The Las Vegas Raiders have been playing at a high level since interim head coach Antonio Pierce took over.
Both offensively and defensively, the Raiders have unlocked new levels of play that have better positioned them in the AFC playoff race.
Now, those new levels of play will be tested as they travel to Hard Rock Stadium to take on the Miami Dolphins, who have been one of the best teams in the NFL this season.
The Dolphins have won games because of their explosive offense, but their defense can also get the job done. Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio has several pieces that teams must respect.
One of those players is safety Jevon Holland, who has emerged as one of the best players in the league at his position in his third season. Holland was a second-round selection in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Oregon.
Holland is currently Pro Football Focus’ top-ranked safety in the NFL and is the highest-graded player on the Dolphins’ defense at 90.0. He has been elite in coverage this season and has three pass breakups.
In 2023, Holland posted 60 total tackles, two tackles for loss and three forced fumbles. For his career, he has posted 225 total tackles, six tackles for loss, eight quarterback hits, four sacks, four forced fumbles, 20 passes defended, and four interceptions.
Holland’s versatility is what makes him such a talented player in the secondary. He can line up at strong and free safety, and Fangio even sends him on blitzes. He can also line up in the slot and be effective there.
Holland has an elite football IQ and does not make many mistakes. It is rare when a safety can operate as a de facto middle linebacker, but Holland possesses that ability, which adds a dynamic element to the Dolphins’ defense.
The Raiders’ offense has improved with quarterback Aidan O’Connell under center, but O’Connell will now have to be mindful of where No. 8 is on the field at all times.
The different looks Fangio can throw at him involving Holland will make Sunday tough for O’Connell and the Raiders’ offense, so they will have to be ready.
The Silver and Black will head on the road to South Beach to take on the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, November 19, at 1 p.m. EST/10 a.m. PST.
More must-reads: