SevenCyberseas - Blogs http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php Help humankind through a better understanding of the Greatness of the Raiders en Fri, 30 Jul 2010 18:25:28 GMT vBulletin 120 http://www.fansinblack.com/x/images/vb4style-vb4/misc/rss.jpg SevenCyberseas - Blogs http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php Jared Veldheer, Bruce Campbell and the Offensive Line http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=16 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 18:07:27 GMT With all due respect to McClain, Houston and our other 1st year players... I am very curious about... With all due respect to McClain, Houston and our other 1st year players... I am very curious about our two drafted rookie linemen.

I don't know what goes on in the minds of coaches, but with the likes of Sateele and Morris as our centers.... we have a lack of talent. Perhaps coaches Cable, Jackson and Michalczik share that opinion as they have rookie Veldheer quickly coming up to speed at center.

I think most Raider fans agree that center - the important line-calling and play anchoring spot - is a negative right now. Maybe Veldheer isnt the prototype center build (6'8" and 315 pounds of muscle), but if we're in the process of converting him to center, that should indicate that the coaches believe he has more upside than Satele and Morris.

Jared,the Division II All-American has a history of stepping up. From his seven inches of height added during high school, to being overlooked by college recruiters, to being a standout at Hillsdale College to playing in the Division All Star game in 2009 to imprssing all scouts at the NFL combine. It has been a series of challenges overcome.

Perhaps it comes down to the question of whether a 6'8" 315 strong, lean and fast lineman can match up against the shorter 350 pound monsters that attack the gaps. In the modified(Hue Jackson's power blocking added) ZBS it may work. The coaches must realize that as they have Veldheer queued up. Besides, anyone want to assure me that we're good to go with Satele?

On a related note, in regards to the numerous comments that our OLine is weak... I'd like to offer up a qualification to that. Our OLine is not weak on the left side. Thats my opinion anyway. Mario Henderson and Robert Gallery make our left side solid in pass protection and at least adequate in run blocking. But that is only true if Gallery is there. When Gallery went down last year, Henderson seemed to break down frequently. These two make a good left side.

For those who expect perfection from Mario... remember... we haven't had a solid left tackle since Barry Sims. My opinion is that Henderson and the left side will be solid if Gallery stays healthy.

Center, as I mentioned is weak. But the right side was horrid last year. No question Langston Walker is an improvement over Green. And if Cooper Carlisle can rebound from a down year, great.

But please tell me Bruce Campbell will get a chance to step in if Carlisle falters. Bruce is the workout stud who should be able to dominate once he acclimates to the NFL. He'll get some snaps at guard and tackle in camp. Hopefully he has the mojo to push Carlisle and crack the lineup. But is he too lean to play guard? Maybe. But look at Gallery. He's become a fine OG.

With Veldheer and BCampbell we have a pair of tall muscular young studs. It is a departure from the norm for these two guys to be getting time at center and guard... the positions normally suited for road grading 350 pound tubs o' goo. Or maybe I have it wrong. Perhaps they'll both toil as backups at tackle, their college positions? With Barnes and pears it seems that we have our backups at tackle. No matter what, summer camp and the exhibition games will be very interesting this year.


Barry Sims(1998-2008), the Raiders' last solid left tackle.
]]> Quartermaster http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=16 Why is Floyd Little going in the HOF? http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=15 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:10:42 GMT ---Quote (Originally by Cerberus)--- The Donks only have a player or two in the HOF, so finding...
Quote Originally Posted by Cerberus View Post
The Donks only have a player or two in the HOF, so finding the best Donks of yore is what they have to do to get some into the Hall.
agreed, but Gradishar (much as i hated his arse) deserves it more than Little. Gradishar was a friggin beast, although i question the stats credited to him. tackles weren't an official stat and the donks claim he AVERAGED 204 tackles/year over his 10 year career - hmmmm....

in the prime of Little's career, he had a 4 year run where he averaged 965 yds/ season and 4 yds/carry (GOOD numbers, especially in the AFL) on consistantly TERRIBLE donko teams. but the rest of his career was 5 seasons with around 2500 yards total.

That is also why I will NEVER visit the HOF, because it is a popularity contest more than anything else.
maybe so, but it wasn't always. and besides, that doesn't diminish the fact that a TON of HISTORY, and a TON of RAIDERS are in that place.

i encourage you to change your mind. the HOF IS a human endeavor, and as such is NOT perfect. but don't let the perfect be the enemy of the great.

and the HOF is a great place (IMO). :D ]]> drumsky http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=15 Saying Goodbye to a Hero http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=14 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 06:34:43 GMT Once the first word hit the media, the news spread quickly amongst the Raider Nation. I know... Once the first word hit the media, the news spread quickly amongst the Raider Nation.

I know fans texted, called, twittered and posted the news that left us all reeling. John David Tatum, known as Jack Tatum , passed away from a heart attack at 61 years of age.

When I read it, I didn't want to believe it. I searched the internet to locate something, anything, that would lead me to draw a Samuel Clemensesque finding that the rumors of his death were an exaggeration.

This is not the turn of the century. No reporter was sent miles to investigate. This is the information age where the news takes minutes, rather than weeks to determine. No amount of denial , no amount of hope for misinformation could hide the truth.

The NFL's one and only "Assassin" is no longer with us. That trying to pin point the origin of the nickname is an impossibility means nothing to us that watched him play.

Where does one start eulogizing a childhood hero that one has met, spoken to, but could not call friend?

Details of his life are everywhere.

He was born November 18, 1948 and died July 27, 2010.

Though he was born in Cherryville, North Carolina, he grew up in Passaic, New Jersey. Though some players had a deep love for the game from a young age, Jack didn't start playing football until his sophomore year at Passaic High School. Like most high school athletes, he played multiple positions: running back, fullback and defensive back.

As far as college goes, Ohio State wanted him as a running back. If one wondered about his speed, yes, he was fast. At 5' 11", 205 lbs (though one web site has him at 5'10" and 200 lbs.), and in full pads, he could cover the 100 yards of a football field in roughly 10 seconds.

At the urging of Lou Holtz , Buckeyes HC Woody Hayes turned the very promising running back into a defensive back that covered the best wide receivers, and saw time at linebacker. His hits leveled the biggest fullbacks and tight ends college ball had to offer. He earned All -Big Ten honors '68 -'70. He was named All American in '69 and '70, unanimously. His name was mentioned in the same breath as the words "Heisman Trophy". The Buckeyes' record with Jack as a defensive starter was 27-2. Tack on a National Championship victory, too.

As recognition for what Jack accomplished as a player, he was inducted into the Ohio State Varsity O Hall of Fame in '81 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005.

Ever hear of the "Jack Tatum Hit of the Week Award?" That was introduced to the Ohio State football program back in 2001 by coach Jim Tressell. Obviously it was awarded to the player with the best defensive hit of a game. Not defensive play. Defensive HIT.

He did more than hit his opponents. He drove through them. They were like those water filled plastic cans one sees as a barrier on highways. A car plows through them, they explode. Jack hit his opposition, they fell, flipped, tumbled and sometimes somersaulted. Hard. Because that's what every collision was like with Jack Tatum. Hard.

On the field, he never half-assed a play. He never went through the motions. Every game counted. Every play counted. He gave everything he had every play. And to the best of his ability. While Jack himself said "I like to believe that my best hits border on felonious assault", his most well known hits were clean and within the rules. During his tenure as a Raider, Oiler and even his post NFL career, he was often vilified for his ability.


He started his NFL career after being drafted number number 19 overall in the 1st round of the 1971 draft by the Raiders. He started in 106 games and played in 120 games as a Raider, and played in another 16 games in his final season as a Houston Oiler. He finished is career with 37 interceptions, for 736 yards with a long of 66 yards. His 104 yard fumble return for a touchdown remains an NFL record, though Aeneas Williams tied it not long ago.

These numbers earned him Pro Bowl honors 3 consecutive years, '73-'75. In '73 he was named Defensive Back of the Year by Football Digest. From '73-'77 he was an ALL-AFC selection. He was second team All Pro in'74 and '77.

He earned everyone of those honors.

Yet some of those in the media used their position to try to re-write history and lies about Jack. Especially when it comes to the hit on New England Patriot Darryl Stingley, may he rest in peace. In what has been one of the most talked about hits in professional sports, anyone that has watched tape of the hit knows it was clean.

One of the biggest problems those involved in the media had with Jack regarding this incident was that he never apologized to Mr. Stingley.

Jack's position remained that he shouldn't apologize for doing his job, and on a clean hit. I remember an interview where he alluded to not being happy that Darryl Stingley was paralyzed, but that isn't the same thing as apologizing for the hit itself. I, like most Raiders fans, understand this. I may do things that adversely affect my clients/customers at work, but it is my job. I have no animosity towards them. If they call me I explain and say what happened and wish them luck. I don't seek them out and say "I'm sorry I did my job well." It was just an unfortunate and unlucky coincidence that the hit, coupled with the fact that Stingley was laying himself out for the poorly thrown ball, that caused the injury. No one has blamed the quarterback for the ball being where it was. That was why Stingley was even hit.

Jack didn't pull punches. His books , "They Call Me assassin", "They Still Call Me Assassin" and "Final Confessions of NFL Assassin Jack Tatum" were best sellers. He calls out the NFL for its deficiencies of the times as he saw them.

But I remember him for his hits. I remember watching him play knowing that there were very few battles that Jack couldn't win. Didn't help us against the Steelers when the ball bounced off Frenchie Fuqua in the game called "The Immaculate Reception". (Should be the Immaculate Deception.) I was a teenager when I watched my beloved Raiders finally get into the big dance to square off against the Minnesota Vikings. The irony that the Raiders were in the Super Bowl and soundly beat the franchise that they should have been was lost on me at the time. But not now. I loved watching that hit on Sammy White. I have an autographed photo of it.

(John Vella, former offensive lineman for the Raiders, had a Jack Tatum Day in August of 2003 to try to help raise money after Jack lost part of his foot as the result of a staph infection, a complication from diabetes. He later lost his leg and wore a prosthetic leg. It was because of this Jack tried to draw attention to the disease. The Jack Tatum Fund for Youthful Diabetes is based in Ohio for those interested.)

Jack had a great hit on Bronco player Rob Lytle that caused a game winning fumble for the Raiders. Except for some reason the officials awarded Denver the ball. (Think play offs 77-78)

When Lynn Swann was asked once what he thought of when he through of Raiders, his answer was "Pain". We know why.

I can list everything else, but they are just words.

When one thinks of great Raiders centers, Jim Otto and Dave Dalby come to mind. When one thinks great safeties, Jack comes to mind. Not just for the Raiders, but for ANY NFL team. Players from other teams have claimed to have tried to style themselves after Jack. That's an impression.

Amazingly, as big as he played and as hard as he was on the field, he was just a regular guy, straight forward , honest, with a surprisingly quiet voice and a gentle but firm handshake for fans.

He will remain a grid iron hero, a great player, a good man and always a Raider.

My friend Ed used this Eldridge ****ey quote: "Respect commands itself and it can neither be given nor withheld when it is due."

It is fitting when talking about Jack. He was a fierce and feared competitor, but I can't think of anyone that didn't have respect for what he accomplished.

Rest in peace, Jack. The Raider Nation will never forget you, and honor your memory.

As ever,

Win lose or tie, RAIDERS til I DIE!

BlitzChick ]]> BlitzChick http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=14 Will Seymour sign a longterm deal by the 15th? http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=13 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 21:49:35 GMT
Quote Originally Posted by daraidz View Post
what is the deadline for? Can't he re-sign at any time during the season? My guess is that he'll miss a few weeks of training camp as is accepted for many big name, veteran players. IMO, it's better for all involved as he doesn't have to prove anything and it save his aging body from the pounding, plus it gives the opportunity for the other guys to see what they have. He'll be fine in Sept. even missing July. I hope he re-signs for something reasonable for about 2-3 years.
I actualy think he's still smarting from being traded by The Pats where he was woefully underpaid. He came here and now he is getting 13 milion for one year and since this is his last chance to make some big money he will go where ever the money is.:rockguitar: ]]> qdrone http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=13 So Many Men, So Litlle Time... Part 2 http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=12 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 07:58:37 GMT Now the good stuff... Raiders players. Josh Taves was there. He was with us for a couple of... Now the good stuff... Raiders players.

Josh Taves was there. He was with us for a couple of years , a tall lanky walk-on that found his way to the roster. He was part of the team that handed the Dolphins their first play off shut out , and the Raiders first play off shut-out , 27-0, back in 2001. At 6'7", he was almost too tall to play DE, and personally, I think that was his downfall. It was easier for the shorter offensive linemen to get under his pads. I liked him, though. I was sad to see him go. He is currently coaching high school football at Valley Christian High School in Dublin Ca., which also boasts a staff that includes John Parella and Rod Woodson. I also heard that former defensive coordinator Willie Shaw is involved with that team.

Former tight end Jeremy Brigham was also in attendance. He was wearing a shirt from a Boy Scout golf tournament, an event he regularly attends. He has also hosted several golf tournaments of his own, through his Make A Difference Foundation. I neglected to mention to him that I think he could have been a premier tight end in the league if he could have blocked better. (I mentioned that to him once before when he was a player. His response was a less than favorable "Thanks, coach." )

As I mentioned, Ray Chester was there, sitting next to Gary Plummer. I figure he must have drawn the short stick to have to sit there. He was laughing through my exchange with Plummer and thanked me for handling his light weight work.

Next in line was a man known for his speed, Willie Gault. Looks like he could give some of today's players a run for their money, still.

Jeff Barnes was there, too. I think next to football, his favorite subject is food.

Coach Willie Brown was close by. The last few times, okay, almost every time I see Coach Brown, I have my camera in my hands. Today was no exception. In a stern voice he said "No PICTURES!", which caused the volunteers behind him to look a bit concerned. They weren't sure what to do. We then exchanged pleasantries as he introduced me to Charlie Smith and they both posed for a photo.

While Charlie Smith played for us for several years, I remember him best as catching a pass from Daryle Lamonica his rookie season in the now infamous Heidi Game. Being this was a marquee match up, why the network went to the movie Heidi remains a mystery. His reception and run covered 43 yards and gave the Raiders the lead. I mentioned having his "Run to Daylight" photo from that game and how I cried when they changed over to the movie.

Jack Tatum was there, making an appearance. He had to leave for health reasons, so it was good of him to show up.

The one and only Mr. Raider was there, smiling and signing and talking to all the fans . Knowing there was a long line behind me, I didn't want to bother Mr. Otto too much.

Sitting next to Jim Otto was the one and only Rod Martin. With all due respect to Jim Plunkett, I am firmly of the belief that Rod Martin should have been named MVP of SB XV, and told him so. His 3 interceptions was an SB record. Being the gracious man he is, he suggested co-MVPs. And he kissed my hand. I was beaming after that.

On Rod's other side was the one and only Big Ben Davidson. Still tough for me to think this guy didn't play a down of football until his college years. He is handsome as ever, and made an astute observation re: JaMarcus Russell. Based on salaries, in 22 minutes of one game, Russell made as much as Ben in his entire career. I don't think that requires any further comment.

On a personal note, Ben has been married to the same woman for roughly 49 years. One thing he had to today? Call a namesake and wish him Happy Birthday.

Former coach and wide receiver James Lofton was there, and he seemed a little distracted, having many footballs go by in front of him.

Apollo Creed, um, rather Carl Weathers was there too. I told him I enjoyed his movies, but I will remember him for stating that Al Davis changed his life. Carl said emphatically, "He DID!"

At the end of the table was our host, Fred Biletnikoff. Fred actually recognized us and thanked us for showing up and getting the autographs. He said he hoped we were able to pick up some we didn't previously own. I thought that was very sweet him.

Many of the attendees were staying at the same hotel as those of us getting autographs.

One of the players I didn't mention before was Tom Keating.

I wanted to bring him up last, because I told him I did some writing and asked if he wouldn't mind a little interview. He was very generous with his time. He is currently a semi-retired private investigator. He did work for attorneys, questioning witnesses and opposing parties. One of his favorite times? The woman he needed to interview was represented by counsel. She said she wouldn't answer questions without her attorney. So he met her at her attorney's office. Her attorney was a football fan. After giving her all the softball questions, her attorney left her, telling Tom to ask her anything. Then he starts all the hardball questions. And gets answers. He shook his head as he said he almost felt sorry for her.

Tom also lives in France a few months a year. This year he had to return to the states because of the volcanic eruption in Iceland. But he'll be going back in September or October.

What was really touching? Big Ben still watching for his team mates. several times Ben approached Tom and me, trying to give Tom a way out of the interview. He even called. The VIP Hostess tried to get him into the Hospitality Suite. Tom still talked to me.

All in all, I had a great time.

More tomorrow after the golf tournament.

As ever,
Win lose or tie, RAIDERS til I DIE!

BlitzChick ]]> BlitzChick http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=12 So Many Men, So Litlle Time... http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=11 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 07:57:40 GMT As many of you know, Hall of Fame wide receiver and former receivers coach for the Raiders, Fred... As many of you know, Hall of Fame wide receiver and former receivers coach for the Raiders, Fred Biletnikoff, lost his daughter Tracey in a tragic manner. She was murdered by a man she once dated, a man whose conviction was recently over-turned. I will remain silent on my opinion about that, however this loss prompted Fred and his wife Angela to form the Biletnikoff Foundation.

They wanted to ensure Tracey's spirit and dreams did not fall by the way side, forgotten by all.

The general purpose of the Biletnikoff Foundation is to help young women recovering from substance abuse and to help educate them regarding the prevention of domestic violence.

I wish something like this existed 25 plus years ago.

As a victim of domestic violence I know what it is like to live in fear. I know what it is like to wonder what will happen next. I know what it is like to feel unworthy of being treated better. No, my family didn't know. I was too ashamed to tell them. He was careful to do things that did not leave too many visible marks. I understand the purpose of the organization. I am more than happy to support it in whatever way I could.

Today, it was purchasing a commemorative football and getting the autographs of various sports figures at the Grid Iron Greats Autograph Show. ( This is a precursor to the golf tournament to be held tomorrow. It is one of only 2 annual fund raisers the Foundation has to raise funds for the cause.)

The balls were available at both the local Raider Image (in Roseville) and at the autograph signing held at Ruth's Chris Steak House, also in Roseville. The cost? A mere $75.00.

The men? An amazing array.

There were boxers starting off the line. I am not much of a boxing fan, but I even heard of Tony "The Tiger" Lopez. He was there.

So was The World's Most Dangerous Man, UFC Champion Ken Shamrock.
He started as an "ultimate fighter" after being invited to Japan for a real fight by promoters that had seen him training in Florida. He never looked back after winning that event.

At 46 years old, he still appears to be in good enough shape to take to any ring he chooses to step into. A father of 7, with 4 grandchildren , traveling seems to be his business now. In the last 9 days, he has gone from Reno to Las Vegas to I think it was Seattle, Washington, down to San Diego and now up in Roseville for Fred's tournament.

I can forgive that he's a Pittsburgh Steelers fan considering he is supportive of this event.

He actually became close with the Biletnikoff family after training Fred and Angela's son, and later helping Tracey after her battle with substance abuse. He never turned his back on the family and remained close to them.

While I had the boxers stick more to the brown area of the football, I told Mr. Shamrock he could sign it anywhere.

Football players (non-Raiders) included former place kicker for the Rams and Niners, Bruce Gossett, former 49er defensive back, Eric Wright, former Charger/49er linebacker Gary Plummer (more on him in a bit) and former Packer MacArther Lane, (more on him later, too).

Gary Plummer was sitting between the momentarily absent Eric Wright and Ray Chester of Raiders fame. I reminded BlitzDude that he wasn't a Raider, and what teams he did play for.

He chose that time to start showing off his championship ring from the '9ers.

What I remember about Plummer? Him being shown after a play throwing a kidney punch. I asked him about that. He denied ever throwing it, saying he had to sweet and innocent of a face. I figured he was trying to remember WHICH kidney punch I may have been talking about. That's when he started in about the Raiders and championships. I said at least we were there in 2002. The '9ers hadn't sniffed an SB in a much longer time, and there were guys on the Raiders that had THREE of those rings. He said he only needed one. I reminded him he got it courtesy of the '9ers. If he had stayed a Charger he wouldn't have anything to be flashing. It was fun ribbing him. He was overall a good natured guy. I still wouldn't trust him in a game of flag football.

MacArther Lane I have seen I don't know how many times at the Oakland Coliseum. He was always polite and smiling and helpful to everyone. But just to let you know, this guy is dangerous. It wasn't long ago he would get together with friends and throw tomahawks at wood blocks in a friend's back yard in the Oakland area. From what I was told, he was VERY accurate. It was nice to officially meet him. He told me to be sure to talk to him next time I saw him at a game.

(see part 2) ]]> BlitzChick http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=11 How much did JRuss influence the DHB pick? http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=10 Mon, 31 May 2010 17:15:42 GMT Longtime Raider observer Ron Macom files the following observation: From JollyRoger: By the... Longtime Raider observer Ron Macom files the following observation:

From JollyRoger:
By the time DHB was picked, the Raiders already pretty much knew what they had on their hands with JRuss. I'm sure they had gotten pretty tired of his attitude. I'm also sure they were looking at the distinct possibility/reality of his eventual release.

WR was a big need in the 2009 draft. The guy most of us thought the Raiders should have drafted was Michael Crabtree. When we took DHB, most everybody figured it was because DHB was blazing fast, and Crabs was thought to be not so fast.

Click image for larger version Name: dhb.jpg Views: 11 Size: 12.6 KB ID: 1061Well... I say, not so fast... When the teams started bringing players in for visits prior to that draft, reports began coming out that Crabtree was a primadonna who traveling to these teams with a huge entourage. In fact, I read one report that stated the Raiders had been turned off because of this. That he was a very odd duck. And lo and behold... Crabtree had a long holdout... even threatened the Niners with sitting out the entire 2009 season

You know Al was watching...

Regardless of your feelings on whether DHB and the other 2009 Raiders draftees were worthy, they all did possess one thing... strong character traits. Fast forward to this draft... and the high character trend continues.

When your talking about the massive financial investment involved, the debacle that Russell was, may have a had a huge effect on how Al views his draft choices.

From that perspective, there may be something golden taken from the horrible choice of JaMarcus Russell afterall. ]]> Quartermaster http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=10 Twitter Links http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=9 Wed, 26 May 2010 17:03:32 GMT ----------------------------------------
Oakland Raiders' Official Twitter..http://twitter.com/raiders

RaiderMecca Twitter..http://twitter.com/raidermecca

Jerry McDonald & his blog..http://twitter.com/Jerrymcd..http://www.ibabuzz.com/oaklandraiders"

Vittorio Tafur..http://twitter.com/VittorioTafur

David White & his blog..http://twitter.com/bydavidwhite..http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/raiders/index

CBS Sports Raider Page w/regular updates..http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/team/OAK

Adam Schefter..http://twitter.com/Adam_Schefter

RaiderBeat..http://twitter.com/raiderbeat

Louis Murphy..http://twitter.com/murph918

Darren McFadden..http://twitter.com/dmcfadden20

Jeremy Ware..http://twitter.com/Jware9

Michael Bush..http://twitter.com/michaelbush29

Mike Mitchell..http://twitter.com/MikeMitchell34

Thomas Howard..http://twitter.com/Mr53

Mario Henderson and his blog..http://twitter.com/mariohenderson..http://www.mariohenderson75.com/blog.html

Walter McFadden..http://twitter.com/Wheezy6
(when I go to this one, I get the message about these tweets being kept private so I see nothing, but perhaps that may eventually change)

Jerome Boyd..http://twitter.com/ItsJB0YD

Tyvon Branch..http://twitter.com/tyvonbranch

Isaiah Ekejiuba..http://twitter.com/Ekejiuba50

Quentin Groves..http://twitter.com/QuentinGroves52

Jonathan Holland..http://twitter.com/j_holland7

Chris Johnson..http://twitter.com/ChrisJohnson_37

Marcel Reece..http://twitter.com/big_cel

Jay Richardson..http://twitter.com/JayRichardson98

Michael Huff..http://twitter.com/Huffy247

Jim Trotter..http://twitter.com/SI_JimTrotter

Drew Rosenhaus/Rosenhaus Sports..https://twitter.com/RosenhausSports ]]> Raiderbeliever http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=9 Raiders Offense vs. Defense http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=8 Tue, 25 May 2010 15:53:02 GMT Vote on this poll (click)... Vote on this poll (click)

Quote Originally Posted by Quartermaster View Post
OK, Hypothetically, let's say the Raiders' defense faced the Raiders' Offense and vice versa. I'm sure eventually the offense would put more points on the board. They had better!

If you look at 2009, I think everyone would agree that the defense player better than the offense. Kudos to John Marshall and the defense. On top of that, 6 of 9 draft picks were defensive players - including rounds 1 and 2.

But offense might have jumped ahead of the food chain simply by trading for Jason Campbell - a proven starter who has improved each and every year. And when you remove the giant clog from the latreen, the offense will move fluidly and work as expected. But Hue Jackson might be the biggest single improvement in the offense - because: (1) We needed a dedicated OC who knows what he is doing (2) Jackson seems to have the right stuff to will our young players into achieving better results.

So who will have the best team? John Mashall or Hue Jackson? Or maybe John Fassell will take an average-at-best special teams and make them stars?
]]> Quartermaster http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=8 Things Are Starting to Change http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=7 Sat, 01 May 2010 05:39:02 GMT That’s what Coach Cable intimated in his post 2010 draft press conference. Aside from the 9... That’s what Coach Cable intimated in his post 2010 draft press conference.

Aside from the 9 rookie players in the 7 rounds of the draft, we also used draft picks to pick up some young vets that are still wanting to prove themselves. I know there will be some un-drafted rookie free agents that will join the roster, too.

Plus one. But I’ll get into that later.

For now I am going to talk some about the guys we brought in before the draft.

The first one, well over a month before the draft, is DE/LB Kamerion Wimbley. Wimbley was selected in the first round by the Cleveland Browns back in 2006. During his tenure as a Brown, he averaged over 6 sacks per season with a total of 26.5 sacks and had 7 forced fumbles. He had 183 solo tackles, 65 assists, 4 passes defended with one interception. Back in 2006, as a draft prospect, he was thought to be raw, but with a 4.61 40, this 6'3" player had some speed. He’s added about 7 lbs since his draft weight, and is currently 255 lbs. The Raiders have him currently slated to play linebacker. My thoughts : he’ll be playing in the outside slot when we show a 3-4 defense. His draft prospectus alluded that this would be a position he could play. This is how we were using Trevor Scott last season with success. I like the idea of having either one of these guys to use on passing downs rushing the quarterback. With both on the field, they both have the speed to cover a tight end over the middle, but either one could rush, too. Fooling the offense, or having them wonder where the pressure will be coming from can only help. Add to that: he can tackle. This could help us stop the run. And we need the help. With the 4 years experience he brings, he cost us a 3rd round pick. While this shows Cleveland didn’t value him too highly, this young man fits with what the Raiders are building.

Our 2nd pre-draft acquisition, Quentin Groves, came to us for a 5th round pick. Back in the 2008 draft, the Jacksonville Jaguars traded up to select this defensive end that they converted to a linebacker. We have him slated as defensive end. His numbers aren’t much to look at, but he had only 7 starts in his 2 years there, and it was thought his time would be ending soon. He had a slightly slower 40 at the combine than Wimbley, a 4.57, but at 6'3" and 254 lbs., is pretty much the same size. Perhaps the switch to his former college position will give this young man the opportunity to live up to the potential he showed when he earned a Coaches All-SEC First Team Selection. Another important thing to consider, this young man knows what it is like to win. His senior class was the winningest in Auburn history, with 50 total wins.

The NFL draft itself showed the Raiders were serious about correcting the problems within the defense.

Though many mock drafts had the Raiders opting for an over-hyped and much maligned OT Bruce Campbell in the first round, the Raiders, according so some so-called experts, reached a bit and selected Rolando McClain. It is said he sat out the combine due to injury, but another report stated it was a decision based upon a problem with his Crohn’s disease.
Playing for Alabama’s Crimson Tide, this middle linebacker was signal caller, team leader and the most active defensive player on the field.

Ranked by some as the 10th of top 100 draft prospects, I don’t understand the whole “reach” frame of mind for this Butkus Award recipient. Now it could be his average numbers at his pro-day may have had some questioning him. For me? Numbers at pro-days and combines may be indicative of what a player can do, or you need to see what a player has done in the game. This is a PLAYER. We can over look the average pro-day numbers. Some may have decided his Crohn’s Disease could be an issue. Properly controlled and monitored, this shouldn’t be an issue. Many of his team mates at Alabama weren’t even aware he had the disease, so I don’t foresee that as a problem. Add to that, the most recent reports are now that Mr. McClain may not even have Crohn’s. There is no definitive test for it, so while there is a health concern, the cause is currently unknown. But as I said, proper monitoring of his health should cover this.

No, I think the “reach” train of thought has to do with the fact that not many figured us to go with him. Add all the press about the multiple talks the Raiders had with Mr. Campbell, I can’t help but think the so-called experts just had a little too much egg on their faces to wipe off and had their precious little egos bruised. It is a solid pick. The idea of a middle linebacker being able to cover the short zone on pass plays, directing his team mates will be a nice change for the Raiders. Don’t get me wrong, I love Kirk Morrison. How could I not? He’s led the team in tackles more than once. However, he just doesn’t bring to the table what the Raiders need. Rolando McClain has an upside that can bring an immediate impact to our defense.

The second round, many figured we’d be going for defensive tackle and team mate of Rolando McClain, Terrence Cody. For sheer mass, this guy could plug a huge hole as nose tackle for any 3-4 defense. In fact, his “unmatched size” is considered one of his strengths. However, with that “unmatched size” comes lack of speed, weight issues and problems with endurance. Also, he doesn’t show the strength for a player his size, so he also has conditioning issues. His 40 time - 5.64, and for all the claims of athleticism, his broad jump was 7.5 feet. His vertical, which could be important, a mere 20.5 inches. He didn’t bench press at al at the combine. He did improve these numbers some at his pro-day, but had only 22 reps in the bench press. For players this size, the speed of the game at the pro level is huge. These are all reasons why I didn’t want him. I still figured we would draft him because it really appears to me that we are, at least in some situations, going to a see a 3-4 defense, and that requires a good sized nose tackle.

We didn’t draft him. (I did my happy dance...)

Instead, they went for DT/DE Lamarr Houston. Originally thought of as a 2nd to 3rd round pick, he moved up to possibly late 1st round because of his combine results. These results include 40 time of 4.85, a vertical of 33.5 inches, a full foot higher than Cody’s, while his broad jump was 9.5 feet, 2 feet longer than Cody’s. He had 30 reps in the bench press, 8 more than larger Cody. Now there was a DWI charge against Houston back in his sophomore year, but no issues since then. One writer commented about his tights and yellow shoes in the combine, implying he was drawing attention to himself. I can understand if that were the case. The combine, after all, is a form of job interview. Standing out could be a good thing. And Houston did, for the right reasons. He can play DT or DE and shows a versatility we need. Another solid pick on a name that didn’t come with hype or splash.


For round 3, the Raiders applied a trick they learned back in the ‘81 draft when in round 2 they selected a guy named Howie Long from Villanova. The majority of the NFL world asked “Who from where?” He was a reach from a school no one considered could produce an NFL pro. From Hillsdale, which is in Michigan for those that didn’t know, the Raiders selected Jason Veldheer, a 6'8" 318 lb. Offensive tackle that, in his college career, never allowed a sack. Okay, close your jaw and accept it as fact. The Raiders didn’t select Bruce Campbell, AGAIN. I don’t know what to say about a guy that can clean jerk 425 lbs. without his neck and head exploding. I don’t know what to say about a player that large, yet whose physique has had him compared to Adonis, because there just isn’t the blubber, the fat, the belly roll or the done-lapped-over-the-belt gut one sees with many offensive line men. He is the only offensive line man to score in the top 10 in every combine event. Talk about athleticism! He turned heads. So what if he’s from a Division II school?

When pick number 106 came up in round 4, the Raiders seemingly started to listen to the talking heads and drafted the player they were expected to take in the first round, the hyped up, and now hopefully humbled, Bruce Campbell. Many talked about the free fall of Golden Domer QB Jimmy Clausen. Who expected Bruce Campbell to last until round 4? He was originally expected to go in the bottom half of round 1, with the possibility of going earlier based on his combine numbers which had some thinking of him as abnormally physically gifted . With the 4th fastest 40 time recorded by an OT and as fast as tight ends were logging, (4.85), one could understand why he was projected so high. But he fell. And fell. And fell. As strong as he is, (34 reps in the 225 lb. bench press), he has technique issues. He has stamina issues. He hasn’t been able to complete a single college season. Red flags that caused him to drop. Drastically. As a 4th round pick, this is what one calls draft value. Every issue can be corrected if Bruce is willing to work on himself. Hopefully the massive 3 round drop will give him a big enough chip on his shoulder and have him wanting to prove how every team that let him slide made a mistake.

With another 4th round pick, this one acquired from the Jacksonville Jaguars in a trade involving Kirk Morrison, the Raiders moved up to grab speedy Clemson receiver Jacoby Ford. Key words when considering Jacoby Ford: elusive, shifty and , music to my ears, top return man. Anyone that watched the Raiders knows the return game struggled with Johnnie Lee Higgins having trouble running towards the team that kicked the ball, and Gary Russell being a full back attempting to be a return man. What’s even sadder is Russell seemed to be more successful than fleeter -footed Johnnie Lee Higgins. Concerns of durability, (he’s just under 5'9" and 186 lbs.), and questionable hands haunt Jacoby Ford, but there had to be at least one sub 4.3 40 player drafted, and this is him. As long as he can return the rock, I don’t care if we never see him running a route. The drafting of this young man may see Mr. Higgins looking for another contract elsewhere.

The 5th round draft pick had the Raiders looking back to their defense with Walter McFadden, an Auburn Tiger. At just under 5'11" and 181 lbs., he isn’t one the larger cornerbacks to take the field. Projected as a possible 4th rounder, none of the talking heads could call this pick a reach. His pro day results had only 5 reps while pressing over 40 lbs more than his body weight, but I consider it something that he accomplished that. His 4.4 and 4.43 40s and the 35.5 vertical are far more telling for a defensive back. And that music I heard earlier just gets better when I read that he was an excellent gunner on special teams. He doesn’t back down from tackles. And the best part about this? The tackles are the wrap-up kind, low on the body, that bring a player down. His run support is his biggest weakness, but he can cover in both man and zone, though he doesn’t have the size often seen in man-on-man coverage. He may bite on the play action fake, but he can recover and can sniff out a screen play so as to properly defend it.

An intriguing prospect that could find himself in dime coverage while earning his keep on special teams.

Continuing to look to the defensive side of the ball, Arizona Sun Devil Travis Goethal may have been surprised to hear his name called in the 6th round. Considered slow for a linebacker, considered to have the athleticism a linebacker needs, Goethal started all but 9 games (those being in his freshman year), in his college career. The Jaguars thought enough of him to take special note of him. The Cowboys were looking at him and asked him to work out as full back, a request he didn’t turn down. Words that have been used to describe him: tough and nasty. He may end up being a strong special teamer that sees back up time on the field at the LB and/or FB position, both of which are needs for the Raiders.

In the 7th round, the Raiders stuck to defense, selecting 2 defensive backs: Jeremy Ware, a former Gamecock that ended his college career as an MSU Spartan, and Stevie, (please he’s in his 20s, can we just call him Steve?), Brown, a Michigan Wolverine.

Jeremy Ware was the only Spartan selected in the draft. He was told the coaches from Oakland liked his ability to tackle and his man to man coverage skills. Oh , and yeah, his 4.3 40 time probably helped. I am sure his 37.5" vertical didn’t hurt any. At just about 5'10" and 183 lbs., he isn’t a real big guy. His senior year he put up 52 tackles and 3 tackles for a loss, 2 sacks and 5 passes defended. He doesn’t have the play time we might like to see, but he’s coachable, and with his speed, could see some time as a gunner on special teams, or we may see what he can do in the return game.

Steve Brown is the last of defensive backs chosen, just under 6 ft and weighing in at 212 lbs., he’s a bit larger than the other DBs selected by the Raiders, though not surprising as he played safety. In his 4 years of play, he had over 100 solo tackles, 82 assists, but only 4 interceptions. 8 of those tackles his senior year were for a loss, and he also had 4 passes defended in the same season. While he can hit, and is good in run support, he seems to have a tendency to not do so well in man coverage. Possible dime back and special teamer. Speed can’t be taught, but this kid had 23 reps in the bench press, so there is some upper body strength that can be utilized. He even saw time as a linebacker. The Packers and the Jets seemed to have an interest in him. It will be curious to see what he can do at the next level.

Now the plus one.

It’s no secret that JaMarcus Russell hasn’t been the chosen one, despite the bling he likes to wear. He has been a disappointment to many, though he manages to hang on to a few staunch supporters that have turned a blind eye to the continuing weight gain, the increasingly bad passing, the total lack of consistent improvement as well as inability to throw the ball to the guys wearing the same color jersey he is wearing, as well as his penchant for fumbling. These supporters have also turned a deaf ear to rumors of an alleged liking for “syrup”, a combination of cough syrup and soda.

The Raiders signed both Bruce Gradkowski and Charlie Frye to contracts. Kyle Boller was brought in. And during the last day of the draft, adding insult to injury to Jason Cambell? After acquiring of Donovan McNabb earlier this April , Jason’s former team traded him for a 4th round pick... 2 years from now. He is now a Raider. We acquired him during the 4th round of activity. He was drafted in 2005, though he saw no play time that year. Largely a disappointment to the Redskins, he is an improvement over Russell, as Jason’s QB rating is actually in the 80s. He has fumbled quite a bit, but hopefully a new and improved offensive line , with a system better suited to him will help his numbers. I have mixed feeling about this. However, this another 1st round pick with real game time experience that has shown flashes of good play that came cheap.

With 2009's hero, Bruce Gradkowski requiring surgery to repair a torn pectoral muscle, I can understand wanting someone with experience, rather than drafting a developmental rookie like Dan Lefevour.

I can only hope that he turns out as well as another quarterback that we took in after be considered unworthy of starting. This player went on to lead the Raiders to 2 Super Bowl victories, being named MVP in Super Bowl, at that time being the ONLY team to have come from a wild card berth and take home the Lombardi. Would it be wrong of me to put a sign on him stating: ‘Lightning , please strike here”?

As I mentioned, we’d be signing players that didn’t get drafted. So far, those signings include:

Kellen Heard, DT Texas A &M (Once ejected for a late hit on Colt McCoy)
Manase Tonga, FB, BYU
Alex Daniels, DE, Cinci
Alex Parsons, RG, USC
Chane Moline, RB, UCLA


We have also signed a couple of players from out of the blue.
John Owens, TE, from Seattle
Joey Thomas, DB, from Dolphins (most recently)

Most recently we are taking a look at Michael Bennett running back.


Over all, I have to say that I am pleased with the Raiders draft. I think they did well. There were no early selections of flashy, hyped up players. There were no reaches, despite what the self-proclaimed experts say. This was a solid draft that could produce some immediate impact players.

This is a young team, with some solid veteran leadership. Times they are a-changin’ and I think the villain big and bold may be laughing when he’s conquered and won sooner than some have thought possible .

As ever,

Win, lose or tie, RAIDERS tile I DIE!

BlitzChick ]]> BlitzChick http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=7 Gearjammer is back home from hospital http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=6 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 20:05:28 GMT Want to thank all FIB's for their thoughts and prayers. I'm home and doing as well as to be expected. Plenty sore, but am up and around slowly of course. Hope to see all at the Mecca in Sept. Keep up the good fight

GJ ]]> GearJammer http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=6 Posting on the board... http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=2 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 17:41:10 GMT Wow, I hit the 1000 post mark and didn't even notice. Well, it's all about quality over quantity anyway, right? :thumb:

]]> raiderdave http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=2 University of Raider Studies http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=1 Mon, 13 Oct 2008 02:50:00 GMT *University** of Raider** Studies* The Worldwide Fans In Black Booster Club’s mission is simple:... University of Raider Studies

The Worldwide Fans In Black Booster Club’s mission is simple: "Advancing a better understanding of the Greatness of the Raiders".

This is done by working towards these core values:
(1) Strive to educate new fans on the rich history of the team,
(2) Counter the anti-Raiders media bias with a more balanced and responsible view that only long-time daily observers can have.
(3) At every opportunity, work with Raider fans worldwide to perform good, charitable and giving deeds... validating the true face of the Raider Nation,
(4) Foster better communication between Raider fans through online resources and in-person events.

To that end, the WFIB Business Office has begun constructing an online campus complete with library and curriculum to serve WFIB members and Raider fans worldwide. Initially it will be a framework with some core topics. Within 3 years the goal is for the University to store a vast amount of historical and educational content.

Below is an outline of the “organization” of the University. It might be overkill for a collection of web pages, but if the University becomes popular, the organization will be needed.

I) Student/Faculty Ranking - For simplicity and effect, the University will adopt an individual ranking method similar to the “Jedi Order” of literature and movie fame. The order will work as follows:
a. The embodiment of becoming fully knowledgeable of the Raiders will mimic the concept of “The Force”.

b. General Raider fans who are not WFIB members will have access to some materials within the University, but will not be able to enroll or achieve rank.

c. Those who choose to study the discipline (there will be a means by which individuals can enroll) will be ranked as “Raider”. The requirements to enroll are: (1) Active WFIB membership and (2) answer a few questions.

d. The work on the University will begin by recruiting those who have demonstrated “Padawan” status(contributed selflessly to advancing Raider fan knowledge). These recruits will form the University Council. They will also be the first “Apprentices” and contributors to the University.

e. Those who demonstrate WFIB Excellence in their contributions to the University will advance from “Apprentice” to “Black Knight” and eventually to “Master”. (no, the username “Quartermaster” does not imply rank within the order.) . Deeds, quality of deeds and time will demonstrate the rank.

f. As earlier explained, the role of University Council will be initially appointed. In time, those who reach “Black Knight” and “Master” status will direct and oversee the University.



II) Curriculum
a. Year 1, all contributions come from Raider Apprentices.

b. Following Year 1, contributions of content, aka deeds, will be taken from any Raider fan who has met certain requirements:
i. Must come from a ranking member of the Raider order.
ii. Must fit within the categories established or be of enough quality to establish a new category.
iii. The Council will determine the category of content.

c. There will be multiple “facilities” within the University Campus. There facilities will house the various types of content. They are:
i. Library – Advanced study topics, links to resources, .
ii. History – Topics of general historical nature belong here. Such as early Raiders’ history, historic games, etc.
iii. Administration – Topics related to the Raiders’ administration, organization belong here.
iv. Legends Shrine – Hall of Fame, Lists of Legendary Players and Moments of Greatness are enshrined within this building.
v. The Stadium – Coaching and Football Philosophy covered here.
vi. Mathematics – Collection of numerical data including statistics and rankings.

III) Operation Costs, Scholarships
a. As an extension of the Business Office, the University of Raider Studies will use WFIB online resources. No additional bandwidth, disk storage or software is anticipated in the first year of operation.
b. An annual review of resources will be conducted by the Business Officer to determine expansion needs and any operating costs. Additional costs, if needed, will be passed through the Executive Committee.
c. Scholarships will be offered provided they are sponsored by WFIB members. A member seeking to fund a scholarship will pay scholarship fee (expected to be $25), email the name of who the scholarship will be gifted to. The recipient of the scholarship will become a WFIB member and be eligible for enrollment. More details coming in 2009 ]]> Quartermaster http://www.fansinblack.com/x/blog.php?b=1