Since Antonio Pierce took over as acting head coach, the Las Vegas Raiders have been playing at a high level. The Raiders have reached new heights of performance on both the offensive and defensive ends, which has improved
their standing in the AFC playoff hunt. The Miami Dolphins, one of the best teams in the NFL this season, will put their newfound levels of play to the test when they visit Hard Rock Stadium.
Although their defence is equally as capable as their offence, the Dolphins have won games thanks to their explosive offence. Teams need to respect the pieces that Vic Fangio, the defensive coordinator, has in place. Among them is safety Jevon Holland, who, in just his third season, has established himself as one of the league’s top players at his position. Oregon native Holland was selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draught. Holland is the highest-graded player on the Dolphins defence (90.0), and he is currently the NFL’s top-ranked safety according to Pro Football Focus. This season, he has been outstanding in coverage, recording three pass breakups.
Holland recorded two tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, and 60 total tackles in 2023. Throughout his career, he has racked up 225 total tackles, 20 passes defended, four interceptions, eight quarterback hits, six tackles for loss, and four sacks.
Holland is a very gifted secondary player because of his versatility. He can even be sent on blitzes by Fangio, and he can line up at strong and free safety. In the slot, he can also align himself and perform well. Holland is extremely
intelligent about football and rarely makes mistakes. Holland’s ability to play as a de facto middle linebacker gives the Dolphins defence a dynamic element that is uncommon among safetys. With quarterback Aidan O’Connell at centre, the Raiders’ offence has improved; however, O’Connell will now need to be aware of where No. 8 is at all times on the field.
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