The Las Vegas Raiders face a pivotal moment in their 2025 campaign. After two disappointing seasons and with the Kansas City Chiefs’ continued dominance looming over the division, Pete Carroll’s first year as head coach carries immense pressure.
Tonight’s preseason matchup against the San Francisco 49ers isn’t just another exhibition game. It’s another chance for Carroll to build the culture that convinced the Raiders to hire the NFL’s oldest active coach, and for key players to prove they belong in his system.
Will Geno Smith and the Raiders Starters Take the Field Against San Francisco Tonight?
Carroll’s philosophy remains crystal clear: if you’re healthy, you’re playing. His approach from last week’s game against the Seattle Seahawks carries over to tonight’s home matchup with the 49ers. The veteran coach believes in giving his starters meaningful snaps, even in preseason action, as part of building the winning culture that made him an attractive hire for the Raiders.
When asked about his starters’ availability for Saturday’s game, Carroll was direct. “Everybody’s live,” he told reporters, signaling that the first-team units will see action once again. This approach mirrors what fans witnessed against Seattle, where Smith played just one drive and completed only one pass before giving way to the backups.
Pete Carroll on whether #Raiders‘ starters will play Saturday: “Everybody’s live.”
— Tashan Reed (@tashanreed) August 14, 2025
The exact snap count for the starting offense remains uncertain, but expect Carroll to extend their playing time beyond the single drive they received against Seattle. Building continuity and gaining additional repetitions take precedence, especially if the opening possession ends quickly, as it did last week. Smith needs more opportunities to establish timing with his receivers and show he can lead this offense effectively.
Defensively, Maxx Crosby should create immediate problems for Brock Purdy and the 49ers’ offense. Facing a San Francisco offensive line that hasn’t inspired confidence, Crosby’s pass-rushing ability could dominate early snaps when he’s paired with the starting defense.
Which Young Raiders Will Seize Their Opportunity Tonight?
Beyond the veteran starters, the spotlight shifts to Las Vegas’ young talent seeking to make their mark in their second preseason appearance. Running back Ashton Jeanty faces particular scrutiny after struggling against Seattle, where the offensive line failed to provide adequate blocking for his rushing attempts.
Jeanty’s development carries significant weight for the Raiders’ 2025-26 prospects. The team desperately needs improvement in their ground game after ranking among the NFL’s worst rushing attacks in 2024. As the most dynamic and explosive running back in college football last season, Jeanty represents hope for a more balanced and competitive offense this year.
At wide receiver, Shedrick Jackson emerged as the clear standout from the first preseason game. His four receptions for 76 yards and one touchdown showcased the playmaking ability that could earn him a roster spot. Additionally, fans will monitor second-round rookie Jack Beck closely, as he’s expected to provide Smith with a physical, high-upside target in the passing game.
The rookie Cam Miller delivers a TD to Shedrick Jackson after the pump fake 🎯
LVvsSEA on @NFLNetwork
Watch live out-of-market preseason games on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/SgrkgxVvMA
— NFL (@NFL) August 8, 2025
How Will the Raiders’ Defense Test San Francisco’s Struggling Offensive Line?
The defensive side of the ball presents an intriguing matchup, particularly regarding Las Vegas’ pass rush against a 49ers offensive line that hasn’t generated confidence among San Francisco fans heading into the 2025-26Â season. Players like Tyree Wilson, still working to establish their place in the league, face an opportunity to make their mark against a unit that appears vulnerable.
Wilson and the Raiders’ young pass rushers need strong performances to solidify their roles in Carroll’s defensive scheme. The 49ers’ offensive line struggles create an ideal testing ground for players fighting for roster spots and increased playing time. Success tonight could translate into meaningful snaps when the regular season begins.
This preseason game represents more than preparation for the Raiders. It’s a chance for Carroll to continue installing his winning culture while evaluating the talent that will determine whether Las Vegas can climb out of the division basement and challenge the Chiefs’ dominance in 2025-26.
