Raiders report card: Offense sputters in loss to Chargers
Summary
The Raiders fell 20-9 to the Los Angeles Chargers at Allegiant Stadium on Monday Night Football. Offence was the clear problem — long plays were rare, the run game stalled and Geno Smith threw three interceptions while struggling on throws of 10+ yards. The offensive line, missing guard Jackson Powers-Johnson (concussion), couldn’t open running lanes or protect consistently. Rookie Ashton Jeanty managed 43 yards on 11 carries and the team finished with just 68 rushing yards.
Defence did enough to keep the game within reach early but faded as the match progressed; Jonah Laulu had two sacks while Maxx Crosby was largely contained. Special teams were a bright spot as Daniel Carlson hit three field goals. Coach Pete Carroll’s staff received criticism for game management and the inability to establish a rushing attack.
Key Points
- Final score: Chargers 20, Raiders 9 — Raiders failed to score a touchdown at home.
- Offence graded D: Geno Smith 24-of-43, 180 yards, 3 interceptions; 0-for-10 on throws 10+ yards.
- Running game stalled — Ashton Jeanty 43 yards on 11 carries; team rushed for 68 yards total; O-line hampered by Jackson Powers-Johnson’s absence.
- Defence graded C: produced one turnover; Jonah Laulu had two sacks; Maxx Crosby was mostly neutralised; Justin Herbert threw for 242 yards and 2 TDs.
- Special teams graded B: Daniel Carlson converted FGs from 54, 40 and 37 yards; AJ Cole punted well (57-yard average on two punts).
- Coaching graded C: Pete Carroll and staff were outcoached by Jim Harbaugh; urgent need to fix run scheme and offensive-line play.
Why should I read this
Short version: if you care about the Raiders, this tells you exactly why the team lost without you having to watch the full game. The offence looks broken in key areas — no chunk plays, no run game, and Geno getting picked — so this is the quick checklist of what needs fixing before Week 3.
