The Raiders kept it close against the Colts on Sunday but never held a lead as they lost 23-20 in Indianapolis. The defeat eliminated Las Vegas from playoff contention.
Early short-yardage miscues on offense ruined quality field position for the Raiders, and big plays for the Colts offense in the first half set the table for a robust Indianapolis run game in the second half that sealed their victory. Late penalty flags by the Raiders closed the door on a potential comeback for the road team.
Here are the winners and losers for the week, after the Raiders failed to capitalize on momentum from their Christmas Day win against the Chiefs.
Winner: WR Davante Adams
Wide receiver Davante Adams was targeted an incredible 21 times as the Raiders turned to a pass-happy game plan in the first half and then played from behind all afternoon.
Adams delivered with 13 catches for 126 yards and two touchdowns, including an impressive late grab late to bring the Raiders within 3 points of the Colts. The ensuing onside kick was recovered by Indianapolis, ending the game.
Adams surpassed 1,000 receiving yards for the season, his fourth consecutive campaign topping that mark.
THAT’S TWO ON THE DAY FOR TAE!!!#LVvsIND | 📺 CBS pic.twitter.com/2ROaQFR1lb
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) December 31, 2023
Winner: RB Zamir White
The Raiders were once again without starting running back Josh Jacobs, so RB Zamir White got another shot at carrying the load. Despite the Raiders’ pass-first approach, he responded with quality moments throughout the game.
White ended up with 71 yards on the ground (on 20 carries) and 35 yards through the air, with five catches on six targets.
Winner: QB Aidan O’Connell
After quarterback Aidan O’Connell failed to complete a pass after the first quarter against the Chiefs on Christmas, the Raiders’ game plan put this contest in the hands of their rookie QB.
His effort wasn’t enough, though his game stats can’t be ignored, especially after last week. O’Connell finished with 299 yards, completing 30 of 47 attempts. He also had two touchdowns, both to Adams.
Winner: P A.J. Cole
In the first half, Raiders punter A.J. Cole pinned the Colts deep with multiple quality boots. At one point, the Colts started four possessions in a row from inside their 10-yard line.
A roughing the kicker call on a Cole punt also set up the Raiders’ first touchdown of the day. It was part of a 15-play drive to open the second half for Las Vegas, ending in an…
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