Barring Major Change, Raiders Made Costly Mistake at Quarterback with Geno Smith
The Raiders’ struggles this season largely stem from the quarterback play of Geno Smith, whom coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek chose to lead their new era.
During the matchup against the Chicago Bears at Allegiant Stadium, Smith listened closely to Carroll’s guidance. Despite the midseason bye week seemingly improving his mindset, the veteran’s frustration had become apparent amid Las Vegas’ 2–5 start, where the team had the league’s second-worst point differential, averaging 11 points fewer than opponents.
As defeats mounted, Smith’s accountability seemed to fade. He often attributed his NFL-leading 10 interceptions to bad luck and pointed to the team’s youth as a reason for the offense’s poor execution.
However, following the break, Smith appeared rejuvenated during his first press conference in ten days at the team’s Henderson facility. The 13-year veteran reaffirmed his focus on turning the Raiders into a winning team.
“It starts with me,” Smith said of reviving the offense. “It starts with me getting the ball out of my hands and playing efficiently, playing the right way.”
Author’s Summary
Geno Smith’s renewed mindset after the bye week offers hope, but his earlier struggles underscore the Raiders’ costly gamble at quarterback.