Raiders Lose to Denver, Head to Houston as No. 5 Seed
By CSN Bay Area ••
DENVER – The Raiders miss Derek Carr. Really, really bad.
Their first game without their starting quarterback was a complete disaster that goes down as a 24-6 loss to the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field.
The Raiders came unglued early and never came back together, clearly still reeling from Carr’s broken fibula in last week’s win over Indianapolis.
He’s likely done for the season, leaving little hope the Raiders can recover and win a playoff game.
That will have to come on the road. The Raiders blew an opportunity to win the AFC West, secure the AFC’s No. 2 seed and a first-round bye. A win in Denver would’ve sealed the deal. A Kansas City loss would’ve done the same, but the Chiefs stayed in the race by beating San Diego.
Now they’re a No. 5 seed, headed to Houston for a playoff showdown with the Texans.
The Raiders will have to remedy their quarterback situation if there’s any hope of winning in the postseason.
Matt McGloin was in charge filling in for Carr, but his first start of the season didn’t last long. He suffered a shoulder injury late in the second quarter and did not return.
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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)
It became clear why Carr was an MVP candidate in the first half, when the Raiders offense struggled mightily with McGloin calling signals. He was inaccurate most of the day, and was worse after getting hit in the shoulder and neck area by Broncos defensive end Jared Crick.
Connor Cook took over late in the second quarter, and finished by completing 12-of-21 passes for 150 yards. He lost a fumble in the third quarter that led to more Denver points.
Cook was solid in spurts, especially on a three-play, 63-yard drive that ended with a 32-yard touchdown strike to Amari Cooper. It was Cook’s first professional touchdown, which came in his first NFL game on the active roster.
Cook made some rookie mistakes including his fumble and a poorly thrown interception midway through the fourth quarter.
The rookie showed some arm talent but wasn’t able to get the Raiders going consistently, though a fumble lost by Johnny Holton hindered positive momentum after the Cooper touchdown.
It wasn’t just offense still unsettled after Carr’s injury. The defense seemed rattled as well. They didn’t tackle well, and got lethargic as the offense struggled. They were penalized heavily in their worst showing of the year.
The Raiders were never in this important game, and limp into the playoffs following an embarrassing display to end the regular season.
Crabtree over 1,000: Michael Crabtree went over 1,000 yards in the fourth quarter, making him and Amari Cooper the first Raiders receiving tandem to exceed 1,000 yards since 2001. Jerry Rice and Tim Brown accomplished the feat then.
Raiders weak at strong safety: Veteran safety Nate Allen suffered a concussion in the first half, which left the Raiders without quality options at strong safety.
Karl Joseph was inactive with a toe injury and Keith McGill was terrible stepping in for Allen. The Raiders turned to Brynden Trawick, primarily a special teams player, after that.
What’s next: The Raiders head on the road to play the Houston Texans in the wild card round of the AFC playoffs.
