The Las Vegas Raiders learned from mistakes by chasing a big-name head coach (Josh McDaniels) over the interim Rich Bisaccia, who led the team to a 7-5 record in 2021. This time around, they did not put their hand on the hot stove. They hired interim coach Antonio Pierce and made him the full-time HC.
Pierce led the Raiders to a 5-4 record after taking over the interim job. The Raiders took on a more physical mindset under Pierce's leadership. It was easy to spot during games and on film. This team wanted to punch you in the mouth and test your response.
They embodied their fearless leader who was a physical player for the New York Giants helping lead their defense to becoming champions. This type of pedigree does not grow on trees. One of the biggest improvements in Pierce's physical approach was seen in the run game. Starting Josh Jacobs had a slow start to the season under McDaniels.
In his first eight games, he averaged a measly 51 rushing yards on 17 carries per game. For context, this is a little over five first downs per game. The tides turned when Pierce took over and Jacobs got his mojo back. Over his last five games of the season, he averaged 79.4 rush yards on 20 carries per game.
Raiders hiring Cadillac Williams is a good sign for run game
Jacobs saw his season improve with a coach who prioritized the run game and being physical. Hiring former Auburn great and Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams as the RB coach means this running game will not go away.
Williams has been in Pierce's shoes before as he was the interim HC for Auburn in 2022. Speaking with former coaches on staff, I was told that Williams immediately earned the trust and buy-in from the players. The productivity of the run game improved and there was an easy to identify spark that was missing before he took over.
This hire will impact the locker room as Williams is a great leader. Whether the team were to bring Jacobs back on a team-friendly deal or hand the reigns over to Zamir White, regardless I expect this rushing attack to be physical. Between Williams and Pierce, this offense will not be a walk in the park on vacation, that is for sure. Strap up your helmet and be ready for a battle.
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