Brief

Raiders’ loss to Patriots highlights running‑game woes ahead of Bills and Rams

Coach Klint Kubiak said the Raiders must fix their running game and address injuries as they prepare for the Bills and Rams.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 12 Oct 2026 07:44:23 GMT

On Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026, the Las Vegas Raiders were beaten 45‑17 by the New England Patriots in Foxborough, a loss that exposed deficiencies in their rushing attack and raised questions about player health ahead of games against the Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Rams, according to the New York Post.

What happened

The Patriots built a 45‑17 lead, forcing the Raiders into a pass‑heavy approach after the team managed only 38 yards on 18 carries. The defeat followed a 45‑17 blowout and left the Raiders with back‑to‑back losses after a 3‑0 start to the season.

What the reports add

The Post noted that head coach Klint Kubiak blamed his own decision to abandon the run game early, saying, “I abandoned the run game too early and didn’t give it a chance to get going.” Defensive end Maxx Crosby added that the whole unit must “look at the mirror” and improve. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, who had been limited in practice by ankle and foot injuries, received clearance to play but admitted he would not be at 100 percent.

What was said

Kubiak told reporters, “We’re not happy with what happened today, and we have to go do something about it. We have to fix it and move on.” Crosby said, “We’re all gonna look at the mirror. It takes every single one of us, we’ve just got to improve from it.” Jeanty said, “Unless I can’t run, jump, cut, I’m playing,” and added, “Football’s a tough game. Like, you’re never going to play feeling one hundred percent.”

How it came about

The Raiders entered the Patriots game after a strong opening stretch but have struggled to establish a consistent ground game. Earlier reports highlighted injuries to the receiving corps and the recent opening of a practice window for wide receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr., underscoring depth concerns that now extend to the backfield.

Key facts

The Raiders lost 45‑17 to the Patriots on Oct. 11, 2026. (nypost.com)
The team rushed for only 38 yards on 18 carries. (nypost.com)
Coach Klint Kubiak said he abandoned the run game too early. (nypost.com)
Rookie Ashton Jeanty was cleared to play despite ankle and foot injuries. (nypost.com)
Defensive end Maxx Crosby called for the team to improve and look at the mirror. (nypost.com)