Barring Major Change, Raiders Made Costly Mistake at Quarterback with Geno Smith
The Raiders’ disappointing start stems largely from the performance of quarterback Geno Smith, the player in whom coach Pete Carroll and new general manager John Spytek placed their early trust. During a game against the Chicago Bears at Allegiant Stadium, Smith was seen in discussion with Carroll, reflecting the pressure surrounding the team’s offensive struggles.
After the team’s bye week, Smith appeared mentally renewed. However, frustration had clearly built up through Las Vegas’s 2–5 season start, during which the Raiders suffered the league’s second-worst point differential, being outscored by an average of 11 points per game.
At 35 years old and in his 13th NFL season, Smith faced criticism for a downturn in accountability as losses accumulated. He attributed part of his struggles—including a league-high 10 interceptions—to misfortune and the inexperience of younger teammates.
Following the break, Smith’s tone shifted as he spoke more positively in his first press conference in ten days, held at the Raiders’ Henderson facility. The veteran committed himself to reshaping the team’s trajectory.
“It starts with me,” Smith said of revitalizing the offense. “It starts with me getting the ball out of my hands and playing efficiently, playing the right way.”
Author’s Summary
Geno Smith’s renewed mindset offers hope for the struggling Raiders after a turbulent start marked by turnovers and mounting frustration.