The new chapter of the Las Vegas Raiders is now truly underway under head coach Antonio Pierce, with the decisions coming thick and fast. Only yesterday, the team relieved offensive coordinator Luke Getsy of his duties, meaning Pierce now has the not-so-enviable task of choosing who will take over play-calling duties and who will be leading the offense at quarterback. At 3-5, the choices Pierce makes could shape the identity of the Raiders for the remainder of the season and maybe even beyond that.
Raiders HC Antonio Pierce told reporters that he hasn’t decided who will call plays or who will play quarterback once his team returns from its upcoming bye.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 4, 2024
A Fresh Start Without Getsy: The Play-Calling Decision
The release of OC Luke Getsy has brought about an instantaneous need for new play-calling leadership. It is a move that is sure to bode well. This shows that the Raiders are up to rethink the offensive approach this season. Now, Pierce has a few options for handling this responsibility:
- Offensive Coordinator Vacancy: The Raiders could always resort to using an interim in-house play caller from within the coaches on staff or, in a radical way, even expand Pierce’s role for some periods of offensive responsibility. This could bring some freshness to the offense while allowing Pierce to apply his vision directly.
- Committee Play-Calling: Given that it’s a midseason change, Pierce might consider going to a committee system in which several coaches’ inputs are taken to keep consistency. This would result in a seamless transition and give the Raiders an opportunity to try different offensive looks and tempos.
- Raiders’ Options at Quarterback: Minshew, Ridder, and Maybe Even a Richardson Trade
Not only does the quarterback situation go along with it, but the franchise itself has been under review since the firing of Getsy. Current top candidates include Gardner Minshew and Desmond Ridder; however, there are whispers that the Raiders may eye Colts rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson.
- Gardner Minshew: Having such a high-motor and mobile style of play, he has not had the effect on this offense that the fans have looked for to this point in his career. On the other hand, experience and the ability to make plays under pressure may just be what Minshew will bring to stabilize the Raiders, especially considering their adjustments made without Getsy.
- Desmond Ridder: A desire to start Ridder would be for developmental reasons and perhaps a sign that Pierce is looking more toward the future rather than trying to win today. Ridder’s athleticism and strong arm are intriguing, and his youth could infuse some energy into the offense if Pierce wants to look at the long-term potential of players.
- Trade Rumors for Anthony Richardson: There is a rumor that the Raiders might consider trading for Colts QB Anthony Richardson. Raw talent and athleticism- this would be a great addition to the Raiders’ offense. Moving up that far would be a big move, showing that the Raiders truly are serious about finding their quarterback of the future. It would mean the Raiders having to work out a trade with the Colts to acquire Richardson, but it could be just the type of bold, franchise-defining move the team is seeking.
Pierce’s First Key Decisions as Head Coach
With those decisions on the line, Pierce can prove himself to be a leader in making his mark. With a new play-caller and likely another quarterback, he finds himself in a position to shape the Raiders’ offensive identity going forward.
- Impact of a New Play-Caller: A change in play-calling allows Pierce to establish a more aggressive or adaptive offense that better reflects his view of what the team should be. Be it he calling the plays or bringing in a trusted voice, the result could be more versatile game plans and situational awareness.
- Moving to Quarterback for Quick or Long-Term Returns: Pierce’s quarterback decision could mirror the trajectory of the team for the remainder of the year. An immediate improvement and results would mean Pierce was interested in Minshew. On the other hand, Ridder or seeking Richardson may suggest Pierce’s commitment to investing in young players and building a core for the future.
What’s Next For The Las Vegas Raiders?
When the bye week gives Pierce time to survey his options, he’ll have his immediate needs and long-term vision. Moving forward, Raiders fans and the league at large will be keeping an eye on how Pierce handles these pivotal choices in his interim role. Whether he sticks to the veterans or makes bold steps toward a future-oriented lineup, the decisions coming out of Pierce are going to be key in setting the course for the team moving forward.
With Getsy gone, the Raiders’ offense can get its reboot. In making these decisions, Pierce will have to balance immediate success with foundational growth to provide the Raiders with that fresh start they desperately need.
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