Oakland Raiders no longer same old losing franchise

May 19, 2015; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders coach Jack Del Rio at organized team activities at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Jack Del Rio

Starting at the top, head coach Jack Del Rio is a huge upgrade over former head coach Dennis Allen. Allen didn’t have the credibility the former linebacker and his staff, full of former players have. If you look at Del Rio’s career, he’s always made a huge impact on his new defenses right away.

Back in 2002, the Jacksonville Jaguars defense was ranked No. 25 against the run and No. 20 overall. Then he became head coach and led them to No. 2 against the run and No. 6 overall in 2003. The Denver Broncos defense was ranked No. 22 against the run and No. 20 overall back in 2011.

Then Del Rio became defensive coordinator to lead the Broncos to No. 3 against the run and No. 2 overall in 2012. He’s already pressing the right buttons with the Raiders by making Mack his primary pass-rusher. He also has his corners in press coverage now and above all else, he’s rebuilt the middle of his defense. Del Rio might not be one of the most accomplished head coaches, but is hire is undoubtedly one of the upgrades that will make this Raiders team different going forward.

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