tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39929955854498001092024-03-12T20:22:19.139-07:00CaliPro Sports BlogNews, Opinions, Predictions, and more on the Raiders and NFL! Also, some articles about the A's and Warriors!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger13125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-64845247715234138732018-06-11T20:20:00.003-07:002018-06-11T20:21:11.900-07:00NFL 2018-2019 Predictions<h3>AFC</h3><div><table>
<thead><tr><th>#</th><th>AFC North</th> <th>WLT < /th><th>Div</tr></thead>
<tbody><tr> <td style="color:green; font-weight:bold"> 2 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#PIT">Steelers</a> </td><td>11-5</td> <td>5-1 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:red;font-style:italic;"> 9 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#BAL">Ravens</a> </td><td>8-8</td> <td>4-2 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:red;font-style:italic;"> 11 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#CIN">Bengals</a> </td><td>7-9</td> <td>2-4 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:red;font-style:italic;"> 16 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#CLE">Browns</a> </td><td>2-14</td> <td>1-5 </td></tr> </tbody></table><table>
<thead><tr><th>#</th><th>AFC South</th> <th>WLT < /th><th>Div</tr></thead>
<tbody><tr> <td style="color:green; font-weight:bold"> 4 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#HOU">Texans</a> </td><td>10-6</td> <td>5-1 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:green; font-weight:bold"> 6 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#TEN">Titans</a> </td><td>10-6</td> <td>4-2 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:red;font-style:italic;"> 7 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#JAC">Jaguars</a> </td><td>10-6</td> <td>3-3 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:red;font-style:italic;"> 15 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#IND">Colts</a> </td><td>2-14</td> <td>0-6 </td></tr> </tbody></table><table>
<thead><tr><th>#</th><th>AFC East</th> <th>WLT < /th><th>Div</tr></thead>
<tbody><tr> <td style="color:green; font-weight:bold"> 1 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#NE">Patriots</a> </td><td>13-3</td> <td>6-0 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:red;font-style:italic;"> 10 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#BUF">Bills</a> </td><td>7-9</td> <td>2-4 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:red;font-style:italic;"> 13 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#NYJ">Jets</a> </td><td>4-12</td> <td>2-4 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:red;font-style:italic;"> 14 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#MIA">Dolphins</a> </td><td>3-13</td> <td>2-4 </td></tr> </tbody></table><table>
<thead><tr><th>#</th><th>AFC West</th> <th>WLT < /th><th>Div</tr></thead>
<tbody><tr> <td style="color:green; font-weight:bold"> 3 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#OAK">Raiders</a> </td><td>11-5</td> <td>5-1 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:green; font-weight:bold"> 5 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#LAC">Chargers</a> </td><td>11-5</td> <td>4-2 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:red;font-style:italic;"> 8 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#DEN">Broncos</a> </td><td>8-8</td> <td>2-4 </td></tr> <tr> <td style="color:red;font-style:italic;"> 12 </td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#KC">Chiefs</a> </td><td>6-10</td> <td>1-5 </td></tr> </tbody></table></div><div><h3>NFC</h3><table>
<thead><tr><th>#</th><th>NFC North</th><th>WLT<th>Div</tr></thead>
<tbody><tr><td style="color:green; font-weight:bold">1</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#MIN">Vikings</a></td><td>13-3</td><td>6-0</td></tr><tr><td style="color:green; font-weight:bold">5</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#GB">Packers</a></td><td>12-4</td><td>3-3</td></tr><tr><td style="color:red;font-style:italic;">12</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#DET">Lions</a></td><td>7-9</td><td>2-4</td></tr><tr><td style="color:red;font-style:italic;">15</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#CHI">Bears</a></td><td>3-13</td><td>1-5</td></tr></tbody></table><table>
<thead><tr><th>#</th><th>NFC South</th><th>WLT<th>Div</tr></thead>
<tbody><tr><td style="color:green; font-weight:bold">4</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#ATL">Falcons</a></td><td>10-6</td><td>5-1</td></tr><tr><td style="color:red;font-style:italic;">8</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#CAR">Panthers</a></td><td>9-7</td><td>3-3</td></tr><tr><td style="color:red;font-style:italic;">10</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#NO">Saints</a></td><td>8-8</td><td>2-4</td></tr><tr><td style="color:red;font-style:italic;">13</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#TB">Buccaneers</a></td><td>5-11</td><td>2-4</td></tr></tbody></table><table>
<thead><tr><th>#</th><th>NFC East</th><th>WLT<th>Div</tr></thead>
<tbody><tr><td style="color:green; font-weight:bold">3</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#PHI">Eagles</a></td><td>12-4</td><td>4-2</td></tr><tr><td style="color:green; font-weight:bold">6</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#DAL">Cowboys</a></td><td>11-5</td><td>4-2</td></tr><tr><td style="color:red;font-style:italic;">11</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#WAS">Redskins</a></td><td>8-8</td><td>3-3</td></tr><tr><td style="color:red;font-style:italic;">14</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#NYG">Giants</a></td><td>4-12</td><td>1-5</td></tr></tbody></table><table>
<thead><tr><th>#</th><th>NFC West</th><th>WLT</th><th>Div</tr></thead>
<tbody><tr><td style="color:green; font-weight:bold">2</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#LA">Rams</a></td><td>12-4</td><td>3-3</td></tr><tr><td style="color:red;font-style:italic;">7</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#SF">49ers</a></td><td>9-7</td><td>4-2</td></tr><tr><td style="color:red;font-style:italic;">9</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#SEA">Seahawks</a></td><td>8-8</td><td>4-2</td></tr><tr><td style="color:red;font-style:italic;">16</td><td><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA#ARI">Cardinals</a></td><td>2-14</td><td>1-5</td></tr></tbody></table></div><a href="https://playoffpredictors.com/?L=Ew4RjdIzziQ0QxUaw29V7unpONXInUJPLBAoy7Y7C0km-Fat6HTJq5XdlyZ1KoeFjRA">Generated By The NFL Playoff Predictor</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-80940469530834323542012-07-17T23:37:00.000-07:002012-07-17T23:37:00.198-07:002012-2013 Season PredictionsHere's how I see the upcoming season turning out.<br />
<br />
Record Playoff Seed<br />
AFC EAST<br />
New England Patriots 13-3 (1)<br />
Buffalo Bills 8-8<br />
New York Jets 7-9<br />
Miami Dolphins 3-13<br />
<br />
AFC NORTH<br />
Baltimore Ravens 11-5 (3)<br />
Pittsburgh Steelers 10-6 (5)<br />
Cincinnati Bengals 8-8<br />
Cleveland Browns 2-14<br />
<br />
AFC SOUTH<br />
Houston Texans 11-5 (2)<br />
Tennessee Titans 8-8<br />
Jacksonville Jaguars 5-11<br />
Indianapolis Colts 4-12<br />
<br />
AFC WEST<br />
Denver Broncos 10-6 (4) <br />
Oakland Raiders 9-7 (6)<br />
Kansas City Chiefs 8-8<br />
San Diego Chargers 7-9<br />
<br />
NFC EAST<br />
New York Giants 10-6 (4) <br />
Philadelphia Eagles 10-6 (6)<br />
Dallas Cowboys 8-8<br />
Washington Redskins 6-10<br />
<br />
NFC NORTH<br />
Green Bay Packers 12-4 (1)<br />
Chicago Bears 10-6 (5)<br />
Detroit Lions 9-7<br />
Minnesota Vikings 5-11<br />
<br />
NFC SOUTH<br />
New Olreans Saints 11-5 (3)<br />
Atlanta Falcons 9-7<br />
Carolina Panthers 7-9<br />
Tampa Bay Bucs 5-11<br />
<br />
NFC WEST<br />
San Francisco 49ers 11-5 (2)<br />
Seattle Seahawks 9-7<br />
Arizona Cardinals 6-10<br />
St. Louis Rams 4-12<br />
<br />
<br />
SUPER BOWL PREDICTION:<br />
<br />
Green Bay Packers defeat Houston TexansUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-21100219343684415792011-11-29T00:08:00.000-08:002011-11-29T00:08:27.982-08:00Carson Palmer-- A Dream Come True for Raider NationCarson Palmer is everything the Raiders have lacked the past 10 years: An Elite Quarterback. He has strong leadership, a strong arm, accuracy, the presence of mind to change the play at the line of scrimmage, and the ability to throw to a spot on the field where he knows his WR's will be. He is a field general. There is no doubt in my mind that Carson Palmer has the ability to take this Raider team deep into the playoffs and possibly win a Super Bowl this year, if not more over the next 4 or 5 seasons if healthy.<br />
<br />
When the Raiders first traded for Carson Palmer from the Bengals after Jason Campbell's season ending injury, there was much criticism from the national media. The Raiders essentially gave up two 1st Round Picks to acquire him. A heavy price for a QB that hadn't seen the field in an entire season. But head coach Hue Jackson and the Raiders knew what they were getting; a QB that could take the time to the next level over the next 4-5 seasons.<br />
<br />
Carson's first game with the Raiders back in week 7 against the Kansas City Chiefs was not fun to watch. Backup QB Kyle Boller was forced to start and looked terrible. Then, Palmer was thrown out there in the 2nd half with his team down by 21 points and with less than a week of practice under his belt. He threw 3 interceptions but most of them weren't his fault due to tipped passes by his WR's or miscommunications on routes. But there were a couple of really nice throws that made you wonder if with more time those throws would occur more frequently. It has taken time for Palmer to get a better grasp of the offense and develop chemistry with his WR's. Week after week though, as Palmer has spent more time with his WR's and offensive line, we can see a glimpse of the greatness that is to come.<br />
<br />
WR Denarius Moore in particular, has shown excellent chemistry with Palmer especially against Denver in Week 9 and San Diego in Week 10 where they connected on deep TD's in the same game. Just this past Sunday against an elite Chicago Bears defense, Palmer threw for 300 yards yet again.<br />
<br />
Every single week he leads the team down the field and makes amazing throws that Raider fans haven't seen in decades. Al Davis would be proud to watch the Raiders execute the deep ball vertical passing game that Palmer is capable of and has connected on this season. Al expected great things from the Raiders each and every year, and this year it seems as though those expectations will finally be met again.<br />
<br />
One can only imagine what the Raiders offense will be capable of once RB Darren McFadden is healthy, as well as WR Jacoby Ford. When healthy and with QB Carson Palmer at the helm, this new look Raider's offense is a force to be reckoned with.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-76944633853172782862011-09-13T14:27:00.000-07:002011-09-13T14:27:49.219-07:00Post Game Thoughts WEEK 1: Oakland 23 Denver 20; Raiders beat Donkeys!In a game full of chaos, penalties, and fumbles, the Raiders prevailed 23-20 in a nail biter. It was a typical Raider vs Bronco rivalry game, where there are always numerous penalties (most of them unnecessary roughness or personal foul calls) called. The Raiders proved to be the more physical team and dominated in the trenches. The Raiders defensive line tallied 4 sacks and consistently pressured Orton all game long. On the offensive side of the ball, the Raiders offensive line opened up running lanes on the left side for Darren McFadden to run through. The Raiders dominated the game on every level except discipline. The Raiders almost allowed the Broncos to come back and win by giving them 2nd and 3rd chances on drives through dumb penalties. But hey, I guess that's Raider football for ya. :)<br />
<br />
<u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Positives:</span></u><br />
<u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></u><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>+ </b>K Sebestian Janikowski: Was 3/3 on FG's and made a 63 yard field goal as time in the 1st half expired!</span><br />
<b>+</b> RB Darren McFadden: Did we expect anything less than 22 carries for 150 yards? He dominated the Broncos as he usually does against their weak run defense.<br />
<br />
<b>+</b> FS Matt Giordano: Had a huge game for us replacing the injured Michael Huff. Giardano had a momentum shifting interception on a throw intended deep for Bronco WR Brandon Lloyd, and also forced a fumble that was recovered by the Raiders.<br />
<br />
<b>+</b>Raider's Defensive Line: Richard Seymour, Tommy Kelly, and Matt Shaughnessy all had atleast 1 sack. Would have had more if not for some holding penalties called on the Broncos.<br />
<br />
<b>+</b> WR Darrius Heyward-Bey: This was DHB's best game of his career. He was our go to guy last night, and converted some huge 3rd downs for us. He was actually Campbell's favorite target for once. He almost had a deep completion downfield in the 2nd quarter but Campbell's throw was too far toward the sideline for it to be completed in bounds. DHB keeps improving and will look to prove haters wrong this year.<br />
<br />
<b>+</b> FB Marcel Reece: One of our best playmaker's on offense. He is trully a matchup nightmare for defenses. Has the ability to block for DMac, as well as motion outside as a WR and make big plays in the passing game. Reece scored the Raiders first TD of the season on a pass to the flat from QB Jason Campbell.<br />
<br />
<b>+</b> CB Stanford Routt: Played pretty well when matched up against Brandon Lloyd. Only allowed 1 reception if I remember correctly. Had 2 pass deflections and was solid in man coverage. Most of Lloyd's receptions came against CB Chris Johnson who was injured most of preseason and training camp.<br />
<br />
<b>+ </b>HB Michael Bush: Struggled a bit in the 1st half but sealed the game for the Raiders in the 4th quarter with huge runs for 1st downs to keep the clock runinng.<br />
<br />
<b>+</b> LT Jared Veldheer and C Samson Satele: These two guys had great games on the offensive line. Both were exceptional in both run blocking and pass protection.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>Negatives:</u></span><br />
<br />
- RT's Khalif Barnes and Stephon Heyer: Everyone who played RT for the Raiders seemed to struggle last night whether it was due to false starts, holding calls, or just getting beaten by the Broncos fantastic OLB pass rushers Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil.<br />
<br />
- PENALTIES!!! The Raiders nearly gave the game away by getting so many stupid penalties. Some calls were questionable but most of the Raider penalties were stupid and showed that there still lies a lack of discipline on this Raider football team. The Raider's had 15 penalties in the game for 140 yards. That's just downright pathetic.<br />
<br />
- WR Jacoby Ford: Had a terrible opener. He fumbled the Raiders first offensive play of the game and gave the Broncos their first 3 points. Didn't contribute anything after the first two possessions and injured his hamstring later in the game.<br />
<br />
-WR Nick Miller: Why is he still on the team? He let a punt bounce from the 12 yard line instead of calling for a fair catch and it rolled down to the 1 yard line to give the Raiders terrible field position. He didn't catch a pass and hasn't contributed anything the past 2 years on the team. We have more capable guys of returning punts such as WR Denarius Moore.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-30503977306312280272011-09-07T19:59:00.000-07:002011-09-07T20:42:32.428-07:00NFL 2011-12 Season Predictions<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">MY SEASON PREDICTIONS (2011-12)</span></u></b><br />
<br />
*Division Winner (Playoff Berth)<br />
** Wild Card (Playoff Berth)<br />
<br />
<u>AFC EAST</u><br />
1. New England Patriots (12-4)* #1 seed<br />
2. New York Jets (11-5)** #5 seed<br />
3. Miami Dolphins (6-10)<br />
4. Buffalo Bills (4-12)<br />
<br />
<u>AFC NORTH:</u><br />
1. Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5)* #2 seed<br />
2. Baltimore Ravens (10-6)** #6 seed<br />
3. Cleveland Browns (8-8)<br />
4. Cincinnati Bengals (4-12)<br />
<br />
<u>AFC SOUTH:</u><br />
1. Houston Texans (10-6)* #3 seed<br />
2. Indianapolis Colts (8-8)<br />
3. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-9)<br />
4. Tennessee Titans (6-10)<br />
<br />
<u>AFC WEST:</u><br />
1. San Diego Chargers (10-6)* #4 seed<br />
2. Kansas City Chiefs (8-8)<br />
3. Oakland Raiders (7-9)<br />
4. Denver Broncos (5-11)<br />
<br />
-------------------------<br />
<br />
<u>NFC EAST:</u><br />
1. Philadelphia Eagles (12-4)* #2 seed<br />
2. New York Giants (8-8)<br />
3. Dallas Cowboys (7-9)<br />
4. Washington Redskins (4-12)<br />
<br />
<u>NFC NORTH:</u><br />
1. Green Bay Packers (14-2)* #1 seed<br />
2. Chicago Bears (9-7)** #6 seed<br />
3. Detroit Lions (8-8)<br />
4. Minnesota Vikings (6-10)<br />
<br />
<u>NFC SOUTH:</u><br />
1. New Orleans Saints (11-5)* #3 seed<br />
2. Atlanta Falcons (10-6)** #5 seed<br />
3. Tampa Bay Bucs (9-7)<br />
4. Carolina Panthers (4-12)<br />
<br />
<u>NFC WEST:</u><br />
1. St. Louis Rams (9-7)* #4 seed<br />
2. Arizona Seahawks (7-9)<br />
3. Seattle Seahawks (6-10)<br />
4. San Francisco 49ers (5-11)<br />
<br />
------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">PLAYOFFS</span></u><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u><br />
</u></span><br />
<u>WILD CARD ROUND:</u><br />
<u><br />
</u><br />
AFC:<br />
#6 Baltimore Ravens @ #3<b> Houston Texans</b><br />
#5 New York Jets @ #4<b> San Diego Chargers</b><br />
<br />
NFC:<br />
#6 Chicago Bears @ #3 <b>New Orleans Saints</b><br />
#5 <b>Atlanta Falcons</b> @ #4 St. Louis Rams<br />
<br />
<u>DIVISIONAL ROUND:</u><br />
<u><br />
</u><br />
AFC:<br />
#4 San Diego Chargers @ #1 <b>New England Patriots</b><br />
#3 Houston Texans @ #2 <b>Pittsburgh Steelers</b><br />
<br />
NFC:<br />
#5 Atlanta Falcons @ #1 <b>Green Bay Packers</b><br />
#3 <b>New Orleans Saints</b> @ #2 Philadelphia Eagles<br />
<br />
<u>CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND:</u><br />
<u><br />
</u><br />
#2 Pittsburgh Steelers @ #1 <b>New England Patriots</b><br />
#3 New Orleans Saints @ #1 <b>Green Bay Packers</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<u>SUPER BOWL:</u><br />
<u><br />
</u><br />
New England Patriots @ <b>Green Bay Packers</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-27143673596703840322011-09-06T16:56:00.000-07:002011-09-06T16:56:42.998-07:00Post-Game Thoughts On Raiders vs. Seattle Seahawks (Pre-Season Game 4)<b>Oakland Raiders </b>3 <b>Seattle Seahawks</b> 20<br />
<br />
I know "it's just preseason" but the Raiders have me very skeptical on how their going to look this year. In the last preseason game, you want to have all the kinks worked out so your team is ready for week 1 of the regular season. The Raiders, in my opinion, don't look anywhere near ready for the opener in Denver.<br />
<br />
Also, I think I can speak for everyone when I say I'm disappointed that <b>Terrelle Pryor</b> didn't play at all in the 4th quarter. That was really the only reason I kept watching the beat down in the 2nd half.<br />
<br />
The only real positive I have to say about this game is <b>RT Stephon Heyer</b>. Even though Barnes is starting, I think Heyer is the better fit on the Raiders O-Line. And I'm not just saying that because of his own "immaculate reception" against the Saints the week before. He hasn't gotten beat much, if at all during the Preaseason and looked good run blocking and in pass protection.<br />
<br />
<br />
<u>Positives:</u><br />
+ Tyvon Branch: He actually looked like a FS in the game and had a nice pick.<br />
+ Stanford Routt: Once again, the only CB on our team that didn't get beat all game.<br />
+ Stephon Heyer: Looks good so far this preseason and should be starting. On one play in the game he pass blocked against two defenders with his two arms out wide.<br />
<br />
<u>Negatives:</u><br />
- Defensive Line didn't stop the run and didn't get any pass rush. Probably because Seymour wasn't playing but still you would think our DL wouldn't be that bad without him.<br />
- Our entire secondary. Nobody made plays except for Joe Porter deflecting a pass in the 4th quarter. That was it. Everyone was constantly getting beat except for Routt.<br />
-This was the first game where our first team offense didn't do much. At least Darren McFadden will be back for the regular season and could be wearing a dark visor. Oh yeaaaaa!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-85143267299212387952011-08-29T14:27:00.000-07:002011-08-29T14:27:57.242-07:00Post-Game Thoughts On Raiders vs. New Orleans Saints (Pre-Season Game 3)Oakland Raiders 20 <b>New Orleans Saints 40</b><br />
<br />
The main thing you can take away from this game is how poorly the Raiders secondary played. It is clear that it's the one weakness the Raiders will have this year along with inconsistent offensive line play. Saints <b>QB</b> <b>Drew Brees</b> tore the Raiders secondary apart, going after Raider's rookie <b>CB Demarcus Van Dyke </b>occasionally in the first half. The Raiders first team offense was effective and moved the ball effectively. The offensive line opened up holes in the running game and played fairly well in pass protection. The score was 17-10 at half time so that bodes well that the Raiders starters were able to compete with a team that just won the Super Bowl the season before last.<br />
<br />
<br />
Positives:<br />
+<b> WR Derek Hagan</b>: Hagan played like a Pro-Bowler against the Saints and scored the Raiders first TD of the game. He had 7 catches for over 100 yards. Very impressive thus far in preseason and has probably locked up a roster spot.<br />
+ <b>RB Taiwan Jones</b>: 13 carries for 81 yards and 1 TD. Looking to be the playmaker we all thought he would be when drafted in the 4th round. Him and <b>WR Denarius Moore</b> were absolute steals!<br />
+ <b>RB Michael Bush</b>: 5 carries for 32 yards. Had a good game and is excellent in pass protection.<br />
+ <b>QB Jason Campbell</b>: 12-17 for 150 yards and 1 TD. The 1 INT he threw was not his fault because <b>TE Brandon Myers</b> failed to catch it as it bounced off his hands. Injured starter <b>TE Kevin Boss</b> would've caught that ball. Campbell looked sharp and made his reads quickly getting rid of the ball fast. He was very accurate.<br />
+ <b>MLB Rolando McClain</b>: Rolando has already improved in so many areas after just one season in the NFL. He was excellent against the run against the Saints and looked great in coverage, breaking up a couple passes over the middle of the field.<br />
+ <b>CB Stanford Routt</b>: Still has not allowed a reception in preseason. Looked excellent in coverage against the Saints as usual. You can tell he's learned alot playing from with Nnamdi.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
Negatives:<br />
- <b>CB Demarcus Van Dyke</b>: Coverage is not his problem. He's been sticking to his man like glue. The problem is that he's still allowing tons of receptions and doesn't know how to play the ball in the air. Instead of putting his hands up to knock the ball down he continues to run along side WR's in excellent coverage but still lets them get the reception. This is something he can easily learn and work on. But for right now he shouldn't be starting.<br />
- <b>CB Walter McFadden</b>: Why is he not cut yet? The guy is terrible in coverage, can't tackle, and allows a reception every time the ball comes his way. Maybe he can play on special teams but that's it.<br />
- <b>SS Tyvon Branch</b>: Might be the most overrated player on the Raiders. He hasn't improved at all in coverage. Yes, he's a good tackler, but when he allows reception after reception it gets a little frustrating to watch.<br />
- <b>WR Nick Miller</b>: He has been ineffective on both kick returns and punt returns. He won't make the team if he can't contribute there or as a pass catcher. Really has had no impact on any preseason game and his taking a roster spot away from a guy like Derrick Hagan or Denarius Moore.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-9448496040679534472011-08-21T16:38:00.000-07:002011-08-21T16:41:41.616-07:00Post-Game Thoughts On Raiders vs. San Francisco 49ers (Pre-Season Game 2)<b>Oakland Raiders</b> 3 <b>San Francisco 49ers</b> 17<br />
<br />
BATTLE OF THE BAY<br />
<br />
<br />
In a game with poor officiating and atrocious redzone efficiency, the Raiders found themselves on the losing side of a low scoring game. This preseason game was very similar to the Raiders regular season game against the 49ers last year, when the Raiders lost 9 to 17 and failed to get things going defensively. The game was very slow paced in which the 49ers controlled most of the time of possession because they ran the ball successfully.<br />
<br />
<u>Poor Officiating:</u> <br />
The one thing I noticed about this game was all the holding calls that weren't called on the 49ers. Raider offensive linemen were called for holding, but the 49er players were never called for it. If you have a chance to watch the game again, look for 49er <b>LG Mike Iupati, </b>who consistently HELD <b>DT Richard Seymour</b> and other Raider defensive linemen on the first two 49er possessions of the game. He would constantly put his arm across Raider defender chest and hold their shoulder pads. The officials must've been blind because it was very obvious.<br />
<br />
Some other Pass Interference penalties were not called. Raiders rookie <b>CB Sterling Moore</b> tackled a 49er receiver well before the ball got there and it wasn't called. Also, 49er's<b> WR Braylon Edwards</b> pushed off Raider<b> CB Demarcus Van Dyke</b> on a 10 yard comeback route that led to a first down and wasn't called.<br />
<br />
It appears the players aren't the only ones negatively affected by the lockout....the officials also need to do their job better.<br />
<br />
I'm not making excuses though, the Raider defense was awful stopping the run and failed to do so throughout the game. Poor tackling and poor angles by all the Raider defenders led to some long runs for the 49ers.<br />
<br />
<u>PLAYER NOTES:</u><br />
<br />
<b><u>Positives:</u></b><br />
<b>+ WR Denarius Moore</b> again was spectacular. He had 2 catches for 28 yards (back to back completions) and almost returned a kickoff for a TD.<br />
<b>+ Darrius Heyward-Bey</b> looks to be ready for a breakout season. He had another nice game especially making a catch in double coverage downfield.<br />
<b>+ CB Stanford Routt </b>has yet to allow a completion in Preseason. The one pass thrown his way in the game was incomplete. Look for him to continue his strong play into the regular season. I can tell he's learned alot in his time playing with all-pro CB Nnamdi Asomugha.<br />
<b>+ WR Derrick Hagan</b> ran some nice routes and made some nice catches. Likely to make the team with all the Raider injuries.<br />
<b>+ DT Richard Seymour </b>consistently pushed 49er linemen into the backfield and nearly stopped some rushing plays just by himself.<br />
<b>+ QB Jason Campbell</b> made nice passes and had the offense moving until he suffered yet another stinger just like last year's preseason game against the 49ers.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Negatives:</u></b><br />
<b>- CB Walter McFadden </b>sucked yet again. I hope he gets cut.<br />
<b>-</b> <b>OLB Quentin Groves</b> has no business starting for the Raiders. Took horrible angles and missed plenty of tackles. Can we sign Free Agent <b>OLB Lofa Totupu</b> already?<br />
<b>-</b>Pretty much all the backups on both sides of the ball were awful. 2nd team D-Line was awful, and 2nd team O-line couldn't pass protect well.<br />
<b>-QB Trent Edwards and QB Kyle Boller</b> did not play well after coming in for Jason Campbell. They both threw embarrassing interceptions right to defenders. Other than that they weren't too bad, but those interceptions really killed drives.<br />
<b>-Penalties:</b> I gave some blame to the officials, but the Raiders O-line had a bunch of penalties that killed drives. <b>RT Khalif Barnes</b> had two false start penalties...<br />
<b>-Play Calling in the Redzone:</b> We had 1st and goal on the 2 after a nice catch by Darrius Heyward-Bey, and then we call a playaction on 1st down and end up losing a yard. Even though Campbell missed a wide open <b>TE Kevin Boss</b> for a TD, we should've just tried to run it in, because that has always been our strength. And then on 4th and goal from the 3, we come out in a shotgun formation... are you kidding me? Of course that lead to a sack and turnover.<br />
<br />
<br />
Hopefully the Raiders learned alot from this frustrating loss and improve on those aspects for next week's game against the Saints. We need to be in good shape for the 1st week of the season.<br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-23116322748121104212011-08-12T23:27:00.000-07:002011-08-12T23:30:01.889-07:00Post-Game Thoughts On Raiders vs. Arizona Cardinals (Pre-Season Game 1)Oakland Raiders 18- <b>Arizona Cardinals 24</b><br />
<div><b><br />
</b></div><div>Even though the Raiders lost, I was very happy with how the starters played. Offensively, the Offensive Line held up very well and provided Campbell lots of time to throw. Even though the Cardinals don't have any premier pass rushers, the Raider's uncertainty in the O-line is less worrisome after seeing them hold their own in real game situations. There were some noticeable holes in our secondary after the starters left and the youngsters back there need to improve. Overall, how the starters play is what is most important, and I feel the Raider starters outplayed the Cardinal starters.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I will note some positives and negatives I took away from the game.</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Positives:</b></div><div>+ <b>QB Trent Edwards</b> isn't the Raiders starter, but he sure played like it. I was more impressed with Edwards than I was with Campbell. Edwards looked confident, and consistently made quick decisions throwing to the correct receiver in between zones. His biggest play was a beautiful touch pass to rookie <b>TE David Ausberry</b> in the corner of the endzone for a TD. Edwards was 10-19 for 140 yds and 1 TD.</div><div><br />
</div><div>+ Starting <b>QB Jason Campbell </b>was 6-9 for 66 yds on his passes, but I would like to see him make his reads a little quicker. He looked fairly comfortable in the pocket last night and threw a few nice balls.</div><div><br />
</div><div>+ <b>WR Darrius Heyward-Bey</b> caught a pass?? He actually looked somewhat polished on his routes and caught the ball with his HANDS!</div><div><br />
</div><div>+ <b>WR DENARIUS MOORE</b>. This kid is gonna be a superstar and you heard it here first! He's got speed, elusiveness, heart, hops, can catch, and has swagger! He had 3 catches for 37 yards and looked amazing out there (no homo).</div><div><br />
</div><div>+ Our defensive line got tons of pressure on Cardinals QB Kevin Kolb, who was 1-4 for 2 yds when the starters were in.</div><div><br />
</div><div>+ <b>FS Michael Huff, CB Stanford Routt, </b>and <b>CB Chris Johnson</b> looked solid for the limited time they were on the field. Huff got a sack and neither CB allowed a reception.</div><div><br />
</div><div>+ Veteran <b>RB Micheal Bennett</b>: Not sure if he'll make the final roster but he's showing he's still got it.</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Negatives:</b></div><div>- <b>CB Walter McFadden</b> (#22) was <u>AWFUL</u>. If he doesn't improve his play, I honestly expect him to be cut from the team. He was constantly burned for big plays and should've gotten called for 2 Pass Interferences that weren't called. </div><div>- Our <u>O-line didn't open up any huge holes in the running game</u>, I expected a little better but it's only the 1st preseason game so I'm not too worried.</div><div>- <b>OLB Quentin Groves</b> isn't an NFL starter, we need to replace him asap or just wait til next season to improve our D against the run.</div><div>- <b>RB Louis Rankin</b> did not play well which is weird because he has played pretty well in the past few pre-seasons for the Raiders. He fumbled on a crucial play and had a low "yards per carry." </div><div>- Rookie <b>CB Demarcus Van Dyke</b> didn't play that bad because even though he gave up a long catch, he covered Pro Bowl WR Larry Fitzgerald pretty well. However, outside of coverage he is way too skinny. He needs to hit the weight room hard or else he won't be able to tackle anyone in the NFL.</div><div>- <b>RT Khalif Barnes </b>was the only starter who played awful. He was called for 3 false starts and killed a few drives with his dumb play. Hopefully rookie <b>RT Joe Barksdale </b>will be ready to start there by Week 1.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-16694470795970504682011-08-09T15:04:00.000-07:002011-08-09T15:04:38.733-07:00NFL Pre Season Power Rankings1. Green Bay Packers<br />
-Super Bowl Champs should be able to repeat if fully healthy. They won the super bowl with 16 players on the IR. Now that's impressive.<br />
<br />
2. Philadelphia Eagles<br />
-Eagles have the best "Madden" team the history of football. Will they win the superbowl?<br />
<br />
3. New England Patriots<br />
-Tom Brady has a new target in Chad Johnson, expect both these guys to put up big numbers on their way to an AFC Championship.<br />
<br />
4. Pittsburgh Steelers<br />
-One of the most consistent team in the NFL over the past 7 years. It's almost a guarantee that they make the playoffs.<br />
<br />
5. Baltimore Ravens<br />
-Flacco will continue to develop. Reed and Lewis are aging, but still elite.<br />
<br />
6. Atlanta Falcons<br />
-Falcons were superb last year, but I think they overachieved just a little. They will still make the playoff though imo.<br />
<br />
7. Indianapolis Colts<br />
-Peyton Manning<br />
<br />
8. New York Jets<br />
-Solid defense. Were able to resign Cromartie so expect their defense to continue its dominance.<br />
<br />
9. New Orleans Saints<br />
-Lost Reggie Bush, but who cares, they still have Drew Brees and a solid defense.<br />
<br />
10. Chicago Bears<br />
-If Jay Cutler isn't a complete idiot and quitter maybe the Bears will go deep into the playoffs.<br />
<br />
11. Tampa Bay Bucs<br />
-Josh Freeman looks like he's developing into a superstar. The Bucs are a young team, hungry to make the playoffs this year.<br />
<br />
12. New York Giants<br />
-They are becoming an old team and I'm not completely sold on them this year. Wouldn't be surprised if the Cowboys pass them up in the division.<br />
<br />
13. Kansas City Chiefs<br />
-I think the Chiefs were a fluke last season. But until they prove my point, I gotta keep them in the top 15 of my power rankings.<br />
<br />
14. Houston Texans<br />
-This could be the year the Texans finally make the playoffs. Like every year though, the key is Matt Schaub staying healthy. They also upgraded their secondary which was among the worst in the NFL last year.<br />
<br />
15. Dallas Cowboys<br />
<br />
-There's no way they'll have a better record than the Eagles, but they will be fighting the Giants for 2nd place in the division, possible playoff berth as well.<br />
<br />
16. Jacksonville Jaguars<br />
-I still don't think the Jags have done enough to make that playoff push. I see another season around an 8-8 record.<br />
<br />
17. San Diego Chargers<br />
-It's difficult to predict the Chargers. They messed up big time last season, and struggled to win important division games. I don't think the Raiders will sweep them again this year.<br />
<br />
18. St. Louis Rams<br />
-I think the Rams win the NL West. Bradford is developing and they have an improved O-line to open holes for the aging Steven Jackson.<br />
<br />
<b>19. Oakland Raiders</b><br />
-The Raiders lost Nnamdi, Miller, and Gallery, but they won't drop off too far with those losses. They still have the same core group of players and Hue Jackson is the best coach the Raiders have had since Gruden. I expect a 7-9 season. Could win anywhere from 6-9 games.<br />
<br />
20. Miami Dolphins<br />
-With Chad Henne at QB, I can't put them any higher than 20 even if they have a group of talented young players.<br />
<br />
21. Detroit Lions<br />
-The Lions could be a surprise team. If Stafford can stay healthy they could upset alot of teams this year.<br />
<br />
22. Seattle Seahawks<br />
-Won the division going 7-9 last year. That record seems like a strong possibility again this year, but not enough to win the division again.<br />
<br />
23. Cleveland Browns<br />
-All they have on offense is Peyton Hillis. QB Colt McCoy needs some better weapons to pass to.<br />
<br />
24. Arizona Cardinals<br />
-Kevin Kolb needs to prove that he was worth Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a 2nd round pick or else the Cardinals will look foolish for making that trade. I do see a potentially great combo there with Kolb and Fitzgerald though. Could be fun to watch.<br />
<br />
25. San Francisco 49ers<br />
-I really like Colin Kaepernick, but he won't be starting. This is probably Alex Smith's last season to prove himself (should've been gone along time ago).<br />
<br />
26. Tennessee Titans<br />
-Without a solid QB, Chris Johnson will have to do alot of scoring this year if the Titans are to win any games.<br />
<br />
27. Minnesota Vikings<br />
-Adrian Peterson can't do it all by himself. McNabb will have to prove that he's still got it after an awful year with the Redskins.<br />
<br />
28. Buffalo Bills<br />
-Won't be the worst team in the league, but they have a lot of improving to do. Their offense has potential, but their defense will struggle even more with the loss of some key parts.<br />
<br />
29. Carolina Panthers<br />
-Cam Newton isn't ready to win games yet. Still has some maturing to do.<br />
<br />
30. Denver Broncos<br />
-They improved their run defense a little, but they still have the same core as last year. Can't expect much different results.<br />
<br />
31. Cincinnati Bengals<br />
-Bruce Gradkowski will probably start the season until Dalton is ready. The Bengals are in rebuilding mode.<br />
<br />
32. Washington Redskins<br />
-The Redskins have a talented defense. But they don't have a QB and are an aging team. Poor free agent investments have haunted this team for a while now. Andrew Luck should be able to solve all their problems though.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-20991268319141710502011-08-01T23:30:00.000-07:002011-08-07T00:18:18.148-07:00Oakland Raiders Roster Evalation At Each Position! Grades Assigned.After the NFL FA period is over, I will evaluate the Raider's roster at each position and try to predict how they will fair this season.<br />
<br />
This is how I will breakdown the roster. I will assign a letter grade to each area and provide a prediction for our record for the upcoming 2011-2012 season.<br />
<br />
<u>Breakdown:</u><br />
<br />
QB's: C<br />
<br />
Starter <b>Jason Campbell</b> is an average NFL quarterback. Without a solid running game, he will struggle, which was evident last year in his inconsistencies. It might be a while before the Raiders get a game changer, but for now Campbell will be good enough to win games with the Raiders rushing attack in McFadden and Bush.<br />
<br />
RB's/FB: A<br />
<br />
<b>Darren McFadden</b> has proven that he can be an elite NFL running back. Now, he just needs to stay healthy. <b>Michael Bush</b> can also carry the load and tops of the Raider's 2nd best rushing attack in the NFL. FB <b>Marcel Reece</b> is a dynamic player who impacts both the running and passing game in a positive way.<br />
<br />
WR's: C<br />
<br />
The key to the Raiders WR's is <b>Chaz Schillens</b>. If he can stay healthy he can be great in my opinion. He missed many games during the 09 season, and missed 11 games last season with nagging foot and knee problems. Dynamic return man <b>Jacoby Ford</b> is probably the biggest playmaker on the Raiders offense. He pretty much won the overtime game against Kansas City last year with that clutch catch downfield. WR's <b>Darrius Heyward-Bey </b>and<b> Louis Murphy</b> need to continue improving, and rookie WR <b>Denarius Moore</b> looks like a star in the making. The future at WR looks bright, but for right now they're an average core waiting to improve.<br />
<br />
TE: B-<br />
<br />
Losing Pro Bowl TE Zach Miller was a tough loss to swallow, but the Raiders signed the best replacement available form Giant TE <b>Kevin Boss</b>. Boss is an excellent run blocker, but is not as good as Miller is a receiver, so the Raiders will suffer slightly in that regard.<br />
<br />
O-Line: C-<br />
<br />
The Raiders lost LG Robert Gallery to the Seahawks in Free Agency, and that is the one spot on the offensive line that is yet to be replaced with someone worthy. <b>Daniel Loper</b> will probably be a stop gap at LG until a better replacement is found. <b>Jared Veldheer</b> finished strong last season at LT should continue to improve this year at protecting Jason Campbell's blind side. At Center, will be Raiders 2nd round pick <b>Stefen Wisniewski</b>. At RG, there is veteran <b>Cooper Carlisle</b>, who is getting too old to be effective and played below average last year. Another possible starter at RG is <b>Bruce Campbell</b>, who seems to be developing slowly. At RT, I expect rookie <b>Joe Barksdale</b> to takeover for Langston Walker. The Raider offensive line lacks experience, but it is made up of huge maulers that will continue to open up huge holes for McFadden and Bush.<br />
<br />
D-Line: A+<br />
<br />
Led by veteran leader DT <b>Richard Seymour</b>, the Raiders have one of the top defensive lines in the league. Tied for 2nd in league with 47 sacks, the Raiders have plenty of young talent that will soon become elite individual talents. DE <b>Matt Shaughnessy</b>, DE <b>Lamarr Houston</b>, and DE/OLB <b>Kam Wimbley </b>are young guns that will be bringing down opposing QB's for a long time. Along with Seymour, DT <b>Tommy Kelly</b> and DT <b>Jon Henderson</b> are good against the run.<br />
<br />
LB's: B-<br />
<br />
All Raider fans expect <b>Roldando McClain</b> to develop into an elite talent at MLB. Last season he struggled at first but started to understand coverages and sniffing out screen plays better as the season went on. OLB <b>Quentin Groves</b> played okay as a starter but I think its definitely an area that could be improved. <b>Kamerion Wimbley</b> played good as an OLB, but struggled a little in coverage. Wimbley really played well when rushing opposing QB's on 3rd downs. He had 9 sacks last season as an OLB, which is pretty damn good if you ask me.<br />
<br />
CB's: D+<br />
<br />
The Raiders lost CB Nnamdi Asomugha, the best CB in the NFL. He's definitely a difficult player to replace but it will be up to <b>Stanford Routt</b> this season to cover other teams #1 WR's. <b>Chris Johnson</b> will have to regain his 2009 form if the Raiders are to have a good secondary this season. Along with that, some of the young Raider CB's will have to play well, including CB's <b>Walter McFadden, Jeremy Ware, Demarcus Van Dyke, </b>and<b> Chimdi Chekwa</b>. Only time will tell how well the young defensive backs will develop.<br />
<br />
FS/SS: B+<br />
The Raiders are pretty much set at Safety for now, and the future. <b>Michael Huff</b> is finally becoming a ballhawk, and SS <b>Tyvon Branch</b> is a solid tackler but struggles a little in coverage. Watch out for 2nd year player Mike Mitchell to get in on some big plays as well.<br />
<br />
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<b>Special Teams: A+</b><br />
<br />
<b>Shane Lechler</b> is still the best punter in football, and <b>Sebestian Janikowski</b> can still kick the ball 70 yards. Enough said. KR/PR<b> Jacoby Ford</b> had 3 TD's last year and is one of the fastest players in the NFL.<br />
<br />
<b>Offense: C</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
If the Raiders can continue to run the ball, everything will be fine. If Jason Campbell is forced into the role of a playmaker, the Raiders offense will struggle.<br />
<br />
<b>Defense: B</b><br />
The Raiders secondary isn't as good as last year because of the loss of Nnamdi, but the Defensive Lines play will more than make up for it.<br />
----------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: yellow; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Overall Team Grade: C+</span></u></b><br />
<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: yellow; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></u></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>2011 Record Prediction: 7-9 3rd in Division</u></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><u>Projected Starting Lineup:</u></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">QB: Jason Campbell</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">RB: Darren McFadden/ Michael Bush</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">FB: Marcel Reece</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">WR: Chaz Schillens, Jacoby Ford, Denarius Moore</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">WR: Louis Murphy, Darrius Heyward-Bey</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">TE: Kevin Boss</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">LT: Jared Veldheer</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">LG: Daniel Loper</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">C: Stefen Wisniewksi</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">RG: Cooper Carlisle</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">RT: Joseph Barksdale</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">DE: Matt Shaughnessy</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">DT: Richard Seymour</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">DT: Tommy Kelly</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">DE: Lamarr Houston</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">OLB: Kameron Wimbley</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">MLB: Ronaldo McClain</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">OLB: Quentin Groves</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">CB: Stanford Routt, Walter McFadden, </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">CB: Chris Johnson, Demarcus Van Dyke, Jeremy Ware</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">FS: Michael Huff</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">SS: Tyvon Branch, Mike Mitchell</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">P: Shane Lechler</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">K: Sebastian Janikowski</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">KR: Jacoby Ford</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">PR: Jacoby Ford</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-679521776000586262011-08-01T01:37:00.000-07:002011-08-01T01:49:54.680-07:00Injuries and Poor Infield Limited Oakland A's Success in 1st Half Of Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/oakland_athletics_771001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/oakland_athletics_771001.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"></div><br />
<br />
Yet again the Oakland A's season has been diminished by injuries. These injuries always seem to happen in the first half of the season. That might be why the A's always play better after the All-Star break.<br />
<br />
Did you know: "since 2007, The Oakland Athletics have used the disabled list 87 times??"-<b>Bleacherreport.com</b><br />
<br />
The A's Pitchers who are currently or have been on the disabled list include:<br />
SP: Brett Anderson (currently on 60 Day DL)<br />
SP: Dallas Braden (currently on 60 Day DL)<br />
SP: Tyson Ross (recently activated and sent to AAA)<br />
SP: Josh Outman (recently activated and sent to AAA)<br />
RP: Grant Balfour (recently activated from 15 Day DL)<br />
SP: Brandon McCarthy (activated from DL 2 weeks ago)<br />
SP: Rich Harden (He is ALWAYS injured!!!)<br />
Closer: Andrew Bailey (Is now finally healthy after missing first half of season)<br />
<br />
So yea.... you get the point.<br />
<br />
It's extremely difficult to win consistently when half of the pitchers on the team are constantly getting injured. <b>Brett Anderson, Dallas Braden,</b> and<b> Josh Outman</b> all had to undergo "Tommy John Surgery" which might have a negative impact on their respective futures. Anderson and Braden are not expected to return this season.<br />
<br />
If the A's are to experience another playoff run soon, they need ALL of their star pitchers to be healthy, because they don't have the consistent run support needed to compete with other teams.<br />
<br />
Along with the injured pitching staff, many of the A's position players were placed on the disabled list at one point or more this year, including: <b>OF Coco Crispo, OF Josh Willingham, OF Ryan Sweeney, OF Conor Jackson, 1B Daric Barton, </b>and <b>OF David Dejesus</b>.... the list goes on. You can clearly see that the A's are using the disabled list way too often.<br />
<br />
Combine all of these injuries with poor performance from infielders (<b>3B Kevin Kouzmanoff, 2B Mark Ellis, </b>and<b> 1B Daric Barton</b>) in the first half of the season, and you get an A's team that struggled to score runs. <b>SS Cliff Pennington</b> is the only opening day infielder that performed well enough to still remain with the team.<br />
<br />
<u><b>SECOND HALF SUCCESS (POST- ALL STAR BREAK)</b></u><br />
<br />
The replacements at 1B, 2B, and 3B are the reason the A's are scoring more runs recently and winning games. <b>Conor Jackson</b> has taken over at 1B, Rookie phenom <b>Jamile Weeks</b> is now at 2B, and surprise <b>Scott Seizemore</b> has been hitting very well at 3B. However, the biggest impact recently has come from the A's designated hitter (DH).<br />
<br />
After the All Star Break, <b> DH Hideki Matsui</b> is one the hottest hitting players in the MLB. Since the All-Star Break, he has a <u>batting average of .466</u>!! Is this real life??? By far it is the highest average in baseball since the break. He also leads the AL in RBI's post all star break with 18.<br />
<br />
Matsui is not the only player to prove his worth after the All Star Break though, because 5 other players on the A's are hitting over .300 (who also have over 50 At Bats) in the same time frame as Matsui. Hmmm so that explains all the runs scored recently.....<br />
<br />
Today the Oakland A's set a franchise record of 8+ hits in 16 straight games. I was lucky enough to witness one of these games in person!<br />
<br />
The first half of the season, it was rare to see the A's score more than 3 runs. Now, it has become a enjoyable frequent occurrence!<br />
<br />
Anyways, the point of this article is to show that if the A's had the lineup they have now, in the beginning of the season, and a healthy starting rotation, they would be challenging for the AL West title... not sitting at the bottom of the standings with the 8th worst record in baseball.<br />
<br />
****Any statistics stated were found through MLB.comUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3992995585449800109.post-22625702696131576042011-07-30T20:38:00.000-07:002011-08-01T01:41:34.107-07:00Raiders yet to make a splash in FA, Good thing or Bad thing?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.ocweekly.com/navelgazing/oakland-raiders-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://blogs.ocweekly.com/navelgazing/oakland-raiders-logo.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><br />
For all you Raider fans out there, this has been the most boring free agency period in recent memory for Al Davis. Not only was it boring, but we lost our best player in <b>CB</b> <b>Nnamdi Asomugha</b> who agreed to a 5 year deal yesterday with the Philadelphia Eagles. No notable Free Agency signings have been made, unless you consider <b>QB</b> <b>Trent Edwards</b> a significant addition to the team. Ha! The Raiders brought in former Pro Bowl <b>LT Jared Gaither </b>to possibly sign but he didn't pass a physical. If Jared Gaither was healthy, he could've been our franchise Left Tackle. Instead, the Raiders resigned Khalif Barnes... *Facepalm* Again, no notable Free Agency signings have occurred.<br />
<br />
Is it really a bad thing though? For once, the Raiders didn't over pursue and go after some washed up player like <b>WR Javon Walker</b>, or some player that doesn't fit our system such as <b>CB</b> <b>DeAngelo Hall</b>. Both are players who the Raiders invested loads of money in and got nothing in return. For once, Al Davis might be sitting back, waiting to play his cards right, instead of being over aggressive.<br />
<br />
That being said, I really hope the Raiders can sign some quality players soon. With Nnamdi gone, we lack a shutdown corner (hopefully <b>Stanford Routt</b> proves me wrong). We also lack experience on our Offensive Line with the loss of <b>LG</b> <b>Robert Gallery </b>as well as the decline of <b>C Samson Satele </b>and<b> RG Cooper Carlisle.</b> If we were to start the season today, our offensive line aside from <b>RG Cooper Carlisle</b> would have a combined total of under 16 games started. An inexperienced O-Line could be disastrous.<br />
<br />
Here is our OL in training camp:<br />
LT Jered Veldheer, LG Daniel Loper, C Stefen Wisneiwski, RG Cooper Carlisle, RT Joseph Barksdale<br />
<br />
<br />
Other News:<br />
<br />
<b>FS Michael Huff </b>supposedly wants to resign, but for right now we are attempting to move <b>Tyvon Branch</b> to FS and 2nd year player <b>Mike Mitchell </b>will take over SS. If Huff resigns then our secondary will be in good shape if we can bring in a FA CB. I don't know about you guys, but I'm not comfortable with Stanford Routt as our #1 CB (even if he is getting paid like one). If Huff isn't brought back, I think we will be able to stop the run better because Huff gave up a lot of long runs last year whereas Branch is one of our better tacklers.<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">On a side note: We need to resign <b>TE Zach Miller</b>, our best receiver and most efficient offensive player.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>Free Agent Rumors</b>:</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Former New York Jets <b>CB Antonio Cromartie</b> has been linked to the Oakland Raiders but other than that there is no other CB that the Raiders have been rumored to pursue.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1