Franchise-changing decisions have been made in Las Vegas over the past two weeks. Since replacing the head coach and the general manager, the Raiders seem happier and more engaged — and now, they’re on a winning streak.
Las Vegas defeated the New York Jets 16-12 on Sunday Night Football — and at 5-5, the Raiders are in the postseason mix. It’s a significant change from how the team played under previous head coach Josh McDaniels, as new coach Antonio Pierce has generated tremendous buy-in from his star players and is so far reaping the rewards.
One such star player is Davante Adams, who has been frustrated with his role at various points since joining the Raiders via trade in 2022. But under Pierce, Adams is a central part of the game plan, and he seems delighted as ever as Las Vegas plots a playoff push.
Pierce: Of course we’re going to target Adams, I’m not stupid
Adams caught six passes for a team-high 86 yards on Sunday night, with nearly half the yardage coming on a 42-yard reception from quarterback Aidan O’Connell in the first quarter. O’Connell lost his footing a bit after taking the snap, but found Adams in some space — and the All-Pro broke off a huge gain.
Adams didn’t find the end zone at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday night, but he has recorded 10 receptions for 120 yards since Pierce took over — and he’s been targeted a whopping 20 times by O’Connell. Pierce told reporters that this is absolutely intentional
“I’m not stupid,” he said on Sunday. “I know who to get the ball to.”
Smash-mouth football — and a victory
When he was appointed as the interim head coach, Pierce made it clear that he was going to build around players like Adams and All-Pro running back Josh Jacobs on offense. Jacobs was the NFL‘s rushing champion in 2022 but had looked like a shell of himself this season…until McDaniels was fired.
Jacobs on Sunday recorded 27 carries for a season-high 116 yards — the week after he carried the ball 26 times for 98 yards and two scores against the New York Giants. The emphasis on “smash-mouth football” has produced two wins for Las Vegas — and two celebrations complete with victory cigars.
The Raiders will look to keep it going next Sunday with a big test on the road. In Week 11, Las Vegas will head for Miami and take on the explosive — and rested — Dolphins, who are seeking to regain control of the AFC East.
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