Raiders coach Mike White's decision not to talk to out-of-
town writers and the team's banning of a Sports Illustrated
reporter from their practice facility is likely to draw an
official protest from the Pro Football Writers of America,
according to today's SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE. With a possible
connection to the fact the former Raiders coach Art Shell is now
on the Chiefs' staff, the Raiders released a video of a
"rambling" 12-minute statement from White in lieu of the usual
conference call. In addition, the team is reportedly "angry"
over questions asked by SI staff writer Michael Silver. Silver
is said to be working on a story that would cast Raiders Owner Al
Davis "in an unfavorable light." PFWA President Len Pasquarelli:
"In a cumulative sense, the Raiders' actions may be
unprecedented. They represent a long history of breeches of the
league's media policy. The PFWA has discussed this matter with
the league and will seek in writing substantial financial
penalties against the Raiders." Pasquarelli was hopeful such
fines would count against the Raiders' salary cap. Raiders
spokesperson Mike Taylor said that Silver had been labeled a
"troublemaker" by people inside and outside the organization and
that he was seeking to "divide" the team. Taylor: "We provided
him total access for the past three months. Enough is enough."
Silver, on Davis: "It's no secret this team's current media
relations are horrible. This is just another example" (Ron
Kroichick, S.F. CHRONICLE, 9/14).
