The Las Vegas Raiders kicked off their 2024 season with a 22-10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 1, a game that nothing has really changed from the previous season, particularly on the offensive side of the ball.
Despite a great showing from the defense, and particularly Maxx Crosby who made some huge plays, the Raiders' inability to sustain drives and score points continues to be a glaring concern.
Offensively, the Raiders struggled to find rhythm or consistency. Gardner Minshew, at quarterback, faced pressure throughout the game, resulting in four sacks and six quarterback hits, which significantly hampered the Raiders' offensive momentum. The offensive line's performance was underwhelming. The defense struggled to keep up their great work due to the bad situations they were put in by the offense.
Overall, the game was just extremely disappointing. And, Maxx Crosby after the game kept it real, not holding anything back.
“We just didn't play good enough, simple and plain," Crosby told reporters in the locker room. "It's about playing consistently for four quarters, and we didn't do that. It's game one, and we will see them again. We just have to be better, it’s not the end of the world. We weren’t detailed enough for four quarters.”
Despite the loss, there were bright spots for the Raiders. The defense, particularly linebacker Robert Spillane, showed moments of brilliance, with Spillane recording 10 tackles.
Wide receiver Davante Adams, though not at his prolific best, still managed to make plays, including a 26-yard reception, showcasing his ability to stretch the field. However, these individual performances were not enough to overcome the collective offensive shortcomings and strategic decisions that ultimately cost them the game.
The defense did give up the long-run play by J.K. Dobbins, but ultimately, they were put in bad positions all game long by the offense. Put it this way, if the offense scores and converts, the Raiders may not be in a situation where that happens. Crosby is going to take some of the blame. But really the offense and some coaching miscues by Antonio Pierce should shoulder the blame for this loss.
Now, it's about bouncing back and trying to get a win over a great Baltimore Ravens team.
