July 28, 2008
Raiders camp thoughts, news, reactions, and a correction
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Mmm! Oakland Raiders change diet for their players
As I was looking through some of the reports concerning the Raiders, I realized that there are 11 wide receivers in camp right now. Last year, the Raiders held on to five out of 15 or 16 that attended camp. Those are long odds if your name isn't Javon, Ronald, or Drew. Of course those three, (Javon Walker, Ronald Curry, and Drew Carter), have solidified their respective spots thus far. So who else will make the team this season?
The average number of receivers kept on a team is about 6, so that would leave only three spots up for grabs between the remaining eight. Going into camp, my rankings are as follows:
1. Todd Watkins
2. Arman Shields
3. Johnnie Lee Higgins
4. Jonathan Holland
5. Chris McFoy
6. Chaz Schilens
7. Drisan James
8. Marcel Reece
Obviously, these rankings are one man's opinion and as with any rankings they can change at a moments notice. In fact, they did change moments before writing this so those are my 'right now' rankings. I struggled with putting Higgins so far up on the list because I'm a serious doubter when it comes to that kid's ability to be even a useful player.
Out of all of the receivers, it's Todd Watkins that continues to get the rave reviews. His acrobatic catches and consistent output is making it very clear that he'll get playing time this year.
Both Shields and Schilens, this year's Raiders receiving draft picks, have both been berated by receiver's coach, James Lofton. Apparentley those two are rookies. Actually, both of them reportedly have had their troubles catching the ball, but it was Shields who's been reportedly corrected for a half speed route.
Chris McFoy and Marcel Reece have made some catches, but they've been more off the radar. Jonathan Holland is getting an opportunity to be the reason that Higgins gets cut, and I'm still wondering if Drisan James is with the team because he's been nearly invisible thus far.
Day 5 highlights
- The top story of the day is that Fred Wakefield is now playing a third position, with the possibility of a fourth. He was playing at the right guard spot and has also played tackle. If the Raiders who are supposed to play tackle don't get their acts together, it's possible that he could be moved there also.
- The reason for the top story is because of this one. After only four days of camp and restrictions on hitting, the Raiders suffered their first 'true' injury. I say 'true' injury, because offensive lineman Mark Wilson won't be coming back this season. Wilson, during the evening practice on Sunday, suffered a broken leg and a sprained ankle. Hopefully, he'll come back stronger next season.
- By all accounts, rookie tight end Darrel Strong made the play of the day. Running across the middle, from right to left, he was able to tip a ball thrown behind him to himself and make the catch while being blanketed by former starting free safety Hiram Eugene.
- When asked what the Raiders needed to improve on offense this season, Lane Kiffin replied, "It's the passing game." He wants to see more explosiveness out of the passing game and pointed out that the Raiders did well with the running game, but all of the positions on the field during the passing game needs to improve this year. Kiffin in went further after a follow up question about Lofton by saying, "James has done a great job with our guys...helped us in the free agency with Drew [Carter], in the recruiting process...so he's been very valuable to us."
- Kiffin said that Jon Alston is getting a wide-open opportunity to make the team because they are giving him plenty of chances. He also agreed that he's been flashing. He's considered a speed linebacker and will be manning Schwiegert's old spot on special teams.
- Kiffin got the opportunity to wax more poetic on Darren McFadden. Interesting to note that Kiffin said he wants to be a part of everything and he's really into playing football, so much so that he was in a special teams meeting the other day that he wasn't invited to just so he could learn it. Here are some of the quotes, "...He just wants to be a part of everything...it's everything we thought when we picked him...I can't think of one negative with him."
- DeAngelo Hall is happy to be a Raider. When asked how his first silver and black camp was going he said, "It's fun again, it kind of lost all the fun in Atlanta...it's just fun again to play football." He also had this to tell Raider Nation when asked what they can expect: "Just, just plays. I'm trying to make as many plays as possible. You might see me back there returning kicks. You might see me on offense. It's kinda', it's all up in the air." Maybe we'll have to call him 'slash?'
- Brad Roll is making quite the impression as the Raiders new strength and conditioning coach. He's changed the diet that the team is on. To make it easy to explain, if it's not healthy, you won't find it in the Raider facility or in the Raiders lunch room. Man! Those guys have it rough!
Al Davis, along with son Mark and the Dark Princess herself, Amy Trask, attended practice...again. If you've been paying attention, you know that Davis has rarely been available to watch practice over the past two years. In this training camp alone, he's already been to two...in a row! It's only newsworthy because it's been a while since he was a fixture during any organized team activity. We at TFDS only wonder if he can keep this pace up for the entire camp, let alone the year.
Correction (and who said we don't do retractions?)
Ok, so maybe it's not as much a retraction as it is a correction. In my article yesterday, I wrote the following:
"Sam Williams is in a heated battle with Robert Thomas for the SLB spot. Apparently, Grant Irons was also being considered strongly until he got hurt."
Apparently, I left out Ricky Brown. Kiffin said that the competition was wide open for Brown to win the starting spot and he was doing a really great job of it. In fact, Brown was playing with the first team in Monday's practice session. He didn't disappoint either as he got a run stuff of Michael Bush and an interception of a JaMarcus Russell pass. We apologize if you've already placed your bet at Caesars sports book on the Raiders starting strong side linebacker to start the season.
Just keeping the books straight here at TFDS,
Discussion
30 Comments on "Raiders camp thoughts, news, reactions, and a correction"
#1
Posted by Big John, July 28, 2008 11:17 PM
What happened to Hartwell? I woulda thought that he might have an edge on the SLB spot due to his experience and playing ability on other teams. At least he was good in Madden. Haha. Also, I've been hearing that our offense has been really inconsistent so far. Do you think that should be a concern Rob?
#2
Posted by Rob Calonge, July 28, 2008 11:40 PM
Hey Big John! Hartwell is still in the mix and making plays, but for right now those are your top three at the SLB for right now. I always liked him in Madden too. :-)
I'm very concerned about the offense right now and probably will be until I see that they can hold up against another team, so until then I hold my panic. Thanks for stopping by.
#3
Posted by raidermomo64, July 28, 2008 11:48 PM
Can't wait for MNF to see our Raiders in prime time baby. Go Raiders!! 10-6
#4
Posted by Thoughts from the Dark Side: Raiders camp thoughts, news, reactions, and a correction | The RaiderCa, July 28, 2008 11:58 PM
[...] Read more. Posted in Commentary, NFL News, Oakland Raiders | [...]
#5
Posted by azraider37, July 29, 2008 12:12 AM
Hey Ulmer, did he really say Rex Ryan? If he did that's kind of like Al saying that we are happy to have Lance Kiffen as our new coach. If everyone loves this guy so much, how come you never hear about him having a shot to start for us. He hasn't done anything for two seasons, I'm thinking that he is done.
#6
Posted by Nick C, July 29, 2008 1:31 AM
On Calling Amy the Dark princess...she is a hottie as i met her today and she signed an autograph for me and spent a couple minutes talking to me.. and naming the players i had autographed on my raiders sign.. and i am not talking the big names.. she pointed out Mario Henderson.. I was very impressed.. she turned on the Charm and won me over....she took the time to thank me for coming out to training camp, and i am not part of the groups that go in with the Corp people.. but the ones that wait at the gate hoping to get in to get autographs..
Very professional.. and like i said at around 5' she is a little hottie with a very sweet and sexy voice ;) ok.. time for a cold shower
#7
Posted by Matador, July 29, 2008 7:39 AM
I'm glad Ricky Brown is getting a good look. He was a animal at Boston College. I thought Kiffin appointed Higgins the leading canidate for returning punts.I'm not a huge fan of his but I think he'll get 1 more year to see if he can contribute to the team.
#8
Posted by Matador, July 29, 2008 8:14 AM
Good Write up Rob. Rob I just read the Burgess has been pratcing at LB. Do you think the Raiders are going to switch to a 3-4 defence?
#9
Posted by Rob Calonge, July 29, 2008 9:38 AM
Nick C - You're just figuring that (Amy=HOT) now? ;-) That's why she's the DARK PRINCESS!
Raidermomo64 - I think all of Raider Nation shares that thought.
Matador - Thanks, and don't worry about the 3-4. Since Rob Ryan has been around they've ran it more often than in the past. I always thought Burgess should be the up man in that system anyway. What has really excited me is the Raiders Dime D. Normally there is either 0 or 1 linebacker in that defense, but the Raiders have such gifted linebackers in Morrison and Howard that they stay on in the Dime. That means that they can play the nickel or bring Wilson up and play a 4-3 hybrid. That's pretty sweet.
#10
Posted by KUSHMAN, July 29, 2008 11:03 AM
good write up. guys... i honestly don't think there's that much cause for concern when it comes to this offense.. i mean, they were 6th place rushing JUST WITH FARGAS... at the very least it will look the same.. and i know for a fact that this offense will be much better in the red zone than last year.. that's all they really lacked.. they always settled with the field goal.. i just know this running offense will give the defense time to rest.. and keep that star backfield healthy and hungry.
#11
Posted by Umer Waris, July 29, 2008 11:22 AM
Hey Rob speaking of Hartwell check out what he said:
"Becoming an Oakland Raider means more to me than just getting back on the field. It's a chance to play for the best franchise in football history. It has the best fans that any sport has to offer, a great cast of talented players & coaches, a legend as an owner, one of the best (attack style) defensive coordinators in the league in Rex Ryan, and most of all I get to be reunited with the best coach I have EVER played for Coach Don Martindale. I vow to do everything in my power to bring another Superbowl to Al Davis and the Raider Nation."
Thats one nice guy dont you think!
Oh and this is what Linebacker coach Don Martindale states;
"Instinctively this guy has not lost a step. He has brought his toughness to the team; which has spread throughout our LB meeting room. This guy is everyday tough! A true veteran; who wants everyone around him to get better." He goes on to say; "In the National Football League or in College Football something that has always separated Ed from other Linebackers I have coached. You don't have to watch him play because you can hear him play!"
#12
Posted by Umer Waris, July 29, 2008 11:24 AM
Rob,
You should check out what RF365 is saying aout the O-line in their new article about the Raiders. Not very optimistic.
#13
Posted by Nick C, July 29, 2008 1:27 PM
Rob,
I thought she was a cutie before....but with the professional attitude, that didn't do it for me.. but talking to her in person... she has a very soft demeanor, tho i wouldn't want to cross her, as i was told by someone else that she likes to chew people up, but that comes with her position, but to be talked to as a person, which you don't always get hanging around there try to get autographs.. It was very refreshing
#14
Posted by Bill, July 29, 2008 2:31 PM
Did you guys hear that D-Mac is takeing some direct snaps in the offense? This is something he did in college. I wonder if it will work out for him like it did at AR. Mabey with a two back set he could throw it to Bush that would be something.
#15
Posted by kelly, July 29, 2008 3:52 PM
Honestly, I hope they keep it as simple as possible for Dmac, break him in slowly. Line him up, put a hat on a hat and let him run off tackle. It's his initial burst through the hole, a great stiff arm and his ability to hit top speed in two steps that are his biggest strengths imo. I believe too much is being made of his versatility at this point. Just take it slowly, play to his greatest strengths and the results should be there.
The guy, if nothing else is a tough football player, an explosive offensive talent with a defensive mentality and unreal determination and heart.
#16
Posted by 3@21, July 29, 2008 3:55 PM
***2MANY WHO HASNT SEEN Mr.HALL AT CORNERBACK PLAY THAT MUCH...HE IS IN THE BEST PLACE POSSIBLE WITH THE RAIDERS"HE JUST ALL WAYZ FELT LIKE A RAIDERS CORNER.IM FROM ATLANTA SO I SAW HIM PLAY EVER SUNDAY.HE IS A TOUGH,PHYSICAL,LUVS 2COME UP &MAKE PLAYS &1 OF THE BEST TRASH TALKERS WE HAVE N THE NFL!!!
GO RAIDERS GO #23
WE WILL HAVE 2CORNERS 2PLAY N THE PRO*BOWL THIS YEAR!!!
MARK MY WORD!!!
#17
Posted by silver&black88, July 29, 2008 4:44 PM
I agree with kelly, allow DMC to learn a few things and learn them well and then move, as stated by Kiff in an old interview. I seriously hope they don't do too much with him because I don't want to screw him up lik NO did to Reggie Bush. He was awful without McCallister
#18
Posted by silver&black88, July 29, 2008 4:45 PM
Correction, I think actually Greg Knapp said that
#19
Posted by Hit, Tackle & Swarm...REM., July 29, 2008 6:25 PM
I believe the only way to start the 2008 season on the defense of side is to hit and hit again...Swarm the ball carrier with everyone on that field and tackle that son of a gun and make it hurt...Bring back the good old years when you heard the the sound of the Oakland Raiders...Oponents shit them selves...Bring back the good old times when the Raiders were in the hunt year afer year no matter whom might be coaching...Hit, Tackle, Swarm that son of a gun with the ball and i bet the offense will be pump up too.
#20
Posted by KUSHMAN, July 29, 2008 6:50 PM
yes i also agree... kiffen's interview about j-russ and dmac was just broadcasted on nfl network ... he announced it to the entire country "so much of our success this year depends on the development of darren and jarmarus. escpecially jamarcus because he'll be touching the ball every down unlike darren ... " that almost concluded his entire speach on the subject, and to be quite honest he didnt sound too enthused about the idea(not that i'd somewhat blame him). the man pretty much billboarded his troubles with AD and didn't sound like he had much confidence.. hopefully that was just me and I HOPE its his voice going out from yelling too much in training camp.
and as silv&blk said...lane already stated months ago that he didn't want to throw too much at dmac all at once.. and we all know he has experience with a thunder and lightning mix in lendale white and reggie bush.. yes im stating the obvious.. but it just needs to be re-itterated over and over because despite his possible lack of confidence or big gay al breathing down his neck (that would be disguisting) i truly believe lane knows what he's doing with the development of all the rookies, i mean his career as a nfl coach depends on it! the man is just experimenting with darren in my opinion, just as he did in mini-camp. and also keep in mind that darren is EXTREMELY open minded and willing to do anything.. both of them will do whatever it takes to get that 6 on the board instead of settling with a 3 point kick. lane has also stated on more than one occasion that he will do everything in his power to put the team in the best position to win, and that continues to be encouraging. everyone needs to be optimistic in the fact that if something like taking a snap in shotgun can cause mass confusion on a defense consistantly because of the endless options, it may worth the risk on a WELL PAID indivual. and plus, in the worst possible case scenario, when the plan fails miserably, he can always go back to I formation without missing a beat, he never had a problem switching back and forth in college and had all the confidence in the world doing it... that at the very least will carry over with him to the NFL.
whatever happens.... RA RA RAAAAIDERZZZ!!!
#21
Posted by Hit, Tackle & Swarm...REM., July 29, 2008 7:19 PM
Fundamentals is the key to success on both sides of the ball...J.R. & the back-up QB's better be on the same page all the time with the rest of the offense players prior to taking the snap to cut down on the fumbles and the offsides being commtted time and again...Keep it simple and so everyone can drive off the snap...So what if the defense might get the right count once in a while if he is on his backside you don't need to be fancy and the job is done.
#22
Posted by KUSHMAN, July 29, 2008 7:25 PM
yes rob i know you already said he's willing to do anything... didn't need to repeat that my appologies.
#23
Posted by Umer Waris, July 29, 2008 7:58 PM
azraider37,
Man seriously I didnt know he said Rex Ryan untill you pointed it out! Thats weird! I copy, pasted it exactly from the article. Hah
#24
Posted by Hit, Tackle & Swarm...REM., July 29, 2008 7:58 PM
Special Teams: Punting the football out of bounds will spell no return yardage and less injuries for the up-coming games...Kick Off always makes a good impression on the coaches face when he can see a punishing hit prior to the returner hits the ground and in the preseason that will be the ticket to making the roster...Nobody forgets a good a pop especially Mr. Davis
#25
Posted by KUSHMAN, July 29, 2008 8:31 PM
everyone forgot about stewie's monster hit on tony gonsalez in the first game against the chiefs, especially Al. ohh man it was a sweet one coming from him.. it was a very rare moment for him obviously...that's going to happen way more consistently coming from the next bob sanders (aka S'OVAH) gibril wilson. have fun in the box more gibril, i am URGING you to get more tackles than cpt kirk... he had 124 last year, if you somehow get at least that much.. you are the hero of that defense. you had better earn the commitment to excellence award....
#26
Posted by MrMojo4321, July 29, 2008 8:45 PM
Its a great read Rob, I'd like to see Reece sneak in as ill defined special teams, fourth Rb, third Fb, third TE roster spot. Watkins is sounding like a great find. Good for Ricky Brown, if he takes the starting spot that gives the linebacker unit a lot of depth. Depth typically means fresh legs which is always good. However the 53 man roster turns out, I'm sure Lane will make the right calls.
KUSHMAN - I think your over analyzing Lane's voice a little. That's just his press tone/voice, never too enthusiastic, never too downtrodden, always candid to the best of his knowledge. Either way I still have faith in our coach.
One Nation...
#27
Posted by MrMojo4321, July 29, 2008 8:48 PM
Hey I remembered the Stu smack, if nothing but for the novelty of it.
One Nation...
#28
Posted by KUSHMAN, July 29, 2008 10:29 PM
yea i have the faith. but like someone on here made a good point that he was much more up on life about everything... that was before he knew about Al. he might say he knew what AD was like when he took the job... much im thinking more along the lines of he didn't know about his SENIOR MOMENTS! :P
things will come to together very soon.. i believe in the '08 raiders!!
#29
Posted by KUSHMAN, July 29, 2008 10:30 PM
wow did i just say like, wow i hang around too many valley girls...
#30
Posted by Umer Waris, July 29, 2008 11:54 PM
Kushman,
Yeah that was an awesome hit. The ball popped out of him and Gonzelez was found on the sideline soon afterwards! By the the way, I liked the 'Sandman' nickname better. I mean S'Ovah, what the hell is that! Yeah, 'it is over' for Sanders as now Gibril "The Enforcer" Wilson takes a place in a Raider defense aimed at hitting... HARD!
The Raiders often play a 4-4 with the safety coming in to aid the LBs and just for that, expect alot of tackles coming The Enforcer's way. As for somewhere near 125 tackles, I wont my bets on it. More like maybe 70-90.
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