this las vegas raiders It’s hard to find a better opening line than this. Clint Kubiak era.
This team went through a dismal 3-14 record in 2025 and outscored their opponents 27-13 in the new season. miami dolphinsimmediately providing the organization with evidence that its latest rebuild may be headed in the right direction.
Myles Garrett shows why he has what it takes to terrorize NFL this season
There are many reasons for optimism, but three names in particular made this afternoon particularly encouraging: Kirk Cousins, Ashton Jeanty and Michael Mayer.
for tom bradywho owns a minority stake in Strategy The team has been involved with the organization as part of the football decision-making process, and the opening show provided a glimpse into what the team hopes to create as it shakes up its roster and coaching staff.
cousin is the most important part of the equation. The veteran quarterback completed 21 of 30 passes for 160 yards and three touchdowns in his Raiders debut.
Two of those touchdown passes went to Jeanty, whose first score came against Jack Baker Gave an early advantage to Las Vegas. cousin Did throw two interceptions, but his overall performance provided the stability the Raiders were looking for from their veteran signal-caller.
jentiAlso, arguably the biggest offensive difference-maker. The second-year running back rushed for 102 yards on 23 carries and had six catches for 45 yards, and his two touchdown catches were particularly valuable as Miami tried to stay within striking distance.
this Strategy There were initial concerns about his playing time after suffering an ankle injury during pre-season, but he was allowed to play and immediately proved why his presence is so important to the team. Kubiak’s offense.
Raiders finally look like a complete team
The biggest difference from previous seasons isn’t just that Vegas won. this is Strategy Controlled the game.
The defense set the tone early, forcing Miami to punt on its opening drive, and the offense converted those opportunities into scores. Las Vegas ultimately took a 17-6 advantage into halftime and maintained control after the break.
this Strategy The final total was 290 yards, but more importantly the ball was held for 34 minutes and 53 seconds. Miami managed just 259 yards and completed just 2 of 10 third downs.
dolphin quarterback Malik Willis He was also sacked five times and had an interception as Las Vegas disrupted the offense multiple times.
This complementary style was one of the most encouraging aspects of this victory. Instead of relying on one side of the football to save the other; Strategy Always give yourself a favorable environment.
Kubiak’s The first game as head coach also showed that Las Vegas’ offense may be more adaptable than what fans saw during the previous regime.
this Strategy Able to utilize Jeandi’s versatility, rely on the running game when necessary, and allow cousin Throw when the opportunity arises.
Mayer’s contribution was smaller than Genty’s, but his importance cannot be ignored. star tight end Brock Powers Unavailable after knee surgery, the Raiders will need other players at the position to help maintain the structure of their offense.
Meyer He wasn’t a standout performer against Miami, but his role in a revamped offense will still be important as the season progresses.
There’s still a lot that needs to be fixed. Cousins’ two interceptions are a reminder that the Raiders won’t be perfect and the offense will need to become more consistent against better opponents. One win can’t erase last year’s 3-14 problem. But there’s no denying that early signs are different.
Brady’s The impact is already being felt before the season even starts, especially on Strategy“The decision was made to introduce Cousins.
cousin It’s been previously explained that a FaceTime conversation with Brady was a huge impetus for him to join Las Vegas, making their connection particularly relevant to the team’s new direction.
Now, one game later, the decision already looks promising.
The challenge comes immediately. Las Vegas heads to SoFi Stadium in Week 2 to face Los Angeles Chargersa division rival that has historically given the Raiders problems.
Raiders’ official schedule confirmed charger Waiting in Los Angeles after the Miami opener.
A 2-0 start will make that first win even more meaningful, especially with the tough part of the schedule still to come.
However, for now, Strategy They’ve accomplished something that’s become increasingly difficult in recent years: They’ve looked organized, physical, and able to control games from start to finish.
Cousins provides experience, Jeanty provides explosiveness, and the supporting cast also provides help. Kubiak Executing his vision. If Mayer and the rest of the offense can continue to develop around them, Las Vegas may finally have the foundation to truly turn things around.
It’s too early to call the Raiders a contender. But a week later, Tom Brady and Raider Nation got what they’ve been waiting for: tangible evidence that this version of the silver and black might actually be different.