AFC West Roundup Week 1: Raiders earn first win of the Las Vegas Era
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders are undefeated in the Las Vegas era, and their first win, 34-30 over the Panthers, was a thriller till the final fourth-down stop. Derek Carr was efficient with 239 passing yards, a touchdown, and another fourth-quarter comeback winning drive. Henry Ruggs III’s speed was on display with three receptions for 55 yards, before being limited (likely as an injury precaution).
But it was Josh Jacobs who stole the show, going for the hat trick with 93 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. A stellar performance from arguably one of the best running backs in the league, as Jacobs went toe-to-toe with Christian McCaffrey.
Las Vegas’s defense weathered injuries to Nick Kwiatkowski and a rough first half to finish the game on a strong note, stuffing Alex Armah with the help of Clelin Ferrell on a fourth-and-one situation late in the quarter. Johnathan Abram’s presence was felt in his return, and the Raiders will need to carry that late momentum into next week’s home opener against the New Orleans Saints.