Around the AFC West, Week 11: Chiefs still can’t shake Chargers in close race

Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders took on the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday and lost their eighth game of the season, 20-6. At first, it looked like Oakland might have a shot when they held the ball for 23 of 29 plays in the first quarter and outgained the Chargers by 129 yards. However, a Derek Carr fumble on a sack changed the momentum of the game.

The Raiders only managed to make 2 field goals, showing yet again, that they are the worst team in the NFL. What may have been the most defining moment of the game, however, came on a Raiders’ 4th and 5 at the Chargers’ 19-yard line. Instead of trying to make something happen while facing pressure, Carr opted to ground the ball and completely end the possession. At least try and make a play happen, Derek! It really seems to sum up the season; the Raiders have given up.

This seems solidified in the reports coming out of the locker room after the game. Reportedly, one Raiders veteran said to another, “I gotta get the —- outta here.” Some speculation is that this player was Jordy Nelson, but it has not been confirmed. Either way, it speaks to the culture of the locker room. The Raiders are just bad and it has permeated every level.

The Raiders did not leave Sunday’s game without their own injuries. Wide receiver Martavis Bryant left with a knee injury in the third quarter. While nothing official has come out, Gruden is on record saying he fears it is serious as a possible PCL tear.

The Raiders head to Arizona next week to take on the Cardinals. The Cardinals are coming off a loss at Arrowhead to the Chiefs, but not a terrible one. Their defense showed flashes of greatness against the league’s top offense. The Raiders probably won’t be able to hang with the Cardinals. This is a battle of two pretty bad teams. I anticipate the Raiders will continue their losing ways as a bad locker room culture just can’t be overcome. Game time is 3:05 p.m.