Chargers Charge Into Playoffs After Dominating Raiders in Week 18
With a 34-20 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, the Los Angeles Chargers secured the fifth seed in the NFL Playoffs, a year after a five-win season. What a quick turnaround. This is a significant achievement that positions them well for the postseason. Los Angeles will now face the Houston Texans on Saturday in Houston. As for the Raiders, their season ends after a disappointing 4-13 season. Many are now speculating about the future of head coach Antonio Pierce.
Johnston Balled Out
Chargers receiver Quentin Johnston delivered the best game of his NFL career against the Raiders on Sunday. Johnston's 13 catches for 186 yards showcased his potential and marked a significant turnaround from his past criticisms of dropping passes. Johnston is a big target that can make plays. His recent strong performances, including Sunday's game, bode well for the Chargers as they head into the playoffs.
Meyers Big Day
Raiders receiver Jakobi Meyers had a big day as well. He caught nine passes for 123 yards and a touchdown. With his big game, Meyers went over 1,000 yards for the season, the first time in his six-year career. Meyers finishes the season with 87 catches for 1,027 yards and four touchdowns. His performance this season proves he can be a number-one receiver.
Raiders’ Defense Struggles
The Raiders' defense played decently in the first half, but they could not stop a nosebleed in the second half. Los Angeles had 472 total yards and rushed for 137 yards. Quarterback Justin Herbert threw for 346 yards and two touchdowns. Along with Johnston's strong game, Ladd McConkey added five catches for 95 yards. It was his 10th consecutive game with at least 50 yards to break the rookie record that Odell Beckham Jr. set in 2014. His 82 receptions for 1,149 yards are the Chargers rookie record.
Bowers Breaks Record
Raiders' rookie tight end Brock Bowers concluded his debut season on a high note. His four catches for 50 yards and a touchdown against the Chargers added to his impressive season stats, including a rookie record of 112 catches. Bowers has proven his potential with 1,194 receiving yards and five touchdowns and is set to be a key player for the Raiders in the years to come. It's hard to believe Bowers was not taken before the 13th pick of the NFL Draft.
