Raiders QB Geno Smith Sustains Quad Contusion During Thursday Night Defeat to Broncos
The Raiders quarterback Geno Smith sustained a quad contusion during Thursday’s night game against the Denver Broncos. Despite the pain, he showed resilience by trying to return to the field for his team.
Game Overview and Performance
In the match, Smith completed four passes for 49 yards during a crucial possession for the Raiders. This effort marked the team’s longest drive of the night.
However, a sack and a false start forced the Raiders to punt from midfield back to the Broncos. After Denver’s defense intercepted a pass, Smith spent some time in the medical tent before rejoining the action.
Injury Details and Player Response
Coach Pete Carroll noted Smith’s determination to continue playing, saying, “He wanted to go back in in the worst way.” The injury resulted from a hit to his quad, which left him with a bruise.
Although Smith attempted to return, his mobility was affected, forcing him into mostly handing off plays. The Raiders leaned heavily on running back Ashton Jeanty during this time, opting to run the ball four consecutive times.
Game Outcome
As the game progressed, Smith only attempted a single pass in a critical third down, which was incomplete. Kicker Daniel Carlson then missed a field goal that could have tied the game.
In the game’s closing moments, as Denver worked to drain the clock, the Raiders deemed Smith questionable to return. Carroll confirmed that Smith would not have been fit to continue.
Season Performance and Future Outlook
This defeat left the Raiders at 2-7 for the season, threatening to push them into another four-game losing streak. Smith’s performance has been below expectations compared to his successful 2022 season with Seattle, where he was named the AP NFL Comeback Player of the Year.
After trading to Las Vegas to reunite with Carroll, Smith has accumulated 1,844 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and leads the league with 12 interceptions over nine games. The upcoming mini-bye week is crucial for Smith as he recuperates from his injury.
Looking ahead, the Raiders hope to prepare for their matchup against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football, scheduled for November 17.
