It was a tough night for Pete Carroll and the Las Vegas Raiders as they faced the Los Angeles Chargers on “Monday Night Football”. The game ended in a 20-9 defeat, marking a challenging milestone for Carroll, who became the first NFL head coach to coach at 74.
The Raiders’ quarterback, Geno Smith, had a rough start. He threw an interception on his first pass, failing to spot Chargers safety Alohi Gilman. Smith’s struggles continued; he threw another interception just before halftime and finished the game with three interceptions total. His performance highlighted his difficulties in prime-time games—he’s now 4-13 in such situations.
Tight end Brock Bowers played despite a knee injury but didn’t make a significant impact, recording only 38 yards on five catches.
On the other side, Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert showcased his skills, connecting with rookie receiver Quentin Johnston for a spectacular 60-yard touchdown. This brought Johnston’s total to three touchdowns in two games, tying him for the most in the league this season.
Understanding why the Chargers emerged victorious is crucial. They played a cleaner game, without turnovers, and their defense kept Smith under pressure. Conversely, losing the turnover battle three to one severely hampered the Raiders’ chances. The Raiders struggled with their rushing game too; running back Ashton Jeanty, despite being their sixth overall pick in 2025, saw limited action with just 43 rushing yards.
The turning point? Herbert’s bomb to Johnston extended the Chargers’ lead, making it difficult for the Raiders to mount a comeback. One highlight of the game included a touchdown by Keenan Allen, who showcased excellent footwork while receiving near the end zone.
As the season progresses, both teams look ahead: the Chargers will host the 1-1 Denver Broncos in Week 3, while the Raiders are set to travel to face the Washington Commanders.
In recent seasons, turnover ratio has proven to be a strong indicator of success in the NFL. A survey showed that teams with a positive turnover differential win about 75% of their games. For the Raiders to succeed, they’ll need to focus on reducing turnovers and maximizing opportunities, especially in crucial moments.
For additional insights on team performative statistics, you can check the NFL’s resources here.
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