Vegas Nation - Raiders Football · Las Vegas Review-Journal

FIRST AND 10 PODCAST: A Pivotal Game Ahead for the Raiders

·26 min·2 clips

Pete Carroll's subtle hint to run the ball more could be the key to fixing Geno Smith's alarming turnover rate.

This episode analyzes the Las Vegas Raiders' offensive struggles and key roster decisions ahead of their game against the Tennessee Titans. Hosts Vinny Bonsignore and Adam Hill, Raiders beat reporters for the Las Vegas Review-Journal, dissect comments from head coach Pete Carroll. Carroll emphasized the need to improve the running game to support quarterback Geno Smith, who is struggling with turnovers. The hosts interpret Carroll's remarks as a subtle message to offensive coordinator Chip Kelly to call more run plays. They cite rookie running back Ashton Gentry leading the league in explosive runs of 10+ yards as a reason to feed him the ball. A specific second-and-goal play from the three-yard line against the Colts is highlighted, where a pass call resulted in a sack instead of a potential touchdown to tight end Ian Thomas. Smith's confidence is questioned, with comparisons made to quarterback Sam Darnold's past comments about "seeing ghosts" on the field. The discussion suggests Smith's high turnover rate is affecting his field vision and the coaching staff's play-calling trust. They debate whether Smith is in a temporary rut or if his performance indicates a more permanent decline. Rookie wide receiver Jack Fash is noted for increased playing time and a poised demeanor, while fellow rookie Dante Thornton's deep-shot connections with Smith remain a work in progress. Injuries to punter AJ Cole and tight end Brock Bowers are updated, with Bowers' status described as uncertain. Special teams issues are scrutinized, particularly a blocked punt attributed to backup Ian Thomas filling in for the concussed Michael Mayer. The hosts note Carroll's desire to use more defensive players on coverage units. They preview a potential starting cornerback matchup, predicting rookie Darian Porter will see targets if he plays opposite Eric Stokes. The tone is analytical and conversational, blending film breakdown with insider locker room perspectives. This episode is ideal for Raiders fans seeking a detailed Xs-and-Os breakdown of the team's current challenges. Listeners looking for broader NFL league-wide analysis might find it too narrowly focused.

As heard by us

A blunt Raiders check in on run game balance, Geno Smith learning Chip Kelly's offense, and the pressure to be cleaner up front.

This Raiders check in keeps circling back to one plain issue: the offense cannot ask the quarterback to carry everything. Pete Carroll wants a steadier run game, more play action, and better mixing up front, and that gives the piece its shape.

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Why you'd press play

You want this Raiders game framed as a real test, not a pep talk.

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