In the season finale of the 2018 season, the Oakland Raiders fell to the Chiefs, 35-3. With a win, the Chiefs clinched home field throughout the playoffs. Although the Raiders did not have anything to play for, they wanted to play spoiler. Unfortunately, Kansas City outclassed the Raiders at every turn. With the loss, Oakland clinches the fourth overall pick in the draft.
Carr
With a roster of unknown, aging vets and rookie tackles, Carr trudged through this game. When he finished 24/33 and 185 yards, no one was surprised. However, Carr did manage to not see Chiefs’ safety Daniel Sorenson for a pick-six. Yet, in his defense, he thought Jared Cook would continue the route and not stop running. As a result, Sorenson stepped in front of the pass and took it the distance.
Rushing Attack
Without Marshawn Lynch, the ground game looked anemic. Yet, Doug Martin compiled decent stats. While rushing for 100 yards, Martin made the case for a 2019 return as a backup. Now, the question remains about who starts in 2019.
Receivers
Despite the numerous talent losses, Jordy Nelson evolved into Carr’s most durable receiver, snagging nine grabs for 78 yards.
Blocking
With two rookie tackles, Kolton Miller and Brandon Parker faced quality edge rushers all night. With the Chiefs needing to win, Dee Ford and Justin Houston torched the line for a combined 2.5 sacks.
Pass Rush
On the other side, Arden Key continues to struggle with closing plays. Key cannot get the ballcarrier to the ground. Whether strength or techniques are the issues is unknown. Outside of that, Mahomes enjoyed large segments of unbothered freedom versus the Raiders.
Coaching
In reality, the Raiders looked like a team headed into the offseason. With nothing to play for, they resembled a roster bound for change. Although they played better down the stretch, the Raiders did not have the horses to win on Sunday. Now, the offseason awaits them. Overall, a terrible season finally ends, and the team heads into the postseason.
