Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell‘s promising start to the season was abruptly halted by a thumb injury sustained during the first quarter of their 20-15 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The injury, which occurred while attempting a long pass, forced O’Connell to the sidelines, leaving the team’s offensive hopes in the hands of Gardner Minshew.
O’Connell’s Injury Sets Back Raiders
O’Connell was hurt when his right hand smacked the hand of Rams safety Kam Curl while throwing a long pass. Adding insult to injury, O’Connell was penalized for intentional grounding on the play. “It was super unfortunate,” he said. “I was really looking forward to today and this opportunity, and so for it to be cut short like that was definitely hard.”
O’Connell stayed in for the last offensive snap of the drive, completing a short pass to wide receiver DJ Turner on third-and-21, but the second-year QB from Purdue said his thumb was already numb. After the game, O’Connell had his thumb in a splint, which was covered with black tape. The 26-year-old said the extent of the injury would not be known until they return to Las Vegas for further examination, “but (was) hoping for some good news,” he added, having dealt with a similar injury in middle school.
Minshew’s Turnover Woes Plague Raiders
Gardner Minshew, who had taken over as the starting quarterback earlier in the season, struggled mightily in his return to the field as being replaced by O’Connell this month. He committed a staggering four turnovers, including three interceptions and a fumble returned for a touchdown. These costly mistakes significantly hindered the Raiders’ chances of securing a victory.
Minshew threw three interceptions and lost a fumble that was returned for a touchdown late in the first half. His first two picks led to a pair of Rams’ touchdown runs, and the last came with 1:18 remaining as Minshew tried to lead a go-ahead drive. “No, that’s on me, man,” Minshew said. “That’s unacceptable to have that many turnovers. I got to be smarter with the ball. To have a game where we lose by five points and have four turnovers, like that’s critical, and it’s unfair to the rest of the team.”
Raiders’ Offensive Struggles Continue
O’Connell acknowledged the struggling offense, which was playing for the first time since wide receiver Davante Adams was traded to the New York Jets. The loss to the Rams further highlighted the Raiders’ offensive woes, which have been exacerbated by the recent departures or injury of key players like Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers. The team’s inability to protect the football and capitalize on scoring opportunities has been a major factor in their disappointing performance this season.
Looking Ahead
As the Raiders navigate through these challenging times, they will need to find a way to improve their offensive execution and limit turnovers. Minshew said it was the worst run of ball security in his career. “It’s super frustrating,” he said. “I’ve never turned the ball over like this in my life. It’s just very frustrating. So just gotta keep looking at it, keep studying and keep training good habits, and we’re going to find a way out of this.” The team’s hopes for a turnaround will depend on the severity of O’Connell’s injury and the ability of Minshew to regain his form and protect the football.
