by Brian Williams

Created on: September 30, 2008   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

With the termination of Lane Kiffin official, the future of The Raiders has just gotten brighter, but it's going to get worse before it gets better. Most Al Davis critics, and he has had some since he was commissioner of the AFL, will relentlessly antagonise Mr. Davis about his impatience with his head coaches, but HE is in charge. In any work environment, you just can't criticize you boss publicly. When Lane Kiffin made his statements, the writing was on the wall, but he could've saved his job if he'd kept positive communication with his coaching staff, and illustrated a little ball control. Bottom line, a good head coach controls the clock, and Kiffin did not have self control of his game plan. Two fourth quarter meltdowns, with one from a divisional rival, no one team owner will tolerate losses that can lead to small crowds in the stands, and television blackouts.

The future head coach of The Raiders, is uncertain, my guess is Rob Ryan. Ryan has been the defensive co-ordinator for 3 years. The Raiders are the only football team in NFL history, to finish 2-14, and finish 3rd overall in defense. Most teams finish below 20th much less 32nd. So finishing 3rd says alot about who the players are listening to in the locker room. The leading candidate is Offensive Lineman coach Tom Cable, so we'll have to wait for the official word. If this team is going to win, it will have to be with defense. Free agent signing DeAngelo Hall will be a great compliment to Nnamdi Asoumgha once he gets used to the system. The Raiders Linebacker core snatched 10 picks alone last season , and with Kirk Morrison leading the team with over 100 tackles, he can be a threat from both run stopping, and pass defense. Derrick Burgess still has some good years in him, and in his first season as a Raider, he lead the NFL in sacks with 16 two seasons ago.

The pros and cons of The Raiders is simple, Al Davis! Mr. Davis, in my opinion still has a tremendous eye for talent, yet the more talented coaches of The NFL, will not work for Al Davis. With Jamarcus Russell's arm strength, and Darren McFadden's speed and strength combination, The Raiders need a #1 wide receiver and a tight end. Javon Walker is simply put unproven. That is neither good nor bad, maybe Walker will finish strong in later in the season, if not, then years to come, but his slow start leaves The Raiders' offense nothing short of predictable. Direct snaps to McFadden won't work either. The offense needs discipline. Don't "take want

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>