Raiders Hold On to Beat Chargers, Tie For First in West
By CSN Bay Area ••
OAKLAND – The Raiders spent the season’s first quarter finishing well, with comebacks and defensive stands a regular feature while amassing a 3-1 record.
The San Diego Chargers, by contrast, were kings of collapse. They led at the two-minute warning four times and ended up 1-3.
Sometimes trends change. On Sunday, they stayed exactly the same.
The Chargers were on the comeback trail late in this one but botched a game-tying field goal attempt. The Raiders retained their slim lead and secured a 34-31 victory at Oakland Coliseum.
Missed Raiders opportunities, especially in the first half, kept this game close. Teams with a better roster and a plus-3 turnover ratio, as the Raiders accomplished Sunday, generally win blowouts.
That wasn’t the case here.
This one hung in the balance until the end. Only a disastrous field goal attempt tilted things back in the Raiders’ direction.
They’re now 4-1. That win, in combination with a Denver loss, puts them in a first-place tie in the AFC West through five games.
The Raiders play Kansas City next week at Oakland Coliseum.
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HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 07: Brock Osweiler #17 of the Houston Texans calls a play at the line of scrimmage during the first quarter against the Oakland Raiders in their AFC Wild Card game at NRG Stadium on January 7, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 07: Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders carries the ball during the second quarter of the AFC Wild Card game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on January 7, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 07: Clive Walford #88 of the Oakland Raiders is tackled after catching a pass during the second quarter of the AFC Wild Card game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on January 7, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 07: Johnathan Joseph #24 of the Houston Texans defends a pass to Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders during the first half of their AFC Wild Card game at NRG Stadium on January 7, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 07: Brock Osweiler #17 of the Houston Texans carries the ball during the first half of the AFC Wild Card game against the Oakland Raiders at NRG Stadium on January 7, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - JANUARY 07: DeAndre Hopkins #10 of the Houston Texans catches a pass from Brock Osweiler #17 along the sideline during the first half of the AFC Wild Card game against the Oakland Raiders at NRG Stadium on January 7, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - JANUARY 1: Outside linebacker Shane Ray #56 of the Denver Broncos sacks quarterback Connor Cook #8 of the Oakland Raiders and fumbles the ball in the third quarter of the game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on January 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - JANUARY 1: Quarterback Matt McGloin #14 of the Oakland Raiders with his arms outstretched in the first quarter of the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on January 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - JANUARY 1: Quarterback Matt McGloin #14 of the Oakland Raiders walks with his helmet off after being tackled in the second quarter of the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on January 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - JANUARY 1: Defensive end Jared Crick #93 of the Denver Broncos was called for a penalty on this play while tackling quarterback Matt McGloin #14 of the Oakland Raiders in the second quarter of the game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on January 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - JANUARY 1: Head coach Jack Del Rio of the Oakland Raiders argues with a referee in the second quarter of the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on January 1, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 18: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders is sacked for a six yard loss by Joey Bosa #99 of the San Diego Chargers during the second quarter at Qualcomm Stadium on December 18, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 18: DeAndre Washington #33 of the Oakland Raiders turns up field after his catch in front of Jahleel Addae #37 of the San Diego Chargers during the second quarter at Qualcomm Stadium on December 18, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 18: Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders fumbles the ball during the first quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on December 18, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 18: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders talks with head coach Jack Del Rio during a video replay challenge resulting in a touchdown to Michael Crabtree #15 during the second quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on December 18, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 18: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders scrambles out of the pocket for a first down during the first quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on December 18, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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SAN DIEGO, CA - DECEMBER 18: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws from the pocket during his team's game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on December 18, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Donald Miralle/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 8: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws a pass against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium during the first quarter of the game on December 8, 2016 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 8: Wide receiver Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders loses the ball after being tackled by strong safety Eric Berry #29 of the Kansas City Chiefs while Ramik Wilson #53 begins to cover the ball on an apparent fumble that would be overturned after a challenge at Arrowhead Stadium during the first quarter of the game on December 8, 2016 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 8: Wide receiver Tyreek Hill #10 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs in to the end zone on a punt return for a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium during the second quarter of the game on December 8, 2016 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 8: Wide receiver Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders is tackled on a reception attempt by strong safety Eric Berry #29 of the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium during the first quarter of the game on December 8, 2016 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 8: Quarterback Alex Smith #11 of the Kansas City Chiefs throws a pass against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium during the first quarter of the game on December 8, 2016 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 04: Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders dives into the endzone for a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during their NFL game at Oakland Alameda Coliseum on December 4, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders runs for a 37-yard touchdown during their NFL game against the Buffalo Bills at Oakland Alameda Coliseum on December 4, 2016 in Oakland, California.
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 04: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after a three-yard touchdown pass against the Buffalo Bills during their NFL game at Oakland Alameda Coliseum on December 4, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 04: Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders stiff-arms James Ihedigbo #27 of the Buffalo Bills during their NFL game at Oakland Alameda Coliseum on December 4, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 04: Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during their NFL game at Oakland Alameda Coliseum on December 4, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders makes a catch against the Carolina Panthers during their NFL game on November 27, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Sebastian Janikowski #11 of the Oakland Raiders kicks the 23-yard game winning field goal against the Carolina Panthers during their NFL game on November 27, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after a touchdown by Latavius Murray #28 against the Carolina Panthers during their NFL game on November 27, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers reacts after a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game on November 27, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Khalil Mack #52 of the Oakland Raiders scores after intercepting Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers in the second quarter of their NFL game on November 27, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers is driven to the ground by Stacy McGee #92 of the Oakland Raiders who was flagged for a Roughing the Passer penalty on the play in their NFL game on November 27, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Seth Roberts #10 of the Oakland Raiders catches a touchdown in the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers during their NFL game on November 27, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 21: Jalen Richard #30 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter against the Houston Texans at Estadio Azteca on November 21, 2016 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 21: Stephen Anderson #89 of the Houston Texans is tackled by Reggie Nelson #27 of the Oakland Raiders after catching a pass in their game at Estadio Azteca on November 21, 2016 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 21: Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders is tackled by Kareem Jackson #25 of the Houston Texans in their game at Estadio Azteca on November 21, 2016 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 21: Clive Walford #88 catches a pass from Derek Carr #4 (not pictured) of the Oakland Raiders in the game against the Houston Texans at Estadio Azteca on November 21, 2016 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 21: Oakland Raiders fans are seen in attendance prior to the game against the Houston Texans at Estadio Azteca on November 21, 2016 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - NOVEMBER 21: A general view of the field prior to the game between the Houston Texans and Oakland Raiders at Estadio Azteca on November 21, 2016 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 06: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates a touchdown during the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 6, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 06: Sebastian Janikowski #11 of the Oakland Raiders kicks a field goal during the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on November 6, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 09: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders scores a 64-yard touchdown against the San Diego Chargers during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 9, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SAN DIEGO, CA - OCTOBER 13: Demaryius Thomas #88 of the Denver Broncos runs the ball during the first half of a game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on October 13, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 30: Quarterback Trevor Siemian #13 of the Denver Broncos warms up before the game against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 30, 2016 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 30: Running back Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders is brought down by middle linebacker Kwon Alexander #58 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the third quarter at Raymond James Stadium on October 30, 2016 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Joseph Garnett Jr. /Getty Images)
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TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 30: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders fumbles the ball as he is knocked down by defensive end Noah Spence #57 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium on October 30, 2016 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Joseph Garnett Jr. /Getty Images)
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TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 30: Tackle Donald Penn #72 of the Oakland Raiders catches a touchdown pass in the third quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to tie the game at 10-10 at Raymond James Stadium on October 30, 2016 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Joseph Garnett Jr. /Getty Images)
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TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 30: Wide receiver Russell Shepard #89 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers pulls in the teams first touchdown as cornerback D.J. Hayden #25 of the Oakland Raiders defends during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium on October 30, 2016 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Joseph Garnett Jr. /Getty Images)
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TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 30: Wide receiver Russell Shepard #89 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hauls in a 19 yard pass from quarterback Jameis Winston in front of cornerback D.J. Hayden #25 of the Oakland Raiders for the touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL game on October 30, 2016 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
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JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 23: Blake Bortles #5 of the Jacksonville Jaguars runs for yardage as D.J. Hayden #25 of the Oakland Raiders pursues during the game at EverBank Field on October 23, 2016 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
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JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 23: Seth Roberts #10 of the Oakland Raiders runs for yardage after catching a pass against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the game at EverBank Field on October 23, 2016 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
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JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 23: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders gets set to pass against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the game at EverBank Field on October 23, 2016 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
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JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 23: Blake Bortles #5 of the Jacksonville Jaguars is tackled by Bruce Irvinnof the Oakland Raiders during the game at EverBank Field on October 23, 2016 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Rob Foldy/Getty Images)
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JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 23: Blake Bortles #5 of the Jacksonville Jaguars is tackled by Bruce Irvin #51 of the Oakland Raiders during the game at EverBank Field on October 23, 2016 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
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JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 23: Derek Carr #4 celebrates with Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders after a touchdown during the second quarter of the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field on October 23, 2016 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Rob Foldy/Getty Images)
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JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 23: David Amerson #29 of the Oakland Raiders attempts to make an interception in front of Marqise Lee #11 of the Jacksonville Jaguars during the game at EverBank Field on October 23, 2016 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
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JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 23: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders scores a touchdown in front of Prince Amukamara #21 of the Jacksonville Jaguars during the game at EverBank Field on October 23, 2016 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Rob Foldy/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 16: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after a three-yard touchdown with Andre Holmes #18 during their NFL game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 16, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 16: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders makes a catch against the Kansas City Chiefs during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 16, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 16: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders looks to pass against the Kansas City Chiefs during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 16, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 16: Spencer Ware #32 of the Kansas City Chiefs scores on a two-yard rush against the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 16, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 16: DeAndre Washington #33 of the Oakland Raiders rushes with the ball against the Kansas City Chiefs during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 16, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 16: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders scrambles with the ball against the Kansas City Chiefs during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 16, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 16: Spencer Ware #32 of the Kansas City Chiefs rushes for 45-yards to the Oakland Raiders three-yard line during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 16, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - NOVEMBER 01: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders runs for a 36-yard touchdown reception against the New York Jets during their NFL game at O.co Coliseum on November 1, 2015 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders looks to pass against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 02: Alex Smith #11 of the Kansas City Chiefs warms up before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on October 2, 2016 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
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KANSAS CITY, MO - SEPTEMBER 25: Tight end Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates in the end zone after scoring the games first touchdown agains the New York Jets at Arrowhead Stadium during the first quarter of the game on September 25, 2016 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 09: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates with Amari Cooper #89 after a scoring on a two-point conversion against the San Diego Chargers during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 9, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 09: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders scores a 64-yard touchdown against the San Diego Chargers during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 9, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 09: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates with Amari Cooper #89 after a scoring on a two-point conversion against the San Diego Chargers during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 9, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - OCTOBER 09: Tyrell Williams #16 of the San Diego Chargers is tackled after a catch against the Oakland Raiders during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on October 9, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders scores a touchdown during the first half of a game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Amari Cooper #89 of the Oakland Raiders catches a ball as Jairus Byrd #31 of the New Orleans Saints defends during the first half of a game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass against the New Orleans Saints during the fourth quarter at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after completing a two-point conversion to take the lead during the second half of a game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders catches a pass over Delvin Breaux #40 of the New Orleans Saints completing a two-point conversion to take the lead late in the second half of a game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders catches a pass over Delvin Breaux #40 of the New Orleans Saints completing a two-point conversion to take the lead late in the second half of a game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Head coach Jack Del Rio of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after his team defeated the New Orleans Saints 35-34 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Jamize Olawale #49 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates a touchdown during the second half of a game against against the New Orleans Saints the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: SaQwan Edwards #30 of the Oakland Raiders rushes for 75-yard touchdown during the second half of a game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Jamize Olawale #49 of the Oakland Raiders scores a touchdown during the second half of a game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws the ball during the second half of a game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 11: Head coach Jack Del Rio of the Oakland Raiders reacts during the first half of a game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on September 11, 2016 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: An Oakland Raiders fan is seen in the stands during their NFL game against the Atlanta Falcons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders looks to pass against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: Clive Walford #88 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates with Derek Carr #4 after a 31-yard touchdown catch against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after a two-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders rushes with the ball against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: Jamize Olawale #49 of the Oakland Raiders rusn with the ball against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: DeAndre Washington #33 of the Oakland Raiders rushes against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after a two-yard touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders looks on as the officials huddle after a play during their NFL game against the Atlanta Falcons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: The Raiderettes perform during the NFL game between the Oakland Raiders and the Atlanta Falcons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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NASHVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 25: Seth Roberts #10 of the Oakland Raiders outruns Daimion Stafford #24 of the Tennessee Titans to the end zone for a touchdown at Nissan Stadium on September 25, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
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NASHVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 25: Latavius Murray #28 of the Oakland Raiders rushes against Brice McCain #23 of the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Nissan Stadium on September 25, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
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NASHVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 25: Bruce Irvin #51 of the Oakland Raiders causes quarterback Marcus Mariota #8 of the Tennessee Titans to fumble during the first half at Nissan Stadium on September 25, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
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BALTIMORE, MD - OCTOBER 2: Reggie Nelson #27 of the Oakland Raiders tackles Terrance West #28 of the Baltimore Ravens in the first quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
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BALTIMORE, MD - OCTOBER 2: Seth Roberts #10 of the Oakland Raiders scores a touchdown in the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Larry French/Getty Images)
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BALTIMORE, MD - OCTOBER 2: Derek Carr #4 of the Oakland Raiders throws a pass in the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
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BALTIMORE, MD - OCTOBER 2: Lardarius Webb #21 of the Baltimore Ravens tackles Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders in the second quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Larry French/Getty Images)
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BALTIMORE, MD - OCTOBER 2: Terrance West #28 of the Baltimore Ravens fumbles after being hit by Cory James #57 and Karl Joseph #42 of the Oakland Raiders in the third quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
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BALTIMORE, MD - OCTOBER 2: Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Larry French/Getty Images)
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BALTIMORE, MD - OCTOBER 2: Derek Carr #4 and Michael Crabtree #15 of the Oakland Raiders celebrate after scoring a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
A low-scoring affair turned into an offensive showcase in the second half. San Diego scored quickly on its opening series a four-play drive sparked by a long catch-and-run by tight end Hunter Henry. Melvin Gordon finished that series with a touchdown catch.
The Raiders responded with a touchdown. The Chargers fired back with another TD, and the home team responded with a field goal.
Then the Raiders created separation. Head coach Jack Del Rio went for it on 4th-and-2 and Michael Crabtree caught a touchdown. Then the Raiders forced a three-and-out, San Diego’s punter shanked one and Jamize Olawale punched it in from a yard out to give his Raiders a 10-point lead.
The Raiders forced three turnovers in the first half, yet went into the locker room down 10-9. They failed to score touchdowns on two red-zone trips, missing opportunities to capitalize on real chances to go up big in this game.
Sebastian Janikowksi missed from 50 yards out but converted from 56 to end an awkward first half where the Raiders led most every statistical category save the total points.
The biggest disappointment came when a first quarter drive that lasted 16 plays and a full eight minutes ended outside the end zone.
Carr didn’t look right early on, yet hit Amari Cooper twice in the end zone on passes ruled incomplete with the receiver failing to get both feet in bounds.
Filling in or Murray: Latavius Murray was ruled out with a toe injury, leaving rookie runners Jalen Richard and DeAndre Washington to shoulder the load. The Raiders split carries early on, and planned to go with a hot hand. They got some important plays from those guys and fullback Jamize Olawale, who had a 17-yard run.
Washington had 23 yards on nine carries, and had five receptions for 29 more yards. Richard was also a dual threat, with eight carries for 31 yards and six receptions for 66 yards.
The Raiders had 89 rushing yards in total, and missed their primary back in key moments.
Sitting it out: The Raiders were thin at a few spots, including linebacker and tight end. They had to get creative making up for Lee Smith’s absence, using offensive lineman Denver Kirkland as an eligible receiver to add heft on rushing downs.
Perry Riley Jr. started next to Cory James at linebacker over Malcolm Smith, who was active – the Raiders had more injuries than allowed on the inactive list – but not ready to play.
Vadal Alexander started his second straight game. Austin Howard was active for the first time since Week 2 but still working his way back to health. Menelik Watson and Matt McCants remain out with injury.
Latavius Murray was ruled out earlier in the week with a toe injury.
What’s next: The Raiders stay home and in the division, with a Week 6 showdown with the Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland Coliseum. That should be a good test of teams expecting to battle for a playoff spot.
