Why Change is Not Out of the Question for Raiders

It was another frustrating loss for the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 4. This loss came down to one point and the Raiders could not capitalize on the opportunity to pull this one off. It was more frustrating because it was a game that should not have come down to a field goal kick that got blocked for the Silver and Black.

This turned out to be a game the Raiders won comfortably. The Raiders outplayed their opponent in almost every area. But there was one thing that kept the opponent in the game.

It was the decision-making of the Raiders' starting quarterback, Geno Smith. Smith had another horrible day at the position and at home. Smith threw another three interceptions against a team without a top defense. These were interceptions you should not be seeing from your veteran quarterback. Right out of the gate on the Raiders' first possession, Smith threw his first, and it was an easy read by the safety.

Sep 28, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) runs the ball during the first quarter against the Chicago Bears at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images | Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Time to Bench Geno Smith?

Then the next one came almost the same way and by the same player. He baited Smith to throw another pick. It was not a good sight to see from Smith. Then Smith went on to throw another interception. He is the leader in that category in the whole NFL. You had to question why head coach Pete Carroll did not bench Smith after his third interception. Now the tough question has to be asked and answered by this coaching staff and team.

This staff has to consider making a change at the quarterback position. What the Raiders are getting from Smith is unacceptable. And it is happening the way it is, which makes it look bad. The Raiders have backup quarterback Kenny Pickett, who has good experience as a starter in this league. It has to be considered by this coaching staff. But it has to come from Carroll; he is the one who makes the final decisions. And it also comes down to Pickett knowing the offense.

Sep 21, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll stands on the sidelines against the Washington Commanders during the third quarter at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

If Smith remains the starter, he has to show improvement, which he has not shown from the beginning of the season. His play costs the Raiders most of these games. A lot of pressure can be on Carroll, because Smith is his guy, and he picked him to lead this team. Smith has to play better and not be the reason this team continues to lose.

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