With the new NFL season on the horizon, all eyes were on Las Vegas Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce regarding the starting QB role. But after the Raiders loss to the Cowboys 27-12, Pierce was yet to make a decision. Speaking with the reporters, the Raiders HC stated, “he’d sleep on it and make a decision in the next couple of days.”

But as reported by Ian Rapoport of National Insider for NFL Network, Antonio Pierce has made his decision. He has chosen Gardner Minshew as the team’s starting QB while Aidan O’Connell waits for his chance. This news might not be surprising, as Minshew had a slightly better outing in the preseason opener against the Vikings. Minshew finished the game with 6-of-12 for 117 yards with a touchdown to his name. However, O’Connell only managed to rack up 7-of-9 for 76 yards as the Raiders narrowly lost by 24-23.

As week 1 of the regular season approaches, the Raiders are scheduled to face the Los Angeles Chargers. But all eyes will be on the Pro Bowler, who has been handed the opportunity to lead the Raiders from his position in the upcoming NFL season under Antonio Pierce.

Can Gardner Minshew repay the trust shown by Antonio Pierce?

Minshew, who signed his two-year contract worth $25 million back in March, could have been already on the radar for Pierce’s starting QB role. However, upon confirming his decision, Pierce stated, “A lot of things went into it. It wasn’t based off last night. There are a lot of factors. So, we feel like Gardner gives us the best opportunity to get off to a fast start, and that’s what we’re going with.” 

To offer more context behind his choice, Pierce pointed out the Pro-Bowler’s experience. Playing his sixth season in the NFL, having started 37 games while boasting a record of 15-22, Minshew could be the right man to lead the Raiders’ offense this season. Having joined the Jacksonville Jaguars back in 2019 for his rookie season, the QB faced a similar situation. He only used to get chances whenever Nick Foles was out injured.

But his dedication and talents were finally rewarded when he got the chance to start the 2020 NFL season as the Jaguars QB1. From there on, he shined in his career while receiving his first Pro Bowler nod last season after racking up 15 TDs and nine interceptions while boasting a passing average of 62.2% playing for the Colts.

Looking at his NFL tenure, Minshew knows the expectations that come with a starting opportunity. However, can he deliver upon those hopes while the Raiders aim for a return to playoff contention after their 2021 defeat at the hands of the Bengals?