While the rest of the season is a formality for the Las Vegas Raiders, there are still games to be played.
On Sunday, the Raiders hope to find something to build for the future at the expense of the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium.
With last week’s loss to the Los Angeles Chargers and other results around the league, the Raiders are officially out of the running for the playoffs. The final month will mark the end of a disappointing first year at the helm for head coach Pete Carroll and crew, who were coming in to the season with much higher expectations. However, with nothing much to play for, the Raiders can just cut loose and go all out to prove themselves.
Here are a few ways that the Raiders can get the last laugh against an opponent who could get caught overlooking them.
Frustrate Bo again
The last time the Raiders and Broncos squared off, there were some positives to take away despite a 10-7 loss.
Despite inconsistent performances, the Raiders defense is responsible for Broncos quarterback Bo Nix’s worst game of the season. Nix’s 150 passing yards against the Raiders is his lowest mark of the season so far, and it was one of only two games where he threw for two interceptions. If the Raiders have any hope of pulling out the upset, they will need the defense to step up once again and make Nix as uncomfortable as possible.
Willingness to adapt
While the defense was fantastic last time out against the Broncos, the offense sputtering out was a culprit in the loss.
Since then, Greg Olson has taken over for deposed offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, and a couple of changes were noticeable in his first game at the controls against the Chargers. While the heavy usage of Brock Bowers was a nice touch, another week now gives Olson a chance to add more to his playbook and diversify the offense. Whatever puts Geno Smith and Ashton Jeanty in the best position to succeed is what Olson must be willing to do.
Play for yourselves
As much as Raider Nation might be clamoring for a tank, the players and coaches have no intention of doing that.
While they know their season is over after the next month, the Raiders have their own futures to think about. Carroll, Smith and others have found themselves squarely on the hot seat, while younger players are hoping to establish themselves as core pieces moving forward. Expect players to look to step up when the opportunity presents itself against the Broncos and beyond.
