The Associated Press
Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Cam Little kicks a field goal on Sunday.
LAS VEGAS — The Jacksonville Jaguars faced off against the Las Vegas Raiders under challenging circumstances, particularly for quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who entered the game battling an illness. The early moments were rocky for Lawrence, marked by a frustrating interception thrown into double coverage in the end zone. The team’s hopes for a victory seemed dim as the threat of a third consecutive loss loomed large.
Despite the bleak start, Lawrence demonstrated remarkable resilience. When it mattered most, he stepped up, delivering precision passes and even contributing two rushing touchdowns, including a critical game-winning sneak in overtime. “He was pale as a ghost throughout the whole game,” Jaguars coach Liam Coen remarked. “The frustrating interception down on the goal line was tough, but I’m very proud of how he responded, especially when the game really was on the line.”
The turning point came late in the game. DaVon Hamilton, the Jaguars’ nose tackle, played a crucial role in securing the victory by deflecting a pass from Raiders quarterback Geno Smith, preventing the Raiders from converting a 2-point attempt that could have secured a last-minute win.
Cam Little, the Jaguars’ kicker, captured attention as he shattered an NFL record with a stunning 68-yard field goal right before halftime. This feat energized the team and, with just 16 seconds left in regulation, Little nailed a 48-yarder to tie the game and send it into overtime.
In the extra period, Lawrence showcased his athleticism, leaping over the pile to extend the ball just over the goal line for a 30-23 lead. Smith answered with a touchdown pass to Brock Bowers, who returned from a three-game injury hiatus, managing to score three times in this match alone. However, his 2-point conversion attempt fell short, thwarted by Hamilton’s defensive prowess.
Smith acknowledged the near-miss, saying, “We got the look we wanted, and Tyler Lockett was wide open in the end zone, but hats off to Hamilton. He made the play.”
This victory not only halted the Jaguars’ two-game losing streak but also proved crucial in enhancing their playoff hopes. With this win, the Jaguars improved their record to 5-3, while the Raiders dropped to 2-6, losing six of their last seven games.
Throughout the game, Lawrence completed 23 of 34 passes for a total of 220 yards, demonstrating a strong performance in the second half and overtime with 120 yards on 11 of 15 passing. His early fourth-quarter touchdown run marked a shift in momentum, bringing the Jaguars ahead 13-9. Lawrence expressed relief after the game, saying, “I feel a little bit better after getting the win.”
On the ground, running back Travis Etienne contributed significantly, rushing for 84 yards on 22 carries, further bolstering the Jaguars’ offensive effort.
For the Raiders, Smith had a productive day, passing for 284 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing his ability to lead even as his team struggled to secure the win. Bowers’ standout performance with 12 receptions for 127 yards added a silver lining for the Raiders amidst a disappointing outing.