For the sixth straight game, the Raiders gave up at least 30 points. And each week it just seems to get worse. Even in the win over the Jets, the Raiders defense gave up scores on the first six New York possessions and ultimately allowed a previously lackluster Jets offense to put up 33 points.
The prior week, a banged up Rams team seemed to have their way with the Raiders, scoring at will. That was basically how it went against the 49ers who were even more banged up and without their both their starting wide receivers.
When things get this bad, the focus shifts away from the individual players and to the whole group. And, by extension, the person calling the plays and preparing the game plan -- defensive coordinator Rob Leonard.
Naturally the
questions are about whether he will keep his job. And as of now, head coach Klint Kubiak said he is sticking with Leonard.
"I see us doing the things we said we're going to do better," Kubiak said. "Stand behind Rob, stand behind our defensive staff. Stand behind our players. I think the world wants someone's head on a platter every time things don't go right, but the way that I see it is we brought people here for a reason."
The former defensive line coach was a great story this season, stepping up to be a DC for the first time in his career. He's well liked by the players, but that isn't enough. And you have to wonder just how much longer his leash will be.
Whether the Raiders stick with Leonard or not, the overarching question is what they would have to gain by making a change during this season. Or whether they'd be just as well to let the season play out and revisit the decision in the offseason.
Can the Raiders defenders keep their morale when things are this bad? Midseason changes can help energize a team and offer a better basis for judging the players on the field heading into next offseason.
Each week in which the Raiders look this bad the questions will only get louder.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Despite Raiders defensive struggles Klint Kubiak to 'stand behind' DC Rob Leonard
