Raiders' Defensive Backfield Showing Desired Growth

Originally posted on Las Vegas Raiders on SI
By Ezekiel Trezevant IV | Last updated Dec 13, 2023 12:00 PM ET

After the bye week, Interim Head Coach Antonio Pierce mentioned how he wanted to see growth from his young defensive backfield. Pierce also said a few players who had the chance to prove themselves in the future. Veteran defensive back Jack Jones is one of those players.

With whom Pierce has a long history, Jones has played well since joining the team.

"I thought, just being here for a couple of weeks, got in, [Jack Jones] learned the system, got in the playbook. Jason Simmons worked with him. Like I said, the second play of the game, great opportunity right there on [Justin] Jefferson."

"If it's a good ball, it's going the other way. Had some really physical tackles, thought he was active. I know there's a play or two he wants back, like we all do. But that's just good to see that whole group."

"Not just Jack, I thought Nate Hobbs showed up, Amik [Robertson]. I mean, those guys, they really were challenged. We changed some things up defensively scheme-wise with what we wanted to do with a new group of corners out there, and it showed up."

"Short week," Pierce said. "So, are they going to throw the whole playbook at him? No. What did he do in that second half? What did he do in the preseason? We'll go back and look at all his film, but more importantly, the scheme.

"Kellen Moore is going to stick to what they do well. Defensively, we're dealing with a very good group of players on that side of the ball. So, we're looking for a team effort from the [Los Angeles] Chargers. They're coming off a disappointing loss like us. Divisional game, neither team likes each other, it should be fun."

One game is a short sample size to prove growth. However, another good game, this time on a quick turnaround against a divisional opponent, would help bolster their case for improvement.

The last time the Raiders and Chargers played was a pivotal game in the Raiders' season. Their game against Los Angeles on Thursday night could be as well.

The Silver and Black will turn around quickly and host their AFC West rivals, the Los Angeles Chargers, on Thursday, December 14, at 8:15 p.m. EST/5:15 p.m. PST.

This article first appeared on Las Vegas Raiders on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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