Raiders Beat Broncos, Move Within Game of the 1st-Place Chiefs
By NBC Sports Bay Area ••
OAKLAND – The Raiders went five weeks without playing at Oakland Coliseum. They supposedly saved the season with a Week 7 victory over Kansas City, but inconsistency reigned during their time playing away from home.
They got waxed by Buffalo, beat a sorry Miami squad, had a bye and then got embarrassed by New England in a Mexico City “home” game. That got defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. fired and put this season on the brink.
The Raiders have to go on a prolonged winning streak to seriously contend for a playoff spot, even with Kansas City (6-5) in a tailspin.
A streak requires consecutive wins, something the Raiders haven’t done since Week 2. Sunday’s 21-14 victory over the hapless Denver Broncos set up that possibility.
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CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws a pass during the first half of the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
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CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws a pass in the first quarter during the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
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CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Philip Rivers #17 of the Los Angeles Chargers throws a pass against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter of the game at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
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CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Dexter McDonald #23 of the Oakland Raiders tackles Melvin Gordon #28 of the Los Angeles Chargers for a first down during the first quarter of the game at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Keenan Allen #13 of the Los Angeles Chargers makes the catch for a first down as he is being tackled by NaVorro Bowman #53 of the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter of the game at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws a pass during the first half of the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
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CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Melvin Gordon #28 of the Los Angeles Chargers fumbles the ball into the hands of Keenan Allen #13 of the Los Angeles Chargers who runs the ball for a touchdown during the second quarter of the game against the Oakland Raiders at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Keenan Allen #13 of the Los Angeles Chargers makes a catch for a touchdown past TJ Carrie #38 of the Oakland Raiders to take a 20-10 lead during the first half at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws a pass during the first half of the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
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CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders makes the 87 yard catch for a touchdown during the second quarter of the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at StubHub Center on December 31, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 25: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders is sacked by Chris Long #56 of the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter of a game at Lincoln Financial Field on December 25, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 25: DeAndre Washington #33 of the Oakland Raiders attempts to get past Mychal Kendricks #95 of the Philadelphia Eagles after making a catch during the second quarter of a game at Lincoln Financial Field on December 25, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 25: Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders is tackled by Brandon Graham #55 of the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter of a game at Lincoln Financial Field on December 25, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 25: Jay Ajayi #36 of the Philadelphia Eagles runs the ball against Karl Joseph #42 of the Oakland Raiders in the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on December 25, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 25: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders looks to pass against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first quarter of a game at Lincoln Financial Field on December 25, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 10: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders passes during the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 10: Running back Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders carries the ball as outside linebacker Frank Zombo #51 of the Kansas City Chiefs defends during the game at Arrowhead Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jason Hanna/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 10: Tight end Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs powers through the Oakland Raiders defense after making a catch during the game at Arrowhead Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jason Hanna/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 10: Running back Kareem Hunt #27 of the Kansas City Chiefs carries the ball as middle linebacker NaVorro Bowman #53 of the Oakland Raiders defends during the game at Arrowhead Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 10: Quarterback Alex Smith #11 of the Kansas City Chiefs is chased by defensive end Khalil Mack #52 of the Oakland Raiders during the game at Arrowhead Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 10: Cornerback Terrance Mitchell #39 of the Kansas City Chiefs intercepts a pass intended for wide receiver Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders during the game at Arrowhead Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 10: Running back Kareem Hunt #27 of the Kansas City Chiefs carries the ball as linebacker Nicholas Morrow #50 of the Oakland Raiders defends during the game at Arrowhead Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 10: Running back DeAndre Washington #33 of the Oakland Raiders carries the ball during the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jason Hanna/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 10: Running back Kareem Hunt #27 of the Kansas City Chiefs carries the ball during the game against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 10: Cornerback Terrance Mitchell #39 of the Kansas City Chiefs breaks up a pass intended for wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson #84 of the Oakland Raiders during the game at Arrowhead Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jason Hanna/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 03: Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders runs for a 51-yard touchdown against the New York Giants during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 3, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 03: Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders scores on a 51-yard run against the New York Giants during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 3, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 03: Giorgio Tavecchio #2 of the Oakland Raiders kicks an extra point against the New York Giants during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 3, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 03: Geno Smith #3 of the New York Giants is stripped of the ball by Bruce Irvin #51 of the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 3, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 03: Jared Cook #87 of the Oakland Raiders is upended by Calvin Munson #46 of the New York Giants during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 3, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 03: Evan Engram #88 of the New York Giantsruns after a catch against the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 3, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 03: Sterling Shepard #87 of the New York Giants makes a catch at the one-yard line against the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 3, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 03: Khalil Mack #52 of the Oakland Raiders strips Geno Smith #3 of the New York Giants of the ball for a turnover during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 3, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders is walked off the field by Cordarrelle Patterson #84 after being ejected for fighting with Aqib Talib #21 of the Denver Broncos during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 26, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders has his helmet pulled off during a fight with Aqib Talib #21 of the Denver Broncos in their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 26, 2017 in Oakland, California. Both players were ejected from the game. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Paxton Lynch #12 of the Denver Broncos is sacked by Denico Autry #96 of the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 26, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders rushes with the ball against the Denver Broncos during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 26, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders dives into the end zone for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 26, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders fights with Aqib Talib #21 of the Denver Broncos in their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 26, 2017 in Oakland, California. Both players were ejected from the game. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders looks to pass against the Denver Broncos during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 26, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 19: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots throws a pass against the Oakland Raiders during the first half at Estadio Azteca on November 19, 2017 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 19: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders is tackled by Malcolm Butler #21 of the New England Patriots during the first half at Estadio Azteca on November 19, 2017 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 19: Dion Lewis #33 of the New England Patriots splits a tackle from Karl Joseph #42 and Reggie Nelson #27 of the Oakland Raiders during the first half at Estadio Azteca on November 19, 2017 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 19: Seth Roberts #10 of the Oakland Raiders attempts to break a tackle from Jonathan Jones #31 of the New England Patriots during the first half at Estadio Azteca on November 19, 2017 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 19: Dwayne Allen #83 of the New England Patriots runs with the ball after a reception against the Oakland Raiders during the second half at Estadio Azteca on November 19, 2017 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 19: Trey Flowers #98 and David Harris #45 of the New England Patriots tackle Seth Roberts #10 of the Oakland Raiders during the second half at Estadio Azteca on November 19, 2017 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 19: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders reacts against the New England Patriots during the second half at Estadio Azteca on November 19, 2017 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 29: Logan Thomas #82 of the Buffalo Bills runs with the ball as Shalom Luani #26 of the Oakland Raiders, NaVorro Bowman #53 of the Oakland Raiders, and Justin Ellis #78 of the Oakland Raiders attempt to tackle him during the first quarter of an NFL game on October 29, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
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ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 29: DeAndre Washington #33 of the Oakland Raiders runs with the ball as Matt Milano #58 of the Buffalo Bills attempts to tackle him during the first quarter of an NFL game on October 29, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
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ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 29: Leonard Johnson #24 of the Buffalo Bills forces a fumble while tackling DeAndre Washington #33 of the Oakland Raiders during the second quarter of an NFL game on October 29, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
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ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 29: Tyrod Taylor #5 of the Buffalo Bills slides as NaVorro Bowman #53 of the Oakland Raiders and Shilique Calhoun #91 of the Oakland Raiders attempt to tackle him during the second quarter of an NFL game on October 29, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
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ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 29: Mike Tolbert #35 of the Buffalo Bills runs the ball as Shalom Luani #26 of the Oakland Raiders and Mario Edwards #97 of the Oakland Raiders attempt to tackle him during the first quarter of an NFL game on October 29, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
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ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 29: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders runs the ball as Shareece Wright #20 of the Buffalo Bills attempts to tackle him during the first quarter of an NFL game on October 29, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
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ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 29: Jamize Olawale #49 of the Oakland Raiders is tackled by Cedric Thornton #91 of the Buffalo Bills and Preston Brown #52 of the Buffalo Bills as he scores a touchdown during the first quarter of an NFL game against the Buffalo Bills on October 29, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
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ORCHARD PARK, NY - OCTOBER 29: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders runs the ball as Leonard Johnson #24 of the Buffalo Bills attempts to tackle him during the first quarter of an NFL game on October 29, 2017 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 19: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after a Giorgio Tavecchio #2 extra point is good to defeat the Kansas City Chiefs 31-30 in their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 19, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 19: Jared Cook #87 of the Oakland Raiders makes a catch at the one-yard line of the Kansas City Chiefs in the final moments of their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 19, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 19: NaVorro Bowman #53 of the Oakland Raiders reacts during their game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 19, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 19: Alex Smith #11 of the Kansas City Chiefs is rushed by Khalil Mack #52 of the Oakland Raiders at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 19, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 19: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders is pushed out of bounds by Phillip Gaines #23 of the Kansas City Chiefs during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 19, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 19: DeAndre Washington #33 of the Oakland Raiders scores on a four-yard run against the Kansas City Chiefs during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 19, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 19: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders gets past Terrance Mitchell #39 of the Kansas City Chiefs to score a touchdown at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 19, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 15: Bruce Irvin #51 of the Oakland Raiders reacts to a play against the Los Angeles Chargers during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 15, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 15: DeAndre Washington #33 of the Oakland Raiders is tackled by his facemask by Darius Philon #93 of the Los Angeles Chargers during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 15, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 15: Hayes Pullard III #50 of the Los Angeles Chargers intercepts a ball tipped by Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 15, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Don Feria/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 15: Head coach Jack Del Rio of the Oakland Raiders looks on during their NFL game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 15, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Don Feria/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 15: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders reacts to a play during their NFL game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 15, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Don Feria/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 15: Melvin Gordon #28 of the Los Angeles Chargers dives for a 1-yard touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 15, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 08: EJ Manuel #3 of the Oakland Raiders slides after scambling with the ball against the Baltimore Ravens during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 8, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 08: Head coach Jack Del Rio of the Oakland Raiders looks on against the Baltimore Ravens during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 8, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 08: Seth Roberts #10 of the Oakland Raiders runs after a catch against the Baltimore Ravens during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 8, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 08: Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates with Michael Crabtree #15 after scoring in the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 8, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 08: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders catches a 41-yard touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 8, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 1: Strong safety Justin Simmons #31 of the Denver Broncos intercepts a deep pass intended for wide receiver Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders as free safety Bradley Roby #29 covers the play late in the fourth quarter of a game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 1: Head coach Jack Del Rio of the Oakland Raiders has a word with quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders before Carr came out of the game with an injury in the third quarter of a game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 1: Quarterback Trevor Siemian #13 of the Denver Broncos is sacked by defensive end Mario Edwards #97 of the Oakland Raiders in the first quarter of a game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 1: Running back Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders carries the ball in the first quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 1: Tight end A.J. Derby #83 of the Denver Broncos crosses the goal line for a touchdown in the first quarter of a game against the Oakland Raiders at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 1: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 hands off to running back Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders in the first quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 1: Wide receiver Johnny Holton #16 of the Oakland Raiders, under coverage by free safety Darian Stewart #26 of the Denver Broncos, looks over his shoulder before making a catch that would go for a 64-yard touchdown in the second quarter of a game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 1: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders drops back to pass from his own end zone in the second quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 24: Oakland Raiders players sit during the national anthem before they take on the Washington Redskins at FedExField on September 24, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 24: Oakland Raiders players sit during the national anthem before they take on the Washington Redskins at FedExField on September 24, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 24: Tight end Vernon Davis #85 of the Washington Redskins scores a touchdown as cornerback Sean Smith #21 of the Oakland Raiders tries to stop him in the second quarter at FedExField on September 24, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 24: Wide receiver Josh Doctson #18 of the Washington Redskins makes a catch over cornerback David Amerson #29 of the Oakland Raiders in the third quarter at FedExField on September 24, 2017 in Landover, Maryland (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 24: Tight end Jared Cook #87 of the Oakland Raiders scores a touchdown over strong safety Deshazor Everett #22 of the Washington Redskins in the third quarter at FedExField on September 24, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 24: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders is taken down by tight end Vernon Davis #85 of the Washington Redskins in the third quarter at FedExField on September 24, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 24: Wide receiver Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raider tires to match a catch over strong safety Montae Nicholson #35 of the Washington Redskins in the third quarter at FedExField on September 4, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 24: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders is sacked by outside linebacker Preston Smith #94 of the Washington Redskins during the first half at FedExField on September 24, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders breaks a tackle and rushes for a thirteen yard gain against the New York Jets during the first quarter of their NFL football game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders gets past Juston Burris #32 and Jamal Adams #33 of the New York Jets to score a touchdown at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Mario Edwards #97 of the Oakland Raiders tackles Josh McCown #15 of the New York Jets at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders dances on the sideline during their win over the New York Jets at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates with Marshall Newhouse #73 and he Crabtree scored a touchdown against the New York Jets at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders looks to pass the ball against the New York Jets at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders runs with the ball against the New York Jets at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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NASHVILLE, TN- SEPTEMBER 10: Running Back Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders carries the ball against the Tennessee Titans in the first quarter against at Nissan Stadium on September 10, 2017 In Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
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NASHVILLE, TN- SEPTEMBER 10: Running back Marshawn Lynch #24 of the Oakland Raiders stiff arms linebacker Jayon Brown #55 of the Tennessee Titans in the first half at Nissan Stadium on September 10, 2017 In Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) )
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NASHVILLE, TN- SEPTEMBER 10: Wide receiver Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders runs the ball against the Tennessee Titans game at Nissan Stadium on September 10, 2017 In Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) )
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NASHVILLE, TN- SEPTEMBER 10: Safety Karl Joseph #42 of the Oakland Raiders deflects a pass intended for wide receiver Eric Decker #87 of the Tennessee Titans in the first half at Nissan Stadium on September 10, 2017 In Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) )
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NASHVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 10: Quarterback Marcus Mariota #8 of the Tennessee Titans rolls out away from Justin Ellis #78 of the Oakland Raiders during the first half at Nissan Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
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NASHVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 10: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders drops back to throw a pass against the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Nissan Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
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NASHVILLE, TN- SEPTEMBER 10: Running back Demarco Murray #29 of the Tennessee Titans hurdles corner back David Amerson #29 of the Oakland Raiders in the second half at Nissan Stadium on September 10, 2017 In Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) )
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NASHVILLE, TN- SEPTEMBER 10: Wide receiver Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders makes a catch against the Tennessee Titans in the second half at Nissan Stadium on September 10, 2017 In Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) )
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NASHVILLE, TN- SEPTEMBER 10: Kicker Giorgio Tavecchio #2 of the Oakland Raiders reacts after making a field goal against the Tennessee Titans in the second half at Nissan Stadium on September 10, 2017 In Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) )
This was a weird one. A massive brawl started when Aqib Talib ripped Michael Crabtree’s chain off for a second straight season. (More on that here). Then the Raiders ended a 10-game interception drought when NaVorro Bowman picked Paxton Lynch in the end zone.
And, maybe in the greatest oddity of all, the Raiders defense was stout. The Silver and Black allowed just 219 yards – the Broncos had 66 yards through three quarters – and took a shutout into the fourth quarter. They had five sacks, creating pressure with some confusing looks designed by new play caller John Pagano.
This performance should be graded in context. The Broncos offense is in a sorry state. Paxton Lynch’s first start of the year was dreadful. Trevor Siemian through two late touchdowns to make it close, a concerning fourth-quarter turn.
But…Pagano had a good day calling plays, and definitely gives the pass rush some spice. He disguises rushers well, and brings them from odd places. He got the Raiders playing better in a hurry, an important step as he continues to put his stamp on the defense without wholesale changes.
But…can improved play be sustained? The New York Giants come to town next week. That’s a winnable game to be sure. Big Blue’s in shambles, too.
There’s a game at Kansas City the following week that could be worth a ton. Time will tell in that regard.
The Raiders offense must also get going down the stretch, and steady running will key that effort. Marshawn Lynch had his third straight solid game, with 67 yards and a touchdown on a season-high 26 carries. He also had three catches for 44 yards to pace the offense. The running game as a whole hit triple digits, with 104 yards. They weren’t terribly efficient (2.8 yards per carry), but stuck with it and controlled the clock.
The Raiders can’t change the games on their schedule, so they must build momentum and confidence during this competitive lull to prepare for a tough final stretch.
Cooper knocked out: The Raiders lost their most talented receiver in the first half, when Amari Cooper took a violent, albeit clean, shot from Broncos free safety Darian Stewart.
Both guys braced for impact. Cooper ducked his head and body down. Stewart’s should landed on Cooper’s helmet/neck area, knocking No. 89 out on a pass caught across the middle.
Cooper was unconscious on the field for an extended stretch, but waved off the cart and walked off the field with limited assistance. He was ruled out with a concussion.
Interception drought ends:The Raiders went 10-plus games without an interception. They finally got one early in the second quarter. In the end zone, no less.
Paxton Lynch’s pass was tipped by safety Reggie Nelson and caught by Bowman while laying on the ground. The Raiders turned that into points, with an eight-play, 80-yard drive finished with a nine-yard touchdown catch by Amari Cooper.
