In 2016, the Raiders went 12-4 and made the playoffs for a number of reasons. Quarterback Derek Carr had his best year, the offensive line was dominating and the defense was opportunistic.
Plus, the Raiders took care of the football on offense while taking it away on defense. That season, the Raiders ranked tied for first in the NFL in the give-away/take-away department at plus-16. The Raiders lost the ball just 14 times (on seven interceptions and seven fumbles) while taking it away 30 times (16 interceptions, 14 fumbles).
In 2017 the Raiders slumped to 6-10 while – not surprisingly – finishing as one of the NFL’s worst teams in give-away/take-away at minus-14. Last season, the Raiders defense collected just 14 turnovers (five interceptions, nine fumbles), while the offense gave the ball up 28 times (14 interceptions, 14 fumbles).
So, this offseason under a new coaching staff, the defense is focusing on creating turnovers.
Defensive coordinator Paul Guenther says taking the ball away from opponents is something that is a priority on the field – during this week’s organized team activities (OTAs) -- and meetings.
“Obviously, it’s a big part of what we talk about in our meeting rooms: turning the ball over, getting is back to our offense,” Guenther told Matt Kawahara of the San Francisco Chronicle. “You see guys are getting excited about it. It’s good to see they’re all running down there, chasing the guy after he intercepts the ball.”
Guenther was referring to a practice this week when defensive back Marcus Gilchrist intercepted a pass and was congratulated by a wave of teammates.
Sports
Cornerback Rashaan Melvin, who figures to be a starter for the Raiders this season after starting for the Colts last season, says he and his defensive mates want to “make it a habit” of creating turnovers.
“We all know how dynamic our offense has the ability to be,” he said.
Guenther’s defenses at Cincinnati, where he was coordinator for several seasons, were known for taking the ball away. Twice over the past four seasons, the Bengals ranked in the top five in interceptions.
It’s one of the reasons new head coach Jon Gruden hired him.
Said Gruden: “I loved the way the Bengals played defense. Up the field, single gap, get after you.”
And, force turnovers. It’s one of the big changes the Raiders will need in 2018 if they want to contend in the AFC West.
