Despite the anticlimactic nature of playing their Las Vegas home opener in an empty Allegiant Stadium, Monday night's game was one to remember for the Raider faithful. In what most believed would be a lopsided showing in prime time, the Raiders came away with a commanding 10-victory over this year's alleged NFC favorite, the New Orleans Saints.
With the Raiders quickly advancing to 2-0, everything on the field is going as planned for the men behind the rebuild: Mark Davis and Mike Mayock. The question is whether their "Death Star" stadium will inherit the iconic Raider fan experience and, more importantly, attract the type of fan base that helps it become a home field advantage by the time that fans are allowed back in stadiums.
Aside from the fact that it’s their first move out of California, it's important to note that the Raiders' new home marks the beginning of an era playing at home indoors. Accustomed to the sunny, open-aired environment of the L.A. Coliseum, and grungy-looking playing field of the Oakland Coliseum, attending home games in a sleek, vibrant dome located at the center of the gambling and entertainment world will feel different for fans. Is it a good fit for a team that carries such deep-rooted GameDay tradition?
Cozy stadium suites and high-end restaurants are made for a different customer than the traditional, "concession-stands"-type feel of the Raiders' prior homes. On the other hand, Vegas is where the pirate costumes aren't just for GameDay, ear drum-bursting loud is the normal sound level and rowdy behavior is embraced. Donned in all silver and black, Allegiant Stadium's design and aesthetics are a deliberate attempt to promote the franchise's identity.
How about Allegiant Stadium's effect on the team? Interestingly enough, the Raiders have not fared well in indoors over the years. In 25 games played in domes since 2002, they've only won seven, scoring an average of 18 points and giving up an average of 27 in those games. Even for a team that hasn't been particularly competitive over the past two decades, these numbers are still below-average performance.
Additionally, the Raiders aren't built like teams that have thrived away from the elements - like the early 2000s Rams, Peyton Manning Colts, Drew Brees Saints and Matt Ryan Falcons. They feature a run-first offense, anchored around second-year running back Josh Jacobs, along with a stingy defense that should give Las Vegas an edge in cold-weather playoff football.
Predicated on a competitive on-the-field product, Raiders management made a bet that the franchise could infuse their Raider-centric traditions and GameDay experiences into the new city and football environment. More importantly, the franchise aims to ultimately develop strong loyalty amongst their new fans, rather than attracting sports bettors just looking for a horse in the race.
Independent of whether Sin City will embrace the Raiders, the high-flying 2020 Raiders have clearly embraced their new home.
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