As Raider Kush, a 40 plus year Raider fan, I’ve always had a vested interest in the pulse of Raider Nation and, frankly, I’ve seen the uncertainty that’s swept through the ranks recently. After a six-win season and lingering uncertainty to our future quarterback, Jimmy Garoppolo, it’s a tough time to be a Raiders fan.
The eye of the storm, it seems, is our second-year head coach, Josh McDaniels. As a former offensive coordinator for the New England Patriots and a short-lived tenure as a head coach for the Denver Broncos, many Raider fans are viewing our current regime as ‘Patriots West’, a label that doesn’t sit well with the Black Hole.
This article aims to delve into McDaniels’ position and offer strategies on how he can win over SOME, not all of the Raider Nation.
1. Open Communication/ Open Dialogue: AKA The Raider Kush’ “HOP” Method
HOP= Honest, Open and Professional: First and foremost, communication is key. The way McDaniels is dealing with the Josh Jacobs situation is leaving many fans discontent.
A more open, direct line of communication could alleviate concerns and, in turn, rebuild trust. This approach isn’t merely for players; it’s for the fans too.
Regular press briefings and honest updates about team issues could go a long way to soothing fan anxiety.
“Speaking the Raider Language”
For us, the Raiders are family. An open conversation between McDaniels, the players, and us, the fans, will strengthen that bond and mean the world to overly concerned parties.
2. Diving into the Depths of Raider History
The Raiders are a legacy, a legend. McDaniels expressing and showing a genuine interest in our shared traditions and culture could be the spark needed to truly make him one of our own. It’s not about becoming another Patriot, but about becoming the ultimate Raider.
Our Raiders aren’t just a team; they’re a living, breathing testament to a glorious history. It’s about making the Raiders the best version of themselves, not creating a Patriots doppelganger.
3. Proving Garoppolo’s Worth
Many fans have reservations about Garoppolo, especially considering his current injury. McDaniels has always shown a preference for him, and it’s high time to prove why.
Should Garoppolo recover in time for week one, McDaniels must show fans that he’s the right quarterback for the team. Winning games will go a long way, of course, but showcasing Garoppolo’s leadership, skill, and toughness is equally important.
4. Building A Strong Staff and Roster
McDaniels’ tenure with the Denver Broncos was marred by perceived mismanagement. This is his chance to prove he’s learned from those experiences.
Building a strong coaching staff and player roster around him, making wise decisions in the draft, free agency, and trades could significantly help improve his standing with the fans.
5. Delivering Victories
Lastly, and quite simply, winning heals all wounds. A victorious Raider is a united Raider Nation. McDaniels can win us over by doing what we all want: Bringing home those wins!
McDaniels can prove his worth by creating a fortress of talent, both in the team and the coaching staff. Sound decisions in drafts and trades could make us all believers in his leadership.
Conclusion:
McDaniels’ journey with the Raiders hasn’t been the smoothest so far, but with the right strategies, he could turn things around. Raider Nation, it seems, is waiting for him to prove he’s more than just a transplant from the Patriots. McDaniels has an opportunity to show that he truly bleeds silver and black.
In the heart of each Raider is a love for this team that transcends any individual. Yet, we can open our hearts to McDaniels, helping him adopt the Raider spirit and guide our team to greatness, IF he’s open to it.
Raider Nation, let’s turn the tide together. For in unity, in our shared passion for the Silver and Black, we find strength.
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