Throughout Russell Wilson’s somber news conference after Denver’s 17-16 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, he kept echoing that the team was one or two plays away from winning its season opener.
Yes, Denver’s penalties, special teams issues and defensive miscues down the stretch received most of the criticism. But the offense left points on the field, especially in a critical red zone situation early in the fourth quarter.
With 10:19 to go in regulation, running back Samaje Perine bulldozed through the Raiders defense for a 12-yard run to Las Vegas’ 8-yard line. Suddenly, Denver stopped pounding the rock.