Barring major change, Raiders made costly mistake at quarterback with Geno Smith

The biggest culprit for the Raiders’ poor start is the play from the quarterback whom coach Pete Carroll and new general manager John Spytek decided to pin their hopes on to start their tenures.

Raiders quarterback Geno Smith listens to coach Pete Carroll before a game against the Chicago Bears at Allegiant Stadium.

The Raiders’ bye week appears to have done wonders for quarterback Geno Smith — at least mentally. The 35-year-old veteran’s frustration became evident amid Las Vegas’ 2-5 season start, a stretch marked by the league's second-worst point differential as the Raiders were outscored by an average of 11 points per game.

Smith’s accountability slipped as losses accumulated, with him blaming bad luck for his league-leading 10 interceptions and attributing offensive struggles to youth.

However, Smith appeared more positive and refreshed during his first news conference in 10 days at the team’s Henderson headquarters on Wednesday afternoon. The 13-year NFL veteran reaffirmed his commitment to turning the Raiders into winners.

“It starts with me,” Smith said of sparking 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 early struggles have cost the Raiders, but his renewed focus and commitment may prove pivotal in reversing the team’s downward trajectory.

Would you like the summary to be more neutral or motivational in tone?

Las Vegas Sun — 2025-11-01

Barring major change, Raiders made costly mistake at quarterback with Geno Smith

More News