The talk of what would happen with besieged Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr has finally happened; he was benched. In Raider Nation, some rejoice while others are devastated, but at the end of the day, there are two games still to play and the Raiders are still alive in the playoff race, though they have little chance. The upcoming game features what some consider the NFC’s best team, the San Francisco 49ers. This will either be a storybook ending to the 2022 season or an unmitigated disaster. Regardless, here are three burning questions going forward with Week 17.
Can the Las Vegas Raiders remain competitive without Derek Carr?
I know this sounds wrong, but lost in Carr being benched were Denzel Perryman and Chandler Jones going to IR. With two of the best defenders going down ahead of one of the most explosive offenses, this is not exactly a good thing. The offense has struggled, and hopefully, Jarrett Stidham helps with that, but all things considered, this could be ugly. The 49ers still have much to play for, while the Raiders are a drama show. Will this game be competitive? We’ll find out on Sunday.
How will Raider Nation respond in these last two games?
As said before, Raider Nation is split between those who love the move and those who hate it. The 49ers are a rival from the Bay Area that holds a lot of significance when it comes to the fan base. Is there a possibility the fans are fighting amongst themselves and taking attention away from the game? Raiders fans are not ones to keep quiet. I mean, who can forget them booing Matt Schaub for coming in when Carr was hurt during his rookie season or launching food and drinks onto the field for the last game in Oakland? In the first game without Carr, but for a non-injury issue, what will be the scene?
Play to win or tank for a higher draft pick with Carr now at home?
Las Vegas currently owns the number nine pick. However, that selection could go to number six if they lose the next two games. In the words of Herman Edwards, “You play to win the game.” With Carr benched, you’d think a higher pick is the plan. Nonetheless, these players have pride and will want to win the games, so what will happen? A bigger question is if Josh McDaniels will put these players in a position to succeed with his play-calling. There is a lot of uncertainty, so it’s worth asking: do they stay okay with tanking the last two games, or do they go out there and try to win?
Raiders Bench 3-Time Pro Bowl QB Derek Carr, The Nation Reacts
*Top Photo: Around The NFL