In a recent press conference, Las Vegas Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels said Derek Carr’s attempts to learn the new regime’s system are impressive due to his previous adjustments. According to a team transcript, McDaniels said, “I’m going to try to master the things that are important to him… I have no qualms with what he’s attempted to do in terms of trying to learn it and understand it, and I think he’s at a pretty high level right now.”
Since Carr was drafted by the Raiders in 2014, he has had four head coaches and two interim coaches. To put it into a bit of perspective, Carr was learning a new system every time the head coach changed, so he is now on his sixth coach in eight years. No matter what sport people play, this is very tough for someone to adapt to, especially if you are seen as one of, if not the face of, the franchise.
Are Josh McDaniels and Derek Carr on the same page at this point?
This is the type of relationship that teams want to see in a quarterback and head coach. Mostly because it shows the respect and understanding they have for one another. The Raiders are currently 5-8 for the season; needless to say, it’s been a disappointing campaign. There does appear to be some good news, though. McDaniels is looking to possibly get Hunter Renfrow and Darren Waller back this week. They’ve been designated to return from injured reserve, according to the team’s website. As most fans are aware, the duo has been a major part of Carr’s arsenal in the past. Though you could also argue he’s been doing just fine without them. Davante Adams and Mack Hollins have made a nice receiver tandem for Carr.
What do the numbers say?
As far as performing in McDaniels’ system, Carr is doing well. According to Pro Football Reference, Carr currently has a 62 percent completion rate on the year. Scoring wise, he’s thrown for a total of 20 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions. All things considered, that’s not bad for his first season under McDaniels.
“Honestly, I don’t think Derek really made a big deal out of it because I think for him it was just, ‘Hey, this is the process. I’m going to learn it.’,” said McDaniels in the same transcript. Ever since Carr’s emotional postgame presser in Week 10, he has had a bit of a pep in his step. He hasn’t been mistake-free, but overall, it lit a fire under him. Although he isn’t a mobile quarterback, fans have seen him scramble and run to attempt to gain yards in the last few games.
The New England Patriots and the Raiders are heading into Sunday under difficult circumstances. The Patriots are coming off of a 27-13 win, and the Raiders are coming off of a shocking 16-17 loss. Honestly, fans will have to wait and see if the Silver and Black can pull it together and come out with a win. Luckily, the team will be well rested and have the home advantage in this upcoming matchup.
*Top Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images