Rumors about the Las Vegas Raiders trying to land Tom Brady were rampant in the offseason. In the end, it all turned out to be smoke. If the team were to face him in Week 1 though, it would generate several headlines.
An opening week matchup between the Raiders against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would be interesting for several reasons. If the NFL wants to have football start off with a bang in Las Vegas, a primetime matchup between the Silver and Black and the league’s “golden boy” would be a good way to do it. A matchup against the Buccaneers would rehash and bring some of that speculation back.
Related: Can WR Henry Ruggs III Revolutionize the Raiders Offense?
NFL fans won’t have to wait too long to see how the league will start the season as the schedules are set to be released on Thursday. As far as the Raiders are concerned, facing Brady early would be a litmus test for their young defense. The Silver and Black secondary is very young, Trayvon Mullen, Damon Arnette, Johnathan Abram, and Amik Robertson would have their hands full. By the same token, it will be exciting for fans to see if quarterback Derek Carr can effectively utilize his new offensive arsenal headlined by wide receiver Henry Ruggs III.
Brady Vs. Carr
There have been numerous reports on what happened between the Raiders and Brady this past offseason, but in the end, nothing happened. Carr is still the starter in Las Vegas and Brady found a new home in Florida. The individual matchup itself will have repercussions. If Carr loses, questions regarding his status as the starting quarterback for the Raiders will emerge. While the game would serve well in the ratings department, a loss to Brady might only serve as fuel for Carr’s apparent hot seat depending on which fans you talk to.
You May Also Like: What Can WR Bryan Edwards Do for the Raiders?
[pickup_prop id=”21986″]
*Top Photo: Eduardo Verdugo/Associated Press
