Graham Still Credits Former HC for Turnover Emphasis
The Las Vegas Raiders have undoubtedly had a new attitude since Interim Head Coach Antonio Pierce took over the reins of the team.
One of the most apparent outcomes of that has been the defense's ability to force turnovers. Since Coach Pierce took over, the Raiders have earned six takeaways through three games, including three last week.
While the execution has drastically spiked since Pierce took over, Raiders Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham still acknowledges former head coach Josh McDaniels for instilling the emphasis on takeaways before the start of the season.
"It started in the spring with Josh when Josh was here in terms of making it a focal point of what we wanted to do," Graham told reporters Friday. "We emphasize it, whether it was Coach McDaniels, Coach AP, myself -- and I think Rob Ryan does a great job in terms of he's the one tracking punch attempts, chances to alter throws. So, in terms of what we've been doing, we've been tracking and we've been celebrating the habit.
"And so, again, don't focus so much on the result, celebrate the habit. And the guys are buying into it."
As far as when exactly the Raiders' defense turned the corner in its success, Graham does not feel there was a particular point the switch was flipped.
"I just think when you look at the whole season, it's all about evolving and getting better during the season," Graham said. "I don't think it's any different for other defenses throughout the league.
"So, did it click? You would have to ask them. I just know that there's more tape on the opponents now [laughter].
"So, you got an idea of what they're going to do. Guys have spent more time communicating with one another, spending time with each other on the practice field, so naturally, you're going to see some improvement there. But to all of a sudden click, we've played some good defense earlier in the season, too, so I don't have an answer for that one."
Raiders were last in the league in takeaways last season (13). So far this year, they have 14.
The Silver and Black return home this week to celebrate Thanksgiving and take on their AFC West rival, the Kansas City Chiefs, on Sunday, November 26, at 4:25 p.m. EST/1:25 p.m. PST.
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