Moore shares Palmer's concern over lack of reps

ALAMEDA -- Just because Carson Palmer and Denarius Moore clicked instantly last season does not mean the connection is still there, not when the quarterback and receiver have had so few reps this preseason.

Moore's balky right hamstring has kept him out of practice since Aug. 4 and Palmer has already admitted his concern level is high. Same goes for Moore."Im very concerned," Moore said Tuesday. "As far as getting timing down with the quarterback, thats very important. And actually being out there and repping each play, getting each concept down. Its just mental errors, too, that you have to be aware of."It's no surprise that Moore is not expected to play in the Raiders' exhibition finale Thursday in Seattle, but coach Dennis Allen expects him to be ready for the regular season opener against San Diego on Sept. 10.But what kind of chemistry can be rekindled before then?Yes, even offensive coordinator Greg Knaap is worried."Its been a huge setback because Denarius, I was very excited to start working with last year in the OTAs, watching all the games last year on tape, to miss the timing of that guy with our quarterback, its been tough," Knapp said. "Its been tough, Ill be honest with you. But, it has given the opportunity for these young guys to grow and, in the long haul, when Denarius comes back healthy actually might have been a blessing for us."Last year, 19 of Moore's 33 receptions and three of his five touchdown catches came with Palmer throwing him the ball. So they have that going for them, which is nice, right?"Yes, it is some confidence right there, but then again, that was last year," Moore said. "This is a new year and youve got to prove yourself again. Thats what my mindset is right now, just hurry up and get back out there so I can showcase it again."