The Raiders absolutely blew it last week. They should’ve beaten that Bears team at home. Instead, they gave Caleb Williams and company way too many opportunities. It all came down to a last-minute field goal. Even if it hadn’t been blocked, it was a long attempt that could’ve easily missed. I don’t want to see my offense in that situation. The Raiders should’ve put the game away long before that final snap. They looked way too comfortable settling for a kick instead of pushing for a touchdown.
That was the theme of the day. Raiders quarterback Geno Smith was shaky, throwing three interceptions and finishing with just 117 passing yards. That’s not an explosive offense.
Defensively, the Raiders did enough to win. They just needed more help from the offense to avoid costly turnovers. Tyree Wilson got a sack, the unit collected eight tackles for loss, and Maxx Crosby even came up with an interception.
Now, they’ll take on a Colts team that got robbed by the Rams last week. Indianapolis had the Rams on the ropes but couldn’t close. Daniel Jones and the Colts offense have been one of the surprises of the season.
Stopping Jonathan Taylor will be the Raiders’ top defensive priority. Taylor already has over 400 rushing yards this season. Tight end Tyler Warren and wideout Michael Pittman Jr. will attack the middle of the field, while Adonai Mitchell—who had huge plays last week—may be limited. The Raiders’ best chance is to disrupt Jones early and often.
Offensively, they’ll be without Kolton Miller and Brock Bowers, two of their better players. That means leaning heavily on Jeanty and the run game. They also need to rediscover their big-play passing attack. Tre Tucker has to stretch the field and change momentum with a deep conversion.
If the offensive line can give Geno Smith time, this is a winnable game. If not, it could be another long Sunday.
