Raiders DC Patrick Graham: Observations From Week 7

Las Vegas Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham had plenty to say after the Raiders’ recent victory over the Houston Texans.

Las Vegas Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham had plenty to say in his most recent press conference. In particular, he spoke about how his secondary performed in the absence of its best defender, Nate Hobbs. Graham also spoke about the inability to stop the Houston Texans on third down throughout Sunday’s game.

Additionally, the Raiders’ defensive coordinator also touched on Clelin Ferrell, Neil Farrell’s future, and what’s going on with sophomore safety Trevon Moehrig.

Raiders DC Patrick Graham: 3 Observations From Week 7

The Las Vegas Raiders are desperately missing Nate Hobbs

Raider Nation drew a collective sigh when the news broke that Hobbs had played with broken bones in his hand against the Kansas City Chiefs. Looking back, it was obvious that something was wrong. Hobbs is a physical cornerback that punishes you at the line of scrimmage.

Playing with such an ailment greatly impacts his play. However, his absence has clearly affected the Raiders’ secondary. For most of a rough first half and parts of the third quarter, Texans quarterback Davis Mills picked apart the secondary backfield.

"“Well, the guys came together and fought to compete to win the game last week. And I believe, like I said before, it’s always next man up in this league, and they came out there and fought, and thankfully we got the win, and I know they are back at it now just trying to improve, but they were competitive on some throws. They challenged us. They’ve got a good receiver core with Houston. So, I was pleased with what they did,” said Graham during his weekly presser yesterday."

He’s absolutely correct; it’s next man up. In Graham’s defense, the defense didn’t allow any of the Texans’ receivers to reach the century mark, so there’s that.