Raiders' Josh McDaniels faces scrutiny over late-game decision to opt for field goal

Las Vegas Raiders coach Josh McDaniels faced criticism for opting for a field goal instead of going for a touchdown in a crucial moment of the game. Fans were unhappy with the decision.

In a critical moment during the game, Las Vegas Raiders coach Josh McDaniels faced a tough decision. With just over three minutes left in the fourth quarter, and again less than a minute later, McDaniels had to choose between going for a field goal or taking a risk for a touchdown.

On 4th-and-5, the Raiders lined up to kick a field goal from the Steelers' 29-yard line. If successful, they would still need a touchdown to take the lead. Despite the possibility of going for the end zone, McDaniels decided to take the points, as the team had no timeouts left.

However, the field goal was nullified due to a personal foul called on Steelers defensive end Demarvin Leal for leverage. This penalty gave the Raiders a fresh set of downs.

After one completion for 6 yards by Jimmy Garoppolo, he threw two incomplete passes. On 4th down from the Steelers' 8-yard line, McDaniels once again opted for a field goal. The Raiders were trailing by five points and still needed a touchdown to win.

Fans watching the game were not pleased with McDaniels' decision-making. Boston broadcaster Matt McCarthy criticized McDaniels, stating that he has consistently been exposed without the support of Tom Brady. Others echoed this sentiment, saying that McDaniels' choices were more deserving of criticism than other coaching decisions made during the weekend.

Despite the backlash, McDaniels defended his choices. He argued that going for a field goal did not show a lack of confidence in his offense. He explained that the team would need another possession regardless, and going for the field goal gave them a chance to make it a five-point game and potentially win with a touchdown if they regained possession.

Ultimately, the Raiders' efforts fell short. They were stopped by the Steelers on their next drive, and Garoppolo threw an interception in the final seconds of the game.

In conclusion, McDaniels faced a difficult decision in a crucial moment of the game. While fans and critics may have disagreed with his choices, McDaniels defended his reasoning and believed that going for a field goal gave his team the best opportunity to win.

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