Second-year Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Isaiah Pola-Mao has had a rollercoaster start to his NFL career, but he's finally beginning to find some security through the help of a veteran defensive backs room.
Pola-Mao, who has missed just one game so far this season, had a breakout performance a few weeks ago in the Raiders' loss to the Miami Dolphins when the young safety totaled seven combined tackles, a pass defensed and an interception.
Pola-Mao's steady climb as a pro this season has been due in large part to his willingness to learn from his fellow defensive backs, particularly the veterans.
Raiders defensive backs coach Chris Ash credits Smith's ability to make the most of his opportunities when given the chance.
"He's really trying to become a pro," Ash said in a media scrum last Monday, Nov. 27. "He's watching guys like Marcus Epps study and practice. Tre'von's [Moehrig] done a really nice job trying to mentor him as well.
"And I think he's really kind of getting into his own rhythm and groove about how he has to take care of his body, how he's prepared, the mental reps he has to take at practice. And whenever his opportunity is given, he's got to take advantage of it. And I think that's what you've seen from him, especially in the Miami game.
"He was thrust out there. Not getting a lot of reps at practice, it's just what it is at this time of year. But he took advantage of the mental reps and the opportunities he had, and he went out there and played a really good game against Miami.
"And he just continues to try to improve every week."
So far this season, Pola-Mao has tallied 14 combined tackles, an interception and a pass defensed. He totaled 20 combined tackles, two for losses and a sack in 11 games last season.
The Silver and Black will return home to Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas to take on the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, December 10, at 4:05 p.m. EST/1:05 p.m. PST.
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