The Las Vegas Raiders surprised fans again on Wednesday with their choice at quarterback for Week 11. Head coach Antonio Pierce confirmed that Gardner Minshew will remain the starter, despite speculation earlier in the week that Desmond Ridder might take over. Ridder stepped in for Minshew during the second half of the Raiders’ Week 9 loss to Cincinnati, leading to talk of a potential change.
After a bye week to reconsider their options, the team ultimately chose to stick with Minshew, who has had a challenging season with a 2-5 record as a starter, throwing eight interceptions and only six touchdowns. Ridder was signed from the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad on Oct. 22, raising hopes that he might bring a fresh approach.
With Aidan O’Connell sidelined due to a hand injury, the Raiders are left with Minshew and Ridder as quarterback options. The team heads to Miami for a matchup against the Dolphins, having lost their last five games. While the Raiders insist they’re not aiming for a high draft pick, their current trajectory may make that outcome inevitable.