Las Vegas Raiders defense answered some questions in 2021 Week 1

Las Vegas Raiders defense answered some questions in 2021 Week 1

Would Gus Bradley make a difference?

Let’s start by talking about the most important part of this revamped Las Vegas defense; the new defensive coordinator, Gus Bradley. Bradley was one of the lead architects of the Seattle Seahawks legendary Legion of Boom, and he then went on to build talented defensive for the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Los Angeles Chargers.

So, when it was announced that he would be Las Vegas’ new DC, hopes were high.

So far, Bradley has done a good job with the defense. He really simplified the scheme for his players, who were used to playing in an overly complicated, Paul Guenther system. Now, they seem to have a much easier time playing to their assignments. The defense also flies to the ball almost immediately.

Even with Lamar Jackson shaking off a few tackles, the defense did a good job of getting to him before he could find a ton of open space.

Not only is the defense improved by Bradley’s scheme, but it is also energized by his mentality. Guenther also seemed to be a bit of a “Debbie Downer” and tended to pass the blame away from himself. Bradley, on the other hand, has high energy, loves his players, and loves the game of football.

And the players, so far, have really seemed to respond well to that. After all, it’s important to want and enjoy playing for your coach and not doing just because you have to.