The Chargers found a way down the stretch thanks to timely running by Melvin Gordon, and a game winning field goal by Nick Novak for the 17-16 win over the Raiders.
The Bolts captured their second win of the season, as Philip Rivers took over at his 8 with 4:09 remaining and launched two long passes by Hunter Henry that moved Los Angeles into field-goal range. Head coach Anthony Lynn showcased good clock management skills, keeping the ball in the hands of Gordon five straight times.
The Chargers running game looked to be more consistent as Melvin Gordon could dominate, as the Raiders have allowed 124 yards rushing per game. Raiders quarterback Derek Carr returned after missing only one game with a fracture in his back.
The Chargers best defensive duo, Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram, have been a lot for offenses to handle as they have a combined 13 sacks on the season.
Chargers Trevor Williams picked off Carr for the 31-yard return. Rivers was unable to find any offensive rhythm in the first half. Nick Novak missed a 48 yard field goal, as the Bolts missed out on a golden opportunity to take a significant lead in the opening quarter.
Carr lead the Raiders down the field, that set up a 23-yard touchdown pass to Michael Crabtree for the 7-0 lead.
The Bolts defense appeared to be thrown off by Carr's decision to throw the ball.
The Bolts have been outscored 50-7 in the opening quarter this season through six games.
The Raiders defense neutralized the Bolts offensively, especially during third down conversations in the first half.
However, with under two minutes remaining in the first half, the Bolts offense decided to have a sense of urgency as they capped off an amazing drive with a one yard touchdown by Gordon.
After a crucial pass interference penalty on Jahleel Addai kept the Raiders drive alive, Carr immediately went into a hurry up offense, that brought Oakland to the 26-yard-line.
A few plays later, Oakland settled for a 44 yard field goal by Giorgio Tavecchio and the 10-7 halftime lead.
Bolts rookie wide receiver Mike Williams played just three snaps on offense in the first half, and was not targeted.
Williams made a huge catch in the fourth quarter for a 15 yard gain, that later set up a Gordon six yard touchdown run for the 14-10 lead.
After a scoreless third quarter, Oakland took the lead on a 47-yard end-around by Cordarrelle Patterson, but Carr's play was still not enough to carry them to victory.
Rivers finished 25-for-36 for 268 yards and one touchdown. Gordon ran for 83 yards and currently has seven touchdowns on the season.
Carr finished 21-for-30, for 171 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in the loss.
