Antonio Pierce's chances of becoming the permanent head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders seem to be on the rise after the team's recent successes and some regret from ownership over past coaching decisions. Since being appointed as interim head coach following the firing of Josh McDaniels and Dave Ziegler, Pierce has led the team to four wins out of seven games, including an upset victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day.

According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, Raiders owner Mark Davis has expressed some lingering regret over the decision not to give former special teams coach Rich Bisaccia another year as head coach after he served as the interim coach in 2021. Bisaccia had guided the team to a 7-5 record and their first playoff appearance since 2016. However, the team opted to hire McDaniels for the full-time role instead.

This decision has seemingly made Davis more cautious about making another coaching change, especially after witnessing the success Pierce has had during his interim stint. The 45-year-old ex-Giants linebacker has been praised for his ability to motivate players and understand the dynamics of the locker room, thanks to his nine-year playing career in the NFL.

Pierce himself has made a strong case for being named the permanent head coach. During a press conference, he emphasized the improvement and growth he has seen within the team, as well as the support from the fan base and positive coverage from the media. He also highlighted the importance of winning, stating that the team's record of 4-3 under his leadership speaks for itself.

The Raiders' recent victories, including a dominant performance against the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football, have kept them mathematically in the playoff hunt, albeit with slim odds. With two games remaining in the season against the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos, these matches could serve as final auditions for Pierce to prove his worth as the permanent head coach.

Pierce's coaching debut with the Raiders last year followed four years in various roles at Arizona State University. As a former Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion as a player, he brings a competitive edge to the sidelines. Despite uncertain about his future, Pierce is grateful for the opportunity he has been given and remains focused on maximizing the team's potential.

While nothing is certain, former Giants teammate Michael Strahan has voiced his support for Pierce, stating that there is no doubt in his mind that Pierce should be the Raiders' permanent head coach. As the season nears its end, all eyes will be on the Raiders and their final performances under Pierce's leadership, as ownership weighs their options for the future of the team.