Oakland Raiders Off-Season Musings: Let's Look At The Turnover, Morrison to McClain
by Raymond St. Martin (Saint) on Jun 4, 2010 10:43 AM PDT
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Today I have been wondering about how this off-season has been handled and what improvements we can expect from maturing young players and the replacements that were drafted or signed.
I am going to start out with the position that I believe was upgraded the most. That position, believe it or not, is NOT, quarterback, where we replaced our third string QB, JaMarcus Russell, with Jason Campbell, rather it is the quarterback of the defense, Rolando McClain replacing fan favorite Kirk Morrison.
Any Championship team needs an elite middle linebacker. Any Championship team needs that MLB to be the vocal and spiritual leader of that team.
Unfortunately for Kirk Morrison and the Oakland defense, Kirk was too nice of a guy, especially to the opposition before and after games to REALLY be a Raider MLB.
Kirk was also too keen at using his speed to get to the outside instead of using his strength to secure the middle. He was easily washed by linemen and had a knack for over-pursuit. He also took a backseat as a leader. Did even one Raider say that they were upset because they lost their vocal and spiritual leader when Kirk was traded to Jacksonvile? If so, I didn't hear it.
Instead, what I heard, in unison, was praise for Rolando McClain as a leader and how much players have looked forward to playing with him.
So, what does Rolando McClain bring to the table that "Captain" Kirk didn't:
"[Rolando McClain] can help us out a lot, he can help us in the run; he's a bigger guy, he can stuff fullbacks in the whole before they even get started. He's a smart guy, athletic guy, so that's gonna help us out in the passing game. His intelligence is gonna help us because he is gonna know the defense, he's gonna know the checks that the offense is making, so he'll be able to check for us, just like a QB does, he'll be able to do that for the defense. He can help us out a lot, he's still gotta get the playbook down and it's very early for him, training camp can be very difficult for a rookie, so there's gonna be a learning curve, but hopefully it works out."
According to Nnamdi he is a Bigger Guy than Kirk Morrison. he is smart and athletic. he is also going to make the entire defense better by reading the offense and calling audibles for the defense.
This is a HUGE step up from Kirk Morrison, whom I loved, but in my position was better suited for an outside position.
With McClain in the middle and the additions of Kamerion Wimbley and Quentin Groves, our linebacking crew has gotten much bigger. With Sam Williams, Ricky Brown, Thomas Howard and Trevor Scott already in the mix, I have to say that not only has the Middle Linebacking position been upgraded, but, the entire unit as a whole is the most improved of any this off-season
Who will be starting, barring injury, when the season starts. Will be play a 3-4, 4-3, 2-5, hybrid? No one knows, probably not even the Defensive Coaches, but, the options are much better than last year, when we had undersized linebackers getting eaten alive by fullbacks and linemen.
Go Raiders!!!!
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I'm sorry, but I'm still a skeptic.
Maybe its just me now, but I don’t think he’s going to live up to all this hype..I’m guessing he’s going to end up with maybe 60-70 tackles in his rookie year, and by Week 9, we’ll be screaming for Kirk back…
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
I doubt he'll have a better year than Kirk had last year.
I could see him getting more than 2 sacks but there’s no way McClain has 133 tackles this season. There’s nothing to say he won’t be better than Morrison eventually, but he actually has to go out and prove it on the field which will not be easy.
I think it’s way too early to say he will make a bigger impact than Morrison at any aspect of the game, so at this time my vote is “He will not be better than Morrison”.
"Shrooms don’t cut off the faces and rip the still beating hearts out of their training partners. People do." -Random guy on Bloody Elbow.
Excellent detective work.
I don’t see anything in my post that would imply that I am anything other than a Charger fan. I pay a lot of attention to what’s going on with the Raiders and the AFC West in general, so don’t be surprised if you see me posting here from time to time.
"Shrooms don’t cut off the faces and rip the still beating hearts out of their training partners. People do." -Random guy on Bloody Elbow.
He'll be somewhat better on different aspects of the game than Kirk but not Stats like tackles.
Our D-line will be way better, as I have high hopes for Lamarr Houston even more than McClain. I found Houston to be very similar/identical to Gerald McCoy, not only physically but stat-wise also I saw some similarities, but ultimately McCoy had better overall stats. You’ll be surprised SoCalBolt fan. Like I said before, If we almost beat you with Russell at the helm… I’m sure we WILL take one from you this year.
:)
The RaiderLaker
socalboltfan
he will have better stats, because he wont be blown off the play by the fullback or pulling guards, he isnt as adept at pass coverage, but we’ll see. the most important thing for the MLB is to make stops behind the line of scrimmage, not eight yards into the secondary… DEATH RO / RODAWG will be making those stops. kirk was a good OLB, not a stud in the MLB position… And, i hope Rivers gets to meet him, up close and personal like. Like Ro pushing his facemask into the grass after he smashes his ass into the ground….
I'll Get Inside Your FACE!
by VaderBDCRaider on Jun 5, 2010 12:54 PM PDT up reply actions
Yeah, you guys had a pretty good draft all around this year.
A little off topic, but I’ve heard a lot about the Raiders possibly switching to the 3-4. Whats the truth in that and what do you think the Raiders will do at NT? I don’t really see anyone on the current roster that jumps out as a space eater, which is what you need to run a 3-4 scheme effectively.
"Shrooms don’t cut off the faces and rip the still beating hearts out of their training partners. People do." -Random guy on Bloody Elbow.
by SoCalBoltFan on Jun 7, 2010 10:23 AM PDT up reply actions
We might use 3-4 looks, but ultimately the 4-3 will be our base D. It is basically to throw off opposing QB's like Rivers..
so he gets all confused and starts to panic and throws picks.. So basically we don’t need a legit NT right now. Maybe we’ll fully convert but not this year…
The RaiderLaker
We might use 3-4 looks, but ultimately the 4-3 will be our base D. It is basically to throw off opposing QB’s like Rivers..
I doubt the Raiders will be using a hybrid 3-4/4-3 system for the purpose of confusing the QB. It will most likely be put in place because on passing downs its easier to rush the passer from the 3-4 by utilizing your edge rushers, but you have to have a NT in order to free up some lanes for your OLBs to get through. Also, it’s easier to stop the run in obvious running situations by lining up in the 4-3 thats why a lot of teams use a hybrid system. So running the hybrid sytem bodes better for what they want to do on defense in certain siutuations. It has nothing to do with confusing opposing QBs.
"Shrooms don’t cut off the faces and rip the still beating hearts out of their training partners. People do." -Random guy on Bloody Elbow.
Exactly.
And at this point, McClain isn’t an animal.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Houston is though... and McClain just needs to be spot-on on his audibles and his pump-up leadership abilities.
Overall, Rolando should be fine.
The RaiderLaker
A CHANCE, ALL YE DOUBTERS???
Ro will show his beast side, he may be a nice dude off the field, but like all pros, he is an animal when the helmets and pads are on… i like houston’s fire, he seems like a true Raider. Just remember, Reggie White was an animal in pads, and a devout minister and gentle giant off the field, GOD rest his soul. LETS GO RAIDER NATION!!!! LEMME HEAR UR ROAR!!!
I'll Get Inside Your FACE!
by VaderBDCRaider on Jun 5, 2010 12:57 PM PDT up reply actions
Have you met the guy?
It seems like your in the “know”.
He plays with a lot of drive, his play in college shows that. He flies around and always seems to find the ball. He will make a tremendous impact at MLB this season and seasons to come.
Refuse to tiptoe through life only to arrive safely at death
He will make the rest of the team better
McClain may not have the Numbers that Morrison had,but what he will do is make the rest of the D better.by putting them in the right sets and making sure the other guys are prepared and doing there job.this way he wont have to make all the plays to cover for someone else’s mistake.
I believe he will be better although I would have liked to see Morrison stick around as a ROLB.
McClain may not have an immediate impact with the DTs in front of him but long term McClain will be a much better player. Of course the jury is still out on whether he will be All-pro or even Pro Bowl until we see him perform in real games. I have faith he will help this team dramatically.
Keeping Morrison to play OLB would've been a mistake.
We already have Wimbley, Scott, Howard and Groves..
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
The fact Morrison seems to be a more versatile player than those mentioned sans Howard would make him a valuable player especially for depth.
He was good in coverage when dropping into a deep zone but was weak at man to man. However the other backers you mentioned are 3-4 pass-rushing lbs at best.
by TAW on Jun 4, 2010 5:45 PM PDT up reply actions
I agree with TAW
The simple fact is that a linebacker can come in and have an immediate impact.
As much as all of us liked Kirk, he was never an impact linebacker, and as Saint accurately stated one of the major problems of the Raider D was the linebacker core and no linebacker is more important than the MLB. Patrick Willis had no problem coming in immediately and helping the 49ers and McClain is coming out of college more heralded than Willis. I trust Saban who was stated as saying no player he ever coached was more NFL ready than McClain. Although I disagree with Saint in that getting Campbell and ridding the team of Russell was the most important improvement, getting McClain is the next most important upgrade. The Raiders have been woefully weak at LB for at least 5 or 6 years.
Totally agree. Saban's not the only one singing McClain's NFL readiness praise.
and it’s no accident there are so many who praised the first pick because we not only addressed a weakness, but did so with what we so desperately needed—a true captain and playcaller at the position.
Rolando impressed his first step on the field in this aspect. While he may not amass Morrison’s tackle numbers, he will however provide more “assists,” and keep his guys in line to make plays on balls. Our turnover column will come back to life.
This, along with the Houston pick, will be the best draft tandem the Raiders have seen in decades. Immediate impact without a doubt, and a significant one.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
I love the Houston pick...
But sadly enough, I can see Rolando being out of the league in 4-5 years..I can see Houston and Shaughnessy being a great DL tandem though
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
If you have given a solid reason yet, as to why you believe Rolando won't be around...
I have yet to see it.
Convince me, already.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Haha
It’s more of a gut feeling. I see Jamarcus when I look into his eyes, and that scares me. I have no vendetta against him, but I’m just worried he’ll be another failed pick.
The only knock on him is his hunger and viciousness..Other than that, he looks solid…on paper. But when it comes to matching that Ray Lewis mentality, he’s very inferior
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
I dig that. I don't see Jamarcus whatsoever, but I could be wrong about that. I hope not, for our sake
I also don’t believe that all players need that viciousness to be great. And there have been players like Singletary, who before they stepped on the field, had a calm demeanor and unassuming spirit that belied their viciousness on the field, tackling and disrupting offensive schemes.
I am a little comforted that your predictions are largely based on your “hunch.” I’m also loving what I’m hearing his teammates sing his praise. I really believe we’ve had a lot of talent on the field that just needed a solid captain to keep guys in place, and we’ll see that manifest itself this season, due to McClain’s ability to read the field. His size and strength don’t hurt one bit, either.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
I've never met a nice and humble ILB..
The greats have always been real dick heads on the field, and I haven’t seen that from him yet.
When I watch other players talking about it, I get a little more happy about it..Mostly because I’m assuming they no more about him than I. But then again, none of them have the balls to say what they really mean..
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
That's ironic that you say that
Because even though you’re too young to remember Mike Singletary as a player, one of the all time greats, he does work right across the Bay.
I'm too young to ever watch him play in person, but I still know who he is.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Kirk isn't a ILB.
He is on paper, but naturally, he’s a OLB.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Not to be too, uh, mean here, but...
Are you retarded or something?
How about, um, judging players on their skills on the field and not how “vicious” they are or how much of a dickhole they are off the field? K thx bye
Wait…really? Is this really serious? No sorry I’ll stop now.
"The A's have to be setting some record this year for simultaneously maximizing team quality and player anonymity. I guess that’s sort of their thing though." - Luke in MN
Ha.
Everyone’s a fucking critic. I can’t explain my displeasure on a pick without being called a retard.
Listen. Rolando is a 3-4 ILB who’s being asked to take control of a 4-3 team with no run stuffers on the DL. He tackles too high and often gives up on plays, watch some fucking tape!
Stop acting like your hot shit and your “telling me off”. I’m getting tired of douchebags on here calling me retarded cause I dislike the pick and go against the grain. Fuck all of you haters, since when can’t a guy express his opinion?
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
He's getting paid now (and is in the NFL btw), its a big responsibility to earn that shit and he knows it.
He is intelligent enough to realize that this is the NFL and 20 million guaranted and potentially more if he plays his contract fully.
Hence, I know he won’t give up on plays, his character won’t let it happen on this stage, you don’t get paid to play college ball. (I’m just stating this at it is my opinion as you are entitled to yours Jake, but this is why i think you will be wrong)
:)
The RaiderLaker
Thank You
And I hope I’m wrong too..It’s not like I hate Rolando, I just dislike the pick. If he proves me wrong, I’ll write a apology letter to everyone including Rolando for doubting his hunger and talent..
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
That's good enough for me
I have no problem with you criticizing McClain if you go about it reasonably.
"The A's have to be setting some record this year for simultaneously maximizing team quality and player anonymity. I guess that’s sort of their thing though." - Luke in MN
dislike the pick
Jake, I’m putting words in your mouth so please correct, you’re focused on need, ie, OT or NT. Problem is nothing was worthy of a #8 with the financial obligation and commitment when the Raiders had to pick. To get an OT, they had to trade up for premium players or trade down to get the equilibrium value. Ro was the best ILB available by far AND addressed a need. Much bigger upside than Kirk regardless of formation. It was a sensible pick.
by raiders4liffe on Jun 11, 2010 1:38 AM PDT up reply actions
My focuses going into the draft were in order:
OT/OG
CB
DT
LB.
Assuming we weren’t going to trade up or down, Joe Haden would’ve been an excellent pick. Imagine having a already talented CB play and learn next to Nnamdi?
The only true wisdom consists in knowing that you know nothing.
"In Little Walter We Trust"
"I voted for Al, he is clearly the GM of the year thus far we have made MAJOR improvements in all three phases of the game and this Henderson deal is just the icing, cream and cherries on the cake." - Ozraider
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 12, 2010 3:31 PM PDT up reply actions
not being a dick, but....
none of us are even remotely qualified to say who will be here in five years… look at BO…. projected as our best back for the next ten, and gets a hip smash…. gone.
I'll Get Inside Your FACE!
by VaderBDCRaider on Jun 5, 2010 1:00 PM PDT up reply actions
The day after he was drafted he asked the coaches for the playbook.
Player-who-shall-not-be-named still isn’t sure what the playbook looks like. Raise these concerns to Alabama fans and they’ll gladly cite infinite instances to show you why you shouldn’t worry about this.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:03 PM PDT up reply actions
My only real worry about McClain at this point is his pass coverage.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:04 PM PDT up reply actions
Which, should only in rare instances, really be the job of the Mike backer
the best ones delegate this, and clog the passing lane waiting for the ball like Bruschi or Vrabel used to do. They didn’t try to run step for step with anyone, ever.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Not so much in the 4-3..
a 4-3 MLB should be able to cover and pick. If we would make the switch to the 3-4, then his pass coverage responsibilities would be very limited.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Pick, yes, cover, not so much. Primarily in the Tampa 2 zone
not in man/press 4-3, which is what we primarily do. Offenses will attempt to rub the Mike on plays, and isolate them in coverage with big slot receivers and tight ends, or mismatches like Welker like slot guys, but if you have a great Mike backer, he’s gonna call the fastest backer to pick up the coverage assignment. That would be Howard right now, who should line up over the TE.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Great point.
And when McClain does have to cover I expect him to make up what he lacks in foot speed with savvy and instincts.
Of course, the way the LB’s are set now with Wimbley and Scott both looking to start, none of them can cover.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:11 PM PDT up reply actions
Howard will be on the field.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Howard will needs to be on the field
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
I don't see how they can afford to not start him.
And JaKe if I am not mistaken, didn’t you lose a bet last night to Mr. RRS?
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:26 PM PDT up reply actions
You weren't supposed to say anything!
haha I’m waiting for him to come on and rub it in my face lol Wow, that sounded pretty gross.
To be completely honest, when I said Celtics in 4, I really ment Celtics in 5. For some odd reason I thought the series was best out of 5. But I’ll be a man and live up to my bet. He needs to tell me what to say about him though..
“Rated-R Superstar is (blank)”. Its his choice lol
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Haha doesn't matter what you thought
‘cause the Lakers are going to win the series! If I was him I would make you say RRS pig knuckled me and I loved it. Hahaha somehow I don’t think he’ll say that though.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:49 PM PDT up reply actions
haha I’m waiting for him to come on and rub it in my face lol Wow, that sounded pretty gross.
That bet was too easy, so I don’t need to rub it in!
The Ultimate Opportunist
by Rated-R Superstar on Jun 5, 2010 3:11 PM PDT up reply actions
dude
KIRK was more worried about tryin to cover, than stopping the underneath catches that allowed the dolts to take the game…. anyone remember sproles walk down the damn field on underneath catches? like six straight? Ro wont be worried about INTs or deep cover, he’ll stop the underneath passes…. like a MLB should. thats why we have Tyvon AND Missile Mitchell…
I'll Get Inside Your FACE!
by VaderBDCRaider on Jun 5, 2010 1:02 PM PDT up reply actions
after watching hi/low lights hit & misses...
he may not have Ray Lewis hi strung intensity.but what i did see was: he was in the right hole making tackles,wrapping up legs,pushing o-line men out of his way,driving RB’s to the ground & making the correct audible call.
to be fair i also saw him juked & he doesn’t have that pop you would like to see in a MLB.i hope that somewhere down the line he could pick up that “pop”.
all in all i would rather have someone with what he brings to the table then not.
"think of the solution not the problem"
Wow, even Mel Kiper is starting to like our draft
Calls Houston a steal and has stopped calling McClain a reach accd to the articles linked. Maybe Gruden or someone slapped a little sense into him after that embarassing rant during the draft.
You all occupy a world dominated by Kobe Bryant, consider yourself fortunate.
Sorry, here's the link:
http://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/sports/Kiper-Admits-He-Was-Wrong-on-Raiders-Draft-95646074.html
You all occupy a world dominated by Kobe Bryant, consider yourself fortunate.
Kiper is embarrassing all the time
but seems to save most of his venom towards the Raiders. I never listen to a word he says, either good or bad, frankly, he has no idea, and has no expertise.
I agree with you completely, not sure why he's employed at this point as he's proven wrong so often.
it’s comical how bad his analysis is sometimes. I just think it’s funny to see him be the one to point out how off he was on Houston & McClain.
You all occupy a world dominated by Kobe Bryant, consider yourself fortunate.
Ask Mike Mitchell about Kiper's opinion after this season
when he’ll have lost what little credibility some numbnuts out there still has for him. Why else is he still given air time?
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Its the hair..The ladies love it!
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Compared to McShay, he's a genius.
It's not what you've done but what you are doing that matters.
And the roses in this grand ol' stadium are once again Crimson. - Eli Gold, CTSN Broadcast of the BCS Championship Game at the Rose Bowl, 1-7-2010
by AlabamaJammer on Jun 8, 2010 10:31 AM PDT up reply actions
Jay Bruin, may I extend my condolences regarding the passing of THE GREATEST COACH IN SPORTS HISTORY BR-NONE!?
John Wooden lead with class & with grace. Every time I heard him speak I was in shock he was in his nineties. He never had to throw chairs or steal recruits with dirty tricks to make a statement. I believe he is the greatest coach and teacher of all time. His credentials speak for themselves and if you believe otherwise I would like to hear it.
by TAW on Jun 4, 2010 10:44 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
The Wizard of Westwood is on another level!
He commanded the respect of others in a way that is unparalleled in the sports world. I’ve never heard one person utter a negative word about the man.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:51 PM PDT up reply actions
Thank you, It's a tough loss
I’ve seen him around campus a couple of time, had such grace and unbelieveable amounts of wisdom. Truly a wonderful icon for all the UCLA community to stand behind and love.
You all occupy a world dominated by Kobe Bryant, consider yourself fortunate.
Big error in that article
Kiper loves McClain now, but what he said in his premium content article was that Lamarr Houston is better than Gerald McCoy. The article you linked to misquoted him as saying McClain was better than McCoy, which makes no sense at all since they play different positions.
Houston being better than McCoy though, now there’s a thougnt that will help me have pleasant dreams.
These are my principles. If you don't like them, I have others. -Groucho Marx
Yes, of course that is true
It is all pretty much a crap shoot. I remember a few years ago, everyone was on the Gholston band wagon, look how that has turned out, and to be honest I thought Russell would set the Raiders up for 10 years, instead he set us back 4 years.
The only thing I will say about McClain is he has the size, the intellect, the desire, and he has the backing of some very good scouts, after that, who knows? However, from where I sit, he is filling a gaping hole in the Raider defense. I have felt for 3 years that the Raider linebackers were woefully weak, in fact I have felt it has been the weakest link in the defense. Apparently, Marshall and Cable agree because the Raiders have gone aggressively after LB’s in the past two drafts.
Upgrade
I agree he seems to be an upgrade.
I think if the Raiders would have had a stud at MLB and the law firm of Morrison and Howard as OLB each covering half the field with their speed the Raiders would have done better over the last five years.
by Mallard Davis on Jun 4, 2010 7:45 PM PDT up reply actions
You are accurate in this assessment, Mr. Davis
That trio would have been a force. I’m excited for the trio we’ll field this year. I’m more excited because the linebackers will be able to act as linebackers, with more consistent play from the interior middle, and an already solid group of ends.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Draft
My understanding is that Al wanted to take another LB, who is no longer in the NFL, and and was talked into taking Morrison in the draft Now Al would not make a guy the scape goat for the defensive woes five years later because he did not want him in the first place would he Marcus Allen?
by Mallard Davis on Jun 5, 2010 9:19 AM PDT up reply actions
In about 9 weeks we'll get a better idea whether we have Death Ro or Salmon Roe for a MLB.
I’m 75% certain he’s Death Ro but if Jake’s gut is right and McClain is a played-out Spawner whose spent all his Deep South energy swimming upstream (getting drafted) and now plans on laying his fertilized eggs in calm Lake Merritt or the gentle Alameda estuary a’ la He-whose-name-must-never-be-mentioned, well, then we’re in deep shit.
"Don't make me have to kill you."
naw
not death ro, he’s a stud. be our anchor for atleast six years… u’ll see.
I'll Get Inside Your FACE!
by VaderBDCRaider on Jun 4, 2010 5:38 PM PDT up reply actions
Yeah, he will be Ok, I do remeber saying that from seeing some of his interviews he seemed soft, and not really passionate or aggressive.
But what I overlooked was how he sounded soft but intelligent, a big ass difference from “He-who-must-not-be-named” who had no intelligence and basically sounded like a retard when he spoke. Therefore I am absolutely sure McClain will not do us like that one QB did us. If anything, with his intelligence, he’ll try hard before he admits the NFL was too much for him and proclaims himself a bust.
The RaiderLaker
Don't mistake soft spoken for being soft.
It's not what you've done but what you are doing that matters.
And the roses in this grand ol' stadium are once again Crimson. - Eli Gold, CTSN Broadcast of the BCS Championship Game at the Rose Bowl, 1-7-2010
by AlabamaJammer on Jun 8, 2010 10:34 AM PDT up reply actions
Rolando McClain
He’s bigger faster than morrison more athletic and coming from a championship team…Morrison wasn’t soft look at the hit on L.T. on thurs nite football. McClain had over 100 tackles..he always went up against mark ingram when the D scrimmaged da offense..he’s a beast he smart, fast, athletic, big, commited, and a leader what else can u ask for?? he has a supporting cast to help him Thomas howard, Nnamdi, Tyvvon Branch. or secondary is going to be one of the best so teams are gunna try to run..and McClain will step up he shud get atleast 80-100 tackles..Lamarr Houston he gunna b a boss and Walter mcfadden shud b a nickel and dime corner so its bad for the passing game..And the young Wr’s are going to get better going against THE BEST CB in the game Nnamdi at Practice they shud produce and help the team..
Upcoming season
Im ready for the Season already!!!!!!! new QB and others the D will dominate and the O will put up points while the special teams makes plays!!!!! the scout team makes the starters better i think we have built alot of depth in both O and D and looking foward to hopefully a .500 season or better so i can tell my friends, so called analyst fuck off!!!!!!
Mcclian
Is a stud and will be a one for the next 10 years. He is an upgrade over Morrison.
All that said, I dont think we should have drafted him or got rid of Morrison. That wasnt a need position. Kirk is/was a solid player, was never injured, and a pros pro. He will prob never make a pro bowl in his entire career, but i’d take 53 kirk morrison types on my team all day every day. If It aint broke….
We should have drafted the next best a o-lineman (our biggest need) on the board, and kept Morrison. My 2 cents.
by rat, el rat, mr. rat, the rat on Jun 4, 2010 7:18 PM PDT reply actions
Au contraire, mon Amie
It was a need, a dire need, much more of a need than an offensive lineman. Apparently the Raiders saw this also, having drafted two LB’s last year, an MLB this year, and trading for ‘Wimberly and Groves, not to mention moving Scott from DE to LB. Two years ago the offensive line was fine, rushed for a lot of yards etc. This year it looked awful because they were trying to block for Russell who was an albatross, didn’t get the ball away fast enough, didn’t make the right reads, and couldn’t escape any pressure. When Gradkowski was the QB, the line held up well. The Raiders drafted two O tackles, brought in a couple of free agents, the line will be fine, now let’s hope the LB’s do their job for a change.
Fine??
The O-Line has been in the worse half of the league for the last several years for sacks given up.
For once Rat, I agree with you..
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Haha that should tell you something about your hunch right there.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:07 PM PDT up reply actions
Thank you. Jake's hunch was reawakening concerns about Ro's hunger
"Don't make me have to kill you."
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 4, 2010 10:09 PM PDT up reply actions
Sorry..
I can’t help but worry with Oaklands draft record..
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Yup, we all suffer from PTSD.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Post traumatic stress disorder. Yes, we, like those who battled hard and lost, repeatedly...
are suffering our own, very real version of shell shock. The last seven years were like a serious pummeling from the entire world.
Time to start kicking some proverbial ass again!
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Sorry, Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:18 PM PDT up reply actions
Haha listen to bryhnno 'cause I couldn't even get all the words right.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:20 PM PDT up reply actions
Also when I questioned his intensity to Alabama fans
one immediately gave me this link. Death Ro comes in around the 240 mark.
They also basically told me to go fuck myself, because Ro brings more intensity than I could handle.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:23 PM PDT up reply actions
is there another kind?
These are my principles. If you don't like them, I have others. -Groucho Marx
In all honesty, they were great.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 7, 2010 2:59 AM PDT up reply actions
I'm sure you're right, but I'm a Gators fan
so I find Alabama fans boorish in general.
These are my principles. If you don't like them, I have others. -Groucho Marx
Well in the scope of generalization we feel the same of Gator fans...
…but in a one-on-one situation I’m sure you’re a good cat.
But would you not expect your fan base to say the things we said if you had a stud MLB that anchored a smothering defense that just won you the BCSCG?
We’re partial to the men that play at Bama cause they’re family. I’d expect no less from you for your Gator family. In fact if you didn’t I’d be suspect of your passion for the Gators.
Now back to the regularly scheduled debate on if Ro has the sack to be a MLB in the NFL.
It's not what you've done but what you are doing that matters.
And the roses in this grand ol' stadium are once again Crimson. - Eli Gold, CTSN Broadcast of the BCS Championship Game at the Rose Bowl, 1-7-2010
by AlabamaJammer on Jun 8, 2010 10:39 AM PDT up reply actions
I love a lot of things about Kirk, but to say this wasn't a position of need
has me wondering if you watched the team play. Kirk was constantly overpursuing, biting on play actions and misdirects, and where I come from, the MLB is supposed to be the captain of the defense, and if you’re constantly caught biting, what kind of leader can you really be?
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
ILB was a need, but OL was a bigger one.
Think about it like this. Name a OT you could’ve gotten in the 1st and a LB in the third and still be satisfied.. Now, name a LB you could’ve gotten in the 1st and a OT you could’ve gotten in the 3rd..
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Touche. But while I was calling for tackle in the first
I ultimately came to appreciate that the first two picks went on D. I’m trusting the coaches here, on this one.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
I too was happy that the 1st too picks were concentrated on the D..
But I’m not sure that this was the year to do it. The Draft was deep, but more in the later rounds than the 1st. If we were to pick D in the 1st two rounds, I would’ve liked to see Joe Haden THEN Lamarr Houston..
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
I disagree about that, especially at the MLB position.
The dropoff was significant following Rolando at the Mike spot.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Sean Lee, Pat Angerer, Brandon Spikes and Donald Butler are all
imensely talented and could all eventually become big name LB’s..But at OT, who was available worth taking in the 2nd and 3rd?
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
And where did those guys go? I'll give you Angerer,
but none of those guys were near the cerebral captains McClain is. Mark my words, here. None as NFL ready.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Each one of thos guys went to sucessful teams..
Sean Lee – Cowboys
Pat Angerer – Colts
Brandon Spikes – Patriots(Best drafting team in the NFL)
Donald Butler – San Diego Chargers
These teams are obviously doin something right when it comes to getting players, so if they were so confident they could get same to better talent at ILB for a lesser price, then why weren’t we? Is it because Al is fond of Championship players? I think so.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
I was saying where in terms of picks and their order
not the teams.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Ohhh. My bad.
But still. These guys were all taken by teams with a good draft history. Maybe it’s just me, but I think Darrius will be our only succesful 1st. Rd. pick 5 years from now
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
We shall certainly see. I respect your sticking to your guns and not flipflopping on your prediction
I do, however, strongly hope to see his play prove you wrong, sooner than later!
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
I hope for this everyday. I guess we shall see in 2010..
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
When he gets elected to the HoF
you have to change your sig to Rolando pig knuckled me and I loved it.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:53 PM PDT up reply actions
I totally will..Thats if the world hasn't met its demise by some nuclear war or something
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Spikes is underrated
Pats got a steal. Not like they needed another one, but he will be a star.
These are my principles. If you don't like them, I have others. -Groucho Marx
Agreed. Pats pick the right guys for the Pats
can’t hate ’em for that.
Yeah, you can. but you gotta respect ’em.
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Its sounds like you
Doubt our coaching staff and defensive schemes. I think we can be a good team if Al allow the coaches to run the team. I know one thing if we play man to man every team is going after McClain and Wimbley. I hope we play more zone on first and second down this year with pressure to help the run game. then on 3rd down we should be able to use scott and Wimbley to bring pressure. I hope thats what we do. Everyone knows we have the players,but I think our Coaching staff is a big question, ability to stop the run, and get turnovers. That the defense biggest problems. Everyone knowns that. I don’t know another player that we needed that was better that McClain. Bulaga is a RT I don’t think he would have made an impact to the offensive line.
Jake we had one if not the best draft in the league and you are bitching about it.
We got one of the most ready players on D. Those MLBs you mentioned will not make an impact like McClain will. Haden are you kidding me? You say u want Oline then You say Haden? We got 2 OTs who have way more upside then down. Nobody wants to hear about your gut feelings. We haven’t even seen him play yet and all hes done was ask for a playbook, say he won’t holdout, Changed the biggest Raider haters mind about our draft, and get complements from coachs and teammates. I gotta gut feeling your a emo, school girl bitch, shutin who has nothing better to do then hate.
LMAO. You're tough.
There are alot of questions on this guy, Like his intensity, hit-power and coverage skills. He’s a 3-4 ILB who’s being asked to take control of a 4-3 team with run defense issues. So naturally, I’m worried.
I’m still saying it, I didn’t want Rolando. I wanted either a offensive lineman or a cornerback.. Say what you want, I’m sticking by it. Until he proves to me that he is what you all say he is, I’m still going to doubt him.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
What is the source of your questioning his intensity?
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 7, 2010 3:32 PM PDT up reply actions
Maybe we have a different definition on "intensity".
When I say intensity, I am referring to that ‘Ray Lewis" mentality. Someone who jacks your shit up before the game, and makes you wanna rip the opponents head off before your even on the field. And please don’t give me a link to that ONE video where he’s giving a pregame speech.
Since were talking about negatives, he’s a bad tackler(Kirk Morrison), meaning he tackles too high almost all the time, which will end up in him being ran over by bigger backs. And we all know about his issues in pass coverage.
I don’t mean to be a Negative Nancy, but just because we drafted him doesn’t mean I have to love him.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Did you see the link to that one video? I'll give it to you right now!!
jk, But I do like McClain and am not against it (the pick). Bulaga will be out of the league in 4 years btw…
The RaiderLaker
Woah! Whats with the hate on Buluga?
He’s was considered the most complete and NFL ready OT, but for some odd reason he dropped. We should’ve jumped on that and traded up or something.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
He will not be any better than Veldheer...
The most complete OT’s were Okung and Williams, (which Cable said were the first options) maybe, maybe Davis also, but after that it’s a long shot, Cable knows what he was doing otherwise he would’ve taken Bulaga but did not…
The RaiderLaker
Hi praise! Veldheer will be our best lineman by 2012.
"Don't make me have to kill you."
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 7, 2010 8:18 PM PDT up reply actions
and Samson Satele will be our most improved O-lineman
"Don't make me have to kill you."
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 7, 2010 8:19 PM PDT up reply actions
Henderson, on the other hand, will remain obscure
"Don't make me have to kill you."
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 7, 2010 8:21 PM PDT up reply actions
Jake and I viewed the same highlights/lowlights of McClain and began came to similar conclusions
I believe Darth Raider has the gist of them in his recent signature. Notwithstanding, the game context (Alabama way ahead) might explain why he loafed, jogged or otherwise lost intensity.
"Don't make me have to kill you."
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 7, 2010 8:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Lamarr Houston is like Mario Williams as a DE. McClain will be aight...
Did you want Bulaga then Sons? If not then be quiet! :P
there was no other choice than to pick the best available…
(Bilaga Blows btw) Raiders All Day!!!!!!
Veldheer and Bulaga both have short arms and same build and ethnicity. Both will either fail or Be good!
The RaiderLaker
I retract my Bulaga blows comment as I see both Bulaga and Veldheer to be identical only that Bulaga seems much "fatter" a lil bit, but Veld came from a small school so he couldn't be recognized.
Both will fail or both will be good!!
The RaiderLaker
Since you said the magic word, and I did not want T-Rex at #8, I must be quiet
"Don't make me have to kill you."
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 7, 2010 8:53 PM PDT up reply actions
I retract my "be quiet" statement. Lemme guess... you wanted to trade down?
like a girl? jk.
… we’ll see to it that McClain will be a good player just by watching him in Preseason. (Damit! I can’t wait for Preseason, Preseason damit!) still 2 months away!
The RaiderLaker
you're feeling a bit cocky for some reason. swagger's good but know your limitations
"Don't make me have to kill you."
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 8, 2010 8:05 AM PDT up reply actions
That's no excuse. You play to the whistle. Through and through.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Darth Davis not Darth Raider
"Don't make me have to kill you."
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 8, 2010 10:05 AM PDT up reply actions
Jake you have my vote for Retard of the year.
Our biggest need this offseason was to stop the run. We wanted either the two stud OTs or DTs they were gone. We got with no questions asked the best MLB coming out of the draft. Intensity and hit power did u watch any tape on him? So what if he was a 3-4 guy isn’t it easier to play 4-3 in the pros? Your mom was a dike in highschool but she was straight enough to squeeze out a little shit like you. You should send some of this hate shit you write to espn they could use a hater like you.
Keep talking shit, bud. It's making you look super cool! lol Fuckin' dweeb
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
I'll talk shit for my team all day especially to people who calls themselves fans.
When Mr.McClain wins rookie of the year you owe all of us an apology.
If he does, I'll write an apology letter to the entire nation!
But sorry to burst your bubble, but there’s no way in hell Rolando wins Rookie Of The Year..I said this abuot 2-3 months ago, Sean Weatherspoon will win the award by a landslide.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
How is being skeptical based on the college footage any different than being skeptical of our going better than 8-8 or making the playoffs?
If you evaluated all the game film out there like you imply then you must have seen Ro dog it on plays and even look like Mo being deceived. Being a fan and being blind are not equivalent.
"Don't make me have to kill you."
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 8, 2010 8:03 AM PDT up reply actions
Ro
at the risk of being called a douche blind fan, retard, and dike lover, may I point out that it’s not even training camp yet. The kid is here, he’s our number 1 pick. To pick a proper OT in the draft, the Raiders had to trade up, it didn’t happen. Reaching based on need has not gotten us anywhere (JR obviously comes to mind); Ro will be given every opportunity to start and to succeed – deal with it. He can not miss one day of camp; MLB even in any NFL formation, requires a steep learning curve. He’s a long way from Bama. No need to hate until he plays his first game in Sept. and no need to annoint him rookie of the year.
by raiders4liffe on Jun 9, 2010 12:53 AM PDT up reply actions
Also, the tackles worthy of being picked that high were gone.
I believe the next tackle to go was Bulaga around 25.
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 4, 2010 10:08 PM PDT up reply actions
I would rather Bulaga than McClain
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
That is the best argument you have made Jake regarding the pick sense yes OT would have been the better "need" pick.
However that doesn’t really explain your hate towards McClain since he seems to be the exact opposite of Russell. The young man is a film nut whereas JR would lie to coaches about watching blank dvds. Also this team is built right now not to outscore the opposition or be Fantasy Football Studs but keep the game close and win it at the end by playing solid D and managing the clock. That is why the team drafted to help solidify the run defense. Its obvious it wasn’t getting any better with Morrison leading the fray and when you can get the leader of the best statistically ranked run defense as well as a DT from on of the top 5 statistically ranked run defenses in college football, then both picks make total sense. I can’t believe I’m defending Oakland’s picks for once.
by TAW on Jun 5, 2010 6:36 AM PDT up reply actions
Well said. Kirk was a good athlete and sure tackler but consistently misread offenses and took himself out of play
Better Ro than Mo.
"Don't make me have to kill you."
by Sons-of-Blanda on Jun 4, 2010 10:05 PM PDT up reply actions
Looking at this photo of McClain above he looks to me like an imp or Jin. If he one, I hope he's rubbed every Sunday
"Don't make me have to kill you."
Everyone has to check out the latest tidbits from Raiders.com
here’s the link.
Love Bush’s comment about Hue Jackson’s “building a bully.”
Somebody’s getting fired up!
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
Nice post, Saint! Nothing like a spirited discussion about our new draft pick
to get the nation’s blood flowing! Can’t wait to see the kid in action! And the team around him!
Oh yeah, and the offense!
"If your only ambition in life, is to be a better person; well, that's just the best ambition you can have..." Wayne "Rabbit" Bartholomew
No doubt McClain was a great college player, and there will always be arguments about whether we should have taken a different guy,
however, McClain is a Raider…So what does that mean, Morrison is gone, though I thought he played out of position. The Rook will have to prove himself just like every other rook does. He is smart sure, however, so far he is smart at a different speed, and now in the NFL the game really speeds up with players that are much more skilled at every position. I believe this kid can be a star in this league if he plays up to his potential. I am not upset at the pick, because for once we picked someone because of their play on the field and not their 40 yard dash, ie DHB…I went back to do some real research on this kid and he is not a coward, he will put his helmet on somebody, and he will hit someone in the mouth, that is what MLB’s are supposed to do…So, if he has the same tenacity he played with in College, he will be a great pro…And also Raider Nation we have to support the kid and give him a opportunity to grow….He is a Raider now…
by Rodney Sacramento on Jun 5, 2010 2:50 AM PDT reply actions
Yes!!! That is what I am saying. The kid needs to be supported by the nation so he doesn't turn out to be another DHB or JR.
I’m sorry Jake but DHB may be the one out of the league in 5 years since that’s how many more years he has left in his contract. Of the two, I say McClain becomes a solid NFL player and DHB never figures it out. I hope to Oden he proves me wrong though because if he becomes a stud this team will eventually become a perennial contender.
by TAW on Jun 5, 2010 6:41 AM PDT up reply actions
Jake, do not be impatient.
DHB was green – in COLLEGE as he did not play that many games and did not have a high reception rate. His college routes were sloppy and he dropped numerous balls. It’s not his fault that our Raiders picked him at #7. We expected a rough rookie year; it’s not his fault that he started when he didn’t earn it. All we can expect from him is 110% dedication and work. he will improve, no doubt and he will stretch the field. Death Ro may or may not be an improvement from Kirk in sept but he will be the end of the year. My biggest gripe with Kirk, respect him a person with local roots who came to work, in his game was that most of his tackles were 5 yards past the line and he would make 2-3 solid plays and then let a 20 yards straight up the middle. Kirk did not terrorized nor imposed his will; he just got tangled or overan the play. I would like to give Death Ro until the end of the year to asses as it’s very difficult to make that jump off the bat. By training camp, he will know where every D player should be on every play. He’s a student of the game. Let’s give him a second to acclimate.
by raiders4liffe on Jun 5, 2010 9:04 AM PDT up reply actions
DHB
all he needs to do is catch the BALL and Run better routes he has been working his ass off after the season was over…EVERYBODY WAS ON CRABTREES NUTS but he had MORE DROPS than DHB..DHB will do better this season he goes against the best corner every practice so thats gunna make him better..
So aside from running the routes and catching the ball
DHB has the WR thing down?
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 5, 2010 12:48 PM PDT up reply actions
There is such a thing as a learning curve
There are a number of players who struggled in their first year but ultimately became great receivers, Jerry Rice comes to mind. What we know about DHB is that he is tall, and fast.
He also apparently wants to be great, is a hard worker and took a ton of abuse for being picked so high. No receiver out of college can run a route properly, couple that with having a mediocre QB who had no idea of his own, and failure is kind of expected.
Let’s not bury DHB right yet, if at the end of this year with a year of experience, a good QB throwing balls that are somewhat remotely close to him he is still dropping passes and is not productive, then there will be plenty of time to call him a bust. He has no excuses this year, he knows the routes, he will have had plenty of time to develop a feeling for where Campbell wants to throw the ball.
At the end of this year those who want to proclaim him a bust will have plenty of time to do it.
I have a feeling some on this site are going to be eating crow.
i was thinking the same thing Noontide.
by rat, el rat, mr. rat, the rat on Jun 5, 2010 1:11 PM PDT up reply actions
But you hate everyone..So that's expected.
Getting hit by Mike Mitchell is very similar to being hit by a car...going 90.
Maybe that's because Crabtree
Got open enough to catch passes more often?
"The A's have to be setting some record this year for simultaneously maximizing team quality and player anonymity. I guess that’s sort of their thing though." - Luke in MN
Stop making sense.
The Ultimate Opportunist
by Rated-R Superstar on Jun 8, 2010 10:37 PM PDT up reply actions
Maybe
Somebody ought to do a highlights of 2009 post. Granted, it wouldn’t be the longest post in the world, but it might be good for discussion/morale. I don’t think I could do it justice, but maybe somebody.
On DHB, first let me say I make those statements because he was drafted so high, and because he was drafted because of speed and NOT football....raiders4life makes a valid point>>>>
however, DHB has one thing going for him, one huge thing, he is willing!!!! Meaning, DHB is willing to work, he is willing to listen and he wants to be successful. So, yes the kid was green and most assuredly NOT worth a high first round pick..But he is working to be the player Al projected he could be and that is something J-Russ wouldn’t do. DHB could very well become the player we need him to be over the next couple of seasons, so as I’ve said in the past about my teams player, I support DHB as long as he is working toward being the player we need him to be at his position. He is afterall he is a Raider and as a Nation tribal elder I have a responsibility to support those in our clan…Go Raiders!!!!
by Rodney Sacramento on Jun 5, 2010 7:43 PM PDT reply actions
WOW!
Training camp hasn’t even started yet, and already doubts about the new guys? C’mon, let them at least show what they bring to the table before dooming them.
I think McClain is going to be a beast. He played his college ball at the highest level possible for NCAA football—the SEC, and he excelled there. It shouldn’t be too much of a transition for him to play very well at the pro level.
Refuse to tiptoe through life only to arrive safely at death
Hoping
I like this guy…i hope he’ll turn out to be like Ray Lewis…or something close…that would be history 4 our beloved Raiders 7 the fans….
I can't see
McClain being anything other that stellar.
He has all the makings of a leader, pro-bowler, defensive star, and more importantly dedicated to winning his entire career.
He may have some doubters, but he will give us a big smile when we see him blasting through O-Lines and getting sacks and hitting the RB for losses.
They say McClain has got
some decent football smarts, and good instincts.
Watching the Saints, and what a smart defensive team they were, I’m glad we got McClain.
I just want to see some real defensive guerilla warfare from us, so that the other team doesn’t know what the hell to expect from down to down.
I’d like to see some more advanced man/zone blends to complement the blitz and pressure packages.
I don't decent does his football smarts justice
I think when people are being funny, they are actually being serious and when people are being serious, it's actually really funny.
by Rich Langford on Jun 8, 2010 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions
its funny that all you guys are trying to assess talent like you have an f ing clue. truth is no one knows what this kid will do. even funnier is the asshole dolts fan in here. f off jackass go watch a game when the sun is out but not to cloudy, we"ll be down there again this season to fill your stadium of zero champions bitch. morrisson is a classic davis pick fast as hell but not much else, sorry but tackle 9 yards past the LOS is worthless unless your a safety. linebackers are there to make tackles behind the line and stuff the run morrisson did neither just like a former charger tackle machine donnie edwards(that was for you charger fan) dont let us catch you here again or we’ll kick your cyber ass
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