The Las Vegas Raiders are coming off their bye week with significant changes to their coaching staff. The team parted ways with three offensive staff members, including offensive coordinator Luke Getsy. Scott Turner was named the Interim Offensive Coordinator, and his father, Norv Turner, was brought in as an advisor. However, one position that remains unchanged is quarterback, where head coach Antonio Pierce announced that the team will stick with veteran Gardner Minshew, despite him being benched three times in the first nine games of the season. Pierce’s announcement, however, lacked much conviction. “What do we got to lose at this point, right?” Pierce said, per Tashan Reed of The Athletic. “We’re 2-7… I’m looking forward.”The Las Vegas Raiders Are Expressing Similar Views
While Minshew may be grateful for the chance to start, some fans have begun speculating that he might actually contribute more to the team’s struggles than Desmond Ridder would. Despite joining the Raiders in late October and being subbed out multiple times, Minshew has not yet secured the starting role. This has led to speculation that the Raiders may be intentionally aiming for a lower draft pick. One fan wrote, “Good. Minshew gives them the best chance to lose.” Another added, “Committed to the tank. Respect.” A third fan pointed out, “Translation: Ridder gives us the best chance to win games, but Minshew gives us the best chance to get the first pick in the draft.”
Whether Ridder is actually better than Minshew is still unclear, as both quarterbacks have faced struggles in their careers. More importantly, neither is considered part of the Raiders’ long-term plans. Given this, it could make sense for the team to evaluate both quarterbacks in the final stretch of the season to determine who might be the better backup for whoever the Raiders draft or sign in the offseason. As of now, the team is projected to have the No. 5 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
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