Bucky’s Breakdown: Takeaways from the Raiders’ Week 5 Loss

Bucky Brooks analyses the Raiders’ performance in their 34-18 loss to the Denver Broncos on Sunday.

BIG IMPRESSION.

The Raiders squandered a chance to win a critical division game by blowing an early lead that could have grown to 14 points if Gardner Minshew had not thrown a 100-yard pick-six that changed the game’s direction. The Raiders were unable to recover control of the game as the offence provided the Broncos with short fields and easy scoring opportunities, as well as a couple costly turnovers and three-and-out situations.

Keys to Victory

The Raiders could not maintain a strong start to defeat a division foe on the road. After leaping out to a 10-3 advantage, the Silver and Black couldn’t recover from a pick-six that drew the game and shifted momentum. While the offence continued to make expensive mistakes, the defence did not respond with the “sudden change” intensity that Pierce would have expected from a playoff-caliber squad. The Raiders couldn’t regain momentum or take control of the game unless they snuffed out those touchdown chances.

MINSHEW MANIA.

The veteran got off to a strong start, completing his first nine passes to help the Raiders jump out to a 10-3 lead with a chance to extend it to 17-3 before his pick-six. Minshew overthrew Brock Bowers in the end zone, resulting in a 100-yard interception return by Broncos’ Patrick Surtain. After the sixth-year pro threw another interception to Riley Moss, Antonio Pierce substituted Aidan O’Connell to end the game. Though Minshew finished the game on the bench, his hot start may allow him to continue as the starter after the coaches examine the footage.

UNSUNG HERO.

Brock Bowers is excelling as the Raiders’ primary passing option in Davante Adams’ absence. The rookie frequently gets open against any coverage, displaying exceptional instincts, awareness, and athleticism while finding space downfield. Bowers was the highlight of the Raiders’ aerial attack, finishing with eight catches, 97 yards, and a touchdown.

Offensively speaking

The offence stalled after a promising start owing to a series of miscues and gaffes that resulted in turnovers and poorly executed plays on critical downs. Although Minshew’s errors placed the team in a bind, O’Connell added to the giveaway with an interception on his second series. The quarterbacks combined for three fumbles and three sacks, putting them in a difficult position from which they never recovered.

Defensively speaking

Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham is undoubtedly displeased with his unit’s response after failing to stop the Broncos. Despite being charged with defending short fields, the defense’s inability to win “sudden change” scenarios did not demonstrate the toughness and perseverance that Pierce and Graham preach on a regular basis. Maxx Crosby attempted to fuel the unit with two sacks, but his efforts were unable to help the defence hold up when the team needed it.