The Las Vegas Raiders had a real chance to get to 2-2 in Week 4 against the Chicago Bears, but let the game slip through their grasp. It was a very winnable game for the Raiders, and they had a chance to win on a game-winning field goal that was blocked.
However, the story of the game is quarterback Geno Smith. He threw three interceptions against the Bears, and now leads the NFL with seven on the season. He also underthrew a pass to Dont’e Thornton that may have resulted in the game-sealing touchdown. Smith has not been good for the Raiders this season, which isn’t what a team wants to see after paying a quarterback $37.5 million a season.
Smith now has two games this season where he’s thrown three interceptions. The Raiders almost certainly beat the Bears if it weren’t for his nightmare performance. The team traded for former first-round pick Kenny Pickett before the season, and many are wondering if it might be time to give him a chance.
“No,” head coach Pete Carroll said when asked if the Raiders considered benching Smith for Pickett during the Bears loss.
It was a close game, so it’s easy to understand why the Raiders wouldn’t make a move, but Smith needs to be better quickly.
At What Point Do Raiders Consider QB Change?
The Raiders traded a fifth-round pick for Pickett, so they have to think somewhat highly of him. He hasn’t proven to be a strong starter, but he does have starting experience.
At this point, the Raiders might just need a quarterback who will protect the ball. The defense and run game were excellent in Week 4, but were let down by Smith.
It’s not often that a single player can be blamed for a loss, but it’s hard not to place the blame for this game at Smith’s feet. Luckily for him, Carroll is still a fan of him. Now, the coach’s whole schtick is that players always have to compete for their jobs. How can you say that to other players when Smith is playing so poorly but not losing his job? If things don’t get better soon, Carroll might not have a choice but to make a move.
Carroll Talks Turnovers
In addition to Smith’s three interceptions, Ashton Jeanty also lost a fumble. That’s four turnovers for the offense. The fact that the team had a chance to win in the end is a miracle.
Carroll spoke about the turnovers and how the defense saved the team.
“You can’t expect to turn the ball over like that and win,” Carroll said. “We overcame it because the defense was spectacular in the first half, making those stops. They were great. The score could have been ridiculous after the first quarter.”
The Raiders are obviously a work in progress, but they could be headed in the right direction. There is some talent on defense, and Jeanty is clearly the real deal. They just need Smith to get back on track or make some big changes.
