The Raiders won their first two games with Pierce as the interim head coach. That wasn't coincidence or merely the product of Las Vegas playing inconsistent teams in the New England Patriots and New York Giants.

"How can you not feel that energy," NFL Network's Ian Rapoport said on NFL Gameday. "Certainly, that is something that Raider Nation, and specifically, owner Mark Davis, has noticed."

Miami represented the first playoff-caliber opponent that the Raiders have faced since Pierce took over. While Las Vegas didn't get the win, it did put up a strong fight and show that it might not get embarrassed if it sneaks into the postseason.

The Dolphins are talented, especially offensively, and playing in Miami can be difficult for a West Coast team like Las Vegas. Pierce has done an incredible job of making the Raiders a tough out, and his efforts are going to get him real consideration for the full-time head-coaching job in the offseason.