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PROVIDENCE, RI — The Las Vegas Raiders are set to arrive in New England later today to face the Patriots (2-2), the AFC's reigning Super Bowl representative, in what promises to be an exciting matchup.
Just months ago, the idea that the Raiders could flip their rebuild into a playoff push seemed far-fetched. But a victory on Sunday would do exactly that. While the rebuild under GM John Spytek and Klint Kubiak has been executed impressively, a win over the Patriots would still qualify as an upset.
Three Key Areas for the Raiders
Klint Kubiak's coaching style, his staff's leadership, and the calculated risks taken from 2026 onward have the hallmark of a first-year head coach. In fact, it evokes the old-school Raiders days when superior schematics gave them a weekly edge. Aside from last week against Andy Reid, Kubiak has outcoached his previous three counterparts, easily embarrassing them. Even against Reid, neither coach gained a clear upper hand. Kubiak is sharp, and he understands how critical these three areas are.
1. Stay Committed to the Run Game
The Raiders will not deviate from Kubiak's steadfast dedication to running the football. Kubiak earned his head-coaching job largely because he built his reputation as an offensive coordinator on that commitment. Every game this season, opponents have stacked the box to stop the Raiders' run game, and Sunday will be no different. The Raiders must stick with it and punish the Patriots with their wide zone attack—something New England struggles to defend.
The Mike Vrabel-led Patriots have had trouble defending outside runs, which plays right into the hands of Kubiak and his outside zone scheme. New England's run defense issues stem from thin depth along the defensive front and problems setting the edge. Opponents have exploited their unproven, younger edge rushers with perimeter sweeps and outside zone plays, stretching the field and wearing down the front seven as the game goes on. For the Patriots, Kubiak will serve up their biggest defensive weakness on a platter.
Other issues persist for the reigning AFC champs, including inconsistent second-level tackling by linebackers (not named Spillane) and safeties, which has allowed ball carriers to turn short outside gains into explosive runs. OC Andrew Janocko wasn't about to reveal any game plan details, but he did stress the importance of getting the run game going for the Silver and Black.
"I think we just have to pay attention to our details," Janocko said. "Starting with ourselves, what we're asking of the players, how we're attacking each plan, what we are attacking each game plan. Then, presenting a great plan to the players, allowing them to be detailed so they can go out, play fast, and attack it. That's what we're looking forward to doing."
2. The Injury Report (In-Game)
The Patriots boast a strong defense led by former Raider MLB Robert Spillane, who never wanted to leave Las Vegas. However, they are thin in many areas, much like the Raiders. Given the lack of depth on both sides, neither team can afford injuries. WR Jalen Nailor is not expected to play for the Raiders, and while that loss is significant, it's manageable against this Patriots defense. Still, keep an eye on the health of both teams, as one key injury could swing the game either way.
3. Mistakes
Last week, it was noted that the Raiders weren't good enough to beat the Chiefs and themselves. Ultimately, both teams made mistakes, but the Chiefs were good enough to overcome their own errors and beat the Silver and Black. This Sunday, the Raiders' opponent isn't as strong as the Chiefs. But the Raiders still can't beat themselves and the Patriots. Mistakes will likely determine the winner in such a close game.
DC Robbie Leonard understands this and must keep the Raiders focused on fundamentals. He explained: "It always comes back to fundamentals and execution, especially in the critical moments. That they felt the reality of what you preach every day, of being locked in, regardless of the environment and how loud it is. A call can't save you. It comes down to fundamentals and taking the ball away and playing blocks the right way, releasing blocks, being on the same page in coverage."
Watch My Latest Podcast Hondo S. Carpenter Sr. is an award-winning sports journalist with decades of experience. He serves as the Senior Writer for NFL and College sports, and is the beat writer covering the Las Vegas Raiders. Additionally, he is the editor and publisher for several sites On SI. Carpenter is a member of the Pro Football Writers Association (PFWA), the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), and the United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA). Follow HondoCarpenter.