Who Should I Start? Geno Smith or Jarrett Stidham

Friday, November 7, 12:34 AM

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (quad) was diagnosed with a quad contusion following Thursday's Week 10 loss against the Denver Broncos, head coach Pete Carroll told members of the media, including NFL.com's Ian Rapoport. Smith briefly exited the game early in the fourth quarter and was replaced by Kenny Pickett, who attempted one pass. The veteran quarterback returned to the game, then left again with a "questionable" designation in the final minutes. Las Vegas did not get the ball back, and it's unclear whether Smith or Pickett would have earned snaps if the Raiders' offense returned to the field. The 35-year-old completed 16 of 26 passes for 143 yards and his league-leading 12th interception of the season. He also took six sacks. It remains to be seen whether Smith will play in Week 11. On a positive note, playing on Thursday night gives him a full 11 days to rest and recover before the Raiders return to action against Dallas.

Sunday, August 17, 11:27 AM

Denver Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham got the start in the team's second preseason game on Saturday against the visiting Arizona Cardinals and looked amazing, going 16-for-23 passing for 240 yards and two touchdowns in the 27-7 victory. Starter Bo Nix got this game off, so Stidham saw most of the action under center before giving way to Sam Ehlinger late. Rookie receiver Pat Bryant was one of Stidham's favorite targets, as he hooked up with him four times for 70 yards. Second-year pass-catcher Troy Franklin was his other favorite target, and both of his TDs went to the Oregon product. The 29-year-old Stidham signed a two-year, $12 million contract with Denver back in March to return as Nix's backup in 2025 and beyond. Based on the way Stidham looked on Saturday, Denver's offense could still be decent this year if Nix misses time with injury.