The Las Vegas Raiders have played the last two games without their starting left tackle, Kolton Miller.
Not having Miller has left the Raiders' offensive line leaning on their depth and their linemen's ability to play multiple positions.
Las Vegas did the best it could protecting rookie quarterback Aidan O'Connell in Miller's absence, allowing five combined sacks against two of the best defenses in the National Football League.
Although Miller has made progress, Interim Coach Antonio Pierce and the Raiders do not have an update on Miller, but are hoping to have him back on the practice field.
“No, we do not [have an update]," Pierce said. "Actually, guys are coming in today, but it’s their day off. Some guys have been in treatment. But Kolton was close last week, so I'm hoping we get our big boy back this week.”
Miller has been replaced by Jermaine Eluemunor for the last two weeks. Eluemunor explained the difficulty in playing at left tackle instead of his normal right tackle position.
"It's tough," Eluemunor said. "Not only do you have to get it physically, but mentally, you just have to get it, too. Whether it's switching the plays or switching your technique, which is even harder.
"Then you go through some mental blocks; you're trying one thing, and it doesn't work. Then you try another thing, and it starts to work, but doesn't work eventually. You just have to keep grinding and keep working."
Eluemunor and the rest of the offensive line were starting to play well as Miller went down with his shoulder injury. They look to get back on track this week, whether Miller returns or not.
O'Connell and the rest of the Raiders' offense have shown what they can do when their offensive line is playing well. Having Miller back will only help Las Vegas' offense play to its full capability.
Earlier in the season, the Raiders lost multiple games they could have won. With two games against the Kansas City Chiefs and two other games against AFC West teams remaining, the Raiders will have to win a few they're not in to win to make the best of what has been an interesting season.
The Silver and Black will return home next week to celebrate Thanksgiving and take on their AFC West rival, the Kansas City Chiefs, on Sunday, November. 26, at 4:25 p.m. EST/1:25 p.m. PST.
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