With running back Michael Bush having thumb surgery Monday, the Raiders may have to turn to Darren McFadden more. In his first preseason action Saturday after coming back from a tight hamstring, McFadden had seven carries for nine yards against the 49ers.
Coach Tom Cable used the word "explosive."
"I saw explosive play, I saw a guy run hard and in between the tackles," Cable said. "You know, it's nice to get him back. You know it's good for him to get his first action. I've said all along that when he's healthy, I think he's very important to what we're trying to do."
McFadden had two catches for 16 yard and another for 24 yards called back because of an illegal formation penalty.
Gradkowski No. 2: Bruce Gradkowski's performance (14-for-22 for 202 yards and two touchdowns) was good enough to hold off any challenge from Kyle Boller for the backup quarterback job.
"He definitely showed himself well and strengthened our football team at the quarterback position," Cable said. "I think he is (the backup). I never said he wasn't."
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