Photo Paul Sakuma / AP

                                                                                                    Former Raider D coordinator Rob Ryan

Many Raider fans hailed the departure of former Raider defensive coach Rob Ryan, but most of them are going to learn the more things change, the more they stay the same.

With the astronomical contract signed by All World corner back Nnamdi Asomugha earlier this week (reportedly 3 yrs around $40 million) and the reported signing of last years surprising DB upgrade Chris Johnson, Al Davis announced in somany words, although Rob Ryan was gone, the "secondary first" defensive scheme he ran is here to stay.

Ryan was right when he claimed he wouldn’t stay unemployed for long as the woeful Cleveland Browns snapped him up more than immediately, laying claim January 14^th, a day before his contract with Oakland officially expired.

Some where surprised considering the Raiders notorious inability to stop the run, often finishing at the very bottom of the League in defensive rushing stats during his tenure form 2004 to 2008.

Those in the know realize Al Davis’s defensive scheme and a serious lack of offense were the real culprits more so than what Ryan was, or wasn’t doing.

Few of Ryan’s detractors care to acknowledge his work prior to coming aboard as a Raider, but believe it or not, he's actually had success fielding good defenses.

From 97' to 99', Ryan was defensive coordinator for the consistently high ranking Oklahoma State Cowboys and named defensive coordinator of the year by the Sporting News his inaugural season.

In 98', they were second overall with 41 sacks and in 99' ranked 10^th in the nation.

Ryan joined the Patriots in 2000 and by his departure in 2003, New England ranked 7^th overall in total defense and led the League in fewest points allowed with 238.

You wouldn’t know it by looking at the numbers, but his tenure with Oakland was a success as he helped build and execute the defense Mr. Davis desired and those who do the hiring in this League realize that fact.

Thats why Mr. Ryan had a job before his old one even expired.

To Davis, stats mean very little. When employing a defensive scheme built to stop the pass, you can’t keep defenders fresh if your not sustaining drives and putting up points on offense.

As recent history has shown, your defense is going to break down and give up big runs like they've done so many times over the last few years.

Davis’s genius, but bizarro way of approaching the game is lost on some, but the truth remains, Ryan was a good. solid coach who ran the scheme and executed it to the best of his ability according to the owners wishes.

Ryan showed he can operate under conditions others might find intolerable. He follow instructions that might not make sense to others incapable or unwilling to grasp or execute as witnessed by coach after coach rotating through Oakland.

Many fans of the silver and black will point to Ryan’s departure as a good thing, especially if Oakland starts putting points on the board, and winning because that will make their built to stop the pass defense look good.

And they should.

The departure of another coach, James Lofton will help the Raiders passing game immensely. His firing came as a surprise to many (Not us here at RNS, scroll below for the story we brought months in advance,,,) but starting with FA WR Javon Walker's pre season retirement talk and culminating in the complete meltdown of supposedly solid #2 WR Ronald Curry, it was clear to some, Lofton was part of the problem.

Firing the hall of famer was a step toward a better 2009 and more production from the Raiders anemic passing game.

If all goes according, offensive investments made in recent drafts should come on line in 09' and teams will be forced to abandon the run and air it out, playing catch up as the clock becomes a factor.

In Al Davis’s world and in his approach to the game and franchise he loves so dearly, understanding why Ryan stayed so long and why Davis was pleased with him isn’t as simple or straight forward as the average fan would like, but thats the problem with genius.

Sometimes others don’t understand.

Will Oaklands defense be better in 09' without Rob Ryan?

Yes.

But not because of his departure.

The defense will be better because of improvements on offense.

See?

 Makes perfect sense... 

                                                          Former Bronco Center Tom Nalen

Denver Broncos

Denver got waaay more quality service from 6-3, 286 lb center Tom Nalen than they ever should have.

His scrappy, tough as nails play should make him a Hall of Fame candidate someday, or at least in Denver’s ring of honor.

The former 3 yr starter at Boston College was taken 218^th overall in the 7^th round of the 1994 draft and ended up serving the Broncos for 15 seasons, garnering status as an all pro and a 5 time pro bowler.

Insane Denver staff and fans awaited his return after a biceps tear landed him on IR in 07'. Countless injuries and several surgeries have him walking with bone against bone grinding in his knee.

After sitting all of 08' with his knee injury, Nalen’s retirement plans were announced January 6^th of 09' by ESPN.

Fittingly, Nalen was the last vestige of the Broncos super bowl teams.

Denver signed stop gap Casey Wiegmann away from division rival Kansas City, but the 13 yr vet is no spring chicken either and made noises last year about retiring too.

6-3, 295 lb Kory Lichtensteiger is listed as a center after being taken 108th overall in the 4^th round of the 08' draft, but the rookie who played college ball for Bowling Green, had exactly zero starts for Denver.

                                                                                                              C Nick Hardwick

 San Diego Chargers

Center Nick Harwick sprained his ankle on the 7^th play of an October 14th 2007 match up with Oakland.

Looked harmless enough, but a misdiagnosis of the injuries severity saw him play out the season on it.

A scheduled off season trip was hastily cancelled as he under went immediate surgery.

A 3^rd round pick (66^th overall) in 2004, Hardwick was an instant starter.

Hardwick called pass protections and blocking schemes for the entire offensive line.

The 6-4 295 lb former Boiler maker center was one of the main reasons L.T. became a huge star as the Chargers team rushed for over 2,000 yds 3 seasons in a row, including a team record 2, 578 yds in 06'.

Hardwick was still on crutches when the 08' season started and missed the first 3 games. He returned and played in 13 until a concussion in the 3^rd quarter of a week 14 matchup with KC saw him carted off the field.

Hardwick signed a contract in January of 2006 to play for SD through out the 2011 season, but truth be told, he hasn’t looked the same since surgery.

Though the Chargers moved in another direction offensively in 08' with an emphasis on throwing the ball, they finished a disappointing 20^th in rushing stats.

The Chargers still have former 9er Jeremy Newberry who re started his career with the Raiders, but the 11 yr vet is walking on borrowed time with two very bad knees.

                                                                               KC missed now Bronco Casey Wiegmann in 08'

Kansas City

KC’s entire organization is in flux as they begin an over all rebuild.

Center Rudy Niswanger took over for Casey Wiegmann when he defected to Denver for the 08' season.

Niswanger was a rookie walk on free agent when he joined KC in 2006, signing a 2 yr deal.

Though he resigned with the Chiefs on March 6^th of 2008, the deal was telling.

Only a 1 yr exclusive rights tender.

At 6-5, 301 lbs, the one time LSU lineman brings versatility to the often depleted and injury riddled KC line with his ability to play all line positions.

Just not very well.

KC moved former 2003 3^rd round selection by Miami Wade Smith to center.

Despite playing all 16 games as starting left tackle (or perhaps because of) he was dumped by Miami at the end of his rookie season.

Smith moved to the Jets for 2 uneventful years playing center and tackle until released to free agency and meandering over to the O line challenged Chiefs.

Though he signed a new contract with the Chiefs on April 24^th of 08', it was only for 2 years.

Oakland Raiders

Though they selected the former VT center 45^th overall in the 2^nd round of the 2004 draft, Grove has chronically under produced.

The 6-4, 300 lb Grove was prized for his unusual nimbleness for a big man and expected to develop into a fixture on the Oakland line, but lack luster play, frequent inuries and recent knee surgeries have made his production a let down so far.

Who knows for sure, but doctors claim it takes a year for the knee to heal properly and Grove could finally be ready to live up to his high draft pick in 09', but Oakland shouldn’t bet on it.

The oft injured Grove appeared in 7 games in 2007 starting only 2.

His deactivation and lack of field time was directly responsible for the rebirth of now Charger Jeremy Newberry’s career.

In 08' Grove "won" the job of starting center from washed up former Buc and 10 yr vet John Wade, but was replaced after a week 10 calf injury in a loss to Carolina that eventually saw him placed on IR for the remainder of the campaign.

Wade was no great shakes in his stead.

Nagging injuries and lack of production have plagued Grove’s checkered career in Oakland.

He’s eligible as a free agent in 09'.

Photo / Getty Images

                                                                                               LB Thomas Howard sacks Damon Huard

Have no illusions, the Raiders have had some noteable busts in the draft (Marinovich anyone? Even Huff has to be added to that list) but have they turned that around in recent years?

Heres the reality...

2006

1^st rnd 7th overall

S Mike Huff

The 6-1, 201 lb former Texan looks like a bust, folks. Its high profile debacles like this Raider draft detractors point to.

2nd rnd 38th overall

LB Thomas Howard

The 6-3, 240 lb speed demon has 302 tackles in 3 yrs, 7 picks and 2 Tds.and is establishing himself as one of the best in the game, especially in coverage.

3rd rnd 69^th overall

T Paul McQuistan

Juries still out, doesn't look great though. The 6-6, 315 lb "McQ" needs reps and has been recovering from knee surgery the beginning of regular season. Still may be a quality back up.

4th rnd 101^st over all

S Darnell Bing

Bing sat on IR seemingly forgotten during the Art Shell administration and after, was quickly released. He stayed in San Fran for a short time and then was out of the League with, some suspect, a serious neck injury.

6th rnd 176^th over all

T Kevin Boothe

Boothe has a Super bowl ring playing behind All Pro right guard Chris Snee for the New York Giants.

Selected for the previous "straight line, power blocking" scheme the Raiders scrapped in favor of Cable’s ZBS, they ditched the 6-5, 315 lb Cornell lineman.

He was no longer an Oakland system fit.

7th rnd 214^th overall

6-4, 305 lb C Chris Morris is nimble and versatile. A much better fit for the zone blocking system.

He can play C and G. Serviceable back up for Oaklands current ground attack.

For those paying attention, the very next pick was Pro Bowl DB Courtland Finnegan of the Tennessee Titans.

7th rnd 255^th overall "Mr. Irrelevant"

WR Kevin McMahan

He’ll have something to tell the Grand kids at least.

PLUSES:

Howard’s a bona fide star.

Though he doesn’t play for us, Boothe resides on a Championship caliber O line.

Morris has grown into a valuable plug in back up in the ZBS.

MINUSES:

Huff was a huge let down and nothing short of a true bust.

Oakland took a flyer on Bing who many considered a steal in the 4^th.

McMahan was nothing more than an extreme long shot.

                                                                                                                        QB JaMarcus Russell

2007

1st rnd 1st overall

QB JaMarcus Russell

The 6-6, 270 lb gun slinger struggled under an interim head coach and 3 play callers, but he's going to be very, very good...

2nd rnd 38^th overall

TE Zach Miller

He already IS very, very good.

The 6-5, 255 lb Miller is improving in every aspect of his game, walling off defenders and making crucial grabs as Russell’s favorite out let.

3rd rnd 65^th overall

DE Quentin Moses

Great potential as an edge rusher, but UNCOACHABLE. Out of the League after drifting from Miami and Denver.

3rd rnd 91^st overall

T Mario Henderson

The 6-7, 300 lb former Seminole never played football until his Sophomore year. After rising to the call in limited action, he may be the answer at LT if he can improve his run blocks and IF we stay with the ZBS...

Photo Ben Margot / AP

                                                                                                                        WR  Johnnie Lee Higgins

3rd rnd 99^th overall

WR Johnnie Lee Higgins

Everyone! Do "the Carlton"!!!

His spectacular KR's and TD grabs were the exception to Oaklands abysmal receiver sets.

The 6-1, 190 lb burner showed growth and improvement after a shaky start. If he continues, Oakland may have its next Cliff Branch.

4th rnd 100^th over all

Michael Bush RB

177 yds and 2 TDs against the play off hopeful Bucs showed flashes of a steal by Oakland in the 4^th round. With his emergence, Oakland could bring a little earth, wind and fire of their own in 09'.

With Bush's help, the Raiders running back trio could more aptly be titled, "Silver, Black and Blue."

4^th rnd 110^th overall

DB John Bowie

The Cincinnati speedster injured his knee and sat on IR.

Fans and Bowie hope he can erase the stigma of being the player selected with the pick New England sent Oakland for WR Randy Moss.

Bowie plays bigger than his 5-11, 190 lbs, but it remains to be seen if he can stay healthy at this level.

On the bright side, corner back Chris Johnson, who filled in beautifully for waived corner back DeAngleo Hall, was a 2003 7^th round pick by Green Bay who drifted from team to team and recovered from a serious knee injury before making a splash last year.

5^th rnd 138^th overall

DE Jay Richardson

Though he was named a starter in 2008 opposite Pro bowl DE Derrick Burgess, 6-6, 280 lb Richardson struggles in pass rushing situations, but is stout against the run notching 51 tackles and 3 sacks by seasons end.

If he continues to work on his counter moves and footwork, he could become a dominant every down defensive end.

5^th rnd 165^th overall

S Eric Frampton

"Frampton comes alive" was a catch phrase commentators were dying to abuse, but unfortunately for the 5-11, 200 lb head hunter, the pro game was not for him.

Though he ran a 4.51 40 at that years combine, he bounced to Detroit and the Vikings before settling back home in Washington State.

6^th rnd 175^th overall

FB Oren O’Neal

The 5-11, 245 lb O’Neal was an essential cog of then Coach Lane Kiffin’s "West Coast Hybrid" offense, but when he was injured in a meaningless pre season game vs the Cardinals, the Raiders lost one of the better lane clearing run blockers in the League.

Most don’t realize how well rounded O’Neal’s game was, not only helping the tackles with pass protection, but catching the ball out of the back field.

A real find, O’Neal will be missed if he can’t come back from one of the worst knee injuries the NFL has ever seen. He’ll still be on crutches when the Raiders enter camp.

If he can’t make it back, he will be missed.

7^th rnd 254^th overall

WR Jonathan Holland

At 6-1, 195 lbs Holland has cut his teeth on special teams and has a few game appearances.

The former Louisiana Tech wide out may make his way up the roster like Ronald Curry or fall off like Carlos Francis.

PLUSES:

Russell struggled with poor protection, no wide outs and coaching changes, but showed late he may be the real deal.

Miller’s a legitimate star at TE.

Henderson could be starting material at the all important left tackle slot.

Higgins is making a name for himself not only as an explosive return man, but as a blazingly fast wide receiver.

Bush showed he may be everything the Raiders had hoped for and more at RB.

Jay Richardson showed he is starting material and does well against the run with potential as a solid all around DE who plays DT on some occasions.

O’Neal will be watched closely as the Raiders eagerly await his possible return.

MINUSES:

Moses could not play at this level and was a complete wash.

Bowie may or may not turn into something, who knows, but for now, he’s a negative. Frampton was a wash and Holland is a project that may or may not work out.

Photo / Getty Images

                                                                                                                             DMC

2008

1^st rnd 4^th overall

RB Darren McFadden

He missed games due to nagging injuries to his ankle and turf toe. His rookie campaign was a let down, but its far too early to slap the "bust" label on him.

If he can stay healthy next year, the 6-2, 210 lb college phenom’s skill sets could give the Raiders offense vast versatility.

Lining him up at QB at wide and in the slot in 08's showed that he can be a threat anywhere on the field to run, receive or even throw.

4^th rnd 100^th over all

S Tyvon Branch

Branch broke his hand in pre season and played with a cast until week 9. Shortly after that he suffered a shoulder injury and was placed on IR.

At 6-0, 205 lbs, Branch could be one of the deadliest gunners in the game if he gets and stays healthy in 09'.

With some game time under his belt, Branch’s unreal speed and knockout hitting style could give the Raiders a very solid safety in the next few years.

4^th rnd 125^th over all

WR Arman Shields

The former Richmond Spider impressed at the combine enough for Oakland to take a chance on Shields, who sat on IR in 2008 not only to heal a knee injury from his Senior year, but so other teams couldn’t lay claim.

The 6-2, 185 lb wide out has extremely good hands and speed. Its just a question of whether he can stay healthy enough to contribute all season.

If he can, Oakland may have an awesome and spectacular receiver in its midst.

6^th rnd 169^th overall

DE Trevor Scott

Though D line coach Keith Millard may jump ship, he did a good job bringing the 6-5, 256 lb Scott up to speed as a situational pass rusher.

In limited action, Scott finished 08' with 24 tackles, a forced fumble and 5 sacks.

If he continues to grow, losing Derrick Burgess at the end of 09' may not hurt as bad.

7^th rnd 226^th over all

WR Chaz Schilens

Schilens made waves at the end of the season catching TDs and turning in exciting performances that helped the Raiders finish the year strong.

The former San Diego State star used his 6-4, 225 lb body to shield and chip defenders in run blocking too, expanding his game and honing his craft.

In 08' he came away with 15 grabs for 226 yds and 3 touch downs in very limited action.

Raider fans are looking forward to more from Schilens as he develops a connection with JaMarcus Russell.

PLUSES:

Despite his early struggles, Russell shows signs of becoming great.

McFadden was rarely injured as an Arkansas Razor back even though the "Wild Hog" offense was catered specifically to him. Lets hope this year was a fluke and he can play up to his massive potential.

Branch showed enough speed, power and heart to make him a definite plus. Given time to gain experience, he could easily become starting material in the Raiders safety challenged secondary.

Trevor Scott showed signs of becoming the all coveted edge rusher so many teams dream about. A definite plus if he continues to grow.

Chaz Schilens has been a pleasant surprise. He likely wouldn’t have gotten a shot had it not been for Oaklands horribly under producing receiver corps. Schilens made the most of it and fans are hoping for more in 09'.

MINUSES:

Shields has yet to play in the regular season and his health concerns mean he’ll have to prove his longevity if he wants to become a plus.

The Raiders may have a history of not so hot picks, but the last few years they’ve found some gems in the later rounds and have two of the most coveted players from the last two drafts.

If they continue to grow and contribute, some of Oaklands selections in recent drafts can go a long way toward dispelling misconceptions about Oaklands drafts.

Photo Matt York / AP

                                                                                                                           WR Anquan Boldin

No doubt the super star wide outs temper tantrum will be played out over the entire off season and may haunt him his entire career. That is unless he has a lights out super bowl and or he and his handlers do some incredible damage control.

Aside from acts of contrition and super bowl glory, Boldin’s days as a Cardinal are likely numbered. Many are aware of the former Florida State stars unhappiness with the Arizona organization and it has been public knowledge since before the season began.

Any actions aimed at image control won’t be done for sake of the NFC Champion Cardinals, it will be done in hopes of landing the talent wide out a fat new contract elsewhere.

As mentioned, a lot rides on Boldin’s response and performance in the weeks to come. Depending primarily on the media and fan response, (they are the ones buying tickets and jerseys...) Boldin may or may not be in the drivers seat when a new business opportunity arises.

The Cardinals may retain the services of Boldin at least for another year if they want to, but it is inadvisable, especially if things with in the organization have deteriorated to the point the media portrays. As recently as January 16^th the Cardinals have stated they would still like to work out a deal with Boldin to remain in Arizona over the long haul, reportedly offering the 6-1, 217 lb. 28 yr old WR a Larry Fitzgeraldesque 4 yr, $40 million dollar deal with $30 million guaranteed.

An offer Boldin reportedly rejected.

Boldin’s agents have stated on and off their client would like to play out the remainder of his contract (two years) with the Cards, then leave the Cardinals or be traded.

Given Boldin’s violent out burst and bolt from the winning locker room, may temper a possible Super Bowl victory with the knowledge Boldin’s days with Arizona may be at an end.

There is little question about Boldin’s heart after coming back from a broken palate suffered September 28th during a violent triple collision in the end zone with two Jets safeties, he was taken off the field on a stretcher.

The collision was so violent it left Cardinal veteran QB Kurt Warner contemplating retirement.

Jets safety Eric Smith was suspended and fined $50, 000 for the incident, but Boldin held no ill will and miraculously returned 3 weeks later after facial surgery to repair the jigsaw of fractures he suffered.

Photo Mel Evans / AP

                                                                                                                                              Boldin carted off

Despite the injury, Boldin held no ill will toward Smith who contacted the Arizona wide out as soon as possible. Boldin told him to keep practicing and playing hard and stated publicly, "I don’t fault him for anything."

Boldin drew praise and amazement for his speedy recovery and lest anyone think the injury wasn’t as serious as it looked, 8 plates were installed to fix two facial fractures as was wiring to realign his jaw.

With out pain killers, Boldin was back in action, missing only 2 games due to the horrific injury.

Whether it had anything to do with it or not, Boldin's speedy return came as Arizona’s remaining receivers showed they could manage with out the 6 yr vet .

Pro Bowl caliber WR Larry Fitzgerald and 2^nd year man Steve Breaston combined for 27 catches and 4 TDs to lead the Cardinals to victories over the Bills and Cowboys in his absence.

All of Boldin’s posturing and bluster with the Cardinals may have finally come to a head with his blow up at O coordinator Todd Haley in last Sundays Championship game. Boldin contributed 4 catches for 34 yds, while his high profile team mate Larry Fitzgerald set NFL records with 9 grabs for 152 yds and 3 TDs.

In all fairness, Boldin had missed the last two regular season games with a ham string injury. It only makes sense they would game plan around Fitzgerald since Boldin’s viability remained unclear.

Barring an unforseen explosion of production by Boldin on Super Sunday, his tirade and difficulties may make him a less desirable commodity for some teams than he was earlier in the year.

This could play into the Oakland Raiders hands who have been mentioned as a possible landing zone for the Cardinals chain moving, yet flighty wide out.

Oakland faces the dilemma of making Pro Bowl corner back Nnamdi Asomugha the highest paid DB in history, placing $11 million dollars for one year at his door step with an exclusive franchise tag , or working out a trade with an interested party.

Boldin is a great wide receiver. Combined with 3^rd yr QB and 1^st over all draft pick JaMarcus Russell and some decent blocking, the Raiders would be instantly upgraded from their abysmal 08' passing game.

With out restructuring though, Oakland still has to contend with the hefty contract awarded FA bust Javon Walker. The wide out signed during the Kiffin era has been more than unproductive and a distraction since joining the Raiders last off season.

Ditching him as is, would result in Oakland eating $5.8 million in dead money, making it harder for the Raiders to sign another expensive wide out, yet odds are Boldin would be a huge benefit to the Raiders passing game.

The benefit to the already stocked at wide out Arizona Cardinals would be the addition of a Pro Bowl CB to their Pro Bowl safety Adrian Wilson. Couple this with the relief of ditching a productive yet head ache inducing wide out and the Cardinals may be interested in a deal.

One things for sure, if he came to Oakland, Boldin likely wouldn’t have to fight anyone else for receptions like he does now.

Photo / Getty images

                                                                                            San Diego Punter Mike Scifres

In a game of field position, punters like San Diego's Mike Scifres change the position from simple special teamer to weapon.

Scifres was rightly cited as one of the key factors in the Chargers play off victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday night.

Scifres averaged a whopping 52.7 yds per on his six game changing punts and netted 51.7, forcing the Colts offense into dangerous goal line situations and limiting the explosive Colt's offense to safer, backs against the wall plays rather than the typically dynamic down field offense their passing attack had been used to.

Though their anemic offense was incapable of capitalizing on it, Oakland Raiders punter Shane Lechler has proven time and time again he is also a game changing weapon,on Oaklands now increasingly dangerous special teams units.

Lechler averaged 48.8 yds per punt this year and successfully pinned opponents with in their own 20 yard line 33 times.

But, these kinds of numbers are nothing new for Lechler and the Raiders.

Photo Paul Sakuma  / AP   

                                                              P Shane Lechler                           

Arguably the best punter in the League since joining Oakland in 2000, Lechler has been selected to the Pro Bowl 4 times, (including this years nomination in 2008) has the best career punting average in NFL history ( 45.5 yds) and a 2007 performance 2^nd only to the legendary Sammy Baugh who averaged 51.4 yds in 1940 to Lechler’s almost as astonishing 49.1.

Unfortunately, Lechler’s stellar success since being drafted out of Texas Tech in the 5^th round (142^nd overall) means he will likely set another record as the highest paid punter in the history of the game if Oakland wants to see him stay in silver and black.

Speculation from those in the know feel Lechler may opt to seek greener pastures and kick for a more winning franchise than the Raiders have been for the last 6 years.

They also feel if Oakland wants to keep their not so secret weapon, owner Al Davis might have to pay far more than other teams to keep him.

He’s worth it, but the Raiders may look elsewhere in case Lechler's lost interest in Oakland.

On December 19^th 2008, Oakland signed 6-3, 200 lb punter Ricky Schmitt to its practice squad.

The move was scoffed at originally by some in the media, but upon recollection of Lechler’s UFA status this off season, may not have been off the mark after all.

Schmitt has bounced from the 49ers, the Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals where he joined the team as a walk on in 2007.

Though from a small school, he has big time potential.

Not surprisingly, Schmitt holds virtually all kick related records at the Division II Shepard university he attended in College and served not only as a deadly directional punter, but a highly accurate kicker.

A surprisingly nimble athlete, Schmitt has timed a 4.4 in the 40 yd dash which makes him a better candidate than most to tuck it and run on fake punts or broken plays.

Schmitt averaged 44 yds on 41 punts and though he would’ve led almost all punting related stats for the year in 2006,due to NCAA regulations his 41 punts were not enough for him to qualify.

If the Raiders like the Cards, Steelers and 9ers before them, aren’t satisfied with the athletic Schmitt and let Shane Lechler go, their best option may lie in the upcoming 2009 NFL draft.

6-1, 220 lb University of Ohio punter Kevin Huber was a consensus All American in 2007, was a finalist for the Ray Guy award and leads all of college football with his 46.9 yd per punt average.

If Oakland chooses to look for a punter in the 09' draft, the former record setting Bearcat could be option #1.

Oakland may be hedging its bets, looking at the draft and by signing Schmitt, but they still have the option of franchising Lechler and signing UFA Pro Bowl corner back Nnamdi Asomugha or trading him for a player and or picks.

Davis always keeps us guessing.

Lechler has established him self as one of the Leagues most consistent and deadly field position weapons of all time, yet it would be far cheaper for Oakland to retain him than it would be Asomugha.

The Raiders have a lot of home work to do and decisions to make in the 09' off season. Among their high pressure list of things to do this off season is to hire a head coach and figure out what to do with two of the Leagues best players.

After decimating the Raiders for the better part of a decade Raider nemesis Mike Shanahan was surprisingly and unceremoniously dumped by the Denver Broncos.

Whether thats good news for Raider fans or not remains to be seen.

Though Shanahan owned the Raiders during his tenure with the Broncos, his record against them the last 2 years had slipped and if not for a well timed time out against Sebastian Janikowski, would’ve been even worse.

As it stood, the injuries, bad draft gambles and under production on the defensive side of the ball saw Shanahan’s 24 and 24 record over the last 3 years over shadow any of the excuses or woes inflicted.

In his far, Broncos owner Pat Bowlen went the opposite direction of Al Davis when canceling out his head coach, paying Shanahan for the 3 remaining years on his contract.

If he chooses, Shanahan can spend some of that money suing Al for the remainder he feels he’s owed by Davis after being fired from Oakland all those years ago.

Some intrepid (or insane) Raider fans have voiced the opinion Shanahan should come "home" to Oakland. While he does have extensive knowledge of the ZBS, the aforementioned feud with Davis and general dislike by Raider fans has this rumor more bluster than balls.

Were it not for a recent announcement that Bills coach Dick Jauron would be retained for another season, some think Shanahan might've shuffled off to Buffalo.

A scenario slightly more likely and potentially terrifying to Raider fans would be the very likely firing of Kansas City’s Herm Edwards and the installation of another 10 years of Shanahan working the Raiders.

Photo Al Masserschmidt / Getty Images

                                                                                                                                 KR/DB Justin Miller

Special teams coach Brian Schneider made his rep at Air Force and in the bigs, really wasn't doing very well. Last year and in the beginning of 08' return and coverage units struggled.

Injuries to starters helped deplete Raider reserves, but Oakland discovered and acquired some excellent ST help later in the season by snagging 5^th yr, 6-3, 230 lb LB Marquise Cooper and 5-10, 196 lb KR/DB Justin Miller.

LB's Sam Williams and Isaiah Ekejuiba stepped up and made plays, Eke earning an alternate slot in Hawaii this off.

6-5, 255 lb reserve DE Trevor Scott showed up several times in game appearances and on special teams too, hustling down field and crushing return men.

Not enough can be said about pro bowler Shane Lechler's contributions. When the ball hangs and average of 5.4 seconds, it makes it easier for coverage to get there at the catch or, by pinning them inside the 15, 10 or 5 yd line, negate the return altogether.

Lechler punted 90 times in in 08' booting a 70 yarder, nailing 33 inside the 20 and 18 touchbacks, 3,706 yds net and a 41.2 yd per punt average.

Field position is a battle Oakland won more often than not in 08'. If they can build on their late offensive awakening in 08', Lechler may be even more devastating of a weapon in 09'.

Photo / Reuters

                                                                    11 K Sebastian Janikowsi, 9 Holder/Punter Shane Lechler

J.Kow has quietly been at the top of the league in touch backs with 22 out of 67 kick offs and scoring nailing 24 of 25 extra points and scoring 97 for the season. Among them, "Sea bass" booted a 57 yd game winner to beat the Jets in OT and was 24 of 30 attempts for the year, averaging 80%.

Both he and Lechler are in their 9th season.

Production and development by Brian Schneider and the majority of Oaklands special teams is very encouraging for next year. With the anticipated return of world beating gunner and safety Tyvon Branch, Oaklands already impressive special teams could get even better.

Photo / Getty

                                                         #21 Pro Bowl DB Nnamdi Asomugha

The following is my Q and A with Raider fan extra ordinaire Nnamdi21.

RNS: Thanks for agreeing to be interviewed.

N21: No problem. Go Raiders!

RNS: About your name sake, do you think he’ll be in silver and black next year?

N21: "Yes I do. Mr Davis has been very good about rewarding his players and spending freely when theirs something he wants. Everyone spoke of a hold out by Nnamdi this off season and it didn’t materialize. It may be rare in todays League, but I believe Nnamdi will stay and play if Al makes him the highest paid player at the position especially with a pro bowl fresh on his resume..

If they go the other direction and franchise him, he could be gone, but I can’t see Mr. Davis letting the corner stone of his backward built defense slip away no matter how well Chris Johnson is filling in.

RNS: Brian Schneider is doing a good job with special teams. What the difference from last year?

N21:

Schneider came from college ball and Air Force so he may have needed a little time to adjust, but he certainly has made strides this year. I think Higgins made obvious progress, but the raiders made some very nice late season acquisitions like LB Marquise Cooper and KR/DB Justin Miller who paid immediate dividends.

Though they had players graduate taking time and talent away from them, Schneider and the ST units were able to recover and actually improve thanks to players like Sam Williams and Isaiah Ekejiuba remaining healthy, in fact, Ekejuiba is an alternate for the pro bowl.

Definitely the most improved in 08'.

RNS: How will Oakland likely address its receiver issues in 09'?

N21: Wow, thats a tough one. I’ve all but given up on what Mr Davis will do when it comes to FA and the draft. Lots of people think we’ll take 3^rd year Texas tech sophomore WR Michael Crabtree if he declares eligible as expected on January 15^th and while not a burner, the kid has some serious skills that might translate well to the NFL. Honestly, I don’t know how complete his game is, but I’ll be doing some home work this off season just in case...

RNS: Will Walker be the #1?

Photo Paul Sakuma / AP

                                                                                                                                    WR Javon Walker

N21: Yes. Thats going to surprise a lot of people who see him as one of if not THE biggest FA bust in history, but Mr Davis has a way of taking old an busted and nursing them back to production. I feel walker may have been allowed to coast this year, get his bearings, heal his freshly operated on knee and get ready for 09'.

Can’t say I wouldn’t be surprised by a big year by Walker, but stranger things have happened. Besides, if they cut him it would count something like $5.8 million in dead money for 09'.

RNS: Any young wides we should be looking out for?

N21: You mean currently on the squad?

RNS: Yes.

                                                                              WR Chaz Schilens

N21: Schilens plays with enthusiasm bordering on out of control, but its good to see someone so hungry especially considering 08's under production. I think the Raiders will be watching Arman Shields health and development for 09 and he could be a pleasant surprise if he can get and stay healthy. Some questions there, but a dynamic wide out and a serious target for Russell if things fall into place.

If Oakland spends big on a wide receiver in FA this off season it could mean experiment over for Spider man.

RNS: Speaking of, who would Oakland look at in FA?

Photo Matt York / AP

                                                               Cardinal WR Anquan Boldin

N21: Well, theres the obvious in Housh from the Bengals. He’s not the ideal speedster deep threat but moves the chains and Oakland has lacked that since the departure of Tim Brown. Not sure if they’re going to pay big money for that especially if they let Walker walk and then still need a west coast type of #1 or "X" receiver. I’m not sure Oakland can afford to ditch Walker, sign Asomugha, their draft picks and take on another massive WR contract for the likes of Housh or even Anquan Boldin.

Intriguingly, Devery Henderson might be available. The emergence of their wides like Colston has seen him drop to fifth in rotation at times, but he still averages over 20 yds a grab. He’d give Oakland deep threat capability and at a far cheaper price, but who knows?

RNS: Do you think Drew Carter will be back?

N21: No. He may try again in pro football, but I think the Raiders will go another direction. He was signed to a one year experiment and this is the second time he’s shredded his knee in his short career. Wasn’t looking great as the season came on anyway after a fast start at early camp.

RNS: So no more Carter?

N21: Seems like that ship has sailed...or sunk.

RNS:Thanks for the time Nnamdi21!

N21: Anytime. Go Raiders!

RNS Raider fan interviews may grow to be a new part of the site. Write us with your feed back!~

                                                                Pre season Walker w/ Lofton

Given the horrendous state of Oaklands alleged wide receivers one has to question the coaching of WR Coach James Lofton ,who many felt was brought in to take the job of then Coach Lane Kiffin. If the wide receiver out put from the Raiders in 08' is an indication of Lofton’s coaching ability, thank god he wasn’t promoted when Kiffin left.

Oaklands wides looked good in early camp, but soon began dropping balls at an alarming rate and continued to do so as the year played out.

Media types have branded the receivers to be the problem, but Ronald Curry looked like he could catch the ball just fine before Lofton showed up and this year he couldn’t catch with a net. His complete lack of focus, effort and banana routes got him benched despite the blatant lack of talent or depth to replace him.

Photo Paul Sakuma / AP

                                                                                                                                  WR Ronald Curry

Heading into week 16, he’s got just 19 grabs for 181 yds and 2 TDs.

Lofton gets a pass for working with Javon Walker’s "days of our lives" routine making even the pre season a massive and ugly distraction, The 6-3, 215 lbWalker then disappeared when it came time to play football.

Dragging his ass onto the field in a few games long enough to show us the potential Oakland could have with a decent wide out, Walker would make 2 quick, often dynamic grabs and vanish like a cruel hoax.

Photo / Reuters

                                                                                                                                        WR Javon Walker

Oaklands number 1 "X" wide outs production topped at 15 catches and 191 yds and exactly 1 TD until a week 10 ankle break against Carolina finally put an end to the misery and his season. He’s already under gone corrective surgery and likely will "play" for the silver and black next year unless Oakland feels it can absorb the cap hit and $5.8 million in dead money.

Who knows? Walker did have 2 knee surgeries just prior to joining Oakland, and it takes a full year to heal, so maybe he’ll break out in 09'.

Don’t hold your breath.

No telling how things would’ve played out for the Raiders had Drew Carter not been injured, but he was more of a long shot with an injury history and his early departure seemed more like the inevitable than the unexpected.

His one year contract with Oakland probably won’t be renewed since he’s blown his knee for the 2^nd time in is short "career" and never really showed anything other than possible potential in the pro’s.

WR Ashley Lelie was a known quantity and an after thought when Carter went down and the Raiders figured out Walker’s presence would be in question every week. The 6-3, 195 lb Lelie’s capabilities where known, but not good and he lived down to expectations snagging a total of 11 catches for 197 yds and 2 TDs so far.

Photo / Getty

                                                                                                                                          WR Ashley Lelie 

5,11, 185 lb speedster Johnnie Lee Higgins has made more of a name for himself as a kick returner and not always good, but his hands and routes have at least shown some growth and his two long TD grabs hinted at the weapon he could become. As of last week Higgins has only 13 grabs, but 258 yds for just under a 20 yd per catch average. He was benched for blowing routes by Kiffin, but thrown into the fire, Higgins has been one of the few pleasant surprises at WR in 08'.

Photo Dean Duprey / AP

                                                                                                                   KR / WR Johnnie Lee Higgins

Rookie Chaz Schilens has 9 catches for 128 yds and has shown enthusiasm, decent hands and a willingness to block in his debut, but the 6-4, 225 lb 7^th round draft pick has a lot to learn and a lack of discipline Oakland hopes will diminish with experience.

Photo Tony Avelar / AP

                                                                                                                             WR Chaz Schilens

He’ll get more this week as he starts for the Raiders depleted corps.

Owner Al Davis seemed to have worked hard to bring Lofton on board, but his results leave a lot to be desired. Fate conspired against him, but he’ll have to bring it next year if Oaklands fledgling passing attack has any chance to be better than 08'.

Raider fans hope the addition of IR wide out Arman Shields will help and that perhaps Al in his infinite wisdom will take a chance on Junior prospect Michael Crabtree (We won’t know for a month wether the Texas Tech wide out declares himself elidgible for the 09' draft, but it is expected) or, look the route of FA like the Bengals T.J. Houshmenzadeh, or perhaps a block buster trade. Names as diverse as Terrell Ownes and Anquan Boldin have been thrown in the mix. 

At this point anyone would help.

Photo Geoffrey McCalister / AP

                                                                                                                           T.T. Wr Michael Crabtree

Lofton was beset with problems from the start. Injuries, under production and attitudes all conspired against him, but thats what coaches are hired to cope with.

In 08', his wides couldn't stay on the field, get seperation, make catches, run routes or block consistently.

Fans and JaMarcus Russell hope he gets his act together this off season and ignites what has the potential to be blistering air assault.

Or fizzle in the game day sun.

09' should tell if Lofton was the victim...or the problem.

Photo Getty Images

                                                                                                                     QB JaMarcus Russell

Though he’s yet to play an entire season, Russell has some  ill informed or merely frustrated detractors already labeling him a bust.

To call the former LSU Tiger a bust at this point seems pre mature considering the cast and circumstance around him.

Russell has a handful of scrubs, no wides and two of the worst tackles in the game allegedly blocking for him.

Add to this the turmoil of Kiffin’s firing, Cable’s interim installment, injures to his two main pre season targets (WR Drew Carter week 3 of the pre and FA bust Javon Walker who was hamstrung and worthless until an ankle injury 2 weeks ago put him and us out of our misery) were M.I.A.. The Raiders stellar running game, counted on by Oakland to take pressure off the "rookie" QB, faltered after week 2 when McFadden suffered turf toe in a rare win against the Chiefs.

There are some other players this year in Oakland the bust label would hang better on, including two free agents that contributed nothing but dashed hopes and distractions for the Raiders, namely former Raider DB DeAngelo Hall and oft injured Walker.

The lack of a go to wide receiver stunted Russell’s growth as a QB, but aside from a handful of trick plays and a TD DMC called himself, Oakland really didn’t do much in the way of coaching or creative thinking / play calling. This is partly attributable to Cable's newness / inexperience, the fact we have a lot of rookies / practice squad graduates and of course, injuries.

Hard to get consistent play when you've got guys like William Joseph, Todd Watkins, Trevor Scott, Jon Alston, Luke Lawton, Hiram Eugene, Chris Johnson, Mario Williams, John Wade and the like filling in. Not too mention, guys like Ashley Lelie, Gibril Wilson, Kalimba Edwards, Ricky Brown, Kwame Harris and others in their first year starting for the silver and black.

Simply stated, this team really hasn’t had a chance to become a "team".

Its leader, JaMarcus Russell, is struggling through his "rookie" year with the expected head aches most imagined when he joined a team that had "earned" the #1 over all draft pick.

Photo Getty Images

                                                                             Injuries, under performance and firings turned Russell

                                                          and the Raiders upside down in 08'.

As for the Raiders themselves, Al Davis gets and deserves most of the blame for the mess Kid Kiffin made, but aside from the usual suspects, Oakland lost a lot of veteran and up and coming players.

Walker and Carter have already been mentioned, but even more damaging was the loss of both FB’s ( O’Neal in the same week 3 pre season game Carter was injured and later Justin Griffith in week 8 in a loss to Baltimore) which as one can imagine, hindered not only the run game, but Oaklands planned passing attack which would’ve relied more on its receiving FB’s had they not been injured.

If one remembers, Kiffin’s "west coast hybrid" focused almost exclusively on Russell dumping the ball off to backs and TE’s until injuries made that less and less tenable, exposing a drought at wide out and at both offensive tackle spots.

The loss of FB’s not only took away valuable options for Russell to dump too, it also took away many opportunities to hit Raiders TE’s.

With DMC not himself, Bush not ready to play at the NFL level and Fargas’s poor pass catching teams were able to play man coverage much more effectively than they had last year, negating one of Russell’s favorite targets 2^nd year TE Zack Miller.

Photo Denis Poroy / AP

                                                                                         Talented TE Miller makes a grab against SD

Others point to success’s enjoyed by team like the Ravens and Falcons who’s rookie QB’s came in and lit up the League leading their teams to winning records and play off contention, but the fact remains, both of these rookie QB’s have excellent support from their "teams".

Matt Ryan of Atlanta has a running game consistently featured in the top 3 and QB Joe Flacco in Baltimore has one of the Leagues highest ranked defenses that leads the League in picks.

Judge Russell pre maturely if you must, but at least acknowledge the fact he’s had some obstacles the others haven’t.

                                                                           C Jake Grove

The fact that center Jake Grove will miss another game isn’t as massive a blow as say, the Colts losing Jeff Saturday, or closer to home San Diego losing Nick Harwick, but it still stings, especially in protect, where fill in center and 11 yr vet John Wade failed several times last week in a 15-17 loss to Miami.

Grove seemed better at protection, but consistently he fails to get second level and impeded the linebackers.

The former VT Hokie has suffered with a knee injury for the last 2 seasons. He had corrective surgery in the off season and said coming in, he felt better than he had in years.

That was good for him and bad for us considering his glaring immobility and lack of burst off the line.

Grove’s play in 08' has been fairly close to that of his fellow line men and that means average to sub par.

He also played with a tell tail gimme that allowed teams to tee off in pass rush. Ducking then raising his head while looking left to right before each snap, Grove telegraphed almost every snap.

Some claim it was to help the often flagged O line in away games where crowd noise can be a factor, but how does a clear gimme to the other team help our guys besides MAYBE keeping us on sides.

If Grove’s head moves are a voluntary even neccessary thing, what does that say about our O lines cohesiveness and quality?

"Here are top level professional line men who can’t execute the simplest of basics."

What ever the reason, if / when Grove gets back on the field, it needs to stop.

The former 2^nd round draft pick has been decent in the rushing game, but only just so and more credit is due the ZBS than the 6-4, 300 lb. Grove.

If last week is any indication, 11 yr vet John Wade needs to be cut loose after the end of the year.

On August 27^th when it was announced Grove had won the job at starting center over Wade many were shocked to hear the news.

Watching Wade in his first 08' start against Miami showed why Grove was sadly, the better option.

   C John Wade

Wade may have just been shaking off the rust after such a lengthy pine ride, but one would think such a wiley old vet would be able to account for blitzes and simple stunts. Several times last week he failed.

Besides missing cuts and blocks Wade consistently failed to move the pile and Miami played on our side of the line most of the day.

In the zone blocking system the center and guards are considered the most important pieces. Unfortunately, Oakland looks like it will need to shop next year not only for tackles, but for a center as well.

Grove can still play, he’s just no longer optimal and effective for the system being run.

Thats assuming of course the system doesn’t change again next year.

                                                                                                        P/KR/DB Justin Miller (#22)

Denver and Miami put in waiver claims for DB Justin Miller who was released by the Jets after they signed veteran Ty Law.

They weren’t the only ones looking to acquire Miller though, and because of their record, the Oakland Raiders were awarded his services.

Miller is most noted for his special teams returning ability and actually was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2006 after averaging over 30 yds a return and scoring 2 TDs.

Miller was the Jets 2^nd round pick (25^th over all) in the 2005 draft and immediately had an impact as a kick return specialist for New York compiling 1,577 yds and a TD his rookie year.

But on September 18^th of 2007 Miller was placed on IR after injuring his knee in a loss against the Ravens.

Earlier in August he struggled with a hamstring injury and missed all of the Jets pre season games.

2 months prior to that Miller was arrested for a misdemeanor assault after an early morning fight at a New York night club.

Miller struggled in coverage for the Jets, but in his short time there, he climbed to 3^rd on New Yorks all time return yardage list with 2,929 yds and 3 TDs.

  3rd all time in Jets return yds

Oakland hopes Miller can give them a spark on special team so that WR Johnnie Lee Higgins can concentrate on receiving for Oaklands MIA passing attack.

Higgins has been hot and cold on returns and more than cold recently.

Safety Tyvon Branch was tried on a few returns but looked shaky and unsure. He ‘s now on IR for the year after a shoulder injury. An injury to his right hand in pre season prohibited his ability in the return department as well. The shoulder injury will see him miss the rest of the year, capping a very disappointing 2008 for the former UConn DB.

The Raiders hope Miller can spark the Raiders special teams who looked good early on, but lost players to injury and because of injury to starters, some of the special teams better players moved up in the rotation and no longer play on return squads.

Miller and the Raiders hope that his dark days are behind him and he can begin competing again at a Pro Bowl level for the Silver and Black.

                                                                                                                          WR Ronald Curry

Even when Oaklands main 3 starters at wide receiver could make the field this year, fans noticed they have consistently been unable to gain separation from defenders.

Some have blamed new wide out coach James Lofton, some point to the departure of legendary Raider receiver turned Coach Fred Biletnikoff, who retired after 10 years at the post and yet others point to the fact Oakland has essentially, a rookie QB at the helm.

All or most of these may have contributed to the demise of the Raiders receiving game, but a closer look at the origin of this group of wide receivers offers a more viable and telling explanation for their lack of ariel attack.

Oaklands wing and prayer wide receiver corps was irretrievably damaged in week 3 of the pre season when Raider wideout Drew Carter blew his knee. Again.

Carter and the entire Oakland air corps was a major question mark coming into the season. Known as a gambler, Davis took a flyer on not one or two of his potential starting wide outs, he gambled on all of them.

Its safe to say the real surprise would’ve been if this long shot gamble had paid off.

Carter had suffered knee and ankle injuries through out his college career and was plagued with the same in Carolina who took him in the 5^th round of the 2004 NFL draft (163^rd overall). Carter immediately blew the ACL in his knee and sat his rookie season.

Unable to stay healthy and reliable, the Panthers cut the 6-3, 200lb wide out, but on March 12^th, Oakland took a chance and signed the free agent.

Carter looked good early, but began to fade as the season approached, then on August 23^rd in a meaningless blow out pre season game against Arizona, Carter was compacted awkwardly by a tackle and tore his left ACL on Oaklands stadiums hard packed baseball in field.

In this one pre season game Oaklands 08' wasn’t quite derailed, but it was a major setback to the Raiders offensive game plan.

In response to Carter’s injury Oakland signed recently jettisoned wide receiver Ashley Lelie. The 6-3, 195 lb former 1^st rounder had fallen on hard times and had been dumped by the 49ers after an unimpressive visit there.

Lelie was a former 1^st round draft pick by the Denver Broncos in 2002, but his production had fallen off and the Broncos were ready to move on.

                                                               WR Ashley Lelie

Lelie was seen as nothing more than an experienced stop gap. He likely might not have made another squad, but Oakland was desperate and gave Lelie a simple one year contract.

He has done nothing to show he’d like to stay in the League next year or merit any kind of contract extension.

Speaking of contracts, one receiver who was expected to contribute was the $55 million dollar man, Javon Walker. His embarrassing and public beating and robbery this off season showed not only poor judgement on his part, but on Oaklands as well.

In "the Davis Letter" sent by the embattled owner to then Coach Lane Kiffin, Davis pinned the acquisition of not only disgraceful DB DeAngelo Hall, but the oft injured Walker squarely on traitor Lane’s shoulders with a stern admonition warning him, "Do not run from that now."

Though some teams seemed genuinely interested in the 6-2, 215 lb Walker’s services before Oakland signed him, most were shocked at the amount the Raiders shelled out to the still promising, but definitely damaged former one time pro bowler.

So far, Walker hasn’t required a 5^th surgery on his knees, but thats likely because he’s never on the field.

A supposed ham string injury has nagged Walker all year, but many question his mental health and whether he can even play football anymore.

Much was made of an attempt to retire in the pre season, but the overture was down played by Walker and the Raiders.

In hind sight, the majority of fans wish his generous offer had been accepted.

WR Ronald Curry won one of the least wanted trophies in sports, the Ed Block courage award. No offense to Ed, but most who receive it have to struggle against great personal odds and usually career threatening injuries to attain the honor.

Curry was a long shot 7^th round draft pick the Raiders converted to wide out. He had the quickness and skills to learn the job, but was brought down with back to back Achilles tears. Despite the injuries, Curry rehabbed, won the Block award and made his way back onto the starting roster.

The 6-2, 210 lb Curry mentioned pre season he’d put on several pounds of muscle with new weight coach Brad Roll and after foot surgery for bone spurs in May, said he felt better than ever heading into the season.

His new found bulk couldn’t help him gain separation from defenders and even when he did, he could not catch the ball. The once sure handed Curry now rides the pine behind another less developed late round selection, last years 7^th round draft pick 6-4, 208 lb WR Chaz Schillens.

                                                                                                                 WR Chaz Schilens

Oaklands patch work, rag tag receiver corps was more of a pipe dream than a winning scheme and its really no wonder its blown up in their faces.

Carter’s knees and ankles were ticking time bombs, Lelie was washed up before he signed, Walker may never fully recover from the death of Darrent Williams and has an injury history worse than Carter’s and Curry was a long, long shot that seems to have not paid off so far.

Some have placed blame on new wide out Coach James Lofton and he may bear some responsibility, but when you look at what he had to work with, the outcome and under production seems almost inevitable.

For those wondering why the Raiders wide receivers can’t get separation from defense backs the answer is simple.

They aren’t very good.

Photo Paul Sakuma / AP

                                                                                    MIA WR Javon Walker

Just when Oakland fans thought it couldn't get worse or weirder.

The Raiders have given the media and Raider haters (often the same thing) more than enough ammo over the 1st half of the 08' season and unfortunately there will probably more before its done.

With changes being made left and right in embattled Oakland some wonder where they might stop.

Interim Coach Tom Cable has stated they feel under producing WR Javon Walker is still in good graces and is capable of making contributions more consistently.

If not, he may be another player that walks away with millions in unearned Raider money.

No claimed CB DeAngelo Hall and no one really thought teams would. Now that he’s been released to free agency, he’ll likely have to rework or sign a new contract should teams take him on.

Hall is likely to contribute with another team if put in the right situation and coverage. He is a fine athlete, but struggled mightily with the Raiders man and press coverage schemes.

Oakland puts its corners on an island man on man more than most teams would ever dream of, something Hall was ill equipped to do.

One gets the feeling Hall was playing his own game rather than listening to what Coaches were telling him.

Though the parting of ways seemed amicable, expect to hear Hall once he gets settled with another team, what a circus Oakland has become.

There is still hope for the Raiders and a good showing this Sunday against the Carolina at home would do a lot to get the Raiders back on track and back into a divisional race that thanks to under performing rivals is really anybodies to take at this point.

As it has been since the beginning of this entire mess, the only real cure isn't firing, hiring, benching or fining,its winning, plain, but apparently, not so simple.