The Las Vegas Raiders are coming off their bye week, having made significant changes to their coaching staff. The team decided to let go of three offensive staff members, including offensive coordinator Luke Getsy. Scott Turner has been appointed as the Interim Offensive Coordinator, with his father, Norv Turner, joining in an advisory capacity.
One change that interim head coach Antonio Pierce didn’t make was at quarterback. Despite Gardner Minshew being benched three times in the first nine games, Pierce announced on Wednesday they’d continue with him as the starter. His statement wasn’t particularly reassuring: “What do we got to lose at this point, right?” Pierce said, per Tashan Reed of *The Athletic*. “We’re 2-7…I’m looking forward.”
While Minshew may be eager for the opportunity, some fans speculate his continued presence signals a “tanking” strategy over playing Desmond Ridder. Minshew, who joined the team in late October, hasn’t seized the starting role despite Ridder’s own struggles, which has fueled talk among fans that he may help secure a higher draft position.
“Good. Minshew gives them the best chance to lose,” one fan commented. Another added, “Committed to the tank. Respect.” A third remarked, “Translation to ‘Ridder gives us the best chance to win games, but Minshew gives us the best chance to get the first pick in the draft.'”
Regardless of whether Ridder is better than Minshew, both have struggled throughout their careers and are unlikely to be part of the Raiders’ long-term plans. However, playing each down the stretch could help the team determine who might serve as a reliable backup for whoever they draft or sign in the offseason. Currently, the Raiders are projected to hold the No. 5 pick in the NFL Draft.
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