The Raiders enter their Week 8 matchup in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with a four-game losing streak and the NFL's worst rushing defense through seven weeks. Las Vegas allows a league-high 5 yards per carry and has surrendered 1,005 yards and nine touchdowns on the ground, the second-most and fourth-most in the league, respectively. Their last six opponents have all topped 100 rushing yards, including four of the last five gaining at least 148 yards.
The problem reached a low point in Week 7 when the Los Angeles Rams gashed the defense for 199 rushing yards. Coach Klint Kubiak identified tackling as a primary issue Monday, noting the struggles are rooted in "all phases" and affirming the staff can provide better plans. Kubiak said the team is working on tackling technique without bringing players to the ground to manage the wear of the season.
Defensive coordinator Rob Leonard took personal responsibility for the breakdowns Thursday. "When you have missed (run) fits, missed tackles and different angles to the ball, that is 100 percent on me," Leonard said. He emphasized that the unit must fit gaps consistently and funnel the ball correctly, calling it a matter of fundamentals and one-on-one technique.
Defensive end Maxx Crosby echoed the need for better block destruction and individual accountability. "We've got to win your one-on-ones. Everybody's got to know your responsibility and that takes all of us," Crosby said. "When it comes down to it, run defense comes down to attitude and energy."
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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