It was a tough loss, but while there’s no moral victory in the NFL, one can’t help but feel underwhelmed. The fact is, the Las Vegas Raiders defense played as close to a great game as you could, especially against a loaded offense. Regrettably, Bo Hardegree’s offense couldn’t keep up.
Aidan O’Connell, the Raiders’ touted rookie, continued to struggle while flashing for stretches at times. It was unfortunate considering that Maxx Crosby and Co. were far and away playing one of their best games of the year. Despite forcing turnovers, Hardegree’s play calling left points on the board.
Here’s the thing: if you were paying attention, O’Connell was the victim of inconsistent (sometimes bad) pass protection. When facing two stud cornerbacks, it’s imperative that you give your rookie enough time to allow for a play to develop. Again, O’Connell delivered at times; it just wasn’t enough. As far as the “conversative” approach, Raiders fans were likely livid with the play selection to close out the first half, especially when scoring points were within reach.
Interim coach Antonio Pierce, for his part, was protective of his offensive coordinator and rookie signal caller. While speaking with the media after the game, Pierce made it known that protecting O’Connell was the priority.
Pierce said he was trying to protect his quarterback by being conservative at end of first half. “Didn’t want anything negative to happen.”
— Vic Tafur (@VicTafur) November 19, 2023
A small but notable positive is that O’Connell is aware of his role—when the team loses, it’s on him; when they win, he can take credit as the quarterback. On Sunday, after such a heartbreaking loss, AOC4 conceded that he’s learning on the job.
For now, it’s onto the Kansas City Chiefs.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
AOC is not the long term answer. Let him start the rest of the year and than draft your future qb in round 1. AOC would be a good back up and he comes with a lot cheaper contract than Hoyer. Next years qb class is rich, so we should be able to get our future qb.
(By Tony Brucks)
If there is such a thing feeling good about a loss this game is it.
You guys kept pace with one of the best (if not the best) offense in the NFL.
YOU GUYS HAVE NOTHING TO FEEL BAD ABOUT…NOTHING.
I am sitting here damn proud of all you guys!
You guys gave ’em hell right down to the wire on their home turf. You were ONE PLAY away from a tie and one more for the win. LET THAT SINK IN.
Coach knows what we need to fix things along with the GM. Keep the faith and keep fighting because under the previous coach & GM this game would of been a a$$ kickin for us. You guys leave there with your heads high as you have nothing to be ashamed of here.
I agree with Tony Brucks above????
I also agree with Tony bricks it was a good game for the raiders