Sometimes it’s difficult to ascertain what is fact and what is fiction in the land of the Oakland Raiders.

Fact: Tom Cable is a prime candidate, and quite possibly the prime candidate to become the Raiders’ head coach. Cable and Raiders owner Al Davis have talked regularly, and Cable must feel pretty good about his chances. His actions say as much. Cable is at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., interviewing assistant coaches for his staff in the event that he does land the job.

It could be that Cable is just being prepared and thorough — or it could be that he and the Raiders are getting closer to a deal.

What is fiction in regards to the job are reports over the weekend that Raiders linebackers coach Don Martindale was a candidate to become the head coach. Martindale accepted an offer to become the Broncos’ linebackers coach this week. Clearly, Martindale is a good and respected coach. He had offers from four teams — the Jets, Broncos, Ravens and Browns — but ultimately believed Denver was the best one.

Yet despite all the interest, Martindale was not going to be the Raiders’ head coach. And so, until the Raiders have an announcement, the speculation will continue.

But Cable being a prime candidate is fact. Martindale being a prime candidate was fiction.

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