Transcript: Raiders Head Coach Press Conference






What are your thoughts about the Broncos going into this week?

Going into this week against the Broncos, our focus is squarely on getting back on track. Early division games like this are more than just another tick on the schedule; they're crucial stepping stones towards our larger goals. Success in these matchups can set the tone for the season and significantly impact our playoff aspirations.

The Broncos, as always, present a unique challenge. They're a well-coached, talented team with the ability to make big plays on both sides of the ball. It's crucial for us to be disciplined in our approach, execute our game plan effectively, and minimize mistakes.

This game is an opportunity for us to make a statement within our division. We're looking to establish our identity, build momentum, and show that we're serious contenders. Every player in the locker room understands the importance of these divisional clashes, and we're gearing up to bring our best effort to the field.








What is the status of David Ojabo and when is he set to return?

David Ojabo is on track for a return after our bye week. We've got the Ravens game coming up, and then we hit our bye. Post that break, we're expecting to have Ojabo back in the mix, fully ready to go. This timing works well for us and for him, giving him that extra bit of time to ensure he's at 100%.

Having him back will be a significant boost for our defense. His skill set, energy, and ability to impact the game are elements we've been eagerly awaiting. The team is looking forward to integrating him back into our defensive schemes and seeing him contribute on the field. His return is another step towards strengthening our team as we continue through the season.






Over your career, what makes a team better at not turning the ball over as the season goes along? What kind of things you need to emphasize? How much of it is coaching? How much of it is a mental part? Physical part?

Absolutely, buying into the scheme is crucial when it comes to reducing turnovers as the season progresses. It's all about trust — trust in the process, in the system, and in each other. When players fully commit to what they've been practicing, and trust their training and their instincts, it shows on the field.

Emphasizing the importance of trusting their eyes is key. This is especially true with a rookie QB who may have all the physical tools and speed. It's about teaching them to slow down, process the game, and not deviate from the game plan under pressure. This is both a mental and physical discipline — mentally, in terms of making smart decisions, and physically, in terms of executing those decisions with precision.

Balancing the mental and physical aspects of the game is indeed challenging, but it's essential for minimizing mistakes. When a team finds that balance, when everyone's on the same page and executing as planned, that's when you really start to see progress. It's a process, and as a coach, guiding and nurturing that process is one of the most rewarding parts of the job. Once a team hits its stride in this respect, the potential for success skyrockets.