We are already preparing for 2023 in Las Vegas. Not yet mathematically eliminated from the AFC playoff race (12th with a 6-9 record), Josh McDaniels has decided to rotate the Raiders’ squad for the end of the season, starting Sunday’s game against the 49ers. Quarterback Derek Carr is not spared, and it is Jarrett Stidham (26) who will take the reins of the Vegas attack.
Carr’s season could therefore end with statistics of 60.8% pass completion (worst rate since his rookie season), 3,522 yards thrown (lowest total since 2017) for 24 TD and 14 interceptions (personal best on a season). A season to forget for the 31-year-old pitcher who nevertheless saw the arrival of superstar receiver (and former university teammate) Davante Adams last summer to turn a corner.
Jarrett Stidham is no stranger to Josh McDaniels. Indeed, the Raiders’ head coach brought Stidham back in his suitcases when he left New England, where the young quarterback was drafted in 2019 (4th round). Replacing Tom Brady, he never managed to win in Massachusetts, being confined to the bench behind Cam Newton then Mac Jones.
Against the 49ers, the league’s best defense statistically, it will be his first career start. A real baptism of fire for the former Auburn.
