In painstaking detail, Oakland Raiders coach Tom Cable explained why quarterback JaMarcus Russell was benched during a blowout loss to the New York Jets.

Cable said that he is certain Russell understands why he replaced him with journeyman Bruce Gradkowski after three turnovers in the first half.

"I think in talking today with him, he's pretty clear on what went on," Cable told reporters. "If I know JaMarcus, he'll learn from this and he'll grow and play like he's supposed to and capable of Sunday."

Cable reiterated that Russell will start against the San Diego Chargers on Sunday.

On the first play of the game, Russell didn't get the offense lined up in the correct formation and ignored a checkdown option before being sacked and losing a fumble.

"You wouldn't expect to have that kind of mental error on the first play of the game," Cable said.

In discussing Russell's first interception, Cable said: "There wasn't anybody there to throw the ball to.

Russell yellled at a teammate following his second interception.

"It's not up for the coach and the quarterback to debate this in the media, but when you see it on film, it's pretty obvious that would have been a tough play for Superman," Cable said.

As for how Russell reacted to the tough love, Cable said he took it well.

"Just what I would expect it to be," Cable said. "No arguing or anything like that. He's a big boy. His job is to win games and execute this offense."

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