After making many changes to their roster, the Las Vegas Raiders were expecting an improved defense at the start of the season. 

Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham always knew the defense's potential, but says it is up to the players to determine how good they can be. 

"Well, it starts with what they want," Graham said. "I'm always really amazed at these young men in terms of the focus they must have had since they were young kids to say I'm going to be a college athlete, I'm going to try to be a professional athlete. Very few of them you run into don't have the desire to be great."

Graham challenged the Raiders' defense to push themselves past the improvement they've displayed so far. Las Vegas' defense has already surpassed many of the expectations that were placed upon them entering the season.

"I said, 'Llet's do it collectively as a defense,'" Graham said. "'Let's not just be good and give people pats on the back. Let's try to be a great defense.' And the challenge there was really because that's what they want.

"So, what does that mean? Great defenses, they take the ball away from the offense, they stop the run, they're able to play disciplined pass coverage, and those are all the things that we're trying to do as a defense, so that was the challenge." 

Las Vegas Raiders Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham has challenged the defense to continue to improve.

© Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Graham shared his thoughts on the defense's progression over the season.

"I just think when you look at the whole season, it's all about evolving and getting better during the season," Graham said. "I don't think it's any different for other defenses throughout the league. So, did it click? You'll have to ask them. I just know that there's more tape on the opponents now, so you've got an idea of what they're going to do.

"Guys have spent more time communicating with one another, spending time with each other on the practice field, so naturally, you're going to see some improvement there, but did it all of a sudden click. We played some good defense early in the season, too."

The Minnesota Vikings are the another opportunity for the Raiders' defense to prove they have the ability to answer the challenge presented to them by Graham and the Raiders coaching staff. 

The Silver and Black will return home to Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas to take on the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, December 10, at 4:05 p.m. EST/1:05 p.m. PST.

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