The Las Vegas Raiders’ offense had a disappointing season finale. The worst aspect was that it was self-inflicted, allowing the Kansas City Chiefs defense to emulate the historic 1985 Chicago Bears defense. Although the Chiefs’ defense did make some plays, the Raiders’ offense didn’t perform as well as it did the week before against the San Francisco 49ers. There won’t be many, if any, passing grades as we assign our final round of evaluations for the Raiders’ offensive position groupings.
Grading The Raiders’ Offense
Quarterback
Unquestionably against the Chiefs, Jarrett Stidham’s one-game Cinderella run came to an end. He had a poor game against the Chiefs because his magic had worn off and he committed three turnovers. Hunter Renfrow was the recipient of a spectacular touchdown pass from Stidham, but it came in “garbage time,” after the game had already ended. The Chiefs defense consistently exposed Stidham’s shortcomings throughout the contest, which is the primary cause of the Raiders offense’s poor performance. His chances of being the Raiders’ starting quarterback were probably eliminated by his weak pocket presence, weak arm, and poor decision-making. Stidham’s price dropped, making it possible for the Raiders to sign him on the cheap as a backup.
Grade: F
Running BacksÂ
Given that his father was ill, Josh Jacobs entered the game with a heavy heart. He had one of his poorest games of the season due to the performance of his offensive line as well. Jacobs gained 2.6 yards per carry for a total of 45 running yards on the night, in addition to another five yards gained through the air. Although it wasn’t totally his fault, as was to be expected, he appeared to be distracted by outside noise. On his lone carry for the evening, Zamir White gained 4 yards. Ameer Abdullah caught his sole target for a gain of 10 yards.
Grade: D
Wide Receivers
The Raiders’ receivers had a rough night, which included a few out-of-the-ordinary drops. With 73 yards, Davante Adams led the Raiders, but he also missed two opportunities to score. Those were going to be difficult catches, but “The Terminator” has made some even more difficult ones. Renfrow added 63 yards and the Raiders’ lone touchdown in receiving. With the ball in his hands, Renfrow displayed his elusiveness and catching ability, demonstrating his significance to the current administration. He will be a key piece for the Raiders’ new quarterback next year. Additionally, Mack Hollins contributed 15 yards to the cause. Although the wide receivers had an average day, it was hampered by drops.
Grade: C-
Tight Ends
In this game, the tight ends didn’t have much of an impact. On three catches, Foster Moreau and Darren Waller combined for 45 yards. Nothing spectacular from them; their blocking wasn’t very good either. Then in the end zone, Waller came close to making the catch of the year but was unable to get both feet in bounds.
Grade: C-
Offensive Line
The Raiders offensive line had a terrible game against the Chiefs after holding a strong 49ers defensive line without any sacks. The Raiders’ offensive line did a terrible job of blocking both passes and runs. According to ESPN, the Raiders allowed six sacks, fourteen quarterback hits, and only averaged four yards per rush. The defensive linemen for the Chiefs feasted the whole game, which disrupted the Raiders’ offense’s flow. The Raiders’ offensive line’s interior was largely under attack by the Chiefs, who were simply bullying them. This game demonstrated that the Raiders’ offensive line probably needs three new starters.
Grade: F-
*Top Photo: Scott Winters/Icon Sports Wire via Getty Images