As we have approached that time of year between the draft and training camp, one thing is pretty clear: NFL football can't come soon enough. Before the pads come on and the injury reports start trickling in, though, let's take a look around the streaming jukebox that is YouTube for some golden picks 4 Brett Favre White jersey
-- with a red trim, that is. Terrell Owens becomes "T.O.":The nickname "T.O." doesn't bring a lot of warm and fuzzy memories to most 49ers fans, but this would have to be one of them. Down by four points with eight seconds remaining, it was all or nothing for the Niners in a playoff game against the then-powerhouse Green Bay Packers. Fans were captivated by Steve Young's marksman-like 25-yard bomb to the once-humble receiver, who evaded triple coverage to catch the game-winning touchdown and clutch it in the end zone in fetal position -- a star was born.49ers Draft Day Party- Draft V. Davis Reaction:You've gotta love team spirit. And you'll find plenty of that in this clip, which documents a room full of Niners fans anxiously waiting to reap the fruits of the 4-12 season that proceeded it. When the offensively challenged franchise announces the selection of Vernon Davis -- the freakishly talented tight end out of Maryland -- at 1:08, the room erupts with an electric jubilation that will give any self-respecting 49ers fan a case of goose bumps. 49ers Training Video:You all remember this -- the controversial spoof video made for the players that found its way into the hands of the media. In it, former public relations director Kirk Reynolds played mayor for a day, recanting the team's politically correct policies while engaging in some very politically incorrect behavior simultaneously. In this snippet, we see him talking about protocol around female reporters using some sleazy strippers as props. Needless to say, the jokes went over like a lead balloon and ultimately cost Reynolds his job. We are the 49ers:This campy yet clever parody of Billy Joel's "We didn't start the fire" is an amusing look back in the storied history of6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
the franchise. The song is accompanied by a slideshow showing some of the greatest imagery of the team dating back to the days of leather helmets. Be careful, though, you might get this stuck in your head. Fantasy Football is right around the corner. Make sure to check out our fantasy & news updates on the upper right-hand corner of the homepage
2010年12月9日星期四
2010年12月2日星期四
Dallas Cowboys Terrell Owens Philadelphia Eagles Donovan McNabb
When the Dallas Cowboys play the Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday, it will be a difficult game for the Cowboys to win. The Philadelphia crowd will be in a frenzy, and be more hostile than any crowd the Cowboys have encountered in a long time. But even more of a factor than an unfriendly atmosphere is that, due to Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
Donovan McNabb's utter contempt for Terrell Owens, he probably wants to win this game more than any other he has ever played in - including the Super Bowl. This could be a problem. This past Monday night against the weak Green Bay Packers, early in the game, McNabb stayed in the pocket and often threw the ball short of his receivers. But then, the ex-Syracuse standout started to make things happen with his legs. Not only did he pick up a couple of key first downs and a pair of scores, but his passing got a lot better, too. When McNabb runs, it appears to trigger something in him that improves his total performance. "I decided to go back to my style of play," McNabb said, "and if the opportunity is there, take full advantage."And while McNabb can't throw caution to the wind for 16 games anymore, you can take it to the bank that he'll do whatever it takes to beat T.O.'s Cowboys. So how can the Dallas Cowboys contain McNabb?They should rush three players, keep a spy on him at all times, and keep the linebackers in the middle of the field more often than not. As a result, the 'D' won't overpursue, which will not only keep McNabb from running, but it will be easier to contain Brian Westbrook as well. One reason that this strategy has merit is because the Cowboys' secondary is good enough to contain a beat-up Eagles receiving corps. (Donte' Stallworth's and Reggie Brown's status are unknown at this point.)That's not to say the Cowboys should never send more rushers after McNabb. They should just pick and choose their spots. Because a long scamper might be the fuel that starts McNabb's fire. And why wake up a sleeping dog? Get the hottest Dallas Cowboys insight (18) Are you ready for some football?If you can't take one more minute of Terrell Owens coverage, you're in the right place. The Dallas Cowboys travel to Nashville to take on the Tennessee Titans this Sunday. Even though the Cowboys are a big favorite, anything can happen. So here are three offensive and defensive strategies that should ensure that the Cowboys get on a return flight to Dallas on Sunday night with a 2-1 record. OFFENSE:1. Run the ball down the Titans' throats: Tennessee is giving up an average of 163 yards a game on the ground. Heck, even the Jets, who have a feeble running attack, gained close to 100 yards. So give Julius Jones the ball early and often, and let him do his stuff. 2. Watch the dog and blitz:Tennessee frequently dogged and blitzed the Miami Dolphins last week. On obvious passing downs, the Cowboys might be well-served to throw some short screens or quick slants. A couple of early play-action passes might also keep the Titans back on their heels. 3. Cash in on early opportunities: The last thing the Cowboys need is for this game to be up for grabs in the fourth quarter. They should go for the jugular from the start. If the Cowboys can jump out to a 10- or 14-point lead, the Titans will start to doubt themselves and will probably not come back. But should Dallas let them hang around, they may start to believe that they can win, which is half the battle. As Yogi Berra said: "Ninety percent of the game is half mental."DEFENSE:1. Get to Kerry Collins:Collins has a good arm and if he has time to get comfortable in the pocket, he can be effective. But knock him on his butt a couple of times and it's a totally different story. With that in mind, early in the game, Dallas should send the kitchen sink after Collins to rattle him. After that, just the thought of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
an aggressive pass rush should get him to panic and throw bad passes. 2. Don't fear Vince Young:At this point in his career, Young can't hurt the Cowboys with his passing ability. So, if he lines up behind center, the Cowboys' D should defend him exactly like the New Orleans Saints played Michael Vick on Monday night: Don't overpursue; make him stay in the pocket. 3. Watch for trickery: From a talent standpoint, the Titans are no match for Dallas, and Jeff Fisher knows it. So the Cowboys should be wary of fake punts, fake field goals, flea flickers, reverses and any other trick that's humanly possible. Remember, Fisher called for the famous game-winning Frank Wycheck lateral against the Buffalo Bills in the 2000 playoffs, so we know chicanery is in Fisher's repertoire. Get the best Dallas Cowboys analysis (4)
Donovan McNabb's utter contempt for Terrell Owens, he probably wants to win this game more than any other he has ever played in - including the Super Bowl. This could be a problem. This past Monday night against the weak Green Bay Packers, early in the game, McNabb stayed in the pocket and often threw the ball short of his receivers. But then, the ex-Syracuse standout started to make things happen with his legs. Not only did he pick up a couple of key first downs and a pair of scores, but his passing got a lot better, too. When McNabb runs, it appears to trigger something in him that improves his total performance. "I decided to go back to my style of play," McNabb said, "and if the opportunity is there, take full advantage."And while McNabb can't throw caution to the wind for 16 games anymore, you can take it to the bank that he'll do whatever it takes to beat T.O.'s Cowboys. So how can the Dallas Cowboys contain McNabb?They should rush three players, keep a spy on him at all times, and keep the linebackers in the middle of the field more often than not. As a result, the 'D' won't overpursue, which will not only keep McNabb from running, but it will be easier to contain Brian Westbrook as well. One reason that this strategy has merit is because the Cowboys' secondary is good enough to contain a beat-up Eagles receiving corps. (Donte' Stallworth's and Reggie Brown's status are unknown at this point.)That's not to say the Cowboys should never send more rushers after McNabb. They should just pick and choose their spots. Because a long scamper might be the fuel that starts McNabb's fire. And why wake up a sleeping dog? Get the hottest Dallas Cowboys insight (18) Are you ready for some football?If you can't take one more minute of Terrell Owens coverage, you're in the right place. The Dallas Cowboys travel to Nashville to take on the Tennessee Titans this Sunday. Even though the Cowboys are a big favorite, anything can happen. So here are three offensive and defensive strategies that should ensure that the Cowboys get on a return flight to Dallas on Sunday night with a 2-1 record. OFFENSE:1. Run the ball down the Titans' throats: Tennessee is giving up an average of 163 yards a game on the ground. Heck, even the Jets, who have a feeble running attack, gained close to 100 yards. So give Julius Jones the ball early and often, and let him do his stuff. 2. Watch the dog and blitz:Tennessee frequently dogged and blitzed the Miami Dolphins last week. On obvious passing downs, the Cowboys might be well-served to throw some short screens or quick slants. A couple of early play-action passes might also keep the Titans back on their heels. 3. Cash in on early opportunities: The last thing the Cowboys need is for this game to be up for grabs in the fourth quarter. They should go for the jugular from the start. If the Cowboys can jump out to a 10- or 14-point lead, the Titans will start to doubt themselves and will probably not come back. But should Dallas let them hang around, they may start to believe that they can win, which is half the battle. As Yogi Berra said: "Ninety percent of the game is half mental."DEFENSE:1. Get to Kerry Collins:Collins has a good arm and if he has time to get comfortable in the pocket, he can be effective. But knock him on his butt a couple of times and it's a totally different story. With that in mind, early in the game, Dallas should send the kitchen sink after Collins to rattle him. After that, just the thought of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
an aggressive pass rush should get him to panic and throw bad passes. 2. Don't fear Vince Young:At this point in his career, Young can't hurt the Cowboys with his passing ability. So, if he lines up behind center, the Cowboys' D should defend him exactly like the New Orleans Saints played Michael Vick on Monday night: Don't overpursue; make him stay in the pocket. 3. Watch for trickery: From a talent standpoint, the Titans are no match for Dallas, and Jeff Fisher knows it. So the Cowboys should be wary of fake punts, fake field goals, flea flickers, reverses and any other trick that's humanly possible. Remember, Fisher called for the famous game-winning Frank Wycheck lateral against the Buffalo Bills in the 2000 playoffs, so we know chicanery is in Fisher's repertoire. Get the best Dallas Cowboys analysis (4)
Art Shell Comments on Tom Walsh
The have taken the notion of loyalty to an all-new level this season.Loyalty, that is, in all the wrong places and at all the wrong times.Al Davis showed his allegiance to Art Shell this past offseason by re-hiring the long-removed coach to take over his struggling ballclub. In turn, Shell pledged his fidelity to Tom Walsh.Now 10 4 Brett Favre White jersey
weeks into the 2006 campaign, the Raiders are in utter disarray, becoming the laughingstock of the NFL.Still, the triangle of trust remains nauseatingly intact, despite no visible proof of improvement or control.Davis won't touch Shell, which in turn safeguards his friend, Walsh.While, underneath it all, the players stand voiceless.And that's the problem.The first sign of the Shell tyranny began early in the offseason, when wide receiver Jerry Porter detected the first signs of the downward spiral ahead. Porter, who dropped 23 pounds during the summer in preparation of the upcoming season, was benched for the first four games of the year after an altercation in Shell's office.In late July, Shell commented on the Porter situation, saying, "You can't have inmates running the asylum...not under me, and 99.9 percent of the players here feel that way. They want direction."Not quite.Defensive players Warren Sapp and Jarrod Cooper have already publicly supported Porter; Randy Moss has remained unhappy throughout the entire season; running back LaMont Jordan questioned the team's offensive game plan after a shutout loss at Seattle; free safety Stuart Schweigert spoke out about his unproductive offense after Sunday's loss to Denver; and, now, quarterback Andrew Walter has joined the club."We need to make [the playbook] more complex," Walter said on Sunday. "I'd like more swing routes, flat routes, short stuff. There are certain things I'd like to see."Instead of sitting down with his 24-year-old quarterback and finding a middle ground, Shell stood resolutely on the side of his hopeless coordinator."When you speak out, you need to know what you're talking about when you make those statements," Shell commented. "You can speak out; I've said that before. Guys are capable of speaking out, but when you start going out and you start airing your laundry in public, then you've got to have some accountability for that, too.""Accountability" has become a preferred word for Shell this season. Thus far, the word has been applied to virtually every member of the team -- except himself and his buddy, of course. According to Shell, Walsh is yet to cost the team a single game, despite coordinating the NFL's worst offense.Even I, who tried to cut Walsh some slack after Sunday's loss to the Broncos, have had trouble defending the coordinator for more than 24 hours. After writing yesterday, "For the first time of the '06 season, even the artless Tom Walsh is free from blame," I received a stream of feedback. Among the most recurrent responses was, "Did Mr. Walsh offer you free pancakes for life to write that?"I wish. But, apparently, he has made that same offer to Shell, and he accepted.Shell added to the Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
Walsh-defense on Monday, saying, "To start making statements about what's in and what's not in, then you need to take a hard look at what's there. Obviously, I don't want to get into a contest with a young man."Perhaps because you would lose.Want to be in the Raiders mailbag? Visit RaidersLive.com to submit your questions and comments for the Nov. 17 mailbag. . (52)
weeks into the 2006 campaign, the Raiders are in utter disarray, becoming the laughingstock of the NFL.Still, the triangle of trust remains nauseatingly intact, despite no visible proof of improvement or control.Davis won't touch Shell, which in turn safeguards his friend, Walsh.While, underneath it all, the players stand voiceless.And that's the problem.The first sign of the Shell tyranny began early in the offseason, when wide receiver Jerry Porter detected the first signs of the downward spiral ahead. Porter, who dropped 23 pounds during the summer in preparation of the upcoming season, was benched for the first four games of the year after an altercation in Shell's office.In late July, Shell commented on the Porter situation, saying, "You can't have inmates running the asylum...not under me, and 99.9 percent of the players here feel that way. They want direction."Not quite.Defensive players Warren Sapp and Jarrod Cooper have already publicly supported Porter; Randy Moss has remained unhappy throughout the entire season; running back LaMont Jordan questioned the team's offensive game plan after a shutout loss at Seattle; free safety Stuart Schweigert spoke out about his unproductive offense after Sunday's loss to Denver; and, now, quarterback Andrew Walter has joined the club."We need to make [the playbook] more complex," Walter said on Sunday. "I'd like more swing routes, flat routes, short stuff. There are certain things I'd like to see."Instead of sitting down with his 24-year-old quarterback and finding a middle ground, Shell stood resolutely on the side of his hopeless coordinator."When you speak out, you need to know what you're talking about when you make those statements," Shell commented. "You can speak out; I've said that before. Guys are capable of speaking out, but when you start going out and you start airing your laundry in public, then you've got to have some accountability for that, too.""Accountability" has become a preferred word for Shell this season. Thus far, the word has been applied to virtually every member of the team -- except himself and his buddy, of course. According to Shell, Walsh is yet to cost the team a single game, despite coordinating the NFL's worst offense.Even I, who tried to cut Walsh some slack after Sunday's loss to the Broncos, have had trouble defending the coordinator for more than 24 hours. After writing yesterday, "For the first time of the '06 season, even the artless Tom Walsh is free from blame," I received a stream of feedback. Among the most recurrent responses was, "Did Mr. Walsh offer you free pancakes for life to write that?"I wish. But, apparently, he has made that same offer to Shell, and he accepted.Shell added to the Steelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
Walsh-defense on Monday, saying, "To start making statements about what's in and what's not in, then you need to take a hard look at what's there. Obviously, I don't want to get into a contest with a young man."Perhaps because you would lose.Want to be in the Raiders mailbag? Visit RaidersLive.com to submit your questions and comments for the Nov. 17 mailbag. . (52)
2010年12月1日星期三
Seattle Seahawks MNF Recap Tom Walsh
Two weeks ago, two unnamed opposing defenders of the referred to Tom Walsh's offensive game plan as "high school stuff."Don't flatter the man.Just a week after the Raiders netted 98 offensive yards in a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team followed up with an equally dismal outing.In Monday night's shutout loss to the Seattle Seahawks, Oakland's offense registered just 185 total yards, 44 of which came on the team's final drive with just 1:17 remaining. On the night, the Raiders' longest drive covered just 53 yards, while 10 of43 Polamalu black jersey
the team's 12 legitimate offensive drives accounted for less than 25 yards before punting.Just prior to Monday night's embarrassment, quarterback Andrew Walter was asked to identify the team's problems on the offensive side of the ball."If I had to pinpoint it, I would say it's a lot of different areas," Walter said. "And, is that general? Yes, that's a very general answer, but it's the truth. It's not one person; it's not one area of the offense. We're talking about O-line, running backs, tight ends, quarterback and wide receivers. I'd say it's a lot of us."Add one inept offensive coordinator into the mix and call it complete.Walsh called just four designed running plays in the entire first half, opting to put the game on the shoulders of his inexperienced, struggling quarterback.Other factors that Walsh ignored include: there was a torrential downpour and 20-plus mph winds; starting running back LaMont Jordan had returned from injury; the offensive line had allowed a league-high 35 sacks heading into the game; and the wide receivers have had trouble holding onto the ball all season.The result of the pass-happy offensive scheme was zero points, 10 punts, nine sacks, a 45.7 completion percentage and a 20 percent third-down conversion rate.Art Shell, on his last leg, tried to defend the decision-making of his longtime friend following the game."You get into a rhythm and then you try not to run all the time," he said. "You want to come in with the pass."On the evening, the Raiders finished with just 13 rushes; however, the running game accounted for 64 of the offense's 185 total yards. Through the air, Walter averaged just 2.8 yards per pass on a whopping 35 attempts. On the ground, though, Jordan averaged seven yards per carry; however, he was allowed just nine attempts on the game -- just over two a quarter."I know there's a lot of factors that go into an offense, that go into a team," Walter said on Monday. "And I know it's never on one person."With that in mind, Walsh isn't alone. The offensive line allowed nine sacks; the receivers couldn't hold onto the ball; and Walter consistently hesitated in the pocket.Perhaps the most bewildering gaffe of Monday's 16-0 loss, however, was Walsh's play call on third-and-1 with just under nine minutes remaining in the third quarter. Following a 10-yard LaMont Jordan rush on second-and-11, the offense lined up deep in a shotgun formation on its own 42-yard line. Instead of calling a simple run, Walter attempted a short 4 Brett Favre White jersey
throw to Jordan. The pass fell incomplete and the Raiders punted for the seventh consecutive time.Prior to the season, it was Walsh who so vehemently stated, "It's downhill running, it's power football. We're not lateral-stepping."At this point, simply "lateral-stepping" would be a good start for the inept coordinator.Want to be in the Raiders mailbag? Visit RaidersLive.com to submit your questions and comments for the Nov. 17 mailbag. (49)
the team's 12 legitimate offensive drives accounted for less than 25 yards before punting.Just prior to Monday night's embarrassment, quarterback Andrew Walter was asked to identify the team's problems on the offensive side of the ball."If I had to pinpoint it, I would say it's a lot of different areas," Walter said. "And, is that general? Yes, that's a very general answer, but it's the truth. It's not one person; it's not one area of the offense. We're talking about O-line, running backs, tight ends, quarterback and wide receivers. I'd say it's a lot of us."Add one inept offensive coordinator into the mix and call it complete.Walsh called just four designed running plays in the entire first half, opting to put the game on the shoulders of his inexperienced, struggling quarterback.Other factors that Walsh ignored include: there was a torrential downpour and 20-plus mph winds; starting running back LaMont Jordan had returned from injury; the offensive line had allowed a league-high 35 sacks heading into the game; and the wide receivers have had trouble holding onto the ball all season.The result of the pass-happy offensive scheme was zero points, 10 punts, nine sacks, a 45.7 completion percentage and a 20 percent third-down conversion rate.Art Shell, on his last leg, tried to defend the decision-making of his longtime friend following the game."You get into a rhythm and then you try not to run all the time," he said. "You want to come in with the pass."On the evening, the Raiders finished with just 13 rushes; however, the running game accounted for 64 of the offense's 185 total yards. Through the air, Walter averaged just 2.8 yards per pass on a whopping 35 attempts. On the ground, though, Jordan averaged seven yards per carry; however, he was allowed just nine attempts on the game -- just over two a quarter."I know there's a lot of factors that go into an offense, that go into a team," Walter said on Monday. "And I know it's never on one person."With that in mind, Walsh isn't alone. The offensive line allowed nine sacks; the receivers couldn't hold onto the ball; and Walter consistently hesitated in the pocket.Perhaps the most bewildering gaffe of Monday's 16-0 loss, however, was Walsh's play call on third-and-1 with just under nine minutes remaining in the third quarter. Following a 10-yard LaMont Jordan rush on second-and-11, the offense lined up deep in a shotgun formation on its own 42-yard line. Instead of calling a simple run, Walter attempted a short 4 Brett Favre White jersey
throw to Jordan. The pass fell incomplete and the Raiders punted for the seventh consecutive time.Prior to the season, it was Walsh who so vehemently stated, "It's downhill running, it's power football. We're not lateral-stepping."At this point, simply "lateral-stepping" would be a good start for the inept coordinator.Want to be in the Raiders mailbag? Visit RaidersLive.com to submit your questions and comments for the Nov. 17 mailbag. (49)
LaMont Jordan Justin Fargas "Rushing Duo"
The idea seems almost laughable, when you consider that the currently sit at 1-5 and have a total of two rushing touchdowns through six games. Yet the duo of LaMont Jordan and Justin Fargas is, in fact, one of the more productive running back tandems in the NFL.What's ironic is that Jordan 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
was expected to once again be the workhorse, after getting the majority of the team's snaps in 2005. Meanwhile, the oft-injured Fargas was considered more of an afterthought. On the contrary, Fargas has become a key cog in the Raiders' rushing attack, even getting the bulk of the carries llast week in place of an injured Jordan. These extensive reps have allowed Fargas to establish himself as an effective runner, and have given Oakland a much-needed injection of speed in the backfield. And as a result, the Raiders now possess a well-balanced ground attack.Don't believe me? Consider that Oakland is now ranked 10th overall in rushing offense. And despite a horrid start overall for the offense as a whole, Jordan and Fargas are on pace to combine for over 1,400 yards and roughly 4.5 yards per carry. In Week 4 against the Browns, the pair rushed for a staggering 182 yards. They followed up that performance with a 134-yard effort against the 49ers. Finally, in Week 6, the Broncos put a stop to Oakland's rushing bonanza. Then again, they seem to do that to every team they play.Regardless, the duo does have one major Achilles' heel that keeps it from achieving true elite status -- the inability to get into the end zone. Combined, the two backs have just one rushing touchdown between them. That's simply unacceptable in a league where most teams have four rushing touchdowns or more. And, unfortunately, the Raiders are likely to continue to struggle to cross the goal line on the ground in Week 8. They are up against a Pittsburgh defense that is currently ranked ninth in the league against the run, allowing only 94.2 yards per game and having given up only four rushing TDs in six contests.Jordan has not fully recovered from a lingering back injury, 43 Polamalu white jersey
and Fargas does not appear to be the type of back capable of grinding down a spectacularly physical Steelers defensive front. However, if this unlikely duo is to take the next step toward legitimacy, these are the kinds of games where the pair must find ways to make an impact.And the last time I checked, rumbling into the end zone for a score is the best way to do that.Daily analysis, courtesy of Anthony Carroll returns Monday. (23)
was expected to once again be the workhorse, after getting the majority of the team's snaps in 2005. Meanwhile, the oft-injured Fargas was considered more of an afterthought. On the contrary, Fargas has become a key cog in the Raiders' rushing attack, even getting the bulk of the carries llast week in place of an injured Jordan. These extensive reps have allowed Fargas to establish himself as an effective runner, and have given Oakland a much-needed injection of speed in the backfield. And as a result, the Raiders now possess a well-balanced ground attack.Don't believe me? Consider that Oakland is now ranked 10th overall in rushing offense. And despite a horrid start overall for the offense as a whole, Jordan and Fargas are on pace to combine for over 1,400 yards and roughly 4.5 yards per carry. In Week 4 against the Browns, the pair rushed for a staggering 182 yards. They followed up that performance with a 134-yard effort against the 49ers. Finally, in Week 6, the Broncos put a stop to Oakland's rushing bonanza. Then again, they seem to do that to every team they play.Regardless, the duo does have one major Achilles' heel that keeps it from achieving true elite status -- the inability to get into the end zone. Combined, the two backs have just one rushing touchdown between them. That's simply unacceptable in a league where most teams have four rushing touchdowns or more. And, unfortunately, the Raiders are likely to continue to struggle to cross the goal line on the ground in Week 8. They are up against a Pittsburgh defense that is currently ranked ninth in the league against the run, allowing only 94.2 yards per game and having given up only four rushing TDs in six contests.Jordan has not fully recovered from a lingering back injury, 43 Polamalu white jersey
and Fargas does not appear to be the type of back capable of grinding down a spectacularly physical Steelers defensive front. However, if this unlikely duo is to take the next step toward legitimacy, these are the kinds of games where the pair must find ways to make an impact.And the last time I checked, rumbling into the end zone for a score is the best way to do that.Daily analysis, courtesy of Anthony Carroll returns Monday. (23)
LaMont Jordan Justin Fargas "Rushing Duo"
The idea seems almost laughable, when you consider that the currently sit at 1-5 and have a total of two rushing touchdowns through six games. Yet the duo of LaMont Jordan and Justin Fargas is, in fact, one of the more productive running back tandems in the NFL.What's ironic is that Jordan 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
was expected to once again be the workhorse, after getting the majority of the team's snaps in 2005. Meanwhile, the oft-injured Fargas was considered more of an afterthought. On the contrary, Fargas has become a key cog in the Raiders' rushing attack, even getting the bulk of the carries llast week in place of an injured Jordan. These extensive reps have allowed Fargas to establish himself as an effective runner, and have given Oakland a much-needed injection of speed in the backfield. And as a result, the Raiders now possess a well-balanced ground attack.Don't believe me? Consider that Oakland is now ranked 10th overall in rushing offense. And despite a horrid start overall for the offense as a whole, Jordan and Fargas are on pace to combine for over 1,400 yards and roughly 4.5 yards per carry. In Week 4 against the Browns, the pair rushed for a staggering 182 yards. They followed up that performance with a 134-yard effort against the 49ers. Finally, in Week 6, the Broncos put a stop to Oakland's rushing bonanza. Then again, they seem to do that to every team they play.Regardless, the duo does have one major Achilles' heel that keeps it from achieving true elite status -- the inability to get into the end zone. Combined, the two backs have just one rushing touchdown between them. That's simply unacceptable in a league where most teams have four rushing touchdowns or more. And, unfortunately, the Raiders are likely to continue to struggle to cross the goal line on the ground in Week 8. They are up against a Pittsburgh defense that is currently ranked ninth in the league against the run, allowing only 94.2 yards per game and having given up only four rushing TDs in six contests.Jordan has not fully recovered from a lingering back injury, 43 Polamalu white jersey
and Fargas does not appear to be the type of back capable of grinding down a spectacularly physical Steelers defensive front. However, if this unlikely duo is to take the next step toward legitimacy, these are the kinds of games where the pair must find ways to make an impact.And the last time I checked, rumbling into the end zone for a score is the best way to do that.Daily analysis, courtesy of Anthony Carroll returns Monday. (23)
was expected to once again be the workhorse, after getting the majority of the team's snaps in 2005. Meanwhile, the oft-injured Fargas was considered more of an afterthought. On the contrary, Fargas has become a key cog in the Raiders' rushing attack, even getting the bulk of the carries llast week in place of an injured Jordan. These extensive reps have allowed Fargas to establish himself as an effective runner, and have given Oakland a much-needed injection of speed in the backfield. And as a result, the Raiders now possess a well-balanced ground attack.Don't believe me? Consider that Oakland is now ranked 10th overall in rushing offense. And despite a horrid start overall for the offense as a whole, Jordan and Fargas are on pace to combine for over 1,400 yards and roughly 4.5 yards per carry. In Week 4 against the Browns, the pair rushed for a staggering 182 yards. They followed up that performance with a 134-yard effort against the 49ers. Finally, in Week 6, the Broncos put a stop to Oakland's rushing bonanza. Then again, they seem to do that to every team they play.Regardless, the duo does have one major Achilles' heel that keeps it from achieving true elite status -- the inability to get into the end zone. Combined, the two backs have just one rushing touchdown between them. That's simply unacceptable in a league where most teams have four rushing touchdowns or more. And, unfortunately, the Raiders are likely to continue to struggle to cross the goal line on the ground in Week 8. They are up against a Pittsburgh defense that is currently ranked ninth in the league against the run, allowing only 94.2 yards per game and having given up only four rushing TDs in six contests.Jordan has not fully recovered from a lingering back injury, 43 Polamalu white jersey
and Fargas does not appear to be the type of back capable of grinding down a spectacularly physical Steelers defensive front. However, if this unlikely duo is to take the next step toward legitimacy, these are the kinds of games where the pair must find ways to make an impact.And the last time I checked, rumbling into the end zone for a score is the best way to do that.Daily analysis, courtesy of Anthony Carroll returns Monday. (23)
Reports say Josh McCown; Rod Marinelli says 'it doesn't matter
If there's one word to describe the current , it has to be "unpredictable."From a draft-day Randy Moss trade, to the JaMoney -- er, JaMarcus -- Russell debacle, to the recent third-round cut incident, the Raiders have sent fans on a roller coaster of an offseason.Five days separated from the official start of 2010 pro bowl Vikings 4 Brett Favre jersey
Oakland's season, head coach Lane Kiffin sent fans around one more stomach-turning loop.According to the NFL Network's Adam Schefter, the first-year head coach is expected to announce Josh McCown as the team's starting quarterback for Sunday's matchup with the Detroit Lions.The news came as a shock to many, as both fans and several team insiders had expected Daunte Culpepper, who signed a deal with the team on July 31, to take over the starting job.Just hours earlier, ESPNews reported that Culpepper had indeed edged out McCown in the race, and would head into Week 1 as the starter. However, since Schefter's report, ESPN reporter Michael Smith has quietly taken the burden off his employer by saying McCown will now likely be the man in Oakland.If Schefter is once again proven right, it will become evident that Kiffin didn't base his decision solely on numbers and percentages.Culpepper turned many heads during the preseason, showing traces of mobility that haven't been a part of the 30-year-old's game since 2004, his last successful stint with the Minnesota Vikings. In four outings the 6-foot-4, 265-pounder completed 26-of-47 passes (55.3 percent) for 308 yards, four touchdowns and one interception. He also took off on the ground eight times, good for 32 yards.Though not far off, McCown had an up-and-down preseason that, in the end, was capped off rather boringly.The 28-year-old ex-Arizona Cardinal and Detroit Lion also attempted 47 passes, and completed 24 of them (51.1 percent) for 352 yards, but he threw no touchdowns or interceptions. He carried the ball just three times for 8 yards.Statistically, then, Culpepper held the apparent edge.Perhaps the greatest explanation behind Kiffin's unconfirmed decision, though, is the length each player has been with the team. McCown, who was added on the first day of the 2007 draft, has been a member of the Raider roster 94 days longer than Culpepper, and he might be much more familiar with Kiffin's offensive system.He might be much more familiar with the Lions' defensive system, too. Though, that reasoning is very unlikely.Unless you're a conspiracy theorist, then this quote looks pretty fishy:"It's simply a matter of always trying to gain a competitive advantage," Kiffin said on Wednesday.How chilling.In the end, though, it will simply come down to who is the better-fit quarterback for Kiffin's offense. That is, the player who gives the Raiders the best chance to win in Week 1. As of now, only Kiffin knows whom that is."JaMarcus," wide receiver Jerry Porter sarcastically predicted.For the time being, that's the only certainty in Oakland: Russell won't be on the field anytime soon."Really it doesn't [matter] in a 36 Bettis White Jersey
certain way," Lions head coach Rod Marinelli recently said. "Both [quarterbacks] are very good veteran players: both right-handed, both can run the boot, both move around very well, both have great arms. They're savvy veterans."Ironically, Marinelli may be the only person who can calm Raider fans down at this point.
Oakland's season, head coach Lane Kiffin sent fans around one more stomach-turning loop.According to the NFL Network's Adam Schefter, the first-year head coach is expected to announce Josh McCown as the team's starting quarterback for Sunday's matchup with the Detroit Lions.The news came as a shock to many, as both fans and several team insiders had expected Daunte Culpepper, who signed a deal with the team on July 31, to take over the starting job.Just hours earlier, ESPNews reported that Culpepper had indeed edged out McCown in the race, and would head into Week 1 as the starter. However, since Schefter's report, ESPN reporter Michael Smith has quietly taken the burden off his employer by saying McCown will now likely be the man in Oakland.If Schefter is once again proven right, it will become evident that Kiffin didn't base his decision solely on numbers and percentages.Culpepper turned many heads during the preseason, showing traces of mobility that haven't been a part of the 30-year-old's game since 2004, his last successful stint with the Minnesota Vikings. In four outings the 6-foot-4, 265-pounder completed 26-of-47 passes (55.3 percent) for 308 yards, four touchdowns and one interception. He also took off on the ground eight times, good for 32 yards.Though not far off, McCown had an up-and-down preseason that, in the end, was capped off rather boringly.The 28-year-old ex-Arizona Cardinal and Detroit Lion also attempted 47 passes, and completed 24 of them (51.1 percent) for 352 yards, but he threw no touchdowns or interceptions. He carried the ball just three times for 8 yards.Statistically, then, Culpepper held the apparent edge.Perhaps the greatest explanation behind Kiffin's unconfirmed decision, though, is the length each player has been with the team. McCown, who was added on the first day of the 2007 draft, has been a member of the Raider roster 94 days longer than Culpepper, and he might be much more familiar with Kiffin's offensive system.He might be much more familiar with the Lions' defensive system, too. Though, that reasoning is very unlikely.Unless you're a conspiracy theorist, then this quote looks pretty fishy:"It's simply a matter of always trying to gain a competitive advantage," Kiffin said on Wednesday.How chilling.In the end, though, it will simply come down to who is the better-fit quarterback for Kiffin's offense. That is, the player who gives the Raiders the best chance to win in Week 1. As of now, only Kiffin knows whom that is."JaMarcus," wide receiver Jerry Porter sarcastically predicted.For the time being, that's the only certainty in Oakland: Russell won't be on the field anytime soon."Really it doesn't [matter] in a 36 Bettis White Jersey
certain way," Lions head coach Rod Marinelli recently said. "Both [quarterbacks] are very good veteran players: both right-handed, both can run the boot, both move around very well, both have great arms. They're savvy veterans."Ironically, Marinelli may be the only person who can calm Raider fans down at this point.
"Five reasons for win on Sunday"
Two desperate teams will enter McAfee Coliseum in Oakland on Sunday with one common goal: to win.The Detroit Lions, who finished with just three victories in 2006, will take on the , a two-win franchise from last season. Both teams earned the title of being the worst in their conference last year, combining for 27 hard-to-watch losses.Luckily, for at least one of the teams, somebody will walk off the field this Sunday with a win and a 1-0 record.Here are five reasons why the Raiders will be that team:5. Stuart SchweigertI'm serious. Well, 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
not completely. The 26-year-old free safety, though, does have a special interest in this game. A native of Saginaw, Mich., Schweigert saw plenty of the Lions growing up in the same state. "This game is special to me because I am from Michigan," Schweigert said a week ago. "[I'd] love nothing more to send them back home with a loss on their record." After recording no interceptions in 2006, I'm feeling a big one in this game. Remember that. (Unless he doesn't get one.)4. The confusing quarterback quandaryNo matter what Lions head coach Rod Marinelli says, not knowing whom Oakland's starting quarterback will be on Sunday is a disadvantage to his team. Both Marinelli and Detroit's defense had to deal with ESPN reporting Culpepper as the starter, Adam Schefter reporting Josh McCown as the top man and head coach Lane Kiffin saying, "Ugh...I don't know." Whomever it might be, the Lions won't know until it's too late to game plan around that person.3. Short corners...tall wide receiversCompared to Oakland's wideouts, Detroit's cast of cornerbacks doesn't look all too impressive. The team's top two corners, Fernando Bryant and Stanley Wilson, both list at a modest 5-foot-11, and neither has recorded an interception in their five combined years with the Lions. On paper, the Raiders have the advantage, hoarding athletic receivers Jerry Porter (6-2), Ronald Curry (6-2) and Mike Williams (6-5). The Lion secondary will find it hard to win one-on-one battles.2. Tall, fast wide receivers...equally tall, fast cornersOn the flip side, Oakland matches up with quarterback Jon Kitna's main targets very well. The 6-3, 212-pound Roy Williams will line up alongside first-round rookie Calvin Johnson, who will be manned up against the 6-2, 210-pound Nnamdi Asomugha and the smaller Fabian Washington. Though Washington lists at 5-11, he makes up for any height disadvantages with quickness and an above-average vertical jump.Combined, the duo of starting corners recorded 90 tackles, 12 interceptions and 19 passes defensed last season. With '06 first-rounder Michael Huff and Schweigert back at the safety spots, it's hard to imagine even the big-play Lions wideouts getting behind Oakland's secondary. 1. Defense wins championships...and games against DetroitYou won't hear it much from the mouths of most NFL analysts, but the Raider 'D' is one of the best in the league. Along with a top-ranked secondary, the unit is strong across the board, from the pass rush, to the linebackers to the coordinator. The Rob Ryan-led unit features one of the fastest linebacking corps in the league, made up of OLBs Thomas Howard and Sam Williams and middle man Kirk Morrison. 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
Throw in a strong pass rush from Derrick Burgess, Tommy Kelly and Warren Sapp, and the Oakland 'D' should have no problem flustering Kitna.We all know what happens when Kitna is flustered.
not completely. The 26-year-old free safety, though, does have a special interest in this game. A native of Saginaw, Mich., Schweigert saw plenty of the Lions growing up in the same state. "This game is special to me because I am from Michigan," Schweigert said a week ago. "[I'd] love nothing more to send them back home with a loss on their record." After recording no interceptions in 2006, I'm feeling a big one in this game. Remember that. (Unless he doesn't get one.)4. The confusing quarterback quandaryNo matter what Lions head coach Rod Marinelli says, not knowing whom Oakland's starting quarterback will be on Sunday is a disadvantage to his team. Both Marinelli and Detroit's defense had to deal with ESPN reporting Culpepper as the starter, Adam Schefter reporting Josh McCown as the top man and head coach Lane Kiffin saying, "Ugh...I don't know." Whomever it might be, the Lions won't know until it's too late to game plan around that person.3. Short corners...tall wide receiversCompared to Oakland's wideouts, Detroit's cast of cornerbacks doesn't look all too impressive. The team's top two corners, Fernando Bryant and Stanley Wilson, both list at a modest 5-foot-11, and neither has recorded an interception in their five combined years with the Lions. On paper, the Raiders have the advantage, hoarding athletic receivers Jerry Porter (6-2), Ronald Curry (6-2) and Mike Williams (6-5). The Lion secondary will find it hard to win one-on-one battles.2. Tall, fast wide receivers...equally tall, fast cornersOn the flip side, Oakland matches up with quarterback Jon Kitna's main targets very well. The 6-3, 212-pound Roy Williams will line up alongside first-round rookie Calvin Johnson, who will be manned up against the 6-2, 210-pound Nnamdi Asomugha and the smaller Fabian Washington. Though Washington lists at 5-11, he makes up for any height disadvantages with quickness and an above-average vertical jump.Combined, the duo of starting corners recorded 90 tackles, 12 interceptions and 19 passes defensed last season. With '06 first-rounder Michael Huff and Schweigert back at the safety spots, it's hard to imagine even the big-play Lions wideouts getting behind Oakland's secondary. 1. Defense wins championships...and games against DetroitYou won't hear it much from the mouths of most NFL analysts, but the Raider 'D' is one of the best in the league. Along with a top-ranked secondary, the unit is strong across the board, from the pass rush, to the linebackers to the coordinator. The Rob Ryan-led unit features one of the fastest linebacking corps in the league, made up of OLBs Thomas Howard and Sam Williams and middle man Kirk Morrison. 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey black jersey
Throw in a strong pass rush from Derrick Burgess, Tommy Kelly and Warren Sapp, and the Oakland 'D' should have no problem flustering Kitna.We all know what happens when Kitna is flustered.
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