Las Vegas Raiders playoff chances: Can Las Vegas still make it to the postseason this year?
It has not been the year the Las Vegas Raiders envisioned. They signed Josh McDaniels, one of the most hotly pursued head coaching candidates over the past few seasons, as the new head coach. They traded for All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams.
Despite that, they were 5-8 heading into last week's matchup with the New England Patriots. Their stunning victory, marked by an inexplicable play by the Patriots, had them coming into this week's game to get to 7-8 and have a real shot at the postseason.
Unfortunately, a late touchdown and subsequent Derek Carr interception sunk them. How badly did this loss hurt their playoff push?
Playoff scenarios for Las Vegas: Are the Raiders out of the playoffs?
The Raiders are 6-9, which puts them 2.5 games behind two teams for a playoff spot.
Right now, the AFC's available wild cards are held by 8-6 Miami Dolphins and the 8-6 Los Angeles Chargers, both of whom play tomorrow. With a win by both teams, the Raiders could not surpass their nine wins.
If both teams lose, the Raiders will continue to have options, if only for another week, but they'd have to win out and hope one team loses out. If one team wins, it will get a little harder, but it won't be impossible.
It's a very tall task, but they're not eliminated going into the last games of Week 16 after a supremely disappointing season.
Las Vegas Raiders' schedule after Week 15
Las Vegas is in a very precarious situation. If they're alive in Week 17, a loss would be detrimental, if not a conclusive end to their season.
Their two remaining opponents are the 11-4 San Francisco 49ers and the 12-3 Kansas City Chiefs. These teams are among the league's best, so it won't be easy.
The Chargers will close their season with a much easier schedule. They will face the 4-9-1 Indianapolis Colts, the 4-10 Los Angeles Rams, and the 4-10 Denver Broncos.
The Dolphins get the 7-8 New England Patriots and 7-8 New York Jets, who are both fighting to stay alive.
They have a very slim shot at making it, but they'll take a little solace in the fact that they haven't been eliminated just yet.