There’s a lot of conversation today about whether the Chargers (still San Diego to me) and Raiders (still Oakland to me) should have played it “safe” last night to play for a tie instead of going for a win. If the Raiders and Chargers tie, they both make the playoffs.

ICYMI- the Raiders had the ball in overtime, score still tied, with 2 seconds left on the clock. If the Raiders make the field goal, they head to the playoffs and the Chargers head to perfect weather for the rest of the winter.

If the kick is blocked and the Chargers run it back for a touchdown, the Raiders go home and the Chargers make the playoffs.

The Raiders could just kneel the ball, watch the time expire and prepare for the postseason.

This very strange scenario is fabulous for sports, game theory and business strategy.

Lots of interesting analysis, but don’t make the mistake of overlooking a more basic takeaway… you want to be the one in control of that decision. The Chargers found themselves at the Raiders’ mercy at the end of the game.

As litigation attorneys, one goal is to help our clients make the right decision at the end of the game. But a bigger goal is to be in the position to make that call.

What do I think about last night’s game? Whatever, GO CHIEFS!!!!!