In case you haven’t heard, the quarterback battle on the Las Vegas Raiders roster has been dominating headlines lately.
If we’re honest, Week 1 of the preseason left Raider Nation with more questions than answers as far as the quarterback position goes. Both Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew had some notable highlights (and lowlights too), so what now? We can only hope that maybe Saturday’s matchup against the Dallas Cowboys will offer more clarity. Well, it might be more than hope. It’s been reported that Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce will decide who his starter will be thereafter.
#Raiders coach Antonio Pierce anticipates making a decision on starting QB AFTER the next exhibition. Says both O’Connell and Minshew will play at least a quarter against the #Cowboys on Saturday
— Paul Gutierrez (@PGutierrezESPN) August 11, 2024
What are people saying about the Raiders and their quarterback conundrum?
Among the people that have weighed in on what’s going on in Las Vegas, we have ESPN insider Dan Graziano. There are two ways to look at what Pierce and Co. are considering—the immediate future and the long-term, big picture. Graziano believes that the Silver and Black are likely to hand the reins to O’Connell ahead of the regular season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers. As the season progresses though, Minshew takes over as AOC holds back a dominant defense.
Interestingly, Graziano mentioned that Minshew could lead the Raiders to the playoffs in an unlikely scenario. By doing so, they’ll once again be out of the running for a top QB prospect. As a result, the team goes after Dak Prescott—we can already hear the collective groan from Raider Nation.
What about the local media in Las Vegas?
Let’s keep it real; many Raiders fans could care less about what ESPN has to say about their team. In fact, you could make the case that applies to most national talking heads. So, what about the team’s flagship media?
J.T. The Brick, the official voice of the Raiders (according to some, at least), believes Minshew would provide the best option. More so for the short term, in particular for the early opponents who feature several vaunted pass-rushers. That’s where Minshew’s mobility comes into play. However, J.T. stated that people within the Raiders organization are thinking big picture, not just the early part of the 2024 season.
“They said, ‘No, you’re being an emotional radio host. It’s not about who they like more. It’s about the organization. The organization has a young Aidan O’Connell that is being groomed to potentially be the franchise quarterback of the organization. You have to act in his best interest if this competition is close.’”
It’s a tough call for sure, no matter how you slice it. Indeed, Minshew offers a greater ability to initiate action when a play fails. However, he will make a few throws that will leave everyone perplexed every game. On the other hand, O’Connell appears to be backed by Pierce and star players such as Davante Adams. One thing’s for sure: we’re going to get some clarity real soon.
*Top Photo: Getty Images