Oakland Raider Analysis: Raiders offensive line a major concern

July 29, 9:12 PMOakland Raiders ExaminerPatrick Patterson

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"In Tom Cable we trust" has been the Raider mantra through this past offseason. Cable seemed to work miracles with the development of the offensive line prior to last season, so the Nation has placed their trust in him to get it right for another season. The Nation wanted an upgrade at left tackle over the now departed Barry Sims and the Nation was not happy when it turned out his replacement was Kwame Harris who had been a major bust in San Francisco. The early reports out of training camp are not very promising when it comes to the play of the offensive line, and the Nation is holding its collective breath that Cable will get things set right. The biggest targets of criticism thus far have been the offensive tackles.  The Raider defensive line has reportedly had their way with Harris, right tackle Cornell Green, and third tackle Mario Henderson.

Derrick Burgess is a two time pro bowler and elite pass rusher, so it is to be expected that he is going to be spending time in the offensive backfield. The problem is that the other defensive ends have been doing much the same. If JaMarcus Russell is not given the time to throw, he is not going to be successful. A perfect example of that is Andrew Walter's performance in 2006. He was on his back before he finished his seven step drop, and quickly fell from being the anointed "quarterback of the future" to an afterthought. Despite his predraft hype and mega contract, Russell could easily suffer the same fate if he does not get the support from his line.

Paul McQuistan, the third year player out of Weber State, played very well at right tackle last season, outplaying the more established Green. It does not make sense that Kiffin is playing him primarily at guard, rather than having him push Green at right tackle and potentially making the position his.

Tom Cable showed himself to be a miracle worker last season, but the Raider Nation can turn on him fast if the line is not up to snuff this season. If they see Russell being continually harassed by opposing defenders, things will turn hostile for both Russell and Cable. There are now weapons in place for a big season, but only if the offensive line does their job.