Raiders' Geno Smith Faces Challenges Ahead of Cowboys Game
The Las Vegas Raiders are entering a mini bye week before their Week 11 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, providing a timely break given their quarterback situation.
Injury Update on Geno Smith
Geno Smith sustained a quad injury during the second half of the Raiders’ 10-7 loss to the Denver Broncos on November 6. This forced backup quarterback Kenny Pickett to briefly take the field. Despite the injury, Smith remained in the game and continued taking snaps, although he was clearly not at full strength.
Coach Carroll later diagnosed Smith with a likely quad contusion but confirmed that the injury is not expected to sideline him, especially with the extra recovery time afforded by the mini bye.
Season Struggles and Quarterback Decisions
Smith has had a difficult season, recently throwing his 12th interception—the highest in the NFL. Despite his injury and inconsistent performance, former Raiders linebacker Kirk Morrison believes the team should continue backing Smith as their starting quarterback.
“Geno Smith was hampered, and to not go to at least Kenny Pickett at some point—I thought Kenny Pickett should have an opportunity to try to use his legs a little bit, get out there on the perimeter,” Morrison said on Raiders Postgame Live. “I don’t think bringing back [Aidan O’Connell] right away, coming off of a mini bye. [Smith] came in and started the season; you extended him. You kind of have to go down with him.”
Outlook
The Raiders’ mini bye offers a crucial chance for Smith to recover and potentially regain form before facing the Cowboys.
Author's summary: Despite Geno Smith's injury and recent struggles, former linebacker Kirk Morrison urges the Raiders to maintain their faith in him as starter, highlighting the importance of commitment during challenging times.