Raiders examine halftime approach after third-quarter scoring struggles

Las Vegas Raiders coach Klint Kubiak said Monday, October 19, in Henderson, Nevada, that his staff is examining its halftime process after the team was shut out in the third quarter against both Kansas City and Buffalo. The Associated Press reported that the Raiders lost each game by three points, making their lack of production after halftime a pressing issue.

Kubiak said the coaches were trying to identify what the poor third quarters had in common and how to put players in a better position. He called the review of what the team does at halftime and asks players to do when they return a major point of emphasis. He did not identify a specific change already made.

How the third quarters hurt Las Vegas

Against Buffalo on October 18, the Raiders were tied 13-13 at halftime but lost the third quarter 10-0. Kirk Cousins threw an interception that set up a Bills touchdown and made it a two-possession game. Las Vegas rallied to tie it in the fourth quarter before losing 33-30, according to the Raiders’ game recap.

Cousins said the offense had too many three-and-outs after halftime. He said improving its start to the third quarter could help the team win games. Against Kansas City, Las Vegas had led by three points at halftime before another scoreless third quarter and a three-point defeat, AP reported.

Red-zone chances and the Rams game

The third quarter was one part of the Raiders’ scoring problem. AP reported that they turned two of five red-zone opportunities into touchdowns against Buffalo and none of two against Kansas City. Both games ended in three-point losses. Cousins still threw for 313 yards and two touchdowns to Tre Tucker against the Bills.

Las Vegas is scheduled to host the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, October 25. Kubiak’s staff has the week to work on its halftime approach before that game, with the Rams’ Matthew Stafford the next quarterback the Raiders are due to face.