Raiders winners and losers in 24-23 preseason defeat vs. Vikings

The Las Vegas Raiders faced a narrow 24-23 defeat against the Minnesota Vikings in their preseason opener at U.S. Bank Stadium. Despite the loss, the game provided valuable insights into the Raiders' roster, highlighting both promising performances and areas needing improvement.

Winners

- Quarterbacks Gardner Minshew and Aidan O'Connell: Both quarterbacks showcased their potential, providing a glimpse of hope for the Raiders' offensive future. Gardner Minshew, competing for the starting quarterback position, completed 6 of 12 passes for 117 yards, including a 20-yard touchdown to DJ Turner. His performance in the second quarter was instrumental in driving the Raiders to a 20-7 halftime lead. Aidan O'Connell, although limited to just one series, was nearly flawless, completing 7 of 9 passes for 76 yards. His ability to lead the team down the field with precision throws was a highlight of the game.

- Wide Receiver Tre Tucker: Tucker emerged as a standout performer, making several explosive plays. He caught a deep pass from Minshew and showcased his versatility with a 29-yard reception and a 23-yard punt return. His performance positions him as a strong candidate for a key role in the Raiders' receiving corps.

- Kicker Daniel Carlson: Carlson was perfect in his field goal attempts, including a remarkable 56-yarder. His consistency remains a crucial asset for the Raiders, especially in close games.

Losers

- Run Defense: The Raiders' run defense was a significant concern, allowing 142 rushing yards with an average of 6.5 yards per carry. The Vikings' offensive line dominated, and the Raiders' defensive line struggled to contain the run game, which was a primary factor in the team's defeat.

- Left Tackle Andrus Peat: Filling in for the injured Kolton Miller, Peat struggled in pass protection, allowing multiple pressures and a critical third-down sack. His performance highlighted the need for improvement in the offensive line's depth.

- Third-Team Offense and Defense: The Raiders' third-team units faltered in the second half, squandering a 13-point halftime lead. The offensive line allowed multiple sacks, and the defense was exposed in the passing game. Rookie cornerback MJ Devonshire was beaten on a long touchdown, and the secondary's coverage issues were evident.

The game also marked the preseason debut of Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who rebounded from an early interception to throw two touchdown passes. His performance was a key factor in the Vikings' comeback victory. McCarthy connected with Trishton Jackson for a 45-yard score and later found Trent Sherfield for a 33-yard touchdown, demonstrating his potential as a future franchise quarterback.

The Raiders' preseason opener served as a critical evaluation of their roster, with several players enhancing their prospects while others highlighted areas for improvement. As the preseason progresses, the Raiders will look to address these issues and solidify their lineup ahead of the regular season.