FSM Essential Recap -Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos- Week 1 -2023

FSM Essential Recap – Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos – Week 1 -2023

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The Raiders, led by Jimmy Garoppolo, rode into Denver and 1-2 stepped over the Broncos en route to a 17-16 victory to start the 2023 season.

Las Vegas Raiders took on the Denver Broncos on Sunday!

The Las Vegas Raiders’ week started with drama, and it ended dramatically. The Raiders had to deal with an unexpected distraction when defensive end Chandler Jones went on social media and openly complained about the team. He shared private text messages between him and team officials, posted pictures of various individuals coming to his house to check on his well-being, and even photos of him burning Raiders paraphernalia.

This was not what anyone expected in an offseason where drama was minimal, and the vibes were positive.

Only one issue caused drama, centered around a familiar face no longer with the team. All offseason, Raider Nation was divided regarding their quarterback situation. Some of the fan base wanted to keep former quarterback Derek Carr, while others were ready to move on. When the Silver & Black signed former New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, it divided the nation more.

But on Sunday, Jimmy G showed why he is beloved by his teammates and coaching staff. Garoppolo led the Raiders down and threw a touchdown pass to give the Raiders the lead. But what he did later in the game is what makes him a warrior and a winner.

Garoppolo showed off his legs, running on a 3rd and 7 to seal the game late in the fourth quarter. His mobility allowed him to make multiple plays outside the pocket to extend drives all Sunday afternoon. He also didn’t make a critical mistake when the game mattered most, something Raiders fans have unfortunately grown to expect in recent years.

Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos was a tough Week 1 NFL matchup. 

Jimmy Garoppolo’s leadership and ability to find ways to win were vital for the Raiders in their opening week win vs the Broncos.

Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos was a dogfight from the beginning.

Jimmy Garoppolo got his first start of his career with the Raiders, and it was highly impressive. While he only threw for 200 yards, Garoppolo averaged 7.7 yards per attempt and had two impressive touchdown passes to Jakobi Meyers.

Garoppolo and the Raiders‘ offense started hot, notching a touchdown on their first possession. Broncos head coach Sean Payton tried an onside kick to start the game, but after a penalty on Denver gave the Raiders the ball, Garoppolo took advantage of the short field and found wide receiver Meyers for a touchdown.

Garoppolo threw another touchdown to Meyers to give the Raiders the lead for good at 17-16. His late scramble for a first down sealed the win for Las Vegas. It was a welcome sight for head coach Josh McDaniels, especially considering Garoppolo briefly left the game after a big hit early.

The only real knock for Garoppolo was a red zone interception where he threw the ball into double coverage. The ball was tipped around and eventually intercepted by Kareem Jackson, but it was one of his few mistakes of the game.

After the game, Garoppolo addressed the decision when speaking with the media. “I mean, it’s a terrible, stupid decision. Just got to take the points. Throw it away when nothing’s there,” the Raiders signal-caller said via ESPN’s Paul Guitierrez. “But I thought mental toughness kicked in, and guys…believed in me, so I appreciate them.”

Both touchdown passes from Garoppolo went to wide receiver Meyers, who led the way for Raiders pass-catchers. The former New England Patriots receiver caught nine passes for 81 yards in addition to those touchdowns before exiting with a scary injury. Meyers left the game late after a crushing hit on the Raiders’ game-sealing drive. The play drew a penalty on Denver and handed Las Vegas a first down. Meyers walked off the field on his own, a good sign for the Raiders and Meyers.

Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos was deciding who who lead the AFC West after Week 1

The Raiders had confidence in Jimmy G, especially head coach Josh McDaniels.

The Las Vegas Raiders vs Denver Broncos took place in Denver, Colorado, on Sunday

The Raiders have been excited and optimistic about Garoppolo’s fit in the McDaniels offense. He was highly accurate on Sunday, and for the most part, his decision-making was excellent.

“That’s Jimmy. He’s got great mental toughness. Love his grit. Love his toughness,” Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels said. “I thought we only had to make one more play than they did, and that’s what we did.”

“It ain’t got to be pretty. You’ve just got to get it done,” Davante Adams said as he walked off the field with Garoppolo after the Raiders stretched their winning streak over their AFC West rivals.

The Raiders will get a great test in Week 2 when the Raiders travel to Buffalo to take on the Bills.

The final score was 17-16, the Las Vegas Raiders over the Denver Broncos.

The Raiders will travel to Buffalo to take on the Bills next Sunday. The kickoff is set for 10 a.m., and CBS will televise the game. The Black Hole will have a watch party at Park Way Tavern in Henderson, across the street from the M Hotel.

 

– Joe Arrigo – Franchise Sports Media

Follow Joe on all social media: @JoeArrigoFSM

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