The concern for the Raiders when they signed quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo was his injury history, and that has already begun to bear itself out. Garoppolo has missed two games and been knocked out of a third, with the team turning to veteran Brian Hoyer and rookie Aidan O’Connell in his absence.
A back injury knocked Garoppolo out at halftime of the Raiders’ Week 6 win over the New England Patriots, and he was ruled out for Week 7 against the Chicago Bears. The Raiders put forth an embarrassing performance in Chicago, however, with Hoyer starting and throwing two interceptions while O’Connell came in late and threw one himself.
Now at 3-4, the Raiders have a huge contest on Monday Night next week in Detroit against a strong Lions team coming off an embarrassing loss themselves. But according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Garoppolo is expected to be back in uniform for that game:
Raiders QB Jimmy Garoppolo, who already has been ruled out for Sunday’s game vs. the Bears, is expected to be ready to play next Monday night’s game in Detroit vs. the Lions, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 21, 2023
The Raiders’ offense still has yet to get on track this season, failing to score 20 points in a single game so far. It is not for lack of talent, as the Raiders have dynamic playmakers throughout the offense, but they have been unable to unlock that potential. Getting consistent play from the quarterback position is a must, and Garoppolo offers the team’s best chance at that, but he has to stay on the field.
When he is on the field, Garoppolo also must do a much better job at taking care of the ball, as do the Raiders as a whole. Garoppolo is tied for the league lead in interceptions despite missing two full games and a half of a third. As a team, the Raiders lead the entire NFL with 15 turnovers, including four different games with three turnovers.
Going into Detroit to take on the Lions next Monday night will be a huge test for the Raiders. The Lions have one of the best offenses in the league and can put up points in a hurry. Additionally, they have an improved defense that has come up big at times this year.
Both the Raiders and Lions are coming off disappointing performances and want to make everyone forget about Week 7. Jimmy Garoppolo being back under center for the Raiders, and playing to the best of his ability, gives this team a chance to pull off an upset on the road.
