The Raiders won just eight of 36 games with Dennis Allen as head coach, but Oakland players continue to vouch for him, writes Nate Stuhlbarg of CSNBayArea.com. “A good man lost his job,” said rookie quarterback Derek Carr. “Everyone has to take responsibility for that, not just him. We needed to play better.” The latest from Oakland..
- More from Stuhlbarg, who writes that the same Raiders players are excited to play under interim head coach Tony Sparano. Sparano, who will be considered for the permanent position, promised the team a different coaching philosophy than what Allen brought to the locker room. He spoke about that philosophy with the team earlier today, but players declined to divulge details.
- The Raiders are a disappointing 0-4 going into the bye week but they have gotten production from their 2014 draft class, Bill Williamson of ESPN.com writes. Second round pick Derek Carr was the first rookie quarterback on the field this season and has shown great poise. Meanwhile, No. 5 overall pick Khalil Mack has been playing good, solid football despite not registering a sack yet.
- More from Williamson, who writes that General Manager Reggie McKenzie needs Sparano to win. Owner Mark Davis mentioned that scheme issues have held the Raiders back and if Sparano can right the ship, then it could show that McKenzie has brought in the right players. However, if the Raiders finish with four or less wins, that could be viewed as an indictment on the talent.