Raiders Look to Youth, Not Wins, as Texans Eye Seventh Straight Victory
The Houston Texans (9-5) are rolling into Week 16 riding a six-game win streak, and they’ll look to make it seven when they host the struggling Las Vegas Raiders (2-12) on Sunday at NRG Stadium. Kickoff is set for 3:25 p.m. CT, and while the Texans are pushing for playoff seeding, the Raiders are navigating a very different reality.
Las Vegas has dropped eight straight and is firmly out of postseason contention. But that doesn’t mean Sunday’s matchup is meaningless-at least not for the Raiders' future. With the playoffs off the table, the focus in Vegas has shifted from wins and losses to development and evaluation.
Raiders’ Priorities: Development Over Results
At 2-12, the Raiders' front office and coaching staff are using these final weeks as a proving ground for their young talent. The goal? Find out who’s worth building around and who might not be part of the long-term plan.
This is the perfect stage to throw rookies and second-year players into live action. There’s no pressure to win, only an opportunity to grow. For a team that’s been cycling through coaches and quarterbacks at a dizzying pace, identifying foundational pieces is more valuable than a late-season upset.
Geno Smith’s Future in Question
Veteran quarterback Geno Smith is back under center after missing time with injury, but don’t expect these final three games to serve as a true audition. Smith’s 13 starts have offered a fairly complete picture, and it hasn’t been flattering. The Raiders' offense has been among the league’s worst, and while the issues go beyond the quarterback, Smith has played a central role in the unit’s struggles.
With the offense sputtering and no clear sign of a turnaround, Smith’s future in silver and black looks murky at best. His fate could be tied to head coach Pete Carroll’s, and if the team decides to clean house, both could be on the move.
Ashton Jeanty: Flashes Amid Frustration
Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty has shown glimpses of what he can do, especially when he’s used creatively in the passing game. But behind a struggling offensive line, it’s been tough sledding.
If the Raiders can scheme ways to get Jeanty into space-screens, swing passes, misdirection-he might be able to make a few plays. Still, without better blocking up front, his ceiling is capped for now.
The good news? He’s been breaking tackles and gaining yards after contact all year.
The foundation is there. He just needs a better environment to thrive.
Who to Watch: Young Talent on Display
While Jeanty is a name to watch, he’s far from alone. Tight end Brock Bowers continues to be a focal point, and wide receiver Jack Bech is quietly making the most of his limited targets. If Bech gets more looks, he could carve out a bigger role heading into next season.
On the offensive line, rookie Caleb Rogers will face a serious test against a Texans front that’s been disruptive all season. After a rough outing last week, this is a big opportunity for him to bounce back.
Defensively, cornerback Darien Porter is another player looking for redemption after a tough performance. The interior line duo of J.J. Pegues and Tonka Hemingway could also make some noise-both are raw but intriguing talents who could benefit from extended snaps.
Linebacker Tommy Eichenberg is quietly putting together a solid stretch and deserves more reps, while offensive lineman DJ Glaze is entering a make-or-break stretch. If he doesn’t show improvement soon, his spot could be in jeopardy.
Path to a Raiders Upset? It’s a Long One
Let’s be real: this is a tall order for the Raiders. They’re facing the league’s top scoring defense with the NFL’s lowest-scoring offense. That’s not exactly a recipe for success.
But if there’s a path to victory, it starts with controlling the clock. Establishing the run-even if it’s just enough to win the time of possession battle-could keep things close. From there, it might take something chaotic: a blocked punt, a big return, maybe even a defensive touchdown.
The Raiders haven’t been able to move the ball consistently, let alone finish drives. So if they’re going to pull off the upset, it’ll likely come from an unexpected spark rather than a sustained offensive performance.
Final Thoughts
For Houston, this is another chance to solidify their playoff position and keep momentum rolling. For Las Vegas, it’s about laying the groundwork for the future. Wins may be out of reach, but growth isn’t-and for a team searching for answers, that’s what matters most right now.
Kickoff is set for 3:25 p.m. CT.