Week 2 of the NFL season gave us a classic AFC West battle: the Las Vegas Raiders hosting the Los Angeles Chargers under Monday night lights. These two rivals always bring drama, and this game was no different. With both teams looking to start 2-0, every play mattered.
If you missed the action or just want a quick breakdown, here’s a simple, play-by-play recap in real human words.
Quentin Johnston is the 1st Chargers player with 3 Rec TD in the team's first 2 games of a season since Antonio Gates in 2014
— Kris Rhim (@krisrhim1) September 16, 2025
pic.twitter.com/oLRxvHB9iy
Raiders Strike Back to Tie the Game
The Raiders’ offense showed sparks when Geno Smith connected with rookie Dont’e Thornton Jr. on a big 20-yard catch that pushed them deep into Chargers territory. But just as things looked promising, Khalil Mack reminded everyone why he’s still one of the best pass rushers in the league — sacking Smith on third down.
That stop forced the Raiders to settle for a long 54-yard field goal by Daniel Carlson, which he nailed.
Score: Chargers 3, Las Raider 3
Chargers Get on the Board First
Earlier, the Chargers’ defense set up the first points of the night. Daiyan Henley picked off Geno Smith on the very first drive, giving the Bolts great field position. Unfortunately, the offense couldn’t capitalize much and went three-and-out.
Still, kicker Cameron Dicker drilled a 38-yard field goal to put Los Angeles ahead early.
Score: Chargers 3, Raider 0
Raiders’ Rough Start — One Play, One Turnover
It wasn’t the start Raider Nation was hoping for. On literally the first play of the game, Geno Smith’s pass got tipped by Alohi Gilman and landed right in the arms of Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley. That mistake gave the Chargers the ball at the Raiders’ 25-yard line.
Thankfully for Las Vegas, the defense stood tall and only gave up three points.
Inactive Players — Who Missed the Game
Every game is shaped by who suits up, and this matchup was no different.
Raider’s Inactives:
- Key names missing (list from original)
Chargers Inactives:
- Key names missing (list from original)
These absences especially mattered in the trenches, where both teams were already thin.
How to Watch Raiders Games This Season
For fans asking, “What channel is the Raiders game on today?” — here’s the Week 2 breakdown:
- TV: ESPN
- Streaming: Fubo (free trial available)
- Radio: KFI AM-640
If you’re following the Raider’s all season long, most of their key matchups are in prime-time slots — meaning big national TV audiences.
Raiders 2025 Season Schedule (Key Matchups)
Here’s a quick look at where the Las Vegas Raiders stand and who’s ahead on the calendar:
- Week 1: vs. Kansas City Chiefs – Loss/W (update with result)
- Week 2: vs. Chargers – Monday Night Football
- Week 5: vs. Washington Commanders – FOX
- Week 8: vs. Minnesota Vikings – Prime Video
- Week 10: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers – NBC (Sunday Night Football)
- Week 13: vs. Chargers again – AFC West rematch
- Week 14: vs. Philadelphia Eagles – ESPN/ABC
…and more matchups that will test this Raider’s squad.
Final Thoughts: What This Means for the Las Vegas
This game showed both the promise and the problems for the Las Vegas Raiders. The offense had flashes — especially with the new connection between Geno Smith and Dont’e Thornton Jr. — but turnovers remain an issue. Defensively, the Raider’s kept things under control, forcing the Chargers to settle for field goals early.
For Raider Nation, it’s still too early to panic. With plenty of divisional games ahead and stars like Maxx Crosby and Davante Adams leading the way, this team has the tools to fight for the AFC West crown.
👉 If you’re a Raider’s fan, keep your eyes on the next few weeks — because the upcoming stretch of games will reveal if this squad is playoff-ready or still a work in progress.
✍️ Ammar is a digital marketer, domain investor, and blogger with over 6 years of experience in creating trusted content online. On Glyca.com, he shares the latest trending news and honest affiliate product reviews to help readers stay informed and make smarter decisions.
