We’ll keep this short and sweet: the Las Vegas Raiders decided not to show up this past Sunday in their division clash with the Kansas City Chiefs, en route to their largest loss in the history of the rivalry, 48-9. While it may seem like an impossible task, let’s find some silver linings to that “game” with Week 15 upon us.
Renfrow Continues To Improve
In the passing game, Hunter Renfrow has stepped up big time in the absence of a true number one option. With tight end Darren Waller missing action due to injury, quarterback Derek Carr has solidified his already exemplary connection with the Clemson product. Renfrow hauled in 13 catches for 117 yards and a score on Sunday, bringing his total over the last three games to 30 catches and 353 yards.
Once seen as a project that could only thrive in the slot at this level, Renfrow is showing he has what it takes to be a true threat on the outside.
Third Rounders Starting To Shine
Say what you will about how the Raiders utilize their first-round picks, Mike Mayock and company tend to make the most of their third round selections and later (like the aforementioned Renfrow). Sunday allowed third-round selections Divine Deablo and Malcolm Koonce to flash their potential. Koonce followed up his first career sack against the Washington Football Team the week before by taking down the elusive Patrick Mahomes.
Due to the injury-induced absence of Denzel Perryman, Deablo played a large number of snaps and didn’t disappoint, shooting gaps and showing off his speed all over the field. The defense as a whole may not have performed well, but the unit has the pieces to be a force in the near future.
The Raiders Don’t Play The Chiefs Again This Season
In 2020, it appeared the Raiders were becoming a possible foil for K.C., splitting their two matchups into entertaining and competitive tilts. 2021 was the exact opposite. The Chiefs outscored the Silver and Black 89-23 in their games this year, playing a defense tailor-made to give Patrick Mahomes the looks he needed to put up big numbers. Meanwhile, the offense constantly shot itself in the foot. If Sunday’s loss doesn’t light a fire under this roster to finish the season, nothing will.
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*Top Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images