Seattle – What began as a hopeful final chapter for Pete Carroll now appears to be leading towards an abrupt conclusion. The former Seahawks coach, revered for his contributions to the franchise, is currently at the helm of a struggling Las Vegas Raiders team that sits at the bottom of the AFC West.
After a disappointing 10-7 defeat to the Denver Broncos, the Raiders” record stands at 2-7, marking their third consecutive loss. The team”s scoring average of 15.4 points per game ranks as the third lowest in the NFL. Following the recent game, the Raiders decided to part ways with their special teams coach after a match that included a missed field goal and a blocked punt. Such midseason firings are common in the league, often serving as a scapegoat for deeper issues. However, Carroll”s challenges extend beyond his coaching staff, and it increasingly appears that this may be his final season in the NFL.
In Seattle, the sentiment surrounding Carroll is largely positive. His presence often draws cheers when he appears on the jumbotron at local events. Notably, he has always spoken highly of the city and the Seahawks, even holding a “thank you” press conference after his dismissal. Yet, his exit from Seattle stemmed from valid concerns; the once-dominant Seahawks defense had declined significantly during his last few seasons, prompting the organization to hire defensive expert Mike Macdonald as his successor. While that decision has benefited the Seahawks, Carroll”s new role with the Raiders has not yielded similar results.
When Carroll joined the Raiders last January, the local media and players were captivated by his charisma and enthusiasm. At 74, he retains a youthful energy that many younger individuals would envy. However, enthusiasm alone cannot secure victories in the NFL; success relies on a solid game plan and capable players, neither of which seem present in Las Vegas.
Former Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith is struggling, currently seen as one of the worst offseason acquisitions in the league. After signing a two-year contract worth $75 million, Smith has thrown a league-high 12 interceptions, alongside just 11 touchdown passes, resulting in a dismal QBR of 34.7, placing him 30th in the NFL. While his signing appeared logical given his previous performance in Seattle, the Raiders” decision to acquire him now seems increasingly questionable.
The Raiders” defense is average at best, holding the same 15th position in total defense for both last season and the current one. Carroll, known for his defensive acumen, has not been able to improve the unit significantly. Las Vegas has allowed 81 more points than they have scored this season, reflecting the fourth-worst point differential in the league.
Had the Raiders converted a key two-point conversion in their narrow 30-29 loss to Jacksonville, or if they had successfully executed a 59-yard field goal or avoided a blocked punt in the recent game against Denver, the narrative surrounding Carroll might differ. Yet, the reality is that Carroll has not lived up to the expectations set for him in Las Vegas. While some might attribute the struggles to a lack of talent on the roster, tangible signs of improvement remain elusive.
Despite the challenges, Carroll maintains his belief in the team”s potential, at least publicly. His frustration is evident, as he finds himself in unfamiliar territory. This season is on track to become the worst of his professional coaching career, which spans 19 seasons. The atmosphere surrounding his tenure with the Raiders contrasts sharply with the warm farewell he received in Seattle.
Unlike Russell Wilson, who faced boos upon his return to Seattle, Carroll is respected and celebrated as one of the greatest coaches in the franchise”s history. However, as the legendary Bill Parcells famously stated, “You are what your record says you are.” Carroll”s current record in Las Vegas is far from impressive, and if the Raiders cannot turn their season around, it seems doubtful that he will continue as their head coach.
