Overview
- In Week 1 the Raiders generated pressure and takeaways but allowed five completions of 25+ yards, 95 yards after the catch and four missed tackles that produced the explosive gains opponents used to score.
- Las Vegas’ pass rush and creative coverages under new defensive coordinator Rob Leonard helped force six pass breakups, an interception by Treydan Stukes and a forced fumble by Jeremy Chinn, showing the unit can create game-changing plays.
- Coaches and players say the primary fix is cleaner communication and alignment in the safety and corner spots so defenders stop getting out of position or biting on play action and screens.
- A possible absence by Darien Porter would insert rookie Zeke Masses and add youth to the back end, increasing concern that inexperience could magnify coverage errors against a precise quarterback.
- The upcoming game against Justin Herbert is sharper test because Herbert’s accuracy and weaponry historically exploit coverage mistakes, so the Raiders’ ability to connect Leonard’s pressure packages with assignment-sound coverage will likely determine the result.