Silver and Black Report

Here are some major storylines heading into training camp for the Oakland Raiders. Depending on the outcome of these stories, the Silver & Black could continue their miserable losing stretch or finally show signs of being a respectable football club.

• Can Jason Campbell stabilize the offense and be a starting caliber QB for Oakland?

In 2009, Campbell topped all his career marks with 327 completions, 507 attempts, 3.618 passing yards, 20 touchdowns a completion percentage of 64.5% and a rating of 86.4. That was with a Washington team that had a new offensive hierarchy practically every season and a leaky offensive line. The Raiders will gladly take numbers like that. But this is Oakland – a wasteland for talent many times – and if Campbell can’t continue his growth and prove to be a starting caliber passer, the Silver & Black will be shuffling to find a passer on their roster full of back-up signal callers.

• What will the offensive line alignment look like, and can it be cohesive?

Mario Henderson at left tackle and Robert Gallery at left guard are the only two players set in stone along the trenches.  Yes Samson Satele is the projected center, but nothing along this offensive line screams out solid or cohesive. They have some youthful alternatives in Bruce Campbell and Jared Veldheer, but giving rookies a lot of reps is always a risky proposition. Campbell’s success and the rush attack will be reliant in this group. If there is a mess on this unit, the offense will struggle mightily.

• Will the run defense be a joke, again?

The deficiencies here have been well documented since 2003. But now Richard Seymour has a year under his belt, John Henderson has been added and rookie Lamarr Houston looks promising. The woes of the defense have stemmed from their inability to stuff the run. More talent appears in place for John Marshall, but will it finally get fixed?

• Is the mix at linebacker the right one?

This revamped grouping will be interesting to observe. Kamerion Wimbley, Quentin Groves and rookie Rolando McClain are all new faces in 2010. And it’s conceivable that all three start together. Thomas Howard is under the radar for the first time in Silver & Black and veterans like Sam Williams and Ricky Brown at this point appear to be special team contributors. If the defensive line protects this group, they have enough ability to support versus the run. But how they fare against opposing passing attacks and play in space will be the major question mark.

• Will a running back finally step up?

There is no denying that the Raiders have ability in the offensive backfield. Darren McFadden and Michael Bush could combine to give Oakland a solid ground game. But can either one break out? Who will give Hue Jackson the consistent battering ram they need to move the chains and control the clock? Their third rusher could be just as important, since McFadden will likely be used all over the formation to present match-up problems. Rock Cartwright or Michael Bennett are two veterans that could get more carries than expected because of Jackson’s intentions.

• Are the wide receivers young and exciting, or too raw and not ready for the spotlight?

Darrius Heyward-Bey could not have had a worse rookie campaign. But he did work hard during the off-season and is putting the effort in to prove naysayers wrong. That alone won’t change the opinions of those still wonder whether or not he can be a well-rounded target. Louis Murphy has starting caliber potential and Chaz Schilens wets the coaching staff’s appetitive, but his fragility is a major concern along with the looming question of whether or not he can be expected to play with expectations on him for a 16-game stretch. They are no veterans on this unit with past success and that could hurt Jason Campbell. The rest are late draft picks, projects and talents that may not make it on any other roster in the league.

• Is Tom Cable really the right coach for this team?

Cable has talked up the team and the new aura surrounding them. But it is his job to get them to believe they can win and ultimately, prove it on the field. That’s a difficult task considering their current losing streak and the sense of failure this Raider bunch has had since 2003. Another losing season and Cable will be gone. If Oakland wins and turns the page, Cable will be in a nice position to negotiate a multi-year deal to remain as coach.

• How much influence can Hue Jackson have in year one?

The offense has been anemic. The play calling, uninspiring. Enter Hue Jackson, who want to pound the football on the ground and make this offense more diverse. With Campbell at quarterback, Oakland can expand on their playbook and not be such an easy group to dissect for defenses. If Jackson can squeeze out a respectable offense out of this roster, he’ll be looked at as a savior in Raider land.

• Which young player(s) on defense shine in 2010?

McClain and Houston are two highly touted rookies. But Tyvon Branch, Trevor Scott, Matt Shaugnessy and Mike Mitchell are players that will receive significant playing time and can prove to be surprise performers. Oakland has a lot of youth on defense. If they get a few to play up to their potential, John Marshall’s group could be in the top half of total defense in the league.

• Who on special teams can shine other than the place kicker and punter?

Johnnie Lee Higgins was the break out player for the Raiders two tears ago. After a pedestrian performance from all their return specialists in 2009, a return to form for Higgins could help this special teams get back to respectability. Yamon Figurs, Jacoby Ford and Nick Miller will try to unseat Higgins. Sam Williams, Ricky Brown, Jon Condo, Travis Goethel, Mike Mitchell among others will have to cover kickoffs and punts a lot better. Which linebackers that are not in the starting line-up will wind up on special teams?

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Here are more views exclusive to SBReport.net of the Oakland Raiders Organized Team Activities (OTA). The Silver & Black are just weeks away from beginning their training camp and kicking off their pre-season campaign. Stay logged on to SBReport throughout the summer for a peek into all the happenings in Raider-Land.

Safety Tyvon Branch (#33) will be looking to break out in 2010. An underrated player in the AFC, his tackling ability around the line of scrimmage and coverage skills has improved since entering the league. Oakland boasts a young and talented defensive backfield that will only get better with Branch’s maturity and will get more recognition as the defender makes a name for himself this season.

Rookie Jacoby Ford (#12) is fast – very fast. In college, he was dubbed the “fastest player on the East Coast,” an attribute that Oakland will put to the test on special teams and as a wide receiver this summer.

Jerome Boyd (#30), a one-time linebacker, will try to sneak onto the roster as a safety. While in college, he was a two-time Honorable mention All-Pac 10 (2007-2008). Boyd was clocked running a 4.33 in the 40-yard dash in Oregon. Hiram Eugene is most likely his obstacle for a roster spot.

Elliot Vallejo (#62) is a 6’7, 315 pound tackle, who was initially signed to the Raiders practice squad on December of 2009. Released a few days later that season, Oakland brought him back on June 8, 2010. The offensive line is a major question mark for the Silver & Black, but it is unlikely that Vallejo impacts that depth chart, unless he has an impressive summer and Tom Cable’s bunch suffers crippling injuries.

Yes, the above image is of Darrius Heyward-Bey attempting to snag a pass during drills. All reports have been good so far. But his rookie season was so bad; you may have to temper the enthusiasm until the 2^nd year pro actually sees live action in a regular season game. Heyward-Bey was so bad in 2010; any signs of improvement will be received with high praise.

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Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

In this second installment of SBReport’s exclusive interview with Oakland Raiders strong safety Tyvon Branch, the 23-year old talks about his head coach coming back for one more campaign, the off-season and the Silver & Black’s fan-base.

SBREPORT: How does it feel knowing that Tom Cable will be back another season?

TYVON BRANCH: It is great. He is an awesome motivator. If you cannot get motivated playing for him you are in the wrong sport.

As the 2009 season wound down, Branch demonstrated that he could become one of the better young safeties in the conference with continued development. I asked him how important it was to get that recognition, especially at such an early stage in his career.

“I want to win. The recognition will come. Obviously getting voted to the Pro Bowl is a goal every NFL player has, and I feel those recognitions will come as we continue to improve.”

SB: How do you approach the off-season; in terms of balancing your time off and recovering from the season, and working-out and trying to get better as a player?

BRANCH: Well January and the first week or so of February was a mixture of relaxation and cardio type work. Basically trying to rejuvenate my muscles and get them ready to go. Come mid February and March I am back at it 100 percent. That includes team activities, film study, and workouts.

SB: When Tyvon Branch is not playing football or training, what’s your day like during the off-season?

BRANCH: I like to play paintball when I get the time and I love video games. I also try and keep my fans updated on Facebook…

SB: If you were not playing football, what career path would you have chosen?

BRANCH: I would be a chef – I make a mean hot pocket! HA. But in reality, I would love to coach. I love the game of football and love being around kids.

In five victories in 2009, the Raiders tallied 15 of the team’s 37 total sacks. Oakland was far more aggressive in those contests and the team appeared to have an emphasis on generating a rush. I asked Branch if he felt that the defense is at its best when they are attacking; blitzing and bringing the heat as oppose to sitting back and being passive with just a 4-man rush?

He said, “Certain times call for different schemes, but personally, I love to attack and go after the offense.”

SB: Do you think Richard Seymour will stick around to help this team turn around its fortunes in the coming years?

BRANCH: He is an amazing player. I have never seen someone manhandle offensive lineman like he can. Playing behind him has been an awesome experience. I would love to do it for years to come.

SB: How hard is it for the defense to sit on the sideline and see the offense struggle at times?

BRANCH: We all want to win, so watching any part of the game plan not go as planned can be tough. This is a team game and we all have to do better.

SB: Who is the toughest guy you have faced?

BRANCH: [New Orleans Saints’ QB] Drew Brees is a tough player to read.

SB: What road stadium has been the most fun to play in?

BRANCH: I like a lot of the stadiums. I really like our in conference away games because the crowd always seems to be a bit more intense.

SB: What’s it like playing in front of ‘the Black Hole?’

BRANCH: The black hole is great. They are the loudest and best fans in football as far as I am concerned. Very loyal and proud. I love being a Raider!

BRANCH NOTES

• He was rewarded the Ed Block Courage Award in 2009, commemorating his dedication and determination. “It’s a great honor. I feel privileged. I work hard every day and I’m glad to see that it pays off,” Branch said on Raiders.com. Per the Ed Block Courage Award’s official web site, “Each year, the Ed Block Courage Awards honor those National Football League players who exemplify commitments to the principles of sportsmanship and courage. Recipients are selected by their teammates for team effort, as well as individual performance.”
• In two seasons, Branch has tallied 134 combined tackles, 1 sack, 9 passes defended, 1 interception and two forced fumbles.
• Was All-Big East second team in 2007.

You can follow him at: twitter.com/tyvonbranch or become a part of his crew at:www.facebook.com/tyvonbranch.

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

With the 100^th selection in the 2008 NFL Draft, the Oakland Raiders selected Tyvon Branch. The Connecticut Huskie has since become the starting strong safety, an up-and-coming defender in the AFC and one of the more reliable talents on the Silver & Black’s youthful secondary.

SBReport.net was able to chat with Branch, get a look into his career, especially the start of it; when he was a draft prospect that made headlines with his impressive 40-time and athleticism.

SBREPORT: Thinking back when you were a prospect entering the draft, what were your thoughts about what round you would be selected in, and what teams showed the most interest in you?

TYVON BRANCH: Wow, making me go way back it seems. There were a lot of teams that I was able to speak with. My agent – Buddy Baker and all of the Excusive Sports Group team – put me in front of most of the teams. The interest really started rising after the combine when I ran what I did. My dream was never to play for a certain team, but to play in the NFL. Now that I am here, I am trying to make the most of it.

The speedy safety sprinted upward on draft boards after he posted a 4.31-second time in the 40-yard dash, best of all the defensive backs at the combine in 2008.

And as a rookie, the Raiders looked at him as a diverse asset to the football club.

SB: Oakland had plans for you to play on special teams in your first season, maybe handle some returns: why has that not panned out?

BRANCH: I did do a lot of that my rookie year, but as my playing time has increased on defense we decided to scale back some of the special teams duties. Plus, we have some great guys out there now.

SB: Back when you were a rookie, your former defensive coordinator Rob Ryan stated, “We think he’s going to be a safety for us. He’s going to be a good, solid player. [Branch] is a hard-hitting young man. He’s really fun to watch.” What does that do for a young player when you project well onto coaches and they praise you like that?

BRANCH: It is great that others can see the hard work that you put in getting to this level. The key is to live up to those expectations and continue to impress.

Branch impressed, especially after playing through a hand injury early in his rookie year. Unfortunately, that season was cut short when the physical safety injured his shoulder and was placed on the reserve list.

SB: In 2008, you recorded your first career interception during a 23-8 victory at Kansas City. The 36-yard return set up a Raider score. What are your recollections of that day and the play?

BRANCH: That is a great memory. My first NFL interception is something I will always think back on. I feel like we were in the right defense and things just happen to fall into place. Let’s hope we can increase the turnover numbers this year.

The Raiders have a lot of youth in the defensive backfield. And Branch is just one of the many talents that will be looked upon to make this defense one of the better ones in the AFC West. Last season, he tallied 124 tackles (10^th most in the NFL), 1 sack and 2 forced fumbles. When asked about the raw skill in the secondary and his outlook for the unit in 2010, Branch stated, “We will be a much more cohesive unit. As you said, we are still young but we are starting to really play as a team and learning to play off of each other.”

SB: How would you describe your style of play?

BRANCH: Tough. I love to go in there and knock heads off!

• Come back to SBReport.net to read part two of the exclusive interview with Tyvon Branch. In the next installment, the safety talks about playing for Tom Cable, his front row view of Richard Seymour in action, the off-season and more.

You can follow him at: twitter.com/tyvonbranch or become a part of his crew at: www.facebook.com/tyvonbranch.

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Best Offensive Player:

Zach Miller, Tight End – 66 rec. 805 yards 3 TD

It amazes me how on a horrendous offense, Miller continues to improve on his numbers on a yearly basis. Raiders don’t have many scary targets on offense. And Miller is not as dynamic as other tight ends around the league, but he sure is productive and a solid blocker.

Best Defensive Player:

Nnamdi Asomugha, Cornerback

Among the best defenders in the NFL. Asomugha is a complete defensive back and a better citizen.

Best Special Team Player:

Shane Lechler, Punter

The Pro Bowl talent ended with a 51.1 average, short of Sammy Baugh’s 51.4 record set in 1940. But he did break the net average mark with 43.9, topping the 41.2 he set last season.

Best Coach:

Lionel Washington, Defensive Backs

Tyvon Branch matured into a solid starter, Michael Huff had his best season as a pro, rookie Mike Mitchell gave the backfield a jolt and Asomugha is among the best. Washington did a solid job with this group.

Least Valuable Offensive Player:

Darrius Heyward-Bey, Wide Receiver

Nine receptions for 124-yards and one score. Two carries for 19-yards. This from the seventh overall pick in the NFL draft with $23.5 million in guarantees coming to him.

Least Valuable Defensive Player:

Chris Johnson, Cornerback

It’s hard to constantly be the target of opponents, especially with Asomugha on the other side. But Johnson gave up too many big plays and was a weak spot in a secondary that was solid to very good at times.

Most Improved Player:

Tyvon Branch, Strong Safety

He was a tackling machine around the line of scrimmage and developed into one of the upcoming SS in the conference.

Least Improved Player:

JaMarcus Russell, Quarterback

The stats were horrendous, his development was non-existent and when you get benched in favor of Bruce Gradkowski and Charlie Frye, you know things are bad. He went from being the first overall pick and possible savior to public enemy number one.

Best Rookie (Offense):

Louis Murphy, Wide Receiver – 34 rec. 521 yards 4 TD

He was fiery, injected life to a dead unit at times and was a gamer. Sure he had his drops, mental lapses and was sometimes the victim of bad calls from officials, but the 4^th round pick has legitimate potential to be a starting caliber receiver at this level.

Best Rookie (Defense):

Matt Shaughnessy, Defensive Lineman

He compiled four-sacks and played well in the interior when tabbed in the second half of the season with more reps.

Player Missed the Most due to Injury:

Robert Gallery, Left Guard

He missed six regular season games with a broken leg before returning to the line-up, but then he injured his lower back in December and Oakland shut him down for the season. By far the best offensive lineman they have.

Most entertaining player when entering the field:

Sebastian Janikowski, Kicker

He enjoyed his best season as a pro. He was 26-of-29, with his only misses coming from long distance.

Deserving of more carries award:

Michael Bush, Running Back

He ended the campaign with a team leading 589 yards rushing. Bush averaged 4.8 a carry and had the best two rushing performances by a raider this season (119 vs. KC and 133 vs. DEN).

Hardest Worker Award:

Justin Fargas, Running Back

Probably the least talented of the trio of rushers but no one runs harder or with more intensity.

The ‘I want out…’ Award:

Javon Walker, Wide Receiver

He signed a six-year $55 million deal with $16 million in guarantees in March of 2008. Since, he has been one of the biggest free-agent busts in league history. Walker has been inactive all season and left in the organizations doghouse.

Best Victories:

1. Week 13 – Raiders 27 – Steelers 24: A 21-point barrage in the 4^th quarter led by Bruce Gradkowski’s 308-yards passing and 3 touchdowns. The 35-point final quarter was exciting and full of big plays, including two Murphy touchdowns: one for 75-yards and the closing score from 11-yards out.
2. Week 15 – Raiders 20 – Broncos 19: Charlie Frye started, J.P Losman got a snap but JaMarcus Russell was the one who put a road block on Denver’s effort to make the playoffs with his game winning touchdown pass at Invesco Field. Michael Bush had 133 yards and a touchdown on 18-carries.
3. Week 11 – Raiders 20 – Bengals 17: The Bruce ‘Almighty’ Gradkowski stint started with a win. Oakland scored 13 second half points in a frantic finish. “As a team, we’re not really known for fighting back, and we came back,” rookie Louis Murphy said.

Worst Losses:

1. Week 7 – Jets 38 – Raiders 0: New York came in reeling; losing three in a row, missing Kris Jenkins after his injury a week earlier, a struggling rookie passer, a coach beleaguered by the media that had to travel to the west coast. Oakland allowed 316 rushing yards, led by rookie Shonn Greene, this after beating the Eagles a week earlier in the midst of back-to-back home games.
2. Week 3 – Broncos 23 – Raiders 3: Denver went 3-0 with a road victory in the Black Hole. Oakland was held to 137 yards of offense, and at the time, it was only the third time since 1993 that they had offensive outputs of less than 200-yards in ensuing weeks. Russell had only one passing yard in the second half and thus began the weekly booing’s in Oakland.
3. Week 14 – Redskins 34 – Raiders 13: Russell came in for an injured Gradkowski and sucked the life out of the offense. An offense that tallied nearly 200-yards of offense against the Redskins went to hibernation when Russell took over.

Best Moments of the Season:

1. Zach Miller’s 86-yard touchdown romp versus the Philadelphia Eagles that was aided by two stellar blocks by rookie Louis Murphy.
2. Bruce Gradkowski’s 29-yard game tying touchdown pass to Murphy with 33 seconds left versus the Cincinnati Bengals. On the ensuing kickoff, Brandon Myers forced a fumble which set-up Janikowski for a game winning 33-yard field goal. “He caused the fumble,” linebacker Sam Williams said. “That was unbelievable.”
3. Louis Murphy’s 11-yard touchdown catch with nine seconds left at Pittsburgh.
4. JaMarcus Russell’s 10-yard touchdown pass to Chaz Schilens with 35 seconds remaining to beat the Broncos at Denver, “They’re all special, but this one’s pretty high,” said Russell.
5. Janikowski nailing a 61-yard field goal in cold Cleveland.

Worst Moments of the Season:

1. Darrius Heyward-Bey’s bobbled pass deep in Kansas City territory that fell into the hands of a Chiefs defender. That turnover sealed the victory for the visiting rivals as Oakland drove late in the contest.
2. Russell being pulled after going 6-for-11 for 61 yards with 2 interceptions and a lost fumble against the Jets.
3. Johnnie Lee Higgins and Louis Murphy bumping into each other as they came off the line of scrimmage, and taking themselves out of the play against the Chargers.
4. Russell entering the game against the Redskins after Gradkowski was injured and then getting sacked six of the eight times Washington tallied sacks. “We had heard that Russell’s just had a tough time, and you could tell when he stepped on the field and the crowd started booing,” Washington defensive end Andre Carter said.
5. All of the Tom Cable off the field distractions.
6. Hiram Eugene getting pushed aside by Willis McGahee during his 77-yard scamper in the season finale.

Unit that was lackluster:

Punt and Kickoff returns

Whether it was Gary Russell, Jonathan Holland, Justin Miller briefly or Louis Rankin, the return units were non-threats to opponents. Even Johnnie Lee Higgins, who made a name for himself as an explosive punt returner in 2008 was quiet in 2009.

Hey look, I’m a starter award:

Michael Huff, Safety

Turned himself into a reliable player in the secondary after years of the Raiders waiting on this first round talent to turn the corner.

Hey look, I should not be a starter:

Cornell Green, Right Tackle

The penalty machine was at it again this season. Green may be the best option for the Raiders at right tackle, which demonstrates the need for them to upgrade that side of the offensive line.

Best Off-season Move:

Greg Ellis, Defensive End

Tied with Trevor Scott for the team lead with sacks (7).

‘We are waiting…,’ Award:

Darren McFadden, Running Back – 104 car. 357 yards 1 TD, 21 rec. 245 yards

Is it the lack of creativity on this offense? Do the Raiders need a better mind running the offense? Are the quarterback issues impacting him? Regardless of the excuses, McFadden has not been the explosive talent they had hoped for and certainly not the multi-dimensional weapon he can potentially be. Plus, he had 4 fumbles this season (3 lost) while missing four games due to injury.

Best Quote(s):

• “I don’t think we could have beaten an Oakland high school team today,” said Richard Seymour after the 38-0 loss to the Jets. Ironically, he stated earlier that week that Oakland would make the playoffs.
• “If you really want to look at it, you can go 8-0 and you might end up 10-6,” stated Chris Johnson. “There’s a possible way you can actually do it.”

Contact Author:  Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist

Three Oakland Raiders were fined by the NFL for their actions last Sunday against the Cleveland Browns.

Tight end Tony Stewart got hit the hardest; penalized $25,000 for “making intentional physical contact with a game official.” Stewart claimed that linebacker Alex Hall punched him on a kickoff return and he was pleading his case to the officials after the play.

“I’d give them one percent chance that they couldn’t have seen the play, seen that happen. I was saying to the refs, ‘You didn’t see that? You didn’t see him punch me in the face? You’re not going to throw a flag?’ And the ref came up to me and put his hand on my chest and started pushing me,” Stewart said. “I just swiped his hand off my chest. Just a natural reaction.”

Richard Seymour, who was recently selected as a Pro Bowl alternate, was fined $10,000. He got flagged for a personal foul and unsportsmanlike conduct against the Browns.

In total, Oakland was penalized 13 times for 126 yards last weekend. The game became volatile with scuffles and referees appeared to take control of the game by tossing flags around.

“That’s how I felt. I’ve never seen flags thrown like that,” Seymour said. “Obviously we have to understand how the game is being played and how the game is being called and play accordingly. We didn’t do a good job of that after we understood that they were going to throw it if you looked the wrong way.”

Stewart was ejected from that contest, along with cornerback Stanford Routt who was also docked $5,000 this week. He was booted off the field due to a head-butting an opponent.

“They said I head-butted him. That was it,” Routt said Thursday. “That happened four days ago. That might as well have happened four years ago, in my opinion. Know what I mean? What’s done is done.”

SECONDARY AILING

Cornerback Chris Johnson has been slowed this week in practice with a strained hamstring and starting strong safety Tyvon Branch in hindered by a ailing hip flexor.

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:

JaMarcus Russell:

Hopefully Santa will bring him accuracy, better footwork, pocket awareness and a little more motivation this Christmas. On second thought, the jolly old fat-man and his reindeers may not be able to lug that around on his sleigh. He may not be able to give Russell a ride either – poor reindeers.

Luke Lawton:

Clean blood and urine samples.

Shane Lechler:

Continued strength on that powerful right leg so he can destroy Sammy Baugh’s 51.4 punt average set in 1940. He is currently at 51.5 per punt.

Nnamdi Asomugha:

Another Pro-Bowl selection.

Tyvon Branch:

More recognition around the league as he continues to develop into one of the better safeties in the AFC.

Darren McFadden:

More touches in varying formations and glue for his hands.

Cornell Green:

A new address in 2010.

Darrius Heyward-Bey:

An injection of instant wide receiver skills.

Tommy Kelly:

A functioning belt.

Mike Mitchell:

More reps and clean targets for his fury.

Nick Miller:

A one-way ticket off the inactive list.

Javon Walker:

A time machine to speed up his departure out of Oakland.

Greg Ellis:

A healthy set of knees.

Johnnie Lee Higgins:

A new barber.

Louis Murphy:

His own set of referees that won’t overturn any of his receptions.

Tom Cable:

A punching bag, a new playbook and hope for two-more wins and a chance to keep his job.

Sebastian Janikowski:

Ten more clean attempts at a 70-yard field goal.

QUARTERBACK: A

Bruce Gradkowski had the best statistical game for any Raider passer in a long time. His poise was stellar along with his ability to extend plays and make clutch throws in key spots. Oakland would have never won this game with JaMarcus Russell at the helm. Early on, Gradkowski missed an open Louis Murphy on a 3^rd and 3 that would’ve led to a big gain. But he bounced back from that on the next drive hitting Johnnie Lee Higgins on a 22-yard pass on 3^rd and 14 – the key play on a possession that ended with a field goal to cut the Pittsburgh lead to 10-6. Gradkowski ended the first half 7-of-9 for 86 yards. He opened the 2^nd half with a nice sidearm delivery to Zach Miller for 10-yards on a 3^rd and 8, and in the 4^th quarter, he moved the chains on a 3^rd and 3 scrambling for 8-yards. Oakland’s passer could’ve had at least 30-more yards rushing if not for infractions that negated some nice runs. He made a strong throw to Chaz Schilens for 17-yards with a lineman bearing down on him for a score that made it 13-10 with 8:21 remaining. The 75-yard bomb to Murphy was vital giving the Raiders a 20-17 lead with 5:28 left in the game. Then his passes to Higgins for 17-yards, Todd Watkins for 12-yards on 3^rd and 10, and Murphy for 19-yards marched the Silver & Black down the field as time expired. His final throw, an 11-yard game-winning touchdown pass to Murphy to cap the frantic 4^th quarter became the best moment for Oakland in 2009. His final numbers: 20/33 for 308 yards and 3 touchdowns.

RUNNING BACKS & FULLBACKS: C+

Justin Fargas led the team with 15 carries for 63-yards. He kept the Steelers’ defense honest, but was not a major factor in Oakland moving the ball when they needed it most. Darren McFadden had a key run on 3^rd and 2 in the final quarter, darting for 6-yards on a pitch near the end of a drive in which the Raiders took the lead. He ended with 9 rushes for 25 yards. Michael Bush was a non-factor with one-carry for one yard and making a cameo as a passer on a toss in which he overthrew a wide-open Schilens. Luke Lawton was flagged for a false start to start a drive deep in their own territory.

WIDE RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS: A

The receivers had their best game of the season, without the presence of rookie Darrius Heyward-Bey – out with a foot injury. Murphy shined when it mattered most with 4-catches for 128 yards and two touchdowns. He had his best game as a pro and could’ve had another big gainer after beating William Gay on a slant and go route on the first play of the 2^nd quarter, but Gradkowski overthrew him. He torched Ike Taylor for the 75-yard touchdown and tiptoed his way into the end zone the last 5-yards. Higgins made his first sizeable contribution to this team in 2009. He had 4 receptions for 63-yards. Schilens also keyed the huge 4^th quarter with his scoring grab; ending the game with 45-yards on 3 catches. Zach Miller continued his solid play with 43 yards receiving.

OFFENSIVE LINE: B-

Samson Satele was injured, did not return to the line-up and was replaced by Chris Morris. Robert Gallery injured his back and was replaced by Langston Walker. Oakland as a team ran for 109-yards – a win considering that Pittsburgh is the toughest team in the league statistically to run against. They allowed only 2-sacks, keeping Gradkowski’s jersey clean for most of the day, but the passer’s legs were the main reason Oakland was able to extend plays. Mario Henderson was flagged for a hold on a Gradkowski 20-yard scramble.

DEFENSIVE LINE: B-

Yes, they allowed 132-yards on the ground. But the defensive line was stout during some stretches and if you take away Rashard Mendenhall’s 60-yard scamper, the run defense would’ve had one of their best games of the season. They missed Greg Ellis’ pass rushing abilities, but they were able to keep Ben Roethlisberger moving out of the pocket. Pittsburgh’s passer is always dangerous on the run and he showed at times what he could do when improvising. A key play for this unit was a 4^th and 1 with their backs to the end zone at the 5-yard line, stuffing Big Ben on a sneak and keeping vital Pittsburgh points off the scoreboard. Richard Seymour was flagged for an illegal hands to the face.

LINEBACKERS: B

Trevor Scott recorded the Raiders only sack of the game. Kirk Morrison finished with 7-tackles. Thomas Howard played decently in his first start as a strong-side linebacker. At times, this unit was late on their assignment on shallower routes when they were in zones, but overall, they played well enough to keep the integrity of the defense on run and pass plays near the line of scrimmage. Scott’s sack was imperative on 3^rd and 6 at the end of the 3^rd quarter, as it was a 9-yard loss for the Steelers and forced Jeff Reed into a 53-yard field goal attempt  that he missed, keeping another three-points off the board for Pittsburgh.

SECONDARY: C-

Santonio Holmes had a career game (8 rec. 149 yards 1 TD). And far too often, this group either had a blown tackle or a missed assignment. Chris Johnson almost had an interception on a 3^rd and 11 early in the contest. On Holmes score, Tyvon Branch and Johnson were beat on the corner route. The previous play, Branch was beaten by Hines Ward for 27-yards on a post pattern. Branch (11 tackles) was taken advantage of in coverage, but was at his best as the last line of defense on run pays and around the line of scrimmage. Johnson had a case for a illegal hands to the face/facemask penalty on Hines Ward during his 11-yard scoring reception that made it 24-20 Pittsburgh with 3:32 remaining. Michael Huff broke up several plays with big hits as the ball approached the intended receiver. Hiram Eugene’s first interception of the season was a stellar grab in the end zone as time expired in the first half. That was the only turnover in the game and it was another play that kept points off the board for the Steelers. Roethlisberger’s throw to Holmes for 57-yards in the 4^th quarter was precise and over the head of Stanford Routt – Branch made the touchdown saving tackle.

SPECIAL TEAMS: C-

Stefan Logan’s 83-yard kickoff return to open the game startled the Raiders. But Oakland’s defense kept the Steelers out of the end zone. Logan had another solid return later in the game for 37-yards to set-up a Pittsburgh possession at their own 40. Sebastian Janikowski nailed both of his field goal attempts (48 and 43 yards) in a tough outdoor stadium to kick in. Shane Lechler had 6-punts, averaging 46.8 per. Gary Russell had one of his better games with 72-yards worth of kickoff returns.

COACHING: B

Tom Cable got a little mischievous in opening the playbook. Bush’s halfback pass was on a 3^rd and 8 – a risky play – considering the field position they had. Ultimately they scored on that drive, but not the player you want passing the ball against a defense that likes to bring pressure. In their opening drive of the second half, Cable called for more trickery on a hand off to McFadden, which he lateral back to Gradkowski and wound up losing 16-yards. The passing plays called were aided by Gradkowski’s improvising, but Cable did make the right calls during that scoring outburst in the final quarter. Something he would have never been able to relay to Russell if he was in the game. The Raiders scored 21-points in the 4^th quarter – a stunning development considering their woes on offense late in games. And after disheartening drives by the home team, Oakland answered with big plays of their own – a credit to the coaching staff keeping the morale of this team up in a tough stadium to play in, on a cold day versus a team playing for their playoff lives. John Marshall’s bunch blitzed today from all the levels of their defense and gave the Steelers’ offense all they could handle. The defense played a solid game into the 2^nd half until the madness begun and both teams started exploding in the waning moments.

Bruce Gradkowski’s performance on Sunday just earned him a shot at proving his case to why he should be leading the Oakland Raiders, and not JaMarcus Russell.

Realistically, we all know that the money and years invested on the LSU product will weigh heavily on their decision for the future. We all know that Al Davis – who has the final say on any and all decisions – will let his feelings be known about who should be under center. And that will be an uphill battle for Gradkowski. But for one weekend, he did what is asked of every quarterback in this league – and that’s to win.

Moreover, he led with passion, feistiness, playing within himself, evading key mistakes and performing when it mattered most. His numbers were not eye popping. But the outcome and how the team played while he was in the huddle and at the helm spoke volumes.

Sure, the back-up quarterback is generally a fan-base’s solution to everything. And we’ve seen many second stringers come into games, have short stints as a starter, play well enough to tease and then fizzle out quickly when they get propelled to the forefront.

In this case, what Gradkowski did and what was seen against the Cincinnati Bengals is an indictment on what Russell has not done or been able to accomplish.

Unlike Russell, Gradkowski has altered this offense in his first week of practice and debut as a starter into a confident group. Something a highly touted passer picked number one overall should do, don’t you think?

Last week, Zach Miller stated, “He’s obviously a pretty smart guy, reads things well, throws a real good ball. He’s a pro quarterback, so they’re all good. We feel like we’ll be able to throw it around better now.”

No, Oakland’s best offensive player was not talking about the prospective gun slinging big-armed passer they got in the draft.

The Raiders toughest talent on offense stated, “A love for the game that he shows in the way he plays, the way he calls plays. The way he works on details of plays with players, in between. He’s just uh, I think that’s the main thing I’m seeing with him. It’s just, he’s a get-after-it type of guy.”

Justin Fargas was not talking about the guy given a lot of money after he held out for all of his first camp and pre-season and that has been critiqued for his lack of passion for the game since.

Darren McFadden continued with the valuation of Gradkowski commenting, “He goes through all his reads. He’s been making the right decisions”

Russell has made a lot of bad decisions on and off the field; whether reading a defense, or not yearning or immersing himself into his craft; like a quarterback who was chosen to be the savior of an organization should.

And for those reasons, Gradkowski should finish 2009 as the starter in Oakland. If he bombs and does not perform well, Russell will get back in there – its not realistic to think at this point that the Silver & Black will part ways with the 24-year old. And even if he ends the campaign on a roll, all that will do is raise questions on who should be leading this team, while challenging Russell to elevate his game and give Oakland a nice quarterback controversy in 2010.

And boy, is this organization used to their share of controversy.

MURPHY PRAISING HIS QB

Rookie Louis Murphy hauled in the tying touchdown late in the 4^th quarter. After the game he stated about his quarterback: “It was a great approach. This week, he was full of energy,” Murphy said. “He commanded the huddle, and he was punctual, and he was ready for the Bengals . . . he said that we’re gonna continue to try to just move the ball and try to get first downs. Nothing too big, just move the chains. So that’s what we did.”

BRANCH PRAISED BY CABLE

Tom Cable praised starting SS Tyvon Branch on Monday when asked if the second year pro had one of his finest games yesterday, stating, “I don’t think there’s any question.”

He got a game ball after tallying 12-tackles, one-sack, a pass defended and a forced fumble.

NOTES

Yankees hurler CC Sabathia visited the Black Hole during Sunday's game vs. the Bengals

• New York Yankees ace CC Sabathia – a long time Raider fan – was in attendance on Sunday.
• Linebacker Ricky Brown was placed on injured reserve, ending his season. The starting linebacker suffered an ankle injury earlier in the campaign. Oakland added LB David Nixon to the active roster.

QUARTERBACK: B

Bruce Gradkowski is now 4-9 in his career while starting and 1-0 at the helm of the Silver & Black. His decisiveness, inspiring play and ability to diversify the offense with his accuracy helped the Raider offense churn out yardage when they needed it most and it got them their first second half touchdown in seven games. His nine-yard touchdown pass to Zach Miller ended a personal three-year drought (11/19/2006) and was his first scoring pass in 116 attempts. He led Oakland in a way JaMarcus Russell hasn’t. Gradkowski managed the game well with his feet, evading sacks and getting rid of the ball quickly when all his options were covered and pressure was coming. On the game tying drive, his quick release on a blitz was able to gain 19-yards on 2^nd and 4. Then on 4^th and 10, he hit an open Chaz Schilens to give the Raiders life. The 29-yard toss to his rookie target was one of the most clutch plays this season.

RUNNING BACKS & FULLBACKS: C –

After a solid performance last week, Michael Bush could have been a goat today with his fumble in the 3^rd quarter. That turnover led to a 25-yard Shayne Graham field goal, which extended the Bengals lead to 17-10. He did average 6.8 yards per carry on his 4 attempts. Darren McFadden played a physical contest, finishing a few of his six carries with blows to the attempting tackler. He had 9 touches for 25-yards, many of them on earlier downs that helped Gradkowski into manageable down and distances in key drives. Justin Fargas led the team with 8 carries for 32-yards. Oakland did not need a powerful ground game today, something you couldn’t say if Russell was under center. Luke Lawton helped with 3 grabs for 14 yards.

WIDE RECEIVERS & TIGHT ENDS: B –

Louis Murphy’s lone catch of the game was a 29-yard strike that tied the game with 33 seconds remaining in the game. He worked the cornerback well and was able to adjust to make the reception and bolt into the end zone. Zach Miller had another solid effort with 5 receptions for 65-yards and a score. His back-to-back catches; on 2^nd and 4 for 19-yards and on 1^st and 10 for 9-yards in the game tying drive helped move the chains. In his second game this campaign, Chaz Schilens hauled in a stellar 25-yard pass to start a drive, jumping to snag the football with a cornerback draped on him and a 16-yard catch on 4^th and 10 with the game on the line. Darrius Heyward-Bey dropped a potential first-down on a 3^rd and 4 in the 2^nd quarter, but snagged a 7-yard pass on a 3^rd and 3. In the 3^rd quarter, the speedy rookie did draw a 19-yard pass interference flag on Leon Hall.

OFFENSIVE LINE: B

This group played well at times, others they got mixed up in trying to block the varying Bengal blitzes. Gradkowski’s mobility and instant decision making kept Cincinnati from tallying a sack. Robert Gallery mauled the interior of the defensive line during Bush’s 10-yard gain on 3^rd and 2 in the 3^rd quarter. Most of the Bengals pressure was up the gut of the trenches and surprisingly, starting right tackle Cornell Green played a mistake free game. Samson Satele and Gradkowski had a mix-up during an exchange that was recovered by Domato Peko. Gradkowski’s interception to open a drive in the 4^th quarter was facilitated by the pressure the Bengals applied. The passer floated a pass into the hands of Jonathan Joseph as Oakland attempted for a quick strike to Murphy.

DEFENSIVE LINE: B –

The run defense allowed way too many yards (177). But many times, the front-four was able to pressure Carson Palmer. Cincinnati has protected their passer all year very well, allowing a mere 14-sacks in 2009, but Oakland was able to compile three sacks. Greg Ellis had a huge sack late in the 4^th quarter on a 3^rd and 12. Desmond Bryant added energy to the defensive line and played well in place of Richard Seymour, who left in the opening quarter with a lower back injury. Jay Richardson played with a good motor.

LINEBACKERS: A

Probably the best game the linebackers played all season. Thomas Howard was very active, firing through the line of scrimmage on many stops and covering tailback Brian Leonard on a deep pattern to force an incompletion. Kirk Morrison had his best game of the year with 4-tackles – two behind the line of scrimmage. Sam Williams was in on a turnover that Desmond Bryant facilitated.

SECONDARY: B

This was a Jekyll and Hide game for this unit. Tyvon Branch tallied 12-tackles. He was routinely making stops around the line of scrimmage and in the backfield. On a 3^rd and 6 in the 2^nd quarter, Branch blitzed, sacked Palmer and forced a fumble when Cincinnati was at the OAK 27-yard line. He did get burned on an Andre Caldwell 17-yard reception in the 1^st quarter, but he dove in the end-zone to break up a potential score on a 2^nd and goal in the 3^rd quarter – a key play as Graham missed a 37-yarder five plays later. The safety out of UCONN also saved a touchdown as the last line of defense on Bernard Scott’s 23-yard reception on 2^nd and 22 in the 1^st quarter. Chris Johnson was torched deep by Laveranues Coles for 40-yards, he whiffed when trying to tackle Scott that resulted in a 61-yard run, but he had a nice tackle behind the line of scrimmage and broke up a pass intended for Chad Ochocinco on a drive that the Bengals went three-and-out in the final quarter. Stanford Routt was infracted for roughing the passer on a 3^rd and goal. The dumb penalty gave Cincinnati a new set of downs, but Routt redeemed himself three plays later on 3^rd and goal with an 18-yard sack of Palmer that hurt Graham when he missed his field goal on the ensuing play. Nnamdi Asomugha closed the game with an interception, but on a few occasions, Ochocinco got the best of him. His blitz broke containment on Scott’s long run. Mike Mitchell played sparingly and had a couple of run stuffing tackles.

SPECIAL TEAMS: A

Rookie tight end Brandon Myers had the play of the game; stripping Caldwell on the game’s final kickoff with seconds remaining and recovering the loose ball at the Bengals 17-yard line. A few plays later, Sebastian Janikowski nailed his second field goal of the game from 37-yards out with 15 seconds remaining, giving Oakland the late victory. He missed from 57-yards wide right after Cincinnati called a time-out to freeze him and missed wide left officially as time expired in the first half. Shane Lechler boomed a 66-yard punt and averaged 50.5 per kick this afternoon. Jonathan Holland continues to be hesitant during kickoff returns and a non-threat. Coming into the game, the Oakland special teams had the fewest number of penalties called on the in the NFL (4).

COACHING: B

The play calling was significantly different with Gradkowski at quarterback. Oakland tossed the ball 34-times and the offense was pass happy on many drives. Tom Cable’s club looked impressive out of the gate in the 2^nd half, putting together a 10-play drive and cutting the Bengals lead to 14-10 after intermission. The blitzing defense was a similar attack they installed against the Eagles, and it kept the often-stationary Palmer moving in the pocket. The team played motivated even after falling behind and they came from behind in front of an empty building. It was disturbing to see the Bengals shoot themselves in the foot consistently, but with the upper hand regardless at times. In the opening drive, Cincy had 3 flags and converted on two long down and distances and after they took a 14-0 lead, they led Oakland 217-to-14 in total yards, had tallied 15 first downs as oppose to the Raiders one, and had a time of possession lead of 19:48 to 3:00. But Oakland forced turnovers and pressured the over confident Bengals, who came into the contest undefeated on the road and looking to put away their division after the Steelers were upset by the Chiefs earlier in the day.

GAME NOTES

• Ochocinco was flagged twice for false starts, playing anxiously in trying to get an edge by releasing early off the line against Oakland’s top-flight cornerback. He finished the game with 4-receptions for 67-yards.
• Gradkowski induced am encroachment penalty with his cadence in the first quarter. In total, the Bengals compiled 8-penalties for 59-yards. The Raiders’ passer facilitated another offside infraction later in the game, but the penalty was declined due to a McFadden 9-yard gain. Gradkowski finished 17 for 34 for 183 yards with an INT and two touchdowns.
• Rookie Bernard Scott ran for a season-high 119 yards in place of the injured Cedric Benson. Former Chief Larry Johnson had two carries for 5 yards in his first game as a Bengal.

Contact Author: Victor Cotto – SB Report Columnist