Crossbones
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™ Crossbones 2007
Training Camp...
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™ Crossbones 2007
Angry Pope
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I think this can go here...
Last place not worst place in NFL
July 17, 2007
Do you see anything you like about the Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans, Miami Dolphins or Oakland Raiders in 2007? How about the Arizona Cardinals, Detroit Lions, Tampa Bay Buccaneers or Washington Redskins?
Loserville, right? All eight teams finished in last place of their respective divisions in 2006.
Well, here's a bit of advice this summer as you analyze the division races – find a way to warm up to at least three of those cellar-dwellers.
Parity has taught us that good teams don't stay good and bad teams don't stay bad in the NFL. And sometimes, the turnarounds can be dramatic.
In each of the past four years, three last-place finishers rose up to claim playoff berths the following season. In each of those four years, two of the three teams staged worst-to-first transformations to capture division titles.
Here's a list of those teams that went from last place to first place in the span of one season:
Team 2002 2003 Change
Kansas City 8-8 13-3 +5
Carolina 7-9 11-5 +4
Team 2003 2004 Change
San Diego 4-12 12-4 +8
Atlanta 5-11 11-5 +6
Team 2004 2005 Change
Chicago 5-11 11-5 +6
Tampa Bay 5-11 11-5 +6
Team 2005 2006 Change
New Orleans 3-13 10-6 +7
Philadelphia 6-10 10-6 +4
In addition, here's a list of teams that went from last place to wild-card playoff qualifier in the span of one season:
Team 2002 2003 Change
Dallas 5-11 10-6 +5
Team 2003 2004 Change
NY Jets 6-10 10-6 +4
Team 2004 2005 Change
Washington 6-10 10-6 +4
Team 2005 2006 Change
NY Jets 4-12 10-6 +6
If the trend continues, three last-place finishers in 2006 will continue playing into next January. So give Arizona, Cleveland, Detroit, Houston, Miami, Oakland, Tampa Bay and Washington some consideration as you ponder your preseason picks.
The Buccaneers and Redskins have coaches with Super Bowl rings – Jon Gruden at Tampa Bay and Joe Gibbs at Washington – and both teams were in the playoffs in 2005.
Arizona has a potential franchise quarterback in Matt Leinart, and Miami and Oakland return top-five defenses from 2006.
A talented receiving corps, which includes Texas-ex Roy Williams, could help the Lions rise quickly. If I was a betting man, my money would be on Arizona, Detroit and Tampa Bay making the breakthroughs in 2007. Leinart is a can't-miss player and has Pro Bowl wideouts catching his passes in Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald. At Tampa, Jeff Garcia can give Gruden a Rich Gannon-like presence at quarterback.
The Lions intrigue me because quarterback Jon Kitna will enter his second season in Mike Martz's offense, and Calvin Johnson will be joining a loaded receiving corps that already features Roy Williams and NFC receiving champ Mike Furrey.
Also, the Lions will field a younger, faster defense in Rod Marinelli's second season as head coach.
Last place not worst place in NFL
July 17, 2007
Do you see anything you like about the Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans, Miami Dolphins or Oakland Raiders in 2007? How about the Arizona Cardinals, Detroit Lions, Tampa Bay Buccaneers or Washington Redskins?
Loserville, right? All eight teams finished in last place of their respective divisions in 2006.
Well, here's a bit of advice this summer as you analyze the division races – find a way to warm up to at least three of those cellar-dwellers.
Parity has taught us that good teams don't stay good and bad teams don't stay bad in the NFL. And sometimes, the turnarounds can be dramatic.
In each of the past four years, three last-place finishers rose up to claim playoff berths the following season. In each of those four years, two of the three teams staged worst-to-first transformations to capture division titles.
Here's a list of those teams that went from last place to first place in the span of one season:
Team 2002 2003 Change
Kansas City 8-8 13-3 +5
Carolina 7-9 11-5 +4
Team 2003 2004 Change
San Diego 4-12 12-4 +8
Atlanta 5-11 11-5 +6
Team 2004 2005 Change
Chicago 5-11 11-5 +6
Tampa Bay 5-11 11-5 +6
Team 2005 2006 Change
New Orleans 3-13 10-6 +7
Philadelphia 6-10 10-6 +4
In addition, here's a list of teams that went from last place to wild-card playoff qualifier in the span of one season:
Team 2002 2003 Change
Dallas 5-11 10-6 +5
Team 2003 2004 Change
NY Jets 6-10 10-6 +4
Team 2004 2005 Change
Washington 6-10 10-6 +4
Team 2005 2006 Change
NY Jets 4-12 10-6 +6
If the trend continues, three last-place finishers in 2006 will continue playing into next January. So give Arizona, Cleveland, Detroit, Houston, Miami, Oakland, Tampa Bay and Washington some consideration as you ponder your preseason picks.
The Buccaneers and Redskins have coaches with Super Bowl rings – Jon Gruden at Tampa Bay and Joe Gibbs at Washington – and both teams were in the playoffs in 2005.
Arizona has a potential franchise quarterback in Matt Leinart, and Miami and Oakland return top-five defenses from 2006.
A talented receiving corps, which includes Texas-ex Roy Williams, could help the Lions rise quickly. If I was a betting man, my money would be on Arizona, Detroit and Tampa Bay making the breakthroughs in 2007. Leinart is a can't-miss player and has Pro Bowl wideouts catching his passes in Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald. At Tampa, Jeff Garcia can give Gruden a Rich Gannon-like presence at quarterback.
The Lions intrigue me because quarterback Jon Kitna will enter his second season in Mike Martz's offense, and Calvin Johnson will be joining a loaded receiving corps that already features Roy Williams and NFC receiving champ Mike Furrey.
Also, the Lions will field a younger, faster defense in Rod Marinelli's second season as head coach.
Angry Pope
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Camp Capsules - RBs and FBs
July 17, 2007
The 2007 Oakland Raiders Training Camp is set to open July 27th at the Silver and Black’s Napa Valley Training Complex. We continue the Raiders.com 2007 Raiders Training Camp Capsules series with a look at the running backs. During the next few weeks, we’ll take you through each position leading up to Training Camp 2007.
Michael Bush.│6’1”│245 pounds│23│R│Louisville
Bush was selected by the Raiders in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He rushed for 2,508 yards on 435 attempts, averaging 6.2 yards, and scored 39 touchdowns during his college career at Louisville. Bush also caught 50 passes for 651 yards and two TDs. He set a school record for rushing touchdowns with 23 and points scored with 144 in 2005.
Zack Crockett.│6’2”│240 pounds│34│13│Florida State
Crockett was signed by the Raiders as a free agent in 1999. Crockett entered the NFL as a third round pick of the Indianapolis Colts in 1995. In 2006, he had 39 rushes for 163 yards, and nine receptions for 53 yards. He has played in 174 games since entering the NFL, including a streak of 109 consecutive games played dating back to the fourth game of the 1999 season. For his career, Crockett has 36 rushing touchdowns, 35 of those scores coming since joining the Silver and Black. His 35 career rushing
touchdowns as a Raider ties him for third place all-time in club history
with Mark van Eeghen (Marcus Allen 79, Pete Banaszak 47).
Adimchinobe Echemandu.│5’10”│225 pounds│26│4│California
Echemandu joined the Raiders as a free agent in 2006. He entered the NFL with the Cleveland Browns as a sixth round selection in the 2004 NFL Draft. In four games with the Browns, Echemandu rushed eight times for 25 yards, and caught three passes for 25 yards. He played with the Minnesota Vikings in 2005. In 2006, he saw action on special teams for the Raiders. Echemandu posted 1,434 career rushing yards with 16 TDs during his career at Cal. He ran on the Cal track team along with competing
in football.
Justin Fargas.│6’1”│220 pounds│27│5│USC
Fargas was selected by the Raiders in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft. Fargas rushed 178 times for 659 yards and one TD, and had 13 receptions for 91 yards in 2006. In four NFL seasons, he has rushed for 1,016 yards on 241 carries, scoring one touchdown, and has caught 27 passes for 171 yards. Fargas also returned 16 kickoffs for 315 yards and recorded 23 tackles in coverage. Fargas began his college career at Michigan before transferring to Southern California for his final season. He
gained 1,077 yards with eight touchdowns on 257 carries in
his three-year college career.
Justin Griffith.│6’0”│230 pounds│26│5│Mississippi State
Griffith signed with the Raiders as a free agent on March 10, 2007. He was selected as fourth round draft choice of the Atlanta Falcons in 2003. In 2006, Griffith had 19 rushes for 106 yards and one TD (first rushing TD of his NFL career) for the Falcons. He also caught 23 passes for 168 yards and three TDs. In his four-year NFL career, Griffith has 81 rushes for 378 yards and one TD, and 88 receptions for 621 yards and nine TDs. He was an All-Southeastern Conference first-team selection as a senior, leading the
team with a career-high 471 yards on 91 carries, two TDs, and 19
receptions for 199 yards. He caught 85 passes for 937 yards and four TDs
in additionto 852 yards and 10 TDs on 213 carries in 39 games at
Mississippi State.
LaMont Jordan.│5’10”│230 pounds│28│7│Maryland
Jordan joined the Raiders as a free agent in 2005. Jordan was selected in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. In two years with the Raiders, Jordan has 386 rushing attempts for 1,459 yards and 11 TDs. He has also caught 80 passes for 637 yards and two TDs. He finished his collegiate career as Maryland's all-time leading rusher with 4,147 yards. Jordan also held school records for most rushing attempts (807), 100-yard rushing games (18), total plays from scrimmage (888),
and total yards from scrimmage (4,980) when he left.
ReShard Lee.│5’10”│220 pounds│26│4│Middle Tennessee State
Lee was signed by the Raiders as a free agent in 2006. He entered the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2003. He played with Dallas (2003 – 04) and the Green Bay Packers (2005). With the Raiders in 2006, he rushed 21 times for 72 yards and two TDs, and caught 20 passes for 138 yards. A two-year player at Middle Tennessee State, Lee earned second team All-Sun Belt Conference honors as junior after rushing for 642 yards and six touchdowns.
Oren O’Neal│5’11”│245 pounds│23│R│Arkansas State
O’Neal was selected by the Raiders in the sixth round of the 2007 NFL Draft. In 43 career games at Arkansas State, O’Neal rushed 57 times for 281 yards and four TDs. He also caught 17 passes for 122 yards and three TDs.
Dominic Rhodes.│5’9”│205 pounds│28│7│Midwestern State
Rhodes was signed by the Raiders as an unrestricted free agent on March 9, 2007. He entered the NFL with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent in 2001. Rhodes started all 16 games for the Colts in 2006, rushing 187 times for 641 yards and five TDs, adding 36 receptions for 251 yards. In his six-year NFL career, he has 550 rushing attempts for 2,274 yards and 19 TDs, and 90 receptions for 649 yards and one TD. A two-year standout at Midwestern State University, Rhodes recorded 13 100-yard games in 22 career games. He set the school record with
493 rushes for 2,541 yards and 29 TDs, and 27 receptions for 263 yards
and one TD during his career at Midwestern State.
July 17, 2007
The 2007 Oakland Raiders Training Camp is set to open July 27th at the Silver and Black’s Napa Valley Training Complex. We continue the Raiders.com 2007 Raiders Training Camp Capsules series with a look at the running backs. During the next few weeks, we’ll take you through each position leading up to Training Camp 2007.
Michael Bush.│6’1”│245 pounds│23│R│Louisville
Bush was selected by the Raiders in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He rushed for 2,508 yards on 435 attempts, averaging 6.2 yards, and scored 39 touchdowns during his college career at Louisville. Bush also caught 50 passes for 651 yards and two TDs. He set a school record for rushing touchdowns with 23 and points scored with 144 in 2005.
Zack Crockett.│6’2”│240 pounds│34│13│Florida State
Crockett was signed by the Raiders as a free agent in 1999. Crockett entered the NFL as a third round pick of the Indianapolis Colts in 1995. In 2006, he had 39 rushes for 163 yards, and nine receptions for 53 yards. He has played in 174 games since entering the NFL, including a streak of 109 consecutive games played dating back to the fourth game of the 1999 season. For his career, Crockett has 36 rushing touchdowns, 35 of those scores coming since joining the Silver and Black. His 35 career rushing
touchdowns as a Raider ties him for third place all-time in club history
with Mark van Eeghen (Marcus Allen 79, Pete Banaszak 47).
Adimchinobe Echemandu.│5’10”│225 pounds│26│4│California
Echemandu joined the Raiders as a free agent in 2006. He entered the NFL with the Cleveland Browns as a sixth round selection in the 2004 NFL Draft. In four games with the Browns, Echemandu rushed eight times for 25 yards, and caught three passes for 25 yards. He played with the Minnesota Vikings in 2005. In 2006, he saw action on special teams for the Raiders. Echemandu posted 1,434 career rushing yards with 16 TDs during his career at Cal. He ran on the Cal track team along with competing
in football.
Justin Fargas.│6’1”│220 pounds│27│5│USC
Fargas was selected by the Raiders in the third round of the 2003 NFL Draft. Fargas rushed 178 times for 659 yards and one TD, and had 13 receptions for 91 yards in 2006. In four NFL seasons, he has rushed for 1,016 yards on 241 carries, scoring one touchdown, and has caught 27 passes for 171 yards. Fargas also returned 16 kickoffs for 315 yards and recorded 23 tackles in coverage. Fargas began his college career at Michigan before transferring to Southern California for his final season. He
gained 1,077 yards with eight touchdowns on 257 carries in
his three-year college career.
Justin Griffith.│6’0”│230 pounds│26│5│Mississippi State
Griffith signed with the Raiders as a free agent on March 10, 2007. He was selected as fourth round draft choice of the Atlanta Falcons in 2003. In 2006, Griffith had 19 rushes for 106 yards and one TD (first rushing TD of his NFL career) for the Falcons. He also caught 23 passes for 168 yards and three TDs. In his four-year NFL career, Griffith has 81 rushes for 378 yards and one TD, and 88 receptions for 621 yards and nine TDs. He was an All-Southeastern Conference first-team selection as a senior, leading the
team with a career-high 471 yards on 91 carries, two TDs, and 19
receptions for 199 yards. He caught 85 passes for 937 yards and four TDs
in additionto 852 yards and 10 TDs on 213 carries in 39 games at
Mississippi State.
LaMont Jordan.│5’10”│230 pounds│28│7│Maryland
Jordan joined the Raiders as a free agent in 2005. Jordan was selected in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. In two years with the Raiders, Jordan has 386 rushing attempts for 1,459 yards and 11 TDs. He has also caught 80 passes for 637 yards and two TDs. He finished his collegiate career as Maryland's all-time leading rusher with 4,147 yards. Jordan also held school records for most rushing attempts (807), 100-yard rushing games (18), total plays from scrimmage (888),
and total yards from scrimmage (4,980) when he left.
ReShard Lee.│5’10”│220 pounds│26│4│Middle Tennessee State
Lee was signed by the Raiders as a free agent in 2006. He entered the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2003. He played with Dallas (2003 – 04) and the Green Bay Packers (2005). With the Raiders in 2006, he rushed 21 times for 72 yards and two TDs, and caught 20 passes for 138 yards. A two-year player at Middle Tennessee State, Lee earned second team All-Sun Belt Conference honors as junior after rushing for 642 yards and six touchdowns.
Oren O’Neal│5’11”│245 pounds│23│R│Arkansas State
O’Neal was selected by the Raiders in the sixth round of the 2007 NFL Draft. In 43 career games at Arkansas State, O’Neal rushed 57 times for 281 yards and four TDs. He also caught 17 passes for 122 yards and three TDs.
Dominic Rhodes.│5’9”│205 pounds│28│7│Midwestern State
Rhodes was signed by the Raiders as an unrestricted free agent on March 9, 2007. He entered the NFL with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent in 2001. Rhodes started all 16 games for the Colts in 2006, rushing 187 times for 641 yards and five TDs, adding 36 receptions for 251 yards. In his six-year NFL career, he has 550 rushing attempts for 2,274 yards and 19 TDs, and 90 receptions for 649 yards and one TD. A two-year standout at Midwestern State University, Rhodes recorded 13 100-yard games in 22 career games. He set the school record with
493 rushes for 2,541 yards and 29 TDs, and 27 receptions for 263 yards
and one TD during his career at Midwestern State.
R4Life
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Good Idea AP - I'll put stuff here too:
Position group analysis: special teams
Posted by Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer on July 17th, 2007
(First in a series analyzing Raiders position groups heading into training camp)
Starters: Place kicker_Sebastian Janikowski; Punter_Shane Lechler; Long-snapper_Adam Treu; Return specialist_Chris Carr.
The competition: Long-snappers Jon Condo and Chris Morris; return specialist Johnnie Lee Higgins (rookie).
Possible core special teams players: S Jarrod Cooper, LB Isiah Kacyvenski, LB Isaiah Ekejiuba, CB Stanford Routt, S Stuart Schweigert, S Colin Branch, LB Ricky Brown, S Darnell Bing, TE John Madsen, FB Oren O'Neil, DE Jay Richardson, DB B.J. Ward.
Summary: Janikowski and Lechler are running unopposed. That's fine in Lechler's case, even if he seemed to be aiming many of his kicks for empty seats in the third deck in 2006.
As for Janikowski, not so much.
In seven seasons, Janikowski has never hit 90 percent of his field goal attempts _ a figure which would put him in the upper eschelon of place kickers. Janikowski has hit 90.7 percent of his career attempts (98-for-108) from inside 40 yards and just 59.1 percent (58-for-98) from 40 and beyond.
In other words, he's made most of the kicks he is supposed to make and hasn't come close to being the consistent long-distance threat the Raiders expected.
Remember how Janikowski's endless stream of touchbacks were going to keep opponents deep in their own territory? In the last four seasons, Seabass has hooked 37 touchbacks in 259 kickoffs _ or 14.2 percent.
Janikowski has stayed out of trouble the past few years, but the bottom line is he has performed like a garden variety kicker taken in a later round or signed off the waiver wire, and nothing like the 17th overall selection of the 2000 draft , taken before Chad Pennington (No. 18 to the New York Jets) and Shaun Alexander (No. 19 to Seattle).
Alexander has reached the end zone more times on touchdowns (107) than Janikowski has on touchbacks (85).
Touchbacks were an issue for Lechler last season because he had too many of them. He hammered a career high 19 punts into the end zone with only 19 punts inside the 20-yard-line _ a 50-50 ratio which was by far the worst of his career and came just one season after having just nine touchbacks and 26 punts inside the 20.
Lechler's gross avearge of 47.5 yards was a career high, in part because he looked as if he were engaged in a weekly long-driving contest.
A more competitive team would likely mean a punter more focused on getting good field position.
Brian Schneider, in his first season as an NFL coach, takes over for the hugely unpopular Ted Daisher as special teams coach. Daisher's dictatorial style seemed to pay off during training camp and in the first few games of the season, but as the Raiders went south, special teams play declined as well.
It remains to be seen how coach Lane Kiffin will assemble his roster with regard to special teams. Is he beholden to veterans such as Cooper and Treu, or will newcomers Kacyvenski and Ward become the new leaders?
Which rookies will play prominent roles? Does Higgins replace Carr as either the punt return or kickoff return specialist, or both?
The Raiders pay plenty of lip service to special teams each year, and always seem to come up short. Whether it's the key penalty, the one big return allowed or the killer turnover, inconsistent special teams play has been a constant theme the past four years.
Coming Wednesday: Defensive line
http://www.ibabuzz.com/raidersblog/2007/07/17/position-group-analysis-special-teams/
Position group analysis: special teams
Posted by Jerry McDonald - NFL Writer on July 17th, 2007
(First in a series analyzing Raiders position groups heading into training camp)
Starters: Place kicker_Sebastian Janikowski; Punter_Shane Lechler; Long-snapper_Adam Treu; Return specialist_Chris Carr.
The competition: Long-snappers Jon Condo and Chris Morris; return specialist Johnnie Lee Higgins (rookie).
Possible core special teams players: S Jarrod Cooper, LB Isiah Kacyvenski, LB Isaiah Ekejiuba, CB Stanford Routt, S Stuart Schweigert, S Colin Branch, LB Ricky Brown, S Darnell Bing, TE John Madsen, FB Oren O'Neil, DE Jay Richardson, DB B.J. Ward.
Summary: Janikowski and Lechler are running unopposed. That's fine in Lechler's case, even if he seemed to be aiming many of his kicks for empty seats in the third deck in 2006.
As for Janikowski, not so much.
In seven seasons, Janikowski has never hit 90 percent of his field goal attempts _ a figure which would put him in the upper eschelon of place kickers. Janikowski has hit 90.7 percent of his career attempts (98-for-108) from inside 40 yards and just 59.1 percent (58-for-98) from 40 and beyond.
In other words, he's made most of the kicks he is supposed to make and hasn't come close to being the consistent long-distance threat the Raiders expected.
Remember how Janikowski's endless stream of touchbacks were going to keep opponents deep in their own territory? In the last four seasons, Seabass has hooked 37 touchbacks in 259 kickoffs _ or 14.2 percent.
Janikowski has stayed out of trouble the past few years, but the bottom line is he has performed like a garden variety kicker taken in a later round or signed off the waiver wire, and nothing like the 17th overall selection of the 2000 draft , taken before Chad Pennington (No. 18 to the New York Jets) and Shaun Alexander (No. 19 to Seattle).
Alexander has reached the end zone more times on touchdowns (107) than Janikowski has on touchbacks (85).
Touchbacks were an issue for Lechler last season because he had too many of them. He hammered a career high 19 punts into the end zone with only 19 punts inside the 20-yard-line _ a 50-50 ratio which was by far the worst of his career and came just one season after having just nine touchbacks and 26 punts inside the 20.
Lechler's gross avearge of 47.5 yards was a career high, in part because he looked as if he were engaged in a weekly long-driving contest.
A more competitive team would likely mean a punter more focused on getting good field position.
Brian Schneider, in his first season as an NFL coach, takes over for the hugely unpopular Ted Daisher as special teams coach. Daisher's dictatorial style seemed to pay off during training camp and in the first few games of the season, but as the Raiders went south, special teams play declined as well.
It remains to be seen how coach Lane Kiffin will assemble his roster with regard to special teams. Is he beholden to veterans such as Cooper and Treu, or will newcomers Kacyvenski and Ward become the new leaders?
Which rookies will play prominent roles? Does Higgins replace Carr as either the punt return or kickoff return specialist, or both?
The Raiders pay plenty of lip service to special teams each year, and always seem to come up short. Whether it's the key penalty, the one big return allowed or the killer turnover, inconsistent special teams play has been a constant theme the past four years.
Coming Wednesday: Defensive line
http://www.ibabuzz.com/raidersblog/2007/07/17/position-group-analysis-special-teams/
R4Life
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Um, I'm pretty sure I posted the same information in May and got crushed for it by Bones...
Quote:
Originally Posted by CrossBones
Listen guys, I'm as much enthralled at this point with Kiffin as anybody but honestly we're setting ourselves up for a huge disappointment. This kid is young and raw. Sure he's saying all the right things in May... it's easy. He's taliking tough. we'll see how the players warm to him if we start out 0-5. Reality will come fast and hard. If we're 6-10/7-9 it will be a miracle.
Our offensive line right now, as we speak, is garbage. It's no better today than at the end of the season. To think it's going to come together like magic is just setting ourselves up for a huge let down. We'll be taking baby steps this year IMO.
I'm happy we have the young coach. I m happy we have the franchise QB. I'm just not expecting a worst to first scenario. We had the worst offensive in the league -- maybe the worst offensive in the NFL in the last 10 years. We were 2-14. Reality check.
R4Life
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Here is a satellite photo of the Raiders HQ in Alameda.
if you look to the left you'll see the boys on the field
if you look to the left you'll see the boys on the field
Angry Pope
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That is a nice shot.
Stanny
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Angry Pope
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Three Burning Questions
Can the Raiders' offensive line improve by leaps and bounds?
The Raiders have spent some high picks on the offensive line, yet the production has not been very good. LOT Robert Gallery needs to improve. Second-year OG Paul McQuistan and C Jake Grove also must get better. The biggest question is this: Is the line that bad, or was it just coached poorly? We think it is a combination of both. It was very clear that former offensive coordinator Tom Walsh had no idea how to coordinate the offensive line. Under the tutelage of new offensive coordinator Greg Knapp and veteran offensive line coach Tom Cable, another new addition, the line play will be better. The line will be coordinated better and that will give it a better chance on Sunday. That said, the players also must step up and improve their overall play if the offense is going to take shape and make a drastic improvement.
Camp battle to watch
Veteran QB Josh McCown vs. rookie QB JaMarcus Russell
The first chore of business for the Raiders will be improving an offense that was No. 31 in passing yards per game and No. 32 in points scored. To do that, they will have to get better play at quarterback. The Raiders made a draft-day trade to acquire McCown. He is expected to be the starter based on experience. Russell, on the other hand, is the future of the Raiders at the position. His ability to win the starting job will be based on a few factors. First and foremost, he must get into camp on time. It would be difficult for him to start if he misses too much time in the preseason. Secondly, even if he outplays McCown, will the Raiders allow him to start? The Raiders might be wise to bring him along slowly. We expect that McCown will be the opening-day starter, but he must show the ability to make better decisions and take care of the football. If he can't do that the Raiders will be forced to go to Russell at some point in 2007.
Can Josh McCown get the job done at QB?
After starting games in Arizona from 2003-2005, McCown moved to the Detroit Lions via free agency in 2006. He was the backup in Detroit and did not attempt one pass last season on a team that finished the regular season 3-13. Over his career he has thrown more interceptions (29) than touchdowns (25) and has a QB rating of 72.1. McCown is going to have to play much better. McCown is a very good athlete and can move around the pocket and make plays with both his arm and his feet. However, he needs to improve upon his decision-making skills and leadership abilities greatly if this team is going to make significant progress in 2007.
Is head coach Lane Kiffin too young to get the job done?
We think age is just a number. Sure, he is the youngest head coach in the NFL (32) and definitely has a ton to learn, but all indications are that he is more than ready. The players have talked about the up-tempo style of practices and people within the organization talk about his ability to coach, evaluate and create a good inner-office working environment. Kiffin will take his lumps at times, but it is hard to argue the pedigree. He is the son of one of the best defensive coordinators in the NFL over the past two decades (Tampa Bay's Monte Kiffin) and learned from one of the best college coaches in the game in USC's Pete Carroll. Carroll runs the USC program like a professional franchise in terms of how he treats his players and conducts practices and meetings. Lane Kiffin has brought that mentality with him to the Raiders and everyone from the players to front-office employees is buying into his system. Talent-wise, the Raiders are not quite there yet, but this team will show up and play hard every week
The player under the microscope
Gallery. It would be easy to go with McCown again, but Gallery has been a bust to this point in his career. One thing that can help the Raiders improve on offense is better play up front, which would allow them to control the clock more effectively than they did last season. It is time for Gallery to step up and fulfill his potential and be the dominant player he was in college. We think Gallery will improve with better coaching this season, and once he plays better the rest of the group might follow suit.
Can the Raiders' offensive line improve by leaps and bounds?
The Raiders have spent some high picks on the offensive line, yet the production has not been very good. LOT Robert Gallery needs to improve. Second-year OG Paul McQuistan and C Jake Grove also must get better. The biggest question is this: Is the line that bad, or was it just coached poorly? We think it is a combination of both. It was very clear that former offensive coordinator Tom Walsh had no idea how to coordinate the offensive line. Under the tutelage of new offensive coordinator Greg Knapp and veteran offensive line coach Tom Cable, another new addition, the line play will be better. The line will be coordinated better and that will give it a better chance on Sunday. That said, the players also must step up and improve their overall play if the offense is going to take shape and make a drastic improvement.
Camp battle to watch
Veteran QB Josh McCown vs. rookie QB JaMarcus Russell
The first chore of business for the Raiders will be improving an offense that was No. 31 in passing yards per game and No. 32 in points scored. To do that, they will have to get better play at quarterback. The Raiders made a draft-day trade to acquire McCown. He is expected to be the starter based on experience. Russell, on the other hand, is the future of the Raiders at the position. His ability to win the starting job will be based on a few factors. First and foremost, he must get into camp on time. It would be difficult for him to start if he misses too much time in the preseason. Secondly, even if he outplays McCown, will the Raiders allow him to start? The Raiders might be wise to bring him along slowly. We expect that McCown will be the opening-day starter, but he must show the ability to make better decisions and take care of the football. If he can't do that the Raiders will be forced to go to Russell at some point in 2007.
Can Josh McCown get the job done at QB?
After starting games in Arizona from 2003-2005, McCown moved to the Detroit Lions via free agency in 2006. He was the backup in Detroit and did not attempt one pass last season on a team that finished the regular season 3-13. Over his career he has thrown more interceptions (29) than touchdowns (25) and has a QB rating of 72.1. McCown is going to have to play much better. McCown is a very good athlete and can move around the pocket and make plays with both his arm and his feet. However, he needs to improve upon his decision-making skills and leadership abilities greatly if this team is going to make significant progress in 2007.
Is head coach Lane Kiffin too young to get the job done?
We think age is just a number. Sure, he is the youngest head coach in the NFL (32) and definitely has a ton to learn, but all indications are that he is more than ready. The players have talked about the up-tempo style of practices and people within the organization talk about his ability to coach, evaluate and create a good inner-office working environment. Kiffin will take his lumps at times, but it is hard to argue the pedigree. He is the son of one of the best defensive coordinators in the NFL over the past two decades (Tampa Bay's Monte Kiffin) and learned from one of the best college coaches in the game in USC's Pete Carroll. Carroll runs the USC program like a professional franchise in terms of how he treats his players and conducts practices and meetings. Lane Kiffin has brought that mentality with him to the Raiders and everyone from the players to front-office employees is buying into his system. Talent-wise, the Raiders are not quite there yet, but this team will show up and play hard every week
The player under the microscope
Gallery. It would be easy to go with McCown again, but Gallery has been a bust to this point in his career. One thing that can help the Raiders improve on offense is better play up front, which would allow them to control the clock more effectively than they did last season. It is time for Gallery to step up and fulfill his potential and be the dominant player he was in college. We think Gallery will improve with better coaching this season, and once he plays better the rest of the group might follow suit.
Angry Pope
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AFC West coaching: Shanahan's division
Michael Harmon
Change is inevitable. Change is good. Change is the life force of the NFL.
We welcome new rookies each year. We honor the game's legends at the Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremonies each summer. And, of course, we jump aboard the wild and wacky coaching carousel for another ride.
The AFC West knows change as well as anyone. The division has now turned over three of its four coaches in the past two years, and one of the teams has swapped out coaches twice.
The Raiders turned back the clock to Art Shell ahead of the 2006 season, but a number of issues conspired to make his second tour of duty with the squad a short one. The Chargers waved goodbye to Marty Schottenheimer after another shortened playoff run. And prior to last season, the Chiefs handed the reins over to Herman Edwards.
There is only one constant under the headset in this division, and he resides in Denver. Mike Shanahan is the longest-tenured coach in the NFL following the retirement of Bill Cowher from the Steelers. That's where I begin this look at the coaches of the AFC West.
Denver Broncos: Mike Shanahan
Offensive analysis
The brilliance of the Denver offensive scheme has been well-chronicled, and the effectiveness of the running game is a thing of fantasy legend. In his last 15 years of coaching, his offense has ranked in the top four on 10 occasions and the running game, no surprise, has produced more yardage than any other team in the NFL. Additionally, the Broncos have averaged more than 25 points per game through the past decade.
Run
The running game has produced a 1,000-yard rusher in 11 of the last 12 years, turning unheralded players into fantasy superstars (Olandis Gary or Reuben Droughns, anyone?). It's not a matter of whether the Denver running back will find success, it's merely a matter of whose name is on the jersey. Last season, Tatum Bell led the attack with more than 1,000 yards, and rookie Mike Bell produced 4.3 yards per carry and eight touchdowns. In 2007, former Titans back Travis Henry will lead this unit. He produced 1,200 rushing yards for Tennessee last season. His injury history is somewhat of a concern, but Mike Bell's presence assures that this squad will remain among one of the league's most potent running attacks. The blocking scheme creates gaping holes and rewards patient backs. Critics may deride the methods and question the legality of the blocks on occasion, but nobody can deny its effectiveness.
Pass
For all the press the running attack receives, and deservedly so, the Denver passing game also thrived under former coordinator Gary Kubiak. Naturally, having Hall of Famer John Elway at the controls in the late-1990s didn't hurt, but the team continued its success with quarterbacks Brian Griese and Jake Plummer. Plummer struggled terribly last season (13 interceptions versus 11 touchdowns) and was replaced by rookie Jay Cutler. The Broncos figure to use Cutler's big right arm with more regularity this season, allowing him to properly utilize the big play threat of Javon Walker and rising option Brandon Marshall. The one concern for the offense is that several receivers are coming off of extensive injuries (Rod Smith, Domenik Hixon and Brandon Stokley) and Marshall has experienced a series of nagging injuries of his own. To that end, the team added red zone monster Daniel Graham to join Tony Scheffler at tight end. They'll factor into the play-calling to aid in Cutler's development.
Who benefits? Mike Bell, Travis Henry, Javon Walker
Sleeper: Brandon Marshall
Past stars: Mike Anderson, Terrell Davis, Reuben Droughns, Brian Griese
Defensive analysis
The defense has also enjoyed tremendous success under Shanahan, having ranked in the Top 10 in each of the last four seasons. Like the precision of the offense, defense under Shanahan is all about executing assignments. Players know their roles and play within the system.
Run
The key to the defense's success is shutting down the running game. The Denver defense has ranked in the top 12 against the run in nine of the past 11 seasons. They allowed 113.3 rushing yards per game (12th) and 13 touchdowns on the ground in 2006. The team is banking on dividends from off-season acquisition Sam Adams to help shore up the middle and put the opposition in third-and-long situations.
Pass
The efficiency of the Denver offense often puts opposing teams into passing situations early in games. As such, the team typically ranks in the lower half of the NFL in passing yards allowed but cinches up in the red zone to stop scoring threats. Champ Bailey will team up with Dre' Bly to form perhaps the league's best corner combo. Nick Ferguson and hard-hitting veteran John Lynch man the safety positions. The team will move forward without longtime linebacker Al Wilson, leaving Eddie Moore and Warrick Holdman to compete for a starting role alongside Ian Gold and budding star D.J. Williams.
Who benefits? Champ Bailey, Dre' Bly, D.J. Williams
Past stars: Trevor Pryce, Bill Romanowski
Kansas City Chiefs: Herman Edwards
Offensive analysis
Edwards loves to work the power ground game to wear down defenses, run clock and put the game in the hands of his defense. At times, he has been criticized for perhaps being too conservative in his approach. He relies heavily on a single-back offense and a short passing game with infrequent looks downfield. He'll need his running game to produce in a big way once again this year as he breaks in a new starting quarterback in second-year quarterback Brodie Croyle or turns back to longtime backup Damon Huard.
Run
The basic approach to the game under Edwards will suit Larry Johnson just fine. Edwards works his tailback hard, which means Johnson's high carry total from 2006 will be matched if he's signed and ready to roll in Week 1. His adherence to a single-back system was called into question with the Jets in 2004 with LaMont Jordan anxiously awaiting his chance behind Curtis Martin. Martin responded with his first rushing title. Johnson will be spelled by veteran Michael Bennett, who was little-used in 2006, and some combination of rookie Kolby Smith and NFL Europe Co-MVP Derrick Ross. Ross is one to watch as camp unfolds, as he could shoot up into the backup role.
Pass
The offensive line has undergone a number of changes over the past several seasons, with injuries and retirements changing the complexion of the offense. The Chiefs will need this new unit to gel quickly, not only for the sake of Johnson, but also for the health and prosperity of the new quarterback tandem. The team continues to rely heavily on tight end Tony Gonzalez. He'll be the focal point for Croyle or Huard as the team seeks to find a consistent receiving target behind Eddie Kennison. Samie Parker is a deep threat and Dwayne Bowe has the goods to be a star in short order. Expect a heavy dose of the running game and short passes to start with an occasional shot downfield.
Who benefits? Tony Gonzalez, Larry Johnson, Eddie Kennison
Sleeper: Samie Parker
Past stars: Laveranues Coles, Curtis Martin, Santana Moss
Defensive analysis
As a former defensive back in the NFL, Edwards works tirelessly to prepare his secondary for the rigors of the season. He's a coach who actually engages in drills to demonstrate proper technique and execution. The hands-on approach brings questions and bewilderment from those watching practices, but it helps him connect with players and earns their respect. He preaches execution and stresses the need to finish plays and hawk to the ball.
Run
The Chiefs ranked in the middle of the pack against the run last season (120.5 yards per game). They're counting on the addition of Alfonso Boone from Chicago and the selection of Tank Tyler to help shore things up. The team did receive a boost with news of Jared Allen's suspension being reduced to two weeks. That will help him work opposite top 2006 pick Tamba Hali to rise in the rankings.
Pass
The Chiefs pass defense ranked 18th last season at 208.4 yards per game and 18 touchdowns allowed, a vast improvement over their 2005 total. The additions of Ty Law and Patrick Surtain helped the unit to clamp down in the red zone (11th in the NFL at 19.7 points per game), and they stand to be even better with veterans Napoleon Harris and tackling machine Donnie Edwards joining the fray. The team has little depth at cornerback, so an injury could be catastrophic to this unit's hopes.
Who benefits? Donnie Edwards, Napolean Harris, Derrick Johnson, Ty Law
Past stars: Ronde Barber, Ty Law, Jonathan Vilma
cont'd..
Michael Harmon
Change is inevitable. Change is good. Change is the life force of the NFL.
We welcome new rookies each year. We honor the game's legends at the Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremonies each summer. And, of course, we jump aboard the wild and wacky coaching carousel for another ride.
The AFC West knows change as well as anyone. The division has now turned over three of its four coaches in the past two years, and one of the teams has swapped out coaches twice.
The Raiders turned back the clock to Art Shell ahead of the 2006 season, but a number of issues conspired to make his second tour of duty with the squad a short one. The Chargers waved goodbye to Marty Schottenheimer after another shortened playoff run. And prior to last season, the Chiefs handed the reins over to Herman Edwards.
There is only one constant under the headset in this division, and he resides in Denver. Mike Shanahan is the longest-tenured coach in the NFL following the retirement of Bill Cowher from the Steelers. That's where I begin this look at the coaches of the AFC West.
Denver Broncos: Mike Shanahan
Offensive analysis
The brilliance of the Denver offensive scheme has been well-chronicled, and the effectiveness of the running game is a thing of fantasy legend. In his last 15 years of coaching, his offense has ranked in the top four on 10 occasions and the running game, no surprise, has produced more yardage than any other team in the NFL. Additionally, the Broncos have averaged more than 25 points per game through the past decade.
Run
The running game has produced a 1,000-yard rusher in 11 of the last 12 years, turning unheralded players into fantasy superstars (Olandis Gary or Reuben Droughns, anyone?). It's not a matter of whether the Denver running back will find success, it's merely a matter of whose name is on the jersey. Last season, Tatum Bell led the attack with more than 1,000 yards, and rookie Mike Bell produced 4.3 yards per carry and eight touchdowns. In 2007, former Titans back Travis Henry will lead this unit. He produced 1,200 rushing yards for Tennessee last season. His injury history is somewhat of a concern, but Mike Bell's presence assures that this squad will remain among one of the league's most potent running attacks. The blocking scheme creates gaping holes and rewards patient backs. Critics may deride the methods and question the legality of the blocks on occasion, but nobody can deny its effectiveness.
Pass
For all the press the running attack receives, and deservedly so, the Denver passing game also thrived under former coordinator Gary Kubiak. Naturally, having Hall of Famer John Elway at the controls in the late-1990s didn't hurt, but the team continued its success with quarterbacks Brian Griese and Jake Plummer. Plummer struggled terribly last season (13 interceptions versus 11 touchdowns) and was replaced by rookie Jay Cutler. The Broncos figure to use Cutler's big right arm with more regularity this season, allowing him to properly utilize the big play threat of Javon Walker and rising option Brandon Marshall. The one concern for the offense is that several receivers are coming off of extensive injuries (Rod Smith, Domenik Hixon and Brandon Stokley) and Marshall has experienced a series of nagging injuries of his own. To that end, the team added red zone monster Daniel Graham to join Tony Scheffler at tight end. They'll factor into the play-calling to aid in Cutler's development.
Who benefits? Mike Bell, Travis Henry, Javon Walker
Sleeper: Brandon Marshall
Past stars: Mike Anderson, Terrell Davis, Reuben Droughns, Brian Griese
Defensive analysis
The defense has also enjoyed tremendous success under Shanahan, having ranked in the Top 10 in each of the last four seasons. Like the precision of the offense, defense under Shanahan is all about executing assignments. Players know their roles and play within the system.
Run
The key to the defense's success is shutting down the running game. The Denver defense has ranked in the top 12 against the run in nine of the past 11 seasons. They allowed 113.3 rushing yards per game (12th) and 13 touchdowns on the ground in 2006. The team is banking on dividends from off-season acquisition Sam Adams to help shore up the middle and put the opposition in third-and-long situations.
Pass
The efficiency of the Denver offense often puts opposing teams into passing situations early in games. As such, the team typically ranks in the lower half of the NFL in passing yards allowed but cinches up in the red zone to stop scoring threats. Champ Bailey will team up with Dre' Bly to form perhaps the league's best corner combo. Nick Ferguson and hard-hitting veteran John Lynch man the safety positions. The team will move forward without longtime linebacker Al Wilson, leaving Eddie Moore and Warrick Holdman to compete for a starting role alongside Ian Gold and budding star D.J. Williams.
Who benefits? Champ Bailey, Dre' Bly, D.J. Williams
Past stars: Trevor Pryce, Bill Romanowski
Kansas City Chiefs: Herman Edwards
Offensive analysis
Edwards loves to work the power ground game to wear down defenses, run clock and put the game in the hands of his defense. At times, he has been criticized for perhaps being too conservative in his approach. He relies heavily on a single-back offense and a short passing game with infrequent looks downfield. He'll need his running game to produce in a big way once again this year as he breaks in a new starting quarterback in second-year quarterback Brodie Croyle or turns back to longtime backup Damon Huard.
Run
The basic approach to the game under Edwards will suit Larry Johnson just fine. Edwards works his tailback hard, which means Johnson's high carry total from 2006 will be matched if he's signed and ready to roll in Week 1. His adherence to a single-back system was called into question with the Jets in 2004 with LaMont Jordan anxiously awaiting his chance behind Curtis Martin. Martin responded with his first rushing title. Johnson will be spelled by veteran Michael Bennett, who was little-used in 2006, and some combination of rookie Kolby Smith and NFL Europe Co-MVP Derrick Ross. Ross is one to watch as camp unfolds, as he could shoot up into the backup role.
Pass
The offensive line has undergone a number of changes over the past several seasons, with injuries and retirements changing the complexion of the offense. The Chiefs will need this new unit to gel quickly, not only for the sake of Johnson, but also for the health and prosperity of the new quarterback tandem. The team continues to rely heavily on tight end Tony Gonzalez. He'll be the focal point for Croyle or Huard as the team seeks to find a consistent receiving target behind Eddie Kennison. Samie Parker is a deep threat and Dwayne Bowe has the goods to be a star in short order. Expect a heavy dose of the running game and short passes to start with an occasional shot downfield.
Who benefits? Tony Gonzalez, Larry Johnson, Eddie Kennison
Sleeper: Samie Parker
Past stars: Laveranues Coles, Curtis Martin, Santana Moss
Defensive analysis
As a former defensive back in the NFL, Edwards works tirelessly to prepare his secondary for the rigors of the season. He's a coach who actually engages in drills to demonstrate proper technique and execution. The hands-on approach brings questions and bewilderment from those watching practices, but it helps him connect with players and earns their respect. He preaches execution and stresses the need to finish plays and hawk to the ball.
Run
The Chiefs ranked in the middle of the pack against the run last season (120.5 yards per game). They're counting on the addition of Alfonso Boone from Chicago and the selection of Tank Tyler to help shore things up. The team did receive a boost with news of Jared Allen's suspension being reduced to two weeks. That will help him work opposite top 2006 pick Tamba Hali to rise in the rankings.
Pass
The Chiefs pass defense ranked 18th last season at 208.4 yards per game and 18 touchdowns allowed, a vast improvement over their 2005 total. The additions of Ty Law and Patrick Surtain helped the unit to clamp down in the red zone (11th in the NFL at 19.7 points per game), and they stand to be even better with veterans Napoleon Harris and tackling machine Donnie Edwards joining the fray. The team has little depth at cornerback, so an injury could be catastrophic to this unit's hopes.
Who benefits? Donnie Edwards, Napolean Harris, Derrick Johnson, Ty Law
Past stars: Ronde Barber, Ty Law, Jonathan Vilma
cont'd..
Angry Pope
All Raider
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cont'd...
Oakland Raiders: Lane Kiffin
Offensive analysis
The return to Oakland for Art Shell lasted only a season, as the Raiders battled internally and failed to put up much of a fight on the field. Young Lane Kiffin was hired as his replacement, and he'll be looking to jumpstart an offense that produced a miserable 10.5 points per game last season. That meant trading Randy Moss, bringing in a former pupil in Mike Williams and overhauling the quarterback position.
Run
The Raiders struggled terribly on the ground last year, producing the fourth-worst total in the game (94.9 yards per game). The offensive line failed to step forward, prompting the team to hire Tom Cable, who takes on the task of bringing Robert Gallery and Jake Grove to their potential. The team added veterans Cooper Carlisle and former 49er Jeremy Newberry to shore up the line. If Newberry is healthy, he could help to open holes for the combination of LaMont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes (once he returns from a four-game suspension). Perhaps the most important acquisition toward improving the running game was the signing of fullback Justin Griffith, who was long an important cog in the vaunted Atlanta running attack.
Pass
The quarterback position has undergone an overhaul as well, with JaMarcus Russell coming aboard with the No. 1 pick. The team also dealt for Josh McCown, who would appear to be the leader as camp begins. This unit will look to forget the brutality of 2006, where the quarterbacks (Aaron Brooks and Andrew Walter) spent far too much time on their backs. Shell failed to utilize Jordan as a receiver out of the backfield, something that made him one of 2005's biggest breakout starts. Moss is gone, leaving Jerry Porter as the No. 1 receiver with a number of oft-injured and unproven players behind him. The team will look for someone to step forward from the pack of Ronald Curry, Johnnie Morant, Johnnie Lee Higgins, Travis Taylor, Alvis Whitted and former Lions No. 1 pick of the Lions, Williams.
Who benefits? LaMont Jordan, Jerry Porter, Dominic Rhodes
Sleeper: Dominic Rhodes, Mike Williams
Past stars: Reggie Bush, Matt Leinart, Mike Williams
Defensive analysis
The Raiders were one of the best units against the pass. Of course, those numbers are skewed by the fact they helpless against the run last year (134 yards per game). The team therefore made defense a high priority in their off-season efforts.
Run
Warren Sapp made noise this off-season when he showed up for mini-camp some 50 pounds lighter than his 2006 playing weight. He'll team with sackmaster Derrick Burgess and Terdell Sands to try and cut into those lopsided run numbers from last year. Of course, they'll need some help from the offense and their backups (most notably Tyler Brayton and Tommy Kelly) to stay fresh and effective. Second-year linebacker Thomas Howard has the size and speed to be a star.
Pass
As mentioned above, the pass defense ranked first in yardage allowed. Nnamdi Asomugha was a breakout star in the interception department, and Fabian Washington is coming into his own in his third season. The team also has a plethora of talent at safety. Michael Huff and Stuart Schweigart will work alongside off-season acquisitions Darnell Bing, Colin Branch and Donovin Darius. If the run defense improves, the Raiders have playmakers to create turnovers in the secondary.
Who benefits? Nnamdi Asomugha, Derrick Burgess
Past stars: Howie Long, Terry McDaniel, Greg Townsend
San Diego Chargers: Norv Turner
Offensive analysis
Evidently, a record of 14-2 and a boatload of points wasn't enough for the Chargers, as Marty Schottenheimer was let go after another shortened playoff run. Norv Turner, who owns a career head coaching record of 54-82, will be called upon to push this team onward to Arizona (Super Bowl site). The team hardly changed at all, with the exception of veteran Keenan McCardell's release.
Run
What else is there to say? Turner installed the offense that has centered around LaDainian Tomlinson since the 2001 season. Tomlinson rushed for 1,815 yards last season and will once again handle a tremendous workload. Michael Turner was re-signed as LT's backup, and while he may push for a few more carries after his strong 2006 performance, he won't eat into Tomlinson's carries very much. The system isn't broken, so there were no radical fixes made here.
Pass
Philip Rivers acquitted himself nicely in his first year as a starting quarterback in 2006. Quarterbacks have historically played brilliantly under Turner, and one can only expect the Pro Bowler to get even better this season. The team also added former fantasy hero Billy Volek as a tremendous backup option. Antonio Gates remains the top option in the passing game with the ability to line up all over the field and dominate in the red zone. The team will be looking for other options to step forward in the passing game in place of the departed McCardell. Vincent Jackson showed flashes last season, and 6-foot-5 Malcom Floyd is awfully imposing down low. They will be joined by veteran Eric Parker and rookie Craig Davis in the rotation.
Who benefits? Antonio Gates, Vincent Jackson, LaDainian Tomlinson
Sleeper: Malcom Floyd, Vincent Jackson
Past stars: Troy Aikman, Doug Flutie, Emmitt Smith, LaDainian Tomlinson, Ricky Williams
Defensive analysis
The Chargers rely heavily on their pass rush to set things in motion. They attack up front with Shawne Merriman and ends Luis Castillo and Igor Olshansky. The offense scores in buckets, offering this unit the opportunity to pin their ears back and rush the quarterback.
Run
San Diego ranked seventh in the NFL in run defense, allowing 100.8 rushing yards per game last season. Nose tackle Jamal Williams anchors the unit and clogs the middle, allowing the linebacking corps to finish off plays. The team will count on Matt Wilhelm to replace the departed Donnie Edwards, who led the team in tackles in five straight seasons.
Pass
The pass rush is impressive to say the least, racking up sacks with great regularity (61) and offering the secondary ample opportunities to make plays. Merriman is one of the game's most imposing forces in the game, racking up 17 sacks in spite of a suspension. He'll be ready to roll after off-season surgery. Merriman teams with Castillo and Olshansky to form one of the game's most formidable pass rushes. The team saw Antonio Cromartie improve markedly as the season progressed. He'll team with Quentin Jammer, Drayton Florence and rookie Eric Weddle to form a better secondary than they've seen in years.
Who benefits? Luis Castillo, Quentin Jammer, Shawne Merriman, Igor Olshansky
Past stars: Champ Bailey, Marco Coleman, Dana Stubblefield
Oakland Raiders: Lane Kiffin
Offensive analysis
The return to Oakland for Art Shell lasted only a season, as the Raiders battled internally and failed to put up much of a fight on the field. Young Lane Kiffin was hired as his replacement, and he'll be looking to jumpstart an offense that produced a miserable 10.5 points per game last season. That meant trading Randy Moss, bringing in a former pupil in Mike Williams and overhauling the quarterback position.
Run
The Raiders struggled terribly on the ground last year, producing the fourth-worst total in the game (94.9 yards per game). The offensive line failed to step forward, prompting the team to hire Tom Cable, who takes on the task of bringing Robert Gallery and Jake Grove to their potential. The team added veterans Cooper Carlisle and former 49er Jeremy Newberry to shore up the line. If Newberry is healthy, he could help to open holes for the combination of LaMont Jordan and Dominic Rhodes (once he returns from a four-game suspension). Perhaps the most important acquisition toward improving the running game was the signing of fullback Justin Griffith, who was long an important cog in the vaunted Atlanta running attack.
Pass
The quarterback position has undergone an overhaul as well, with JaMarcus Russell coming aboard with the No. 1 pick. The team also dealt for Josh McCown, who would appear to be the leader as camp begins. This unit will look to forget the brutality of 2006, where the quarterbacks (Aaron Brooks and Andrew Walter) spent far too much time on their backs. Shell failed to utilize Jordan as a receiver out of the backfield, something that made him one of 2005's biggest breakout starts. Moss is gone, leaving Jerry Porter as the No. 1 receiver with a number of oft-injured and unproven players behind him. The team will look for someone to step forward from the pack of Ronald Curry, Johnnie Morant, Johnnie Lee Higgins, Travis Taylor, Alvis Whitted and former Lions No. 1 pick of the Lions, Williams.
Who benefits? LaMont Jordan, Jerry Porter, Dominic Rhodes
Sleeper: Dominic Rhodes, Mike Williams
Past stars: Reggie Bush, Matt Leinart, Mike Williams
Defensive analysis
The Raiders were one of the best units against the pass. Of course, those numbers are skewed by the fact they helpless against the run last year (134 yards per game). The team therefore made defense a high priority in their off-season efforts.
Run
Warren Sapp made noise this off-season when he showed up for mini-camp some 50 pounds lighter than his 2006 playing weight. He'll team with sackmaster Derrick Burgess and Terdell Sands to try and cut into those lopsided run numbers from last year. Of course, they'll need some help from the offense and their backups (most notably Tyler Brayton and Tommy Kelly) to stay fresh and effective. Second-year linebacker Thomas Howard has the size and speed to be a star.
Pass
As mentioned above, the pass defense ranked first in yardage allowed. Nnamdi Asomugha was a breakout star in the interception department, and Fabian Washington is coming into his own in his third season. The team also has a plethora of talent at safety. Michael Huff and Stuart Schweigart will work alongside off-season acquisitions Darnell Bing, Colin Branch and Donovin Darius. If the run defense improves, the Raiders have playmakers to create turnovers in the secondary.
Who benefits? Nnamdi Asomugha, Derrick Burgess
Past stars: Howie Long, Terry McDaniel, Greg Townsend
San Diego Chargers: Norv Turner
Offensive analysis
Evidently, a record of 14-2 and a boatload of points wasn't enough for the Chargers, as Marty Schottenheimer was let go after another shortened playoff run. Norv Turner, who owns a career head coaching record of 54-82, will be called upon to push this team onward to Arizona (Super Bowl site). The team hardly changed at all, with the exception of veteran Keenan McCardell's release.
Run
What else is there to say? Turner installed the offense that has centered around LaDainian Tomlinson since the 2001 season. Tomlinson rushed for 1,815 yards last season and will once again handle a tremendous workload. Michael Turner was re-signed as LT's backup, and while he may push for a few more carries after his strong 2006 performance, he won't eat into Tomlinson's carries very much. The system isn't broken, so there were no radical fixes made here.
Pass
Philip Rivers acquitted himself nicely in his first year as a starting quarterback in 2006. Quarterbacks have historically played brilliantly under Turner, and one can only expect the Pro Bowler to get even better this season. The team also added former fantasy hero Billy Volek as a tremendous backup option. Antonio Gates remains the top option in the passing game with the ability to line up all over the field and dominate in the red zone. The team will be looking for other options to step forward in the passing game in place of the departed McCardell. Vincent Jackson showed flashes last season, and 6-foot-5 Malcom Floyd is awfully imposing down low. They will be joined by veteran Eric Parker and rookie Craig Davis in the rotation.
Who benefits? Antonio Gates, Vincent Jackson, LaDainian Tomlinson
Sleeper: Malcom Floyd, Vincent Jackson
Past stars: Troy Aikman, Doug Flutie, Emmitt Smith, LaDainian Tomlinson, Ricky Williams
Defensive analysis
The Chargers rely heavily on their pass rush to set things in motion. They attack up front with Shawne Merriman and ends Luis Castillo and Igor Olshansky. The offense scores in buckets, offering this unit the opportunity to pin their ears back and rush the quarterback.
Run
San Diego ranked seventh in the NFL in run defense, allowing 100.8 rushing yards per game last season. Nose tackle Jamal Williams anchors the unit and clogs the middle, allowing the linebacking corps to finish off plays. The team will count on Matt Wilhelm to replace the departed Donnie Edwards, who led the team in tackles in five straight seasons.
Pass
The pass rush is impressive to say the least, racking up sacks with great regularity (61) and offering the secondary ample opportunities to make plays. Merriman is one of the game's most imposing forces in the game, racking up 17 sacks in spite of a suspension. He'll be ready to roll after off-season surgery. Merriman teams with Castillo and Olshansky to form one of the game's most formidable pass rushes. The team saw Antonio Cromartie improve markedly as the season progressed. He'll team with Quentin Jammer, Drayton Florence and rookie Eric Weddle to form a better secondary than they've seen in years.
Who benefits? Luis Castillo, Quentin Jammer, Shawne Merriman, Igor Olshansky
Past stars: Champ Bailey, Marco Coleman, Dana Stubblefield
Raidermania12
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Langlier
Settle Down...
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they all starred in USCs O
Raidermania12
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I get that. But they are listed under past stars.
for example:
Broncos
Do you understand my
now?
raiderfreak7
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They were past stars under Kiffin in college.
Angry Pope
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Training camp report for ten years ago for the AFC West...
1997
AFC West - Training Camp Report
DENVER
Where: Greeley, Colo. When: Rookies and veterans July 16.
Preseason priority: The teem went after the Chiefs' Neil Smith to improve the pass rush and added his teammate, Keith Traylor, for more bulk inside. The team led the NFL in rush defense, with Michael Dean Perry and Alfred Williams leading the way, so the ex-Chiefs weren't brought in to improve that. They came in to provide a pass rush. The team finished 12th in sacks.
X's and O's: The team proved how much it wants to improve its pass rush by hiring assistant coach John Teerlinck from Detroit. The scheme, however, will not change. The team will remain an attacking, aggressive defense in which the line opens holes for the linebackers and safeties to make tackles. However, Teerlinck and defensive line coach George Dyer hope to get more sacks from the other side of the line. Williams and Perry combined for 16 1/2 sacks. Dan Williams and Mike Lodish, now retired, had 2 1/2.
Keep an eye on: Rod Smith replaces Anthony Miller at wide receiver. He has great hands and underrated speed and is a film-room junkie. John Elway has been sacked fewer times the last two years than in any two-year period of his 14-year career because he had two veteran tackles in Gary Zimmerman and Broderick Thompson. They're both gone and have been replaced by Tony Jones, a free agent from Baltimore, and third-year pro Jamie Brown, who has started all of two games. This position must be solid with Elway now 37. As a highly touted rookie, John Mobley had a steady year, but he didn't make enough big plays. He must become an impact linebacker in camp. Newcomer Darrien Gordon is a key because the team hasn't returned a punt for a touchdown in 10 years and Gordon could show in camp that he could break the streak this season.
Take it to the bank: Jeff Lewis will emerge as Elway's backup. Lewis played third string behind Elway and Bill Musgrave as a rookie. However, Musgrave is coming off shoulder surgery and Lewis showed signs of brilliance in last year's exhibition season. Lewis is being groomed as Elway's successor. He has the speed veterans Musgrave and fourth-stringer Bubby Brister lost a long time ago.
KANSAS CITY
Where: River Falls, Wis. When: Rookies and veterans July 18.
Preseason priority: The team signed a new quarterback (Elvis Grbac) and two new starting wide receivers (Brett Perriman and Andre Rison) drafted a pass-receiving tight end (Tony Gonzalez) in the first round and promoted a former No. 1 pick (Greg Hill) to starter at halfback. The moves guarantee a new starter in at least five of the six offensive skill positions. The key will be how quickly these new elements mesh.
X's and O's: The new personnel should allow the Chiefs to go downfield with far more efficiency. Grbac throws the deep ball better than any Chiefs quarterback in recent memory. Perriman and Rison were signed for their ability to separate from coverage and make yards after the catch. Gonzalez was drafted and tight end Ted Popson signed for their ability to draw coverage away from the perimeter receivers. The running game will utilize more sweeps and perimeter plays to take advantage of Hill's speed and quickness. The defense will employ many of the same zone-blitz tactics that Pittsburgh and Carolina have used so successfully. The new scheme is designed around Derrick Thomas, who has shifted to end and will be asked to make up for some of the sack production lost with the free-agent defection of Neil Smith.
Keep an eye on: For all the attention given to the offense, the maneuvering on defense is just as dramatic: The Chiefs could have six new starters there. But because the team will lose size in the transition, it could be vulnerable against power running teams. The team needs a big year from Thomas, who says he believes 20 sacks is reasonable from his new position. Young safeties Jerome Woods and Reggie Tongue (if he wins the job) need to mature quickly. Camp issues on offense include whether Rison and Perriman are still top-flight receivers and how well tackles Jeff Criswell and Trezelle Jenkins can protect Grbac.
Take it to the bank: Considering coordinator Gunther Cunningham's love of speed, don't be surprised if second-year defenders Donnie Edwards and Tongue win starting jobs. Edwards is battling incumbent Tracy Simien at inside linebacker. Tongue is competing with veteran Kevin Ross.
OAKLAND
Where: Napa, Calif. When: Rookies and veterans July 19.
Preseason priority: The team must establish reliable pass protection for quarterback Jeff George. Talk all you want about George's lightning-quick release and great right arm; they're irrelevant if he is peeling grass from his face mask. The offensive line absorbed one major change--guard Kevin Gogan departed for the 49ers via free agency. His likely replacement is Lester Holmes, a 1993 first-round draft choice of the Eagles. Holmes joins a strong run-blocking line, with tackles Pat Harlow and Lincoln Kennedy, guard Steve Wisniewski and promising center Barret Robbins. But the line needs to improve on pass protection.
X's and O's: The team will try to stretch the field, throwing more 12-to-20-yard passes. Also look for George to frequently throw deep to his swift receivers. Establishing a power-running game is key. That could provide a nice complement to Napoleon Kaufman's sweeps.
Keep an eye on: Kaufman, Harvey Williams and Joe Aska, who form an interesting backfield. This is Kaufman's time to burst into stardom, leaving Williams in a modified fullback's role. Coordinator Ray Perkins faces a distinct challenge in spreading the ball around while still highlighting Kaufman and his gamebreaking quickness. The defensive line has more able bodies than starting jobs. Top draft choice Darrell Russell should step into the lineup immediately, joining Chester McGlockton and Russell Maryland in providing a strong presence against the run. But can they generate a pass rush? The team needs to cause more havoc in the secondary. Much of the burden falls on free safety Eric Turner, who was signed as a free agent. Turner hopes to revive his history of flying to the ball and causing turnovers.
Take it to me bank: Second-year end Lance Johnstone will keep his starting job and solidify himself as the team's top pass rusher. The Raiders prefer Johnstone and his youth, promise and modest salary-cap number to Pat Swilling. Johnstone who started the final 10 games last season, offers striking quickness in rushing the passer and a stout presence against the run. He could be come a star.
cont'd
1997
AFC West - Training Camp Report
DENVER
Where: Greeley, Colo. When: Rookies and veterans July 16.
Preseason priority: The teem went after the Chiefs' Neil Smith to improve the pass rush and added his teammate, Keith Traylor, for more bulk inside. The team led the NFL in rush defense, with Michael Dean Perry and Alfred Williams leading the way, so the ex-Chiefs weren't brought in to improve that. They came in to provide a pass rush. The team finished 12th in sacks.
X's and O's: The team proved how much it wants to improve its pass rush by hiring assistant coach John Teerlinck from Detroit. The scheme, however, will not change. The team will remain an attacking, aggressive defense in which the line opens holes for the linebackers and safeties to make tackles. However, Teerlinck and defensive line coach George Dyer hope to get more sacks from the other side of the line. Williams and Perry combined for 16 1/2 sacks. Dan Williams and Mike Lodish, now retired, had 2 1/2.
Keep an eye on: Rod Smith replaces Anthony Miller at wide receiver. He has great hands and underrated speed and is a film-room junkie. John Elway has been sacked fewer times the last two years than in any two-year period of his 14-year career because he had two veteran tackles in Gary Zimmerman and Broderick Thompson. They're both gone and have been replaced by Tony Jones, a free agent from Baltimore, and third-year pro Jamie Brown, who has started all of two games. This position must be solid with Elway now 37. As a highly touted rookie, John Mobley had a steady year, but he didn't make enough big plays. He must become an impact linebacker in camp. Newcomer Darrien Gordon is a key because the team hasn't returned a punt for a touchdown in 10 years and Gordon could show in camp that he could break the streak this season.
Take it to the bank: Jeff Lewis will emerge as Elway's backup. Lewis played third string behind Elway and Bill Musgrave as a rookie. However, Musgrave is coming off shoulder surgery and Lewis showed signs of brilliance in last year's exhibition season. Lewis is being groomed as Elway's successor. He has the speed veterans Musgrave and fourth-stringer Bubby Brister lost a long time ago.
KANSAS CITY
Where: River Falls, Wis. When: Rookies and veterans July 18.
Preseason priority: The team signed a new quarterback (Elvis Grbac) and two new starting wide receivers (Brett Perriman and Andre Rison) drafted a pass-receiving tight end (Tony Gonzalez) in the first round and promoted a former No. 1 pick (Greg Hill) to starter at halfback. The moves guarantee a new starter in at least five of the six offensive skill positions. The key will be how quickly these new elements mesh.
X's and O's: The new personnel should allow the Chiefs to go downfield with far more efficiency. Grbac throws the deep ball better than any Chiefs quarterback in recent memory. Perriman and Rison were signed for their ability to separate from coverage and make yards after the catch. Gonzalez was drafted and tight end Ted Popson signed for their ability to draw coverage away from the perimeter receivers. The running game will utilize more sweeps and perimeter plays to take advantage of Hill's speed and quickness. The defense will employ many of the same zone-blitz tactics that Pittsburgh and Carolina have used so successfully. The new scheme is designed around Derrick Thomas, who has shifted to end and will be asked to make up for some of the sack production lost with the free-agent defection of Neil Smith.
Keep an eye on: For all the attention given to the offense, the maneuvering on defense is just as dramatic: The Chiefs could have six new starters there. But because the team will lose size in the transition, it could be vulnerable against power running teams. The team needs a big year from Thomas, who says he believes 20 sacks is reasonable from his new position. Young safeties Jerome Woods and Reggie Tongue (if he wins the job) need to mature quickly. Camp issues on offense include whether Rison and Perriman are still top-flight receivers and how well tackles Jeff Criswell and Trezelle Jenkins can protect Grbac.
Take it to the bank: Considering coordinator Gunther Cunningham's love of speed, don't be surprised if second-year defenders Donnie Edwards and Tongue win starting jobs. Edwards is battling incumbent Tracy Simien at inside linebacker. Tongue is competing with veteran Kevin Ross.
OAKLAND
Where: Napa, Calif. When: Rookies and veterans July 19.
Preseason priority: The team must establish reliable pass protection for quarterback Jeff George. Talk all you want about George's lightning-quick release and great right arm; they're irrelevant if he is peeling grass from his face mask. The offensive line absorbed one major change--guard Kevin Gogan departed for the 49ers via free agency. His likely replacement is Lester Holmes, a 1993 first-round draft choice of the Eagles. Holmes joins a strong run-blocking line, with tackles Pat Harlow and Lincoln Kennedy, guard Steve Wisniewski and promising center Barret Robbins. But the line needs to improve on pass protection.
X's and O's: The team will try to stretch the field, throwing more 12-to-20-yard passes. Also look for George to frequently throw deep to his swift receivers. Establishing a power-running game is key. That could provide a nice complement to Napoleon Kaufman's sweeps.
Keep an eye on: Kaufman, Harvey Williams and Joe Aska, who form an interesting backfield. This is Kaufman's time to burst into stardom, leaving Williams in a modified fullback's role. Coordinator Ray Perkins faces a distinct challenge in spreading the ball around while still highlighting Kaufman and his gamebreaking quickness. The defensive line has more able bodies than starting jobs. Top draft choice Darrell Russell should step into the lineup immediately, joining Chester McGlockton and Russell Maryland in providing a strong presence against the run. But can they generate a pass rush? The team needs to cause more havoc in the secondary. Much of the burden falls on free safety Eric Turner, who was signed as a free agent. Turner hopes to revive his history of flying to the ball and causing turnovers.
Take it to me bank: Second-year end Lance Johnstone will keep his starting job and solidify himself as the team's top pass rusher. The Raiders prefer Johnstone and his youth, promise and modest salary-cap number to Pat Swilling. Johnstone who started the final 10 games last season, offers striking quickness in rushing the passer and a stout presence against the run. He could be come a star.
cont'd
Angry Pope
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cont'd...
SAN DIEGO
Where: La Jolla, Calif. When: Rookies and veterans July 18.
Preseason priority: Running back? How about flashback? The team is banking on two backs returning to their 1993 forms in lifting the team's running game out of the doldrums. Gary Brown and Erric Pegram, two 1,000 yard rushers four seasons ago, promise there's not much rust on their chassis. But their recent history shows injuries and layoffs. If a back emerges and the line blocks with more consistency, coach Kevin Gilbride will have something to set up his pass-happy offense. At least there are few worries at fullback with veterans Carwell Gardner and Aaron Craver on board.
X's and O's: Gilbride burned the team's predictable offensive playbook and installed his--which includes everything this side of a pure run-and-shoot. Gilbride loves to pass and that might be a requirement if the running game falters. Pro Bowl performer Tony Martin, Eric Metcalf and other receivers are excited about beefing up their numbers. But much of Gilbride's passing game hinges on the receiver and quarterback making adjustments during the play. Quarterback Stan Humphries is being asked to re-invent himself after nine years in a two-tight end run-oriented offense. On defense coordinator Joe Pascale swears his unit will be aggressive and not afraid of taking risks to get up field.
Keep an eye on: Eric Metcalf. The team thinks the versatile and speedy Metcalf can disrupt defenses from the slot position. He also will return punts, where he is one of the as-time best, and is out to prove that he should have received more interest in free agency. He is the perfect fit in Gilbride's offense, which takes advantage of quick receivers in short routes. Also, don't overlook Bryan Still. He answered to "Stiff" last year after the team squandered a No. 1 pick to draft him in the second round. He played timidly and looked lost most of the time, but he has added some muscle and says his attitude will be better. If so, he could wind up the starter opposite Martin and a key part of Gilbride's offense.
Take it to me bank: Huge Troy Sienkiewicz, whose '96 season was derailed by a serious neck injury, should be a starter at guard. A third-year player, he can dominate if he is healthy.
SEATTLE
Where: Cheney, Wash. When: Rookies and veterans July 15.
Preseason priority: Dennis Erickson must turn up the pace. Starters must come together in camp and the team needs a quick, winning start. To spur unity and toughen his team, Erickson moved camp from cool, comfortable Seattle to hot, arid eastern Washington. Defensive coordinator Greg McMackin has the toughest task. He must blend talents of five new starters: cornerbacks Shawn Springs and Willie Williams, linebacker Chad Brown, safety Bennie Blades and end Antonio Edwards (unless he is beaten out by Phillip Daniels). The offense must rally around quarterback John Friesz. The team has gone six years without a winning season while trying to break in quarterbacks drafted in the first round (Dan McGwire and Rick Mirer). Now, it has no time for uncertainty.
X's and O's: Friesz and backup Warren Moon will have an expanded but simple playbook. Erickson stripped passing plays to the basics for Mirer. That's not Erickson's style. He loves deploying four and five receivers. Expect more crossing patterns and for the team to react better to blitzes. Halfback Chris Warren, healthier and happier after a massive ankle bone spur was removed, expects at least a 1,200-yard season. Joey Galloway moves from split end to flanker, where his participation will be increased. Though it lost the quick outside rush of end Michael McCrary on first and second downs, the team should pressure quarterbacks with the inside power and quickness of tackles Sam Adams and Cortez Kennedy. Pro Bowl end Michael Sinclair will also be key to the pressure game. The aggressive style will feature zone blitzes from Brown, more eight-man fronts to stuff the run and lots of games to confuse offenses.
Keep an eye on: Twice in the past decade, the offense suffered while breaking in a rookie left tackle. But Walter Jones' smooth, athletic style should minimize sacks. Another key is right tackle Howard Ballard, who must avoid a chronic knee problem.
Take it to the bank: Springs is a rookie of the year candidate and could help make free safety Darryl Williams a Pro Bowl player. Springs has Deion-type ability and an engaging personality
SAN DIEGO
Where: La Jolla, Calif. When: Rookies and veterans July 18.
Preseason priority: Running back? How about flashback? The team is banking on two backs returning to their 1993 forms in lifting the team's running game out of the doldrums. Gary Brown and Erric Pegram, two 1,000 yard rushers four seasons ago, promise there's not much rust on their chassis. But their recent history shows injuries and layoffs. If a back emerges and the line blocks with more consistency, coach Kevin Gilbride will have something to set up his pass-happy offense. At least there are few worries at fullback with veterans Carwell Gardner and Aaron Craver on board.
X's and O's: Gilbride burned the team's predictable offensive playbook and installed his--which includes everything this side of a pure run-and-shoot. Gilbride loves to pass and that might be a requirement if the running game falters. Pro Bowl performer Tony Martin, Eric Metcalf and other receivers are excited about beefing up their numbers. But much of Gilbride's passing game hinges on the receiver and quarterback making adjustments during the play. Quarterback Stan Humphries is being asked to re-invent himself after nine years in a two-tight end run-oriented offense. On defense coordinator Joe Pascale swears his unit will be aggressive and not afraid of taking risks to get up field.
Keep an eye on: Eric Metcalf. The team thinks the versatile and speedy Metcalf can disrupt defenses from the slot position. He also will return punts, where he is one of the as-time best, and is out to prove that he should have received more interest in free agency. He is the perfect fit in Gilbride's offense, which takes advantage of quick receivers in short routes. Also, don't overlook Bryan Still. He answered to "Stiff" last year after the team squandered a No. 1 pick to draft him in the second round. He played timidly and looked lost most of the time, but he has added some muscle and says his attitude will be better. If so, he could wind up the starter opposite Martin and a key part of Gilbride's offense.
Take it to me bank: Huge Troy Sienkiewicz, whose '96 season was derailed by a serious neck injury, should be a starter at guard. A third-year player, he can dominate if he is healthy.
SEATTLE
Where: Cheney, Wash. When: Rookies and veterans July 15.
Preseason priority: Dennis Erickson must turn up the pace. Starters must come together in camp and the team needs a quick, winning start. To spur unity and toughen his team, Erickson moved camp from cool, comfortable Seattle to hot, arid eastern Washington. Defensive coordinator Greg McMackin has the toughest task. He must blend talents of five new starters: cornerbacks Shawn Springs and Willie Williams, linebacker Chad Brown, safety Bennie Blades and end Antonio Edwards (unless he is beaten out by Phillip Daniels). The offense must rally around quarterback John Friesz. The team has gone six years without a winning season while trying to break in quarterbacks drafted in the first round (Dan McGwire and Rick Mirer). Now, it has no time for uncertainty.
X's and O's: Friesz and backup Warren Moon will have an expanded but simple playbook. Erickson stripped passing plays to the basics for Mirer. That's not Erickson's style. He loves deploying four and five receivers. Expect more crossing patterns and for the team to react better to blitzes. Halfback Chris Warren, healthier and happier after a massive ankle bone spur was removed, expects at least a 1,200-yard season. Joey Galloway moves from split end to flanker, where his participation will be increased. Though it lost the quick outside rush of end Michael McCrary on first and second downs, the team should pressure quarterbacks with the inside power and quickness of tackles Sam Adams and Cortez Kennedy. Pro Bowl end Michael Sinclair will also be key to the pressure game. The aggressive style will feature zone blitzes from Brown, more eight-man fronts to stuff the run and lots of games to confuse offenses.
Keep an eye on: Twice in the past decade, the offense suffered while breaking in a rookie left tackle. But Walter Jones' smooth, athletic style should minimize sacks. Another key is right tackle Howard Ballard, who must avoid a chronic knee problem.
Take it to the bank: Springs is a rookie of the year candidate and could help make free safety Darryl Williams a Pro Bowl player. Springs has Deion-type ability and an engaging personality
Angry Pope
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Morant's thoughts right before his first training camp...
Angry Pope
All Raider
- Joined
- Feb 2, 2006
- Messages
- 8,458
- Reaction score
- 546
Doug Gabriel training camp 2004...
Angry Pope
All Raider
- Joined
- Feb 2, 2006
- Messages
- 8,458
- Reaction score
- 546
Jake Grove..same deal...