The Las Vegas Raiders got back in the win column in Week 8, ending their dreaded four-game skid. They pulled off a close win against the New York Jets, escaping MetLife Stadium with a 38-33 edge. And the Raiders didn’t have an easy go on Sunday.
They allowed 7.2 yards per play on defense and couldn't stop the Jets in the first half. This is Las Vegas' fifth straight game allowing 30 points or more. If they do that again next week, they will set an NFL record for the most games in a row giving up 30 points or more.
Klint Kubiak and his offense came to play, though, and led the team to a victory. Kirk Cousins was efficient, and the running game showed up during the four-minute drill. They will need the defense to play better, but this is one of the best offenses in the league.
What do the advanced stats say this week? Let's deep dive into them for Week 8.
Las Vegas Raiders key advanced stats for Week 8 win over Jets
Raiders thrive in outside zone
When the Raiders made Kubiak their head coach, it was expected that they'd run a wide zone scheme. They built the offensive line to execute it, but they've stayed away from it for most of the season.
On Sunday, the coach went back to his roots with much success. The Raiders ran outside zone 36 percent of the time, more than any other running play. They were successful on 50 percent of those runs and averaged 5.3 yards per carry when running zone.
The offensive line's comfort running this type of scheme was evident last Sunday. And as a side note, fans should expect this to continue with Trey Zuhn III in the lineup at right guard.
Explosive plays hurt the defense, yet again
The Raiders' defense has been in shambles the past five weeks. The Jets game was no different, as the first half felt like a blowout was on the horizon. Las Vegas couldn't stop New York, which led to it having the most explosive game of the season.
All told, the Jets finished the game with 15 explosive plays, including both rushing and passing. The second-most for a team in a single game this year was 13, but the Raiders made sure to allow New York to have the most in 2026.
Rob Leonard needs to clean this up ASAP. With the San Francisco 49ers next up, it could get ugly quickly in Santa Clara if they don't fix it.
Las Vegas continues to thrive in 12 personnel
Michael Mayer and Brock Bowers have solidified themselves as the NFL's best tight end duo. Both rank in the top five in yards and receptions for tight ends. They have become the Raiders' primary passing threats and continue to produce at a high level.
When running 12 personnel, Cousins went 11-for-12 for 125 yards and two touchdowns through the air. They also ran for 31 yards on six carries, which is 5.17 yards per carry. This opens up the running game because teams believe they will pass in 12 personnel, with Bowers and Mayer as weapons.
It will be interesting to see how the team views the wide receiver position this offseason because of this. Mayer and Bowers will be around for the foreseeable future and should serve as the focal points of the offense.
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