The Las Vegas Raiders are shaking things up at quarterback as they prepare to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 6. Head coach Antonio Pierce made the announcement that Gardner Minshew will be replaced by Aidan O’Connell for Sunday’s game.
O’Connell, who had 10 starts for the Raiders last season, has yet to start a game this year but has seen action in two games, including last week’s loss to the Denver Broncos. In his limited appearances, O’Connell has thrown for 176 yards, one touchdown, and one interception with a completion rate of 59.4%. This move comes as Minshew has been struggling as of late.
Minshew, at 28 years old, has started all five games for the Raiders this season, throwing four touchdown passes and five interceptions. He has amassed 1,014 passing yards with a completion rate of 70.7%. After throwing two interceptions in the loss to the Broncos, the Raiders have lost two of their last three games, prompting the change at quarterback for Week 6.
Although O’Connell will get the start, if he falters, there is a possibility for Minshew to reclaim the starting role. For now, however, it appears that Pierce believes O’Connell gives the team the best chance to win. It will be interesting to see how O’Connell performs in his first start of the season against a tough Steelers defense.
