Oakland Raiders: A Few Reasons For Optimism, A Few Reasons for Concern

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May 13, 2016; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders coach Jack Del Rio (left) and general manager Reggie McKenzie during rookie minicamp at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Optimism: Stability in the System

Stability in a given system isn’t always a good thing. To prove that statement, simply look back at the nearly three seasons of the Dennis Allen/Greg Olsen/Jason Tarver regime. In this case though, stability and continuity will pay big dividends for the Raiders – having a competent coaching staff will often do that for a team.

Under Del Rio and his well experienced staff, Oakland’s young players took a big step forward in terms of their development. Allen and his staff just didn’t seem able to develop their young players.

In year two under the Del Rio regime though, Oakland’s players – youngsters and veterans alike – are looking to take that next big step forward in their development. And not having to learn an entirely new playbook and a new language to go along with it is going to work wonders for this team.

Dec 24, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) passes the ball against the San Diego Chargers during overtime at O.co Coliseum. The Oakland Raiders defeated the San Diego Chargers 23-20. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

With players like Carr, Amari Cooper, and Khalil Mack set to be the foundation of this franchise for – hopefully – years to come, they need to be able to focus on making plays rather than having to learn yet another system. And the patience owner Mark Davis has shown ever since taking over after the legendary Al Davis’ passing – he did give Allen almost three years after all – should guaranteed that change and turmoil is something this team won’t have to worry about for a little while yet.

Instead, Carr and this team can focus on refining the knowledge they already possess. They can fine tune it, tweak it, and make it their own. We’ve already seen the evidence of Carr taking ownership of the offense by taking existing plays and giving them a little twist here and there to make it more his own thing – something all the greats have the ability to do.

Stability isn’t necessarily always a good thing. In this case though – with a very experienced, competent coaching staff – it’s going to help take the Raiders to another level.

Next: Don't Keep It Simple, Stupid

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