The Los Angeles Chargers are now 3-1 after defeating the Las Vegas Raiders 28-14, which gave them their first loss of the season. After these teams started the season off strong, they both wanted to make a statement on Monday night.
The Chargers defense led by linebacker Joey Bosa put the pressure on the Raiders Quarterback Derek Carr, who was sacked four times and threw four interceptions. Bosa said that Carr shuts down under pressure. “We knew once we hit him a few times, he really gets shook.” There was no doubt that the Chargers defensive strategy was outstanding. Despite the win, Bosa bashed the officiating and said, “It’s so bad, it’s unbelievable.”
Officials called Bosa for unsportsmanlike conduct and were still upset after the game. Bosa told reporters, “I didn’t even know they called the fucking penalty on me because I was fuming.” He continued, “But I mean refs are blind, simple. I’m sorry but you’re blind like you open your eyes and do your job.” Bosa complained that the officials missed a holding call.
Bosa forced a fumble and two quarterback hurries. He admitted that he shouldn’t lose his temper but Bosa was fed up with all the years of terribly missed calls. “It’s really pathetic on me for doing what I did. Bad call or not I have to take a step back and just go to the next play. They seem not to have their eyes open half the time.”
The NFL is enforcing taunting penalties this season and Raiders tight end Darren Waller was their latest target Monday night. Waller spiked the ball down in celebration of a catch and was called for a 15-yard penalty for taunting. Raider fans were stunned and head coach Jon Gruden didn’t understand why the call was made against his team.
The Raiders and Chargers meet again in the regular-season finale in Las Vegas.
