The Las Vegas Raiders entered the 2026 NFL season with low expectations after years of turnover in the coaching staff. Since 2020 the franchise has cycled through six head coaches, including a brief stint by former Super Bowl champion Pete Carroll that ended with a 2‑15 record. This season, however, the team appears to have found stability under offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, who arrived from Seattle after helping the Seahawks win a Super Bowl.
Early wins signal a new direction
Week 1 saw the Raiders defeat the Miami Dolphins 27‑13, a decisive victory that set the tone for the opening month. The following week, Las Vegas traveled to face the Los Angeles Chargers, a team many analysts had picked to win the AFC West. The Raiders prevailed 26‑14, with rookie safety Justin Herbert intercepted twice. In Week 3, the Raiders held off the New Orleans Saints 35‑27, thanks in part to a late fumble forced by Maxx Crosby that secured the win.
Offensive efficiency leads the league
Statistical rankings back up the on‑field results. According to Sumer Sports, the Raiders rank eighth in pass success rate after three weeks. Quarterback Kirk Cousins leads the NFL in touchdown passes and sits 10th in expected points added (EPA) per pass. The offense has been efficient, moving the ball effectively and limiting turnovers.
Defense ranks among the best
Defensively, Las Vegas is performing at a high level. The team holds the third‑best defensive EPA per play in the league, trailing only the Seattle Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings. The Raiders have recorded four interceptions, the most in the NFL, and have tallied ten sacks, placing them fourth overall. These numbers suggest the defensive unit is not merely benefitting from favorable matchups but is executing a disciplined, aggressive scheme.
What this means for the Raiders’ future
While it is too early to predict playoff outcomes, the Raiders’ 3‑0 start is their first such stretch since 2021 and only the third since the turn of the century. The early success provides a foundation for the franchise to build upon and offers hope to a fan base that has endured years of disappointment. If the team can maintain its offensive efficiency and defensive pressure, it could remain competitive throughout the season.
Looking ahead
Upcoming games will test the Raiders against tougher opponents, but the current momentum suggests the coaching staff’s adjustments are paying off. Fans and local businesses alike are optimistic that the Raiders can become a consistent contender, bringing renewed excitement to Las Vegas and its surrounding community.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
