Another week, another close call for the Las Vegas Raiders. They battled hard against a quality opponent but once again came up short. It’s a clear step forward from their pre-bye struggles—yet still a frustrating finish. This week’s performance was a mixed bag, so let’s dive into the overreactions.
AJ Cole is the greatest punter of all time…
Cole delivered one of the all-time great punting performances, keeping the Raiders competitive against Denver. He pinned the Broncos inside the 20 three times, including twice inside the two-yard line.
This dominance isn’t new—Cole has long been recognized as one of the league’s best. Raider Nation has seen legendary punters, from Ray Guy to Shane Lechler, but Cole may be in a class of his own. He’s tied for the all-time record in yards per punt and is on pace to set the record for punts inside the 20. History is unfolding on the field.
Yet despite Cole’s brilliance, special teams remain a weak spot for the Raiders, proving that even elite punting can’t carry the whole unit.
“Special Teams” is keeping the Raiders from contending…
For the third time this season, special teams blunders have cost the Raiders a close game. This week, a blocked punt handed the Broncos a field goal to take the lead, and a missed field goal kept Las Vegas from tying it up. Earlier losses to the Jaguars and Bears came courtesy of a missed extra point and a blocked field goal. Without these miscues, the Raiders would be 5-4 and squarely in the playoff hunt. Action has finally been taken: special teams coordinator Tom McMahon has been fired.
Still, while special teams struggles are glaring, they’re far from the only reason the Raiders are coming up short.
It is time for Aidan O’Connell…
It’s time to end the Geno Smith experiment. Even when he connects on passes, the ball takes an eternity to leave his hand. Smith simply doesn’t process the game fast enough anymore. The clearest proof came after his injury—the hobbled version looked no different from the healthy one, because his issues are mental, not physical.
Kenny Pickett’s brief appearance didn’t inspire confidence either. The offense became painfully basic, a clear sign the coaching staff doesn’t trust him.
That’s why Aidan O’Connell’s return couldn’t come at a better time. With 11 days between the Denver game and their Monday night matchup against the Cowboys, the Raiders have the perfect window to get O’Connell first-team reps—and finally put a quick-thinking, steady presence under center.
Related: Some Silver Linings For Las Vegas Despite The Losing
*Top Photo: Getty Images