The Oakland Raiders are in the midst of a quarterback controversy with projected starter Matt Flynn and talented backup Terrelle Pryor battling it out for the top spot on the depth chart.
Although Flynn seemingly had the starting job wrapped up heading into the preseason, Pryor has emerged as arguably the better option under center. One of the main reasons for Pryor getting serious consideration as the starter is his mobility. Pryor has played better and better with every passing preseason game displaying an ability to avoid the pass rush and make plays with his feet as well as his arm.
As for Flynn, the veteran and career-backup has struggled. There’s no question Flynn is a talented quarterback, but with the Raiders’ problems on the offensive line, the lack of mobility has hurt his chances of securing the job.
With the quarterback controversy kicking into high gear, we decided to conduct a poll on who should start at quarterback for the Raiders in Week 1 with the following results:
Along with Pryor putting his versatile skill set on display against the Bears, Flynn is currently deal with elbow tendinitis that will keep him sidelined this week. Flynn has dealt with this injury for quite some time and it may ultimately cost him his starting job in Oakland if it persists.
As for Pryor, the starting job under center for the Raiders appears to be his to lose. Pryor will head into Thursday’s game against the Seahawks facing arguably one of the best defenses in the league and the biggest test yet in his NFL career.
Pryor’s performance against the Seahawks’ defense will likely determine the outcome of this quarterback controversy. Head coach Dennis Allen will have the task of cutting this roster to 53 players by Saturday and the decision on who to start at quarterback.
