LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The Las Vegas Raiders secured their entry into the NFL playoffs on Sunday night with a win at home against the Los Angeles Chargers.
It's the team's first playoff berth since 2016, and comes after a season packed with off-the-field issues.
A 52-yard Daniel Carlson field goal midway through the fourth quarter put the Raiders in the lead, only to be overtaken when the Chargers scored again. The Bolts were nearly held off in their final push to the end zone when a last-second touchdown tied the score and sent the game into overtime.
Two Carlson field goals later, the Raiders clinched their "win-and-in" shot and sent the Chargers home with a final score of 35-32.
#Raiders win in OT, 35-32.
— Tina Nguyen (@ttinanguyen) January 10, 2022
Raiders heading to the playoffs for the first time since the 2016 season. They will face the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday at 1:30pm. pic.twitter.com/yfs0AV8Z3a
It was a victory many fans hadn't dared to hope for after a chaotic season. First came the loss of head coach Jon Gruden to an email scandal. Star wide receiver Henry Ruggs III was arrested for DUI resulting in death. Corner Damon Arnette was released for his off-the-field behavior. Just last week, another DUI arrest made headlines, though corner Nate Hobbs was available to play on Sunday.
Up next, the Raiders will face the Cincinatti Bengals on Saturday at 1:30 p.m.
