Pete Carroll Slams Critics Calling Raiders' Victory Over Titans a "Fluke": "That Win Was Earned"
Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll has strongly defended the legitimacy of the Las Vegas Raiders' victory over the Tennessee Titans, criticizing those who dismissed the win as a fluke. Carroll, who has decades of experience in the NFL, was vocal in his belief that the Raiders' performance was not only deserved but a reflection of their improvement.
“Anyone who calls that victory a fluke doesn’t understand the game,” Carroll said in a press conference. “The Raiders played hard, executed their game plan, and earned that win. It’s frustrating to hear people try to discredit a team that put in the work and got the result.”
The Raiders’ 24-17 win over the Titans has been the subject of mixed reactions, with some analysts questioning the legitimacy of the victory, citing mistakes made by the Titans as the primary reason for their defeat. However, Carroll believes such views miss the bigger picture.
“Every win in this league is earned,” Carroll continued. “You don’t get lucky to win in the NFL. If you want to be a successful team, you have to show up, execute, and capitalize on opportunities. The Raiders did just that. Anyone who says otherwise is wrong.”
Carroll also pointed out that the Raiders have been showing positive signs of progress this season, especially with their defense stepping up in critical moments. He expressed admiration for the way they responded when the game was on the line.
“Sometimes people overlook the fundamentals,” Carroll added. “The Raiders had the discipline to make the right plays when it mattered, and that’s what good teams do. I have nothing but respect for how they handled the game.”
As the Raiders move forward in their season, they will look to build on this important win, ignoring any criticism that undermines their hard-earned success. For Carroll, the lesson is clear: every victory in the NFL requires effort and execution, and the Raiders’ win against the Titans is no exception.
Colts HC Shane Steichen to make final decision on QB situation behind Daniel Jones
The Indianapolis Colts are rolling at 5-1, but quarterback depth has become a major storyline heading into Week 7. With Anthony Richardson on injured reserve, head coach Shane Steichen will decide who backs up Daniel Jones — either rookie Riley Leonard or veteran Brett Rypien.
The Athletic’s James Boyd took to X (formerly known as Twitter), reporting that a team source confirmed Steichen will make the call after evaluating both options in practice this week.
“Source said #Colts HC Shane Steichen will have the final say of who is QB2 between Riley Leonard and Brett Rypien.
We can also ask Steichen before practice tomorrow (and again Friday after Rypien has practiced the whole week).”
Leonard, a sixth-round rookie from Notre Dame, has been with the Colts all season and has taken most backup reps since Richardson’s eye injury. Meanwhile, Rypien signed to the practice squad on October 14 and brings veteran experience from stints with the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Rams, and Seattle Seahawks.
The decision carries weight. Jones has completely revived his career under Steichen, leading the AFC’s top scoring offense. But should he miss time, the Colts must trust the next man up to keep their momentum going.
Steichen’s evaluation extends beyond game readiness — it’s also about locker room confidence and long-term continuity. Coaches and teammates alike have praised both quarterbacks for their preparation, making the final decision a reflection of who best aligns with the Colts’ offensive identity.
Leonard offers upside and youth, while Rypien brings system familiarity and game experience. The choice by the Colts coach will reveal whether he values development or veteran security as the team pushes for a playoff run.
Steichen is expected to speak before and after practice later this week, with a final depth chart decision coming no later than Friday. Until then, the quarterback room remains under review.
