It's Russell Time
James Sheldon |Nov 08,2007
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 It's Russell Time
How long until we see JaMarcus Russell? McCown's gone down, Culpepper's gotten the axe, McCown's back...and the Raiders are still losing. The most unfortunate matter of fact for Raiders fans? The Silver and Black could be winning more games.
Before I prescribe the winning prescription – let's consider...
Clearly, Lane Kiffin has a vision for this team, and that's more than anyone can say about the head coach of this organization since Jon Gruden left for greener pastures and a Super Bowl title. It almost seems as if anyone taking on the role of “head coach” in Oakland is only there to grab some face time, stomach Al Davis for as long as they possibly can and take the next (and better) thing that comes their way. Seriously, how could anyone work for Al Davis for more than a few years? That would be like living the ages of 13-17...twice – acne, awkwardness, false confidence. Digressing.
The future...is now. It's time to see this kid play. If not this week, please, the next. The Raiders are 2-6. Four weeks ago they were 2-2. They're obviously not going to the playoffs, and the only reason I gather as to why they continue to play McCown is to up his potential off-season trade value. And admittedly, that reasoning sucks as bad as...goodness, I don't know, Al Davis' contemporary management skills? It's time. It's time to see what this young, southern gentleman can offer in an Oakland Raiders uniform. The city of Oakland deserves it (Al), Raiders fans deserve it (Davis) and all fantasy owners really want a look (sucks)!
If (and that's a magic if) Russell takes the field in 2007, expect an impressive effort. You bet, he'll make mistakes. What rookie isn't prone to them? Let me rephrase that: What rookie, other than Adrian Peterson, isn't prone to them? Regardless, Russell has a big arm, has incredible poise in the pocket and is as prone to making big plays as he is mistakes.
Football fans are ready to see if the league scored another fantastic LSU alum. (Joseph Addai, Dwayne Bowe, Kevin Faulk, Randall Gay – the list could go on and on), another rookie sensation a la Ben Roethlisberger and Vince Young or the next Ryan Leif. After all the work it took to get the guy signed, as well as the fact that he saw no pre-season action, he needs to pop some NFL pads before this season is a competitive wash. He has the opportunity to get some real game experience under his belt now, which will sink in beautifully during the off-season. Then...then, he'll be poised and ready to lead the Oakland Raiders squad in 2008.
I'm gonna say it again – It's time.
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