Raiders' Emphasis on Creating Turnovers Paid off Sunday

The Las Vegas Raiders forced two turnovers in their 34-7 preseason victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.

The Las Vegas Raiders' defense was a group of ballhawks on Sunday when the team defeated the San Francisco 49ers, 34-7.

The club has continually placed an emphasis on making plays on the football so far in training camp. That certainly was evident Sunday as the Raiders forced two turnovers, which didn't even paint the whole picture, as there were a number of disruptions that should have resulted in more.

"I thought we actually had more opportunities -- we got our hands on more footballs than what we ended up coming up with, which again, until you start getting close, it's hard to create them," Raiders Coach Josh McDaniels when he addressed the media in his post-game press conference. "So, I thought the defense was really connected tonight, for the most part, and tried to make the windows as tight as it could. 

"And we were punching and stripping at the ball a little bit, so that's the way we want to play, and that's how we want to force the offense to drive the ball and do it that way. Didn't give up a bunch of big plays, which always gives you more opportunities. So, good complementary football; any time you can turn it over and then turn those turnovers into points and be on a short field, that's helpful."

The Raiders' two turnovers each came in the second half.

The first was a forced fumble by Las Vegas linebacker Curtis Bolton III that was recovered by safety Azizi Hearn.

The second came early in the fourth quarter, as Raiders safety Sam Webb earned himself an interception that he would return all the way down to San Francisco's 2-yard line.

Each turnover led to a touchdown from Raiders running back Sincere McCormick.

Las Vegas rookie linebacker Amari Burney, who came away with a sack in the win, nearly had himself an interception.

Raiders cornerback Duke Shelley almost recorded a pick as well, but his failure to catch the ball would end up becoming a 49ers touchdown, their only scoring play of the game.

The Silver and Black return to preseason action when they play the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 19, at 9 p.m. EDT/6 p.m. PDT.

Please tell us your thoughts when you like our Facebook Page WHEN YOU CLICK RIGHT HERE.