Vegas Nation - Raiders Football · Las Vegas Review-Journal

FIRST AND 10 PODCAST: Raiders path to success in Kansas City

·19 min·1 clip

Raiders quarterback Geno Smith insists there's no panic despite a 2-4 start, drawing on last year's playoff near-miss.

This episode analyzes the Las Vegas Raiders' upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs and their mindset at a 2-4 record. Host Vinny Bonsignore, a Raiders beat reporter, is joined by columnist Ed Graney. They open with a clip of quarterback Geno Smith urging patience, citing his previous team's rebound from 4-5 to 10 wins last season. Smith argues the team is focused on its development process with many young players. The hosts note the Raiders feel they are a "whisker away" from a 3-3 record, referencing a blocked field goal. A victory would tie their record with the Chiefs at 3-4 heading into the Raiders' bye week. Ed Graney states quarterback Geno Smith must "wear the Superman's cape" for a win, as the offense must score to match Kansas City's production. The Chiefs have scored 30 or more points in three of their last four games. Patrick Mahomes is currently leading the Chiefs in rushing, adding a dynamic threat. The Raiders' defense had six sacks in their previous game, though that was against the Tennessee Titans. Smith must avoid multiple interceptions, a problem in prior games, especially in the hostile Kansas City environment. Running the ball effectively to control the clock and keep Mahomes off the field is deemed critical. Injury updates reveal receiver Jakobi Meyers missed a second straight practice with toe and knee issues. Tight end Brock Bowers was also absent, and Graney advocates sitting him through the bye week to ensure full health. Rookie running back Ashton Gentry's potential breakout is highlighted, given his history in big college games. Gentry had 23 carries for 75 yards the previous week, and the offensive line must create better holes for him. Rookie receivers Tre Tucker and DJ Turner have posted minimal stats, and one or both must step up if Meyers is unavailable. The tone is analytical and conversational, blending insider injury reports with strategic football discussion. This episode is ideal for dedicated Raiders fans seeking a detailed preview of a crucial divisional matchup. Listeners wanting league-wide analysis or entertainment-focused content might find it too team-specific.

As heard by us

A grounded Raiders checkup that keeps the focus on Geno Smith, Kansas City, and the latest practice updates.

The discussion keeps the Raiders-Chiefs matchup grounded in football reality. Vinny Bonsignore and Ed Groening keep circling back to Geno Smith's call for patience, development, and process, while also making the case that Kansas City can drag a game into a score-for-score…

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Why you'd press play

You want a sane read on the Raiders' Kansas City test.

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