Despite signing a two-year, $75 million contract, Geno Smith has played more like a backup for the Las Vegas Raiders. The interceptions are piling up, the touchdowns aren’t, and his struggles have directly cost the Raiders several tight games. Pete Carroll continues to back his veteran quarterback, but fans are ready for a change.
There is, however, a silver lining. Aidan O’Connell is back from injured reserve and eligible to play Sunday. The young quarterback still has room to grow—and now, a chance to prove it.
Comparing Aidan O’Connell as a starter…
Simply put, the Purdue alum and the West Virginia alum could not be more different. Smith is a gunslinger, unafraid to fire into tight windows. At times, that aggression pays off. Other times, it sends the ball the wrong way for an interception.
O’Connell, meanwhile, is a traditional pocket passer who leans on timing and accuracy. His limited deep-ball ability shrinks the field and invites defenders to jump routes, creating turnover risks of a different kind. He’s more careful with the football, but that caution also leads to fewer touchdowns.
The numbers tell the story. As a rookie in 2023, O’Connell started 10 games—the same number Smith has played in 2025. O’Connell finished with 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Smith? Twelve touchdowns as well, but nearly twice as many picks.
Related: AFC West Power Rankings Heading Into Week 12
Does a QB change make sense for the Raiders?
Before the season began, the Raiders traded for Kenny Pickett after Aidan O’Connell injured his wrist, hoping to stabilize the backup quarterback spot. And while fans are eager to see No. 12 take the field, this coaching staff also wants to justify its investment in Pickett.
The question is: who actually helps this team win? In limited action, Pickett hasn’t shown he can elevate this offense. Maybe that’s a symptom of the protection issues and the play-calling — problems that have dragged down every quarterback. Even so, this regime needs to find out whether O’Connell can lift the team in a way Pickett hasn’t.
So who should start moving forward?
*Top Photo: Ramble Illustration/Getty Images