The decision of whether to embrace tanking is a difficult one for Las Vegas Raiders fans right now, but the “voice” of the team doesn’t seem to think so.
The problem that faces the Silver and Black isn’t a new one by any means. Last season, as the team crumbled under then-head coach Josh McDaniels, it was obvious that the organization needed a shift. In order for that shift to take place, they’d need a franchise quarterback. Without a franchise quarterback, they would remain in a state of limbo—just looking at the rest of the AFC West, where the team faces three signal-callers who are superior to anything they are currently fielding.
How can Raiders fans support a loss?
Once Antonio Pierce took the reins after McDaniels’ exit, the team rallied and played themselves out of a top pick. The Raiders could have utilized that selection for Jayden Daniels, among other options. Well, the Raiders find themselves with a case of déjà vu once again. However, J.T. The Brick, the long-time Raiders radio host, isn’t having any of that. In fact, he’s taking time off from private messaging fans in the middle of the night and telling them what to do with their fandom. Instead, he is publicly informing Raider Nation that they require “therapy” if they believe a top pick next year will be beneficial.
We don’t control the draft or the selection of the pick Einstein. We live in the moment.
Sorry for the WIN, which is your loss.
Let me buy you a MODELO and give you therapy! https://t.co/Kg17tE9cdu— JT The Brick (@JTTheBrick) December 23, 2024
Something that fans need to keep in mind is that no organization, nor the players in it, or the coaches for that matter, will ever “want” to lose. There’s too much at stake. Players are playing for incentives and contract bonuses; coaches also understand that being associated with losing teams hurts their job prospects. In other words, tanking is for the fans. Still, Raiders fans are some of the most loyal that you’ll ever see. Despite 20-plus years of mediocrity, there they are, waiting for a glimmer of hope.
That latest glimmer likely being Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders. With the No. 1 overall pick now likely out of reach, that too has been snatched away (with a win over the Jaguars, no less). But hey, at least Raiders fans have their radio host to help guide them through all the misery.
Congrats on your prediction and your $5 futures bet. Buy me half of a vodka/soda with your winnings….
— JT The Brick (@JTTheBrick) December 23, 2024
*Top Photo: Las Vegas Sun