In the aftermath of a disheartening 34-18 loss to the Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce finds himself at a crossroads. The team’s quarterback situation remains uncertain, with Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell vying for the starting spot. Pierce acknowledged that he’s still evaluating the position, leaving fans and pundits alike wondering who will take the reins against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.
Minshew, who signed a lucrative two-year deal with the Raiders, has struggled with consistency, throwing five interceptions in five starts. His 100-yard pick-six in the second quarter against the Broncos proved to be a turning point, shifting momentum in favor of the opposition. Despite completing 12 of 17 passes, Minshew’s mistakes ultimately cost the Raiders dearly.
Meanwhile, O’Connell, who replaced Minshew in the third quarter, managed 94 yards on 10-of-20 passing. Pierce has experience with O’Connell, having installed him as the starter last season when he took over as interim coach. The rookie responded by throwing eight touchdowns and no interceptions in the final four games of the season.
Pierce praised O’Connell’s cerebral approach to the game, saying, “We know what we’re going to get with Aidan… That back foot hits the ground, ball comes out, he’s a cerebral player, knows where the ball needs to go.” As the Raiders look to bounce back from their latest defeat, Pierce must decide whether to stick with Minshew or give O’Connell another chance to shine.
In other news, the Davante Adams saga continues to simmer in the background. The star receiver has been absent from the team for over a week, reportedly rehabbing a hamstring injury while trade talks intensify. When asked about the situation, Pierce remained tight-lipped, saying only, “I don’t know… I think you’ve got to ask Davante that.” As the Raiders prepare to face the Steelers, they’ll need to find a way to overcome their current struggles and get back on track.
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