bell have been able to come up with big plays when they need them in crunch time.

What to expect:

John Abraham and Julius Peppers have victimized Cornell Green and Kwame Harris in back-to-back weeks. The Dolphins don’t feature a threatening defensive end, but they’ll scheme ways to get pressure at the tackle spots in order to disrupt any passing game the Raiders try to install. As long as they play the run well, and keep Justin Fargas, Michael Bush and McFadden from big games, then they shouldn’t have much of a problem defending the rest of the Raiders attack.

GAME NOTES

 

• Newly signed cornerback/kick returner Justin Miller was observed wearing no. 22 on Thursday. The speedster will boost an already good return teams that has punt/kick returner Johnnie Lee Higgins. Miller was a second round draft choice of the New York Jets in 2005 and enjoyed All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections in 2006.
• JaMarcus Russell, Andrew Walter and McFadden all took snaps on Thursday. Jake Grove remained out with his calf injury and linebacker Ricky Brown as well with his groin.
• Javon Walker remains a mystery for Sunday. He is listed as doubtful and an inactive designation for this weekend seems likely.
• The Dolphins have won six of the last seven contests against the Raiders, but Oakland leads the all-time series 16-11-1.
• Last year, Justin Fargas emerged as Oakland’s leading rusher against the Dolphins when he posted a career high 179 yards after LaMont Jordan was lost to an injury. A win this weekend will give the Raiders their first back-to-back victories against Miami since 1986.

KEY MATCH-UPS

Will Oakland play aggressive and stack the line of scrimmage?

If they don’t, Miami will run the football effectively and Pennington will use his ball fakes to manipulate the Raiders defensive backfield. Nnamdi Asomugha and the rest of the Raider secondary should press and get physical with the Dolphin receivers. They must jam and disrupt them at the snap and not allow Pennington to get in sync with his short tosses.

Porter vs. Oakland’s pass protection

The Dolphins linebacker is having a huge year. And with game film of the Silver & Black’s struggles in recent weeks in pass protection, expect the former Steeler to attack the inconsistent edges along the Raider offensive line.

PREDICTION

Dolphins 26 – Raiders 16

TV & RADIO

The game will be televised on CBS with Ian Eagle providing play-by-play and former NFL performer Solomon Wilcots handling color analysis. The game will air locally on KPIX Channel 5. The game will also air in Sacramento on KOVR Channel 13 as well as on KHSL in Chico, KION in Monterey and KJEO in Fresno. The game will air on Raiders Radio originating on KSFO 560 AM, the Silver and Black Flagship for the multi-state Radio Network. Greg Papa and former Raiders player, assistant and head coach Tom Flores will man the booth for the 12th straight year. The radio pregame show and postgame show will feature Raider Legends George Atkinson and David Humm along with KGO’s Rich Walcoff. (Broadcast information cited from official Raiders web site)

Home Team: Oakland Raiders (2-7) Home: 1-4 Road: 1-3

Road Team: Miami Dolphins (5-4) Home: 3-2 Road: 2-2

When and Where: Sunday, November 16, 2008, 10:00 a.m. PT | Dolphin Stadium, Miami, FL