The Las Vegas Raiders put on a dominant display of football on Thursday night, leading by 42-0 after two quarters against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Raiders’ offense was on fire, scoring on their first three drives of the game. The Silver and Black got seven on the board thanks to a 12-play, 68-yard drive that was capped off with a Zamir White rushing touchdown. It was the first opening drive touchdown allowed by the Chargers this season. The Raiders’ next possession also finished in the end zone after a four-play, 42-yard drive, and a Tre Tucker touchdown. Wide receiver Jakobi Meyers got in the mix with a 22-yard dot from quarterback Aidan O’Connell on their third drive of the game.
The Raiders’ defense was equally impressive, forcing the Chargers to a three-and-out on their opening drive. This marked the eighth time this season the Raiders have forced a three-and-out on their opponent’s opening drive, which is the most in the NFL. The defense continued to feast as they sacked Chargers quarterback Easton Stick two times and held the offense to 86 total yards in the first half. They also forced three fumbles (one on special teams) while recovering two of them. Malcolm Koonce’s strip sack on Easton Stick was a must-see play.
With Josh Jacobs out, it was all about the next man up mentality for Zamir White as he notched his first career touchdown on the opening drive. He wasn’t the only one to tally a touchdown, as the Raiders’ offense continued to have an explosive first half, finding the end zone two more times. Aidan O’Connell dropped a dime to Tre Tucker for a 30-yard touchdown, which was the first of many.
Overall, the Raiders’ performance was a testament to their hard work and dedication. They will look to carry this momentum into their next game and continue their winning ways.
Who were the key players in this game?
- Justin Herbert: The Chargers’ quarterback had a great game, throwing for 867 yards, 7 touchdowns, and completing 67% of his passes 1.
- Austin Ekeler: The running back had a productive game, finishing with 145 yards from scrimmage, 117 rushing yards on 15 carries, and two touchdowns 1.
- Storm Norton or Trey Pipkins: The right tackle position was a question mark heading into the game, but both Norton and Pipkins played well against the Raiders’ pass rusher, Maxx Crosby 1.
- Derwin James: The safety played a key role in the Chargers’ defense, helping to hold the Raiders to just 86 total yards in the first half 1.
