When analyzing the success of an NFL team, one of the most important metrics is the number of penalties the team faces.The Las Vegas Raiders have found success under interim head coach Antonio Pierce, and a major contributing factor to that success has undoubtedly been improved player discipline on the field.
Antonio Pierce has noticed a real difference in the amount of discipline used by the players in the Raiders organization. In Weeks 1-8 of the 2023 regular season, Josh McDaniels’ Raiders had open tackles and 44 penalties committed against them. Through the first eight weeks, the Raiders averaged 5.5 penalties per game.When Antonio Pearce was appointed caretaker manager, he tried to address concerns about penalties and misconduct on the pitch.
Under Pierce’s guidance, the Raiders reduced the number of penalties against them. From Weeks 9-17, the Raiders had 31 penalties. Over the last nine games of the season, the Raiders averaged 3.44 penalties per game.After the 2023 regular season, the Raiders were the least penalized team in the NFL. Antonio Pearce was responsible for introducing a new way of thinking and attitude that energized the dressing room.
Pierce demanded respect in the locker room and earned respect from players and coaches. From Week 9 through Week 17, the Raiders developed a mindset and environment that fostered discipline and success on the field with few penalties. The culture and attitude created under Pierce took root not only in the locker room, but also in the minds of the players and coaches, creating discipline.
Antonio Pierce has now been named the NFL’s head coach for the 2023-2024 season and will have the opportunity to show his continued prowess in the field.The NFL Scouting Combine will be held from February 27 to March 4, 2024 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. The NFL Draft will be held April 25-27, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. The Las Vegas Raiders are currently 13th overall.
