Pierce: Raiders are 'worst team in football'

Las Vegas Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce didn't pull any punches when describing his team ahead of Friday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

"Let's call a spade a spade. (It's) the best team in football against the worst team in football," Pierce said. "Let's change the narrative. Let's go out there and make it a dogfight. Let's make it ugly. Let's make it scrappy. It's Black Friday."

The Chiefs have won seven of the past eight games against their AFC West rivals. Las Vegas also sports a 2-9 record, which includes just one road win.

However, Pierce remains optimistic.

"Heads are not down. Guys are not packing up the U-Haul," Pierce said. "I'm just thankful for our players being doubted, aligning to the culture. Using that word 'process,' being committed with what we're trying to do with this organization."

Las Vegas will seek to hand the Chiefs its second loss this season with a familiar face under center. Pierce announced Wednesday that Aidan O'Connell will start Friday's matchup after breaking his right thumb against the Los Angeles Rams in October. Desmond Ridder will likely serve as O'Connell's backup with Gardner Minshew out for the rest of the season.

The Raiders will try to halt their seven-game losing skid against the Chiefs on Friday.