FOOTBALL
Raiders Coordinators Discuss How They’re Preparing For Russell Wilson
Sep 28, 2022, 1:58 PM | Updated: 3:50 pm
DENVER, COLORADO - SEPTEMBER 25: Russell Wilson #3 of the Denver Broncos rushes during the second half against the San Francisco 49ers at Empower Field At Mile High on September 25, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
Following Sunday’s loss to the Titans and becoming the NFL’s only 0-3 team to start the 2022 season, the Raiders are looking ahead to Week 4 and how they can get over the slump.
The Raiders’ offensive and defensive coordinators spoke to the media about what was discussed following Sunday’s loss to Tennessee and how they’re preparing for a 2-1 Broncos team that just squeaked by the 49ers, 11-10.
Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham spoke in detail about Russell Wilson. There is a connection between the two as Wilson was Graham’s ball boy at the University of Richmond.
“I knew him when he was a kid. His brother played for us at University of Richmond,” Graham said. “So, I mean, he had these big hands, and he could throw the ball. He threw ball better than our quarterback – I don’t want to say that. (Former Richmond Quarterback) Stacy Tutt would get mad at me if I said that. Stacy, I didn’t mean that. But he could throw the ball pretty good when he was a young kid. And I think just the ability to throw the ball deep and the accuracy with it. He throws a very catchable ball, that’s one thing that stands out just over the years with him.”
Defensive end and newcomer Chandler Jones has gotten off to a slow start for the Raiders, only registering 6 tackles and no sacks, interceptions or forced fumbles. However, he has had success against Russell Wilson. When the two were both in the NFC West, Jones recorded nearly 14 sacks on the former Seahawks quarterback over nine career games.
“I know they’re friends and they’re probably excited to go against each other,” Graham said.
Offensive Coordinator Mick Lombardi spoke about the balance of working on what needs fixing while also highlighting the positives. Essentially, it comes down to consistency.
“I think the guys have had a great mindset and we’re going to continue to do that for them as coaches, as a coaching staff, and as a whole building,” Lombardi said. “Be the same person every single day. Work extremely hard to try and get that win, which we know we’re going to try and do every single day this week moving forward and the next week after that, and next week after that. Be as consistent as consistent can be.”
