Las Vegas Raiders X-Factors against the Denver Broncos in Week 16
By Alex Perl
Las Vegas Raiders X-Factors against the Denver Broncos in Week 16
The creativity of Gus Bradley
The Raider defense has not been one of the best in football — but it has not been one of the worst either.
This is a significant improvement over a team that for years has routinely been on the bottom of all lists in defensive categories. With two Pro Bowlers on this defense and what should be a third in defensive end Yannick Ngakoue, the Raiders defense actually has some scary pieces on this roster.
Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley has done a fantastic job in his first season In charge, especially considering what his play-calling has looked like compared to last season’s abysmal defensive play-calling from former defensive coordinator Paul Guenther.
COVID-19 and injuries have been prevalent throughout this season, but the Raiders truly have a daunting task in dealing with both in this game. This mainly is for the secondary. With starting cornerback Trayvon Mullen out for the season due to injury, he has now been followed by starting safety Johnathan Abram who is now also out for the season.
And now cornerback Brandon Facyson who had been covering for Mullen has been placed on the COVID-19 reserve list, as well as safety Roderic Teamer, who was likely going to be the cover for Abram.
Bradley must figure out a way to mend this depleted secondary imminently, and although the Broncos passing attack will play second fiddle to the running game, Lock has a slew of talented receivers at his disposal. Bradley must figure out ways to use what he has in this one, which is a tall task considering the team has been depleted of not only starters but backups as well.
Keep an eye on how Bradley uses and rotates the small number of defensive backs he has in his stable, it should be interesting to see how Bradley uses what he has to cover the likes of receivers Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy, as well as tight end Noah Fant.