Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Dennis Allen has been identified as the leading candidate and favorite to become the next head coach of the Oakland Raiders, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. According to Schefter, Raiders GM Reggie McKenzie and the organization have told other candidates -- including Mike Tice, Marty Mornhinweg and Winston Moss -- that they have been eliminated from the running for the position.
Under Allen's direction, the Broncos defense ranked 24th in the league in points allowed per game (24.4), 20th in yards per game (357.8), but 6th overall in third-down percentage allowed (34 percent). The Broncos defense did come up with many big plays throughout the season, and rookie pass rusher Von Miller bloomed under Allen's scheme. The hiring is not officially been announced by the Oakland Raiders at this point, but with other candidates being told they have been eliminated from consideration, it may just be a matter of time now before Allen is in silver and black.
Stay tuned to SB Nation Denver for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Denver Broncos be sure to visit Mile High Report. Visit SB Nation NFL for more news and notes around the league.