Concerns starting to arise about Geno Smith after rough game

Quarterback problems have plagued the Las Vegas Raiders over the past few seasons, and the latest answer in Geno Smith has done little so far to stop the bleeding.

When Smith was traded to the Raiders from the Seattle Seahawks back in March, many figured that the team was on the right track. Smith had done wonders with head coach Pete Carroll before, and all signs pointed that the Raiders had found a solid short-term option while they found a franchise quarterback later. However, the first month of the season has only raised more questions, with Smith currently leading the NFL with seven interceptions in four games.

After throwing three picks against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, some are now viewing Smith with a more critical lens.

Analysts are worried that Smith is not the quarterback to lead the Raiders to the next level.

The 25-24 loss to the Bears opened the door for criticism, and ESPN’s Ryan McFadden could not help but share his concerns.

“The Smith experience hasn’t gone as expected,” wrote McFadden. “He threw three interceptions, with two resulting in points for Chicago. His first pick helped set up a field goal in the first quarter. Later, Smith was picked off by cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, leading to Bears quarterback Caleb Williams completing a touchdown pass to wide receiver Rome Odunze. Smith was given a chance to ice the game, but his throw to wide receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr. was slightly underthrown, resulting in an incompletion and a field goal. Smith’s turnover issues should be a cause for concern moving forward.”

Now sitting at 1-3 to start the season, the Raiders now face an uncomfortable reality.

Smith was brought in to help the Raiders be competitive, but the turnover issues have lead them to drop two games now. With the AFC West being as difficult as advertised, the margin for error is incredibly slim. The Raiders cannot afford to make many more mistakes, and Smith is going to hold responsibility for ensuring that.

Otherwise, the Raiders run the risk of falling out of contention early, and they will be right back to the drawing board at the game’s most important position.