Cable and Davis Are Weaving a Stronger Security Blanket for Russell

At times, last season, the Oakland Raider offense looked befuddled, disorganized, and backwards.  Sometimes, I'd watch and wonder, " Can't anyone here play this game?  Surely, you guys played football in college, right?"

It was embarrassing to watch.  Art Shell's offense came to mind.  I love Mr. Shell, and truly hoped he'd return the Silver & Black to greatness.  It didn't happen.  Yet, I'm thankful that Mr. Davis gave him another chance to coach the Raiders.

Then came Lane Kiffin, whom I hoped would be a young genius.  Well, I saw no genius.  I saw an organization and a locker room needing harmony, leadership, and confidence.  Mr. Kiffin's leadership did not fill those needs. 

I was glad to see him go.  The longer he stayed, the worse the atmosphere became.  Not good for a young team, trying to find its way.

After being promoted, Tom Cable began to gradually turn the atmosphere around.  Since the end of the '08 season, the organization has been progressing well.  Sense, confidence, and harmony have returned. 

This dramatic improvement is the new foundation of the Raiders.  So far, Coach Cable's record is a losing one.  Yet, off of the field, is where he's clearly winning!

He and Al Davis have formed a strong partnership.  That partnership is restoring the Raiders' strength.  That strength is showing, in many ways, this off-season.  The so-called, and still called by some," most dysfunctional organization in football", is functioning very well now. 

Looking at free agency...Tom and Al have methodically gathered productive, yet little recognized players.  Knowing that the team has many weaknesses to fix, they've focused on one side of the ball, first. 

Tom Cable's zone-blocking system has improved the performance of the offensive line.  Further improvement is needed to allow the Raiders' skill players to realize their full potential.

At the top of the list is QB Jamarcus Russell.  While his mates, at RB, have benefitted from the ZBS, Russell is yet to.  Run-blocking has been strong, and pass-blocking...not-so-much.  In order for Cable, to get his whole offense going, he needs to get his QB to reach his potential.

A good running game is part of the answer.  However, Russell needs more. Good receivers is one need, and good pass protection is another.

First, they let FA center Jake Grove sign with Miami.  Then, they sign Erik Pears.  Next is Khalif Barnes.  Then, Tom and Al trade for Sampson Satele.  All are experienced veterans.  All have two or more years as starters.  All are experienced in the ZBS. 

The offensive line is being reshaped.  Depth has been added, and talent has been upgraded.  The former offensive line coach is doing his thing.  He's improving his O-line.  Also, the NFL draft is yet to come.

The ultimate goal is to improve Jamarcus Russell!  Russell's pass protection was irratic, last year.  To give his young QB time to read and react to opposing defenses, will allow Russell to fully use his talents. 

This is a high priority for Al and Tom.  A redesigned, strengthened security blanket will give Russell a warm, cozy, and comfortable pocket.  From there, he can truly show what he can do.