The Las Vegas Raiders entered Week 9 in search of an identity.
After firing their head coach and GM, the Raiders seemed lost and in need of major changes.
Enter interim head coach, Antonio Pierce.
The Raiders looked full of life in this blowout victory over the New York Giants mainly due to Pierce’s mentality.
When asked about his aggressive play calling, especially in the first half, Pierce said, “That’s our mindset,” according to Vic Tafur.
Pierce on the aggressive play-calling late in first half. “That’s our mindset. Hit that deep one to Tre. He can run-run and he was run-running on that one.”
— Vic Tafur (@VicTafur) November 6, 2023
Pierce might not be the head coach that the Raiders are eying for the 2024 season and beyond, but it appears that he’s trying to make his mark on the team.
24 points in the first half were more than the Raiders had scored in any game leading up to that point.
Pierce’s aggressive play-calling seemed to pay massive dividends, at least in this game against the Giants.
It remains to be seen how this will work against a more staunch defense, especially if rookie Aidan O’Connell remains at the helm under center.
The Raiders’ next three games are against the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, and Kansas City Chiefs.
All three of these defenses are among the best in the AFC and will be a true test for Pierce and his style of coaching.
If the Raiders can keep it close in these games, even coming away with an unlikely victory, it could go a long way in multiple respects.
The Raiders could greatly help their chances to do well on the season, and Pierce could show the organization he’s worth a look as their longtime head coach.
NEXT: The Raiders Had A Notable Start To The Antonio Pierce Era
