The Las Vegas Raiders have made a bold and emotional decision, firing Special Teams Coordinator Tom McMahon just hours after a disastrous performance on Thursday Night Football. But here's where it gets controversial... Was this move a necessary shake-up or an overreaction to a single game? Let’s dive in.
The Raiders’ special teams unit has been a weak link all season, and Thursday’s 10-7 loss to the Broncos was the final straw. Late in the third quarter, punter AJ Cole had his kick blocked near the goal line, setting up the Broncos for a go-ahead field goal. And with less than five minutes left, kicker Daniel Carlson missed a 48-yard field goal in windy conditions—a makeable kick that could have tied the game. And this is the part most people miss... This wasn’t an isolated incident. Last week, Carlson’s missed extra point cost the Raiders a shot at beating the Jaguars, leading to a heartbreaking 30-29 overtime loss. In Week 4, he missed a potential game-winning 54-yard field goal against the Bears. It’s been a rough first season under Head Coach Pete Carroll, with the team falling to 2-7 and being outscored 220-139.
In a statement, Carroll said, “Earlier today, we made the tough decision to relieve Tom McMahon of his duties as special teams coordinator. I have a great deal of respect for Tom and his contributions to the league, but we’ve decided to move in a different direction.” Special Teams Assistant Derius Swinton II will step in to replace McMahon, who had been with the team since 2022.
Here’s the bigger question... Is firing McMahon enough to turn things around, or are the Raiders’ struggles symptomatic of deeper issues? Let’s not forget, special teams is often called the “third phase” of the game, but its impact can be game-changing. For football fans looking to make every game pay off, platforms like Underdog offer a way to stay engaged with easy player picks, no season-long commitments, and real prizes every night. Use promo code NYPOST5 to get $50 in site credits when you play $5! (Must be 18+ and present in a state where Underdog operates. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit http://www.ncpgambling.org. NY: Call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY.)
As the Raiders look to regroup, one thing is clear: special teams can’t be an afterthought. What do you think? Was firing McMahon the right call, or is the team’s leadership missing the bigger picture? Sound off in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
