The Chiefs relied on their defense Sunday to beat the Raiders, 34-20, and extend their win streak to six.
The Chiefs scored the game’s final 20 points. A Josh Mauga interception and 65-yard return set up the game-tying touchdown early in the fourth quarter, and a 38-yard interception return for a touchdown by Tyvon Branch with 3:14 to go provided the final points to seal it.
It was a strange game. The teams traded scores to start before the defenses started to dominate. In the second half, three straight touchdowns were followed by botched PATs.
In the end, the Raiders couldn’t overcome their turnovers. Derek Carr was picked off three times and sacked four times.
Alex Smith delivered an efficient performance for the Chiefs, completing 16-of-22 passes foe 162 and two touchdowns. Smith also ran for a touchdown.
At 7-5, the Chiefs probably won’t catch the Broncos in the AFC West but are chasing a wildcard spot. If the Steelers win Sunday night they’ll join the Jets and Chiefs at 7-5.
The Raiders are 5-7 and out of playoff contention unless they win out and get plenty of help. The Chiefs and Raiders play again in the season finale.
