The Las Vegas Raiders snapped a four-game losing streak with a dominant defensive performance against the Tennessee Titans, securing a 20-10 victory on Sunday. Geno Smith passed for 174 yards and a touchdown, but it was the Raiders' defense, led by Devin White, that truly dictated the game.
The Raiders (2-4) had struggled in recent weeks, while the Titans (1-5) were looking to build on a win and achieve consecutive victories for the first time in nearly three years. However, the Raiders' defense proved to be the difference-maker, consistently pressuring Titans rookie quarterback Cam Ward and stifling the Tennessee offense.
Las Vegas set the tone early, shutting out the Titans in the first half. This marked the first time the Raiders had blanked an opponent in a half since December 29th of the previous year. The combined offensive output in the first half was anemic, with both teams averaging a paltry 2.39 yards per play.
Devin White delivered a standout performance, recording nine tackles, a sack, an interception, and a forced fumble. Maxx Crosby also contributed significantly, sacking Ward twice and extending his streak of games with at least one tackle for loss to nine. Jonah Laulu added to the defensive pressure with his fourth sack in six games. Thomas Booker sealed the victory with a strip sack of Ward late in the fourth quarter. The Raiders defense sacked Ward a total of six times.
On the offensive side, Smith completed 17 of 22 passes for 174 yards, including a touchdown pass to tight end Michael Mayer on the opening drive. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty rushed for 75 yards and a touchdown. Tre Tucker led the team's receivers with five catches for 70 yards. While the Raiders' offense didn't produce overwhelming numbers, it was efficient enough to capitalize on the defense's strong performance.
The Titans struggled to generate any consistent offense, with Ward completing 26 of 38 passes for 222 yards and a late touchdown to David Martin-Robinson. However, Ward was under constant pressure and committed three turnovers, including two lost fumbles. The Titans also suffered a setback when wide receiver Calvin Ridley left the game in the second quarter with a hamstring injury.
Ultimately, the Raiders' dominant defensive effort and efficient offensive performance secured a much-needed victory, ending their four-game losing streak. The Titans, on the other hand, will need to address their offensive struggles and protect their rookie quarterback as they look to turn their season around.