Football

When was the first completion by Derek Carr to Davante Adams as Raiders teammates?

Raiders quarterback Derek Carr completed a pass to Davante Adams in the first quarter on Sunday afternoon against the Los Angeles Chargers — as the pair launched a new run as teammates after their days together at Fresno State.

The completion went for 11 yards for a first down in the season opener at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. Several plays later, Carr connected with Adams for 21 yards on third-and-17.

On the drive, Adams had three receptions for 54 yards. The Raiders got the ball to the Chargers 5-yard line, but settled for a field goal by Daniel Carlson on a 14-play drive that took 6 minutes, 34 seconds.

In the fourth quarter, Adams picked up his first touchdown in the Silver and Black when he scored on a 3-yard reception from Carr.

Adams said he kept the game ball after a 24-19 loss.

“This is what they brought me here for,” he said. “To be a big part of this offense and help move the ball and put points on the board. That’s my job and that’s what I’m ready to for. I’m a volume-type guy. I’m always ready for that. If the game goes any type of way then we’ll adjust and we’ll deal with that, too. That means somebody else is handling their business and we’re able to move the ball.”

The quarterback and wide receiver are back together as teammates for the first time since 2013, when Carr and Adams wrapped up their careers at Fresno State. Their final college game was against USC at the Las Vegas Bowl.

It was a long time coming for the duo, who continued to hope for a reunion. It finally was set up in March. when the Raiders acquired Adams from the Green Bay Packers.

Many fans from the Fresno area came out to see the Raiders, especially the two former local stars in Carr and Adams.

David Ortiz of Fresno was among those who made the trip to Inglewood.

“We’re here to represent Derek Carr and Davante Adams.,” he said “We’re just really happy to see them. I think they’re going to be resilient. Them two are going to get together and they’re going to be a dynamic duo.”

Jeanice Franco of Fresno was equally excited to see Carr and Adams. She said she had to be at the game.

“The whole Valley is excited,” she said. “Whether you’re a Raiders fan or not, you’re from Fresno you’re still a Raiders fan. They’re going to kill it all season. “

This story was originally published September 11, 2022 at 1:36 PM.

Anthony Galaviz
The Fresno Bee
Anthony Galaviz writes about sports for The Fresno Bee. He covers the Las Vegas Raiders, high schools, boxing, MMA and junior colleges. He’s been with The Bee since 1997 and attended Fresno City College before graduating from Fresno State with a major in journalism and a minor in criminology. Support my work with a digital subscription
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