For the first time since Week 4 of the regular season, the Las Vegas Raiders have finally finished a game in victory in the Raiders vs Jaguars Week 16 matchup at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday. Quarterback Aidan O’Connell made his return since suffering a back injury in the Week 14 loss against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Completing 24 out of 38 passing attempts, O’Connell threw for 257 yards with a majority directed toward rookie tight end Brock Bowers who finished the day with 99 yards and 11 receptions through 13 targets. Bowers has now topped the 1,000 receiving yard mark for the season. Raiders running back Ameer Abullah also had an optimal day, rushing for 38 yards through 7 carries, and catching 5 receptions for 47 receiving yards.
Jacksonville Jaguars running back Tank Bigsby scored the first touchdown of the game at the tail end of the first quarter for a short 1-yard run. Raiders running back Alexander Mattison tied the game in the second quarter coincidentally with a 1-yard run as well. Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson topped off the half with two successful field goals.
Raiders vs Jaguars Week 16 | 2024 Season Highlights
Jaguars quarterback Mac Jones found receiver Brian Thomas Jr for a big 62-yard touchdown at the end of the third quarter, putting his team in the lead 14-13. On the very next drive, the Raiders were able to find the end zone thanks to Abdullah’s 7-yard rushing touchdown. Up 19-14, the Raiders opted for a 2 point conversion but failed on O’Connell’s passing attempt.
The Jaguars only executed three plays in their following possession before having to punt. The Raiders then drained six and a half minutes off the clock on their scoreless drive, leaving the Jags with less than 3 minutes to gain the lead. Jones almost led his team to the red zone but couldn’t convert a 4th and 11 at the Jacksonville 38.
Jacksonville lost their seventh game of the last eight, while the Raiders finally got a W after losing week after week since the beginning of October. Their last victory was against the Cleveland Browns on September 29.
“It was just fun to see the smiles again,” said O’Connell. “It’s a big part of why you play the game. To not have it for 10 weeks in a row is tough.”
“Just to come in here and win,” said Bowers. “The vibes are way better.”
The Las Vegas Raiders will meet the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, December 29 at Caesars Superdome.
Raiders vs Jaguars Week 16 Summary
Raiders vs Jaguars Matchup History
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Week 14 – Raiders vs Buccaneers
Week 13 – Raiders vs Chiefs