Debunking Another Al Davis/Raiders Myth: Eight Seconds To Throw?

First off, I want to state that this article has nothing to do with what slot WR Darrius Heyward-Bey (DHB) was drafted. It's about the bias at ESPN, specifically from "geniuses" Cris Carter and Trent Dilfer. 

Recently at the 2009 NFL Draft, Trent Dilfer gave his opinion on the Oakland Raiders' drafting of WR DHB and how the offense is outdated and not capable of performing because the QB won’t have eight seconds to scan the field.

I sure hope no one actually believes Tom Cable and Al Davis really believe Russell will have seven to eight seconds to sit in the pocket and chuck the ball.

Yes, it's obvious Al loves speed, but does anyone really believe DHB was brought in because it would take him eight seconds to get 80 yards downfield?

I believe it’s because Cable and Al know once DHB beats his man and gets a few steps on him, Russell only needs a few seconds to get the ball out to him for a 40-50 yard pass. 

DHB’s biggest presence on this team won’t be his stats, it’ll be the way he’ll allow single coverage to the other receivers. Teams aren’t going to put DHB in single coverage. They’ll have to double him, because if he gets past anyone, it’s a very high chance (at least 75 percent) he’ll come down with the ball and score a quick six.

Once teams are forced into double coverage for DHB, Schilens, Higgins, Miller, and McFadden/Bush should all shine.

Miller should have plenty of room to get quick five to seven-yard gains, thus keeping the chains going. If the Raiders go to two WRs, they could line up with Schilens/Higgins and DHB and their two-TE set. The play action could be a very tricky situation with a super fast DHB outside.

Obviously, the previous part of this article only referred to the passing game. The Raiders have always used the pass to set up the run and will continue to do so. Bush and McFadden should have plenty of opportunities for big rushing lanes provided DHB forces the D to not stack the box. 

I admit, I wanted Crabtree, but considering he’s a fashion freak and talks to his coach about fashion instead of the game, Crabtree could very well end up a bust if football isn’t his number No. 1 priority. Instead of game tape and learning the playbook, he’ll be looking at fashion BS.

It’s obviously a priority with DHB, and I look forward to seeing what he can do for this team.