The Las Vegas Raiders are back in the spotlight after their stunning 63–21 victory against the Chargers on December 15. They wiped away the bitter taste of their previous loss. Meanwhile, Interim coach Antonio Pierce is not just turning heads, but he’s making a very strong case to be the permanent leader in Las Vegas.
The Interim Head Coach of the Raiders
The linebackers coach of the Las Vegas Raiders has given great guidance to the team, and the players there have undergone a remarkable transformation. The team is now boasting a rugged defense and a powerful, run-heavy offense. Star players like Davante Adams are rallying behind Pierce, and the rookie class is stepping up. The Raiders are out there in the mix, and Pierce has looked for wisdom from NFL veterans like Tom Coughlin, Marvin Lewis, and Adam Gase. Now, Mark Davis may just need to let Pierce build on his momentum.
Meanwhile, the Chargers are in search of a new head coach after parting ways with Brandon Staley. The big question is if they will be able to swing for the fences and consider the legendary Bill Belichick, who will potentially be available at the end of the season. The Chargers can also explore other options and look at experienced people like Jim Harbaugh and Dan Quinn. The team needs stability and success, so a thorough coaching search seems to be on the horizon for them.
Other Teams Are Also Searching
The Raiders and the Chargers have it good compared to the Steelers, who are standing by their Super Bowl-winning coach, Mike Tomlin. He has a legacy of 16 consecutive non-losing seasons, and the organization naturally values Tomlin’s leadership. So far, the offense has struggled, but it seems that retaining Tomlin is the right move.
In the AFC East, the Bills are making a late-season surge, winning crucial matchups against the Chiefs and Cowboys. They’re eyeing the division title that is held by the Dolphins. So, if Miami falters in the next two weeks and the Bills secure victories against the Chargers and Patriots, there may be a Week 18 showdown to determine the division winner.
How Other Teams Are Doing
In the NFC South, the Buccaneers are on a three-game winning streak. They are on their way to claim the division crown. Despite some earlier predictions favoring the Falcons or Saints, Tampa Bay, with their Derek Carr, is excelling on both sides of the ball.
Meanwhile, Baker Mayfield is the one who is making the strongest case for Comeback Player of the Year. It sure will be an action-packed show for people who watch the season unfold.