Tom Cable

[RaiderIVlife]

It will be interesting to see how we handle this situation when the season comes to a close. Particularly if we finish "strong" (relative term) by beating Tampa Bay next weekend.

Personally, I like the guy. I also think he's been a solid "soldier" for the organization and gives every appearance of being committed to the Raiders. Whether or not he is a long term answer HC remains to be seen, but I'd hate to jettison this guy all together.

Put it this way, I'd prefer to retain Cable and let him select his OC/DC versus a hire of Kevin Gilbride. He seems to be the type of coach that players respect and again, the "continuity" arguement should not be discounted.

Come what may, I wish him well.

[CrossBones]

If it's between Cable and Gilbride I'd certainly stick to Cable. They'll both fail. As for Cable being a good solider I don't care about that touchy feelly stuff right about now. I believe Cable, for the most part, is over his head. I want anybody who has some experience and has been somewhat successful in this league. I don't mean to sound insensitive but all this "he's a good Raider" and all that gets us zilch.

I'm much prefer Denny Green who has won in the NFL or Jim Fassel who took a team to the Super Bowl.

After six years of incompetent coaching in Alameda I don't think it's totally unfair to expect more than Tom Cable. Whether Al can come up with a guy like that is another question.

Ahhhh the psyche of the fan. :p

[s.dot88]

i agree that i'd rather keep Cable than hire a guy like Gilbride

but i'd much rather bring in a guy like Denny Green, and give Cable an Asst. HC/O-Line gig, maybe even an OC type of deal

but we need a guy who knows what he is doing at HC, not somebody who is trying to find their feet and see what works

[hawaiianboy]

Cable certainly means well and it's kind of unfortunate that he was elevated to the interim HC spot as that likely lessens the chance of retaining him in the O-line coach role he is probably better suited for... The win against Houston was nice, but I just can't get around the fact that we've been flat out uncompetitive in 5 of 11 games under his watch... Granted, those five games were against some pretty good teams, but still an unacceptable ratio...

It's hard not to like Cable because his heart is definitely in it, and some of the mistakes he's made can certainly be filed under that of a Rookie Head Coach... I could see the justification should Al keep him on as head guy and then turned the offense over to a legitimate offensive guru as OC... Al should really be reaching out and seeing exactly who has legitimate interest in the head coaching job should it open up because there is the chance for some big time embarrassment should he dismiss Cable and then be unable to find someone... The last thing we need is a repeat of what happened when he dismissed Norv seemingly without a concrete replacement in mind...

Bottom line for me is whether we can actually get an established guy that is a definitive upgrade or an up and comer in the mold of a Josh McDaniels... It's easy for us to say let's get this guy or that guy, but this isn't exactly a Steelers type of rock steady situation we're trying to sell someone on...Making a change for changes sake or to appease the fanbase may leave us worse off than we already are... I look back now and I think what would have happened if Al hadn't cut the legs out from underneath Calahan in the locker room and had continued with that system with upgraded personnel and a few other changes?...

Nnamdi's already alluded to having too many players that don't measure up as far as attitude and dedication... Al's got to purge the roster of those type of jackholes, or give the head coach the ability to, or we'll never get out of the grave we've dug for ourselves... Anbody think Bill Parcells would have put up with Burgess and Warren laughing it up after a loss?...

[Byron2112]

There just isn't any comfortable answer to the head coaching position here.

There are many things I like about Cable... he's made some dumbass mistakes, but he isn't exactly an experienced NFL headcoach either.

We all know we aren't going to have many options, and I agree that change for change sake is bullshit, or to bring in Gilbride or some other re-tread vergina.

I guess things will be more clear if we come out for this last game and bend over to spread cheeks like we have in the past...

That said, anyone else see impending doom for Tampa and Gruden?

They're fucking finished. Without that D that team has absolutely nothing... no future. Kiffin's gone, Barber and Brooks have got to be on their last legs... no up and comers on offense... a couplea lineman I guess.

I think this is Gruden's swan song down there... Him and Allen never did really put anything together.

Maybe they'll go to Detroit?

[hawaiianboy]

I think this is Gruden's swan song down there... Him and Allen never did really put anything together.

Maybe they'll go to Detroit?


Watch Kansas City pull a Scott Pioli/Jon Gruden combo while we roll out with Matt Millen/Marc Trestman...

[RaiderIVlife]

There just isn't any comfortable answer to the head coaching position here.

There are many things I like about Cable... he's made some dumbass mistakes, but he isn't exactly an experienced NFL headcoach either.

We all know we aren't going to have many options, and I agree that change for change sake is bullshit, or to bring in Gilbride or some other re-tread vergina.

I guess things will be more clear if we come out for this last game and bend over to spread cheeks like we have in the past...

That said, anyone else see impending doom for Tampa and Gruden?

They're fucking finished. Without that D that team has absolutely nothing... no future. Kiffin's gone, Barber and Brooks have got to be on their last legs... no up and comers on offense... a couplea lineman I guess.

I think this is Gruden's swan song down there... Him and Allen never did really put anything together.

Maybe they'll go to Detroit?

Any chance in the world that Gruden/Allen/Davis could rekindle their past romance? How interesting would that be?

Bones - I didn't regard my query about Cable to be a "touchy feely" proposition at all. Being "dedicated" is half the battle in my estimation. How many jackoff players & coaches were simply here for a paycheck? I'd say quite a few. Cable doesn't strike me as that type of dude - of course I could be wrong.

Give him an imaginative OC and do what needs to be done in regard to player personell and we might have something brewing.

As others have said, if it's a choice between Cable and some dude like Gilbride or a college fucking assistant that will command as much respect from Oakland players as Ryan Seacrest, give me Cable (shrug).

[RHC]

Watch Kansas City pull a Scott Pioli/Jon Gruden combo while we roll out with Matt Millen/Marc Trestman...Bastard.

First you punk me in the FF league, then you throw this out for my horrified consideration.

Just shut up already.

[s.dot88]

im still finding ways to convince myself that Pioli is the mystery "local" guy

so far all i have is that he is a Syracuse grad(like Al) and he is a New Yorker, so ill just use that for optimism

[CrossBones]

My point is that I'm way past caring about a player or a coach who has been a good solider and dedicated to the organization. You're either getting the job done or you're not. It's a business and the business is winning. All the Kenny Shedd guys in the world won't fix what's wrong with Oakland.

To me Cable is way over his head. He's doing what a lot of coaches in his situation do...turn to gadget plays...hook and ladders; fake FG's to our 275 pound kicker; onside kicks etc . Reminds me of Jack Patera in the early days of the Seahawks. Sure some of it works occasionally but in the end it's not what real teams are made of. I don't think Cable has what it takes in the long run and we're just setting ourselves up for another 1-2 year mess. I doubt Davis will retain him as a HC. Nice guys finish last.

[BigTron]

I would love to keep Cable, but i agree HC might be a stretch. Im still mad Kwame Harris played the whole season tho, so im holding a little grudge. Our OL specialist was getting our #1 Qb rocked all year. Granted our OL players are below average(im being nice).

I do like his honesty, respect for the franchise and fire. I would not be ultra pissed if he stayed on as HC or OC. But i think we need a guy who can work with QB's at one of those 2 spots.

[Byron2112]

Bones, I understand what you're saying, but also recognize that Cable is trying to get something... anything... going with this sadsack team... at least he's not afraid to try anything, and he knows he doesn't have a long audition to make things happen.

I understand the disappointment, but I think this may be partially a case of what I talked about in another post... about the weight of the last 6 seasons putting a very short fuse on tolerance for anything or anybody that's not fully successful.

I'm not saying Cable definately deserves a shot, but just step back and take a look at the way Al has thrown regimes and philosophies out the window during this run and how that's surved us... we're in the midst of the worst run in NFL history, it's going to take time regardless who is running it, and some boners are going to happen.

[Byron2112]

I don't understand why Al hasn't got some superduper QB guru in here for Russ... if he's going to interfere with the staff and demand certain people stay no matter who doesn't like it, why not go all out for Big Dummy?

[Byron2112]

Watch Kansas City pull a Scott Pioli/Jon Gruden combo while we roll out with Matt Millen/Marc Trestman...



That's not right...

[poptart]

I respect what Cable has done by stepping into a bad situation and keeping things as positive as possible.

I think Al respects that, too.

But we're kidding ourselves if we think Cable holds onto the head coaching spot in Oakland.

I just really don't see it happening.


jmo

[Byron2112]

I agree poptart, this is just for conversation sake.

Al will no doubt do something outta left field.

Looking at Cable though, he's really not much different from Shell as alotta people here described him as a guy that could motivate but would need help with X's & O's...

Shell Mk I.... I mean :D

[Madturk]

Watch Kansas City pull a Scott Pioli/Jon Gruden combo while we roll out with Matt Millen/Marc Trestman...

PFT rumored to have Dickey ( I won't cry) V coming in as GM/VP Operations in KC. Since he's tight with Hermy Boy, he might give him a reprieve. :p That would be the best possible scenario for AFC West rivals. They can have Chuckie who can't draft worth a shit. Pioli has a pretty good gig in New England, it would take something special to get him to bolt IMO.

Really be nice to stick the dagger in Chuckie's back this weekend just like when we beat KC a few years back to knock them out of the playoffs. Gruden's on thin ice in TB. Basically riding Kiff's Sr defense over his tenure there.

Personally, I just assume retain Cable if we're going the re-tread route again. Bring in an innovative OC and a decent DC, purge the roster of malcontents and underachievers and let's just roll with it.

[BigTron]

PFT rumored to have Dickey ( I won't cry) V coming in as GM/VP Operations in KC. Since he's tight with Hermy Boy, he might give him a reprieve. :p That would be the best possible scenario for AFC West rivals. They can have Chuckie who can't draft worth a shit. Pioli has a pretty good gig in New England, it would take something special to get him to bolt IMO.

Really be nice to stick the dagger in Chuckie's back this weekend just like when we beat KC a few years back to knock them out of the playoffs. Gruden's on thin ice in TB. Basically riding Kiff's Sr defense over his tenure there.

Personally, I just assume retain Cable if we're going the re-tread route again. Bring in an innovative OC and a decent DC, purge the roster of malcontents and underachievers and let's just roll with it.

I have to say that Cable got JaMarcus rollin pretty good. As opposed to Kiffin's only pass if its 3 &10+ strategy. Kiff was too conservative and Cable was too aggressive early. Once Cable started to run the ball more and pass it to DMC we started moving it.

[hawaiianboy]

They can have Chuckie who can't draft worth a shit.

Well he was smart enough to listen to me and sign Antonio Bryant :D


Pioli has a pretty good gig in New England, it would take something special to get him to bolt IMO.

I think he's about ready to step out to make his own rep... As much as I despise KC, it would be the ideal situation for him.... Ownership with bazillions of dollars, total control of hiring staff and running the draft and based on how long Peterson and that guy before King Carl held the gig, total job security... Hell, he'd be in position where he could hire Josh McDaniels as his head coach and sign Cassell to be their QB throwing to Bowe, Gonzo and Crabtree...


Really be nice to stick the dagger in Chuckie's back this weekend just like when we beat KC a few years back to knock them out of the playoffs. Gruden's on thin ice in TB. Basically riding Kiff's Sr defense over his tenure there.

I got no hate for Gru, the man saved us from being the Bengals for a 5 year period... No way it ever happens, but I'd love to have him back... I'd settle for bringing Bruce back if Tampa cuts bait with him... Tampa can keep PBuch though...

[Blackened]

My point is that I'm way past caring about a player or a coach who has been a good solider and dedicated to the organization. You're either getting the job done or you're not. It's a business and the business is winning.



That sums it up for me.

[raiderfreak7]

http://www.ibabuzz.com/raidersblog/2008/12/22/cable-ready-to-talk-about-job/#more-3319

Article on Cable lobbying for the job next season.

A day after what the Raiders’ signature performance of the season, coach Tom Cable made his case for removing the “interim” designation from his job title.

When asked about the need for coaching staff continuity, Cable said, “I don’t think there’s any question. In order for it to move forward and be a playoff team next year _ which I believe it will be _ hopefully things will go in the right direction that way. I think it’s very important at this point.”

How soon would you like to hear something from Al Davis?

“Yesterday,” Cable said.

When the season concludes, Davis is obligated to satisfy the Rooney Rule and interview a minority candidate. The commissioner’s office already has squelched the possibility of the Rams hiring interim coach Jim Haslett without going through the process.

Cable, whose contract expires after this year, said he’ll be happy to interview, but didn’t want to discuss whether he would be open to returning as the line coach.

“I think it’s too early to talk about all those things right now, it’s just a matter of what direction he wants to go with the organization,” Cable said.

Like Lane Kiffin before him, Cable conceded he underestimated the effects of a culture where losing has been constant for six years.

“I thought it was a mouse when I took over and it really was an elephant,” Cable said.

Culture was the topic Cable said he addressed in a team meeting.

“The culture of negativity, of losing, of frustration, all those things,” Cable said. “Human beings have a choice. You can either go that way and become negative and become basically a loser.

“Or you can say enough’s enough and find out how to flush your mind, how to get yourself back right and do that collectively as a group and you’ll get what you got yesterday.

“That was really our approach last week. We didn’t really worry about winning and losing. We didn’t worry about a whole lot of anything other than trying to get our minds straight and drop the negative B.S. and just play ball and play for each other and do it right. And maybe that’s what it takes for this team.”

Cable said he is sorry to see the season coming to an end.

“I wish we had some more games to play. We’ve had our struggles and let’s not look by that either because there’s some issues there that still have to be fixed,” Cable said. “But certainly when you play like you did yesterday and you do it the right way and you walk away feeling like not only did we win a game, we did it the right way. We did it in all three phases with great discipline, great effort.”

More news, notes and analysis from Cable’s press briefing and Monday’s locker room session:

– Linebacker Kirk Morrison has grown tired of playing well in four-week intervals.

“We play good once a month, one game a month,” Morrison said. “You’re talking about Kansas City in September, the Jets in October, Denver in November and now this game. So, I definitely want to put back-to-back games (together).”

– Cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha was having tests done for a neck injury which caused him to miss the end of the game. Cable said an examination on the sideline with the medical staff shining a small light in Asomugha’s eyes, as if checking for a concussion, was precautionary.

– Tackle Mario Henderson got another “B-plus” from Cable, who wants to see a little more in the running game. What gratified Cable the most was that Henderson put together back-to-back games, much as he hopes the Raiders will do when they visit Tampa Bay.

“That’s what I was hoping for going into the game, if he could back it up with another good effort
like that and he did it” Cable said. “To me, that’s a breakthrough.”

Henderson said he still has plenty to work on, and regarding the Bucs game, joked, “Anything to help the Raiders get back at the Kiffin family I’m all for it.”

– As much as Cable enjoyed seeing a full strength Darren McFadden change the way teams defend the Raiders by putting him at receiver, he seemed to enjoy another McFadden play even more.

“There’s a play on there, in the second quarter, we’re running to our left in a trips set. He’s the far receiver on the right,” Cable said. “His job is to go get the deepest, furthest safety, and he knocked that guy almost to our sideline.

“It was one of the greatest plays I’ve seen all year. A great play. And it’s just blocking.”

– One of the reasons Cable wants to return _ he is convinced quarterback JaMarcus Russell has turned the corner.

“I’m elated for that kid. You’re going to see, that is a breakthrough game for that guy,” Cable said.“ That was a team that had won four in a row . . . our quarterback went out there, led the team, made great decisions, was on time.

“Man, his movement in the pocket was excellent, his eyes stayed up the field, and his feet were right, and that arm, he just cuts it loose, and I thought he was fabulous.”

– Linebacker Ricky Brown had another setback in attempting to rehab a high groin strain. He and wide receiver Ronald Curry most likely won’t be available for the season finale.

[CrossBones]

Bones, I understand what you're saying, but also recognize that Cable is trying to get something... anything... going with this sadsack team... at least he's not afraid to try anything, and he knows he doesn't have a long audition to make things happen.I agree. It's the only thing he can do because he's desperate. I don't see a lot of that stuff anything other than desperation. Clearly not solid coaching IMO. And, maybe with this collection of players solid coaching isn't possible. Gawd I hope that isn't the case.

I understand the disappointment, but I think this may be partially a case of what I talked about in another post... about the weight of the last 6 seasons putting a very short fuse on tolerance for anything or anybody that's not fully successful.No question abourt it. Raider Fan is feeling trapped. They're feeling like there is no hope to find somebody good to coach this team so let's take the "nice guy" who seems to care. Trouble with that is that he's not HC material any way you want to slice it. I'm just not buying into that anymore whether player or coach. That is why I say I don't give a damn about players or coaches who have been good soldiers. If you can't play or you can't coach good fuckin' bye.

I'm not saying Cable definately deserves a shot, but just step back and take a look at the way Al has thrown regimes and philosophies out the window during this run and how that's surved us... we're in the midst of the worst run in NFL history, it's going to take time regardless who is running it, and some boners are going to happen.Al has made his bed so I guess he has to lie in it. But he's not one to "settle" and that is why I don't think Cable will be the head coach after this year is over. And I'm fine with that.

[Byron2112]

I agree. It's the only thing he can do because he's desperate. I don't see a lot of that stuff anything other than desperation. Clearly not solid coaching IMO. And, maybe with this collection of players solid coaching isn't possible. Gawd I hope that isn't the case.

No question abourt it. Raider Fan is feeling trapped. They're feeling like there is no hope to find somebody good to coach this team so let's take the "nice guy" who seems to care. Trouble with that is that he's not HC material any way you want to slice it. I'm just not buying into that anymore whether player or coach. That is why I say I don't give a damn about players or coaches who have been good soldiers. If you can't play or you can't coach good fuckin' bye.

Al has made his bed so I guess he has to lie in it. But he's not one to "settle" and that is why I don't think Cable will be the head coach after this year is over. And I'm fine with that.

I hear ya bro.

I guess where I'm coming from is I'm not prepared to declare Cable totally incapable of coaching this team... mostly because his short time and I'm no expert in these matters... and he hasn't flagrantly embittered me with his performance yet.

I'm also pretty sure that whoever else might be willing to accept the job won't be discernibly more qualified.

I spose I have pretty low standards at this point... :o

[raiderfreak7]

Chris Mortenson is already reporting that Cable is not an option for next season. Named Todd Haley and Jim Fassell as possible replacements.

Named Lane Kiffin as his source......


















;)

[Byron2112]

Personally, I just assume retain Cable if we're going the re-tread route again. Bring in an innovative OC and a decent DC, purge the roster of malcontents and underachievers and let's just roll with it.

I'd really like to believe we could do this with success...

Do I think that's what Al's got up his sleeve?... not likely.

[RaiderIVlife]

I love this quote:

Henderson said he still has plenty to work on, and regarding the Bucs game, joked, “Anything to help the Raiders get back at the Kiffin family I’m all for it.”

Bwahahahahahahahahhaha

Funny thing, motivation. Seems that BOTH Kiffin & Cable were down on Henderson, and in fact, Cable is still pretty 'on' this kid at time and he certainly made Mario wait for the opportunity, but it's pretty fucking obvious to me that Mario couldn't stand Kiffin with that quote.

[hawaiianboy]

Chris Mortenson is already reporting that Cable is not an option for next season. Named Todd Haley and Jim Fassell as possible replacements.

If Al could pull Haley with all the crap surrounding us the past few years and probably not a glowing recomendation from Whisenhunt, that would actually really impress the hell out of me... I just read an article about Haley yesterday....

Haley would definitely get the passing game revved up, plus he's a big Parcells favorite and he doesn't seem to take any shit judging from his run in with TO in Dallas.... To top it off his deep Steeler roots point to a 34 defense... Maybe he could even expedite a Boldin trade...


To help my 34 cause, he can get current Steelers coach Keith Butler's number from ex-Steelers coach Whisenhunt... or he can call some of the current Cowboys coaches he knows from his time there and hire Wade Phillips to be his 34 DC once Dallas fires him this offseason.... See how that works? ;)



Todd Haley’s success is rooted in tree
By John Tomase Sunday, December 21, 2008

Todd Haley is going to be an NFL head coach one day. And when he gets there, he’ll have a little piece of Bill Belichick with him.

The Cardinals offensive coordinator admits it’s the part his players probably won’t love, and Haley speaks from experience. He wasn’t overly fond of Belichick’s methods a decade ago when Haley was beginning his career with the Jets and Belichick was a defensive coach, but now he understands.

“Belichick is a dry personality and he can rub anybody the wrong way,” Haley said last week from Arizona, where the Cardinals were preparing to face the Patriots [team stats]. “He and I would get into arguments. I’d be running the show team in practice and if the receivers weren’t doing things exactly right, he’d let me have it.

“I’m sitting there thinking, ’Why is this guy always on my (butt)?’ Now that I’ve moved up the ladder, so to speak, I realize why it was so important to him. It’s very clear to me. He was paying attention to every little detail, and that’s so critical.”

Haley took mental notes. A proud member of the Bill Parcells coaching tree and son of legendary personnel man Dick Haley -- an architect of the great Pittsburgh teams of the 1970s -- the former Steelers ballboy who rode to the stadium with current Colts offensive coordinator Tom Moore has carved a niche as a bright offensive mind in his own right.

His name is certain to come up this offseason when head coaching openings arise -- last year he declined a chance to interview with the Dolphins -- but first the 41-year-old is focused on the Patriots and the coach who gave him an immediate assignment after joining the Jets in 1997.

Belichick told Haley to pack his truck with footballs, blocking shields, cones and a camera, because he was hitting the road. Haley scouted every small school east of the Mississippi for two months and stayed in periodic contact with Belichick. He found three players the Jets ended up signing.

“It was my first experience with Coach Belichick and I was grateful he gave me the opportunity to do that,” Haley said. “It was a great learning experience.”

When Haley switched to coaching and began working with the Jets receivers under Charlie Weis, he and Belichick didn’t have much interaction -- unless Haley’s unit screwed up scout team work.

“He might have wanted them to split two yards outside the numbers and the receivers would cut it at one yard,” Haley said. “He didn’t like that, and at the time I wanted to know what the big deal was. I didn’t know anything. I was just hanging on, trying to survive. The details are what it’s all about.”

Belichick and Parcells rode their assistants as hard as their players. Any coach able to survive the gauntlet emerged as a potential leader.

“Working for Parcells is like dog years,” Haley said. “One (year) is like seven. He wears you out. You can’t relax. That’s carried over for me and what I’ve learned is I’m probably becoming a pain in the butt to people. With Parcells, it’s about never getting comfortable and never letting anyone else feel comfortable. That drive is a key to the success of coaches like Parcells and Belichick.

“It’s not about being the players’ friend. It’s not about them liking you. It’s about coaching and pushing those guys as hard as you can push. They may hate you at the time, but they’ll respect you at the end. That’s what you see with Belichick and Bill (Parcells). All their players come back and want to work for them.”

Haley absorbed those lessons. As a wide receivers coach in Chicago in 2002, he turned Marty Booker into the Bears’ first Pro Bowl wideout in over 30 years. He joined Dallas as a wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator, resurrecting embattled ex-Patriots receiver Terry Glenn before helping usher in the Tony Romo Era.

Now he’s getting his shot as a coordinator and making the most of it in his second season with the Cardinals, who rank second in the NFL in passing and scoring. Haley’s offense produced a Pro Bowl first, with quarterback Kurt Warner and wideouts Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald all named starters.

“When they talk about coaching trees, I take great pride in being from Bill Parcells’ tree,” Haley said. “Guys like Belichick and Charlie Weis came from that same tree, and when I’m running this offense, I want to show those guys I know what I’m doing. I want them to take pride in me.”

Haley took a huge risk leaving Dallas for Arizona, a nothing franchise for its entire run in the desert. He trusted head coach Ken Whisenhunt, but he also knew the history of Arizona’s previous eight coaches, only two had found work again after leaving.

“Coming here, you really had to weigh the risk/reward,” Haley said. “It’s been a black hole, the place you go in a forced career move. It’s your last stop or your only stop. I had to put a lot of thought into it, knowing most people hadn’t been able to get it done out here.

“But Ken gave me an opportunity to call plays and we’ve had some success. To see a guy like Kurt experience a total career resurgence is something I’m obviously very proud of, as well as the three Pro Bowl starters.”

Today his offense gets to tackle Belichick’s defense. Some day, Haley may call all of the shots.

“It never started out as a goal, but the further you go, you see some of your peers get (head coaching) jobs,” Haley said. “You see Tony Sparano having some success in Miami, and Ken, we shared an office in New York. Learning from the special coaches I’ve learned from, you start to think, hey, maybe I could have a chance to do this.”

[BigTron]

Sounds like a solid coach. Arizona is playing about as bad as anyone right now however. They totally neglect the run and pass way too much. Like the Eagles and Andy Reid. I think we need to focus on running the ball and stopping the run. Let JR go over the top on PA.

We need to build the D and play championship football. Run. Stop the run. Manage the game and dont turn the ball over. I love what the Ravens are doing right now. Its tough to put points on that D.

[Blackened]

I love what the Ravens are doing right now. Its tough to put points on that D.

I know right. Too bad we got the retarded brother coaching for us.

[Raidermania12]

Any chance in the world that Gruden/Allen/Davis could rekindle their past romance?
No. And an HC of any quality standard is out of our league. We are forever rolling dice on questionable gambles.

[jatfly]

If Cable stays? (which I don't see happening) does that mean Ryan stays?????

I really don't care who the HC is, it would be nice to see the HC stay the same for JaMarcus's sake.......
BUT RYAN MUST GO, and I don't care if he goes away mad!!!!!

[Madturk]

FWIW, apparently John Clayton was reporting on NFL Live that Cable is most likely gone after this season even if he wins this Sunday. Al will keep him on staff while he searches for a new HC and will probably take up until the Senior Bowl to find his replacement. Which means we'll be scraping from the bottom of the barrel again:rolleyes:

[hawaiianboy]

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported this week that Arizona offensive coordinator Todd Haley could be on the Raiders' list of potential coaching candidates. Haley certainly fits the criteria. He is a young and offensive-minded coach. Other potential candidates could include Jim Fassel, Dennis Green, Kevin Gilbride and Jim Haslett.



There's also a rumor floating around that part of Mike Singletary's plan that "wowed" Niners management included Tom Rathman as his possible OC...

[Madturk]

It figures the one guy most want to retain will be leaving for greener pastures. Figure he'll wind up in Seattle with Mora or back in SF.

[Postmaster]

There's also a rumor floating around that part of Mike Singletary's plan that "wowed" Niners management included Tom Rathman as his possible OC...

Why any team would be "wowed" by the running back coach on the league's worst offense as their new OC is interesting.

[Raidermania12]

Actually our running game has been decent in spite of the crappy o-line. Rathman deserves some credit maybe. But either way if he can handle it, good for him.

[s.dot88]

this might not have to do completely with Rathman, but i dont consider our running game to be "good"

we're getting about as much production as we should from a cut-blocking scheme in terms of yards and yards/att, but we have the typical weaknesses of the system. short yardage and good gap control defenses.

anytime we go up against a team that can stop the run, we look like crap and anytime its 3rd or 4th and short or a goal line situation, it seems like the odds are stacked against us in a big way.

i dont consider that a "good" running game, so i wouldnt be all that upset if rathman goes onto an OC position; good for him

[hawaiianboy]

Why any team would be "wowed" by the running back coach on the league's worst offense as their new OC is interesting.


Rathman is said to be a really intelligent, motivating kind of guy... The guy of coach that would seem to be a Singletary kind of guy... For a team that wants to go away from the high risk, protection poor scheme of a Mike Martz and back to a West Coast type of offense they have been known for, getting a Rathman in place wouldn't be a bad idea... I think Singletary wants to run the ball, work the short passing game and play defense and that starts with getting like minded coaches in place...


Even when Singletary had no real experience and no resume, you could listen to him coach in the SR Bowl practices for 5 minutes and know he was going to be a head coach soon... I think Rathman is the same way... He's someone that people will follow IMO... I was hoping we'd give him playcalling responsibilities when we stripped Knapp just to see how he'd do and if Bill walsh's assesment of him was accurate...

Frankly, it wouldn't bother me a bit if Al went outside the box a little and gave the HC job to Rathman even though he doesn't have "coordinator" experience...

[poptart]

I feel the same way about Rathman.

He's a bit of a red @ss, but he's got a winner's "vibe" coming off of him and I think he's the sort of coach that players feel good about following -- the kind of guy who makes other's dicks grow by 2 inches just be being around him.

I don't want to see us lose him.

[RaiderIVlife]

http://www.contracostatimes.com/ci_11321272?source=most_viewed

Davis to act quickly in regard to HC position once season ends? Wouldn't that be nice.

[RaiderIVlife]

Actually our running game has been decent in spite of the crappy o-line. Rathman deserves some credit maybe. But either way if he can handle it, good for him.

I'll agree with this and correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't Fargas go from non descript player to solid starter under Rathman's watch?

[hawaiianboy]

Davis to act quickly in regard to HC position once season ends? Wouldn't that be nice.

Be nice if Al had some kind of actual plan in place...


Do we even dare to dream???

PARCELLS LEAVING THE FINS?
Posted by Mike Florio on December 28, 2008, 12:28 p.m.

ESPN’s Chris Mortensen dropped a major bombshell during the 11:00 a.m. EST hour of Sunday NFL Countdown.

Dolphins V.P. of football operations Bill Parcells could be leaving the team after the current season.

Per Mortensen, Parcells’ contract with the Fins includes an “iron-clad” provision allowing Parcells to receive the balance of his pay and walk away if/when owner Wayne Huizenga surrenders control of the team.

And since Huizenga is in the process of selling the team to Stephen Ross, that day could be coming soon. Per Mortensen, Parcells will have 30 days to exercise his option to walk away, with pay, once Ross finalizes his purchase of a controlling interest in the team.

So, in other words, Parcells would get $12 million for one year of work, and the ability to work his magic as soon as 2009 in another city.

Mort identifies the Jets, Browns, Lions, and Raiders as teams with which Parcells could land. But Mort cautions that Parcells would not want to interfere with any opportunities that his son-in-law, Pats V.P. of player personnel Scott Pioli, might have in cities like Cleveland or Detroit.

And here’s the most important thing to keep in mind about this report. Mortensen’s source undoubtedly was Parcells himself, given that the two men worked together in 2007 at ESPN, where they co-hosted a Friday night radio show. So this is likely getting out now because Parcells wants it to get out now, which means that he’s thinking about walking away with the money and looking for another team in which he can try to turn things around.

Presumably by raiding the Fins’ front office and coaching staff.

[CrossBones]

Somebody already linked that story. I think it was in a sub forum though. :p

[Byron2112]

How can you guys tease me like this?

Bastards...

[massraider]

Be nice if Al had some kind of actual plan in place...


Do we even dare to dream???

PARCELLS LEAVING THE FINS?
Posted by Mike Florio on December 28, 2008, 12:28 p.m.

ESPN’s Chris Mortensen dropped a major bombshell during the 11:00 a.m. EST hour of Sunday NFL Countdown.

Dolphins V.P. of football operations Bill Parcells could be leaving the team after the current season.

Per Mortensen, Parcells’ contract with the Fins includes an “iron-clad” provision allowing Parcells to receive the balance of his pay and walk away if/when owner Wayne Huizenga surrenders control of the team.

And since Huizenga is in the process of selling the team to Stephen Ross, that day could be coming soon. Per Mortensen, Parcells will have 30 days to exercise his option to walk away, with pay, once Ross finalizes his purchase of a controlling interest in the team.

So, in other words, Parcells would get $12 million for one year of work, and the ability to work his magic as soon as 2009 in another city.

Mort identifies the Jets, Browns, Lions, and Raiders as teams with which Parcells could land. But Mort cautions that Parcells would not want to interfere with any opportunities that his son-in-law, Pats V.P. of player personnel Scott Pioli, might have in cities like Cleveland or Detroit.

And here’s the most important thing to keep in mind about this report. Mortensen’s source undoubtedly was Parcells himself, given that the two men worked together in 2007 at ESPN, where they co-hosted a Friday night radio show. So this is likely getting out now because Parcells wants it to get out now, which means that he’s thinking about walking away with the money and looking for another team in which he can try to turn things around.

Presumably by raiding the Fins’ front office and coaching staff.


This is real interesting. Parcells has a relationship with Davis, and I was unaware of this contract term.

i certainly wouldn't call this probable, but possible? Possibly.

[CrossBones]

Yo driver. Any roomn left on the bus?

I have to give Cable credit. He's still trying to make it happen. As somebody mentioned he is one of probably a lot of "1" who wants to be here. Maybe he can get it down if the right coordinators are put in place. Never know.

As HBoy says though we fresh off two wins and the things that made some of us to want Cable replaced have been forgotten. Memories are short. One thing for sure at least we know what we have.

I dunno. I'll defer to the power -- Al?

[massraider]

Yo driver. Any roomn left on the bus?

I have to give Cable credit. He's still trying to make it happen. As somebody mentioned he is one of probably a lot of "1" who wants to be here. Maybe he can get it down if the right coordinators are put in place. Never know.

As HBoy says though we fresh off two wins and the things that made some of us to want Cable replaced have been forgotten. Memories are short. One thing for sure at least we know what we have.

I dunno. I'll defer to the power -- Al?

Biggest thing to me is the players didn't lay down.

There's a lot of questions we have about Cable, but one thing for sure: The players played hard till the end of the year for him.

[CrossBones]

The other thing is that in the last three weeks he has left that deer in the headlights attitude/look in the locker room. He's been a little animated and very competitive. I like that in any head coach.

Again it's a tough call. If the Raiders keep Cable and we jump out 0-3 next year we're going to be bitching and moaning. Problem is there is no guarantee that Fassel, Green or some complete unknown will do any better. A bird in the hand...

[massraider]

A bird in the hand...

This actually sums up my attitude perfectly. just announce next week that he is the guy, and get on with the offseason.

[CrossBones]

Well Cable proved something to me by working hard and not giving up like, ahem, some long time fans. :p

It's a gamble for sure. But with the right coordinators he can lead like he has and it just might work. The next John Madden? Unlikely unless we manufacture about 8 HOF players to join the team soon. John did a lot of good things for the Raiders but having those great players wasn't hard to take either. Madden knew how to handle those personalities and maybe Tom Cable does too.

[BigTron]

I actually dislike Knapp and his "take a nap" offense almost as much as Rob "black sheep"Ryan.

Cable needs to hire an OC who can work with JaMarcus Russell and help run the offense. Let Cable work with the OL and the HC duties primarily and have the OC and his staff gameplan and run the offense under his supervision. We run Rob Ryan and Knapp out of town and install a shiny new 3-4 D!

[massraider]

Here's an intriguing thought:

I would absolutely LOVE if we added Phil Savage to the front office/scouting department.

[Postmaster]

"He was put in as tough a situation as there is," center Jake Grove said. "When Lane quit on this team at about Week 1, and for him to come in and set a standard and hold us to that. ... I'd love to see him here as coach."

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/12/28/SPLO1505PD.DTL

Lance is a punk.

[poptart]

Lance is a puss.

The kid took the team up from 2-14 to 4-12 and he thought he was the cat's meow.
He thought he could call some shots within the organization.

Al slapped him down and then Lance cried and wanted to take his ball and go home.

Was a ridiculous kunt.


I didn't think Cable would retain the head coach spot, but I will now say that I think I was wrong about that.

I believe Al will keep him on.

You've got a team that LOOKS like it might be coming together some, growing up some.
It looks like they WANT to play for Cable.
I don't think you want to cut the legs out from under that.

Keep the good vibe going into the off-season, get an O-Coordinator who can do some things, get your GM in place, draft well, tweek the roster, and let 'er rip.


Things are looking UP in Oakland?

Fingers crossed.

[RaiderIVlife]

Solid, solid, interview with Tom Cable.

http://www.raiders.com/home/

Kevin Gilbride? Paul Hackett? Jim Fassell?

I'll roll with the Cable guy.

[Raidermania12]

I'd still take Harbaugh if the chance came. But kudos to Cable for his wins. There is some mild grain of salt in the wins. But he did win 4 games. I'm still 50/50 on him though.

[s.dot88]

I'd still take Harbaugh if the chance came. But kudos to Cable for his wins. There is some mild grain of salt in the wins. But he did win 4 games. I'm still 50/50 on him though.

i think the Harbaugh talk definitely has some legs. Kawakami has been saying that even though Stanford offered him the extension, he never signed it, which could mean something.

If Harbaugh came in as the HC and somehow kept Cable as the OC, with Rathman as the RB coach; i'd feel pretty good about our offensive staff

[massraider]

i think the Harbaugh talk definitely has some legs. Kawakami has been saying that even though Stanford offered him the extension, he never signed it, which could mean something.

If Harbaugh came in as the HC and somehow kept Cable as the OC, with Rathman as the RB coach; i'd feel pretty good about our offensive staff

The Harbaugh thing stinks to me. Stinks to high heaven.

Stinks like a young coach using the Raiders as leverage to get Stanford to sweeten the pot.

[Madturk]

i think the Harbaugh talk definitely has some legs. Kawakami has been saying that even though Stanford offered him the extension, he never signed it, which could mean something.

If Harbaugh came in as the HC and somehow kept Cable as the OC, with Rathman as the RB coach; i'd feel pretty good about our offensive staff

Well Cable's not going to get a HC gig anywhere else so this scenario is entirely plausible should we not retain him as HC. Almost feel bad demoting him after he kept the team together during a trying season though.

[london raider 2]

As long as he realises Kwame isnt a left tackle & Bush isnt a fullback id back him more

[massraider]

The Harbaugh thing stinks to me. Stinks to high heaven.

Stinks like a young coach using the Raiders as leverage to get Stanford to sweeten the pot.

Scroll on ESPN has the Stanford AD saying all items agreed upon.

[Postmaster]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIgx1gTkRB0

Cable MIC'd up.

Listen to Sapp at the end. What a grade A douche bag. I hope he gets hit by a drunk driver tonight.

[hawaiianboy]

I know everybody is hating on Lance, but the kid is putting together one hell of a staff at Tennessee:


Orgeron accepts associate head coach job at Tennessee

By Bruce Feldman
ESPN.com
(Archive)

Updated: December 31, 2008, 7:04 PM ET


Ed Orgeron is headed to Tennessee.

The former Ole Miss head coach, who spent the 2008 season as the New Orleans Saints defensive line coach, confirmed via text message this afternoon that he has accepted an offer to be the Volunteers recruiting coordinator, defensive line coach and will have the title of associate head coach.

"I'm so excited," Orgeron said via phone. "I get to coach with Monte [Kiffin] and I'm getting to recruit again. It's pedal to the metal and I can't wait to get up there." Orgeron came to his decision after spending the past few days in Destin, Fla., with his family and weighing his options which included an offer in a smiliar role at LSU or staying in New Orleans.

The 47-year-old Louisiana native had been intrgued by the chance to coach at LSU, a school he grew up rooting for. However he was ultimately swayed by the chance to work with new UT coach Lane Kiffin and his father, legendary defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin who also has relocated to Knoxville. Orgeron is expected to make $650,000 making him one of the nation's highest paid assistants.

The move back to the college ranks had been rumored for weeks as it was well known how passionate Orgeron is about the chase of the recruiting trail and the chance to help develop young players.

Widely hailed as one of the top recruiters and defensive line coaches in football, Orgeron also had worked with Lane Kiffin when the pair were part of two national championship teams at USC.

Orgeron, who had learned to evaluate talent in his days at Miami under then-Hurricanes coach Jimmy Johnson and from Pete Carroll, who was the Trojans recruiting coordinator as the program returned to the top of the college football world. As a line coach he has developed first-round picks Cortez Kennedy, Russell Maryland, Warren Sapp and Mike Patterson. He also was responisble for most of the talent that has developed into a top 25 team at Ole Miss this season.

[hawaiianboy]

There's also a rumor floating around that part of Mike Singletary's plan that "wowed" Niners management included Tom Rathman as his possible OC...


And Bingo was his name-O...

Coach Mike Singletary said on his radio show Tuesday that he'd like to speak with Raiders RBs coach Tom Rathman, possibly about the 49ers' vacant offensive coordinator position.

Rathman was Detroit's RBs coach in 2004 when Kevin Jones made the Pro Bowl as a rookie and oversaw 2008's Justin Fargas-Darren McFadden-Michael Bush rotation. A former fullback for the 49ers, Rathman would make a lot of sense in this position. He played against Samurai Mike when Singletary was a Bear.

[gst8]

I heard the interview and he did not state that he would like to speak to Rathman. If anything, he made it sound like Rathman wasn't being considered at all. Not that it might happen anyways... but still.

[Raidermania12]

If we are losing all our staff, I'm more inclined to get Harbaugh in at HC over Cable.

[s.dot88]

If we are losing all our staff, I'm more inclined to get Harbaugh in at HC over Cable.

i agree 100%

even though i was hoping Knapp and Ryan would leave, the Rathman loss stings a little as i thought he would be named OC if Cable was retained

[RaiderIVlife]

i agree 100%

even though i was hoping Knapp and Ryan would leave, the Rathman loss stings a little as i thought he would be named OC if Cable was retained

I guess the speculation could go in any direction. Perhaps Tom Cable presented AD with a plan that did not include Rob Ryan & Tom Rathman and AD agreed?

[s.dot88]

I guess the speculation could go in any direction. Perhaps Tom Cable presented AD with a plan that did not include Rob Ryan & Tom Rathman and AD agreed?

this could be true, and after hearing some of the names that we're linekd with i think you may be onto something

i wouldnt mind a staff of Donatell at DC, Linehan at OC, Scneider back at ST and Cable at the helm