Oakland Raiders offensive firepower to set the NFL ablaze: Thoughts from a Reader's Side

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May 6, 2008

Oakland Raiders offensive firepower to set the NFL ablaze: Thoughts from a Reader's Side

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We have a first time contributer to Thoughts from a Reader's Side tonight. Umer aka Raider Till Death has his take on the Oakland Raiders offense with Darren McFadden. He expects the Raiders to light up the scoreboard with their new weaponry.

The Offensive Firepower that is to be set Ablaze in Oakland

by Raider Till Death

Special to Thoughts from the Dark Side

Well, I was never a proponent of a McFadden selection before & after the draft but as time passed, I quickly began to comprehend the reason behind the pick. Understanding that our running game finished sixth last year with Fargas reaching the 1000-year mark, Rhodes showing progress in the last few games of the season and the college stud in Bush returning healthy and even Jordan as an adequate backup, I was beyond the point of insanity when Roger Goodell announced that McFadden would be coming to the Raiders. I actually began to sob for Fargas and the rest of the RB roster for what they had accomplished for us last year and in return, only received a big slap on their faces having to compete even harder for a position on the team. Worst of all, the Raiders passed on the run stopping menace, who was expected to be gone by no.3 (if not no. 2) and the best Defensive player in the draft, Glen Dorsey knowing that their run defense gave up a staggering 145.9 yards per game and allowed a league-worst of 5.3 yards per carry!?! My first thoughts were "Are all the things they say about Al Davis being old and mentally challenged actually true?" I prayed for a trade to the Jets so we could at least land Sedrick Ellis but that idea went in vain. So that's how it went for me on draft day.

I started reading more and more thoughts, opinions and comments on our fourth overall pick until I realized how McFadden was actually the missing piece that the Raider offense finally acquired. Dorsey was, without doubt, a run-stopping menace but the truth was that he played the same three technique spot as Tommy Kelly whom Al Davis & Co. already have heavily invested in, both in money and belief. I also started understanding Kiffin's role in this selection. Having been an offensive mastermind at USC, he most anxiously desired to shape a running back tandem of McFadden, Fargas and Bush the likes of which he molded in Reggie Bush and Lendale White. With McFadden being the Big play, TD-scoring monster and Fargas & Bush alternating carries bringing in a blend of power & speed, opposing defenses will be stunned just as they were with Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson in Minnesota (except the one in the Big Oak has the potential to be even more lethal!). With this newly established ground attack, Russell will have some considerable pressure taken off of him and more time to develop into the first overall selection we seen him to be in LSU. I have no doubt in my mind that this QB has the power to develop into something mighty in this league behind Mcfadden, Fargas and Bush.

Yes, our run defense still needs a makeover but we are just going to have to wait and see what trick Al Davis pulls out of his hat this time.

Raider Till Death is a regular reader of Thoughts from the Dark Side. If you would like to contribute a future article to Thoughts from a Reader's Side, email me at mvnraider at yahoo.com. ��

Tags: NFL, Oakland Raiders, Raiders

Discussion

65 Comments on "Oakland Raiders offensive firepower to set the NFL ablaze: Thoughts from a Reader's Side"

Posted by rejake, May 6, 2008 12:01 AM

has anyone considered the secondary we have now? go back and add up the cumulative tackles & interceptions for the last few seasons between Hall, Huff, Wilson, and Asomugha. let them try to pass against us. these guys are gonna be fighting over the tackles & int.'s. since they won't be a ble to pass against us, we already know they're running. We got 'em & they're gonna get stuck hard!

DT & OT may not be our strongest positions but everywhere else is pro-bowl material.

as for the RB situation, we need to get Jordan gone, lean on Fargas for tough downs, but eventually we've still got Bush & McFadden (or should I say Jackson & Allen)?

our talent is awesome and our potential is limitless! we're going to the playoffs! who cares about our run yards allowed last season... dmac is gonna top those numbers by himself per game!

Posted by LDizzle, May 6, 2008 12:22 AM

Correction make that the 7th round that Bo was drafted in.

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Posted by LDizzle, May 6, 2008 12:29 AM

You have a point rejake and that is something I have thought about. With our secondary along with Thomas and/or Morrison playing pass, we can safely assume they will try and run on us and if they plan for that probability it will help our run defense. Also blitzing someone like Wilson or a linebacker randomly would keep them on their toes too.

Jordan will be gone after June 12th so he won't count as much against the cap. That is the only reason he is still on the roster. If there is anything AD will always be a master at it is the salary cap. Nobody does it better.

As a side note; I am still holding out hope of getting Anthony McFarland and/or Rosevelt Colvin before the season starts. Perhaps Ed Hartwell can return to the form he had with the Ravens few years ago. At which point I was very vocal about the Raiders getting him.

Posted by Raider Blues, May 6, 2008 12:35 AM

Ok LDizzle whatever that means...

Here's the statement:

How many times have we drafted a top notch RB? Allen, Bo and ???

Oh and just so you know...taking Bo in the fifth round with the chance he might play is more TOP NOTCH than taking a first round RB knowing he'll play for you!

I've read Bo Knows Bo and have been a fan since age 6 in 76 just so you know. I've followed all the drafts and been disappointed more times than I care to remember but these last 2 years were good.

Oh and just so you know...

Kaufman was pretty good but not in this class Marcus and Bo along with DMC - anyone disagree???

Back to the valley LDizzle...

Posted by raidernut, May 6, 2008 12:44 AM

Since when has Glen Dorsey ever been considered a run stopping machine? He's the best pass rushing DT there is and thats what he's known for. Kiffin even said, we could have put Dorsey at NT but he wouldn't have been able to take up two blockers, he's only like 305. Also why would we take a top 5 pick and put him out of position? There was absolutely no way we were taking dorsey at number 4 EVEN IF MCFADDEN WAS GONE. We would have taken the best trade offer for dorsey, which I heard was this years and next years 1st and this years second (proposed by the saints). With all the money we paid to kelly and sands why would we want to add top 5 money to that position? I wrote pretty much the exact same analysis like a month and a half ago on a different site. I understand its your first post on the raiders, but you're just saying what was pretty obvious a month and a half ago. Not impressed with your style of writing either.

Posted by Barry, May 6, 2008 12:47 AM

As a Patriots fan on the east coast I can't say I've seen the Raiders play much the last few years. That being said, here's my take:

McFadden will be a stud. No question. If he stays healthy he will gain some big yardage. Still, I think you should have picked Dorsey. Your run D was pretty bad last year, and I don't think one person (Tommy kelly) or even 2 (Edwards) can fix it on their own. You need a rotation on the D line to keep those big guys fresh, and Dorsey would have been a huge step in the right direction. I think a D that can get the ball back would be more helpful to Russell than another running back.

Either way, best of luck this year. I think between FA and the draft you've improved a ton.

Posted by Raider Blues, May 6, 2008 12:54 AM

So take Dorsey and you still need an End. You don't win any more games and your fans leave. DMC will make the difference I've been saying and the good thing is it will all come out in the wash when we see how KC does with him this year.

We'll get to see just who was right if that's what we all want to see right in front of us with the Chefs. If it's anything like what DMC did to him in college twice then I'm satisfied.

I'm willing to bet Dorsey will have a short career anyway.

Just Win Baby!

Posted by EvilJester, May 6, 2008 12:55 AM

Straight crackhead analysis. The Fargas/Bush/Rhodes backfield would have been more deadly than last year, and with a run-blocking scheme finally coming together, we were ALREADY on track to be an elite running team this season - probably top-5.

Who cares if we move from, say #5 in the NFL in rushing yards to #1 . . . if our run-defense stays in the bottom 1/4...!?!?!

McFadden was the best player in the draft, but (besides quarterback) was the one position we DID NOT NEED.

The only way it makes sense is if the plan is to dump Jordan while he still has ANY value on the market, and pick up a big-body, wide-load DT.

Believe it, or not . . . its the truth.

#10

Posted by Raider Blues, May 6, 2008 1:00 AM

First!

I'm so glad one has converted!

Now the the rest of you = convert!

Just Win Baby!

#11

Posted by Terrance, May 6, 2008 1:01 AM

I 100% agree with you on this one. I felt the same way, but also couldn't help but feel a slight smile cross my face for having such a playmaker in the Silver and Black. I put my optimism in the fact that we were in just about all of our games this season and lost a lot of them by only one score. That one score could come from our playmaker, Run-DMC, which in turn could force the opponents to pass instead of playing conservatively, taking pressure off of the Run Defense.

Isn't that what we all want? Our DL forcing passes into our secondary.

Isn't that what we all want?

#12

Posted by Rolni, May 6, 2008 2:25 AM

You are right man!!!I feel the same!!

But don't wait for some trickery...they are high on Sands, and if he can play like in 06 he and TK will be a really good DT tandem...J-Rich will also help a lot against the run!!

and if Hartwell can stay healthy and be a force against the run like in his prime, then he is the trick

#13

Posted by FuggenChris, May 6, 2008 4:20 AM

"With McFadden being the Big play, TD-scoring monster and Fargas & Bush alternating carries bringing in a blend of power & speed, opposing defenses will be stunned just as they were with Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson in Minnesota (except the one in the Big Oak has the potential to be even more lethal!)."

There's no way that you can say that McFadden will be better than Peterson. Peterson is a true stud, doesn't go down on initial contact, and can actually make cuts. McFadden is a straight line runner with no lower body. He's just speed. Do I hope he runs for 3000 yards? Yes, but I don't think it will happen.

#14

Posted by matt, May 6, 2008 5:22 AM

my fellow family members of the raider nation,

i just want to say darren mcfadden is absolutely the right pick. all you have to do is look what he did against dorsey and LSU (trust me i had big money on LSU.). I've been a huge college football fan for 20 years now, and honestly the only player i could remember beeing this dominent has been reggie bush. but as i am starting to see is the bush was surround by much more supperior talent than mcfadden was at arkansas. the man is unstoppable, and in time we will be saying it was absolutely the right choice.

Raiders till i die!

Matt

#15

Posted by Joe, May 6, 2008 5:22 AM

He doesn't need to run for 3000 yards and he doesn't need to be compaired to AP.

I've seen him break many tackles and make many good cuts. These are just excuses people use to put him down because they didn't like the pick.

Even if he did drop on contact and run in a straight line it really doesn't matter. He can run in the 4.2 range. He flat out runs the defense. That's all that matters. We finally have an elite running back. Bring on the Broncos.

#16

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#17

Posted by Raider Blues, May 6, 2008 5:54 AM

Matt - Bush clearly had superior talent around him at SC vs. DMC in Arkansas but DMC will have far superior talent in Oakland's offense vs that NO offense it kind of has a ring to it New Orleans (NO Offense). NO expects Bush to do everything. DMC will only be expected to play a role in Oakland's offense since we have a TE, good receivers and RB's for a developing/talented QB. DMC will have it far easier in Oakland than Bush in NO.

To those who keep saying we continue to do the same thing I ask: When have we ever drafted a franchise QB in the top 5 of a draft? How many times have we drafted a top notch RB? Allen, Bo and ??? Don't say Kaufman even though I liked him. We're certainly not doing anything we've done before. We actually appear to be smart in the draft. I don't think we ever have prior to last year but we could win so we didn't care.

Walker clear it / Miller hang in the middle of the field / Curry hit the seam / Bush with the fake and DMC in the flat. I wouldn't run another play! Get up a bit and pound Bush pound Fargas and even start the game pounding Bush then Fargas then go to the scenario above. Fresh legs out of the backfield with threats all over the field and a QB who can deliver it. Sell out for the run and the strongest arm in the NFL is delivering up top. Hang back and 4.2 speed in the flat just picked up 13 and looking for more. Hand to Bush and the clock is ticking. Move the chains!

Now tell me who needs to improve their defensive line? Who? Yes every team we play!

Gentlemen we are going to score points and score points often!

Just Win Baby!

#18

Posted by Raider Blues, May 6, 2008 5:58 AM

Fuggenchris-

How long til Peterson gets hurt again? What are you going to do when he does? You didn't make the playoffs when he had the season of his life and actually for once didn't get hurt. DMC doesn't have the weight of the offense on him, Peterson does.

Just Win Baby!

#19

Posted by Raider Blues, May 6, 2008 6:14 AM

Pass Block? Sure I'd like to have a better one just like I'd like to have a better D Line but if you've ever played D Line:

We have a screen machine in the making now that we've added DMC. Split backs and who's getting the screen. Over pursue and get burned - now what ya gonna do? Bring that stud D Line and the Mammoth of a QB can see over the line and dumps the ball right in the middle to Mr. Miller while the LB's are sweating the bullet RB/Receiver out of the slot.

Kiffin had better have the largest smile in all of Raider Land with the addition of DMC. Notice I say addition and not replacement. We keep our backs on the field and add DMC to mix it up. DMC can throw the ball too. Not really a staple in the NFL but you have to consider it as a D Coordinator.

I hear people catching on to the fact we were in most games and now we have DMC. I'd say it's more than that. We couldn't stretch the field last year either. We have DMC and we can stretch the field now. You don't get to fill the box and dare us anymore to throw over your head cause we can now.

Feel free to run the ball against us and see if we're as bad you may think but remember the object is to score the most points. Now I'm not saying we can win playoff games like this but that's why we need to continue to improve in this area but I strongly believe we're taking a large step forward this year.

The addition of line play over the next two years are positions who can adapt quickly. The QB and skilled players we've put in place need time to gel. These next 2 years will do exactly that.

Just Win Baby!

#20

Posted by greg, May 6, 2008 7:03 AM

McFadden will be the starter from the second day of camp. It will take all of one day to realize he has more talent than the others. He is an every down back who will run, catch and block with passion. The guy loves football and loves to win.

#21

Posted by Rob Calonge, May 6, 2008 7:09 AM

Good job Raider Till Death!

McFadden will definitely be a bonus to the offense. I still see the Raiders with two big question marks...well one big and one little actually. The receivers need to be better, and I'm not just talking about routes. Curry needs to catch the ball and Carter has also had issues with that in the past. Miller and Madsen will definitely help, but if Walker is our only wideout threat, it will bring the defense up on the run. The big question mark is the defensive line which we've talked about ad-nauseum. Now if Kiffin could tie up Ryan when the Raiders have the lead, maybe they won't go into a zone/prevent defense when they're in the lead.

#22

Posted by autumn_wind, May 6, 2008 7:51 AM

It took you until after the draft to figure out that McFadden was the best pick. Any monkey could see that Al was going to take McFadden because of all the loot that was already tied up in the D line. Did you actually think they were going to bench one of those high payed DTs with a guaranteed contract so they could draft Dorsey. The writing has been on the wall since the raiders gave Kelly that monster deal. Also the raiders offence only scored 8 rushing touch downs and 3 of them came from Culpepper, 5 rushing touchdowns by the running backs is just terrible. You bet you ass McFadden was the right pick.

#23

Posted by 702Nation, May 6, 2008 7:52 AM

Alot of people are concerned about our defense, and to be honest I am too but think about this for a minute, werent we a top 10 defense in 06? I think we were, I do believe it was a little inflated because our offense was so horrible but they were better against the run in 06 and this was with Stu at safety who is a major liability against the pass and run, hopefully Hartwell can come in and produce, if he's fully recovered I think he will, I wonder who will play the strong side now?

#24

Posted by Sr Raider, May 6, 2008 8:24 AM

The D in 2006 was vastly overrated because the offense was one of the worst in history and teams just ran out the clock in the 2nd half. With the line we currently have, being in the top 10 this year is going to be a challenge.

Having said that, I'm another partial convert because I can definitely see the beginnings of a dynasty offense forming. I say partial because I wanted a DE before the draft, but always saw the potential with McFadden. Now that he's here I have a feeling that he's going to do very big things.

#25

Posted by rejake, May 6, 2008 8:31 AM

is there even one other person out there that has considered the 3/4 defense? every person on here is talking like we are stuck in the 4/3. if you consider the moves (signing TK & tons of LB's) we've made you have to see the 3/4 that is being put together. we're gonna stop the run with our ILB's and sack the QB with OLB's. our DE's are going to contain & pressure while our DT's fill holes. the ILB's are gonna stuff the run and we're gonna win a lot of games. also consider that with our piss poor D last year we still won four and had another handful won with a fraction of the offense we've added. we are on the way to the palyoffs and our new O weapons are all very young. we've got years of winning to look forward to. not to mention Rankin that is replacing Jordan as #4 & Branch that's replaced Carr. WOW!

#26

Posted by Another Derek, May 6, 2008 8:33 AM

I think people are missing the fact that McFadden's style of running really fits with the zone blocking scheme the Raiders run. Imagine, if you will, Harris and Gallery pushing their men to the left. Russell hands DMC the ball. A crease opens. McFadden makes one cut and turns upfield. He's through the hole so fast he makes the linebacker miss. He's into the secondary now and turns on the afterburners. One man to beat, but McFadden has another gear - he's GONE!!!! Touchdownnnnnn RRRRaiders!!!!

#27

Posted by Hammer of Justice, May 6, 2008 8:37 AM

We have a raw quarterback, an offensive line in flux, a new wide receiver core, and we are talking about putting the equivalent of the 2007 Patriots offense out on the field? Call me a skeptic. While I'd love to see it, there are too many new parts and pieces that have to come together and things to go right. I do believe we'll be superior to last year and much more dynamic due to the speed upgrades but we are definitely not top 10 offensive material yet. Hopefully that will come with time and the offense gelling as a unit.

This team must prove it can stop the run and keep Russell upright otherwise nothing else will really matter.

#28

Posted by inonewordraider, May 6, 2008 8:47 AM

Bush is a load who is itching to prove he's the real deal. Bush is gonna wear lb's down along w/ a change of pace speedy Fargas who by the way loves the contact as well. When defenses are on their heels you put Mcfadden in the backfield. He get's through the hole he's gone, he goes out for a pass which lb can cover him? Then Jamarcus drops back to pass with the huge arm of his and actual deep threats in Walker and Carter as well as safety nets in Miller and Curry. It all starts on Monday night

#29

Posted by SacRaider, May 6, 2008 9:02 AM

rejake - good point. I started to think about this right after the Hartwell signing. The guy's an inside linebacker and we're set at that position in the 4-3, so Ryan may be going to a 3-4. However, when the media asked him about this a little while ago, he all but killed any speculation. He could be posturing though.

I agree with many of the comments here. We were in many close games and should have one some of those like @ Denver, against Indy, Chicago, etc. So we were already competitive. With all the pieces added and stability at QB, I see us being much improved. I'm excited to see our offense!

#30

Posted by SacRaider, May 6, 2008 9:04 AM

LOL - I meant "won", not "one".

#31

Posted by Maverick, May 6, 2008 9:33 AM

McFad will do great (I hope he holds onto the ball) and I think by the end of their careers, Michael Bush will turn out to be better than Peterson. I see a McFad/Bush back field and a Fargas/Griffin for the tough yards. McFad had just two less throwing TD's in his short college career than the Raiders had rushing TD's last season so how about Bush/Fargas in the back field with a direct snap to McFad.......come on! Just once? All this said and done, Russell will throw for 2500 yards. So with just a little tackling practice on the D-line/LB positions we are back in the play off hunt. Yes, I said it. Play offs.

#32

Posted by Jeff Little, May 6, 2008 10:34 AM

I agree with you Umer and felt the same way. I felt that the need was for a DT in the 1st round and if not in the 1st then especially the 4th. I do see the reason why Dmac was drafted and the potential to have a lethal combination running the ball and taking pressure off of JaMarcus Russell. Our DT rotation of Tommy Kelly, Gerard Warren, Terdell Sands and William Joseph will have to get the job done. Ed Hartwell if healthy will be a plus at SLB.

#33

Posted by Raaaaaayderrrrrrs, May 6, 2008 11:02 AM

no lower body for mcfadden? u watched his game in college? you havent see him try to run over people as a RB or a returner? you kidding me right? am im watching the wrong mcfadden or wut?

this guy is faster and stronger than AP. you got one thing right though, he cant be compare to AP yet cuz he hasn't stepped on the field yet but DMC by far more talented than AP. Can AP play as db or returner or even qb? cuz DMC did it in college and u can best believe hes gonna be doing some of that in kiffin's offense.

talk all you want u haters i just cant wait to see all your responses when DMC blows the fk up in nfl. then we'll see who has the last laugh.

#34

Posted by Raaaaaayderrrrrrs, May 6, 2008 11:06 AM

either way al davis is fked. picks dorsey and he sucks and DMC does good then its oh can't believe raider passed on DMC. goes both ways and if you ask me, u can always find antoher dorsey but its damn hard to find another DMC and his versatility as a DB,RETURNER,QB,RB.

#35

Posted by Robert Gallery's Mullet, May 6, 2008 11:08 AM

Good read gentlemen. I'm glad there is no negativity on here like some Raider blogs. Kudos Raider Blues.

#36

Posted by OGKUSH, May 6, 2008 11:12 AM

i agree with everyone that says we wwill have a potent offense this season ... i can picture mcfadden at wideout(or slot receiver) and bush and fargas lined up at RB and FB ... or even griffith for that matter to confuse the defenses even more! RUN OR SCREEN PASS TO DMC OR A POSSESSION PASS ARG?!

maverick... run DMC fumbled so many times because he carried the ball 785 times in 3 yrs.. nearly 5000 yards rushing, of course he's gonna fumble a lot when you carry the ball that much.

#37

Posted by pojonz, May 6, 2008 11:17 AM

i was praying for mcfadden knowing it would help jamarcus & the defense.if hartwell returns to form morrison will move to outside lb, which wont be a problem for him.i see us winning ten games & making the playoffs

#38

Posted by LDizzle, May 6, 2008 11:26 AM

Raider Till Death: Way to turn lemons into lemonade. Or rather talking yourself off the ledge.

Raider Blues I am going to go ahead and say Kaufman because he falls into the category of elite whether you want it to be said or not. Plus he was drafted in the 1st round. And Bo was drafted in the 5th round just so you know

#39

Posted by Raider Blues, May 6, 2008 1:01 PM

Evil If it's at all possible you haven't read any posts or listened to interviews with Coach Kiffin I'll cut you some slack. DMC isn't replacing anyone, rather being added to the offense with more 2 backs sets and from the slot. Your approach appears linear and we're working parallel here crack guy.

Just Win Baby!

#40

Posted by LDizzle, May 6, 2008 1:05 PM

Raider Blues you stray from the point when you say that Kaufman doesn't count and Bo does. Because the point was "how many times have we drafted a top notch RB" Allen and Kaufman is the answer because drafting top notch means drafting in the 1st round for which Bo was not. And if you will notice I corrected that Bo was drafted in the 7th round and if you are such a huge knowledgable fan from way back you would have picked up on that instead of repeating it as if it were true. I understood and agreed with what you were saying about it not being a usual thing that Al would take a runningback in the first round and was just pointing out a couple of facts. What the hell does "back to the valley" mean? That doesn't make any sense to me. Don't get so pissy Raider Blues. It doesn't look good on you.

Oh and by the way Kaufman was a starter nearly his entire career and Bo was a backup nearly his entire career so I think Kaufman can safely be put on Bo's level. I like Bo as much as the next Raider fan but the facts still remain that he was never a feature back and with his short career all we can do is dream of what he MAY have become.

Kaufman sits 4th in rushing all time for the Raiders and at 4.9 ypc has the highest ypc of any Raider in history over 3000 yards.

Also Mark Van Eeghen was drafted in the 3rd round and is 2nd all time. Where does he fit on that list Blues?

McFadden compares closely to Bo Jackson because Bo holds 3 of the top 4 longest plays from scrimmage and that is what we expect to see from McFadden. Also Bo was not the featured back, Marcus Allen was which is also going to be the case with McFadden.

#41

Posted by Raider Blues, May 6, 2008 1:39 PM

Symantics there diz

I knew he wasn't a first round pick and the point was he was the best RB we've ever had. You can quote stats all day and I'll remind you stats don't lie but liars use stats.

Bo and Marcus were our best backs ever and VE and Nap were not nor were they even in the same class. I seriously doubt anyone in Raider Land would debate that.

Back to the valley means you just crashed your surfboard into me like a chump and you don't belong out here.

#42

Posted by Robert Gallery's Mullet, May 6, 2008 1:49 PM

We are not a complete team until next year when we can evaluate both lines after a full season and make FA moves/draft/scheme adjustments.

Until then, enjoy the season and the experiment that is the Oakland Raiders.

#43

Posted by azraider37, May 6, 2008 2:18 PM

Great article! This is what i've been screaming since 3 months before the draft. Either take C.Long or McFadden. I believe Dmac is the best pick for us for the same reasons Raider till death does. Now all we have to do is 1) Hopefully get something for Jordan, if not dump him. 2)Get a run stopper. Even if we think Sands can get the job done we need depth. If he gets hurt what do we have left, a bunch of question marks. I was excited when the Grady Jackson to the Raiders talk was on about a month ago, but I guess it fell through. 3) We need another QB. I'm sure we'll get one before camp. Maybe Culpepper. The Packers were talking to him, but then started drafting and snagging QBs. I don't see him going there.

#44

Posted by silversurfer, May 6, 2008 2:51 PM

Dear God, don't let it be Culppper!!

#45

Posted by LDizzle, May 6, 2008 3:44 PM

Blues "Stats don't lie but liars use stats" is catchy but is simply retarded. "Back to the valley" I now recognize as a movie quote which is an equally lame thing to say. I don't know what is more pathetic; that you actually used those lame lines or that you think they are witty. Keep your ridiculous catch phrases and lame movie quotes and save them for someone more gullable. Such as yourself.

#46

Posted by Riverside Raiders Fan, May 6, 2008 5:23 PM

Great article, nicely done. Ya, when you put all the elements together, Cable's second year as offensive line coach running his zone blocking scheme, two new offensive line men who should be upgrades, especially Wade @ center and you have the foundation. TE Zack Miller will only improve at TE. Then, we have a Michael Bush who could be real big for us, if he even runs close to what he did at LSU. Finally, a unique runner who is a potential game breaker on every down he touches the pigskin...then Wow. Hey, then we have another ACE in the hole: "JAMACUS RUSSELL." Who knows what his limits are. We do know that he can throw the ball 85 freaking yard if necessary. Finally, our joker, is all the upgrades to our defense. If Kiffen can put everything on track, which we're all confident he can do...then we're looking at a minimum 10-6 and a possible 13-3 or somewhere in between.

Like Andy told Red in the Shawshank Redemption: "Hope is a good thing, Red." Ya, we in the Raider Nation have a lot of hope, but this year our hope is going to reach reality...the real deal...the real thing...in WINS & many TD's. And, like your article says...Darren MaFadden was the right pick and he'll be the holder of many of those TD's we're talking about. Go Raiders.

#47

Posted by WraithRaider, May 6, 2008 7:12 PM

McFadden is in the same tier as the Raiders' two legendary RBs.....Marcus Allen and Bo Jackson. He was the only pick to make for this team, even if we had the #1 pick.

I am hoping that we will eventually switch Bush to FB and have a McFadden/Bush tandem. With those two guys in the backfield at all times our offense will be tremendously versatile. Bush can run, catch, block and throw from the HB, FB or even TE position. McFadden can also run, catch, block and throw and he can split out wide as well. Think of the possibilities with the trick plays and audibles......

3rd and 2 on the opposing 20.....

Jamarcus audibles at the line.....

McFadden goes into motion to the left slot.....

Bush takes the hand off on a sweep to the right.....

Zach Miller releases off the line and forces the OLB to cover.....

Walker runs a fly pattern to the end zone occupying the safety.....

McFadden runs a Jerry Rice style crossing pattern left to right to 12 yards in front of Bush.....

Bush either gains 8-12 easy yards yards from the gaping hole left by the OLB, or he tosses to McFadden for a 20 yard catch and run for aTD!!!

Man....honestly........a Russell, McFadden, Bush backfield has so much potential it is truly scary...

I am looking forward to being a Raiders fan these days, and can't wait for the season to start.

#48

Posted by 702Nation, May 6, 2008 7:48 PM

I dont know about the rest of the Nation but I think that all this debate about us needing a DT for us to be solid against the run I disagree we have enough on defense to be competitive to me our biggest problem is Rob Ryan this guy is an assistant not a coordinator, he consistently fails to hold a lead in the 4th quarter, everybody screaming get a DT and were straight well this guy blew a lead at the Senior Bowl with Trevor Laws and Sedrick Ellis, and Sedrick in my opinion is better than Dorsey check the stats, its official this guy definitely has to go.

#49

Posted by Billy Cannon's cuz, May 6, 2008 8:03 PM

McFadden has speed. But what sets him apart is his vision. This is what makes him so leathal. And what makes him so desirable in this offense is how well he handles sreen passes and can catch in general... He is no AP. neither is AP him.

#50

Posted by Riverside Raiders Fan, May 6, 2008 8:03 PM

Hammer of Justice:

I beg to differ with you but we'll easily be in the top ten offensively. No doubt about it. Fitting the new peices together isn't going to be a big thing.

First off, we're not talking about high school kids trying to fit into a college level team. Most of the NFL players, today, have been playing long before high school. But if they only started in high school, that's still 3 years, plus 4 years in college and that's just for our rookies...3 or 4 players at best. We have a lot of experience on our team. Additionally, we have the making of some great, unique players, both offensively and defensively, and we're going to be running over teams. And, that's just with an above average, JR, DM, MB, JF, ZM, DW, DC, etc, etc. No, don't sweat it, it's guaranteed...per Al Davis himself.

I please, I beg you, don't let JR be another John Elway, don't let DM be another Marcus Allen with more speed and don't let MB be about Marion Mottley (cleveland browns fullback, way before most of you guys were born) because if those things happen, then we're looking at 13-3 or better.

#51

Posted by Billy Cannon's cuz, May 6, 2008 8:07 PM

If kiff can't make his offense work with this pick and his hand picked offensive line then it just won't work in the NFL. Of course he has staked his career on the contrary.. a good pick for this team

#52

Posted by LDizzle, May 6, 2008 9:32 PM

Riverside Raider: Michael Bush didn't go to LSU he went to Louisville. Yet again 13-3 is some serious homerism. 10-6 is being optimistic. And of course you disagree with Hammer of Justice. He is being realistic and you are being an ignorant homer. OF COURSE there is doubt when talking about this team being a top ten offense. All of the parts we are putting out there are indeed unproven as a unit. A QB and RB in their first full seasons, another rookie RB, two new WR, one of which is coming off a serious injury, and an uncertain situation at the Tackle positions. I think this team has indeed proven it will be near the top in rushing but overall offense is still a wildcard and is in NO WAY a certainty of being great just yet.

Wraith Raider: Bush at FB BWAAAAAHAHAHAHA! That is absolute ridiculousness. I don't even know where to go with that nonsense. Bush is a half back through and through and would be completely wasted at FB. Wow what a stupid thing to say. LMAO. Sigh.

#53

Posted by GuamanianRaider, May 6, 2008 11:00 PM

This year we're stocking the skill positions; in the next we'll hit hard the lines. I cannot help but think we'll have more to say about the lines after June first.

Raider on,

Guamanian Raider

#54

Posted by Raider Till Death!, May 6, 2008 11:09 PM

Thank You for all your comments, I appreciate it. I have to agree with L Dizzle. As much as I love to say our offense will be an absolute force, I cant go with that statement. Like L Dizzle said above, we have a rookie RB and QB who are going to play their first full seasons, shakey WRs and our o-line still needs to prove itself in pass protection. I would love for the team to finish 8-8 but as of right now, the idea of a season with 10 or more wins is without much backbone support. One thing thats for sure is that we definately have the players, depth and firepower to make a well-oiled offensive machine but that is provided they all live upto their expectations. Neither me, you or Al Davis himself can determine whether a player will be a bust, under-achiever, one hit away from a career ending injury or an absolute steal and potential hall of famer. All we can do is hope for the best in training camp and wait for next season. Thanks once again for all your comments. Im sorry I couldnt respond to all of them as it turned out that I had a pretty busy day!

#55

Posted by Lester Hayes, May 6, 2008 11:36 PM

The raiders are building a team from the outsides in which is a little against the grain. But we have what should be a tough secondary that allows us to pack the line of scrimmage on D to stop the run. One DT was not going to cure our ills. We'll see. The zone blocking lessens the need for s great o-line and we proved that, so I am really tired of reading on the net that we need o-lineman.

At least, for once, we are not in the middle of a coaching change.

What about Kelly - Sapp is high on (was also high on Terdell Sands) and so is Kiffin. What did they see in practice to warrant that pay.

#56

Posted by radr4life, May 7, 2008 1:39 AM

Think of this all you raider 4 life superfans we have all been debating if McFadden was the correct choice for Al and the gang and I say hell yes if only for this reason. How sweet would it be to have McFadden do to the Bolts as LT has done to the Raiders the pass several years running, throwing, and catching touchdowns?

#57

Posted by Raider Blues, May 7, 2008 2:29 AM

Diz What are you like 12? You're like Captain Obvious only not fit to be Captain of anything.

Back to the valley was a nice way of saying what the rest of us are thinking about your overly critical comments on things when you obviously miss the point. You are the guy us Raider Fans wish rooted for another team only you probably can't see it.

Nobody sees Bush as a FB! He likely thought of it that way since that's likely and offense he's familiar with. Let's say for a moment you know every stat and you're right about everything since I'm sure you think you are because your parents tell you so. Look specifically at the tone of your comments and contrast them with the tone of mine. Take the tone and read the comments afterward and see if people react or not and how. Hell, even one guy saw it clearly and pointed it out but you likely missed it because you were likely looking up a stat to parrot it and dismissing any real thought or concept if you know what one is.

Back to the valley really does fit you the more you speak. Join the Chiefs bandwagon or be a Patriot Fan just leave us!

Just Win Baby!

#58

Posted by WraithRaider, May 7, 2008 6:49 AM

LDizzle.........

How old are you and how much football have you watched?

There is more than one type of FB. Just because the modern game typically employs that position as a 3rd guard on the field doesn't mean it has to be that way. History has many examples of all-around fullbacks who were much more than a 6th lineman.

Michael Bush has every tool to be an all-pro NFL FB. What would be a "waste" is if he got stuck on the bench behind McFadden and didn't get on the field at all. Who would you rather have on the field? McFadden and Griffith? Or McFadden and Bush?

William Andrews, Mike Alstott, Tony Galbreath, Mark Van Eeghen, John Riggins, Larry Czonka, Christian Okoye, William Floyd....all examples of FBs who did more than lead block for their backfield partner.

Lest we forget Jim Brown and our own Marcus Allen, who played FB in college and again in the NFL when Bo Jackson was with the Raiders.

Why don't you give me your address, and I'll come over and show you some video of some great all purpose fullbacks......

We'll watch it right after I kick your ass for being such a rude little prick.

#59

Posted by RaiderKC, May 7, 2008 3:21 PM

I love the pick and was praying C.Long/Dorsey were gone so it would not be as much of an issue.

As for top 10 offense, I hope so but not to put so much pressure on the QB who wouldn't sign in time, a make shift OL and some throw back WR's who hopefully can resurrect their skills in '08.

Also, the stable of RB's were running on a last place schedule and could still only muster 6th place. Where did the '07 offense finish in TD's scored? Dorsey is injury prone in his college career, McFadden not. Nothing off field effected his play on field, just people grasping for anything negative.

With hopefully an improved line, a down AFC West and Griffin/O'Neal paving the way for McFadden to have a nice rookie season maybe Kiffin can turn it around and Oak will make it to the playoffs.

#60

Posted by Mr. Raider, May 7, 2008 7:35 PM

When Cliff Branch was drafted, he ran the 100 in 10.0 seconds...Al is addicted to speed! Add power, agility, and attitude and you get the #4 overall 2008 pick!

I can not wait!

#61

Posted by Mr. Raider, May 7, 2008 7:53 PM

Did you know that Al played football, basketball and baseball in college?

#62

Posted by LDizzle, May 7, 2008 11:04 PM

tsk tsk tsk WraithRaider. You should not throw out empty threats at people you have never met. And to think you asked me how old I was. Sounds like you are the one that has a bit of growing up to do. Stop talking "historically" because it has no place in this. This is not history this is the present and Bush is a damn good halfback. Better than McFadden IMO. O'Neal and Griffith are our FB. Bush will not ride the bench. He will be given the chance to prove his worth and I think he will do just that. Bush would get worn down if he had to block for another back half the time and then tote the rock the other half of the time. He Fargas and McFadden will give this team three great backs that will give the running game fresh legs in the 4th quarter when the defense is sucking air. Sorry if you can't handle my brash attitude but don't bring koolaid to a grown man's party. You can't handle my criticism? Really? Come on man grow a pair. You too Raider Blues. I hold no animosity toward you but if I think you said something ridiculous I pull no punches. Also don't pretend you speak for all Raider fans. It is YOU that can't handle what I am dishing out. Not the Nation as a whole. If you knew me personally you would understand me better. Bigones my friend.

#63

Posted by Jacob King Jr, May 8, 2008 8:04 AM

In the past the NFL has produced many teams that have a Explosive offense, the flip side of that is those same teams usually fielded a BELOW average defense. COLTs and Bengals 2 of the best offensive teams in the NFL over the last 5 yrs. and just 1 superbowl appearance between the two!!

The RAIDERs will only go as far as the Defense will carry them....and after 5 yrs of failing to stop the run we bring in a player who did not play football last year and do not draft anyone...go figure????

#64

Posted by J Martin, May 10, 2008 11:01 PM

everybody in here is a self proclaimed expert on everything raiders, i dont claim to be one, but i look at facts. everybody is saying the same thing, 'the raiders should have taken dorsey to help the run defense, we already have enough good running backs.' i agree about the good running backs but none of them have the potential of being hall of fame running backs. also lets look at mcfadden vs dorsey when mcfadden was the started, in 2006 he ran for 182 yrds and 2 touchdowns for an 8.2 avg, in 2007 just to make sure the last game wasnt a fluke he ran for 206 yrds and 3 touchdowns for an 6.4 avg in an upset over lsu, so you tell me who the best player is

#65

Posted by WraithRaider, May 11, 2008 7:00 AM

LDizzle, you ignorant little prick..................

"Wraith Raider: Bush at FB BWAAAAAHAHAHAHA! That is absolute ridiculousness. I don��t even know where to go with that nonsense. Bush is a half back through and through and would be completely wasted at FB. Wow what a stupid thing to say. LMAO. Sigh."

Really?...........

Here are just a few quotes from some articles today. Next time know what the hell you're talking about before spouting off.

Moron!!!

___________________________________________

"*There was a lot of Bush/McFadden together on the field today �� either in the backfield together or with McFadden at receiver."

"McFadden lined up at receiver and running back when playing with Michael Bush."

"we'll keep using (Bush) in different ways as camp goes on."

___________________________________________

Q: Do you think there will be scenarios where you and Darren or Justin can line up together in the backfield?

Michael Bush: Oh yeah. That��s another good thing about bringing McFadden in, is that we don��t just have to always have that fullback, I-formation in. All of us can catch the ball and run through the middle. It will be an exciting offense this year.