The Las Vegas Raiders, previously known as the Oakland Raiders and briefly as the Los Angeles Raiders, are a storied franchise in the National Football League (NFL). Known for their distinctive silver and black uniforms, the Raiders have captivated millions of fans worldwide with their aggressive style of play and a rich history of success, including multiple Super Bowl victories.
Whether you’re betting on PowerPlay or just a fan, this article explores critical events and milestones in the Raiders’ journey from inception to their current status in Las Vegas.
Early Years (1960-1979)
- 1960: The Oakland Raiders joined the American Football League (AFL) as one of its eight founding teams. Their first season was challenging, with the team finishing last in the league.
- 1963: Under the new leadership of Al Davis, who became head coach and general manager, the Raiders began to turn around. They finished the season with a 10-4 record, significantly improving from their previous performances.
- 1970s: The Raiders won their first Super Bowl (XI) in 1977, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 32-14, highlighting a decade of excellence.
The Late 20th Century (1980-1999)
- 1980s: The Raiders captured two more Super Bowl titles during this era. They defeated the Philadelphia Eagles in 1981 (Super Bowl XV) and the Washington Redskins in 1984 (Super Bowl XVIII).
- The Raiders moved to Los Angeles in 1982 and played their home games at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Their first game in Los Angeles was on November 22, 1982, against the San Diego Chargers.
- 1985: Notable players during this period included Hall of Famers Howie Long and Marcus Allen and later Bo Jackson, who joined in 1987 and was known for his dual-sport career in football and baseball.
- 1990s: The Raiders faced stiff competition and did not win any Super Bowls but remained a formidable team. Rich Gannon joined the team in 1999, setting the stage for a resurgence.
- Failing to build a new stadium, the Raiders played their last game in Los Angeles on December 24, 1994, against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Raiders played in Los Angeles for 13 seasons before returning to Oakland in 1995.
Entry into the 21st Century (2000-2019)
- 2000s: Despite challenges, the Raiders made it to Super Bowl XXXVII at the end of the 2002 season but were defeated by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
- 2011: The team’s long-time owner and iconic figure, Al Davis, passed away. His son, Mark Davis, took over the ownership and continued his father’s legacy.
- 2016: The NFL approved the Raiders’ move to Las Vegas, culminating in relocating to Allegiant Stadium in 2020.
Present Day
Since moving to Las Vegas in 2020, the Raiders have embraced new opportunities and challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic affected their initial seasons in the new city, but the team adapted and continues to compete at a high level.
Impact Beyond the Field
The Raiders’ influence extends beyond football. Known as “Raider Nation,” their fan base is among the most passionate in the NFL. The team’s unique culture and style have made them a significant part of American sports culture, frequently featured in various media.
Iconic Players and Coaches
The Raiders’ legacy includes influential figures such as John Madden, a legendary coach who led them to their first Super Bowl win, and players like Jim Plunkett, Ken Stabler, and George Blanda. Additionally, pioneers like Art Shell, the first African American head coach in the modern NFL era, have been instrumental in shaping the franchise.
Memorable Moments and Rivalries
The Raiders’ history is filled with memorable games and fierce rivalries, particularly with the Los Angeles Chargers, Denver Broncos, and Kansas City Chiefs. These matchups have often determined the balance of power in the AFC West and are highlights of each NFL season.
