Who cares who they played? The Las Vegas Raiders finally got back in the win column for the first time since the season opener. An ugly victory is still a victory. Just win, baby. Let’s overreact.
This defensive line might be elite…
After the departure of Christian Wilkins, it was believed that the Raiders’ hopes of having one of the best defensive lines in the league had vanished. However, this group appears to be performing better than ever. While the unit is still anchored by Maxx Crosby, one of the league’s top edge defenders, the impressive developments on the interior deserve special attention.
Las Vegas has a deep roster of players that they can rotate to disrupt opposing offenses. Adam Butler remains a dependable option, Tyree Wilson continues to improve each week, and the trade for Thomas Booker has proven to be beneficial. In addition to these three, the Raiders are also receiving significant contributions from lesser-known players like Jonah Laulu and Leki Fotu. This group may just provide enough reason for some cautious optimism among fans of the Silver and Black.
Let’s not blow it up yet…
After last week, it was fair to wonder if it was time for a hard reset. Had the Raiders lost this game, it may have been time to start seriously considering trading everyone. However, Las Vegas did not lose, and they actually looked like a real NFL team. The Raiders may not be playoff contenders, but they could be competitive.
Rather than “blowing it up” now, Las Vegas might as well at least try to compete while building toward something in the future. Some will say that is exactly the thing that will cause the Raiders to once again miss out on a franchise quarterback in the draft. Those folks should go ahead and watch the tape on this year’s quarterback prospects. There is nobody worth a high draft pick. These players have an equal chance of becoming busts or stars. The Raiders can win six or seven games, pick in the teens, and still be just as likely to draft a franchise quarterback as they would be picking in the top three.
Las Vegas would be better off establishing an identity and developing this roster. That includes giving a rookie offensive lineman a chance because…
Stone Forsythe is the worst Raiders offensive lineman EVER…
Good lord, is he bad. The man looks as though he has never played the position. Even against the group of nobodies the Titans sent out, Forsythe looked completely outmatched. Bandon Parker in his rookie season seemingly played as bad as one could. This is a lot worse. Parker at least made defenders go around him. Forsythe cannot even do that. His only move is a half-hearted punch while his feet look like they are stuck in cement. He cannot seal anyone off in the run and he is a turnstile in pass protection.
At this point, the Raiders should give rookie Charles Grant an opportunity to play. While he may require some development, gaining experience on the field could be beneficial. Moreover, he doesn’t need to do much to surpass Forsythe’s performance. Currently, the standard is set extremely low.
Related: Did We Get It Right In Week 5?
*Top Photo: Associated Press