Raiders Fall Short Against Chargers

The Las Vegas Raiders faced a tough challenge on Monday night, suffering a 20-9 defeat to the Los Angeles Chargers. The game highlighted the struggles of quarterback Geno Smith, who had a difficult outing, while the Chargers continued their undefeated start to the season.

Smith completed 24 of 43 passes for 180 yards but was plagued by three interceptions and endured three sacks during the match. His performance left fans frustrated, particularly regarding the lack of offensive production. Former blue-chip draft pick Ashton Jeanty also had a muted impact, managing only 43 yards on 11 carries.

Despite the struggles of the Raiders, Jakobi Meyers stood out among the receivers, leading the team with six receptions for 68 yards. However, it wasn't enough to overcome the Chargers, led by quarterback Justin Herbert, who delivered a strong performance. Herbert completed 19 of 27 passes for 242 yards, throwing two touchdown passes—one to Keenan Allen and another to Quentin Johnston.

The game kicked off poorly for Smith, as he was intercepted on the very first play by linebacker Daiyan Henley, giving the Chargers an early 3-0 lead thanks to a 38-yard field goal from Cameron Dicker. The Raiders managed to equalize with a 54-yard field goal from Daniel Carlson, but Herbert quickly responded, finding Allen in the end zone to give the Chargers a 10-3 edge.

Though the Raiders added another field goal early in the second quarter, Herbert's 60-yard touchdown pass to Johnston extended the Chargers' lead to 17-6. Smith's problems continued as he was intercepted again by safety Tony Jefferson just before halftime, allowing the Chargers to take a 17-6 advantage into the break.

Dicker added another field goal in the third quarter, pushing the score to 20-6. The Raiders attempted to mount a comeback with an 11-minute drive that concluded with a field goal, but their offensive momentum faltered late in the game. A turnover on downs gave the Raiders a short field, yet Smith’s third interception, snagged by cornerback Donte Jackson, thwarted their comeback efforts.

Even with a late-game fumble caused by a strong hit from Maxx Crosby, the Raiders could not capitalize, as the Chargers maintained their lead. Looking forward, the Raiders will aim to rebound against the Washington Commanders on the road next Sunday.