The Las Vegas Raiders suffered a gut-wrenching 25-24 loss to the Chicago Bears on Sunday, capped by a last-minute blocked field goal. Despite the close score, quarterback Geno Smith’s struggles were the real story. Smith completed 14-of-21 passes for 117 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions, halting Las Vegas’ momentum and leaving fans questioning the team’s quarterback situation.
Carroll Stands Firm Against Geno Smith Rumors
Amid mounting trade and replacement rumors, Raiders head coach Pete Carroll is not ready to bench Smith for backup Kenny Pickett. “No. Nope. We’re not there,” Carroll said, via Ezekiel Trezevant of Sports Illustrated. Carroll emphasized the team’s resilience despite turnovers: “You can’t expect to turn the ball over like that and win. It doesn’t happen, but we overcame it because the defense was so spectacular in the first half making those stops…we learn.”
Smith’s interceptions came at critical junctures, including the first drive, a fumble after being sacked alongside running back Ashton Jeanty, and a second pick before halftime. Despite this, Las Vegas held a 14-9 lead at the half. The third interception early in the second half highlighted the challenges Smith faces.
Geno Smith Breaks Down His Performance
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Following the loss, Smith addressed his interceptions candidly. “The first two, I thought Kevin [Byard III] made great plays…The last one was just a terrible throw. And the reality is, again, I’m better than that,” Smith said. The veteran quarterback now has seven interceptions on the season, the most in the NFL.
He acknowledged the need for self-improvement: “Number one, take care of the ball and not throw interceptions…Our team only going to get better, offense is only going to get better, and I’m for damn sure going to get better. I ain’t hanging my head about nothing. But I am frustrated. I am upset the way that I turned the ball over and gave those guys chances.”
Early Season Challenges
The Raiders are 1-3 for the second time in three seasons, underscoring a rocky start despite offseason changes. Carroll and Smith remain confident that improvement is coming, stressing process and preparation as keys to turning the season around. With a veteran quarterback leading the offense and a defense capable of spectacular stops, Las Vegas hopes to capitalize on the lessons learned from this narrow defeat.
While questions about Smith’s future persist, the Raiders are holding firm, trusting experience and continuity as they attempt to right the ship before the season slips further away.