2009 is Time for Tom Cable's Philosphy in Oakland

(Photo by Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images)

When Lane Kiffin assumed the position of head coach and play caller in Oakland he stressed the development of JaMarcus Russell. He did so with extremely conservative play calling with a heavy emphasis on rushing the football.

The result was a thriving rush offense thanks in large part to Tom Cable’s implementation of the zone blocking scheme in Oakland. Cable’s offensive line paved the way for the Raiders rush offense as they went from ranking 29th in 2006 to rush rankings of fourth and 10th in the two seasons that followed.

While the rushing game prospered the passing offense was nothing short of deplorable. In terms of passing yards, the Raiders offense ranked 31^st in 2007 and dead last in 2008. 

Tom Cable took over play calling duties after Greg Knapp who replaced Kiffin as the play caller after Kiffin was fired for cause. Knapp was relieved of the responsibility following an atrocious offensive performance against the Atlanta Falcons in week eight.

Knapp’s offense managed only 77 total yards, only 10 yards coming through the air and the Raiders did not achieve a first down until the latter half of the third quarter.

Tom Cable, now entering his first full season as Raiders head coach, has his chance to put his stamp on the offense. In a recent interview with ESPN, Suzy Kolber asked Cable what the Raiders offensive philosophy was going to be. Tom's response seems simple enough.

“We’re going to run the ball and we’re going to throw it over your head.”

Part A of the equation is clearly the strength of this team. Oakland features one of the NFL’s premier stables of running backs. It is crucial for Cable to properly utilize the skills of all three of his talented backs.

Justin Fargas is a strong player who runs with a great amount of heart and displays an uncanny ability to bounce of the first tackler for extra yards. He is a slash artist who is best utilized running between the tackles. Fargas was the feature back last season but Cable should look to shift the majority of touches to the younger backs in 2009.

Darren McFadden possesses the complete package of top end speed, agility and strength. On top of his elite physical skills he also has a pair of very dependable hands.

He can run between the tackles but look for Cable to take advantage of his talents with a considerably larger number of sweeps and quick screen passes, plays that will get McFadden into the open field where he is a major threat.   

Michael Bush is a big bruiser back who has fluid open field moves and can run by defenders if when he gets to the second level. Bush also has an exceptional ability to catch passes out of the backfield.

His size and power make Bush a big asset in goalline situations. Cable could utilize Bush as a power back to wear down defenses in early quarters, allowing McFadden to dance by defenders on fresh legs later in the game.

The Raiders bolstered their rush attack with the addition of FB Lorenzo Neil who is considered by many to be the best lead blocker in the game today.

Cable also added OT Khalif Barnes, OT Erik Pears, and C Samson Satele in an effort to solidify the offensive line. All three players have ample experience as starters and possess the athleticism required for Cable’s zone blocking system.

The Raiders will be able to run the ball in 2009, but what about part B of Cable’s equation? According to Cable, Oakland drafted the answer this past month. He said this in reference to his new speedster Darrius Heyward-Bey:

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