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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From Raiders.com

The Oakland Raiders triumphed on the road, beating the Houston Texans, 25-20, a day after the passing of Al Davis. Here are some of the highlights, key plays and players that deserved game-balls during this emotional and memorable victory.

Darrius Heyward-Bey

Davis’ maligned first round selection a few years back posted seven-catches for 99-yards and one touchdown. The significance of the score was paramount. It cut the Texans lead to 14-12 in the 3^rd quarter, and was the second time in as many plays he hooked up with Jason Campbell. Heyward-Bey bolted into the end-zone after breaking a tackle – the first sign of a momentum change in the contest.

Sebastian Janikowski

He was 4-for-4, booming his first three field goals from 54, 55 and 50-yards out. In the 4^th quarter, he extended the Silver & Black’s lead with a 42-yarder, 25-17. Davis took him the first round, a move that was ridiculed by many at the time, today proved to be one of the main reasons why the Raiders were in this contest. When the offense was struggling, Janikowski’s powerful leg took advantage of the short field given, when Oakland’s offense could not.

Lamarr Houston

Houston had his most productive game as a pro. The interception of a deflection early in the contest led to three-points. He blew up runs at the line of scrimmage, was not fooled on a few of Matt Schaub’s bootlegs and play-action, and constantly won his individual match-ups all afternoon.

Richard Seymour

Yes, he had another critical 15-yard penalty late, when Houston was driving, but his two-sacks in the second half crippled any drives Gary Kubiak’s team tried to put together.

Michael Huff

Sealed the game with an interception in the end zone. That football will probably be given to Mark Davis.

John Fassel

The punt block in the 1^st half helped Oakland stay in the contest, giving them a short field and eventually three-points. The fake-punt, which Rock Cartwright took for 35-yards was vital. Mike Mitchell corralled Jacoby Jones, who is a dangerous return man.

Hue Jackson

The emotional outpouring after the win on the sideline demonstrated how difficult the weekend was. He guided this group to a victory, directing one of the most memorable wins in recent Raiders history.

Al Davis

That was his team, playing an inspired contest, after a poor start on offense in the first half. The maligned defense slowed down Schaub, found a way to stop the bleeding versus the run, and kicked up the offense as the game went on. As Davis would say, “Just win, baby!”

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

TRANSACTIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHO’S NEXT?

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

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

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

DRAFT FODDER

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

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

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

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

HUE SPEAKS

Jackson spoke at the Combine in Indianapolis about various topics.

On Jacoby Ford:

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

Who is the defensive coordinator?

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

On Jason Campbell:

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

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

The Oakland Raiders have a lot of decisions to make, mainly on their own players.

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

PLAYERS LIKELY TO STAY

Richard Seymour, DL

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

Stanford Routt, CB

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

Hiram Eugene, S/ST

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

Zach Miller, TE

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

Langston Walker, OL

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

Jon Condo, ST/OL

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

Sam Williams, LB/ST

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

Rock Cartwright, RB/ST

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

PLAYERS ON THE FRINGE

Nnamdi Asomugha, CB

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

Michael Bush, RB

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

Kamerion Wimbley, LB

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

Michael Huff, FS

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

Ricky Brown, LB

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

Samson Satele, C

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

Mario Henderson, T

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

LIKELY GONERS

Thomas Howard, LB

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

Michael Bennett, RB

If Bush is back, Bennett will depart.

Bruce Gradkowski, QB

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

Johnnie Lee Higgins, WR

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

Robert Gallery, G

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

Daniel Loper, OL

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

PICK AND CHOOSE

Kyle Boller or Charlie Frye, QBs

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

NOT GOING ANYWHERE DUE TO SERVICE YEARS

Desmond Bryant, DL

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

Nick Miller, WR/ST

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

Marcel Reece, FB

One of the unsung heroes in 2010.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Darren McFadden, RB

The Case: McFadden has arrived, becoming one of the premier weapons in the league. His performances and value to the Silver & Black is MVP-like. No other rushers in the AFC have more 20+ yard runs or have carried the football with the combination of speed and power that he has. His 5.2-yards per carry is only topped by Jamaal Charles (Chiefs) and Danny Woodhead (Patriots). McFadden has tallied 1,664-yards from scrimmage and 10-scores.

The Verdict: As important as he is to the Raiders and as great as he’s been, McFadden is not a Pro Bowler this season. In the AFC, Arian Foster (1,436 yards 14 TD), Maurice Jones-Drew (1,324 yards), Chris Johnson (1,325 yards 11 TD) and Charles (1,380 yards) have more rushing yards and deserve the selection as well. It’s a numbers game, and he may be the one left out and not going to Hawaii.

Nnamdi Asomugha, CB

The Case: Opponents have competed only 10 receptions on Asomugha for 156 yards and no touchdowns (27 attempts). Even injured, the cornerback has drawn the respect of quarterbacks.

The Verdict: A lock to represent the Silver & Black in the NFL’s all-star game. Although he may take that time to heal instead.

Richard Seymour, DT

The Case: Has 5.5-sacks, six tackles for losses and more importantly, is the unquestioned vocal leader of the defense. Without Seymour, the front-seven looks entirely different and would effect Tommy Kelly’s production.

The Verdict: He can be powerful and dominant at times, but Seymour should miss this Pro Bowl because of the play of his teammate. Selecting two defensive tackles from a team that allows 134.9 rushing yards per game would be foolish. Kelly does take advantage of the play of his line mate and Seymour is the bigger name in the landscape of the NFL, but my nod would go to the Kelly.

Zach Miller, TE

The Case: Arguably, the best blocking and receiving tight end in the AFC. Miller mimics a tackle when blocking along the edge and has been productive throughout his career in a anemic offensive attack. This year, Oakland’s offense took a major step forward and Miller hauled in 55-receptions for 654-yards and five scores.

The Verdict: Antonio Gates, Benjamin Watson, Dustin Keller and Marcedes Lewis all have better statistics. Not playing versus the Chiefs in week-nine and lingering injuries has limited his potential the ladder part of the campaign. Sadly, one of Oakland’s more reliable offensive players will not be in Hawaii.

Tommy Kelly, DT

The Case: Leads the team and all AFC tackles with 7.0 sacks. Kelly has elevated his play this season.

The Verdict: Read above justification. Only one can go, Seymour may be the bigger name and a big help for Kelly, but the 29-year old should be recognized for his performance in 2010.

Jacoby Ford, KR

The Case: Only Brad Smith (Jets) and Marc Mariani (Titans) have more kickoff return yards. But he has one more score than Smith and two more than Mariani. Ford has altered or kept the Raiders in games with his kickoffs, as a rookie.

The Verdict: Smith will be his biggest obstacle. Ford is deserving of the selection, especially if you take into consideration how much more he provides on offense than Smith.

Shane Lechler, P

The Case: Lechler again has the highest average in the conference (47.0) and net average (40.6) per punt. Even with his powerful leg, he’s been able to drop 26 punts inside the 20-yard line (7^th best in the AFC). Still the best punter in the league.

The Verdict: I’ll be shock if he is not catching tanning in February.

Sebastian Janikowski, PK

The Case: Janikowski leads the NFL in scoring (135 points), field goals made (32) and he’s 28-of-33 within 49-yards. Only Dan Carpenter has more attempts 50+ yards out, and Janikowski has converted the same amount as the Miami kicker.

The Verdict: Last year he was steady. And the one blip versus Arizona hurts his chances. But he’s been the best place kicker in the AFC.

OTHER NOTABLE PLAYERS:

Marcel Reece has tallied 25-catches for 333-yards and three scores, but is not looked at as a traditional fullback. Not likely he’ll be in Hawaii.

Rock Cartwright has been a integral part of the special teams coverage units, so he may get some consideration. Jon Condo is the league’s best long snapper – a center that can get downfield as well to make tackles on punts and kickoffs. He was added to the Pro Bowl roster as a need player last year, so he has a slim chance at it, again.

FINAL TALLY:

Oakland got back to respectability this year, so many of their players garnered a lot of attention. McFadden was their best player, but players with bigger years statistically may prevent him from getting a deserved berth to Hawaii. Asomugha, Lechler, Janikowski, Ford should be representing the Silver & Black. If they get lucky, the Raiders could get Seymour or Kelly in.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

QUARTERBACK: B-

Jason Campbell’s first half statistics were respectable; 12-of-17 for 87-yards. But the offensive output for the team was horrendous. Zach Miller dropped a potential 1^st down on a 3^rd and 4, Campbell’s arm was hit as he released the football by Robert Mathis on a 3^rd and 9 and was pressured on another 3^rd and 9 when Jared Veldheer was beaten by Dwight Freeney. One of his best passes was a 10-yard strike to Louis Murphy on 3^rd and 6 in the 2^nd quarter and a 9-yard conversion to Chaz Schilens on a 3^rd and 5 on the same drive. Oakland was able to take a 13-10 lead four plays later on a field goal. He orchestrated a controlled right before halftime, spiking the ball with one-second remaining to give the Raiders another shot at a score. One of the few questionable decisions he had was on 3^rd and 9 in the fourth quarter, when he attempted to hits his tight end on a pass thrown behind him, instead of running for more yardage.

RUNNING BACKS/FULLBACK: C

The coaching and offensive line directly affected their lack of production. The speed of the Colts front-seven prevented big plays on screens and sweeps. Michael Bush had a 15-yard gain during the scoring drive in which the Raiders tied it at 10 and Oakland took the lead 13-10 on the strength of Darren McFadden’s 26-yard scamper to start that possession. McFadden only had six carries for 33-yards at halftime, not enough touches for the MVP of the team. Marcel Reece was ineffective, and his holding infraction negated a Bush 16-yard gain. McFadden ended with 45-yards rushing and 31-yards receiving.

WIDE RECEIVERS/TIGHT ENDS: D

Chaz Schilens tallied his first two catches of the season for 16-yards. Darrius Heyward-Bey has some miscommunication with Campbell on a hitch on 2^nd and 9 in the 1^st quarter, but hauled in a nine yard pass to start their first drive in the 2^nd quarter. He almost broke away from a defender after getting his legs cut out from underneath him on a 11-yard catch. Jacoby Ford had two-catches, his best a 17-yarder early in the 4^th quarter during a drive that the Raiders cut into the Indianapolis lead to 24-19. Murphy had 36-yards on two receptions. Zach Miller’s score with 1:51 left in the game brought Oakland within 31-26. The tight end ended with nine catches for 66-yards.

OFFENSIVE LINE: D

Oakland had 60-yards rushing at the half and 80 at the end of the contest. Langston Walker was inactive and replaced by Mario Henderson at right tackle. Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis combined for 2.5 sacks and made Campbell’s day unsteady in the pocket. Robert Gallery saved his passer in the 1^st quarter, fending of Freeney after Veldheer was blown away at the line of scrimmage. Veldheer was flagged for a hold and false start on the same drive in the 4^th quarter.

DEFENSIVE LINE: F

No Richard Seymour meant a shuffling along the trenches for the Silver & Black. Lamarr Houston played all over the interior of the defense, but was overpowered at times and was thoughtless with his unnecessary roughness penalty that aided a Colts scoring drive right before halftime that gave them a 17-13 lead. His actions will likely land him a fine, as tempers flared on the next play when Ryan Diem retaliated and caused a scuffle. Kamerion Wimbley saw action at defensive end, but was ineffective and neutralized during runs. Oakland could not near Peyton Manning and rarely put him in frantic situations. John Henderson had his moments with nine solo tackles and one pass defended. The Colts out gained the Raiders 191-80 on the ground in Dominic Rhodes’ [98-yards rushing] return to Oakland and Joseph Addai’s [45-yards] first action since week-six. “There’s no magic to it,” coach Jim Caldwell said. “We’re running the same plays, running the same defense. We were just playing what we do, and doing it a little better.”

LINEBACKERS: D

This group had their problems with crossing routes and was trailing a few times in coverage. Even though Manning only had 179-yards passing, the linebackers did very little to make their presence felt. Roland McClain was running with Jacob Tamme during Michael Huff’s interception.

SECONDARY: B

Stanford Routt had a tough drive late in the 3^rd quarter, flagged for pass interference and beaten by Blair White for a score, which increased the Colts lead to 24-16. Chris Johnson was Manning’a bull’s-eye a lot of the afternoon, but the cornerback demonstrated great hand-eye coordination intercepting a slant that was tipped by Rolando McClain and bobbled before the pick. He almost had another interception earlier in the contest, but Pierre Garcon broke up the pass as Johnson put his hands in on it. Johnson did get flagged for pass interference on 3^rd and 17 before the half, when Manning and Tamme torched Tyvon Branch in coverage for a 18-yard score. Nnamdi Asomugha won the majority of his match-ups versus Reggie Wayne. “There’s not a quarterback that I’ve played against that controls the game the way that he does, and handles every situation and is basically the coordinator on the fly,” Asomugha said of Manning.

SPECIAL TEAMS: A

This group kept the Raiders alive for most of the contest. Jacoby Ford’s 99-yard kickoff return for a score to open the game was electric. After Shane Lechler’s first attempt, which had little power behind it, the ailing punter bombed five kicks, one for 63-yards which was covered instantly by Hiram Eugene and Rock Cartwright. Stevie Brown recorded another stuff during punt coverage and Cartwright forced a holding penalty after bolting through the line of scrimmage and almost getting to the Pat McAfee. Sebastian Janikowski nailed a 59-yard field goal attempt (2^nd longest in team history) and booted three other attempts from 38, 51 and 45-yards.

COACHING: D

Tom Cable coached loose when he sent Janikowski out for a 59-yard field goal attempt down 10-7 early in the game. But the team showed little life after that on offense and was kept in it because of an opportunistic special team. There are no excuses for getting out-rushed by a team that ranks 32^nd on offense running the football and 28^th stopping the run. McFadden did not get enough touches, the offense did not get its first 1^st down till the 2^nd quarter and did not reach the red-zone till the 4^th quarter. Too many three and outs, not enough sustained drives and eventually, the Colts will get to you. Manning toyed with the Raiders at the end of the contest, getting Branch to declare the defense’s intentions and then calling an audible that led to a Garcon score to give them a 31-19 lead before calling a bootleg that netted 27-yards to end the contest. Oakland fought hard till late, but they were listless for most of the game. You have to wonder if being eliminated from any post-season positioning due to Kansas City’s 34-14 romp over the Titans effected their disposition. “The guys were trying not to pay attention to it,” Jason Campbell said. “We were just really trying to focus on our game. That’s the situation you’re in when you have to count on other teams. It’s a tough situation to be in.”

GAME NOTES

• In back-to-back weeks, the Colts stuffed Maurice Jones-Drew and Darren McFadden, and teams with top ranked ground attacks. [67 yards vs. Jacksonville & 80 yards vs. Oakland]
• Colts are one win away from clinching the AFC South title for their ninth straight playoff berth.
• Oakland had 10 penalties for 116-yards. The Raiders were also 4-15 on 3^rd downs.
• Ford joins Ike Thomas of the 1971 Cowboys as the only players in NFL history to take the opening kickoff back for a TD twice in the same season. Ford did it November 28 versus the Dolphins and today versus the Colts. He is the only Raider to return opening kickoffs for a score in team history.
• “That’s a heck of a running team. They do a good job; big strong offensive linemen, backs that can certainly run. Our guys did a nice job overall. They had six three and out, one four an out, weathered the storm, showed some poise,” Jim Caldwell after the game about the Raiders offense and the job his defense did.
• “All we did was win today,” Manning said about the Colts playoff hopes. “We have to find a way to win again next week.”
• Manning tied former Raiders OL Gene Upshaw for the most consecutive starts to begin a career with 207.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

OAKLAND, CA – The Oakland Raiders showed life on defense to start the 4^th quarter with a Desmond Bryant sack on 3^rd and 4 from the Miami 47-yard line.

On the ensuing play, Rock Cartwright busted through the line of scrimmage and nearly got his hands on a punt.

Bruce Gradkowski on the next play again under threw rookie Jacoby Ford on a deep toss, but the receiver made a spectacular catch, snatching the ball away from Chris Clemons at its highest point and coming down hard on the turf with a 52-yard gain.

The Raiders drive ended with a Sebastian Janikowski field goal from 30-yards out to cut the Dolphins’ lead, 23-17.

Miami answered with an efficient drive that started with Ronnie Brown runs for 5 and 8 yards. Then, Brown broke a Nnamdi Asomugha tackle and scampered for 5-yards before Brian Hartline beat the star cornerback for the Raiders for an 8-yard gain. Chad Henne a few plays later connected with Davone Bess for 29-yards, beating Walter McFadden again.

Seven plays later, Dan Carpenter nailed a 25-yard field goal to give the Dolphins a 26-17 lead with 4:03 remaining.

After a blown up screen, Gradkowski connected with Louis Murphy for 17 yards. On 2^nd and 10, Ford recorded 6-yards on a catch and on 3^rd and 4, Ford was unable to haul in a errant Gradkowski pass.

Facing a 4^th and 4 from the 46-yard line, Oakland’s woes on offense all afternoon came to an end with a poorly tossed ball by Gradkowski to Johnnie Lee Higgins that could’ve kept the drive alive.

Ricky Williams scampered for a 45-yard touchdown with 3:12 remaining to end any hope of a Raiders comeback. Miami led 33-17.

The Dolphins at that point had racked up 475-yards of total offense and 24 first downs. They were 9-of-18 on 3rd downs and owned the edge in time of possession.

FINAL SCORE: Dolphins 33 – Raiders 17

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

The Oakland Raiders (5-5) will try to get back on track this week in preparation for their match-up against the Miami Dolphins. Most of the players admitted that their loss to the Steelers was a bump on the road, and not a derailment.

The majority of the locker room reasoned that that was not the real Raiders that got pushed around in Pittsburgh. And more importantly, that the lost re-focused them during a true litmus test to gauge their ranking in the AFC.

“That wasn’t us. We didn’t play the way we normally play,’’ said Rock Cartwright. “Take it in stride, put it behind us, and go forward with the next game because you can’t beat a dead horse. We’ll go and watch the tape, go forward and get ready for Miami this week.’’

When they start picking up the pieces and get back to work, Oakland will be without the services of Trevor Scott. The DE/LB sustained a torn ACL on his left knee yesterday and will likely be out the season. Scott has been one of the steadiest members of the defense dating back to late last season, whether at end or at outside linebacker.

The story that gained the most notoriety out of the contest on Sunday was Richard Seymour’s ejection. Oakland’s defensive lineman was booted at the 1:23 mark in the 2^nd quarter for swinging at and connecting with Ben Roethlisberger.

The open-handed attack will land Seymour a hefty fine, but could it cost the Raiders one game without their anchor?

Seymour was fined $7,500 last season for an incident against a Denver lineman and $10,000 for contacting a Cleveland Brown during a dead ball. Because of the NFL’s strict guidelines with protecting passers and the nature of the play, its foreseeable to expect him to miss at least one game due to his actions.

Teammate Quentin Groves stated, “You get suspended for anything right now, but I don’t know. I’m going to let commissioner Goodell and the powers that be decide that. If he’s there he’s there, if he’s not we have to still get ready to go out and play Miami.”

Mike Tomlin took the high road yesterday, saying, “I got big-time respect for Richard Seymour as a football player. That guy’s got an 11-year resume that’s pretty impressive as a professional. I’m not going to let that play cloud my opinion on Richard Seymour. I think he’s an awesome football player and a professional. It just got away from us, all parties involved today.”

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

The Oakland Raiders have been getting special contributions from Rock Cartwright all season. Since signing a one-year deal in April, the veteran has been a reliable presence on and off the field for the Silver & Black.

A teammate of Jason Campbell’s in Washington, Cartwright has provided invaluable support to the passer, young players and made John Fassel’s unit a solid one in 2010.

He was phenomenal against the San Diego Chargers with his blocked punt at the start of the contest that gave the Silver & Black a quick 2-0 lead. On the ensuing play, he wisely let the free kick bounce out of bounds so Oakland can start their possession at midfield.

The always supportive teammate was quick to credit his coach for putting players in the right spot after that victory. “We saw they were questionable at some spots and Bones [Fassel] did a great job drawing it up,’’ Cartwright said. “We needed a lift after what happened last week.’’

Last week versus the Chiefs, Cartwright’s hit on Javier Arenas jarred the football loose into the hands of Hiram Eugene. And lets not forget the key block on Jacoby Ford’s 94-yard kickoff return for a score.

It seems that anytime the Raiders have a stellar outing on special teams – Cartwright is a player always involved in the action.

He realized early in training camp that was his ticket onto the roster. And his prophetic words have rung true all season…

“I’ve returned kicks. On punts, I was the personal protector. So, I’ve been around. I was in Washington my whole career and that’s kind of what I do, play special teams. So, whatever I can do to help the team win, that’s what I want to do.’’

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist