DMC breaks away for 45yds against a Cowboy defender
(Photo Courtesy of Associated Press via NFL.com)
Post-game News and Notes
The GOOD:
QB JaMarcus Russell played just 2 series vs. the Dallas 1st unit defense. It was evident Russell’s pocket presence has improved greatly under the tutelage of new quarterbacks coach Paul Hackett. JR managed an efficient in passing attack completing 6 of 9 passes for 50 yds. More importantly, he escaped unscathed in the face of constant pressure. DID YOU SEE the two deep-lobbed passes intended for WRs Schilens and Heyward-Bey? Both were obvious under throws. Not to worry, this chemistry will develop in time (Let err rip JR!). Consistency will be the key in Russell’s development.
WR Chaz Schilens, the second year player out of San Diego State, made his presence known early in the game in becoming the Raiders #1 receiver. Great hands, adjustment to the ball, and the awareness to continue plays impressed coaches enough to cement his status as Russel’s “go-to-guy”.
HB Darren McFadden electrified “the Nation” with his limited touches needing only 3 carries for 63 yds. (long of 45yds). DMC is primed and ready to begin the season.
WR Darrius Heyward-Bey’s top-end speed was on display and Dallas wanted nothing of it; consistently double teaming the rookie in his first two deep passes from Russell. DHB finished the night with 1 catch for 8 yds.
HB Michael Bush: 2 touches 18 yds. Although a holding penalty negated a 9 yd run, Bush ran effectively with the 1st unit O-line. Did you see Bush’s fantastic pass protection?
LT Mario Henderson did a fantastic job facing DE DaMarcus Ware when the 1st units faced off: 0 tackles, 0 sacks, 0 QB pressure.
Second and Third stringers showing some grit:
FS backup Michael Huff had flashes of improvement (1 int), however had a relapse of interference-nidis.
WR Louis Murphy is continuing his hot training camp start by showcasing his separation skills against Dallas backups, although he did not get many looks, the film showed great routes and good blocking skills (albeit the one holding penalty) finishing with 2 catches for 40 yds.
MLB Isaiah Ekejiuba showed promise in his opportunity on the field. Expect this special teams demon to continue to be a force on special teams and contributor in spelling starter Kirk Morrison.
QB Bruce Gradkowski impressed enough to take the lead in his bid to become the Raiders 3rd QB over Charlie Frye.
THE BAD:
HB Justin Fargas: 1 carry 2 yds. A holding penalty does not hide the fact of Fargas’ poor decision to dive over a crowded pile (at the 2 yd line) rather than staying on his feet or attempting to bounce outside. Fargas will need to rebound in practice to warrant more carries with the much hungrier Bush getting more looks in different packages due to his blocking ability.
CB Stanford Routt was burned several times while filling in for injured starter CB Chris Johnson. Routt will need to improve on man coverage or John Bowie may start to get some playing time in Routt’s-assumed nickel package.
Raider Run Defense was outstanding in the first series (mainly due to fantastic special teams play in the opening game field position) and holding bruising HB Marion Barber (4 carries,13yds); however HB Felix Jones exposed the Raiders to speedy
THE UGLY:
The first unit offensive Line had mixed results against Dallas’ first unit defense. Pass protection will be the focus of this upcoming week. Although the first unit surrendered just 1 sack, Raider quarterbacks were constantly under pressure. At times the the run blocking was great for DMC and M-Bush, but not so for Fargas. Penalties again plagued the unit as Dallas’ pressure turned up the heat to test this makeshift unit.
PENALTIES-PENALTIES-PENALTIES continue to plague this young team on both sides of the ball.
Local Blackout and Empty seats.
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