Silver and Black Report

With the hiring of Jason Tarver as the new Raiders defensive coordinator, it has been speculated that the Raiders may try and transition to the 3-4 defense. Tarver has mostly been around the 3-4 defense in his tenure with the San Francisco 49er’s and the Stanford Cardinals.

It remains to be seen yet if Tarver is going to implement a 3-4 defense, but he may intend to in the long run while he obtains the appropriate personnel to do so. The Raiders currently have players on the roster that fit the 3-4 mold, but would need to add some pieces to institute the 3-4 correctly.

One factor that may play into a transition to the 3-4 defense if finding a way to escalate the play of

middle linebacker Rolando McClain. McClain played in Nick Saban’s 3-4 defense while attending Alabama and earned the Butkus Award in 2009, given to the nation’s best collegiate linebacker. McClain was questioned as to whether or not he would succeed as an inside linebacker in the 4-3 coming out of college and has largely not lived up to his expectations yet in Oakland.

Linebacker Aaron Curry, winner of the 2008 Butkus Award, could work as an inside linebacker next to McClain. Curry is a stout rush defender but has struggled in defending the pass. With head coach Dennis Allen’s exotic blitz packages, it could be beneficial to Curry due to his ability to get to the quarterback and to stop the run.

Linebacker Kamerion Wimbley, who played defensive end at Florida State, was originally drafted by the Cleveland Browns to play outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense. Wimbley responded by having 11 sacks in his rookie year, but then saw his sack numbers diminish before being traded to the Raiders in March 2010. Wimbley has since played well for the Raiders at the linebacker position, while being lined up as a pass rusher on passing downs.

One player that could struggle should the Raiders move to a 3-4 is defensive end Matt Shaughnessy. Shaughnessy has played well at defensive end, recording 92 tackles and 12 sacks in 35 games played for the Raiders. At only 270 pounds, Shaugnessy may be asked to move to the outside linebacker position for his pass-rushing abilities.

Defensive end Lamarr Houston has the athleticism and versatility to play as either a 3-4 defensive end or 4-3 defensive tackle. While playing for the University of Texas, Houston played both defensive end and defensive tackle. Houston’s size, 6’3” and 305 pounds, along with his tenacity and motor make him an ideal candidate to be a 3-4 defensive end opposite of Seymour.

Pro Bowl defensive tackle Richard Seymour has previous experience playing in the 3-4 defense. While on the Patriots in 2003, Seymour started 14 games as a 3-4 defensive end and finished with eight sacks and 57 tackles.

A difficulty that the Raiders may encounter should they try and run the 3-4 scheme is the lack of a true nose tackle on the team. In order to run the 3-4 successfully, the defense must have a big-bodied nose tackle in the middle to take up space and help stop the run. The leading candidate currently on the team to be the nose tackle would have to be Tommy Kelly, who is listed at 6’6” and 300 pounds.

If Tarver and Allen should choose to run a 3-4 base defense, they may need to try and find a true run-stuffing nose tackle to insert in the middle of the defensive line. They will also need to pick up depth at the inside linebacker position. For now, it appears that the defense will play both the 4-3 and 3-4 fronts as Allen stated, as it may take a couple of years to gain the personnel necessary for a full-time 3-4 defensive scheme.

The Oakland Raiders now have a defensive coordinator and his name is Jason Tarver.

But what does the hire of the 37-year-old Tarver mean for the Raiders defensive scheme? Tarver has dominantly ran a 3-4 base in his coaching history.

Tarver begin his coaching career as a quality control coach across the bay for the San Francisco 49er’s, where he eventually moved up the ladder to become the outside linebackers coach from 2005-2010.

In 2009, Tarver coached the outside linebackers to producing 15 turnovers, 17.5 sacks and nine forced fumbles. The 49er’s as a whole finished the season with 44 sacks, 21 forced fumbles (tied for first in the NFL) and allowing only 17.6 points per game.

Tarver was hired by David Shaw to be the co-defensive coordinator at Stanford last season. Under Tarver, Stanford finished second in the Pac-12 in total defense, and 28th in the nation.

What is interesting is that Tarver has mostly been around a 3-4 scheme in his time at The Farm and with the 49er’s, while defensive-minded head coach Dennis Allen has mostly ran a 4-3 when running the defense.

Allen stated in his introductory press conference that he did not believe in running just one base scheme, but that he wanted to show multiply fronts on defense. It is possible that Allen will go back on his previous word and have an input on defense, while allowing Tarver to get his feet wet and install 3-4 plays until the Raiders have the correct personnel to run Tarver’s scheme.

A difficulty that the Raiders may encounter should they try and run the 3-4 scheme is the lack of a true nose tackle on the team. In order to run the 3-4 successfully, the defense must have a big-bodied nose tackle in the middle to take up space and help stop the run. The leading candidate currently on the team to be the nose tackle would have to be Tommy Kelly, who is listed at 6’6” and 300 pounds.

No matter what scheme they run, Allen and Tarver have their work cut out for them as they attempt to fix a Raiders defense that finished 29th in the league. The defense also gave up 30+ touchdown passes and 5.0+ yards per carry, marking the first time a team has done such a thing since the Dallas Texans did in 1956. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers also suffered the same accomplishment this past season.

Although it may seem like Allen settled for Tarver as the defensive coordinator, Allen got a young bright defensive mind that has experience coaching in the NFL. Allen only looked to the college ranks to fill the coordinator vacancy after he exhausted his NFL talent pool, often being denied permission to talk to his desired personnel.

Here are five things on the to-do list for new Oakland Raiders head coach Dennis Allen and general manager Reggie McKenzie.

Empower Carson Palmer

The coach and general manager did that on Monday. “Carson Palmer is extremely excited about what we have going here,” Allen said. “He’s looking forward to the future and he’s excited about the opportunities here.”

McKenzie inherited the passer, but he’s by far and away the most polished quarterback Oakland has had since Rich Gannon. With a training camp and off-season conditioning under his belt this time around, he should be primed for a solid season. Just remember, he was thrown into the fire after a semi-retirement and never played a game with Darren McFadden in his backfield.

Get Rolando McClain on the right track

“I see a very talented football player. Just like a lot of things that we’ve talked about already, we’ve got to do our best to make sure we get Rolando to play at the best of his ability on every single snap,” Allen said.

There’s no questioning the middle linebacker’s mental acuity for the game. But his lack of impact plays and slow development has been frustrating for fans. Add to that his off the field issues, and the word bust begins to flash. He was seen as a sure fire prospect coming out of college, but entering his third-year, more will be expected out of him due to a new coach in place that will try to cater to his abilities.

If Allen can’t get this kid going, he’ll need a change of scenery. Oakland hopes to be the beneficiary of McClain’s arrival as a stud in this league.

Keep Darren McFadden & Michael Bush together

Stop all this trade McFadden chatter. Really! Yes, the Raiders currently have a small allotment of draft picks, but what would trading your most dynamic weapon on offensive accomplish?

You won’t get equal value, especially since he’s fragile and teams will cite his inability to play 16-games as a reason not give adequate compensation. Plus, whomever you draft with those picks may not provide the same impact that McFadden can on the 2012 team.

McFadden may never play a full complement of games, but that’s why Bush needs to remain and why both should share the load a tad more. Hue Jackson fed McFadden way too much and ultimately, we saw that Bush could handle a bigger load and not just in short yard or red zone situations.

The tandem has to stay together, as I stated here:

One big decision for Raiders McKenzie, what to do with RB Bush?

And

Cotto: Five moves to help the Oakland Raiders

Get back to basics with the defense

Good teams tackle well — Oakland hasn’t  for a very long time. The Raiders have been a sieve on defense since 2003:

2011 – 27^th in the NFL – 136.1 yds/g

2010 – 29^th in the NFL – 133.6 yds/g

2009 – 29^th in the NFL – 155.5 yds/g

2008 – 31^st in the NFL – 159.7 yds/g

2007 – 31^st in the NFL – 145.9 yds/g

2006 – 25^th in the NFL – 134.0 yds/g

2005 – 25^th in the NFL – 128.1 yds/g

2004 – 22^nd in the NFL – 125.8 yds/g

2003 – 32^nd in the NFL – 156.9 yds/g

Allen will have to simplify what he does on defense before we see all the bells and whistles. Denver players have cited his ability to simplify game plans and make every player on the defense accountable for their assignments. Building confidence in those groupings will then allow the Silver & Black to become a more fierce club and ultimately, a more aggressive one.

Boot Camp 101

Very rarely have we seen a militant camp or strenuous summers as Oakland prepared for campaigns. Now with a new head coach, a general manager that is changing the culture, Allen will have a chance to implement a tougher camp and begin instilling the discipline he preached about in his conference on Monday. The only way that you create habits is through consistency, doing the same things over and over and over,” Allen said. “Well, if you’re committing penalties, that becomes a habit. We’ve got to change those habits, all right? We’ve got to develop the proper habits so that we’re not creating those penalties on a daily basis.”

That begins in OTAs, mini-camps and training camp. Allen has that scary stare and a business like disposition. NFL insiders have said that the he wants his players to do it the right way… all the time, especially the first-time.

Oakland needed this a long time ago.

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With Dennis Allen on board, these Raiders are on notice

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Oakland Raiders middle linebacker Rolando McClain was ordered to stand trial on May 17^th. He allegedly punched a man, threatened to kill him, and firing a gun near his ear.

McClain is charged with third-degree assault, menacing, reckless endangerment and discharging a firearm.

The team did not impose any sanctions at the time of the alleged incident. McClain was in Alabama with the organizations permission so that he could attend the funeral of his grandfather.

His attorney, Billy C. Burney II, said the former first round pick denies firing the gun and being involved in any fight.

“At the end of the day,” Hue Jackson stated in early December, “there’s no question that he knows I’m disappointed with some things that occurred. And I will take care of that in-house.”

“If the league comes down on him,” Jackson continued, “then I’m going to come down on him like you’ve never seen.”

Pro Bowl punter Shane Lechler, who’s enjoying the perks of being selected to the AFC All-Star team in Hawaii, talked about his new coach. “I think it will be a good fit for us,” said Lechler. “He’s a young, energetic guy. Smart guy. Been through a lot with Atlanta, then a lot with New Orleans, over to Denver and that defense. We’ll take all the help we can get right now.”

In 1995, Dennis Allen and Lechler were teammates at Texas A&M.

“I’ve known him forever. I think this will be a good fit,” commented Lechler.

On Sirius satellite radio, John Madden stated, “I don’t know Dennis Allen. Obviously, I wasn’t a part of that [hiring], but everything I hear about him is good and what the Raiders need. I think he’s a very bright guy, he’s a good teacher, he’s a disciplinarian and he’s demanding.”

Terms of his deal are being finalized and a press conference in Oakland could be held the week after the Super Bowl.

The one name that constantly pops up when chatter about the composition of his staff is bantered about is Kansas City defensive backs coach Emmitt Thomas. Allen and Thomas are good friends; having a working relationship during their days in Atlanta.

Al Saunders may be retained for continuity sake and the fact that he’s well versed with many of the talents currently on the roster.

Saunders is one of the more respected coaches in the league and a candidate to remain as offensive coordinator. Mike Sherman, a former staffer in Green Bay, who also has connections to Reggie McKenzie could be added to the offensive staff.

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The Oakland Raiders hired Dennis Allen on Tuesday evening. His prowess as a defensive minded coach was one of the major reasons why Reggie McKenzie selected him. Especially after a 2011 season in which Oakland’s defensive unit faltered in many vital spots and was a major reason as to why they did not reach the playoffs. Here’s a look at a few players to watch now that the Silver & Black have themselves a new head man:

Rolando McClain LB

There’s no denying McClain’s football smarts. But his ability to make impact plays, become a stout middle linebacker and consistently anchor the center of the front-seven has been a major concern, with little signs of elevating his game since entering the league in 2010. His off the field issues are also very troublesome.

Ultimately, with Allen on board, McClain needs to let loose and start stamping his name on the defense. A handful of plays a year in which people take notice is not enough. When you spend such a high selection on a linebacker of his talents, you expect far more production and steadier play, especially at this point of their career.

Michael Huff S

Does he go back to safety? Remember, at year’s end, reports were that Oakland had plans to shift him to cornerback. Yes, the Raiders desperately need to upgrade their talent at defensive back, but Allen may be also dealing with a very thin safety unit of Tyvon Branch departs. Huff is a natural free-safety and as I stated, “Usually cornerbacks get moved to safety, especially veterans – not the other way around.”

Not that he’s an old 28, but Huff should be left at the position he’s worked at his whole career and Allen should be able to mold him into a safety we all expected he could be when Oakland drafted him. Just look at the level of play Allen got out of the secondary when he was coaching the Saints in 2008-2010 for reference.

Chimdi Chekwa, Chris Johnson and DeMarcus Van Dyke CBs

All cornerbacks that were ideal talents for the old regime. McKenzie and Allen are now in charge, and there’s no safety net for either of those players. Yes, McKenzie stated that he loves speedy athletic talents. But Johnson got paid heavily based on a small sample set a few years ago under Al Davis’ watch and both rookies last season were scouted and selected based on what Davis and the past coaching staff found intriguing.

Matt Shaughnessy and Lamarr Houston DEs

Lamarr Houston needs to rev it up with Dennis Allen as a head-coach.

Both of these defensive ends have motors and either or both could develop into menacing players in the league with the right tutelage. Shaughnessy will coming off a season ending shoulder injury, but before that, was recognized as one of the better edge defending and pass rushing ends in the AFC. Houston’s play dipped significantly from year one to year two. Both are young, paid very little and could be major keys to turning around a struggling defense.

Aaron Curry LB

Curry was rejuvenated, played violently and looked every part the Raider once he arrived. If there’s one player you can point at and say, he’ll benefit the most from Allen’s arrival, it could be the former fourth pick overall in the 2009 draft.

Kamerion Wimbley LB

Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil were a major reason Denver’s defense soared at times in 2011. Wimbley, who was a sack machine in his first season with the Raiders, but saw his numbers drop off dramatically last season, needs to get back to his double-digit sack days. His contract dictates that, and his role will be of importance due to his veteran presence and potential output.

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

MVP (On Offense)

Michael Bush, RB

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

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

MVP (On Defense)

Tommy Kelly, DT

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

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

MVP (Special Teams)

Sebastian Janikowski, PK

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

BEST COACH

Bob Wylie

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

MOST IMPROVED (On Offense)

Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR

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

MOST IMPROVED (On Defense)

This award will not be given to anyone.

BEST ROOKIE

Denarius Moore, WR

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

PLAYERS WHO DISAPPOINTED…

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

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

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

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

CLASSIEST RAIDERS

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

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

PLAYER MISSED THE MOST… (due to injury)

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

PLAYER MISSED THE MOST… (due to departure)

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

PLAYER WHO NEEDS TO BE INCORPORATED MORE…

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

MOST OVERRATED (on offense)

Jacoby Ford, WR

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

MOST OVERRATED (on defense)

Matt Giordano, FS

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

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

BEST MOMENTS

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

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

WORST MOMENTS

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

BEST PLAYS

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

BEST INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCES

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

BEST PASS BY A NON-QB

Shane Lechler’s TD to Kevin Boss.

WORST PASSES BY A QB

How many did Kyle Boller attempt vs. the Chiefs?

MID-SEASON ACQUISITION THAT WILL STICK AROUND…

Aaron Curry

MID-SEASON ACQUISITIONS THAT WILL NOT STICK AROUND…

Lito Sheppard

BEST QUOTE

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

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

Kyle Boller, QB

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

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

Kevin Boss, TE

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

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

Tyvon Branch, SS

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

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

The Oakland Front Office

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

Michael Bush, RB

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

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

Jason Campbell, QB

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

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

Aaron Curry, LB

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

Jacoby Ford, WR

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

Matt Giordano, S

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

Tommy Kelly, DT

Resolution: To make the Pro Bowl in 2012.

Rolando McClain, LB

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

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

Darren McFadden, RB

Resolution: Play 16-games!

Carson Palmer, QB

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

Stanford Routt, CB

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

Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR

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

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

Chaz Schilens, WR

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

Jared Veldheer, LT and Stefen Wisniewski, LG

Resolution: To get to Hawaii as a tandem.

Kamerion Wimbley, LB

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

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

Oakland Raiders: New Year’s resolutions for 2011

Not bad, huh?

Happy New Year to everyone in the Raider Nation!

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In just a few hours, it will be 2012…

SBReport.net turns the page on another year by looking at the best and the worst in Raider-Land in 2011. The Oakland Raiders did not reach the playoffs in 2011, but hope remains for 2012, as they’ll play the San Diego Chargers on Sunday on the first day of a new year.

Here’s a look at the best and the worst:

JANUARY

Worst: The Decatur police department responded to shots fired at Rolando McClain’s vehicle.

Best: Oakland hired Steve Wisniewski to aide Bob Wylie along  the offensive line.

Best: Al Davis had an informal session with local media after the announcement of Hue Jackson as a head-coach, which can be heard here.

Best: More audio from Davis regarding his new coach, and his old coach.

Best: Oakland hires Hue Jackson.

Worst: Just litigate, baby.

Worst: Shane Lechler rips into the owner.

FEBRUARY

Best: Raiders re-sign Kamerion Wimbley.

Best: Stanford Routt signs an extension.

Best: Rod Woodson is hired to coach the secondary.

Worst: Michael Bush was arrested for drunk driving.

Worst: Oakland brings back Chuck Bresnahan.

MARCH

Worst: Donovan McNabb to Oakland trade rumors.

Worst: The NFL lockout.

APRIL

Best: Raiders draft Stefen Wisniewski. More here.

Worst: Louis Murphy arrested for…

AUGUST

Worst: Shooting after 49ers-Raiders game.

SEPTEMBER

Best: Sebastian Janikowski blasts a 63-yard FG in Oakland’s win at Denver.

Worst: Oakland cannot get a second half stop in Buffalo…lose on the road.

Best: The Raiders bully the Jets… and Ryan’s defense.

OCTOBER

Worst: The passing of Al Davis.

Best: Oakland wins on the road at Houston on the weekend of Davis’ death.

Worst: Get humiliated at home versus the Chiefs and lose Darren McFadden due to injury.

Worst: Matt Shaughnessy heads to the I.R.

Best: Carson Palmer is acquired.

NOVEMBER

Best: The Raiders win three in a row versus the Chargers, Vikings and Bears to take the AFC West lead.

Worst: Injuries begin to mount.

DECEMBER

Worst: Rolando McClain arrested.

Best: Raiders beat Kansas City 16-13 in OT to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Worst: Lose three in a row and fall behind the Denver Broncos in the AFC West race.

MORE…

Best coach — Bob Wylie, offensive line: He has one of the better young left sides in the entire NFL. They haven’t been as dominant late as they were at the start of the season, but this unit overall has been very surprising.

Best player — Darren McFadden, RB: Oakland’s most electrifying talent. The offenses’ complexity changes when he’s in there.

Best acquisition — Carson Palmer, QB: It saved the season… imagine of Kyle Boller had to go the rest of the way after Jason Campbell went down?

Best acquisiton pt. 2 — Aaron Curry, LB: Just plays like a Raider.

Best Rookie — Denarius Moore, WR: He has the knack for the big plays (i.e. vs. San Diego, at Buffalo et.)

Best Win — At Houston: Emotional weekend, facing a offensive power-house… Oakland got the job done.

Worst loss – 28-27 vs. Detroit: What a collapse!

Worst play – Calvin Johnson was covered by who on that final drive?

Here is a look at the best and worst of the Raiders at the bye week this season:

Best & Worst: Oakland Raiders at the Bye Week

SBReport.net will wrap-up the season with more ‘best and worst’ moments when Oakland’s campaign comes to an end… so stay tuned. From everyone at SBReport and Raiderfans.net — Happy New Year!

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Following their overtime victory last week, the Oakland Raiders find themselves in another must-win game as they take on the San Diego Chargers this week at O.Co Coliseum on New Year’s Day.

The Raiders kept their playoff hopes alive with their win over the Chiefs last week, but they still need to defeat the Chargers and receive help from other teams in order to make the playoffs.

In order to become the AFC West champions, the Raiders must defeat the Chargers and have the Chiefs defeat Tim Tebow and the Broncos, who are playing in Denver.

The Raiders can also obtain their first postseason berth since 2002 with a win, and a loss by the Cincinnati Bengals and the Tennessee Titans. The Bengals take on the Baltimore Ravens and the Titans take on the Houston Texans. The Raiders can also win the final wildcard spot with a Bengals loss and a New York Jets victory against the Miami Dolphins.

Although the Raiders need help from elsewhere no matter what, Hue Jackson needs to make sure that his squad takes care of their own business first as either scenario requires a Raiders victory.

The Raiders hope to have similar success against the Chargers that they achieved in week 10 when the Raiders defeated the Chargers 24-17.

Luckily this week, it appears that the Chargers will be going without star wide receiver Vincent Jackson who has not practiced with a groin injury. Jackson is the Chargers leading receiver with 58 receptions for 1077 yards and eight touchdowns.

Even without Jackson, quarterback Phillip Rivers and the Chargers have a solid passing game that will look to exploit a Raiders defense that has struggled against the pass. Oakland is currently 25th in the league in defending the pass, allowing an average of 247.5 yards per game.

Although Rivers is having arguably his worst season in the NFL, he is still averaging 274.4 yards per game but also 19 interceptions. The Raiders will look to intercept Rivers and take advantage by scoring points off of any turnovers.

The Raiders benefit from the return of safety Michael Huff, who has missed the last two weeks due to injury. Huff will have a tough task of not only helping with stopping the run, but also will find himself matched up with the athletic tight end Antonio Gates. Gates has been a solid receiver when healthy this season, hauling in 59 receptions for 672 yards and six touchdowns. With Jackson out, it is likely that Rivers will look for Gates more, especially in the end zone.

The Chargers also have a formidable rushing attack to go along with Rivers and the passing game. Leading the rushing attack is second-year running back Ryan Mathews who has 1091 yards and six touchdown runs. The Chargers also like to use bruising back Mike Tolbert in goal line situations, allowing Tolbert to tally 7 touchdown runs thus far. In their week 10 match up, the Raiders were able to hold the Chargers to just 75 yards on the ground.

On offense, the Raiders will need quarterback Carson Palmer and running back Michael Bush to have the same big games that they had against the Chargers in week 10.

Palmer was able to pick apart the Chargers defense, finishing 14/20 for 299 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. Rookie wide receiver Denarius Moore was able to beat the Chargers secondary on multiple plays, allowing Palmer to find him five times for 123 yards and two touchdowns.

Palmer will also have another speedy option returning as wide receiver Jacoby Ford has returned to practice this week and is expected to take the field on Sunday. Ford was expected to have a breakout year this year but has been hobbled by injuries much of the season, including the most recent foot injury he suffered in the week 10 match up with the Chargers. With the return of Ford, the Raiders get their starting kickoff return man back. Ford has returned four kickoffs back for touchdowns in his short two-year NFL career.

With star running back Darren McFadden still out to a foot injury, running back Michael Bush will look to have a similar day to his career day in his last match up against the Chargers. Bush finished the game with 30 carries for 157 rushing yards, along with hauling in three receptions for 85 yards. Bush’s 242 yards from the line of scrimmage is the most for the franchise since the Art Powell recorded 247 yards in 1963.

The Raiders also see the return of the speedy rookie Taiwan Jones, who has also been out to injury. Jones will look to provide a nice spark as a speedy alternative to the bigger Bush.

There is no doubt that the Chargers will be looking to spoil the Raiders chances at the playoffs, but the Raiders will need to persevere if they want any chance of playoffs. The team needs to take care of their own business, and let the other scores play out.

With the Chargers already out of the playoff hunt, it is likely that the sold-out O.Co Coliseum will be all Raider fans in what will seem like a playoff atmosphere. With the sellout of the final game, the Raiders successfully sold out all eight of their home games this season.

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

Kevin Boss, TE

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

Tyvon Branch, SS

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

Michael Bush, RB

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

Bruce Campbell, OL

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

Jason Campbell, QB

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

Aaron Curry, LB

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

Jacoby Ford, WR/KR

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

Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR

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

T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR

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

Sebastian Janikowski, PK

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

Shane Lechler, P

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

Rolando McClain, LB

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

Darren McFadden, RB

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

Carson Palmer, QB

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

Richard Seymour, DT

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

Jared Veldheer, LT

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

Trevor Scott, DE

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

Hue Jackson, Coach

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

John Fassel, Special Teams Coach

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

Sanjay Lal, Wide Receiver coach

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

Tommy Kelly, DT

Podium: No other Raider provides better quotes.

The Raider Nation

A playoff berth: Boy, do you guys really deserve it.
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