Looking into Raiders DC Patrick Graham’s experience vs Russell Wilson

Looking into Raiders DC Patrick Graham’s experience against Russell Wilson

Why was Graham so successful?

First and foremost, Graham is fantastic at adjusting his defense to the personnel given to him. Knowing how much Seattle likes to run the ball, especially against two high, he kept their best-run defenders on the field often. Coupled with a great blitzing and tackling safety like Jabrill Peppers and Wilson really had his hands full.

With players like Jonathan Hankins, Clelin Ferrell, and Johnathan Abram, Graham has players who fit these skillsets.

The alternative for the Seattle offense? Attack the middle of the field. This is something Wilson seldom does. Often choosing to attack the sidelines, Graham was content to give him the middle of the field. A difficult throw for any passer, it also forced Wilson outside of his comfort zone. Basically, Graham just allowed Wilson to beat himself.

Russell Wilson would finish that game 27/43 for 263 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Perhaps most notable are the five sacks registered by the Giants defense. Facing one of the most elusive passers in the league, Graham’s defense had Wilson rattled the entire game.

Don’t disregard what the Las Vegas Raiders have in Derek Carr

The Las Vegas Raiders have a strong quarterback of their own in Derek Carr, who could reach new heights under Josh McDaniels in 2022.

Now that the star quarterback is on the Broncos and the defensive genius is in Vegas we will get to see them do battle more often. While both are likely to get their fair share of victories, Raider Nation will just have to hope they are victorious more often than not.