(AP) LAS VEGAS — The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 37-34 on Sunday to extend their winning streak to nine games after Robbie Gould's 23-yard field goal with 6:53 remaining in overtime.
The 49ers (12-4) needed the win more than anybody else, as a loss by Minnesota or a win against Arizona next week would guarantee them the No. 2 spot in the NFC. If Philadelphia loses to the Giants in Week 18, San Francisco will also have a chance at the top seed and a bye.
With its defense, which came into the game as the best in the league, San Francisco overcome a rare off day. The 34 points were the highest the 49ers had given up since being defeated 44-23 by the Kansas City Chiefs on October 23, which also happened to be San Francisco's most recent setback.
Christian McCaffrey ran for 121 yards and caught six passes for another 72 yards to help the Niners avoid another loss. For the third consecutive season, he ran for more than 1,000 yards, and he had scores in five straight games.
The Raiders (6-10) were out of playoff contention after the defeat. Three of their last four games have ended in losses.
Derek Carr, the nine-year starter who was benched earlier in the week, was replaced by Jarrett Stidham, the quarterback for Las Vegas, who completed 23 of 34 throws for 365 yards. He and Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City were the only quarterbacks to toss three touchdown passes against the 49ers this season.
Additionally, Stidham threw two interceptions. In overtime, Tashaun Gipson picked off Stidham and returned it 56 yards, setting up Gould's short game-winning attempt.
For the first time this season, San Francisco allowed an opponent to score on its first two series as Stidham led the Raiders to 10 points on their first two drives.
Early in the third quarter, Stidham connected with an open Adams for a 60-yard touchdown, giving Las Vegas a 24–14 lead.
Before Gould had a chance to give the 49ers a chance to win the game in regulation, the sides traded touchdowns. As time ran down, he attempted a 41-yard field goal, but he missed it.
Before Gould had a chance to give the 49ers a chance to win the game in regulation, the sides traded touchdowns. As time ran down, he attempted a 41-yard field goal, but he missed it.