The 2017 NFL season has officially begun with the Kansas City Chiefs surprising the league and upsetting the New England Patriots in the season opener. The Chiefs’ victory is a reminder that anything can happen on any given day and fans will have to tune in to all the action.
Much has been said about Derek Carr and his ability to lead an NFL offense, but the quarterback’s ascension to stardom could not have happened without Oakland Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio. Since his arrival, the Raiders have improved every season and according to Michael Gehlken of Las Vegas Review-Journal, Carr credits Del Rio’s ability to build his players’ confidence levels:
I think it’s that confidence. He’s so good at instilling it in each one of us players. When he takes the time to grab you and show you something like that and show you … what you’re capable of, that’s something that sticks with you. … Everyone needs people to encourage them and believe in them. Especially when it comes from the head coach, that’s something, I think, that is a real gift he has.”
Del Rio’s leadership and poise on the sidelines has paid dividends for the silver and black. The Raiders pulled off several close victories during the 2016 NFL season and most of them can be attributed to Del Rio’s gusty play calling in high pressure situations.
With Carr fully healthy, Oakland will look to build upon last season’s successful campaign. With Del Rio at the helm for the long-term, expect more exciting and electrifying victories for the Raiders.
