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2 Unexpected Stars in Raiders’ Week 2 Win Over Chargers
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- 2 Unexpected Stars in Raiders’ Week 2 Win Over Chargers
The Raiders went into Los Angeles and beat up on the Chargers to pick up their second win of the season.
The win has the Raiders tied at the top of the AFC West after two games, and could give Las Vegas a reason to think about the playoffs. It also sank the Chargers to 0-2 and a hole to climb out of to make the playoffs.
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To do so, the Raiders needed excellent performances from unexpected sources.
Hezekiah Masses
In Week 1 the Raiders lost starting cornerback Darien Porter to a foot injury. Porter was ultimately ruled out for Week 2, forcing rookie Hezekiah Masses into action.
Masses delivered in his first start by picking off two of Justin Herbert 's passes.
The rookie was fortunate on his first interception. Chargers' tight end David Njoku got behind Masses, but Njoku bobbled the pass. That allowed Masses to swoop in and snag the ball out of the air. But his second pick was an excellent play. Masses jumped in front of wide receiver Derius Davis to seal the game.
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According to Pro Football Focus, Masses was targeted six times – the most of any Raider – but he made the Chargers pay by grabbing his first two interceptions.
The Raiders' coaching staff was impressed by Masses this offseason and even gave him snaps with the starting defense on the first day of training camp. There has been no update on Porter's timeline, but even when he does come back, Masses should see the field.
Cody White
Sep 20, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Cody White (82) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Cody White was on the practice squad this week, but was elevated for Sunday's game. He delivered by catching two touchdowns.
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White had just 11 career receptions in his first four seasons. Now he is tied for team-lead in receiving touchdowns. White is mainly on the game day roster to play special teams, but he played seven offensive snaps as well and made the most of them.
On the final touchdown of the day, White snuck off the line of scrimmage uncovered before Kirk Cousins found him in the end zone to put the Raiders up by 10 in the fourth quarter.
White is not likely to be involved in the passing game very much, but given the lack of talent in the wide receiver room, there is room to grow.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Sep 21, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
