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Raiders Soar: 3-0 After No. 1 Pick!
30 Sep
Summary
- Raiders achieve rare 3-0 start after holding the No. 1 overall pick.
- Packers' offense struggles significantly, ranking last in rushing yards.
- Drake Maye's performance has plummeted from MVP runner-up to QB2.
The Las Vegas Raiders have achieved a remarkable 3-0 start, becoming only the fourth team in the Common Draft Era to do so after holding the No. 1 overall pick. In contrast, the Green Bay Packers are facing early-season struggles, with their offense under scrutiny. Once known for its explosiveness, the unit now ranks last in rushing yards and 22nd in points per game, largely due to offensive line issues and quarterback Jordan Love's inconsistent accuracy. The team has added veteran offensive linemen Laken Tomlinson and Mekhi Becton in an attempt to bolster the unit.
Quarterback Drake Maye, a former MVP runner-up, is experiencing a significant decline in performance. In 2026, he has posted a dismal 58.6 passer rating with seven turnovers in three games, a stark contrast to his previous season's success. Maye appears to have lost confidence, making hesitant decisions and playing "hero ball" while on the run. The absence of receiver A.J. Brown due to injury has also impacted the Patriots' passing game. The Rams' defense is also underperforming, with a lack of pressure from their defensive line, despite the additions of Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald.
Tight end Brock Bowers made a significant impact in his 2026 debut for the Raiders, recording 10 catches for 116 yards and a touchdown. His versatile deployment across the formation as a quasi-receiver highlights his playmaking ability, especially against linebackers and defensive backs. Head coach Klint Kubiak has creatively utilized Bowers, a trend that has seen him excel since entering the league in 2024. This offensive growth, coupled with Bowers' resurgence, provides the 3-0 Raiders with room for further improvement as they head into a tougher part of their schedule.