The Las Vegas Raiders are grappling with a challenging start to their 2025 NFL season, holding a disappointing 2-5 record. Their recent defeat against the Kansas City Chiefs, where they were routed 31-0, exemplified their struggles on both offense and defense.
Recent Performance and Stats
Throughout this season, the Raiders have encountered multiple issues affecting their gameplay. In their game against the Chiefs, they totaled only 95 yards and failed to reach the red zone. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes exploited the Raiders’ defense effectively, showcasing the disparity between the two teams.
- Record: 2-5
- Total yards against Chiefs: 95
- Recent games: Lost five of the last six
- Postseason chances: 3% according to ESPN Analytics
Coaching Challenges
Head coach Pete Carroll, who previously led the Seattle Seahawks to success, admitted he expected better results. His history of starting seasons 2-5 or worse includes records of 7-9 and 7-10 in 2011 and 2021, respectively.
- Carroll’s expectations were not met, given the team’s performance.
- Raiders hired Carroll to build a competitive program.
- Carroll aimed for immediate playoff contention.
Offensive Struggles
The Raiders’ offense, directed by coordinator Chip Kelly, has also been underwhelming. The team ranks near the bottom in several major offensive metrics:
- Points per game: 14.71 (31st)
- Total yards per game: 276.4 (28th)
- EPA: -46.13 (30th)
Injuries have hampered their performance, with key players like Brock Bowers and Maxx Crosby sidelined. Quarterback Geno Smith, who has the highest number of interceptions in the NFL at 10, has struggled to connect efficiently with his receivers.
Defensive Concerns
On the defensive side, while the Raiders have shown strength against the run, they have faced inconsistencies in the passing game. They rank 10th in yards per attempt allowed but struggle to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
- Sacks: 15 (tied for 14th)
- Pressures: 71 (23rd)
- Pressure rate: 26.5% (30th)
Coverage issues have emerged, particularly with younger players failing to perform consistently. The team has allowed a third-down conversion rate of 44.9%, contributing to their struggles.
Future Prospects
The Raiders face an uphill battle as they navigate through a tough schedule. With games against the Denver Broncos and the Dallas Cowboys coming up, optimism remains low despite internal belief in Carroll’s plan.
Historical data shows that 46 teams starting 2-5 have achieved a .500 record or better, the latest being the 2023 Green Bay Packers. Hoping for a turnaround, the Raiders continue to foster a strong team chemistry amid adversity.
In summary, the Las Vegas Raiders are at a crossroads. They must address their offensive inefficiencies and defensive lapses if they hope to salvage their season and rebuild towards future success.
