The Raiders spent more time than usual playing a 3-4 defense in last Sunday’s 27-20 victory over Cleveland. That helped them produce five sacks, and it would seem to highlight the strengths of swift pass rushers Aldon Smith and Khalil Mack.
Defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. didn’t reveal whether the Raiders plan to use the 3-4 more often in the weeks ahead. But he offered a none-too-subtle hint when he was asked if Smith, specifically, is more comfortable with his role in the alignment.
“We hope so,” Norton said. “Aldon is a really good football player, and we want to make him happy.