NFL teams
Bill Williamson, ESPN Staff Writer 11y

Wrap-up: Browns 20, Raiders 17

A look at the Raiders’ fifth straight loss, 20-17 to the Browns:

What it means: A terrible season is getting worse for Oakland. The Raiders are 3-9 and they have lost five straight games. Losing at home to a losing team like Cleveland (4-8) will not make the Raider Nation happy. Things are unraveling.

Allen coaches with a heavy heart: It’s a tough time for Oakland coach Dennis Allen. His father, Grady Allen, is seriously ill in a Texas hospital. Allen is set to fly to Texas on Sunday night to be with his father and family. Making this sad situation even more difficult is the Raiders have a game on Thursday, so Allen will not have much time to deal with both a pressing family issue and a short week to prepare for a game. He hopes to return Wednesday. Offensive coordinator Greg Knapp will run the team until then.

Owner can’t be happy: Oakland owner Mark Davis has twice talked about his frustrations with the way this season is going. You have to wonder if Allen may be in danger of being one-and-done if there is not a sudden turnaround. I’d think general manager Reggie McKenzie is safe, either way, but the pressure could be on Allen. I’d certainly think some coaches, such as Knapp and defensive coordinator Jason Tarver will be seriously evaluated after the season.

Is it going to be Pryor’s time: Second-year quarterback Terrelle Pryor was active, but he did not play. With four games left, there will be some fans clamoring for Pryor to play. Carson Palmer threw for 351 yards, but he didn’t make much of an impact. Oakland’s offense was stagnant much of the game.

Myers has a huge day: The season of tight end Brandon Myers continues to get better. He tied a team record with 14 catches, for 130 yards. He scored with one second left in the game. Myers has been a bright spot for Oakland.

What’s next: The Raiders host AFC West champion Denver on Thursday. Even though, the division is wrapped up, Denver will try to win to get a first-round bye in the playoffs.

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