Rolando McClain impressing in Oakland

Oakland Raiders rookie middle linebacker Rolando McClain is off to a good start, impressing the coaching staff with his instincts, maturity and hitting ability.

So far, so good for the first-round draft pick

"I see a lot of things that make you think he's a lot more mature beyond his age in terms of being a football player," Raiders coach Tom Cable said. He's very well-schooled. When he came here, he's got an understanding of the game that is unique.

"But the most impressive thing has been, since we drafted him, his retention, his ability from day one to get us lined up and adjusted. He has a great feel for that. He just naturally has control."

Against the Dallas Cowboys, McClain recorded two tackles.

Not much to write home about for the Butkus Award winner from Alabama, but Cable was pleased.

"He did fine," Cable said. "He ran the defense like you want him to. He ran to the ball, was in on a number of plays, so you could say it was a success his first time out."

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