Kicking off the 2024 NFL season, the Raiders vs Chargers Week 1 matchup on Sunday afternoon saw the return of coach Jim Harbaught who returned to the NFL after spending the last eight years with the University of Michigan. Also debuting was quarterback Gardner Minshew II, who played his first game with the Silver and Black.
Minshew completed 11 of 15 passes in the first half for 127 yards, one touchdown, and a passer rating of 120.7. Minshew’s 120.7 passer rating in the first half ranks fourth among QBs in Raiders history since 1991. Other Raiders 2024 highlights to note was defensive end Maxx Crosby who recorded his first sack of the season, raising his career total to 53. Crosby now ties Bill Pickel in Raiders history for fourth most sacks.
Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins had himself a field day with 135 yards on the ground along with one rushing touchdown. Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert went 17 for 26 for 144 yards and one passing touchdown that went to rookie receiver Ladd McConkey.
Raiders vs Chargers Week 1 | 2024 Season Highlights
For a majority of the game, the Raiders were playing catch up to the Chargers. Their first half lead achieved from Minshew throwing a touchdown to running back Alexander Mattison at the end of the first quarter immediately ended near the beginning of the third quarter. Sustaining their lead, the Chargers and Dobbins took a two possession lead following their touchdown run.
“When the game was on the line, we’ve got to fit up the run correctly,” said Raiders coach Antonio Pierce. “Guys have got to get off blocks. Second-level players have got to fit up. Hats off to them. They stayed consistent with their game. They didn’t beat themselves.”
Dobbins surely benefitted from Harbaugh’s run-heavy offensive scheme. Raiders star receiver Davante Adams finished with 59 yards but it was Jakobi Meyers who led the Silver and Black with 61. In Week 2, the Raiders will travel to Baltimore for play against the Ravens on Sunday, September 15.
Raiders vs Chargers Week 1 Summary
Raiders vs Chargers Matchup History