The Las Vegas Raiders secured a nail-biting 26-23 victory over the Baltimore Ravens in a game that showcased a remarkable defensive turnaround and standout performances from both sides of the ball.
Initially, the Raiders struggled to contain Lamar Jackson and the Ravens’ offense, but things took a dramatic shift as Antonio Pierce’s squad tightened up, eventually shutting down and rattling the former MVP.
By the end of the game, Raiders’ defensive standout Maxx Crosby, who anchored the team’s efforts, wasted no time celebrating with owner Mark Davis.
Fired up after the win, Crosby was overheard shouting, “Let them talk that sh*t! Let them talk that sh*t! We’re gonna back it up. We’re gonna back it up. Let’s f*cking go!”
The Raiders did just that, showcasing impressive toughness and resiliency on both sides of the ball.
Pierce’s gameplan successfully limited Jackson and his receivers, and Crosby was at the heart of executing it. He notched five tackles, with one assisted, and made Jackson’s day difficult by sacking him twice.
A strong case can be made that no player in the entire league plays as hard as Crosby, and that effort was on full display in Vegas’ stunning upset over Baltimore.
Crosby’s relentless pressure forced the Ravens’ offense into uncomfortable situations, contributing to their inability to pull away.
Offensively, Gardner Minshew went toe-to-toe with Jackson, completing an impressive 30 out of 38 passes for 276 yards – 29 more yards than Jackson himself.
Minshew’s efficient passing played a pivotal role in the Raiders’ ability to keep pace with Baltimore.
Star receiver Davante Adams also had a stellar game, leading the Raiders’ receiving corps with nine catches for 110 yards, including a one-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter.
Rookie tight end Brock Bowers also proved why he may very well be the best overall player from this year’s draft as he hauled in nine receptions for 98 yards.
Despite the offensive success, it was the Raiders’ defense that was the backbone of this victory.
Crosby, often facing double-teams and chip blocks, racked up five quarterback pressures, two sacks, four tackles for loss, and a deflected pass.
Already with three sacks this season after a career-high 14.5 in 2023, Crosby’s dominance was key to slowing down Jackson.
Crosby’s leadership on and off the field has been a cornerstone for the Raiders. He hasn’t missed a game in his six-year career, and his durability and tenacity continue to define his role on this team.
Reflecting on the game, Crosby shared during the post-game press conference, “Last week we heard a lot of noise and I took a lot of things personal. But I love that. I believe I’m one of the best in the world, and every day I show up with a purpose.
“I feel like I had a lot of doubters, and I feel like this whole team was being disrespected, so you have to respond. It was great to come here and get a win.”
Crosby’s teammate, Davante Adams, also played a vocal role in motivating the offense during the game.
“I had to speak up a little bit and use some voices just to get guys going. Seeing everybody’s eyes, a switch flipped and it looked like a different team,” Adams said.
“We can’t be a team where we’re just one-dimensional and we’ve got the defense out there holding it down every single time.”
The win not only brought the Raiders to a 1-1 record but also set them up with momentum as they prepare to face the struggling Carolina Panthers this coming Sunday.
Looking at the big picture, do you think the Raiders can be one of the big surprises in the league this season?
Of course, a whole lot will depend on the play of Minshew. However, Vegas is not a team lacking for talent … Could you see them going on a deep playoff run come January???