The Las Vegas Raiders head into their game with the Denver Broncos sporting an 0-3 record. They’ve lost three close games to open the season, and desperation is starting to set in to avoid an 0-4 hole. Denver is 2-1 but just as easily could be 0-3 three as well. But while the Broncos have found ways to eke out wins, the Raiders have seemingly found new and more painful ways to lose each week.
Vegas held a players-only meeting to help the team refocus in the hopes they can turn the corner, and it starts this Sunday. Simply put, they have too much talent to be 0-3.
Get Davante Adams the Ball
When you’re struggling, a quick cure is to get your most talented player involved as much as possible. After signing him to be “the guy” in Vegas, it’s time for the Raiders to target Davante Adams early and often. Last week Adams had five catches for 37 yards and one touchdown. Granted, the former Packer sees a healthy dose of double teams and bracket coverage, but sometimes you need to force the ball to him because he can make a play.
Carr should pick and choose his spots to get the ball to Adams even when tightly covered. Good things will happen if Adams has the ball in his hands.
Pressure Russell Wilson
The Raiders have two sacks on the season, and both are by Maxx Crosby. Las Vegas needs veteran pass rusher Chandler Jones to step up and start playing better. They also need to start generating pressure from their defensive tackles as they’ve had virtually no impact so far this season. Pressure up the middle will help collapse the pocket and make life miserable for Wilson.
When Russell Wilson has time to pass, he’s a different quarterback. And with a banged-up secondary, a strong Raiders pass rush will be crucial on Sunday.
Put Together Four Full Quarters
The Raiders have yet to play consistent football for four quarters this season. While they’ve managed to play a good half here and there, they’ve ultimately failed to put together a full 60 minutes. Last week the defense gave up 24 points in the first half and no points in the second half. From here on, focus and attention to detail may be the most important aspects of Vegas’ season.
The same is equally true for both the defense and the offense. Carr & Co. need to start fast and keep their foot on the gas. Against the Arizona Cardinals, the Raiders led 20-0 at halftime, then laid an egg in the second, eventually losing 29-23 in overtime.
If the Raiders can do these three things, they could get their first win on the season. However, it will be a hard fought game as the Broncos have a good defense, meaning Vegas must play mistake-free football, and get a solid contribution from their O-line.
-LaMarr Fields
Twitter: @raiderway83