The Texans' defense repeatedly frustrated Derek Carr and Oakland's stout running game for three quarters, but the emergent young Raiders quarterback refused to buckle, throwing fourth-quarter touchdown passes of 75 and 35 yards as Oakland prevailed 27-20 in the rarefied air of Mexico City's Estadio Azteca.
It was a rough night for the Texans when it came to officiating. They were robbed of an early touchdown by a bad call early, then victimized by questionable spots late – the latter upheld by replay – allowing the Raiders to eke out the victory.
The decisive 35-yard pass to Amari Cooper with 4:43 left capped an 85-yard drive after the Texans had been stopped on fourth down when coach Bill O'Brien opted not to let Nick Novak attempt a go-ahead field goal.