The Los Angeles Rams scored 14 unanswered points in the fourth quarter in a 17–16 loss against the Las Vegas Raiders. New Rams quarterback Baker Mayfield led an 8-play, 98-yard drive with 1:45 left in the fourth quarter and hit Von Jefferson for a 23-yard touchdown with 10 seconds left.
According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the Rams’ 98-yard TD drive was the longest TD drive that started in the final two minutes in the last 45 seasons.
The Raiders controlled the tempo all evening, but Josh McDaniels’ team clearly lifted their foot off the gas pedal in the second half. Derek Carr finished with 137 passing yards and two interceptions, while Josh Jacobs rushed for 99 yards and a touchdown. Davante Adams also made some splash plays and caught three passes for 71 yards.
John Wolford got the start at quarterback for the Rams, but Mayfield replaced him after one run. The former No. 1 overall pick completed 22 of 35 passes for 230 yards and a touchdown, while Ben Skoronek caught seven passes for 89 yards.
Here’s a breakdown of how this incredible comeback played out Thursday evening.
Why did Rama win?
A baker. Mayfield. showed. above.
Mayfield was waived by the Carolina Panthers this week, and not only did he have to adjust to a new offense, but he also dealt with a short week. Mayfield received the playbook Tuesday night, studied it on the flight to L.A., and despite only being with the team Wednesday, somehow kept the chemistry with the receivers necessary for a 13-point comeback. Mayfield hasn’t adjusted well to the time change, but it looks like he’s adjusted to his new offense. Preventing the Raiders from ever building too much of a lead helped the offense. The Rams had more passing yards, fewer turnovers and fewer penalties, which always helps a win.
It wasn’t just Mayfield, he had help from Skowronek, who led the team in receiving with 89 yards, and while the run game wasn’t as effective as the passing game, Game Acres finished with 42 yards on the ground.
Why did the Raiders lose?
Las Vegas started the game strong, but struggled to get first downs and couldn’t get a comfortable lead to run with. Derek Carr finished with a 36.9 rating compared to Mayfield’s 91.4.
The Raiders led by 13 points with just over four minutes left in the game and the Rams were driving. The Rams offense had yet to score a touchdown in the game, but the Raiders gave up, and when they did, they opened up the possibility of a comeback. Mayfield took advantage of his opportunity and came back with quick play, accurate passes and confidence. The Raiders defense lost its steam and in turn, the game.
The Raiders seemed to be improving, but they continue to blow leads and their inability to close out games is becoming a pattern now.
turning point
The Rams finally got into the end zone and did so just in time. Cam Akers’ 1-yard score capped a 17-play, 75-yard drive that gave Los Angeles hope.
Game of the game
Takeaway’s game segment is now being upgraded: Drive of the Game. Mayfield and the offense he joined this week had 98 yards with 1:45 left in the game and needed a touchdown. With 10 seconds left, Mayfield completed the improbable game-winning pass, a play he cites as one of the most memorable of his career.
Check out the strikeout for Van Jefferson:
What’s next
The Rams faced elimination tonight, a loss that eliminated them from the playoffs, but after a comeback, they live to see another chance to qualify (though the odds are still slim). The Rams face another struggling team, the Packers, in Green Bay next week. Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels will face his former boss next week when he takes on Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots.
“Friend of animals everywhere. Coffee maven. Professional food trailblazer. Twitter buff.”