Aidan O'Connell (QB) entered the game last Sunday against the Broncos. The performance of Gardner Minshew (QB) with his two interceptions clearly did not satisfy Antonio Pierce (HC). Although he didn't do much better with a 10/20 stats sheet for 94 yards and 1 interception, O'Connell nevertheless convinced his coach. He therefore collects the keys to the truck, at least for the upcoming match against the Steelers. Pierce announced it this Wednesday in a press conference via ESPN. Initially, he planned to put his two quarterbacks against each other during the weekly training session. Ultimately this will not happen and the decision seems final. Pierce added that he doesn't plan to juggle Minshew and O'Connell.
After a mixed start to the season with two wins for three losses and the transfer request from Davante Adams (WR), an electric shock was necessary. Will it be enough to revive Las Vegas?
An overview of the O'Connell experience
The Raiders brought in Minshew in the offseason for two years and $25 million. Proof of the meager confidence that management and staff placed in Aidan O'Connell at the end of his rookie season. In 11 appearances in 2023, the former Purdue player has a record of 5 wins and 5 losses. He completed 62% of his passes for 2,218 yards, 12 touchdowns and 7 interceptions (as well as a rushing touchdown). It was Antonio Pierce who installed him as starter when he took up the interim position. In 2024, he chose Minshew over O'Connell after putting them in competition during the preseason and training camps. O'Connell appeared in two games this season for 176 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception.
The context and the numbers really don't seem favorable to Aidan O'Connell. He is certainly not a quarterback of the future for the Raiders, who should instead start looking towards the draft. However, he is only a sophomore and in his last four games last season, he finished rather strong with 8 touchdowns and no interceptions. A very thin glimmer of hope that Raiders fans must cling to to hope for something other than a sad and gloomy end to the season.
