Unfortunately, despite coming out of the bye week, it was more of the same for the Las Vegas Raiders against the Miami Dolphins on the road. Still, let’s recap a few notable performances.
Antonio Pierce’s band of marauders continued the second half of the season in Florida on Sunday. Although there was an extra week to prepare, the results were virtually the same. It was one of the closest games of the year, but the team still trailed by multiple possessions. Raiders now sit with a top-five draft pick after another week of losing.
This game featured a new playcaller with Scott Turner commanding. Defensively, this was one of the worst games of the season, as the Dolphins scored on every possession. Penalties continuously haunt the Raiders and come in at horrific times. Despite the team failing to win, there were a few players who shined in this matchup.
Brock Bowers All-Pro Campaign
Entering this matchup, we all knew that the primary offensive focus needed to be Brock Bowers. Whatever it took, you needed to get him the ball. Despite the team suffering another loss, Bowers emerged with a historic performance.
Whether this is catches among rookies or tight ends, Bowers is in a class of his own. Before this game, he had contributed 57 receptions and 580 yards. In Miami, he achieved season highs by posting 13 receptions for 124 yards, along with a touchdown. These are the best numbers by a rookie tight end in league history.
No. 89 was by far the main focal point of this offense and exhibited outstanding abilities. He was able to exploit zones with intelligence and create separation in man coverage. His touchdown came as a result of his ability to break through arm tackles.
UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones last night.
Raiders tight end Brock Bowers today.
Trump is dominating culture.
pic.twitter.com/ZLGplwHEVI— johnny maga (@_johnnymaga) November 17, 2024
Jack Jones “Tackled” Business Decisions
Earlier in the season, Jones’s lack of willingness to tackle led to his benching. Often a flat route would lead to excessive yards because of the lack of aggressiveness. However, against Miami, this seemed to drastically change. Jones consistently made his presence known by appearing in the flats and in the running game.
At times, he struggled with man coverage, allowing a crucial first down. Though not as productive as some hoped, he is improving. A late tackle in the second half injured Jones, but hopefully he can return. The Raiders are dangerously thin at cornerback, and losing Jones for an extended period could be disastrous.
Jack Jones, who got hurt in the fourth quarter, heading back to the ?@Raiders locker room. pic.twitter.com/FYrTGIi2BL
— Vincent Bonsignore (@VinnyBonsignore) November 17, 2024
Raiders Found a Gem in Adam Butler
Adam Butler to the QB #LVvsMIA pic.twitter.com/vFqs1E73Ra
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) November 17, 2024
Butler has been one of the few bright spots on this team. From training camp, it was apparent that he would be a mandatory starter. He has created an impact on every game this season in a multitude of ways. This includes tackles for loss, pressures, and sacks. Butler’s presence is a formidable force every Sunday.
In this matchup against his former team, he showed up again. He finished with two tackles for loss, a sack, and a quarterback hit. He continues to impress every week.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
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