A quarterback controversy in Las Vegas is brewing.
Following a 34-18 Week 5 loss to the Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce did not commit to current starter Gardner Minshew and said "I don't know" when asked if there would be a change at the quarterback position next week.
Minshew was taken out during the loss after going 12-of-17 for 137 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. Aidan O'Connell came in and went 10-of-20 for 94 yards and an interception.
Minshew has played the majority of the 2024 season thus far, throwing for 1,014 yards with four touchdowns and five interceptions. He is in his sixth NFL season and this was his first true starting opportunity.
He earned this after throwing for 3,305 yards with 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions in 14 starts for the Indianapolis Colts in 2023 after assuming the role following an Anthony Richardson injury. His play has not translated over with the Raiders, and O'Connell's experience from 2023 makes him an intriguing option.
O'Connell threw for 2,218 yards with 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions in 2023, which was also his rookie season. While he lost the job to Minshew in training camp, he is still a solid backup and could inject a spark into the struggling team.
Pierce now has some options to juggle in preparation for Week 6 when the Raiders take on the Pittsburgh Steelers.
