The Oakland Raiders have hit an unfortunate setback on their path to the 2016 Super Bowl. Currently sitting with a record of 10-3, Jack Del Rio’s group is sitting with a comfortable two-game lead in the Wild Card standings, with three games remaining in the regular season.
The 2016 season has been anything but ordinary for this organization. While internal discussions are being made regarding the future location of the franchise, the coaching staff is currently turning this franchise into a winning culture.
Derek Carr and Khalil Mack have turned into cornerstone players, as the group continues learning from their mistakes and soaking in their positives. Although the Raiders lost their first-place seeding in the AFC following their loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, there still remains a lot for the team to learn from.
Del Rio has earned the trust of his team by setting an example, encouraging the team to grow although they are seeing success. During a media session this week, Del Rio elaborated on the lessons to be taken away from tough losses, via Raiders.com:
“Well, my approach is really simple,” Del Rio said. “I tell our guys, ‘We’re not going to lay around and bathe in the adulation of a win Look how good this is.’ We’re also not going to sit and wallow in misery when we lose. We’re going to be matter of fact. We’re going to learn the lessons – and there are lessons to be learned in every ballgame, win or lose. And we’re going to learn the lessons, gain that experience and then go forward and begin our preparation for next.”
After the 21-13 loss, offensive tackle Donald Penn stated he was pissed off from the result, but defensive end Jihad Ward wanted to the team to bounce back stronger than ever.
In comparison to the 2015 season, the Raiders have taken a big leap forward in production. Del Rio outlined the biggest difference in growth from last season has been the fourth quarter play.
The Raiders have had many close battles this season, as nine of their 13 games this season have been decided by one score.
The Raiders have a Week 15 matchup slated on the road against the San Diego Chargers, as the divisional battle still has strong playoff implications.
