RealClearSports: Leinart's Role as Raider: Advise, Back Up

By Art Spander
For RealClearSports.com

ALAMEDA, Calif. — A Matt Leinart bobblehead, with the likeness attired in an Arizona Cardinals uniform, can be found on the Internet at prices ranging from $28 to $80. Leinart may have been a disappointment — the word "bust'' is simply too harsh — but he has not gone unrecognized.

Or, once more, unwanted.

Read the full story here.

© RealClearSports 2012

RealClearSports: Raiders New GM Proclaims 'New Era'

By Art Spander
For RealClearSports.com

OAKLAND – The little analysis of Hue Jackson by Al Davis is right there in the Oakland Raiders media guide. “The fire in Hue,’’ said Davis, “will set a flame that will burn for a long time in the hearts and minds of the Raider football team and Raider nation.’’

It was snuffed out, however, by Al’s son, Mark, who took over the team upon Al’s death.

On Tuesday, Mark Davis hired Reggie McKenzie from the Green Bay Packers as general manager, the position Al held de facto for decades.

Read the full story here.

© RealClearSports 2012

RealClearSports: Oakland Teams Find There's No There There

By Art Spander
For RealClearSports.com

OAKLAND, Calif. – She didn’t mean what we thought she meant. Gertrude Stein’s infamous quote about this town, “There is no there there,’’ was misinterpreted. The intent of teams that, like Stein, called Oakland home is well understood, however.

They can’t wait to get out.

Stein, the poet, author and art collector...

Read the full story here.

© RealClearSports 2011

SF Examiner: It all comes down to one game for the Oakland Raiders

By Art Spander
Special to The Examiner

Oh, those Raiders. So many penalties. “After the flags, guys come up to me on the sidelines, and say, that’s what happens when you play for the Raiders,”  mused quarterback Carson Palmer.

Oh those Raiders, blown out by Green Bay, giving up a late lead to Detroit, ranked fourth-worst in the NFL in total defense.

Oh those Raiders...

Read the full story here.

Copyright 2011 SF Newspaper Company

SF Examiner: When big plays are needed, Raiders are unable to deliver

By Art Spander
Special to The Examiner

The Raiders had the game, and then they didn’t.

“We let it slip,” Raiders safety Tyvon Branch said.

They had the game, then the Detroit Lions had it.

“We can’t finish,” said Oakland coach Hue Jackson. “To say I’m disappointed is an understatement.”

Read the full story here.

Copyright 2011 SF Newspaper Company