Category: Game Day

Raiders VS Steelers: Bills Recap and Keys to Beating Pittsburgh

The Raiders failed to stop the run or pass versus the Bills. Josh Allen barely missed a pass. James Cook surpassed 120 rushing yards on only 17 carries.

Vegas failed to do much on offense too. Jimmy Garoppolo threw two interceptions. One was kind of when the game was out of reach. The first one was on a busted screen. Josh Jacobs finished the game with negative rushing yards on nine attempts. Jacobs was also the team’s second leading receiver with five catches for 51 rushing yards. This offense doesn’t move the same playing from behind.

The Blls overall had their way with the Raiders defense. Backup Buffalo runners Latavius Murray and Damien Harris combined for an additional 55 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The bright spot last week was the two sacks made by Raiders linebackers. Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo both got one sack last week. Those two players along with Maxx Crobsy, Marcus Epps and Nate Hobbs are among the Raiders best graded players, per PFF.

Vegas’ defensive line, outside of Crosby, is ranked terribly bad by PFF through two games. Overall, the Raiders defensive line got pushed around. Buffalo really controlled the game outside of the Raiders scoring first.

The offensive line earns solid PFF grades mostly due to their reliable pass blocking. Garoppolo has yet to be sacked this season. Some of that credit goes to Jimmy getting the ball out quick. Dylan Parham is the lowest graded starting offensive lineman currently. Collectively, the group could do more on thier double teams.

Now, the Silver and Black come home to face an old-time rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh stole one on Monday Night Football last week after Browns star runner Nick Chubb went down. Cleveland starting quarterback Deshaun Watson failed to carry his team to victory late in the game.

The Browns should have won that game but the biggest difference maker was the Pittsburgh pass rush. They sacked Watson six times, including one sack from sta T.J. Watt. Markus Golden, Larry Ogunjobi, Demarvi Leal, Elijah Riley and Alex Highsmith all got sacks. Every Raiders offensive linemen is going to have their pass blocking put to the test. Vegas needs to keep their heads up to identify blitzes and stunts.

Pittsburgh has also failed to get Najee Harris going this season. He finished last week’s game with 43 rushing yards on 10 attempts. Some of that gets attributed to the team battling back from a deceit. Harris has 74 rushing yards on 16 attempts for the year. He did not do much on the ground last year but made an impact as a receiver out of the backfield.

Regardless, the Raiders can’t afford to let Harris get going early. Running back Jaylen Warren has also been a passing threat out of the backfield. Warren has 9 receptions for 78 yards. The Raiders linebackers must be on their toes.

The Raiders secondary will also get pushed. Pittsburgh receiver George Pickens scored a 71 yard receiving touchdown last week. Otherwise, he has 8 catches for 92 yards on the year. Across from him Allen Robinson had a solid week versus the 49ers the week before. Robinson has 7 receptions for 76 receiving yards and has found his role.

Pittsburgh allowed seven sacks already this season. Maxx Crosby and company need to pressure Kenny Pickett and keep him from getting comfortable. Pickett has also already thrown three interceptions this year too.

Vegas is still waiting for their first interception of the year. The secondary has been better than years past, but they need to help the offense out by getting a pick this week. Pickett likes to get the ball out quick so the Raiders pass rush needs to get to work early and often.

Any turnover would be huge for this Raiders defense. The Raiders linebacker Robert Spillane will take on the team he spent four seasons with before joining the Raiders. Corner Marcus Peters is on this team to create takeaways. Peters needs to get an interception asap. Safety Marcus Epps looked great last week but it would also be great to see him make a play on the ball.

Either way, the Raiders need to set the tone on offense. They need to get Josh Jacobs and the running game going. Pittsburgh has allowed the second most rushing yards this season. Getting Jacobs going will take the pressure of Garoppolo. He’s much better protecting a lead, instead of having to push the ball downfield.

Davante Adams has found ways to be effective despite the offense not really running through him. He has 12 receptions for 150 receiving yards and a touchdown. The Steelers are in the middle of the pack as far as pass defense.

There is not another player on the Steelers that can matchup with Adams. Plus, Jakobi Meyers should be back in the lineup. He and Jimmy G. had a natural chemistry. Hunter Renfrow made a play last week. Austin Hooper also made a couple of solid catches last week. That should open up things for Adams over the top.

Again, the Raiders secondary will get tested. However, they should get some more help from the pass rush. The Raiders defensive line must earn the right to rush the passer by stopping the run. Their interior defensive linemen need to play with more hands and better anchors. They can not get pushed around again this week.

A turnover would be great to help this unit gain some confidence. It will give the Raiders defense some added room for error too. Vegas is -4 in the turnover ratio already.

The Raiders will return to their home field for the first time this season. Still, it could be a hostile environment filled with Steelers fans. We never like losing to the Terrible Towel.

Vegas has the Los Angeles Chargers and Green Bay Packers coming up. Both could be really tough games that they might not be able to lose. Nobody wants to be 1-4.

Bottom line, the Raiders need a win. It’s far from a must win. However, a victory would do a lot to build some momentum and confidence for Vegas after such a bad loss. A win here should help the Raiders establish their identity, especially if they can establish the run and create some turnovers.

Raiders vs Bills 2023

It wasn’t pretty but the Raiders secured a season opening win and their seventh consecutive victory over the Broncos. Vegas also positioned themselves as the No. 1 team in the AFC West. The Chiefs and Chargers both took losses in Week One.

The Raiders offensive line didn’t look great. Denver held Josh Jacobs to less than 50 yards rushing for the day. Jacobs did break more tackles than any other running back last week so the performance can’t get blamed on his rust.

Nobody gave up a sack but some of that credit goes to Jimmy Garoppolo for getting the ball out. Denver did feature a top run defense last year. Except Vegas found ways to run the ball last year.

On defense, the line did secure two sacks of Russell Wilson. Raiders edge Tyree Wilson had some flashes including the first play of the game. Jerry Tillery registered a sack and flashed his hands, stunt and closing speed. Yet, Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson also held onto the ball too long. Either way, it was nice to see some disruption beyond Maxx Crosby’s usual presence.

Vegas did get carved up in the run game. There were times the Raiders needed more anchor in the middle. Other times their ends got too far upfield. Some of that blame goes on the backers. They also got beat in coverage. Denver honestly should’ve stuck with the run more.

Nonetheless, the game came down to the Broncos missing a kick. They also did the Raiders a favor failing to convert an onside kick early. Special teams really helped Vegas edge that victory out.

Moving onto Week Two, the Raiders face a tougher challenge. They go on the road again, this time to the East Coast. Vegas faces a Buffalo Bills team that contended last year. However, they overwhelmed in the opener versus the Jets. Expect them to come out with an extra sense of urgency. Despite how bad they looked early, Buffalo only lost by a punt return in overtime. Plus, the Silver and Black don’t always travel to the east well.

The Raiders run game seems to be their biggest advantage this week. Buffalo’s most effective rusher was Josh Allen last week, The Silver and Black need to establish the run to again control the game. That will also keep Allen off the field.

They will also be without Jakobi Meyers who finished as the top receiver last week. Vegas needs to get Davante Adams more involved early. The run game should also take some burden off Adams. Weather shouldn’t impact the game as it will be warm with little wind.

Stefon Diggs loves the intermediate work. The Raiders safeties and corners must tackle well. Dawson Knox could also give the Raiders linebackers some work. Josh Allen did throw three interceptions a week ago. Vegas needs to force an interception this week. They did not do that versus the Broncos. Marcus Peters is on this roster to force turnovers.

Special teams could again be critical. The Raiders advantage in the kicking game should help.

Ultimately, the Raiders game plan should remain the same. Use the run game to keep the other offense off the field. Take advantage of good field position. The extra part this week is getting even more pressure and forcing a turnover on defense. It would not hurt if the offense can convert a big play too. That should pretty much be the Raiders blueprint most of the year.

Raiders Week One Quick Broncos Preview and 2023 Camp Column

Week one is here. Josh Jacobs is back. Jimmy G. And Davante Adams are healthy. The offensive line is intact and looks much more in sync than a year ago. Michael Mayer is off the mend. Hunter Renfrow is healthy too.

Josh Jacobs ended his holdout and signed his contract, even though it took them weeks for him to sign basically the same contract that was offered before camp. Nonetheless, the Raiders lead offensive weapon is back in Silver and Black for this season at least.

The defense got Tyree Wilson some snaps. Marcus Peters was finally signed. Maxx Crosby looks as good as ever. The defensive line also added a couple of rookie defensive tackles as well signed a new starting linebacker and safety.

Vegas has even more hope for this season than last. It’s year two of the coaching staff. No new system or regime excuses.

Of course, everything seemed a little too quiet for RaiderNation. Chandler Jones was locked out of the facility and couldn’t reach any of the figureheads. He took to social media where he unfollowed the team and key players. Jones also went on a social media rant. He won’t play in Week One, according to reports.

It’s unclear why this all happened. Some say he is getting cut or traded. That’s weird given his replacement Tyree Wilson has been hurt all offseason. It’s even more weird considering Jones restructured his deal and added some years to the end of it. Wilson had limited reps in camp and preseason. He looks like he still needs to knock some rust off before it is fair to expect anything from him.

Vegas was hoping for a bounce back year with Jones. He also could be a great mentor for Wilson. So far it looks like the social media was a big misunderstanding, but who really knows? There’s speculation Jones could’ve been going through it mentally.

Nonetheless, the Raiders do not have time to get off to a slow start. They have two division games in the first four games. Their other two matchups come against a contending Buffalo team and rising Steelers team.

They’ll also have the NFC North and the Patriots in the stretch after that. No one is really sure what to expect from those teams but the Raiders aren’t that much more of a sure thing either. Vegas oddsmakers have the Raiders around the 5-7 win-total mark.

If the Raiders hope to upset that, it begins once again with running the rock. Last year, they did a great job riding Josh Jacobs as the lead back early and often.

Now, the offensive line should improve with some increased continuity. Only Alex Bars was let go from last year’s starters. You won’t see any tears here because he was by far the weakest link. Expect the offensive line to have improved push, particularly on the double teams.

Of course, Jacobs may or may not be in full form due to missing camp. Vegas also relied on Zamir White and company more. We should see them sprinkle in more backs by committee. That should also preserve Jacobs and keep defenses on their toes.

Further, the biggest move the Raiders made was replacing Derek Carr at QB. Jimmy G. Is surrounded by even more weapons as the Raiders added Jakobi Meyers, Austin Hooper and Meyers. They also kept Hunter Renfrow, despite trading away Darren Waller.

The idea is that Jimmy G.’s playoff experience and decision making gets Vegas farther than Carr every did. However, I think that will really come down to the strength of the defense. Garoppolo has always had a stout defense aiding his gameplay.

The good news is, Vegas added Marcus Peters to the secondary. He’s a high level playmaker and plays the game with a high IQ. Peters is among the interception leaders since he entered the league. Vegas has not had a player that can create turnovers like that in awhile.

Moreover, the Secondary as a whole is looking a lot stronger. Nate Hobbs is healthy and the team signed Michael Epps fresh off a Super Bowl appearance with the Eagles. Trevon Moehrig is looking better after taking a step back last year. Rookie Jakorian Bennett and Chris Smith add some needed youth to the group. They also retained Brandon Facyson and David Lang for some veteran DB help. Amik Robertson could also help out at safety and corner.

Vegas’ biggest weakness is clearly the defense. There is a lot of talk about Devine DeAblo’s ascension into the starting linebacker role. He has battled injuries in the past. It remains to be seen what he can do. Robert Spillane is the other linebacker. He can be hit or miss. I’d still love to see them add more there. I’m not the biggest Luke Masterson or Amari Burney fan, even if they are both young. Masterson doesn’t have the coverage skills to stay on the field and Burney is super raw.

The defensive line will once again be anchored by Maxx Crosby. Bilal Nichols and Jerry Tillery were brought back after flashes last year. They both give the front some scheme flexibility. I think this group should be great getting off the ball. I just hope they can help out Crosby versus the pass and their linebackers in the run. Jones and Wilson should be an upgrade over Jones and Ferrell last year. Wilson has a lot more upside than Ferrell due to raw talent and tools. However, Wilson is probably even less developed than Ferrell.

If the defense can get after the passer and the secondary can convert some turnovers the Raiders should have a chance on every game. If they can’t stop the run though, they won’t be able to pound the ball and control the clock as easily as they would like. You have to earn the right to rush the passer by handling business versus the run on the first two downs.

Furthermore, Jimmy G. Has to be great on third down. Hopefully he’s healthy and not afraid to step up and scramble for a first down, unlike ghosts of Raiders past. It’s both a blessing and a curse that Jimmy G. Is not the deep ball thrower that Carr is. Yes, that means less highlight deep passes down field. It also means less cringe-worth sacks or dump off passes for no game. Garoppolo has to get the ball out quick so his playmakers can create big plays if they are not going to push the down the field.

All this is much easier when the Raiders have got starts and leads to sit on. It’s easy to sink and dunk when you come out with rhythms and execute. It’s easy to keep running the ball when you’re ahead on the scoreboard. It’s easier to sack the quarterback or jump routes for picks when opposing teams are playing catch-up. Therefore, this defense is really going to rely on the offense to put them in winning positions. Moreover, I think the offense will be better at capitalizing on field position and converting drives into points. The Raiders long struggled in the red zone under Carr. Converting in the red zone is Jimmy G.’s quickest path to showing he is an upgrade over Carr.

Vegas has a chance if the Raiders offensive line can continue the momentum it built last year and someone other than Crosby steps up in the pass rush. Strong trench play will be critical to the Raiders success, particularly early in the season.

Denver offers a strong matchup. The Broncos are a three-point favorite over the Raiders today. Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton will give the Raiders’ rebuilt secondary a real test. The pass rush will be critical to helping the Raiders get the Broncos’ quick passing attack contained. The Denver offensive line improved by adding Mike McGlinchey at right tackle. They also added Ben Powers at guard. Lloyd Cushenberry and Garrett Bolles are both still there. There’s a lot of draft and free agency resources invested in the Denver offensive line.

On defense, Denver added defensive lineman Zach Allen. Overall, the Raiders have a good chance to establish themselves versus a rebuilt veteran defensive line in Denver. Dominating the Broncos defensive line would really help the Raiders start strong.

Either way, nobody wants to 0-1. There’s a lot of reasons to not have hope this season but there’s also just as many reasons the Raiders could have a great season. Vegas just needs to execute. Of course, we’ve been saying that the last 20 years. The losing has to stop. It is time the Raiders get back to excellence.

Shout out to Tom Brady who looks like he was always meant to wear Silver and Black. Brady always beat Manning, who has ties to the Broncos organization. Let’s hope the Raiders keep their streak versus the Broncos going.

Raiders versus Steelers and getting the Pats off our back

The Raiders play an old time rival in the Steelers this week. Unfortunately, Steelers legend Franco Harris died this week. That should give Pittsburgh some extra will in a must win.

It is also going to be cold. We know Derek Carr doesn’t always play well in the cold.

Expect a heavy dose of Davante Adams. He is also a mismatch and good luck tackling him in the cold. Same for Darren Waller. Expect him to have a similar impact as last game. Carr will rely on his safety blankets in Pittsburgh.

On defense, the Raiders must harrass Kenny Pickett. Maxx Crosby didn’t register a sack and neither did Chandler Jones. Hopefully, that changes this week. They also have to wrap up on Najee Harris. Don’t let him break anything off. Denzel Perryman needs another big game.

Versus the Patriots, the Raiders squeezed out a win thanks to a turnover. Some of it was luck and some of it was stupidity by the other team. Either way, we will take it over a team we have not beat in damn near twenty years.

Vegas still needs some help to make the playoffs. It won’t matter if they lose this game. Pittsburgh is favored by 2.5 points, which is not a lot at home. It’s honestly a toss up because you never know what Raiders team you will get.

The Steelers are young but they have speed on the outside. That could make it a long day for the Raiders secondary.

Vegas also can not make it easy with penalties and turnovers again. If the Raiders can execute and minimize miscues they should come out victorious.

The good news is the Raiders will get their guards back as well as Andrew Billings. Billings is going to be needed versus the run. He should also perform better with a smaller role, since the supporting cast is playing better. The Raiders also need their guards back versus a physical Steeler o-line.

Honestly, expect this to be an old school game. Both offenses may make big plays but the team that controls the clock and creates turnovers will win and keep their season going one more week.

Raiders versus Pats: Recovering from last week and beating New England

What kind of team cuts all their guards? The Raiders do. This is the same team that loses to a hobbled Super Bowl Champion led by a QB fresh off another team. Don’t forget it was a defacto home game packed with Raiders fans, yet Vegas still lost.

Many Rams fans left before their team’s game-winning drive. Most sat quiet as they got heckled by Raiders fans. Until, chants of “Bakkkeeerrr…” hit the concourse on the route out.

Underwhelming Expectations

Anyways, the Raiders playoff prospects are basically dead. They sit in a three-way tie for 10th place. A win over the Patriots could keep them treading water but a loss helps their draft pick. Depends how you look at it but Josh McDaniels should want to beat his old team. It’s also a home game and the fans deserve better than the collapse we got at SoFi.

Not scoring 20 points again will not cut it. McDaniels is supposed to be an offensive mind and he has every tool he could want. He might even get Hunter Renfrow and Darren Waller back which gives the offense even less excuses.

The Guard Situation

Back to the offensive line. Seeing John Simpson get cut was surprising. Simpson started the last two seasons and started this season at left guard. He didn’t play bad in his limited action but quickly fell out of the offensive line rotation. He came back into the fold at right guard after Alex Bars got hurt. Bars isn’t great but he was getting better as the season went on.

Simpson did not look good against the Rams. He got caught leaning, turning his shoulder, playing high and not punching well. Simpson did do some solid things in the run game as far as pulling and getting to the next level. He did not get enough push though.

Rams DL Greg Gaines is an underrated defensive lineman though. He gave he entire group problems. Simpson also plays better on the left side.

Vegas also cut guard Lester Cotton. Cotton took many first team reps in the offseason. He entered the season starting at right guard. Cotton was hurt and he hasn’t played in weeks so it was also a bit surprising. Bars went on IR so he will probably miss the rest of the season.

The Raiders also added guard Netane Muti. Muti did not play much in Denver and he was mid in previous seasons per PFF. We’ll see how much time the Raiders give him but he is big and strong. He should add some push to the unit at the very least.

Questions facing both lines the rest of the season

Jermaine Eluemunor probably moves inside to guard and the Raiders start Thayer Munford at tackle. Eluemunor has been limited in practice due to injuries but he should actually play better at guard. He won’t be as limited by his speed and feet. He will have to play with more leverage.

Munford looked solid when he made his last start. He will need to keep showing consistency with extended playing time.

On the defensive line, there s a chance Andrew Billings returns. That should help the Raiders run defense. Chandler Jones finally broke the sack seal and hopefully he keeps that going versus the team he won a Championship with earlier in his career. Clelin Ferrell is looking solid as the defacto sixth man. Bilal Nichols is finally getting home. Jerry Tillery is getting upfield. All of them could be a little more consistent, especially as they play for roles in Vegas or elsewhere next year.

Overall, the Raiders have some questions to answer along both lines. Is Nichols worth his price tag next year? Can Tillery and Ferrell stay on the field? Can Jones keep getting to the quarterback in his 30s? Will Billings keep progressing to earn himself a payday?

What will the offensive line look like after this season? Can Andre James keep progressing? Can Kolton Miller make the jump to elite? Will Dylan Parham improve his technique? Are either of the players on the right side in plans beyond this season?

Rebounding versus the Pats

Nobody wants to lose to the Pats. We know the history between these teams. New England has been smoking the Raiders every time they play since the tuck rule. Vegas hired an apprentice at the head coach and head personnel roles to scale that winning culture to the Raiders. Results have been mixed to say the least.

Either way, Josh McDaniels wants to win this game whether he admits it or not. The Patriots defense is tough and highly ranked. Their pass rush, led by Matthew Judon, could give the banged up Raiders problem. This game should obviously start and stop with Josh Jacobs. They also need to find ways to keep Davante Adams in the gameplan. That means more quick passes to let Tae create after the catch.

The Raiders defense has been improving. A lot of that is improved play from the role players along the defensive line. Maxx Crosby also continues to look like one of the best players in the game.

Vegas needs to stop the run and play discipline in coverage. The Raiders are good in spurts but they can struggle getting off the field. They can get beat deep or give up a bad penalty that keeps an offense on the field. Their own offense can also be streaky. They don’t always capitalize on big plays or good field position. The Raiders offense is not great in the zone so that puts the defense in tough spots.

If the Raiders can get pressure and protect their own quarterback it should be a close game. If they can do that and control the game with their run game they should walk away with a victory. A turnover or two created by the defense should also help. Some big plays from the offense will help too.

Hopefully, Vegas asserts their will and identity. Otherwise, it could get ugly if the Raiders offensive line is shake and struggles to create lanes. It could also get bad if they don’t stop the run and let the Pats offense pick them apart.

A win here proves the Raiders are willing to fight for their season and their head coach. I get tired of asking the team to play for pride every year but often times that is all we have to play for. This team isn’t quite at that point yet but they are not far. Many of these guys are playing for contracts here or to prove they can stay in this league.

Obviously a win over his old boss should give McDaniels some confidence. It would also be nice if the Raiders could finally Just Win Baby over the Patriots again.

Raiders Vs. Rams: How Vegas can get first real regular season win in SoFi

Finally, the Raiders looked like the team we hoped they would be versus the Chargers. The wins over the Broncos and Seahawks were ugly. This one did not start great but it did not come down to the last play.

Vegas disrupted Justin Herbert often. They stuck with the run early and late. Even when results were mixed, the Raiders stuck with their gameplan. Derek Carr wasn’t perfect but he converted strategic shots that helped the team catchup and pull away. The Raiders are on a three game winning streak and they deserve credit for that.

Even in the scheme of bad Chargers offensive lines, I’ve never seen the Los Angeles offensive line play so bad. It’s hard to tell if the Raiders success stems from their own growth or the Chargers lack of talent. Either way, they are starting to build momentum after playing two of their best games this season over the last two weeks. I’ll start believing they turned over a new leaf if they can dominate another winnable matchup in the Rams, with only a few days rest. Hopefully, Chandler Jones’ 3 sacks versus the Chargers was not a fluke. Let’s see if Jerry Tillery and Clelin Ferrell can build on last week too. They did face a really inexperienced offensive line on a Chargers offense that was down key receivers.

Either way, shout out to Tillery for making some plays versus his old team. I was worried with Andrew Billings out. However, Tillery added some get off, length and gap penetration. Of course, the interior run defense wasn’t the same without Billings. Yet, the pocket collapsed from the inside more last week. Let’s see the interior line keep it up on Thursday Night.

As for the offensive line, it was not their best game of the year. They got mixed up on some stunts. It would also be great if they could get more push on their double teams.

Jermaine Eluemunor looked good. He did a better job keeping his feet alive, staying balanced and using leverage. Khalil Mack did not break the box score. They did their best to neutralize the elite rusher. Otherwise, Carr and Jacobs really did the line a lot of favors. There honestly should’ve been more sacks and negative plays.

Regardless, the important thing is the Raiders did not get swept by the Chargers. They made up grown versus their AFC West foe and moved two spots up in the AFC playoff race. Vegas is in the tenth spot, two games behind the Jets for the final playoff spot.

The Raiders will not have much time to celebrate their wins. They play L.A.’s other team in SoFi on Thursday. Expect a full Raiders Nation takeover with the Rams down their starting quarterbacks. The Rams signed Baker Mayfield who has had success versus the Raiders before. He is also fresh.

Still, this is the Raiders game to lose. Davante Adams will face off versus Jalen Ramsey but the Vegas passing game should still find an advantage with Aaron Donald out. Bobby Wagner had an amazing game last week versus his old team. He could be huge in this game, especially if Josh Jacobs is not a hundred percent. Still, the Raiders gotta get some surge versus the Rams front before they worry about Wagner or the backers. Greg Gaines can give the interior line some problems and Leonard Floyd still offers enough length and speed to gibe the Raiders tackles issues.

Los Angeles did show some life with Cam Akers back. The Raiders will need to stay discipline as the Rams should run the ball. Vegas should also expect some trickery from the Home team that is struggling to move the ball. TuTu Atwell had his best game at receiver last week. Van Jefferson can also make plays at receiver. It’s not a lot but enough for the Rams to give the Raiders inconsistent secondary problems. Double true if Rock Ya-Sin remains out.

Overall, this is a winnable game for the Raiders. That’s also what makes it scary. How many times have we seen the Raiders lose to teams they should beat?

If Josh McDaniels wants to prove he is building Rome, he needs to show he can win winnable games. Beating division foes and winning in OT is great but winners beat the teams their supposed team. Vegas can not make it easy for the Rams to hang around with penalties and turnovers.

The Raiders should come out aggressive again on defense. They need to attack whoever plays QB. Our defense will also get tested versus Cam Akers.

Vegas needs to take what they want on offense. Push the ball down the field when necessary but stick to feeding Jacobs as much as possible. If the Raiders can execute, they should leave their second home with a win. That will give them a fourth-straight win headed into a matchup with the Patriots. Not only is that McDaniels’ former team, but the Pats are on spot above the Raiders in the standings. One game at a time but the Raiders playoff hopes get an inch bigger with a win over the Rams this week.

Keys to getting a third-straight win

Neither the Raiders or Chargers seasons are going as planned. Both were suppossed to be Super Bowl contenders.

Los Angeles is still in the mix. However, they lost two of three. The 49ers and Chiefs reminded the Bolts that they are not quite elite. Vegas has won thr last two games. They are on the outside of the playoff hint but a win over the Chargers helps confidence and positioning.

The formula to beating the Chargers revolves around again getting the ball to Davante Adams and Josh Jacobs. Jacobs ended the game last week and Adams waived the Broncos good night.

Vegas is much better with short third downs. L.A. also struggles stopping the run. They have allowed the fifth most rushing yards. The Chargers have allowed Their secondary is beatable. Collectively, they have allowed the 13th least passing yards.

The pressure will be on the offensive line. They did not play well in Week One. Andre James left the game and our old friend Khalil Mack came up big. This is not that offensive line. The group has gotten better since that time but they still lack the traits to compete with the Chargers for four quarters.

On defense, the Raiders know Justin Herbert is one of the best competitors and talents in the backfield. Keenan Allen and Mike Williams can obviously give the Raiders secondary problems with their size and speed. Williams is out but the Chargers have found speed and mismatches elsewhere. Don’t sleep on Gerald Everrett and his breakout season. The tight end could be a huge x-factor moving the chains.

Again, the pressure will be on the Raiders defensive line. They are off one of their best games of the season. Andre Billings will miss this game which puts a big damper in the Raiders run defense. The Chargers line is down two starters and trots out two rookies. Rookie guard Zion Johnson has been solid. Jerry Tillery is a former Chargers first round pick and eyes will be on him trying to fill Billings’ snaps. This is a winnable matchup for the Raiders defensive line. They need to build some momentum after last week’s win over the Seahawks.

The win over Seattle was far from perfect but at least the Raiders established the run and got to the quarterback. Shoutout to Josh Jacobs for having one of the best games in Raiders history. Pay that man or some one else will. Hopefully, the calf gives him no problems versus the Bolts. Again, the Raiders need their run game to control this matchup.

If the Raiders can again find ways to convert in the red zone and stay on the field, they can keep Justin Herbert off the field. Moreover, they need to apply pressure to prevent Herbert from just throwing dimes all day. If they can do that as well as protect Derek Carr they have a great chance to win their third straight game.

The playoffs are still an uphill battle but a win over the Chargers helps them gain some ground. A third consecutive win should also give this team some confidence. The last thing they want is to get swept by Los Angeles’ least favorite football team. Time once again to Just Win Baby!

Gratitude and keys to beating the Seahawks

Raiders fans don’t have a lot to be thankful for this year, given their overall record and playoff prospects.

Nonetheless, they should be thankful for the Broncos. Not only did the Raiders sweep the Broncos for the third year, but Denver is the only team more underwhelming than the Raiders.

Denver leveraged picks for a quarterback formerly known as Russell Wilson. These days Wilson looks far from the franchise guy he was in Seattle. The Broncos also traded a budding defensive star to the Dolphins before the trade deadlin. Thank God for those Donkeys.

Raider Nation should also be grateful for Maxx Crosby. The Raiders defensive player looks like one of the best players at his position this year. Previously, he ran cold in big moments or team run games would wear him down. Now, he’s converting those pressures and hurries into sacks. Crosby is playing more discipline versus the run and finding ways to impact games in big moments. Look at that blocked field goal and all the deflected passes.

Josh Jacobs and DaVante Adams are the other reasons for gratitude this offseason. Jacobs has also taken another step. He is running harder than we have ever seen. Jacobs is being more strategic with the hits he takes too. Unfortunately, the Raiders lead runner is in a contract year and his days in Vegas may be numbered. Even more reason to appreciate him the rest of this season.

Meanwhile, Adams is by far the best receiver the Silver and Black have seen. Like Crosby, Adams is also under contract for more than this season. We have to be thankful to have these two alpha players on our roster.

Onward to the Seahawks

This an old school AFC West rivalry. The Seahawks were suppossed to take steps back this year but legendary coach Pete Carroll has this team playing well. Shoutout to former Raiders Shelby Harris, Bruce Irvin, Quinton Jefferson, Tanner Muse and Gabe Jackson on the Seahawks roster.

Seattle is young and led by Geno Smith but don’t let that fool you. They bring size and speed outside. The Seahawks are ranked right behind the Raiders in passing yards this year. Seattle is 16th in rushing yards. Kenneth Walker is shifty enough to give the Raiders some problems out of the backfield.

Vegas must play discipline. Don’t give up any big penalties. Do their best to limit big plays down the field from Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf. All of that is easier to do if the Raiders offense controls the clock and stays on the field. The Vegas defense wears down after so many three-and-outs or series beginning with bad field position. Hopefully, Nate Hobbs is back to lend some help in the secondary too.

The Raiders still rank in the bottom for sacks and interceptions. Seattle has young offensive tackles and an athletic interior offensive line. Vegas needs to keep their d-line rotation tight. Chandler Jones needs to get a sack and impact this game.

Clelin Ferrell is on the d-line during some of the Raiders best plays. Even if he doesn’t get home, he helps setup his teammates. Also hoping Jerry Tillery can start taking some snaps from Bilal Nichols. Nichols is a decent pass rusher but not great against the run. Overall, the Raiders defensive line needs to use their size and length to stalemate their blockers and free up the Raiders LB for tackles.

Defensively, Seattle is 14th in sacks with 27 for the year. They’re 20th in picks with only 7 for the year. Seattle’s defense also allows the 13th most passing yards but the 25th most rushing yards.

Vegas must exploit the Seahawks run defense early and often. Derek Carr is a much better quarterback when he doesn’t have to force things on third and long. None of the Seahawks corners should matchup with Davante Adams. That means the Raiders must take what they want on offense.

Vegas gets Kolton Miller back after he missed last week. Miller’s presence was missed on pass downs especially. They will need him versus the speed the Seahawks bring off the edge.

If the Raiders offense can put together drives that will take some pressure of the Vegas defense. A few weeks ago, Tampa Bay limited the Seahawks run game and ended their four game win streak. The pressure will be on the Raiders defense to stop the run, limit big plays and get after the quarterback.

Unfortunately, we have yet to see the Raiders offense and defense get in sync. Every game it seems like one makes plays when the other does not, then vice versa. They can’t afford that against a young and well coached team playing for a playoff spot in a loaded NFC. Seattle finds ways to hang in games. The Seahawks make just enough wins to pull out close games and shootouts.

This is a winnable game for the Raiders but they have to execute over four quarters. Something they have yet to do versus anyone besides the Broncos.

Putting together a road win over the Seahawks should give this team an ounce of hope. They have yet to show the can put together consecutive wins. Doing that versus a playoff contender should give the team something to build on towards more victories. That should also help Josh McDaniels build some mojo. Just Win Baby!

Raiders Midseason Update and How to Beat the Donkeys

The Raiders once again found a way to lose with a lead in the fourth quarter. Indianapolis played witg more urgency despite having a new coach and a slew of injuries.

Raider Nation again finds itself crossing their fingers for a Christmas Miracle of winning out. Vegas fell even further from having a postseason or even a winning season.

Even worse, Raiders fans got to hear the entire national media share takes on Derek Carr’s tears and rallying cry. We get Derek Carr loves the Raiders and wants to win. However, we’re tired of seeing him answer the same questions with the same response. It does not take an NFL Insider to tell you this team looks lost and divided.

Vegas also got reminded that it can’t afford to hit restart on Josh McDaniels because their ownership is cash broke. They’re still paying the last guys. No wonder the Magic Johnson rumors were heard this season.

This might not be the worst Raiders team we have seen but it is the most discouraging. How does this team have a top-10 left tackle, pass rusher, running back, receiver and tight end but still can’t get out the mud?

You can read about how the Raiders o-line and d-line have faired this season via my FPC columns this week. Ultimately, they kind of just lost their battles to an Indianapolis team that focused on keeping things sinple. The. Colts just executed better, especially in key spots

Vegas moves on to play the Denver Broncos. The Raiders already beat the Donkeys this season. Denver is having an equally bad season but somehow stands over the Raiders in the standings.

Again, Vegas needs to execute. Show they are the better team again. Believe in each other and the coaching staff. Will their way to a win over a division foe with the same sort of baggage this season.

The Raiders need to run the ball early and often. They have to find ways to get Davante Adams the ball. Both will be more difficult with Kolton Miller inactive. At least, they won’t have to worry about Bradley Chubb who was traded earlier this season.

Vegas needs to find a way to create some turnovers versus the Broncos. They also need to rush the passer. Vegas might have a tough time with Denver’s size and speed outside. An improved pass rush will help. They also need to stop the run. Denzel Perryman back should help that. Clelin Ferrell should get another look after being a healthy scratch last week.

Vegas also signed Jerry Tillery after the Chargers waived him. Tillery brings some size and versatility upfront. Hopefully, he can latch onto the other starting tackle spot besides Billings. The Raiders could use his strength and length to pushthe pocket.

Either way, the Raiders keys for beating the Broncos remain the same as every game this season. They need to prove they can execute on all sides of the ball for four quarters. Something they have not done all season.

The buddy ball also gots to stop. Vegas needs to play the best players. No more veteran scholarships.

Give Raiders fans a performance they can watch and cheer for with pride. Play Raiders football by getting home to the QB and taking what they want on offense. Period.

Raiders must beat the Colts

Vegas needs to beat the Colts. Indianapolis is in their own slump. They just fired their coach and hired former player Jeff Saturday. The former o-linemen was in a special role with the team but not as a coach.

The Raiders lost a close game to Jackcsonville but honestly it should not have been that close. Jacksonville kept giving the Raiders opportunities on offense late. The Jaguars also helped the Raiders out with miscues the team capitalized on early.

Vegas struggled with the Jaguars length and speed upfront. You saw that on the couple of sacks.

They found Davante Adams early and offen but got away from it. We know how Adams feels about it. The Raiders also got away from Josh Jacobs. Again, I’ll put that more on the o-line and play-calling. Jacobs ran hard and made much of nothing.

Defensively, Vegas faced a winnable matchup. Jacksonville has some veteran experience and athleticism but they were not elite. They still found ways to dominate the Raiders with double teams. The Jags also found ways to use the quickness and explosiveness of the Raiders with some fakes. Vegas did not get home to the quarterback and that includes Maxx Crosby.

2-7 with a loss to the 3-6 Colts means the season is even more over. Vegas needs to come ouy and execute. Even in their two wins, they never got all threee assets if the game rolling.

The Raiders face a tougher matchup on offense. This defense features Yannick Ngakoue and DeForest Buckner. They have 9.5 sacks between them. They both play with the hands, length and leverage that can give the Raiders problems. This will be the best inside/outside defensive line combo the Raiders have faced. Yannick knows the line well from his one-year in Silver and Black.

Offensively, the Colts have some size and soeed that can give the Raiders problems. Vegas signed Sidney Jones to give them some size and speed outside. He played solid for the Seahawks last year and he is under 30. It is a low-risk and high-reward signing for the Raiders. They can also play Amik Robertson at safety more with John Abram gone. Same goes for Nate Hobbs whenever he returns.

Vegas also needs to probe theh can stop the run. That gets a bit harder with Blake Martinez announcing his retirement this week. Martinez was solid, despite being thrust into a starting role immediately due to injuries. The Raiders interior linemen needs to play stout and with gap integrity. Denzel Perryman and Jayvon Brown play better when they can run around not have to worry about blockers as much.

We know how tough Jonathan Taylor runs. Vegas needs their safeties and linebackers to make tackles. They can’t have any lapses in coverages or penalties that give the Colts a big play.

Vegas needs to take what they want on offense. Get the ball to Adams and Jacobs. Let Hollins and Moreau find mismatches. Stay in front of the chains with short down and distance.

Again, the defensive line is challenged with trying to disrupt the quarterback. The Colts offensive line and quarterback are their weakest links. That means it’s on the defensive line to get some sacks. This is the kind of game where Chandler Jones and Clelin Ferrell earn those millions. It’s also a game Maxx Crosby can dominate.

Vegas can only unlock their true potential as pass rushers if they stay true to the run. This offense runs through Taylor and they will never get a chance to sack the QB if Taylor keeps moving the sticks.

Every week we talk about how the Raiders need to execute for four quarters. They need to take what they want on offense and make turnovers on defense. It’s simple but the time is now. Vegas is playing for every breathe in their season. Can they find their winning ways versus the only team more underachieving than them?