Las Vegas Raiders at New England Patriots: 3 things we learned

FOXBOROUGH, MA - SEPTEMBER 27: Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks to pass in the second half against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on September 27, 2020 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images)
FOXBOROUGH, MA - SEPTEMBER 27: Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks to pass in the second half against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on September 27, 2020 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) /
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Raiders struggled to convert on third down (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images)
Raiders struggled to convert on third down (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) /

Las Vegas Raiders at New England Patriots: 3 things we learned

Third down struggles

Heading into Week 3 the Raiders were converting on third down at a 59 percent rate, taking advantage of short third-down yard situations. On Sunday against New England, it was a different story, with Las Vegas continuously finding themselves in third-and-long situations. The result: the Raiders went 3-for-9 on third downs, struggling to move the chains and forcing the offense back to the sideline.

It’s a side effect of the Raiders being unable to execute on offense as the Patriots kept Las Vegas’ top threats in check for the game. Josh Jacobs managed 71 yards on 16 carries, while Darren Waller was kept to just two receptions for nine yards. It was no secret that New England would key in on Waller, but with Henry Ruggs out, it’s up to Jon Gruden to get creative with the playcalling to get his best weapon open.

Things do not get any easier next week when Las Vegas welcomes the undefeated Buffalo Bills to Allegiant Stadium, and while the health of the offense remains in question, one thing is for certain: the Raiders must execute on offense and get back to being efficient on third-down situations.