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If there is a team that deserves some credit for the adversity faced followed by final results, the Raiders have the best story arch to share. With high expectations and a fancy new stadium, the team was mocked by others on their draft strategy. Their head coach Gruden resigned in October amid an email scandal and his racist remarks he has made. Former first round pick Henry Ruggs was arrested on charges on DUI that lead to manslaughter and ultimately released. The other 2020 top draft pick, Damon Arnette was cut as well. If you didn't follow football and read all of this, you would think that the Raiders were a dumpster fire. Now they aren't perfect, but they did the unthinkable and turned the season around, securing a Wild Card spot. The ultimately lost the game by a touchdown to the Bengals, who are one win a way to the Super Bowl. But the credit can be given to the teams efforts, and interim Head Coach, Rich Bisaccia.
A well respected vet, "foxhole guy", and 2002 Super Bowl Champion as Special teams coordinator for the Bucs, Bisaccia finally got the call to be a head coach. He was hired in 2018 as their assistant head coach and special teams coordinator, and on October 11, 2021, named the interim HC. He led the team to a 7-5 record and brought the Raiders back into the playoffs for the first time since 2016. He also became the first interim head coach to lead their team to a postseason birth, since Bruce Arians did it in 2012 with the Colts. Not only was he thankful for the opportunity, but he was thankful for the players hard work. That's what it means to be a Coach of the Year.
The Raiders haven't denounced the idea of brining back Bisaccia, but reports are saying the Las Vegas plans to interview New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels this weekend, and have their eyes also on Jim Harbaugh. If that's the case, Bisaccia’s chances of landing the job appear to be slim. Recently hired Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus has expressed interests in hiring Bisaccia as his special teams coordinator. Eberflus has to replace Chris Tabor, who is taking the same position with the Carolina Panthers, and he has a connection to Bisaccia. The duo spent 5 years together on Cowboys staff.
Respected amongst players, lead a team that had their backs against the wall, I think it's only fair to let Bisaccia run it back.