SB Nation User Blog: Raybin

Wherein I get annoyed by Tim Kawakami and make fun of the Rams

Raybin — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 18:46:08 -0000

First, I need everyone to read this link.....if you don't, you'll be lost:

http://blogs.mercurynews.com/kawakami/2009/04/27/raiders-non-greatness-its-all-about-the-weakness-of-al-davis-draft-record/#more-4382

That is a blog post by Tim Kawakami of the San Jose Mercury about the Raiders' draft. Under the name "Raconteur", I posted a comment in response:

There’s a great deal of perception in this column, but there’s also quite a bit of distortion.

First of all time, you’re not exactly making Raider Nation cry by listing some of those 49ers draft picks: Eric Johnson, Andy Lee, Eric Heitmann, Kyle Kosier, Parys Haralson, Joe Staley. I’m not going to pine over not having them.

That some point applies with some of the other names you throw out to taunt us with. I mean, really, Sage Rosenfels? You can do better.

The thing that annoys me most of all is this: hindsight in general is a double-edged sword and never more so than when applied to the NFL draft. Every year we get the same things, “Can’t miss prospect!” “He’s a franchise QB in the making!” “A stud tackle that’ll anchor the left side for years!” “A big, fast linebacker that plays with a mean streak!”

Alternatively we also get…”He’s a bust waiting to happen!” “He comes from a spread system! He’ll never learn the pro game!” “His mechanics are all off!” “He doesn’t know how to shed blockers!”

If your point was to demonstrate that Al isn’t the all-powerful talent evaluator he thinks he is and as some of my more ardent fellow members of Raider Nation still believe…..then, I agree. But just say that.

But, don’t mock Al for taking Robert Gallery #2 overall in 2004. All the experts were saying the same things about Gallery then that they said about Jason Smith and Eugene Monroe this year. At the time, it seemed like the safe, logical, sensible choice.

And if he continues the level of play in the future that he did the last several games of 2008, then it looks like Mario Henderson may be the guardian of Russell’s blindside for years to come. A steal in the third round! Any credit there for that selection?

I agree that Al’s emphasis on speed is a fatal flaw in his drafting. In particular this applies to cornerbacks, as witness Fabian Washington and Stanford Routt. With receivers, it’s hit and miss. Johnnie Lee Higgins had a disastrous rookie campaign, but bounced back last year. If he plays like the ‘08 JLH instead of the ‘07 one, then he’ll be a very successful speedster.

For every success, though, there’s a Carlos Francis type. However, you bring up Jared Allen as an example of how Davis’ focus on speed blinded him to another good prospect. Fair enough, but consider this: 31 other teams blew that one as well, including Kansas City for three rounds. I’m sure when the pick was announced, Kiper said something like, “Allen’s got a great motor and a nose for the QB, but [insert flaws here] kept him from going higher. He projects to be a situational rusher at best.”

Who knew? Which I guess is my point. Al is certainly deficient as a talent evaluator, but the way you’re going about point this out is disingenuous at best.

Just thought I'd offer this as food for thought here. If I get a chance, I'll offer my draft thoughts with in the next day. If not, well........a lot of what I have to say has been said already. :-)

I don't want to make it seem like I'm an ardent Davis defender. But when all you hear about in the media is "ALL AL DAVIS CARES ABOUT IS SPEED AND THAT'S WHY THE RAIDERS SUCK!" it starts to get annoying. Davis may have his problems as a scout and drafter, but he's hardly the only one. But you'd think based on the media, he's the only one.

Witness the comedy of errors that has been the St. Louis Rams since 2000:

2000: Coming off a Superbowl Triumph. How did they do?

Trung Canidate (31st selection)-- Currently out of football. Spent only 4 seasons in the league and amassed less than 1100 yards rushing.

Jacoby Shepherd (62nd selection)--Also currently out of football after only 4 seasons. He amassed SEVEN tackles and 1 interception in that time.

2001. They had 3 first round picks. How did they do?

Damione Lewis (12th selection)--Currently with the Carolina Panthers. Has amassed an average of about 25 tackles and not quite 3 sacks per season. Not exactly overwhelming.

Adam Archuleta (20th selection)-- Started off brilliantly but went rapidly downhill. Currently out of football.

Ryan Pickett (29th selection)-- Pretty solid career, averaging over 48 tackles per year. Not currently with the team, though, and never emerged as the dominating force you want from a first round pick.

Tommy Polley (42nd selection)-- In what's rapidly becoming a theme here....out of football. Had a pretty decent career, actually, so I don't know if that was due to injury or what.

2002:

Robert Thomas (31st selection)-- Spent just 3 seasons with the Rams and played just two games for the Raiders last year.

Travis Fisher (64th selection)-- Having a pretty decent career actually, about what you'd expect for a late 2nd rounder.........but has also left St. Louis for greener pastures.

2003:

Jimmy Kennedy (12th selection)-- Currently with the Vikings, has played just 9 games the last three seasons and has only 99 tackles for his career.

Pisa Tinoisamoa (43rd selection)-- No arguments here. Great pick.

2004:

Steven Jackson (24th selection)-- Again, an awesome pick. Probably the best player on the team.

Anthony Hargrove (91st selection)-- Back to fail, as he is (say it with feeling!)...out of football!

2005:

Alex Barron (19th selection)-- Has proven durable, missing only 3 games in his career and done a decent job on the other side from Orlando Pace...but one wonders if he was worth a Top 20 pick, they would've moved him to the left and not needed to pick Jason Smith this year.

Ronald Bartell (50th selection)-- Actually a good choice. has had a productive career, just what you'd expect for a mid 2nd rounder. Still with the team too!

2006:

Tye Hill (15th selection)-- Has played all of 12 games the past two seasons. Seems like an effective player if he could stay healthy, which apparently he can't.

Joe Klopfenstein (46th selection)-- Has all of 33 catches in three years. Seems a bit high just to take a blocking tight end, dontcha think?

2007:

Adam Carriker (13th selection)-- Currently tearing up the NFL with....43 tackles and 2 sacks in his career. Not exactly top 15 worthy.

But do we ever hear about this? Nope, just about what fools the Raiders are.

Justin Griffith likely gone to Seattle

Raybin — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 22:07:07 -0000

Justin Griffith likely gone to Seattle

Per KFFL

My 1st Round Mock, 4/18/09

Raybin — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 16:19:54 -0000

Not too much need of an intro here.....the title says it all. This is a blend of both what I think teams will do and what I think they *should* do, so the eventual accuracy probably won't be the best. Still, I had a lot of fun doing it and I hope y'all enjoy it.

1. DETROIT LIONS--Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia

The Lions are pretty much pressing reset on the whole franchise, and the first step is a QB. Some people have Jason Smith going here, but the reality is that the franchise needs a face and in the NFL rebuilding starts with the quarterback.

2. ST. LOUIS RAMS--Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

With Orlando Pace gone, this is a no-brainer. Smith is the best OT prospect in the draft and Bulger or whoever will be their QB in the near future needs to be kept upright.

3. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS--Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest

The Chiefs have a lot of holes across the board, so a number of options would make sense here. That being said, their defense is terrible and to land maybe the most polished, NFL-ready player in the draft at #3 is a steal. They'll take him.

4. SEATTLE SEAHAKWS--Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

I don't know if I've seen a single pick that has people arguing more than this one. I think it'll be Crabtree because of what happened to Seattle's receivers last year. They were practically signing any plumber or cab driver who maybe had once seen a football game. Jim Mora, Jr. won't want to risk repeating that fiasco in his first year, and Crabtree can be an amazing weapon for years to come.

5. CLEVELAND BROWNS--Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas

The Cleveland pass rush was pathetic, verging on non-existent last year. Enter Orakpo, a dynamic player who just happens to be the #1 rated DE in this draft.

6. CINCINNATI BENGALS--Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

I've seen a number of possibilities placed here in various mock drafts, but I think Monroe makes the most sense. They simply will never succeed if Carson Palmer is flat on his back looking up at the sky all year. With Smith off the board, Monroe is the best option.

7. OAKLAND RAIDERS--B.J. Raji, NT, Boston College

I've seen two main choices here in a lot of mock drafts: Darius Heyward-Bey and Jeremy Maclin. I really hope Al resists the temptations for both. Bey is SERIOUS reach here at #7. I have him as an early/mid-second rounder. While not as much of a reach, Maclin too would be unwise. I don't have him as a top-10 myself and in any case there are more pressing needs.

I don't know about other Raider fans, but I'm sick and tired of seeing the middle of our defensive line plugged by losers, has-beens and never-weres. William Joseph? Gerard Warren? Fred Wakefield? Come on. Raji is an absolute beast. A better D-Line would free up Morrison and Howard to work their magic. Raji is an instant upgrade. I've been over and over this in my mind and I don't think any other person on the board at this point could help the team as much as B.J. Raji. I just hope Al agrees.

8. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS--Mark Sanchez, QB, USC

Obviously, I can't mock trade scenarios. I can only go with the assumption that every team will keep their pick. We know that won't happen, obviously, and from what I'm seeing this is the most likely place for trade #1 to happen.

But I still have to select a pick that makes sense for the Jags and I think Sanchez is the way to go for them. He'll need a year on the bench to develop, so they can give David Garrard another chance to regain his form.

9. GREEN BAY PACKERS--Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

Green Bay is switching to a 3-4 this year. Jackson is the #1 3-4 defensive end in the draft. You do the math.

10. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS--Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State

Maybin is young and his potential and upside are absolutely amazing. He's young, he's raw and he could be a superstar if given the right coaching. Mike Singletary, anyone?

11. BUFFALO BILLS--Robert Ayres, DE, Tennesee

The Bills pass rush was anemic last year. Ayres is the best pure 4-3 DE in the draft. He's a solid kid and can help the Bills right away.

12. DENVER BRONCOS--Everette Brown, DE, Florida State

With Jackson off the board, Brown is the best choice for a new 3-4 defense like Denver is switching to. He can also play some linebacker if called upon.

13. WASHINGTON REDSKINS--Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi

The Redskins need an upgrade at tackle and they need someone to block for Clinton Portis. With Andre Smith hurting his prospects with his work ethic and character issues, Oher makes the most sense. He's a beastly run blocker with a mean streak. He's just what the 'Skins need.

14. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS--Malcolm Jenkins, CB/S, Ohio State

The annual attempt by the Saints to upgrade their secondary. Jenkins' stock has dropped a bit, but his versatility (corner or safety) and undeniable talent make him the logical choice.

15. HOUSTON TEXANS--Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech

This one is rather speculative on my part. Johnson is such a freak of nature, that I think the Texans will maybe reach a bit to take him here and try to create one of the most fearsome pass-rushing combos in the league. Mario Williams and Johnson coming off the edges will make quarterbacks stay awake at night with terror.

16. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS--Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

Smith's talent is too great for him to fall any farther, especially when you consider that the Chargers need someone to block for LT in the worst way.

17. NEW YORK JETS--Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State

I know, I know. Coles is gone, they need a WR. Favre is gone, they need a QB. Well, then can get a WR later and they already have 3 young, promising quarterbacks to choose from. Nope, what they need is someone to help and eventually replace the aging Thomas Jones. Wells fills the bill.

18. DENVER BRONCOS--Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois

This could be Josh Freeman, but when you look at the Denver secondary, you see a rapidly aging Champ Bailey and...that's about it. They need serious help in the defensive backfield and Davis will provide it.

19. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS--Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State

By all accounts, the new head coach of the Bucs has a serious man-crush on Freeman. If he's available, they're taking him.

20. DETROIT LIONS--Eben Britton, OT, Arizona

Okay, so they've got the franchise drafted in Stafford. Now they need to keep him alive and moving. I have Britton rated somewhat higher than some other folks. I think the kid has all the physical tools, plus he's a great character guy and could be a leader on a team desperately in need of them. With him and Gosder Cherlius, Detroit will win the award for "Most Bizarrely Named Tackle Duo."

21. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES--Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia

A lot of draftniks have rejected the idea that the Eagles will be looking to bring in relief for and an eventual successor to Brian Westbrook. Maybe they're right, but I don't know. Surely last season convinced the Eagles that Westbrook is, functionally, their entire offense. He's been oft-injured and they need someone able to take over on short notice, especially now that Correll Buckhalter is a Bronco. I think Moreno is too good to pass up after falling this far and right into Philly's lap. Most years, he would've been a top-15 pick.

22. MINNESOTA VIKINGS--Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut

The Vikings secondary sucks. Butler will make it better. Not much else to say, really.

23. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS--Rey Maualuga, LB, USC

With the drafting of Jerod Mayo last year and the trade of Mike Vrabel this year, it's clear the Patriots have finally decided to start letting youth be served in their linebacking corps. Tedy Bruschi is, what, 700 or so? :-) Seriously, though, he's getting up there and ReyMa is an excellent fit. I've read of some off-the-field issues, but as the Patriots have shown before, they can take controversial players and turn them into model citizens, so there's no worries there.

24. ATLANTA FALCONS--Clay Matthews, LB, USC

The Falcons lost Keith Brooking this off-season and that hole needs filling pronto. Matthews is a Brooking-type player who will do nicely.

25. MIAMI DOLPHINS--Brian Cushing, LB, USC

The Dolphins need someone to play opposite Joey Porter and Cushing is the perfect complement. I wonder if three players of the same position from the same school have ever been drafted in a row before? ( Probably won't happen this time, either....this is all just semi-educated guesswork after all!)

26. BALTIMORE RAVENS--Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri

Not only is he the best receiver on the board right now, he's the speedy, deep threat playmaker that the Ravens want for Joe Flacco's big arm to throw to.

27. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS--Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi

Some drafts have this pick as a running back, which I frankly don't get. The Colts' Achilles heel has been their run defense for waaaayyy too long. All their solutions seem to fail... Booger McFarland is retired and Ed Johnson was shown the door after his drug scandal. Hopefully for them, Jerry will be the solution.

28. BUFFALO BILLS--William Beatty, OT, Connecticut

Having let problem child Jason Peters go, Buffalo needs a replacement. Enter Beatty, a 6'6", 310 lb. giant who could conceivably still add 20 or 30 pounds if he needs to.

29. NEW YORK GIANTS--Connor Barwin, DE/LB, Cincinnati

This kid is a beast whose motor never stops. The Giants could use a little bump up at OLB and he could also join the pass-rushing DE rotation the Giants use. Most people I've seen have Barwin projected into the second round, but the Giants are so solid everywhere else that a little reach won't hurt them. They could be looking for a receiver in the wake of Burress' departure, so don't rule out Rutgers' Kenny Britt here.

30. TENNESSEE TITANS--Evander Hood, DT, Missouri

I originally had a receiver penciled in here, but with the departure of Albert Haynesworth, the Titans will once again bypass the receiver position in the first round. Hood is obviously no Haynesworth, but the Titans defense depends on clogging the middle, and he's the best option available for them at this point.

31. ARIZONA CARDINALS--LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh

Full disclosure: I live in Pittsburgh and love Panthers football, so some biases are probably getting in the way here. I've read about McCoy dropping down into the mid-to-late second round and that's probably true. But oh, well. Here's my reasoning: The Cardinals need a step up in the run game and with Wells and Moreno gone, McCoy is my choice as the best available option. They can afford to reach a bit here. Caveat: If Anquan Boldin is traded, this will be a receiver.

32. PITTSBURGH STEELERS--Alex Mack, C, California

I'm still amazed the Steelers managed to overcome that awful offensive line to win the Super Bowl last season. Center is where the most urgent upgrade is needed. Mack is a great, great talent.

Raybin's 2009 1st Round NFL Mock Draft, Part 2

Raybin — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 19:15:40 -0000

Well, let me just say before anything else that I'm glad I wanted until today to publish this, else I wouldn't have heard about the Jason Peters trade from Buffalo to Philly....wonder what else is gonna happen in the next week that's gonna render all my predictions null and void.

Also, in the title of my last post, I forgot to add that this is just the first round....anyway....

And here...we...go!!

17. NEW YORK JETS--Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State

18. DENVER BRONCOS--Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois

19. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS--Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State

By all accounts, the new head coach of the Bucs has a serious man-crush on Freeman. If he's available, they're taking him.

20. DETROIT LIONS--Eben Britton, OT, Arizona

21. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES--Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia

22. MINNESOTA VIKINGS--Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut

The Vikings secondary sucks. Butler will make it better. Not much else to say, really.

23. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS--Rey Maualuga, LB, USC

24. ATLANTA FALCONS--Clay Matthews, LB, USC

The Falcons lost Keith Brooking this off-season and that hole needs filling pronto. Matthews is a Brooking-type player who will do nicely.

25. MIAMI DOLPHINS--Brian Cushing, LB, USC

26. BALTIMORE RAVENS--Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri

Not only is he the best receiver on the board right now, he's the speedy, deep threat playmaker that the Ravens want for Joe Flacco's big arm to throw to.

27. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS--Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi

28. BUFFALO BILLS--William Beatty, OT, Connecticut

Having let problem child Jason Peters go, Buffalo needs a replacement. Enter Beatty, a 6'6", 310 lb. giant who could conceivably still add 20 or 30 pounds if he needs to.

29. NEW YORK GIANTS--Connor Barwin, DE/LB, Cincinnati

30. TENNESSEE TITANS--Evander Hood, DT, Missouri

31. ARIZONA CARDINALS--LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh

32. PITTSBURGH STEELERS--Alex Mack, C, California

I'm still amazed the Steelers managed to overcome that awful offensive line to win the Super Bowl last season. Center is where the most urgent upgrade is needed. Mack is a great, great talent.

Raybin's 2009 NFL Mock Draft, Part 1

Raybin — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:41:59 -0000

1. DETROIT LIONS--Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia

This is about as close to a guarantee as you can get. The Lions are pretty much pressing reset on the whole franchise, and the first step is a QB. Some people have Jason Smith going here, but the reality is that the franchise needs a face...it's really just how rebuilding is done.

2. ST. LOUIS RAMS--Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

With Orlando Pace gone, this is a no-brainer. Smith is the best OT prospect in the draft and Bulger or whoever will be their QB in the near future needs to be kept upright.

3. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS--Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest

4. SEATTLE SEAHAKWS--Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

5. CLEVELAND BROWNS--Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas

The Cleveland pass rush was pathetic, verging on non-existent last year. Enter Orakpo, a dynamic player who just happens to be the #1 rated DE in this draft.

6. CINCINNATI BENGALS--Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

7. OAKLAND RAIDERS--B.J. Raji, NT, Boston College

I don't know about you guys, but I'm sick and tired of seeing the middle of our defensive line plugged by losers, has-beens and never-weres. William Joseph? Gerard Warren? Fred Wakefield? Come on. Raji is an absolute beast. A better D-Line would free up Morrison and Howard to work their magic. Raji is an instant upgrade. I've been over and over this in my mind and I don't think any other person on the board at this point could help the team as much as B.J. Raji. I just hope Al agrees.

8. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS--Mark Sanchez, QB, USC

9. GREEN BAY PACKERS--Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

Green Bay is switching to a 3-4 this year. Jackson is the #1 3-4 defensive end in the draft. You do the math.

10. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS--Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State

Maybin is young and his potential and upside are absolutely amazing. He's young, he's raw and he could be a superstar if given the right coaching. Mike Singletary, anyone?

11. BUFFALO BILLS--Robert Ayres, DE, Tennesee

The Bills pass rush was anemic last year. Ayres is the best pure 4-3 DE in the draft. He's a solid kid and can help the Bills right away.

12. DENVER BRONCOS--Everette Brown, DE, Florida State

With Jackson off the board, Brown is the best choice for a new 3-4 defense like Denver is switching to. He can also play some linebacker if called upon.

13. WASHINGTON REDSKINS--Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi

14. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS--Malcolm Jenkins, CB/S, Ohio State

The annual attempt by the Saints to upgrade their secondary. Jenkins' stock has dropped a bit, but his versatility (corner or safety) and undeniable talent make him the logical choice.

15. HOUSTON TEXANS--Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech

16. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS--Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

Smith's talent is too great for him to fall any farther, especially when you consider that the Chargers need someone to block for LT in the worst way.

Well, the first half of the first round is done. Coming later today or tomorrow: 17-32! I've been sketching out a second round mock draft too, but I'm not sure about posting it yet. We shall see. In any case, enjoy!

Week 2 Recap: Offense

Raybin — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 03:00:07 -0000

And I've never gotten used to it

I've just learned to turn it off

--Bob Dylan

No two ways to disguise this one, kids: this loss hurts. I had a lot more to write at first, but the more I think about the loss, the more depressed I get. So let's get right to the grades

QB: Another underwhelming week stats wise for JaMarcus. I continue to be impressed with his decision making abilities. Aside from his hesitation that led to the fumble today, it's hard to find a big, prototypical "rookie mistake." Really, just a very average performance. He's coming along fine. That ball he threw to Higgins was a bee-yoo-tee-ful laser beam. That gets him the "+" in C+.

RBs: Not a whole lot to say....which is half the problem. When a team built to run has a combined 98 yards on the ground, there's going to be trouble no matter what the score says. McFadden was a warrior, out there playing through the pain, though a 3 yard per rush average combined with his constant slipping and falling shows how much it was affecting him. Bush averaged 4 yards a carry....someone tell me again why he only had 14 carries? Let's call it a B-.

O-Line: They only yielded one sack and that was due to J-Russ hanging on to the ball way too long. McFadden's low YPC average is more a function of his injury than ineffective run blocking. Notice how we haven't been talking about Mario Henderson very much? That's as it should be. B.

WRs: Weak. Weak weak weak weak weak. Unbelievably bad. HORRIBLE. Non-existent. 2 catches for 18 yards for Javon Walker? That's not worth all that guaranteed money, my man. 1 catch for Lelie?!?!? ZERO for Curry?!?! Sure, some of it is Russell's fault due to inexperience, but you HAVE GOT TO HELP YOUR YOUNG QUARTERBACK. This means GETTING OPEN CONSISTENTLY so he's not forced to complete two thirds of his passes to the goddamn running backs and fullback.

Some of this is also play-calling though. How can this team expect to win and not get Zach Miller a single completion. GET HIM IN THE GAME, COACHING STAFF. (yeah I know he's a tight end, but it's easier to put him here)

Speaking of play calling, if I may digress for a minute....what kind of lame-ass conservative bullshit were we running out there today? What the hell happened to Lane Kiffin the gambler, the risk taker, the "damn-the-torpedoes-full-speed-ahead" play caller?

The bright spot: Johnnie Lee Higgins. He caught a bullet and ran like hell. Nice returns too.

Higgins gets the A. Everyone else? D-.

We'll move on to the other side of the ball tomorrow. Or, rather, later today... It's damn near 1 a.m. here on the East Coast. I'm out for now!

Week 1 Thoughts

Raybin — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:04:08 -0000

--J-Russ is going to be a fantastic quarterback in the NFL if he can ever be able to consistently drop back to pass without being forced to start running for his life after 4 nanoseconds have passed. He might be able to swat away a CB coming on a blitz, but a charging defensive end is quite another thing. The O-line might be able to runblock beautifully, but the Raiders won't win 5 games this year unless the pass protection shapes up soon. Like NOW.

--Way to earn that money, DeAngelo Hall. I certainly hope you're embarrassed this morning because I know I certainly am. Eddie Royal is clearly talented as hell, but you're supposed to be an elite shutdown corner. He turned you inside out all night long and you had no response except to get frustrated and take dumb penalties.

--Mike Ditka said it best: You've got to help out your young quarterback. That MUST start next week. Russell is not at the stage yet where he can steal a win or two all by himself. That involves making that extra effort to catch a ball that might be a little under or overthrown. I'm looking at YOU Ronald Curry.

--Darren McFadden is going to be fucking DYNAMITE. Let's all sit back and enjoy the show.

--Zach Miller is essential to any success the offense will have. Long may he be healthy.

--Chaz Schiliens may be one of the steals of the 2008 draft. Only two catches, yes, but good ones. Wouldn't surprise me to see him move up the depth chart as the season goes by.

--Gibril Wilson was a damn good pickup.

--Where was the D-Line all night? Jay Cutler could've cooked himself dinner, went home and mowed his lawn, showered, then came back and thrown a pass last night before any pressure would have gotten into the backfield.

--I'm still with Kiffin. We'll know whether to blame him or Ryan as the weeks go by...if the defense improves and they still lose, it's Kiff. If the defense keeps bombing out, it's Ryan. I think Ryan is a good enough co-ordinator, but his defenses are so vanilla. Contrast that with a guy like Dick LeBeau in Pittsburgh who has so many crafty blitzes and multiple looks to keep the other QB guessing.

--The most frustrating thing about the Raiders is their tendency to shoot themselves in the foot at the worst possible times. Every team will make dumb mistakes. But the timing is the killer. Whether it was Curry dropping the pass on 3rd down to kill a promising drive or Fargas throwing the ball at Higgins on that reverse that had got the defense to bite in the opposite direction or any number of other things....they need to suck it up and not make mistakes when the chips are down.

Of course, the ref not calling blatant defensive holding to kill another promising drive doesn't help things either.

--I repeat: JaMarcus Russell will be great. Give him pass protection and some defensive support and the wins will come.

Let's hope we can all put this behind us and move on quick. There's a big test next week in Arrowhead. Can we stop Larry Johnson and Dwayne Bowe and keep Glenn Dorsey in check? If we can, this season is still very promising. If not...we're in a whole heap of trouble.

Keep the faith, Raider Nation! (The only true sports nation.)

Final Draft Thoughts

Raybin — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 11:36:46 -0000

Exciting, isn't it?

For the first time in a couple years, there's a lot of uncertainty about who the Raiders will take. Last year, everyone knew it'd be J-Russ. The year before, everyone knew it'd be Michael Huff. But now? Wow. An embarassment of riches.

The Raiders will take one of the following people:

Glenn Dorsey

Chris Long

Vernon Gholston

Sedrick Ellis

Darren McFadden

Holy crap.

Who wouldn't want to have that problem?

I'm gonna ponder and pontificate for a few minutes.

First, the easy part. If Glenn Dorsey slips to #4, you take him. Period. Not even McFadden. You take Dorsey, who is probably the best overall top 10 prospect. This strikes me as a no-brainer. Dorsey is unreal and as we all know from the fiasco that was last year's run defense, we need big help.

This of course all depends on the St. Louis Rams. If they take Chris Long, we've got Dorsey locked up. I've read some speculation Atlanta might take Dorsey, but that strikes me as unlikely. Did you see their offense last year? Joey Harrington? Byron Leftwich? Chris freaking Redman? Are you kidding me? They need Matt Ryan.

Okay, so let's assume the Rams snag Glenn Dorsey (and I suspect they will). What then? Our draft prospects open up wide.

Let's talk about Kiffin's trading down comments recently. Normally, I'm totally against any top 10 team trading out, barring the sweetest deal of the century. But in one case this year, I won't be against it. We all know the Jets will come calling because they desperately want to land Darren McFadden. If they start offering second and third round picks--which by the by we are desperately short on--then you drop. More picks, maybe a player or two and you're only moving back two spots! What's not to like?!

If this happens, the Jets will land Darren McFadden and the Chiefs will likely take Chris Long. We're down to Gholston and Ellis. Tough call.

Vernon Gholston was the only Buckeye other than James Laurainitis who didn't embarrass himself in the national title game back in January. He was all over the place. And--and this is by no means incidental--he made Jake Long look like a complete ass as he whipped him all over the field during Ohio State/Michigan. Gholston is a genuine beast.

But so is Ellis. I think Ellis is a more well rounded, complete player. He's absolutely dominating. And I think the middle of the line is a greater need than the end. I would pick Sedrick Ellis. There's a chance his might happen--USC isn't far away so he's a well known quantity and I believe our head coach may have been affiliated with USC at some point.

But I think the Raiders are going with Gholston at this juncture. He's a workout warrior, a crazy physical specimen, blazing speed, unlimited raw athletic power. In short, the kind of draft pick that Al Davis LOVES LOVES LOVES.

Again, I will not weep no matter what happens. How could you?

I may make myself a bit unpopular here, but so be it. I feel very strongly about this: If we stay at #4, I don't want to take Darren McFadden.

Think about it: Huggy Bear and Michael Bush. Not to mention Rhodes, who looked real good at the end of last year when he finally got a shot. McFadden is a demon in human form, but he's simply not who we need at this juncture. Our backfield is solid as steel. Our defensive line is not. Kalimba Edwards? Not gonna get it done.

That being said...if we do take McFadden...awesome. How can you be disappointed when your team snags a talent like that? I'll be a little puzzled by the pick, but by no means upset. If we DO take D -Mac, then I suspect Dominic Rhodes will be dealt away with Fabian Washington later in the draft to secure more mid-round picks. He'll be the odd man out.

Finally, Chris Long. Another legitimate monster and a great deal of sentimental value for Raider Nation. We'll only get a shot at him if we stay at #4 and the Rams take Glenn Dorsey, which is a very strong possibility. Will we take him? I can only shrug and say "We'll see" If Davis and Kiff are presented with Long, Ellis, Gholston and McFadden.....well, there's just no way to predict what will happen. But whatever does, it'll be a good result. Especially if wef can wheel and deal for a second round pick and get one of the great wide receivers who will still be hanging around at that point.

Okay, let's say you hold a gun to my head and say "Make a prediction." In that situation, I'd probably wet myself, and then say "Vernon Gholston."

Then I'd run away and probably change my mind a half dozen times before Goodell says, "With the fourth pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, the Oakland Raiders select...."

F@#k you, NBC

Raybin — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 01:41:23 -0000

Saint, I don't know if you have rules against profanity in diary titles, so go ahead and edit this if you don't like it. But I'm so pissed off right now.Update: I changed it just to be on the safe side. I'm calmer now

The event that actually got me steaming was an hour ago, but I find it still rankles. So I need to vent here.

Living here in Steeler Hell, I didn't get to watch the Raiders today. Hoping to catch some highlights of JaMarcus throwing, I tuned into NBC's post-game highlight show. What I saw left me shaking with rage.

You know the only two clips they showed? JaMarcus' interception and fumble.

So if I didn't make it clear in the title, let me reiterate: FUCK YOU NBC.

This was a rookie who missed training camp making his first NFL start after a DISASTROUS outing last week that would have sent most rookie QBs into a funk.

What did he do? Sucked it up like a man, put his bad performance out of his mind, and completed over two-thirds of his passes for over 200 yards. That's a pretty good day for any quarterback, let alone a rookie in his first start.

But what does the general public who didn't follow the game get? They get Keith Olbermann and Bob Costas chuckling at how bad JaMarcus is and insinuating what a bust he'll be and how dumb the Raiders are. And that's the impression they'll have of J-Russ. They didn't see his touchdown pass to Porter. They didn't see the skill or maturity with which he moved the ball in the drive that ended the second half or the drive that ended with Rhodes getting stuffed on 4th-and-1.

Nope. The only impression they're left with is that of another Raider misfire.

Fuck off, NBC. I have no idea why you seem to get such giggles in running down what was a fine performance BY A ROOKIE IN HIS FIRST START. And a rookie that everyone acknowledged from the start was going to need a good bit of seasoning before he came into his own, at that.

But rest assured: J-Russ and the silver and black are going to cram your smugness down your grinning fucking throats next year and FORCE YOU to sit up and take notice.

1st Round Mock Draft

Raybin — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 03:28:28 -0000

Keep in mind this is super early. No one's had a star-making turn in a bowl game or blown anyone away at the combine yet.

Undoubtedly there'll be many of you who think I'm a looney...but that's cool. I probably am way off base on many of these picks. These are just some preliminary thoughts

Miami Dolphins—Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU.

Lots of needs everywhere for this team (there’s the understatement of the year) but defense is first and foremost. Miami has a young offensive unit that can come along and learn next year. But the defense is awful—they give up nearly 28 points a game. This is where Dorsey fits in. You know why the Steelers defense is so good? Casey Hampton is a big badass who clogs the middle and lets the linebackers free to fly all over the place. Same goes for the legendary Ravens defense of 2000. It all started with Siragusa. Dorsey can provide that dominating presence in the center that will let Joey Porter rush the passer like he was brought in to do, not hang back to try and stop the runs a sadly decrepit D-line lets through.

New England Patriots—Keith Rivers, LB, USC

I may be the only person on earth who doesn’t have the Patriots (an undefeated team picking second in the draft...thanks, 49ers) taking Darren McFadden here. I may change my mind in the future...indeed, how does a team pass up a talent like McFadden if they have a shot at him? Still, he’d be wasted on the pass happy Pats and I suspect they know it. What’s starting to hurt them, however, is their vulnerability over the middle. The softness comes mainly from their aging linebacking corps. Vrabel is still a beast, but he’s starting to age. Bruschi and especially Seau are about done. As the proprietor of Mocking the Draft has said, Rivers is a Seau clone with blinding speed and a fierce intensity. Put him back there with a healthy Colvin and a guy like Vrabel to learn from and he’ll have a legitimate shot at being Defensive Rookie of the Year next season. I could also see them trading out of this spot too. New England does clever and unpredictable things on draft day. Should be an interesting pick.

New York Jets—Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

Yeah, I know they went out and gave Thomas Jones a lot of money. Fat lot of good it’s done them. McFadden falling to #3 is a gift and the Jets are going to take it. Not much else to say...this one is a no-brainer.

St. Louis Rams—Jake Long, OT, Michigan

Another outright gift of a guy who could be a legitimate #1 pick falling because of need and circumstance. Jake Long will be the new Orlando Pace in St. Louis. Few higher compliments can be paid an OT. He’ll live up to the billing. Bet the farm on it.

Atlanta Falcons—Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

Last week I would have told you Bobby Petrino was going to bring in his young prodigy Brohm he worked so well with in Louisville to turn the Falcons around. Funny how life works out like that. Petrino screwed the Falcons so badly, they wouldn’t take Brohm out of sheer spite. But they shouldn’t anyway...Ryan is the best QB in this draft class and it’s the Falcons biggest need. Put two and two together and in his case you get 5. The pick number. Get it? Ahem.

Oakland Raiders—Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

Full disclosure: Cut me and I bleed silver and black. Thus it’s probably naïve fanboy optimism that has me putting the Raiders outside the top 5. But I’ll hope for the best and put them at #6 for now. Everyone knows the Raiders’ greatest needs—someone to help stop the run. When you give up 150 yards to a third stringer running behind an aging O-Line (Hello Kolby Smith and Kansas City!) you have severe problems in the center. With Dorsey gone, Ellis is the best choice. He can be a solid anchor for 10 or 12 years. Warren Sapp is probably done after next year, but what a mentor for Ellis! There’s an outside chance the Raiders take Malcolm Kelly here, but I’m certainly hoping Al Davis’ eyes are open to the sheer godawfulness of his defensive line.

Kansas City Chiefs—Chris Long, DE, Virginia

Another guy who could be a top 3 pick falls from circumstance. Certainly the Chiefs have many needs, especially on the O-Line. But this is a really good offensive line class coming out and there should still be some great picks left early in the second round for the Chiefs to snag. Pair Chris Long with Jared Allen though and my god do you have a dual threat. Also, Allen may be gone this offseason and you’ll need a beastly pass rusher to replace him. Either way, that points to Chris Long.

Prediction: If the Chiefs decide their greatest need is on the O-Line, look for them to try and trade to up to #2 and take Jake Long.

Baltimore Ravens--Andre Woodson, Kentucky

The sun is setting on Steve McNair and Kyle Boller is, well....Kyle Boller. Woodson seems like he'd be a better fit in Baltimore than Brohm.. He's great at inspiring and leading and his game management is superb. Plus, he's simply a better quarterback than Brian Brohm.

Cincinnati Bengals--Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State

Who would have thought a Marvin Lewis coached team would put together a good, solid offensive unit and such a lackluster defensive group? Cincinnati's defense lacks purpose, direction, identity....everything, really. They seem just aimless. This unit is going to take a while to rebuild, and Gholston is as solid and steady a keystone as you'll find.

Carolina Panthers--Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville

Poor Chicago Bears. They're just going to miss out on the three best QBs in the draft, which potentially means another year of Rex. But Carolina needs Brohm even more than Chicago. Testaverde is a grandfather, Matt Moore is not the guy and Delhomme is getting older and injury prone. They need a future, and that future points to Brohm.

Chicago Bears--Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

Well, if another year of Rex it must be, then they're going to have to support him with a run game. Cedric Benson's last chance was this year and he was decidedly underwhelming before going down with an injury. All signs point to him being done in Chicago. That means Chicago needs a back and that means Mendenhall.

Philadelphia Eagles--Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma

With McNabb about to be shown the door in Philadelphia and the Kevin Kolb Era set to begin, he's going to need someone to throw to. The Eagles' options at wideout are decidedly vanilla. They're going to need a playmaker for Kolb to throw to and Malcolm Kelly defines the term.

Washington Redskins--Calais Campbell, DE, Miami

Pretty simple here--the Redskins are aging up front on defense and Campbell is just the young monster they need.

Detroit Lions--Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

The Lions' self-destruction has been painful to watch. Jon Kitna is a decent quarterback, but not the guy to singlehandedly win the game. Why has he needed to do so? No running game. Why? Well, Kevin Jones is a decent back....but he's got no one to block for him. Otah can take care of that problem.

Denver Broncos--James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State

Denver is going to need a lot of rebuilding and it needs to start on defense. Laurinaitis can anchor that defense for years to come.

Houston Texans--Johnathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

Ahman Green was a good idea, but turned out to be made of glass. Ron Dayne....good to spell your top guy for a play or two, but not the one you want carrying your team. Joe Echemandu isn't good enough to carry a team. They need a franchise runner and Stewart can be that.

Arizona Cardinals--Dan Connor, LB, Penn State

Edgerrin is getting old, but I don't know if you can justify taking any of the other running backs in this draft quite this high. However, a boost in the linebacking corps in Arizona would help shore up a mediocre defense and Connor is decidedly one of the better options available at this point.

New Orleans Saints--Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona

Well, the Saints have all kinds of troubles on defense, but that secondary is just embarrassing. Antoine Cason can come in and make an immediate impact next year.

Buffalo Bills--Martin Rucker, TE, Missouri

He's the best tight end in the draft and would be an awesome weapon for Trent Edwards and a great extra blocker for Marshawn Lynch. With Rucker on the offense and if that defense can stay healthy next year, look for Buffalo to make some serious noise in the playoffs.

Tennessee Titans--Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

The Titans really screwed the pooch last year by not getting Vince Young any real new weapons on offense. The fact that they'll just miss the playoffs this year shows it. They'll remedy that this time by taking Sweed, the best receiver on the board with Kelly gone.

Minnesota Vikings--Early Doucet, WR, LSU

Well it looks like Tarvaris Jackson finally woke up and joined the NFL. He needs someone other than Sidney Rice to throw to, though. Say hello to Early Doucet, Twin Cities!

Tampa Bay Buccaneers--DeSean Jackson, WR, California

I debated whether or not to put this in here, given Jackson's uncertain intentions so far. If Jackson doesn't declare, you can safely slot Mario Manningham in here. Either way, the Bucs need a downfield threat and Jackson fits that fill perfectly. He's the kind of player Jon Gruden will fall in love with if he has a good combine. Consider Malcolm Jenkins or Aqib Talib a possibility too. Ronde Barber ain't no spring chicken.

Dallas Cowboys--Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State

Thanks to Cleveland and their (as it happened) unnecessary trading up to draft Brady Quinn, the Cowboys--a team with very few holes--get two first rounders. Getting a player of Jenkins' caliber here is an absolute steal and would help shore up the weakest part of Big D's "D".

New York Giants--Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn

Osi Umenyiora is a beast, but Michael Strahan is about done. Fortunately, the Giants can draft a guy in Groves who has the potential to develop into another Strahan. In any case, Umenyiora and Groves coming off the ends will be a lethal combo for opposing offensive linemen.

Pittsburgh Steelers--Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

I love to watch this guy play and watching the Steelers' secondary getting torched by New England and Jacksonville on consecutive weeks shows the sore need for his presence. Talib can develop into a true shutdown corner.

San Diego Chargers--Kenny Phillips, S, Miami

Chargers could use a bigtime safety to complement Antonio Cromartie. Phillips fits that bill nicely.

Seattle Seahawks--Frank Okam, DT, Texas

Put this 6'5, 320 pound monster on the line with Patrick Kerney, Rocky Bernard and Darryl Tapp and stand back in awe at the sheer terror of Seattle's front four.

Jacksonville Jaguars--Vince Hall, LB, Virginia Tech

The Jags are a great team, but they have a somewhat lackluster linebacking corps. Hall can fix that in a hurry. He has great north/south and east/west movement, he tackles like a maniac and he's super aggressive and nasty. In other words, a perfect fit for Jack Del Rio's defense.

Green Bay Packers--Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida

Most people will say this is too high, but I just love this kid's ability. I think he's only started to develop. Green Bay will do like they did with Justin Harrell last year--take a guy who's already pretty damn good, but has oodles of untapped potential and bring him along to grow up in their system. He'll be a force in this league someday sooner rather than later.

San Francisco 49ers--Sam Baker, OT, USC

So it's safe to say the 49ers offense sucks yes? Yes it does. It all starts with protection and Alex Smith and Trent Dilfer have had none. Frank Gore is awesome, but he can't run if the holes aren't there. This all points to the best O-Lineman available and that means Sam Baker will leave his heart in San Francisco.

Dallas Cowboys--Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi

Total cop-out here as I simply couldn't decide who or what the Cowboys will use this pick on, so I decided to copy Matt Miller's. Sue me. (actually, please don't)

New England Patriots--Forfeited

The less said about this, the better.