Raiders’ Offensive Surge In Practice Raises Potential Concerns

The Las Vegas Raiders are in the process of knocking off the rust, easing their way back into game shape. Almost like hitting a warmup pre-18-hole bucket of balls, Geno Smith is settling into his form, getting on the same page with his receivers, and dialing in his arm. Of course, like some golfers have magically experienced, Smith appears to be ahead of schedule in his level of comfort with the offense.

It’s not just him. Aidan O’Connell is seemingly hitting his stride as well. Recently, Raiders media spotlighted that both quarterbacks, Brock Bowers, Tre Tucker, and Jack Bech, delivered many touchdowns in practice.

“Sunday morning was Geno Smith’s best camp practice, perfect timing too before pads come on Monday. During [the] team period, he was as precise as they come with the ball and seemingly excelled in every situational drill that came his way,” team reporter Levi Edwards wrote.

On Monday, the offense continued to display strength, even with rookie Cam Miller getting into the end zone. Ashton Jeanty also showed some flashes.

The general sentiment surrounding the Raiders’ offense is smiles, sunglasses, and good vibes.

Of course, while the offense hitting its stride quickly is encouraging, it does raise questions. Some questions are merely questions. Other implications could shake the Raiders to their core.

Las Vegas Raiders Offense Ascends, But What About The Defense?

The offense hitting such a high speed so soon raises questions. Is the offense truly as monumental as they’ve looked in practice, or are they facing a struggling defense? With Pete Carroll around, it might be hard to come to that conclusion, but the state of the secondary says otherwise.

The cornerback room is wide open in terms of choosing a starter, which isn’t the best sign for any lockdown defense. Sure, it’s early in the process for Carroll, but it might be slowly becoming clear that the defensive secondary will need a multi-year rebuild.

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Carroll was brought in to steady the ship and boost the defense. If the defense proves to be the issue over the long haul, it could raise questions about Carroll. That said, there could still be another two seasons before the Raiders are willing to entertain that thought for one of the architects of the Legion of Boom.

The Raiders drafted rookie cornerback Darien Porter as the first rookie cornerback of the Carroll era. How he fares could be the best early indication of the effect that Carroll is having on the defense. If Porter, who logged three interceptions in his final college season, struggles, it could reflect on Carroll. However, if the third-round pick ascends, excitement about Carroll could hit new highs.

Will Carroll resurrect the Legion of Boom in Black and Silver? Comment below!