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[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders Week 3: Third down, Red zone success key

Jayden Daniels out, Marcus Mariota in. And will Ashton Jeanty’s workload truly increase?

Those are the top headlines for the Las Vegas Raiders and Washington Commanders matchup this Sunday.

Mariota steps in for the injured Daniels (knee sprain) as the Commanders starting quarterback. And the No. 2 overall pick in the2015 NFL Draft is more than capable of captaining Washington’s offense. Both Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly — who was Mariota’s head coach at Oregon — and quarterbacks coach Greg Olson — who was the offensive coordinator in name only during Mariota’s time in Las Vegas in 2021 — can provide some inside insight on the replacement signal caller.

Flip it to the Silver & Black, from head coach Pete Carroll to quarterback Geno Smith, the Raiders want to get Jeanty — the sixth overall pick from the 2025 draft — more involved in the offense. Balance and involvement dominated the media sessions this week so it’ll be interesting to see if the want become reality.

While the prime skill positions of quarterback and running back are integral to a team’s operation, what’s also key in the Raiders-Commanders matchup: Third down and red zone success.

Marcus Mariota with the Commanders last season:

77.3 CMP%
364 passing yards
92 rushing yards
5 TDs

More than capable of stepping in for Jayden Daniels pic.twitter.com/lv3Fm9pqBy

— DraftKings Network (@DKNetwork) September 19, 2025

Both Las Vegas (1-1) and Washington (1-1) are coming off disappointing defeats — the Raiders got dropped 20-9 by the Los Angeles Chargers and the Commanders got rocked 27-18 by the Green Bay Packers — but boast stingy defensive units, particularly, on third down.

Patrick Graham’s Raiders defense limited opposing offenses to eight third-down conversions on 25 attempts and that 32 percent rate gives the Silver & Black the third stingiest in the league. Joe Whitt Jr’s Commanders defense, on the other hand, allowed just nine third-down conversions on 28 attempts and the 32.1 percent rate ranks fourth best in the NFL.

Scoring red zone touchdowns on Las Vegas is equally as difficult.

Through two games, opponents have made it to the Raiders’ 20-yard line six times, and only twice have the opposition visited the end zone in those instances. That 33.3 percent clip gives Graham’s unit the fifth-best rank in the league. The Commanders, meanwhile, allowed three end zone visits on the six occasions teams made it to the red zone and that 50 percent clip gives Washington the 11th-best ranking.

What helps both Graham and Whitt in this regard are having veteran defenders to provide the on-field mentorship and leadership. And it shouldn’t surprise you that the veteran presences on both teams are former Seattle Seahawks who excelled under Pete Carroll in the Pacific Northwest: Bobby Wagner and Jamal Adams.

Wagner leads Washington with a team-high 21 total tackles while playing 100 percent of the defensive snaps through two contests. Even at age 35, Wagner hasn’t slowed down a bit since being the 47th overall pick by the Seahawks back int he 2012 draft. Adams, meanwhile, plays with a frenetic energy that’s visible to the naked eye. And while his snap count isn’t as lofty as Wagner (44 to the Commanders linebacker’s 136 count), Adams has six total tackles but brings a ferocity and physicality to the Raiders defense when called upon.

It’s vital for both veterans to lead by example again this Sunday.

Las Vegas Raiders DC Patrick Graham on LB Jamal Adams #raiders #raidernation #LasVegasRaiders #nfl #lasvegasraidersonsi pic.twitter.com/iCx6Ahbaqg

— Hondo Carpenter (@HondoCarpenter) September 19, 2025

Graham again highlighted how vital communications is to his defensive group. And that along with physicality and violence is creating a unit that’s limited the opposition to three points in the second half of the team’s first two games of the season.

“One thing, the guys are doing a good job at halftime, coming in recognizing what the team is trying to do in the first half,” Graham said. “And really, they and the coaches have done a great job of adjusting the game plan to attack whatever strengths they had in the beginning part of the game, and the guys have had the discipline to stay with it throughout the second half. So, that’s been a positive, something to grow off of.”

“There’s a lot of feedback that goes on, like, ‘Hey, what are you seeing? Do you remember this formation?’ Just a lot of communication between myself, the coaches and the players,” Graham continued when asked about communication. “So, whether it’s a veteran, I mean, some of the younger linebackers, you talk about the Patriots game, Tommy (Eichenberg) came in. He’s a young linebacker. So, it’s really what they’re seeing, and then, ‘Can we get to what we want to get to? Can we take this away?’ It’s just all about communication. Doesn’t matter age or experience, it’s just about communication.”

Head-to-Head​

Sunday’s game marks the 15th meeting between the two teams. The Raiders hold the slight edge in all-time meetings with an 8-7 win-loss record. In regular season play, however, it’s all knotted up at seven games, apiece. That 1-0 mark for the Silver & Black in postseason play was the 38-9 shellacking the Raiders handed the then-Redskins in Super Bowl XVIII. That all noted, it’s Washington that rides a four-game winning streak into this matchup, the most recent of which was a 17-15 win back in December of 2021. The last time the Raiders beat the Commanders: November of 2005 — a 16-13 victory.

Quote of Note​

“Yeah, he’s a stud football player and an even better human. I mean, he’s one of the more special people I’ve had an opportunity to meet in my life. He’s a class act. He’s a hell of a player, and he’s also a class act. And if Jayden (Daniels) can’t play and Marcus can, then these guys know him. He was here. Greg Olson coached him and knows him really well. Oly [Greg Olson] has coached him at the professional level. I had him at the collegiate level, so we got the utmost respect. And I think Jayden is an unbelievable player. I saw Jayden play in high school and I played against him in college too, and he’s an amazing player. You’re talking about two guys that were both Heisman Trophy winners, two guys that were both the second pick in the draft. And there’s a reason for that. So, it’s something for our defensive guys that they are very conscious of.”

—Las Vegas Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly on Washington Commanders backup quarterback Marcus Mariota

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...aiders-week-3-third-down-red-zone-success-key

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders-Commanders game thread

Jayden Daniels

Discuss the game here and in our FEED section on the right side of the front page.

Head to the comments section to share your thoughts and join the conversation. You can sign up for a commenting account below and we have full-time moderators to enforce the Community Guidelines.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/game-day-threads/107924/raiders-commanders-game-thread

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders are favorites for the first time Week 4 vs. The Bears

The Las Vegas Raiders put in their worst performance of the 2025 season so far, losing to the Commanders 41-24 on Sunday. It was an unimpressive outing from all three phases, resulting in an embarrassing road loss.

Coming up next for the Raiders is the Chicago Bears, who pulled out their first victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Pete Carroll is hoping to have his team prepared to end the two-game slide and get to 500.

Fanduel Sportsbook posted odds for all the games of the second week of the season. The Raiders are 1.5-point favorites against the Chicago Bears with an over/under (O/U) of 44.5.

A full slate of matchups this week to start NFL action. The biggest favorites for the upcoming games, according to Fanduel, are the Buffalo Bills -16.5 over the New Orleans Saints.

Check out the opening odds below:

Bears vs. Raiders

Moneyline: Raiders -116 Bears -102

Opening point spread: -1.5

Opening point total: 47.5

For the complete list of Week 4 opening odds around the league, visit our friends at FanDuel Sportsbook.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...orites-for-the-first-time-week-4-vs-the-bears

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders Rookie Class: Overreact or Patience

The Raiders suffered a disappointing week three loss to the Commanders 41-24, a large part came with massive defensive struggles for the first time this season. The Raiders allowed 400 total yards, which isn’t a recipe for success in the NFL. Through three weeks, one thing has remained consistent, the lack of snaps from their rookie class.

First rounder Ashton Jeanty has yet to log a game averaging over 4 YPC, though a large contribution for this has come with the Raiders incredibly low level of play from their offensive line. Las Vegas has seen their run block win rate rank 32nd, something that likely won’t change much after just 93 yards vs the Commanders on 28 attempts while also allowing eight tackles for loss. Despite the offensive line struggles, third round rookies Caleb Rogers and Charles Grant have yet to record a snap, with Rogers only being active vs the Chargers on MNF in a worst case scenario situation. Rogers played over 3000 snaps at Texas Tech including snaps at LT, both guard spots, though the majority came at RT. Rogers converted to guard in the NFL, and is 120 preseason snaps allowed 4 pressures with a 49.6 PFF Grade. With the struggles of Dylan Parham and Alex Cappa the Raiders have yet to put Rogers on the field. Rogers was viewed as a slight developmental prospect coming out of college, the 23 year old needs to refine his technique and tap more into his athleticism while also learning guard. Fellow third rounder Charles Grant, out of William & Mary, was never expected to play in 2025. Coming out of the FCS, the 6’5/300 T is making an adjustment. Grant plays with excellent pad level, his highly athletic, and has a wrestling background all of which will help him in his NFL future. Grant needs to refine his technique, add muscle, and continue to adapt to the offensive line, a position he hasn’t played much. Grant played 112 snaps in preseason allowing 7 pressures though he did flash against the 49ers and has shown the ability to be a starter soon.

Raiders Rookie LT Charles Grant on a backside cutoff.

The William & Mary product has a ton of potential with his athleticism.@WMTribeFootball pic.twitter.com/Aty1EcO6pU

— Last of the Fullbacks (@TheLastFullback) August 23, 2025

Rookie receivers Jack Bech and Dont’e Thornton have been up and down. After logging a 20 yard reception vs the Patriots in week 1, Bech didn’t see the field much logging few snaps vs the Chargers before seeing more time vs the Commanders. Bech logged 1 catch for 10 yards in one target, though he did start to see more play time after pushing for his spot back. Dont’e Thornton was the Raiders starter most of pre-season and the 6’5, 4.3 speed WR has flashed at times. He’s logged 5 receptions for 94 yards but the largest struggle has come with his ability to create separation underneath. Prior to today’s game, Thornton is averaging just 1.3 yards of separation which is bottom 10% in the NFL. Largely due to his limited route tree history and need to develop route running, those traits will come along but for now it’s a limit. I’d imagine the Raiders will see Jack Bech play more in the coming weeks, especially with Tre Tucker having a breakout game and being the Raiders most explosive player through three weeks. Tucker’s ability to create separation (3.7 yards average) and become a vertical threat will allow for Bech to work on the field more, especially underneath as a safety valve.

Dont'e Thornton feels primed to explode. On Go routes this season, Thornton ranks:

-1st in Average Separation Score (0.545)

-1st in Route Win Rate (45.5%)

He would have an 86-yard TD and a 59-yard TD by now if Geno hit him in stride. See for yourself below.

Data via… pic.twitter.com/h6FjKwKbLs

— JohnJohn Analysis (@JohnJohnalytics) September 18, 2025

Rookie defensive lineman JJ Pegues and Tonka Hemingway had strong preseasons but they’ve yet to play in a game this season. The Raiders have gotten productive play from Thomas Booker and Adam Butler while Jonah Laulu has been adequate as a rotational defensive lineman. Pegues needs to add weight to his frame to eventually play more nose tackle, while Hemingway also needs to add more muscle and work more consistently at 3T and 5T unlike the wide nine he played at South Carolina at times. I’d expect to see both play more throughout the season, especially with the Raiders seemingly rotating their defensive lineman more often. For a team that lacks juice on the interior, they need to see what is possible out of their rookies. Lastly, rookie CB Darien Porter hasn’t seen much play time though his first defensive snaps came against the Commanders. Porter struggled in preseason but has taken his way into a cornerback position it seems. The 6’4 CB is an elite athlete but struggled with his technique during preseason. Porter was s developmental CB prospect, and the Raiders are going to be patient with him, especially due to his limited playtime at the position. 7th rounder Cody Lindenberg has seen time on special teams logging 2 tackles.

At this time, it would be worth being a little worried over the Raiders not seeing play time out of Darien Porter or Jack Bech with Porter having a ton of hype coming around in preseason while Bech was a 2nd round pick. Overall the lack of playtime from the two of them has been a bit of a concern, though it appears both will be playing more often. As for the third round offensive lineman, there’s no worry for their lack of playtime as neither were expected to play. In terms of the defensive lineman, the Raiders have to get them involved and they need to see what they have with rookies at that position especially given the weak play from anyone behind Booker and Butler.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/general/110392/raiders-rookie-class-thornton-porter-bech-jeanty

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders-Commanders winners and losers: Time for Pete Carroll and Co. to look in the mirror

There’s plenty of blame to go around after the Las Vegas Raiders’ blowout loss to the Washington Commanders and backup quarterback Marcus Mariota in Week 3. The Raiders looked like a team that was completely overmatched as they were dominated in just about every phase of the game, leaving little room for optimism in this week’s winners and losers.

LOSER: Pete Carroll​

Anytime a team gets blown out like that, fingers have to start pointing at the head coach. Las Vegas clearly wasn’t ready to play coming off the short week, allowing a long kick return to begin the game. That’s on Carroll since it’s his job to get the team ready to go. Also, it doesn’t help that the offensive line is one of the Raiders’ biggest problems right now, and Pete hired his son, Brennan, to coach the unit.

That’s the type of decision that better work out because it looks like nothing more than a nepotism move when it doesn’t, and so far, the results in the trenches have been piss-poor. On that note, Pete told reporters the decision to start Alex Cappa over a healthy Jackson Powers-Johnson was due to “continuity”. Well, Cappa didn’t play well for the second week in a row, and the entire interior offensive line has been a mess so far. Maybe the new coaching staff’s decision to reshuffle the group has something to do with that…

LOSER: Special Teams​

As referenced above, the Silver and Black allowed Deebo Samuel to return the opening kickoff 69 yards and gave the Commanders the ball at the 27-yard line. That ended up setting a tone for the rest of the game, as Washington scored and held the lead for all but 49 seconds the rest of the way out.

In total, the Raiders gave up a combined 245 yards on kick and punt returns (h/t ESPN’s Ryan McFadden), headlined by a 90-yard punt return for a touchdown that made it a three-score game in the third quarter. To make matters worse, the Commanders also had a long punt return that was called back by a penalty, so the total yards allowed could have been even worse.

WINNER: Tre Tucker​

While there weren’t many performances from the Raiders to celebrate, Tucker having a career day deserves some recognition. He finished with eight catches for 145 yards and three touchdowns, all of which are personal bests for the third-year pro. It’s also the first time he’s had a 100-yard performance in the NFL. So, if there’s one silver lining in an otherwise abysmal day, it’s that Tucker might have taken the next step in his development.

LOSER: DJ Glaze​

The pendulum continues to swing for Glaze, who has been both a winner and a loser in the Raiders’ first two games and is back in the latter category this week. Pass protection remains the third-year pro’s biggest issue, and Sunday was the worst performance he’s had so far this season, allowing six pressures (two sacks) and earning a 45.8 pass-blocking grade, according to Pro Football Focus.

Glaze has also posted below-average marks as a run-blocker in three out of three weeks, meaning his seat should be warming up if it isn’t already on fire.

LOSER: Dylan Parham​

On a similar note, Parham is still having issues at left guard. Las Vegas can’t run the ball, and he’s part of the problem with a 52.2 PFF run-blocking grade on the season, including a 51.5 mark on Sunday. He also gave up a sack for the second week in a row, and is trending in the wrong direction, especially for a player on a contract year.

LOSER: Malcolm Koonce​

Koonce has been pretty quiet to begin the campaign and didn’t show up in the box score at all in Washington. Additionally, he was a big part of the problem why the Raiders couldn’t stop the run, posting the lowest PFF run defense grade (34.3) on the team. Granted, Koonce is known as a pass-rusher, but he only registered one pressure on the afternoon. Putting it simply, the defense needs more out of its No. 2 edge defender.

LOSER: Kyu Blu Kelly​

Going up against Terry McLaurin is a tough task for any cornerback, let alone one who is making his third career start. But Washington’s offensive game plan was clearly to pick on Kelly, as he was Las Vegas’ most-targeted defender (five) and surrendered four completions for a team-high 87 yards, per PFF.

To be fair, Kelly was solid in the team’s first two games and still has a bright future, but Sunday was certainly a missed opportunity to make a name for himself.

WINNER: Jonah Laulu​

Again, there weren’t many silver linings for the Silver and Black this weekend, but Laulu was one of the few reasons for optimism. He managed to get a TFL and was one of the few positive run defenders, earning a 73.8 PFF grade in that department while coming up with three defensive stops.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com.../110459/raiders-commanders-winners-and-losers

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raiders offensive line lacking in fundamentals

The Raiders offensive line has struggled, and that’s slightly an understatement. Prior to week 3 the Raiders rank 32nd in RBLK win rate, 19th in PBLK win rate, 12th in pass block grade, 17th in run block grade, 27th in sacks/game, and 23rd in pressure rate. The Raiders are on pace to have Geno Smith sacked 68 times and pressured on nearly 30% of his snaps. In terms of the running game, rookie 6th overall pick has been hit behind or at the LOS on 57% of his rush attempts this season including 11 of 17 vs the Commanders. It’s difficult for the Raiders to establish a fluid running game when they lack fundamentals and struggle to maintain discipline in their blocks.

3rd & 1, blown up immediately. NT aligned directly over C Meredith beats him quickly with swim move into A gap, catching Meredith leaning forward. LB shots the gap through back side A gap to make TFL.#RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/xeNo9eZPk9

— Ryan Holmes (@Rholm22) September 17, 2025

The Raiders moved Jordan Meredith to center, a position he hasn’t played since high school and it hasn’t worked out the greatest. Meredith looks confused at times, struggling to maintain his assignment on help blocks which prevents the Raiders from getting consistent efforts in the run game. Additionally, they’ve been rotating at right guard with Jackson Powers-Johnson, who missed week 2 and then didn’t play in week 3 while the Raiders attempted to “maintain consistency” with Alex Cappa according to head coach Pete Carroll. In addition to moving Powers-Johnson and Meredith to positions they aren’t accustomed too, the Raiders slid Dylan Parham to left guard where he’s historically struggled compared to his play at right guard. Rookie DJ Glaze has looked fluid in the first two weeks but struggled vs the Commanders allowing at least two sacks. The Raiders attempts to move Meredith to center haven’t worked, he’s not accustomed to the position, and with that hasn’t been the most consistent with his snaps. Jackson Powers-Johnson needs to be on the teams starting offensive line, and likely back at center where he looked extremely good to end to the 2024 season while also having played at an All-American level his final two seasons at Oregon while at center. In run blocking, the Raiders aren’t fluid, they lack overall communication, and the interior offensive line looks uncomfortable and lacking assignments at times. When it comes to pass protection, those same issues have arose with the interior offensive line struggling to adapt to blitz packages especially from the ILB and safeties. Players have been consistently pushed back out of their gaps and struggle to anchor. Additionally teams have attacked the interior with stunts and delayed blitzes with pass rushers having the ability to get free lanes attacking the Raiders communication and consistency on the interior.

Well blocked trap play allowing C Meredith to work directly to second level. RG Cappa blocks the DT in A gap. RT Glaze blocks out on DE, TE Mayer whams the DT in B gap.#RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/aRDc2VheCu

— Ryan Holmes (@Rholm22) September 17, 2025

The Raiders need to get their fundamentals corrected on the offensive line especially on the interior. A step could be the Raiders switching Meredith and Jackson Powers-Johnson back to their positions in 2024 where the team did see signs towards the end of the season of being a potential league average offensive line. Additionally, working on improving not only consistency but also their communication is going to help in providing more stability with stunts. If the Raiders can’t get their interior offensive line working to get push in the run game then the Raiders need to get an adjustment going on their playcalling. The Raiders have yet to run an effective running back screen something that would help to get the ball into Ashton Jeanty’s hands in the open field. Additionally, the Raiders are running between the guards at a 42% rate prior to counting week 3 and have only ran outside the tackle on just 9% of their rushing attempts.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...ve-line-struggles-fundamentals-jeanty-carroll

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Wednesday open thread

Head to the comments section to share your thoughts and join the conversation. You can sign up for a commenting account below and we have full-time moderators to enforce the Community Guidelines.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/general/107256/wednesday-open-thread

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Ben Johnson or Pete Carroll?

Ben Johnson is, indeed, coming to coach at Allegiant Stadium.

He, of course, will be bring the Chicago Bears with him to face the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.

Johnson, of course, was at the top of the Raiders’ wish list n January when they were looking to replace the fired Antonio Pierce. Johnson, then the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, was considered the coaching prize of the 2025 coaching hiring cycle.

To some people’s surprise, Johnson agreed to talk to the Raiders despite them not being considered an overly attractive opening and the fact that had a big question at quarterback. But Johnson did talk to Tom Brady and company and, in fact, some media members considered the Raiders the favorite to land Johnson.

In the end, he went to Chicago to coach Caleb Williams.

The Raiders turned their attention t0 Pete Carroll. Now, Johnson and Carroll will square off Sunday in a battle of 1-2 teams.

Now, that the season is here, who would you rather be coaching the Silver and Black? Sign up and go to the comments section.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/general/110624/raiders-bears-ben-johnson-pete-carroll

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Submit your Week 4 mailbag questions!

It’s time to flush the embarrassing loss to the Washington Commanders and move on to Week 4, as the Las Vegas Raiders take on the Chicago Bears. I’m sure you have plenty of questions about the offensive line, and I’m taking bets on how many “when will Brennan Carroll get fired?” questions I get (LOL), as that seems to be a popular topic within Raider Nation recently. So, hit me with what ya got, and feel free to ask about other players and coaches as well.

As always, anything Raiders-related is on the table and fire away with anything that’s on your mind. Send your questions my way by either dropping a comment in the comments section below, tweeting at me (@MHolder95) or via email at [email protected]. I’ll follow up with another column in the coming days.

If you don’t have a commenting account already, you’ll need to create one but the steps are pretty easy and it’s a seamless process. Also, we have full-time moderators to enforce the Community Guidelines. As you may already know, SB Nation switched platforms so you may need to log back into your account to comment. Here are a few guidelines on what you may need to do, and reach out to [email protected] if you’re having issues.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...110711/raiders-bears-week-4-mailbag-questions

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Chip Kelly’s offense has a college apporach

When the Las Vegas Raiders hired Chip Kelly in the offseason, there was excitement about the creativity he would bring to the NFL. After three games, the Raiders are 26th in points per game and have the same ranking in overall EPA. The offense that was supposed to be the leader of the football team is not holding its own weight.

One of the issues with the offense is Kelly’s scheme itself. Kelly has experience in the NFL, which led to an expectation that he would be able to transition his offense to professional football. However, what we have seen is Kelly sticking with his college style in the run and pass game, and it has led to a team that is struggling to score points.

Former NFL tight end Logan Paulsen reviewed the film after the loss to the Commanders and pointed out the glaring issues with Kelly’s offense.

“This is going to sound mean, but I don’t mean it to be in a mean way. This is like, it feels like a very collegey offense,” Paulsen said on the Take Command podcast. “It’s the spacing, the formations, the distribution, all feel very ‘collegy.’”

Former NFL TE @LoganPaulsenNFL gives a honest assessment of the #Raiders Offense:

“It feels like a collegey offense….” pic.twitter.com/nN4uXWKQQv

— Around The Shield (@aroundtheshield) September 23, 2025

Paulsen does make a good point, but on the interception, that is a play the Dolphins have run for years under Mike McDaniel. When it comes to the running game, the designs of the runs are lacking. When the hashes are closer, you can’t spread teams out to take safeties and linebackers out of the run game. The NFL is more condensed, and the spacing has caused issues for many play callers attempting to make the transition.

When it comes to the passing game, you can see a few of the same issues. In the play below, Tre Tucker and Jakobi Meyers are running a post-wheel concept that is prevalent in the NFL. The players’ spread-out leads to a spacing issue where Tucker and Meyers are in the same spot. Tucker runs an unorthodox post route because of it, and Meyers can’t get separation.

Also, the timing of the offense is off due to this, resulting in more sacks on the quarterback. Since most college offenses are designed for explosive plays and not timing, it is forcing Geno Smith to hold the ball longer. His time to throw in the season is 3.05 seconds according to PFF.com.

Hopefully, Kelly will start to make adjustments and try to add more of the West Coast elements he ran at Ohio State. Right now, the Raiders are looking like Oregon.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/general/110693/chip-kellys-offense-has-a-college-apporach

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Silver Minings: Tom Brady makes statement on conflict of interest

The Las Vegas Raiders owner, Tom Brady, has been making noise since the home opener vs. the Los Angeles Chargers. Brady was seen in the booth with a headset on, appearing to help the team run the offense.

With the video going viral on social media, there has arisen about Brady’s potential conflict of interest. The seven-time Super Bowl champion is the head color commentator for Fox NFL. It has led to plenty of thinkpieces and posts from teams and fans worried that Brady could be sitting with the Raiders for success with inside information.

In his weekly newsletter, Brady addressed the rumors and the issues people are having with his involvement with the Raiders. He is not a fan of the craziness that surrounded the viral moment.

“I love football. At its core, it is a game of principles. And with all the success it has given me, I feel I have a moral and ethical duty to the sport; which is why the point where my roles in it intersect is not actually a point of conflict, despite what the paranoid and distrustful might believe,” Brady wrote. “Rather, it’s the place from which my ethical duty emerges: to grow, evolve, and improve the game that has given me everything.”

While people are worried about Brady’s position with the Raiders, it hasn’t helped the offense take the next step. The Silver and Black are 26th in scoring, and there has been no improvement from the previous year. If there is a conflict of interest, Raider Nation is waiting for that to take fruition on the field.

In other Raiders links:

• TDL Thursday night live show: The Tape Don’t Lie crew went over the Raiders over/unders and latest Raiders news in their newest episode.
• Raiders injury report for Week 4: Check out the Raiders injury report for Week 4.
• Tre Tucker proves timing is everything: Levi Edwards of Raiders.com has the scoop on Tre Tucker’s rise in the offense during his third season.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...brady-makes-statement-on-conflict-of-interest

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Run game revival out of reach for Raiders?

If there’s a something at Las Vegas Raiders headquarters that says “In Case of Emergency Break Glass” on it, that thing should’ve been shattered long ago.

With the Silver & Black offensive line in serious need of a defibrillator through the first three games of the 2025 season, there’s no more dire of a calamity in Las Vegas.

The Raiders are in the league cellar when it comes to rushing offense ranking 30th out of the 32 teams with 217 yards on 71 carries and one touchdown. Averaging just 3.1 yards per carry and 72.3 yards per game, the Raiders are only ahead of the Pittsburgh Steelers (189 yards on 67 carries, one touchdown, 2.8 yards per carry and 63 yards per game averages) and Cincinnati Bengals (147 yards on 61 carries, two touchdowns, 2.4 yards per carry and 49 yards per game averages).

Flip it to the aerial attack and, while Las Vegas may boast the No. 6 group in yards thrown (744), the team ranks second overall in sacks allowed at 12. The Raiders’ woes were ever-present in the team’s 41-24 loss to the Washington Commanders in Week 3. Prized rookie running back Ashton Jeanty was waylaid constantly when given opportunities to carry the rock. And quarterback Geno Smith was under duress just as constantly getting sacked five times. (Clarification on the yards thrown stat above, Smith has thrown for 831 yards, but that 774 sum is minus the yards lost in sacks).

There was even a clip during Sunday’s broadcast of Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly and senior offensive assistant Joe Philbin expressing their frustration. The exasperation is shared globally amongst Raider Nation, too.

Even Chip Kelly and Joe Philbin are tired of the offensive line, especially Parham. https://t.co/X5NlnA0hQh

— Anthony Galaviz (@agalaviz_TheBee) September 21, 2025

Now comes the key part: What are the Raiders coaches going to do about it?

Because if this moribund trend continues, a run game revival will truly be out of reach for the Raiders. Fortunately for the Silver & Black, it’s not at that point — yet.

Line Item​

Forget a move back to center for Jackson Powers-Johnson. Raiders head coach Pete Carroll was quick to shoot that notion down on Wednesday afternoon.

“Absolutely not, no,” Carroll said when asked if he’d consider a front group like last season that saw Jordan Meredith at left guard, Powers-Johnson at center, and Dylan Parham at right guard.

“We’ve invested a lot of time with these guys playing in their spots,” Carrol added. “I know you’re interested in JPJ (Jackson Powers-Johnson). This is an official week to practice and to get ready. Last week was not that. So, he’s ready to compete for the playing time, and he and Alex (Cappa) will be going at it. So, it’s a good situation in that regard.”

Noting that Powers-Johnson hasn’t “hit anyone in about two weeks”, that’s Carroll’s reasoning for the competition at the right guard spot with Cappa.

Thus, a focus on communication and fundamentals — both items lacking in the lifeblood of any NFL offense — for the Raiders offensive line is under a spotlight as opposed to personnel changes up front. While having the same group in the trenches likely won’t be appealing to many, Las Vegas has no choice but to forge on as Carroll indicates the line will remain the same.

Grin & Bear It​

Las Vegas’ Week 4 matchup with the Chicago Bears (1-2 overall) is appealing for the Silver & Black based on rankings. Chicago walks into Allegiant Stadium with the 26th-ranked run defense in terms of yards allowed (418).

If there’s an opponent where honing communication and execution can synergize into a positive thing, it’s Chicago and Las Vegas is playing at home.

The Raiders aren’t devoid of running success. There are glimpses of when things click and Jeanty gains ground and punishes defenders. But far too often, there’s miscues not only in the trenches with the offensive line, but also with Jeanty picking misreading what’s developing in front of him.

Kelly even went to the 80's using G lead, and it worked, but Jeanty misreads Wagner and tries to cut back inside. pic.twitter.com/7PlgGsTMep

— Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) September 22, 2025

It’s must be a collective effort between Kelly, offensive line coach Brennan Carroll, assistant line coach Andy Dickerson, and Philbin. Brennan, who also has run game coordinator on his title, is taking a lot of flak for the lack of success and for good reason. If he can’t get the offensive line to shape up, play together, and be the effective engine up front, the nepotism hire (Pete is his dad) murmurs grow louder.

Outside The Box​

I’ve long said the absence of the Power I formation with a true fullback in front of a running back the last two seasons is blasphemy when it comes to Raiders traditions. And I’m well aware that it’s highly likely a fullback won’t be on Las Vegas roster with Kelly as the play caller.

But there’s an intriguing rookie on the roster right now who has potential to not only be a burly lead blocker, but a short-yardage terror as a ball carrier himself: JJ Pegues.

The 6-foot-2 and 325-pound defensive tackle has yet to be active in Las Vegas’ first three games of the year, but with the run game struggling and opposing teams stuffing short-yardage attempts, why not give Pegues a look-see?

He has the size and strength along with power and nimble feet to make things at least interesting. Pegues, who went from a tight end at Auburn over to the defensive side of the ball at Mississippi State, was a fixture in Lane Kiffin’s short-yardage/goal line packages getting 21 carries for 69 yards and seven touchdowns last season.

Pegues can’t possibly do any worse than running backs Zamir White (10 carries for 25 yards) and Dylan Laube (three carries for two yards) and would be a textbook example of the type of thing you break glass for in case of emergency.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...506/run-game-revival-out-of-reach-for-raiders

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Jamal Adams Deserving of More Snaps

The Raiders have seen quality play from their linebackers with Germaine Pratt and Devin White consistently starting and playing at a strong quality of play at the second level. In addition to white, veteran Elandon Roberts has played well against the run though he does have his struggles at times with tackling which has limited how often he sees the field. White and Pratt have taken majority of the snaps for Las Vegas, and both have started all three games, where White has quickly logged 25 tackles, 4 TFL, 8 stops, and a 81.3 QBR allowed in 187 snaps though he’s also coming off his worst game of the season vs Washington where he missed 37.5% of his tackles. Pratt has played at the level the Raiders were hoping he can return to following his release in Cincinnati. The veteran has been a standout in coverage allowing a 83.5 QBR and 2 PBU while adding 3 stops, 17 tackles, and 2 TFL as well in 165 snaps. As for Roberts, the veteran run defender has logged just 81 snaps but has been highly productive with 5 stops, 11 tackles, and 2 TFL. Despite all the success from the Raiders linebackers, one hasn’t seen the field often and is likely deserving of more play time.

LB Jamal Adams in C2 playing hook/curl, defeats the block by the WR who goes in motion across formation, makes nice tackle, Crosby cleans it up at end.#RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/Yi91Y64T75

— Ryan Holmes (@Rholm22) September 24, 2025

Jamal Adams has logged just 59 snaps for Las Vegas and has seen his snap count drop each week from 25 in week 1, 19 in week 2, and eventually 15 in week 3. Despite this, Adams has stayed productive allowing just 11 yards on 3 targets with a PBU with another 6 stops, 8 tackles, 2 TFL, 2 pressures, and a quarterback hit. Adams’ 6 stops rank 2nd on the Raiders tied with Maxx Crosby (186 snaps), Jonah Laulu (101 snaps), and Adam Butler (145 snaps). Adams has also been good in coverage, which plays similar to his pro bowl days where he played well in short coverage drops that allowed for him to maintain his eyes on the quarterback and also work laterally at quick bursts. The Raiders have deployed a variety of defenders around the defense, with Jeremy Chinn logging 82 snaps at SS, 53 at FS, and 51 at nickel corner. Meanwhile, the Raiders have also deployed Adams in a similar fashion playing him nearly 75% of the time in the slot, when Chinn plays a deep strong safety role. Las Vegas has kept Adams closer to the line of scrimmage, where he’s played 0 snaps at free safety and only 11 at strong safety. While not a perfect interpretation, Adams is also the teams highest graded player on defense ranking 9th among all NFL linebackers (86.5), 7th pass rushing (83.7), 41st against the run (70.6), and 9th in coverage (81.6). His 6 stops are tied for 24th in the NFL as well.

Jamal Adams was the highest graded defender for the Raiders according to PFF.

Had 3 pressures blitzing and looked good against the run. Made the most of his 25 snaps.

3 of his best plays below. pic.twitter.com/lzy9EOvka7

— Marcus Johnson (@TheMarcJohnNFL) September 10, 2025

Adams has consistently popped on film as well quickly diagnosing the run and being able to make plays in space. He’s played stout run defense vs offensive lineman and is able to hold his own at the second level and work upfield. Additionally, Adams shows the coverage traits he’s shown in flashes while working at the 2nd level which allows for him to eliminate the struggles he had on 15+ yard coverage assignments. The Raiders have used Jamal Adams in a variety of roles, and he’s excelled. Despite the Raiders quality play at linebacker, they need to find a way to continue getting Adams on the field and allow more athleticism at the second level in order to prevent their struggles in 10-15 yard coverage assignments where Las Vegas is among the worst in the NFL in terms of allowed reception rate, yardage, and 3rd down conversions.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com/general/110831/jamal-adams-raiders-deserving-playtime

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Raider fan confidence is down to its lowest level.

The Las Vegas Raiders are coming off another ugly performance, losing to the Washington Commanders 41-24. It is their second loss in a row, and there are many questions about the Silver and Black going forward

While the offense struggled against the Los Angeles Chargers, the defense had its worst game of the season so far. They allowed over 200 yards rushing and didn’t seem prepared. While the offense continues to find its footing despite struggles across the offensive line, the defense’s struggles led to a blowout defeat. Next up for the Raiders is the Chicago Bears at home.

In this week’s SB Nation Reacts, we ask the Raider Nation what their confidence is in the team’s direction. The results are in, and there was a steep drop to 24%.

Hopefully, the Raiders are ready for a bounce back at home. It will be heavy with Bears fans who were prepared to make the trip to Las Vegas for the weekend. It will be nice if the Raiders can send them home in a depressed mood.

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...er-fan-confidence-is-down-to-its-lowest-level

 

[Las Vegas Raiders]

Silver Minings: Albert Okwuegbunam and Carter Runyon elevated from practice squad against Bears

The Las Vegas Raiders elevated tight ends Albert Okwuegbunam and Carter Runyon from the practice squad to the active roster ahead of Sunday’s Week 4 game against the Chicago Bears.

The Raiders enter the contest thin at tight end. Starter Brock Bowers suffered a knee injury in the season opener, and while he hasn’t missed a game and is expected to play against the Bears, Bowers isn’t 100 percent and has been playing with a knee brace during the last two weeks. Also, second tight end Michael Mayer exited last Sunday’s matchup with the Washington Commanders after suffering a concussion and has already been ruled out for the upcoming contest.

Okwuegbunam is a four-year veteran who has accumulated 54 catches, 546 yards and one touchdown in 30 games (seven starts) with the Denver Broncos and Philadelphia Eagles. He signed with the Raiders at the beginning of training camp and was one of the club’s six veterans added to the practice squad after failing to make the team.

Meanwhile, Runyon is a rookie undrafted free agent. So, this will be his NFL regular-season debut if he sees action against the Bears.

In Other Raiders’ Links:​

• Jon Gruden shares thoughts on Pete Carroll: “Well, it’s still early in his regime, let’s not forget that,” Gruden told Derek and David Carr on the Carrs’ Home Grown podcast (h/t Heavy on Raiders’ Austin Boyd). “It’s his third game; he’s only been there for three games. We’ve got to get the running game going. I don’t know what the running game is … but they’ve got to get Ashton Jeanty introduced to Raider Nation. He’s the sixth pick in the draft. We have to get this man going and take some pressure off our offensive line.”
• Jackson Powers-Johnson and Alex Cappa both to play: Carroll said that both Powers-Johnson and Cappa will get snaps at right guard against the Bears, via KTNV’s Nick Walters.
• Fan confidence low: “In this week’s SB Nation Reacts, we asked the Raider Nation what their confidence is in the team’s direction,” our Marcus Johnson wrote. “The results are in, and there was a steep drop to 24%.”
• More playing time for Jamal Adams?: “Adams has logged just 59 snaps for Las Vegas and has seen his snap count drop each week from 25 in week 1, 19 in week 2, and eventually 15 in week 3,” our Tristian Kuhn wrote. “Despite this, Adams has stayed productive, allowing just 11 yards on 3 targets with a PBU with another 6 stops, 8 tackles, 2 TFL, 2 pressures, and a quarterback hit. Adams’ 6 stops rank 2nd on the Raiders tied with Maxx Crosby (186 snaps), Jonah Laulu (101 snaps), and Adam Butler (145 snaps).”

Source: https://www.silverandblackpride.com...s-news-albert-okwuegbunam-carter-runyon-bears