Silver and Black Report

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

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

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

OFFENSE

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

DEFENSE

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

SPECIAL TEAMS

• Jon Condo LS – UFA
• Bryan McCann – UFA

OFFENSE ANALYSIS

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

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

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

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

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

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

SPECIAL TEAMS ANALYSIS

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

DEFENSE ANALYSIS

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

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

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

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

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

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MIAMI – Kevin Burnett’s illegal contact penalty negated a Carson Palmer interception, when the Raiders faced a 3^rd and 28.

Oakland continued the drive, faced a 3^rd and 9 a few plays later, Burnett made up for his mistake with a sack of Palmer – a loss of 8-yards.

Miami’s Davone Bess returned Shane Lechler’s ensuing punt for 21-yards, giving the Dolphins the ball at the 37-yard line.

On 2^nd and 8 – Matt Moore rolled out of pocket and found Anthony Fasano for a key 26-yard reception. Moore hit Fasano again for 10-yards, before Reggie Bush carried the football for 11-yards.

Davone Bess continued his torment of the Raiders with a 12-yard scoring reception, giving the Fins a 13-0 lead at the 8:24 mark. The drive amassed 63-yards on seven plays. Aaron Curry, who has struggled in coverage, on the move in the middle of the field.

Oakland finally showed signs of life on offense with a reverse to Louis Murphy for 15-yards, a Palmer toss to Michal Bush for 16-yards and another Murphy run before stalling.

Palmer was unable to connect with Kevin Boss on back-to-back plays and on 3^rd and 9, Darrius Heyward-Bey was unable to catch a ricocheted ball off Boss’ hands.

Daniel Thomas ran for 21-yards on Miami’s next drive. The possession ended after Jake Long was flagged for a 15-yard penalty and Miami gained very little on a 3^rd and 28.

Oakland got to the 2:00 warning scoreless, 1-5 on 3^rd downs and with 68-yards of total offense.

Palmer then got into a rhythm with Chaz Schilens, hitting the target for 16 and 30-yard son back-to-back plays. A third completion to Heyward-Bey was negated by a Khalif Barnes penalty (2^nd of game). Vontae Davis then sacked Palmer, and an incomplete on 3^rd and 27 ended the Raiders best drive of the afternoon with a 1:24 left.

Miami converted a 3rd down with under a minute to go, after Oakland used up their time outs, as they took a 13-0 lead into halftime.

STATS:

Oakland 1-6 on 3rd downs.

Time of possession: MIA 18:65 OAK 11:04

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

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

Michael Bush, RB

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

Carson Palmer, QB

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

Aaron Curry, LB

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

The Raider Offense…

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

T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR

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

Stanford Routt, CB

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

Kamerion Wimbley, LB

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

Sebastian Janikowski, K

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

Raiders passing attack…

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

Chaz Schilens, WR

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

The Raider Nation…

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

Hue Jackson

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

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The Oakland Raiders infirmary list was pretty lengthy on Tuesday evening.

Eleven players did not participate in practice, just two days before their highly anticipated game versus the San Diego Chargers on national television.

Both teams are 4-4 and tied atop the AFC West. The Chargers want payback after Oakland swept them last year. And it appears that the Silver & Black will be without a few of their key players, or have a few of them not at full strength.

It’s almost a given that running back Darren McFadden will be inactive for a second consecutive game. He was seen with a protective boot again Tuesday, a week after being on crutches due to his foot sprain.

Expect Michael Bush to start again and carry the load with Taiwan Jones as his back up.

Along the offensive line, starting center Samson Satele (knee) and right tackle Khalif Barnes (shoulder) were held out of action, but neither is expected to miss the pivotal game on Thursday.

Richard Seymour (ankle) and Mike Mitchell (ankle) did not practice and were held back mainly for precautions and/or rest, and will likely play.

Sebastian Janikowski, who kicked gingerly versus the Broncos and was clearly hindered by his hamstring injury, did not practice. Dave Rayner, who kicked for Oakland during their trouncing at the hands of the Chiefs, signed with the Buffalo Bills today.

Chris Johnson (hamstring) is still ailing and rookie cornerback DeMarcus Van Dyke (hamstring) joined him on the sideline. Another member of the secondary, Michael Huff, has been slowed with an ankle injury.

For the Chargers, Ryan Matthews is expected to play and share carries with Mike Tolbert.

The official injury report to the league won’t be released till tomorrow.

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Here’s a summary of the best and worst for the Oakland Raiders (8-8) in the 2010 season:

MVP (Offense)

Darren McFadden, RB

By far Oakland’s most valuable offensive performer with 1,664-combined yards from scrimmage. Ten times he hit paydirt with either amazing runs or impressive scampers after catching the football.

Honorable Mention:

Robert Gallery, LG: He played next to a rookie for most of the season and is the steadiest along the trenches.

MVP (Defense)

Tommy Kelly, DT

Led all AFC tackles with 7.0 sacks and was the most consistent performer along the defensive line all season.

Honorable Mention:

Nnamdi Asomugha, CB: The best cornerback in the NFL. Made the Pro Bowl, was barely tested all year and was hobbled towards the end of the season.

LVP (Least Valuable Player) – Offense

Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR

The coaches can rave about his work ethic all they want, facts are, he has poor instincts as a receiver and is headed towards bust status.

Honorable Mention:

Chaz Schilens, WR

Nine catches for 40-yards and one score for the season. Most of 2010, he was injured and/or recovering from his ailments.

LVP (Least Valuable Player) – Defense

Chris Johnson, CB

Far too often, the target of opponents with Asomugha on the other side. The beneficiary of DeAngelo Hall’s departure in 2008, cashing in on his three interceptions, 12 passes defended and a forced fumble after replacing the dumped corner.

Honorable Mention:

Thomas Howard, LB

One of the locks to clean out his locker room for good this week. Barely made it onto the field in 2010.

Best Coach:

Hue Jackson, OC

Oakland ranked 31st in offense in 2009 and scored 197-points. In 2010, they ranked 10th and ended with 410-points.

MVP Special Teams:

Jacoby Ford, KR

Exciting to watch and always electric with the football in his hands. Had comparable stats to all the top return men in the AFC and had three kickoffs for scores.

Get Back Healthy:

Trevor Scott, DE/LB

Went on injured reserve. Wherever he played, Oakland got production. A solid veteran on and off the field.

Best 1^st Year Raider (non-rookie)

Kamerion Wimbley, LB

The Raiders got a starting linebacker and nine-sacks from Wimbley in 2010. All they gave up was a third round choice.

Best 1^st Year Raider on Offense (rookie)

Jared Veldheer, LT

Yes, you can make a case for Ford, but Veldheer played more reps at a tougher position as a rookie. Now, he looks to be the Silver & Black’s left tackle for years to come.

Best 1^st Year Raider on Defense (rookie)

Lamarr Houston, DE

Five sacks and improved play as the year went on. Beats out first rounder Rolando McClain, by far.

Underrated Player of the Year

Matt Shaughnessy, DE

Seven sacks and solid edge play all year. He has the look of a defensive end that will have a long and fruitful career. And if he continues to produce those types of sack numbers, he’ll be a very rich man very soon.

Honorable Mention:

Rock Cartwright, RB

Fiery vocal veteran that was unsung on special teams all season.

Energizer Award:

Mike Mitchell, SS

Loves to blitz, savors landing big hits. Even if the impact isn’t grand, he’ll get up and let you know it was.

The Perfect Timing Award:

Michael Huff, FS

Was in on 77-tackles, had 4.0 sacks and 3 interceptions. A possible unrestricted free agent, Huff may look to cash in. Still inconsistent, but at least he has numbers to justify his contract demands.

Best WR who is not a WR:

Marcel Reece, FB

Looked sharper in his route running than Heyward-Bey, Louis Murphy or Johnnie Lee Higgins.

Honorable Mention:

Khalif Barnes, OL

No other Raider wide receiver was money. HA – seriously, two targets and two completions including a touchdown.

Say Farewell to…

• Bruce Gradkowski, QB: Jason Campbell belongs under center, without the fragile Gradkowski looking over his shoulder.
• Nick Miller, PR: Provides little when he actually returns a punt and doesn’t fair catch it deep in own territory. Does not look like a pro on the field.

We should see more of in 2011…

• Finding ways to get Jacoby Ford the ball in space. Bubble screens, receiver screens, end arounds and more importantly, receptions down the field, as he develops into a well-rounded receiver.
• Blitzing: Wow, when Tyvon Branch, Huff or Mitchell came in from their safety spots, Oakland did a lot of damage to opposing passers.
• The Michael Bush & McFadden combo: The Raiders need to keep that tandem together to spearhead their offense.

We should see less of in 2011…

• Blackouts – There you go fans; the Raiders just gave you a .500 season. Now fill the seats and support during home games.
• AFC West victories: It is unlikely the Raiders sweep their division again in 2011. If they do, they better take care of business outside the AFC West.
• Heyward-Bey: I know he gets paid a lot of money, was a 1^st rounder and the owner wants to see him succeed, but it will be a shame if one of the younger wide-outs get less reps because of DHB’s presence.

The Raiders will miss…

George Blanda and Jack Tatum. Oh, the players will miss Tom Cable if he’s not giving another year at the helm.

The Raiders have not missed…

JaMarcus Russell

Best Hit(s)

Rolando McClain slamming Danny Amendola and knocking out Darren Sproles.

Best Moments:

Sebastian Janikowski after nailing the game winning FG in overtime vs. Chiefs

• Raiders blocking back-to-back punts vs. the Chargers and building an early lead against their rivals. Eventually, the crowd was treated to a last second defensive stand that featured a Tyvon Branch 64-yard fumble return for a score.
• All 59-points during Oakland’s annihilation of the Broncos.
• The three-game winning streak before the bye week.
• Ford’s opening kickoff of the 2^nd half and overtime victory against the Chiefs.
• Any of McFadden’s dazzling runs, especially his 36-yard run vs. the Jaguars with 1:53 left in the game that was capped with a jolting stiff arm.
• Closing the season at Arrowhead with a victory.

Worst Moments:

• Sebastian Janikowski missing a 32-yard field goal in Arizona as time expired during the Raiders 24-23 loss versus the Cardinals.
• Failing to win back-to-back games at San Francisco, and losing to the winless 49ers, 17-9.
• Allowing 205-rushing yards to the Titans in the season opener.
• Losing two ten point leads at Jacksonville.
• Back-to-back losses, at Pittsburgh where they got dominated physically, and against Miami, which was a lackluster effort.

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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

QUARTERBACK: A

Dare I say, Jason Campbell was Rich Gannon-esque in his play this afternoon versus the San Diego Chargers! The Oakland Raiders passer was efficient, poised and gave the team a chance for positive plays on every snap this afternoon. Campbell on 3^rd and 7 during Oakland’s first scoring drive pump faked, was chased from behind and ran for 6-yards to set-up a 4^th and 1. On the next play, his ball handling was masterful, executing a beautiful fake handoff and then bootlegging untouched from 9-yards out to give Oakland a 7-0 lead. At the start of the next drive, he connected with his fullback after getting away from Shaun Phillips, for 11-yards. Ten plays later, Campbell increased the Raider lead to 14-0 with a touchdown lob to Jacoby Ford from 4-yards out. His legs were important; breaking containment on a 2^nd and 9 for 12-yards on another scoring drive and rushing for 9-yards on 3^rd and 7 up the gut of the Charger defense before Oakland went up 21-3. Campbell’s pocket presence was stellar and his leadership was on display when he chewed out the rookie receiver when aligned wrong and forced to use a time out. His finest play came in the 2^nd half when he adlibbed, dishing the football to Michael Bush after being pressured and almost sacked – a gain of 24-yards on 2^nd and 12. On 3^rd and 1 in the 4^th quarter, Campbell fooled the everyone with nifty ball handling, on a play action pass that ended in  Louis Murphy’s hands for 37-yards. He ended 10-of-16 for 117-yards, one score and 0 interceptions [105.5 rating]. He also ran for 37-yards.

RUNNING BACKS/FULL BACK: A

Darren McFadden was productive after a two-week hiatus. He was explosive, powerful and the game-breaker Oakland sorely missed during losses to the Steelers and Dolphins.  His fumble at the end of the first half could have proved costly, especially because the clock was ticking and Oakland could’ve ran into the halftime with all the momentum. But San Diego did not capitalize on the turnover when Nate Kaeding missed a 50-yard field goal attempt in the closing seconds of the 2^nd quarter. McFadden’s best work came in the 2^nd half; a 19-yard reception on 3^rd and 5 on the opening drive of the 3^rd quarter, a 20-yard run on the ensuing play, a 5-yard gain on 3^rd and 5 and the 7-yard run for a score to give the Silver & Black a 28-13 lead. On the pitch, he beat San Diego defenders to the edge and plowed through Eric Weddle at the goal line. McFadden ended with 97-yards on 19-carries and 3 receptions for 30-yards. Michael Bush was used perfectly today, as Oakland mixed both ball carriers to perfection. The bruising rusher tallied 95-yards on 23 carries and a score. Twice, Bush sold Campbell fakes by running into the line of scrimmage and fooling Charger defenders that though he had the ball in his hands. He picked up tough yards all afternoon and his 7-yard scamper, which featured two broken tackles, gave Oakland a 21-3 lead in the 2^nd quarter. Marcel Reece had several run busting blocks. He also had one of the game’s finer plays, hurdling over Brandon Siler on a screen that amassed 23-yards.

WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS: C

The Raiders did not need this grouping today. But Jacoby Ford did continue his solid play with a 4-yard touchdown grab. The play was aided by a Darrius Heyward-Bey screen on Donald Strickland to free up Ford on the fade pattern. Louis Murphy couldn’t get his feet inbounds on a 2^nd and 8 deep ball in the end zone versus Quentin Jammer. Murphy showed great effort on another deep ball that he almost tipped to himself for a completion, before hauling in a vital 37-yard grab to put away the Chargers. Chaz Schilens made his first appearance of the season but was a non-factor in the fame with one-target. Campbell missed the open Schilens on what would have been a 1^st down gain. Zach Miller continues to struggle since his injuries, tallying one catch for 5-yards. Heyward-Bey had a reverse for a second straight contest – today he compiled 13-yards.

OFFENSIVE LINE: A

The team rushed for 251-yards. That’s the most given up by San Diego all season. Jared Veldheer was dominant run blocking on the left side. He played at center when Samson Satele was hurt, but returned back to left tackle to end the contest. Oakland overpowered San Diego all afternoon and pushed around the defensive front when they needed vital yards. The Chargers led the league in sacks coming into the game and they only recorded one; a scramble by Campbell in which he slid at the line of scrimmage to prevent a major loss. The quarterback was kept clean, the running game was dominant – it was one of the better performances in years from this unit. Khalif Barnes was flagged twice, Satele had a hold on a drive Oakland had to punt and Gallery had a false start, but those infractions barely marred what was a cohesive performance. Langston Walker’s personal foul pushed Sebastian Janiwkoski out of range for a field goal attempt.

DEFENSIVE LINE: A

The Chargers managed only 11-yards rushing at halftime. They only gained another 10 the rest of the game, as Oakland took the lead and the Bolts abandoned their ground game. Regardless, the Raiders were stout early and were the more physical bunch when San Diego attempted to get Mike Tolbert going. Lamarr Houston had a pivotal play stuffing Tolbert on a 4^th and short in the 2^nd quarter and then sacking Philip Rivers on a 2^nd and 6 for a 6-yard loss. Tommy Kelly was active, manhandling Tyronne Green for sack no. 6.5 of the season. Desmond Bryant’s roughing the passer flag aided a drive that ended with a Antonio Gates 4-yard score to cut the Raiders lead, 21-13. On that scoring play, Tyvon Branch, Stevie Brown and Rolando McClain had a mix-up that, which freed up the tight end.

LINEBACKERS: B

Rolando McClain’s performance was probably the best of his rookie season. He ended with 7-solo tackles, but more importantly, he was on his assignments versus Tolbert out of the backfield, limiting him to one reception for no gain and shadowing other threats around the line of scrimmage. His physical presence was felt when he cleanly knocked Darren Sproles out of the game with a vicious hit after a 7-yard reception. Kamerion Wimbley was consistently chasing down Rivers, finally getting to the passer for a sack in the 4^th quarter.

SECONDARY: B

Stanford Routt was targeted at one point, so Rivers took advantage of the Raiders cornerback for a few plays in the 2^nd half while working on Seyi Ajirotutu and Malcom Floyd. But otherwise, the defensive backfield fared well against a passer that lit them up for over 400-yards in their first meeting. Rivers ended 23-of-39 for 280 yards, but because of the constant pressure applied, the Raiders’ secondary could get their hands on some tosses. Michael Huff was dominant in the 1^st quarter, recording a sack and an interception. Rookie Stevie Brown landed a big hit on Gates and batted away a potential score on 3^rd and 12 at the end of the 3^rd quarter versus Floyd. Mike Mitchell did an admirable job against Gates, but was stronger as a run defender around the line of scrimmage.

SPECIAL TEAMS: A

Oakland again took advantage of a miscue on special teams when Sproles muffed a Shane Lechler punt in the 1^st quarter (recovered by Hiram Eugene). Lechler did not have much length on his punts, but he did place three inside the 20-yard line. Johnnie Lee Higgins was reliable on punt returns, recording 16-yards on one and Rock Cartwright fielded a short kickoff and tallied 28-yards on the return. Travis Goethel had a solid tackle on Sproles early in the game and Mitchell continues to be an energizer on that unit. Ford had a 28-yard return negated by a Ricky Brown holding penalty.

COACHING: A

The win was the most impressive for the Raiders this season for many reasons. San Diego had an 18-0 record in December since 2006, along with a current four game wining streak and a 7-year winning stretch versus Oakland at Qualcomm. Hue Jackson was masterful in his play calling at times; whether calling a bootleg run that fooled many for a score and that his players sold perfectly, a play action toss that again fooled the cameramen and Chargers for a 37-yard gain or perfectly called screens that consistently hurt a blitzing team that could not get to Campbell all afternoon. Oakland executed perfectly at times on offense and had sustained drives that led to an impressive 38:39 versus 21:21 time of possession advantage. John Marshall applied pressure consistently via blitzes from his linebackers and/or members of the secondary. They were well designed and had Rivers running all afternoon. Even with 13-penalties for 105-yards (Chargers only infracted 3-for-19 yards), Oakland had control of the game and clamped down when needed. Tom Cable has this bunch believing and a performance like this, after losing back-to-back games, on the road, in December, goes a long way in selling the owner why he’s the right man for the job. The defense could attack a one-dimensional Chargers attack once they went up 21-3. Norv Turner then put the game on Rivers’ shoulder and the rest is history. Campbell was poised all day and owned the offense that Jackson put together for this contest.

GAME NOTES:

• The Raiders are 4-0 in AFC West for the first time since 1990.
• Oakland swept the Chargers for the first time since 2001. The Raiders last win in San Diego was in 2002, when a Rich Gannon led Silver & Black won 27-7.
• Cornerback Walter McFadden, running back Michael Bennett, cornerback Chris Johnson, linebacker Bruce Davis, guards Daniel Loper and Bruce Campbell and wide receiver Nick Miller were inactive.
• Oakland rushed 52-times for 4.8 yards per carry.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

The Oakland Raiders (5-4) rallied down by 10 at the half to down the Kansas City Chiefs 23-20 in front of a sold-out Coliseum.

Here are some highlights of the contest:

Jacoby Ford, WR/KR

He amassed 158-yards on returns and 148-yards receiving. “It’s something I’ve been wanting to do ever since I was little,” Ford said. “I went out there, and it was a dream come true to be out there having fun making plays with those guys.” A spectacular 37-yard grab on a 3^rd and 8 in the 4^th quarter, where he was falling down and on his knees while grabbing the football and a game sealing 47-yard gain to set up his kicker foiled the Chiefs. “Jacoby Ford made a great catch to send it to overtime. He made a play.,” said Brandon Flowers of Ford’s 29-yard catch late in the 4^th quarter.

2^nd Half Rally

Oakland came back twice, down 10-0, and again when losing 20-17 after Dwayne Bowe’s 20-yard score. At that point, the air was let out of the balloon and the Raiders were facing a tough defeat in front of their faithful. But Jason Campbell completed tosses to Johnnie Lee Higgins and Ford to give Sebastian Janikowski a 41-yard attempt to knot the contest. The frantic final drive was converted with no time outs and almost thwarted by a Jared Veldheer holding penalty at the Chiefs 41-yard line. “No matter what you do, we’re gonna keep fighting you for 60 minutes. That’s the Raiders,” commented Mike Mitchell.

Run Defense

A dominant Richard Seymour spearheaded the maligned run defense. He devoured Thomas Jones and Jamaal Charles and his teammates; Matt Shaughnessy, Desmond Bryant and Tommy Kelly, all had big efforts in stuffing the team that ranked first in the league rushing at 190 yards per game. “Lamarr (Houston) and (Matt) Shaughnessy holding the edge, turning the run back inside and me and Big Rich (Seymour) clean it up. We’re just executing. I just hope it continues,” stated Kelly in the locker room. Kansas City ended with 104-yards on the ground, and that inability to run hindered the Chiefs normal play calling and what Charlie Weiss could do against John Marshall’s bunch.

The Raiders Staff

Whatever Tom Cable said to them in the locker room at halftime worked. Ford had the 94-yard return for a score to open the 3^rd quarter and the Raiders looked like a different bunch in the 2^nd half. Hue Jackson debuted the ‘Wild Hog’ threw in a flea flicker and stayed aggressive with a passer that was ineffective in the first half. Oakland played without some of their best talents and lost starter as the game evolved. But the team continued to plug away till the final play.

Janikowski

He was 3-of-4, missing a game tying kick earlier in the game. But in the final seconds, he nailed a 41-yarder and then in overtime, booted a 33-yard kick. Oh, and on a wet turf with not the best footing.

Winning Ugly

It wasn’t an epic explosion or an effort we have seen the last few weeks. Oakland was 3-of-12 on 3^rd down, got flagged 15-times, had 3 turnovers and could’ve folded in the first half. They showed strength during adversity and won from behind against the team atop their division. Oakland can now say they can win ugly games and come from behind. “It just seemed like one of those days where nothing could go right,’’ Campbell said. “It’s muddy, it’s wet and you’re trying to grind it out. But the whole time, I got a lot of support from my teammates. They were like, `J, keep fighting, keep working. You’ll work your way out of it.’ ‘

OTHER NOTES

• “He’s a track guy. He can run fast, he can accelerate,’’ Jason Campbell said of Jacoby Ford. “ I was excited to see Jacoby go get that ball. It meant a lot from quarterback standpoint, you see a guy, you put it out there for him and see him burst into another speed and go get that ball, it’s just exciting, not just me but for the whole team.’’
• “It seemed like every play there for awhile,’’ Tom Cable said of the penalties. “I don’t know what the deal is. I know we’re not that undisciplined. I know because I’m there every day in practice.’’
• “It was slow motion because I was like, ‘Oh, I have it (the touchdown).’ And I said, ‘Oh, I don’t have it.’ And I was kind of disappointed. I caught it, and I looked at the ground and I was like, ‘Am I in the end zone?’ I’m in the end zone,” Khalif Barnes said about his touchdown.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Richard Seymour and offensive guard Khalif Barnes speak to the media following their win against the Kansas City Chiefs.

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QUARTERBACK: B-

The Oakland Raiders and Jason Campbell had a tale of two halves. The passer was terrible in the first half going 4-of-10 for 18-yards and an interception. Campbell lofted a toss into the arms of John McGraw in the 2^nd quarter, missing Johnnie Lee Higgins badly as he stepped into the pocket. He also under threw Jacoby Ford on a flea flicker and had a tough time with receivers dropping some passes. But in the 3^rd quarter, he got into a roll with a 16-yard pass to Ford on a designed roll out and got another 15-yards on a dump off to Darren McFadden on 3^rd and 3 (Oakland’s first converted 3^rd down of the game) before hitting Khalif Barnes on a 2-yard pass to give the Silver & Black their first lead at 14-13. In the game tying drive as time expired, Campbell had a vital connection with Higgins for 12-yards on 3^rd and 11 and again threaded a tight pass to Ford for 7-yards on 2^nd and 6. His 29-yard conversion with Ford with 24-seconds remaining set-up Sebastian Janikowski’s game tying 41-yard field goal. Campbell ended 19-of-33 for 229-yards, one touchdown and one interception. More importantly, he’s 3-0 the last three weeks as the starter. “This win was probably the win that does wonders for our season,” Campbell said.

RUNNING BACKS/ FULLBACK: B

Darren McFadden grinded all-day and ended with 89-yards on 17 carries against a stout Kansas City run defense. He added another 25-yards on receptions. McFadden’s run for 34-yards and 15-yard reception set-up Barnes’ score. Michael Bush was ineffective in 5-carries for 17-yards. Marcel Reece had a small stat line, but blocking was key in the ground game, and especially protecting Campbell. Reece kept a defended off his passer at the end of the 3^rd quarter when Campbell hooked up with Brandon Myers for 13-yards. McFadden made a poor decision as a passer, trying to hit Darrius Heyward-Bey downfield in triple coverage. McFadden also fumbled deep in his own territory – leading to a Ryan Succop 43-yard field goal that gave Kansas City a 10-0 lead.

WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS: B

Jacoby Ford was the player of the game. He did drop a long ball on 2^nd and 7 in the 2^nd quarter against one of the best defenders in the AFC West – Brandon Flowers – but he redeemed himself with a miraculous 37-yard grab on a 3^rd and 8 in the 4^th quarter, where he was falling down and on his knees while grabbing the football. That extended a drive that ended with a 23-yard field goal by Janikowski and gave Oakland a 17-13 lead. His catch for 7-yards on Oakland’s final drive in regulation gave them life and his 29-yard haul as time expired pushed the game to overtime. Ford’s 47-yard gain in the extra period was the decisive play of the contest. It was a great individual performance by the rookie, who ended with 6-catches for 148-yards. Johnnie Lee Higgins added 26-yards on 3 catches (ran a nice route vs. Flowers that tallied 12-yards) and Brandon Myers, playing for an injured and inactive Zach Miller, tallied 20-yards on 3-grabs.

OFFENSIVE LINE: C+

The group allowed four sacks and only managed to help the rushers get 112-team rushing yards. But they were steady late when Campbell needed time to go down the field. Khalif Barnes hauled in his first career touchdown. Jared Veldheer had a crippling holding infraction that could’ve cost the Raiders the contest with 30 seconds remaining after Campbell hit Ford for 19-yards. Tamba Hali also beat the rookie for a sack. Robert Gallery was flagged twice and Samson Satele botched a snap that never got to Campbell’s hands.

DEFENSIVE LINE: A

The Chiefs did not break the 100-yard rushing barrier till overtime. Credit the Raiders rush defense for a solid effort against the top running club in the league. Thomas Jones averaged 1.7 yards per carry and Jamaal Charles was corralled for 53-yards. Richard Seymour was dominant (7 solo tackles), Tommy Kelly recorded a sack and Desmond Bryant had his best game as a pro with one sack and one tackle for a loss. Matt Shaughnessy continues to be steady on the edge versus the run and Lamaar Houston was one of the reasons why the Chiefs managed only 43-yards on the ground at the half, and 104 for the game. Seymour shouldve had a fumble recovery in the 2^nd quarter, but failed to maintain possession after getting his hands on the football.

LINEBACKERS: C

Rolando McClain left the game early with a hip ailment and never returned. Ricky Brown played at middle linebacker and ended with 2-solo tackles. Quentin Groves was active all game with his best play coming in overtime, limiting tight end Tony Moeaki to a 1-yard gain on 2^nd and 4. Kamerion Wimbley facilitated a holding infraction on Leonard Pope in the 2^nd quarter after getting position on the fullback. Moeaki did end up with 63-yards receiving.

SECONDARY: B

The Raiders played without Nnamdi Asomugha, so the Chiefs targeted Chris Johnson as the weak link. Johnson was flagged for a 30-yard pass interference before Verran Tucker hauled in his first NFL reception and score against the cornerback to give the Chiefs a 7-0 lead in the 2^nd quarter. Johnson’s play improved in the second half and after the coaches inserted Jeremy Ware for a few plays. Ware recorded his first NFL interception at the end of the first half in the north end zone – a key play as the Chiefs were driving and were up 10-0 with a chance to add another field goal or touchdown on 2^nd and goal. Mike Mitchell was key on the turnover, as he got his hands on the football and deflected it into the rookie’s hands. Michael Huff was in on 8-tackles and had a sack prior to Ware’s pick. Stanford Routt played well, especially in the 2^nd half. Tyvon Branch was shaken up and replaced in the line-up (concussion).

SPECIAL TEAMS: A

Ford’s days as a receiver and kick returner earned him game-ball honors. His 94-yard return for a score to open the 2^nd half ignited a dead Raider club that went into the locker room down by 10. Janikowski missed a game tying 47-yarder in the 3^rd quarter, but nailed the equalizing 41-yard attempt at the end of regulation and the game winner from 33-yards. Nick Miller could’ve been a goat in this contest with his shaky returns and fumble in the 4^th quarter that led to a Dwayne Bowe 20-yard score 5-plays later and a Chiefs 20-17 lead. Rock Cartwright was stellar on the coverage units, forcing a fumble during Javier Arenas’ kickoff return which was recovered by Hiram Eugene. Kansas City’s stellar return teams were contained. Arenas had a 41-yard return negated by a teammate’s infraction.

COACHING: B-

In the first half, Tom Cable & Hue Jackson were in over their heads. The use of challenges early on almost cost the team late, as they couldn’t review Miller’s botch return due to the coach’s decision to dispute calls early in the contest. What you had to like was the diverse play calling; Oakland debuting a few ‘wild hog’ plays with McFadden taking snaps and finding ways to get their star rusher the ball on the edges and a flea flicker. But Cable’s botched 4^th and 6 fake punt with Cartwright was dreadful and not smart considering the position on the field and how the momentum had swung after they stuffed a Arenas fake punt just a few plays earlier. That allowed the Chiefs to jump on the Raiders 7-0. Oakland awoke in the 2^nd half, and you have to credit the coaches for making the right adjustments and keeping the team alive after going into the locker room down 10-0 in front of a sell-out crowd. The Raiders played a fiery 2^nd half, took the lead, faced desperation as regulation wound down and tasted victory in overtime with two of their best players inactive, their rookie middle linebacker hurt and starting strong safety ailing. “It wasn’t the way we draw it up but it was the way it was supposed to be,” Cable said. “We hung in there, fought, hung in there, fought, got a chance, made a couple of plays, made two kicks and now we’re all happy. It’s a great job by our team of really pulling together.”

GAME NOTES

• Oakland won after being down 10-0 at the half. They tallied 15-flags for 140-penalty yards and going 3-for-12 on 3^rd downs. They also had three turnovers and allowed four sacks.
• Jacoby Ford amassed 158-yards on returns and 148-yards receiving. “It’s something I’ve been wanting to do ever since I was little,” Ford said. “I went out there, and it was a dream come true to be out there having fun making plays with those guys.”
• Oakland has won three in a row and are 3-0 against AFC West rivals.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist