It’s Minshew Mania time in Sin City.
The Las Vegas Raiders are making Gardner Minshew the team’s starting quarterback going into the season, head coach Antonio Pearce said Sunday.
Minshew beat out Aidan O’Connell for the starting spot. Minshew threw for 117 yards and a touchdown in the Raiders’ pre-season opener but struggled in the second game, completing 10-of-21 passes for 95 yards.
O’Connell was more efficient than Minshew against Dallas on Saturday going 14-of-20 for 96 yards with a five-yard touchdown pass. He also threw an interception that was returned for a 69-yard pick-six.
The veteran Minshew joined the Raiders and signed to a two-year, $25 million deal with $15 million guaranteed.
Pearce said he needed to sleep on the decision, with both quarterbacks showing positives during camp.
O’Connell took over as the team’s starting quarterback last season, going 5-5 and throwing for 2,218 yards, 12 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He was selected in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
The Raiders host the San Francisco 49ers on Friday in their final pre-season game.
The Las Vegas Raiders made a surprising announcement at the beginning of the 2024 NFL season, naming Gardner Minshew as their starting quarterback. This decision came as a shock to many fans and analysts, as Minshew was not considered a frontrunner for the position. However, after an impressive preseason performance and strong showing in training camp, the coaching staff felt confident in his ability to lead the team.
Minshew, who was acquired by the Raiders in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, brings a unique skill set to the quarterback position. Known for his accuracy, mobility, and leadership on the field, he has quickly won over his teammates and coaches with his work ethic and determination. Despite facing some skepticism from critics, Minshew has proven himself to be a capable and reliable quarterback.
The decision to start Minshew over other quarterbacks on the roster was not taken lightly by the coaching staff. Head coach Jon Gruden and offensive coordinator Greg Olson spent weeks evaluating the players and weighing their options before ultimately deciding that Minshew gave the team the best chance to win. His chemistry with the receivers, command of the offense, and ability to make quick decisions under pressure were all factors that played into their decision.
As the starting quarterback for the Raiders, Minshew will be tasked with leading the team to success in a highly competitive AFC West division. With tough opponents like the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers on the schedule, he will need to be at the top of his game in order to secure victories for his team. However, with his talent and determination, many believe that Minshew is up to the challenge and will excel in his new role.
Overall, the decision to name Gardner Minshew as the starting quarterback for the Raiders at the beginning of the 2024 season was a bold move that has sparked excitement among fans and players alike. With his skills and leadership abilities, Minshew has the potential to lead the team to success and make a name for himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the league. Only time will tell if he can rise to the occasion and help the Raiders achieve their goals for the season.