Last season’s performance was convincing enough for the Las Vegas Raiders to retain Antonio Pierce as their head coach, despite the Los Angeles Chargers aggressively recruiting Jim Harbaugh as their new leader.
Pierce, who filled the role of interim head coach during the crucial last two months of the previous season, now faces a huge challenge against Harbaugh and the Chargers in the regular-season opener this Sunday. Both teams are looking to make a statement.
Pierce has directed his staff to focus on “beating L.A.” for over two weeks. The matchup involves facing a fresh team led by a coach transplanted from the college ranks, with myriad tweaks to their existing schemes.
“We’re constantly reviewing past footage, digging as far back as we can. We don’t want to be chasing ghosts, but sometimes you might have to look further back,” Pierce said. “Harbaugh and (offensive coordinator) Greg Roman have a history together, so any detail helps. Our staff does a commendable job analyzing the tape, and remember, adjustments have to be made constantly, and our players need to be prepared for that.”
The Chargers kick off the Harbaugh era with franchise quarterback Justin Herbert back at the helm after recovering from plantar fasciitis. However, the offense has seen some significant changes.
Key veterans like wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, and running back Austin Ekeler are no longer on the roster. Stepping into the spotlight are wide receiver Joshua Palmer, 2023 first-round pick Quentin Johnston, and rookie Ladd McConkey. On the running front, JK Dobbins and Gus Edwards will take over.
Wide receiver DJ Chark Jr. (hip) was the only absentee in Wednesday’s practice, while cornerback Tarheeb Still (hip) practiced in a limited capacity.
Harbaugh, ever the enigma known for his quirks and colorful metaphors, urges his team to focus on the fundamentals. Fresh off a national championship at Michigan, Harbaugh returns to the NFL. He previously led the San Francisco 49ers to a 44-19-1 record and a Super Bowl appearance from 2011 to 2014. Harbaugh accepted the Chargers’ offer, which reportedly commands $16 million per year over five years.
The Chargers’ defense, spearheaded by elite talents Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, promises to pressure opposing quarterbacks. Bosa, who recently recovered from a left hand injury, feels ready for Sunday, while Mack comes off a spectacular 17-sack season.
“Missing nearly four weeks allowed me to rest and let my legs heal. I’m ready to play now,” Bosa confidently stated.
The Raiders approach their first game without a playoff win since their Super Bowl appearance after the 2002 season.
Pierce, who led the Raiders to a 5-4 finish as interim head coach, has named the resilient Gardner Minshew II as the starting quarterback for the opener, over Aidan O’Connell.
“Gardner gives us the best opportunity to start fast,” Pierce explained.
While acknowledging the significance of his new role and returning to his roots in L.A., Pierce emphasized the importance of securing their first division win against a highly-motivated, well-coached opponent.
“We need to bring our helmets,” Pierce asserted, emphasizing the physical and tough nature of the forthcoming clash.
The Raiders seek to improve their offensive output, having averaged just 289.5 yards per game and ranking 23rd with 19.5 points per game last season. On the defensive front, Maxx Crosby (14.5 sacks in 2023) leads a talented unit.
Herbert remains wary of Crosby’s abilities, acknowledging the talent and playmaking skill of the Raiders’ defense.
New offensive coordinator Luke Getsy will aim to enhance the Raiders’ rushing game, which ranked 30th last season. With Josh Jacobs now with the Packers, Zamir White assumes the lead at running back (451 yards, 1 touchdown in 2023).
“Week 1, the playoffs, the Super Bowl—they’re all about different speeds, and younger players need to adapt to that,” Pierce noted, emphasizing their preparation.
Injuries saw the Raiders’ tight end Brock Bowers (foot), linebacker Tommy Eichenberg (knee), and cornerback Decamerion Richardson (hamstring) limited in practice on Wednesday.
