Will he or won’t he.   Oakland Raider’s owner Al Davis has to be used to being  an unpopular guy.   He doesn’t do what other NFL owners do. Ever.  For instance, generally before hiring assistant coaches, an NFL team would confirm or  even hire, their head coach.  And then allow the head coach to hire the offensive and defensive coaches.

Al Davis was reportedly going to fire Tom Cable.  Then he was reported to be interviewing possible replacements.  Then last Saturday, Davis confirmed Cable would stay out his contract. ESPN ran with that.  And then the Raiders declined to confirm.  So depending on which sports channel you get your news from…Cable is either staying, or he’s not.

The decision to hire Hue Jackson as offensive coordinator, certainly shows the Raiders are ready to deal with their lack luster JaMarcus Russell.  The #1 draft pick of 2007, Russell has yet to deliver the goods.  Can Jackson turn him around?  As the Raven’s quarterback coach, Jackson was impressive.   My bet is that Jackson likes a challenge.  And if he can turn Russell around, perhaps he’ll work his way into a top spot on the coaching staff next season.  Perhaps even taking Tom Cable’s spot?

So is JaMarcus Russell to blame for the Raider’s 9 -19 record this year?  Or do we hold Tom Cable responsible?   Hell, does Al Davis hold Cable responsible?  He seems willing to invest in support coaching staffers, hiring Jackson before his job interview with the Chicago Bears.   Now Al, do everyone a favor and take an affirmative stand on Tom Cable.  More in 2010 or no?