The Oakland Raiders were expecting to hear some promising news on Thursday with quarterback Terrelle Pryor returning to practice following concussion tests. Despite the fact Pryor returning to the field, Matt Flynn received first team reps and will more than likely start on Sunday against the Washington Redskins.
According to NFL Insider Adam Schefter via Twitter, Pryor is unlikely to play in Week 4:
Raiders QB Terrelle Pryor, who suffered a concussion Monday night, is unlikely to play Sunday vs. Washington, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 26, 2013
With Pryor potentially out for Sunday’s game, head coach Dennis Allen and company will turn to Flynn to shoulder the load under center. Flynn lost the starting job at the quarterback position for the second year in a row during the preseason.
Last season, Flynn was stuck on the bench holding a clipboard for the Seattle Seahawks after being beat out by rookie Russell Wilson. As a result of Wilson emerging as a star last year, the Seahawks decided to trade Flynn to the Raiders who were looking to replace veteran Carson Palmer.
Heading to Oakland, Flynn expected to be the starter for the Raiders. Unfortunately, the same scenario played out with a younger and more athletic quarterback emerging as the better option.
In Week 4, Flynn will likely have the opportunity to show the coaching staff, fans and the horrific Redskins defense what he can do. With Flynn as strictly a pocket passer, the Raiders offense will look much different and might be able to flourished against Washington.
Currently, the Redskins defense ranks 31st in both pass and run defense. Even though Robert Griffin III and company are desperate for a win, the Raiders are poised to get back to .500 at home on Sunday regardless of the player under center.
