The Las Vegas Raiders are building momentum in 2020 behind an offense that’s clicking on all cylinders.
There is no doubt that the Silver and Black still have some major concerns, with their defense being the primary one. They still need help with their pass rush and have to address the safety position in the offseason. Nevertheless, the Raiders are coming together under the leadership of head coach Jon Gruden and general manager Mike Mayock. Although fans won’t agree that every move has been a successful one, the team currently sits at 4-3. This upcoming stretch of three games against the AFC West will be another litmus test.
Fans aren’t the only ones who have noticed the improvements, the Raiders are trending up in many power rankings that cover the NFL. We don’t want to get ahead of ourselves and start talking playoffs, it is far too early for that. At the same time, the fact that the team is as high as number 12 in some lists is a good indicator.
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Where Do The Raiders Rank For CBS, ESPN, and Pro Football Focus?
Many people, including fans, like to dismiss fans but for a team looking to regain relevance, the fact they’re trending upwards is good. Pro Football Focus currently ranks the Raiders at number 16. In addition, they give them a 44% chance of making the playoffs. As a side note, PFF also ranks wide receiver, Hunter Renfrow, as their highest-graded player at 76.5.
ESPN had the team move up from 16th to 14th this week and believe quarterback Derek Carr is the biggest reason for optimism. As the season goes on, it does seem this squad will go as far as ‘4’ can take them. Finally, CBS Sports ranks the Silver and Black 12th at this point, moving up five slots. They cite that the improved defense on Sunday was a ‘good look’ but as Raider Nation knows, looks can be deceiving. Against the Los Chargers, we’ll see how for real the Raiders defense really is.
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*Top Photo: Jamie Sabau/Getty Images