Las Vegas Raiders fans finally saw a home win at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday.
After dropping their first two home games, the Raiders broke through in Week 6—and not a moment too soon. It was easily the most important matchup of the season: win, and there’s still hope; lose, and the dominoes start to fall.
Fortunately for the Silver and Black, the opponent helped. Tennessee entered with one of the league’s weakest rosters, lacking offensive firepower and relying heavily on star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. Once the Titans fell behind, they had little chance to rally.
The Raiders took advantage, controlling the game and cruising to a 20-10 win that may have saved their season—at least for now.
Geno Smith threw only one interception…
The passing volume may have dipped, but protecting the football was a welcome change.
Veteran quarterback Geno Smith avoided interceptions for the first time in weeks, a key part of Las Vegas’ conservative but effective game plan. The focus shifted to getting rookie running back Ashton Jeanty more involved—and it paid off. Jeanty carried 23 times for 75 yards, including a four-yard touchdown run.
Smith, who entered the game leading the league in interceptions, showed progress by leaning on short and intermediate throws. That approach allowed the Raiders’ playmakers to create yards after the catch—a formula this offense can build on moving forward.
The defensive line harassed Cam Ward all game…
The best way to win in this league is to disrupt the quarterback. For much of the season, the Raiders have struggled to do that outside of Maxx Crosby.
But the investment finally paid off Sunday. Former first-round pick Tyree Wilson and a wave of offseason additions helped power a six-sack performance against Tennessee—the team’s most complete pass rush showing of the year.
That dominance has boosted Las Vegas into the upper tier of NFL defenses. Patrick Graham’s unit now ranks among the top 12 in total yards allowed per game and sits in the top 10 against the run—proof that this defense is no longer just about one star but a full-on unit finding its identity.
Special teams did not lose the Raiders another game…
Special teams matter just as much as offense and defense—and this week, the Raiders finally showed it.
Las Vegas has dropped multiple games this season because of breakdowns and lack of urgency in the third phase. But on Sunday, that unit delivered. No blocked field goals, no coverage lapses—just clean, disciplined execution.
Kick coverage was sharp from start to finish, exactly what the Raiders will need against a well-coached Kansas City Chiefs team.
If Las Vegas wants any chance to knock off the reigning AFC champions in Week 7, special teams must keep setting the tone—not playing catch-up.
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*Top Photo: Getty Images