The Las Vegas Raiders faced significant offensive challenges during the 2024—25 season, with Antonio Pierce’s leadership highlighting these struggles. Under his guidance, the team grappled with a transition to a new offensive scheme, which proved difficult for players to master.
Understanding the Raiders’ Offensive Struggles in 2024
Low rankings and disappointing statistics characterized the Raiders’ offensive performance in 2024. The team struggled to find a rhythm, often failing to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Coaching and player performance played crucial roles in these shortcomings.
Key Issues: Red Zone Woes, Third Down Conversion Struggles, And Inconsistency
The Raiders ranked 29th in red zone offense, a clear indicator of their struggles to turn opportunities into touchdowns. This low ranking was largely due to a lack of schematic creativity.
When a team can’t convert red zone trips into seven points, it limits their success—that’s common sense. Coaching plays a significant role in optimizing team performance in this area and addressing any weakness, especially if the same errors creep in game after game. The lack of effective strategies under Pierce’s tenure was painfully evident.
Ranking 27th in third-down conversion rate, the Raiders had difficulty extending drives, a trend that directly impacted Las Vegas Raiders odds throughout the season. With Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell failing to execute in critical short-yardage situations, bettors grew wary of the team’s ability to cover spreads in low-scoring games.
Without offensive creativity—particularly in third-and-short situations—the Raiders struggled to sustain momentum on offense. This lack of innovation significantly hindered their ability to capitalize on opportunities. Without momentum, any team faces challenges in maximizing its potential, and the Raiders were no exception.
Las Vegas frequently faced three-and-outs, unable to maintain drive consistency. This was partly due to the turnover of offensive coordinators, but ultimately, the responsibility fell on the head coach. Consistent drive extension is crucial for any offense, and the Raiders’ inability to achieve this was a major weakness.
Additional Factors Contributing to Offensive Woes
Slow Starts and Inconsistent Performance
Coming out of the starting blocks quickly was a significant issue for the Raiders, with the team only scoring 10 points in the first quarters of their last five games. The team also struggled to maintain drives beyond the opening scene of the on-field drama, affecting overall performance. Consistency was lacking, both in gameplay and execution.
Quarterback performance was a major concern. Neither Gardner Minshew nor Aidan O’Connell delivered consistently under former offensive coordinator Luke Getsy.
The decision not to address quarterback needs in the offseason left the team without a clear long-term option, further complicating the situation.
Roster Challenges and Potential Solutions
Experts evaluated the Raiders’ roster as one of the worst in the NFL. Injuries and lack of depth exacerbated offensive struggles. A strong roster is essential for success, and the Raiders need significant improvements in this area (and that’s putting it mildly).
Despite the challenges, tight end Brock Bowers shined, securing the third-highest grade in the NFL. However, the team needs better talent on the perimeter and more consistent quarterback play to support Bowers and enhance overall performance.
Strategic Moves for Future Raiders Improvement
Addressing quarterback needs should be a top priority for the Raiders. Enhancing roster depth and talent on both offense and defense is crucial for future success. Building a strong foundation will be key to overcoming past struggles and building for the future.
The new general manager will play a vital role in rebuilding the team. Key tasks include finding a long-term quarterback solution, improving roster depth, and enhancing overall talent. Long-term strategies must focus on improving offensive performance and team competitiveness.
The Raiders’ offensive struggles in the 2024 season were marked by red zone challenges, third-down conversion issues, and inconsistent drive extensions.
Addressing these problems, alongside improving roster quality and quarterback performance, will be essential for future success. With strategic changes and improvements, there’s optimism for the seasons ahead.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
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