Brief

Chiefs coordinator Bieniemy likens 2026 Raiders to historic Oakland team

Bieniemy’s comment comes as the Raiders start the season 3‑0 under new head coach Klint Kubiak.

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 02 Oct 2026 08:20:57 GMT

Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy told a Thursday press conference that the 2026 Las Vegas Raiders "remind him of the Oakland Raiders," after receiving a text from former AFC West star Neil Smith.

Bieniemy quoted Smith’s message, which read, "It's Oakland Raiders week," and added, "You know what, that's exactly right, okay? It is Raiders week." The comment highlights the Raiders’ early success – a 3‑0 start, the first such streak since 2021, and a potent offense averaging 29.3 points per game, tied with the Chiefs and Cowboys.

Bieniemy noted his long involvement in the Chiefs‑Raiders rivalry, recalling Kansas City’s 17‑3 record against the Raiders during his tenure as a running backs coach and offensive coordinator from 2013‑2022. He contrasted that with the Raiders’ storied past, noting the franchise’s decline after a Super Bowl loss and recent instability – 13 head coaches and 22 starting quarterbacks since 2004.

Current Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins is leading the offense with a 67.8% completion rate, 661 yards, nine touchdowns and three interceptions, while the defense has improved to allow just 18 points per game, down from 25.4 last season.

Key facts

Eric Bieniemy said the 2026 Raiders remind him of the historic Oakland Raiders. (nypost.com)
Neil Smith texted Bieniemy with "It's Oakland Raiders week". (nypost.com)
The Raiders are 3‑0 to start the 2026 season, averaging 29.3 points per game. (nypost.com)
Kirk Cousins has a 67.8% completion rate, 661 yards, nine TDs and three INTs. (nypost.com)
Raiders defense now allows 18 points per game, improved from 25.4 last season. (nypost.com)