The Raiders play solid football in every phase to knock off the Patriots. The offense was efficient and explosive behind Smith's pinpoint passing. The former Pro Bowler connected on 70% of his throws (24-of-34 for 362 yards), exhibiting outstanding touch, timing and anticipation, targeting receivers at intermediate range. Smith's instant chemistry with All-Pro Brock Bowers (five receptions for 103 yards on eight targets) enabled the offense to consistently move the chains despite a sputtering rush attack that could not get untracked with Ashton Jeanty bottled up for most of the game. Defensively, the Raiders dominated the critical situations (third-down, red zone and turnovers) to tilt the game in their favor. Though the Raiders' workmanlike effort lacked pizzazz, the final result speaks to the sound execution of a team that is playing winning football under a championship coach.