Raiders News: Gardner Minshew Talks QB Competition With Aidan O’Connell

Corey Hansford
Corey Hansford
3 Min Read
Dec 10, 2023; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O'Connell (4) is greeted by fans during the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The biggest story coming into Las Vegas Raiders training camp is the quarterback battle between Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew. With hopes of a postseason run and a ton of offensive talent, getting the right person under center is absolutely imperative.

While O’Connell showed some flashes last season and looked very competent as a rookie, Minshew has much more experience overall and nearly led the Indianapolis Colts to the playoffs last year. But regardless of who ultimately comes out on top, the veteran plans on helping the Raiders in any way he can.

Minshew recently spoke on the battle between himself and O’Connell, noting that it will be tough and only one of them can win, but both will do whatever they can to make the Raiders better, via Raiders Newswire’s own Ryan Ward:

Minshew would continue on, adding that whoever can better lead this team to wins will be the one under center when the season gets underway, via Ward:

The battle will be closely watched, and head coach Antonio Pierce and offensive coordinator Luke Getsy will take everything into consideration before making their decision. But it is certainly good to hear that even if he loses, Minshew won’t be holding his head down but rather will continue to try and help the Raiders win.

The Raiders have the potential to be a playoff team, but only if they get good play from the quarterback position. Whether it is Minshew or O’Connell, the pressure will be on them to perform once the season begins.

Raiders coach Antonio Pierce gives update on QB battle between Gardner Minshew & Aidan O’Connell

Coming into training camp, there were some who may have felt that Aidan O’Connell may have a little leg up in the competition with Gardner Minshew as he finished last season as the Raiders starter and has more of a rapport with his teammates. But head coach Antonio Pierce made it clear that isn’t the case.

Pierce recently said that neither Minshew nor O’Connell has an advantage at this time while adding that he, offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, and general manager Tom Telesco will all be involved in making the final decision.

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Corey Hansford is the Senior Editor for Lakers Nation, as well as a contributor for Dodger Blue, Rams News Wire, and Raiders News Wire. He is a passionate follower of the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chelsea FC, and the UFC. He can usually be seen arguing the merits of Kobe Bryant or cursing the decisions of Jerry Jones. He is also a former producer and associate producer for Sirius XM Sports Radio on both the Fantasy Sports Channel and College Sports Nation. Proud graduate of Long Beach Poly High School and The Real HU, Howard University, with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. Follow him on all social media outlets at @TheeCoreyH.