Las Vegas Raiders Are Sticking With Struggling QB

Gardner Minshew

The Las Vegas Raiders have struggled mightily on offense this season. Despite that, they’re sticking with their current starting quarterback.

Gardner Minshew has struggled on the field to have much success. Statistically speaking, his counting stats are great. But anybody who’s watched the first three games has seen an offense that hasn’t gotten off the ground.

In 12 quarters, the Las Vegas Raiders offense has looked like an NFL offense for exactly one quarter. That one quarter is a big reason why they’re 1-2 instead of 0-3. Last week, they turned to Aidan O’Connell who looked good in relief but they aren’t continuing with him.

Minshew Hasn’t Been Consistent

Las Vegas Raiders Gardner Minshew
Sep 22, 2024; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew (15) throws the ball against the Carolina Panthers in the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

A big problem with the passing game is that Minshew hasn’t been a consistent quarterback. Last week, he was constantly missing open receivers. Brock Bowers and Davante Adams combined in week two’s win for 220 yards on 18 catches. Both were still getting open in week three but didn’t get the football until garbage time. When Minshew’s had time to pass the ball, he’s struggled. He appears indecisive on where to go with the football and is pressing to make plays. It’s led to sacks, interceptions, business decisions, and painful losses.

O’Connell Isn’t Getting A Shot, Yet

The Las Vegas Raiders did turn to O’Connell late against Carolina last Sunday. But it appears they have more faith in the veteran Minshew. That is despite O’Connell going 9/12 for 82 yards and a touchdown in relief.  O’Connell also was the quarterback last season when Pierce took over. While Minshew is a veteran and is more mobile, O’Connell is a pure pocket passer. It’s possible that the Las Vegas Raiders need a quarterback who’s more accurate with football.

Luke Getsy’s Offense Needs To Make Adjustments

Some of the blame isn’t on Minshew’s feet. While he has been missing open receivers, the offense itself has been an issue. Luke Getsy’s offense has appeared elementary at times as there’s been a lot of plays where receivers are running basic concepts into tight coverage. The screen passes to Jakobi Meyers haven’t been working either but they call a lot of them. For some reason, most of those screens end up with Adams as the only blocker. Having your best playmakers as lead blockers isn’t a good idea, and it’ll cause some fans to finally panic.

Lack of Running Game Isn’t Helping

One thing that has hurt the Las Vegas Raiders more than anything is a lack of a running game. They need to make changes to the running game. That could mean switching starters, changing the scheme, or altering playcalling.  The Las Vegas Raiders want to be a physical run-first team that pounds the rock. Unfortunately, they’re 32nd in rushing in the NFL. The lack of a running game and the team’s insistence on forcing the running game is their biggest weakness. The upcoming season will clear all the doubts and questions people have regarding the Raiders.

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