Before the game even got started, the Oakland Raiders had already found themselves in a hole. Superstar guard Kelechi Osemele was a late scratch due to illness, and seventh-round rookie Vadal Alexander was named the starter in his place. Osemele’s absence added to an already notable list of inactives, which included standout rookie Karl Joseph.
It seemed that the bad news carried into Oakland’s opening offensive drive, as they went three and out. But Tyreek Hill muffed Marquette King’s punt, and the Raiders were able to recover.
With the second chance, Oakland nearly blew the extra opportunity to put points on the board, as Amari Cooper appeared to fumble after catching a quick slant.