Following Emotional Win, Raiders Now Focused on Colts

The Las Vegas Raiders' defense has jumped to the top of the league in points allowed per game and touchdowns scored since Interim Coach Antonio Pierce took over.

During that time, the Raiders were also the least penalized defense in the National Football League.

Like Coach Pierce, Raiders Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham sees room for improvement.

"We’ve got to keep improving, I agree," Graham said. "I mean, that's the goal, to go from good to great, and we're not there yet. They're working toward it, but they will all tell you that.

"They understand there is more meat on the bones, as the saying would go. So, for us, it's about having no missed tackles, having no miscues in the game, no points. Again, the Colts are going to obviously challenge us."

Graham says he and the Raiders' defense are focused on what is ahead against the Indianapolis Colts.

"The quarterback [Gardner Minshew] is playing really well, and the scheme is good," Graham said. "I think they're really well-coached. I’ve got a lot of respect for Shane [Steichen]. I think he does a really good job. The offensive line plays connected.

"It’s going to be a challenge, so we’re going to need our best, and it's going to have to be better than it was last week to go into Indy and beat them. So, there's always room for improvement. As long as there's a practice, there's another game, there's room for improvement.

"I'm going to be completely honest. That game is over. As soon as I got in the shower, I was thinking about the Colts. How are they getting their explosive pass plays? How are they getting explosive runs?

"So again, if you dwell on anything in this league for too long, feel satisfied, get complacent, that's when you get passed by. You would have been better off catching me on the plane on Monday, but right now, I'm just worried about the Colts and all the challenges they present, whether it's the tempo, the tight ends in terms of their vertical passing game, the receivers who are dangerous. I can't even tell you. I really haven't thought about it."

The Raiders often have mentioned they have a 24-hour rule when dwelling on games that have already been played. That rule will be tested as they come off an emotional victory over a division rival and hit the road to face the Colts.

The Silver and Black continue the season on New Year's Eve versus the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Don't miss it on Sunday, December 31, at 1 p.m. EST/10 a.m. PST.

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