Pete Carroll and Geno Smith: Can This Reunited Pair Lead the Raiders to Success?
Las Vegas, NV — October 12, 2025 — The Las Vegas Raiders, once considered a team on the rise, are now staring down a critical crossroads in their 2025 season. After a rocky start that has seen them slip to the bottom of the AFC West standings, head coach Pete Carroll and quarterback Geno Smith are hoping to rekindle their past success to turn the tide for the struggling franchise.
The Raiders, under the leadership of Carroll, who joined the team in the offseason, are hoping to build a strong foundation with Smith at the helm. However, their season has thus far been marred by inconsistent play, injuries, and an inability to execute when it matters most.
A Reunion That Raised Expectations
The reunion between Pete Carroll and Geno Smith, who previously worked together with the Seattle Seahawks, was expected to bring stability to a Raiders team that had struggled with quarterback play. Smith had his best seasons under Carroll in Seattle, where he led the team to playoff appearances and was seen as a capable starter.
But in the early weeks of the 2025 season, Smith has been far from his best. Despite an impressive 2025 season opener, where Smith led the Raiders to a hard-fought victory over the New England Patriots, the team has since struggled. Smith has thrown more interceptions than touchdowns and has consistently struggled to get the ball downfield, leading some to question whether the reunion will pay off.
In a recent press conference, Carroll acknowledged that Smith has faced challenges but defended his quarterback’s ability to lead. “We need to give Geno time,” Carroll said. “He’s been through a lot, but we’re committed to helping him find his rhythm. We have confidence in his abilities.”
The Struggles Continue
Smith’s issues on the field have not been helped by the Raiders’ lack of balance on offense. With wide receivers Jakobi Meyers and Davante Adams injured, the Raiders have had a hard time finding consistency in their passing game. The offensive line has also struggled, making it difficult for Smith to stay comfortable in the pocket.
The defensive side of the ball has not been much better. The Raiders' defense has been inconsistent at best, allowing significant yardage to opposing offenses, and failing to consistently generate pressure. Despite having key players like Maxx Crosby and newcomer Jack Bech, the defense has yet to establish an identity, leaving the team vulnerable in high-stakes games.
Turning the Ship Around
Despite these struggles, Carroll and Smith remain optimistic about turning the team around. The Raiders have the talent to compete, but they need to find the right balance and consistency. Carroll is no stranger to rebuilding programs, having revitalized the Seattle Seahawks during his tenure. Now, he faces a similar challenge in Las Vegas, but with a team that has far more questions than answers.
“If anyone can turn this around, it’s Pete,” said one anonymous source inside the Raiders’ locker room. “He knows how to get the best out of his players. Geno has shown what he’s capable of, and with Pete’s leadership, we can get back to where we need to be.”
The Raiders will have a crucial test ahead, with games against AFC West rivals like the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers looming. These divisional matchups will be pivotal in determining the Raiders’ playoff hopes, and both Carroll and Smith are well aware of the stakes.
What’s Next for the Raiders?
As the trade deadline approaches, the Raiders could look to bolster their roster further, whether that’s through adding another playmaker to the receiving corps or improving their defensive depth. The clock is ticking, and the pressure is mounting.
For now, the focus remains on this week’s game, where the Raiders will attempt to salvage their season and take a step toward reclaiming their identity. Can Carroll and Smith rekindle their magic and lead the Raiders to success? The next few weeks will tell.
Former Broncos OL Ryan Clady Nominated for Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026
Denver, CO — December 10, 2025 — Ryan Clady, one of the most dominant offensive linemen in Denver Broncos history, has officially been nominated for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. This nomination marks a major milestone in Clady's career, one that was filled with accolades, unforgettable moments, and a legacy that continues to resonate in the NFL community.
Clady, who was drafted by the Broncos in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft, played his entire career in Denver, anchoring the offensive line and protecting quarterbacks with both strength and finesse. Over the course of his nine-year career, Clady was named to two Pro Bowls and earned an All-Pro selection, solidifying his place among the league’s best at his position.
A Legacy Built on Consistency and Dominance
Clady's career was defined by his consistency and ability to dominate in the trenches. Standing at 6'6" and weighing 320 pounds, he was a physical force who played with an unmatched intensity. His work ethic and attention to detail earned him the respect of his peers, coaches, and fans alike.
During his career, Clady was a pivotal part of one of the NFL’s most potent offenses, especially during the Broncos' Super Bowl 50-winning season in 2015. His ability to protect quarterback Peyton Manning’s blindside was crucial to the success of Denver’s offense, which featured the league's top scoring attack that year.
But it wasn’t just his physicality that set Clady apart—it was his technical proficiency. A gifted technician, he was known for his balance, footwork, and ability to shut down some of the league’s top pass rushers. Whether it was a pivotal third-and-long or an important short-yardage play, Clady consistently delivered.
A Career Highlighted by Super Bowl Glory
Perhaps Clady’s most notable achievement came in the 2015 season, when he was a key member of the Broncos’ offensive line during their Super Bowl 50 victory over the Carolina Panthers. While the defense was the focal point of that championship run, Clady's protection of Manning played a critical role in allowing the offense to function efficiently. His leadership on and off the field was invaluable to the team's success.
Clady was also part of the Broncos' Super Bowl XLVIII team, which reached the championship but ultimately fell to the Seattle Seahawks. That year was marked by a record-setting offensive performance, with Manning breaking numerous passing records. Clady's ability to protect Manning during that historic season is a testament to his role in one of the greatest offenses in NFL history.
A Hall of Fame-Worthy Career
While Clady’s career was hampered by injuries, including a knee injury that kept him out for the entire 2015 season, his accomplishments during his prime years speak for themselves. Over the course of his career, he played 96 games and started 93, and he was consistently regarded as one of the best left tackles in the league.
Clady's dominance on the field and his contributions to the Broncos' success make him a strong candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His legacy as a key figure in the franchise’s history is undeniable, and this nomination for the Class of 2026 serves as a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional career.
What’s Next for Clady and the Broncos?
As Clady awaits his fate in the Hall of Fame voting, the Broncos' organization is already celebrating his monumental contributions to the team’s success. In a statement from the team, Broncos general manager George Paton praised Clady for his leadership and his impact on the franchise: “Ryan Clady was not only one of the best players to ever wear a Broncos uniform, but he was also a cornerstone of our offensive line for nearly a decade. His dominance at left tackle helped elevate our teams to new heights, and we’re incredibly proud of his career.”
Whether or not Clady ultimately earns a spot in the Hall of Fame, his nomination serves as a testament to the lasting impact he had on the game of football. As the Broncos continue to build their future, Clady’s legacy will remain a shining example of the type of player who embodies both excellence and commitment to his team.
