Here is a quick update on Saturdays night practice. KA1Z3R gave you a brief update but I thought I would put up the notes from camp anyway.

– Visual evidence suggests JaMarcus Russell will be back to normal as far as arm strength by Monday when the 49ers arrive for two practice sessions.

The passing game was again erratic, but Russell launched one with seemingly little effort that sailed a good 50 to 55 yards in the air, with Todd Watkins catching it over DeAngelo Hall.

– One sideline observer with NFL experience was unimpressed with the Raiders passing game, particularly with the amount of balls hitting the ground in seven-on-seven drills. Exceptional passing teams can go entire sessions without an incomplete pass, given that the quarterback is not rushed and has time to wait for receivers to come free.

It’s worth noting, however, that there were sessions even worse last year with Josh McCown, Walter and Daunte Culpepper and the season before with Aaron Brooks and Walter.

– Rookie Arman Shields missed practice again and was joined on the sidelines by Ronald Curry, who practiced in the morning session and practices only once on two-a-days. Jake Grove, another one-a-day performer, also sat out. Guard Robert Gallery was given the evening off and cornerback John Bowie (knee) and linebacker Grant Irons (hamstring) did not practice.

– With Grove and Gallery out, John Wade started at center and Paul McQuistan worked at left guard.

– Marques Tuiasosopo connected on a deep throw to Jonathan Holland over Rashad Baker and Darrick Brown, but later had a pass stolen by Hall in the end zone.

– Defensive end Trevor Scott was sent jogging because of an offsides call.

– Andrew Walter fumbled a center snap, causing Kiffin to call for a new quarterback.

– The Raiders evening practice was shorter than usual, with the families of many players and coaches arriving for the yearly “Family Day.” Families were invited to join players for dinner at the facility after practice, with some leaving to go to local restaurants.