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The Las Vegas Raiders have a quarterback issue on their hands once again, in what has become an all-too-common theme in Las Vegas.
Smith's Perception is Key
There is no way around it. Smith has struggled through five games, as aside from the first game of the season, the Raiders' offense has had issues. During their four-game losing streak, the Raiders' offense has failed to score a touchdown in two of those games.
A struggling Raiders quarterback is not new, as Smith marks the sixth quarterback to start a game for the Raiders since the 2023 season. However, that does not make things any easier for Smith. Before practice earlier this week, Smith explained how he takes care of himself mentally.
"Number one, I talk to God. I'm big on my faith, reading my Bible, and just always trying to connect myself with the higher power. And then my mother, my father, brothers, sisters, my teammates. I mean, I have a great support group around me. And I think when you think about going through things, I don't think I went through anything," Smith said.
"I've been in the NFL the whole time, so there's not much that I've gone through. The reality is, it's all your perception. So, whether or not you think it's something or you think it's nothing, it's just how you look at it."
Smith is correct that perception is reality, but reality is reality, too. The reality is that Smith currently leads the National Football League in interceptions. Most of his nine interceptions came off bad reads and bad throws that he must correct immediately before things get worse.
Still, Smith made it clear that none of the outside noise surrounding his performance or the Raiders' 1-4 start to the season motivates him in any way. Smith made it to the NFL and has lasted as long as he has in part because of his ability to tune out the noise.
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"I'm not externally motivated. That's just not how I am. I'm motivated every single day. I'm looking forward to today's practice. I don't look too far ahead or too far behind. I'm just staying where my feet are," Smith said.
"Nothing outside of me can motivate me, and so that's just who I am. I want to motivate my teammates, if I can. But we all have a job to do, and we've all got to make sure that we're focused and getting our job done."
Payton Wilson Sets NFL History with Jaw-Dropping Speed, Proving Steelers’ Defense Can’t Be Stopped
Pittsburgh, PA — October 10, 2025 — It’s one thing for a linebacker to make a game-saving tackle. It’s another when that same linebacker sets an NFL record for speed. That’s exactly what
With 22.48 mph clocked on Next Gen Stats, Wilson’s speed on a critical play late in the game shattered the previous record for the fastest speed ever recorded by a linebacker. The jaw-dropping moment came during a blown coverage by safety
The tackle prevented a potential game-winning touchdown for the Vikings and forced them to burn valuable time with four more plays, allowing the Steelers to maintain control. While the tackle was a huge play in terms of the game’s outcome, it was Wilson’s speed that stole the spotlight — as it broke a 9-year record previously held by other NFL speedsters.
A Speed That Defies Expectations
Wilson’s impressive speed isn’t just a feat for a linebacker — it places him among the NFL’s elite players, regardless of position. His 22.48 mph clocking is one of the fastest speeds ever recorded, placing him among the top 10 fastest players in NFL history. The NFL’s all-time speed leader is
What’s more impressive is that Wilson isn’t a cornerback or a wide receiver — he’s a 6-foot-4, 240-pound linebacker. Speed like that, especially from a player of his size, is a rarity. But Wilson’s determination to make the play, his relentless pursuit, and his ability to maintain top speed for such a long distance highlight the unique skill set that has now elevated him into the conversation of the league’s most electrifying players.
A Historic Moment for the Steelers’ Defense
For the Steelers, Wilson’s record-setting performance isn’t just a moment of individual glory — it’s a testament to the strength of their defense.
But it’s not just about physical talent. Wilson’s awareness and discipline on the field were equally impressive. Despite his extraordinary speed, he didn’t rush blindly — he kept his focus on Addison and tracked him every step of the way, making the critical tackle when it mattered most. This combination of physical gifts and mental discipline is what makes Wilson one of the most promising young linebackers in the NFL today.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Payton Wilson
With the Steelers off to a solid start in the 2025 season, Payton Wilson’s incredible performance in Week 4 has the potential to be a defining moment for both his career and the team’s defense. His ability to be a difference-maker in high-pressure situations has made him one of the most exciting players to watch.
While it’s early in the season, Wilson’s speed and playmaking ability are likely to continue to propel him to the forefront of NFL conversations. With 3 sacks, 10 pressures
If this Week 4 performance is any indication, Payton Wilson isn’t just a rising star — he’s on his way to becoming one of the most feared linebackers in the NFL.
