Geno Smith
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Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback Geno Smith is already proving he's worth the $75 million investment.
The Las Vegas Raiders opened the new era with a statement win, defeating the New England Patriots 20-13 behind a stellar performance from quarterback Geno Smith.
Making his first start in Silver and Black, Smith wasted no time etching his name into franchise history. He threw for 362 yards on 24-of-34 passing with one touchdown and one interception, completing 70 percent of his throws with the team having nine explosive plays.
That effort made him the first quarterback in Raiders history to top 350 yards with at least a 70 percent completion rate in his debut.
For perspective, Rich Gannon, one of the most accomplished quarterbacks to ever wear the Raiders uniform, managed to accomplish that feat just three times across 74 starts. Derek Carr, the franchise’s all-time leader in several categories, only did it once in 142 starts.
Smith accomplished the feat on day one.
Geno Smith Proves His Worth in the Raiders’ Victory
Geno Smith
GettyLas Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith.
The Raiders’ offense thrived on explosive plays, and after trailing at halftime, Smith kept the offense composed and efficient, leading the Raiders to outscore New England 13-0 in the second half until the Patriots’ late score with just 19 seconds left.
More than just numbers, Smith made the offense efficient, and one that wasn’t panicking 24/7.
Following the game, Smith praised the team’s resilience, saying, “Extremely proud of the guys. First of all, it’s always a blessing to get a win in the NFL…I think the message that coach [Pete Carroll] sends us is that ‘You gotta stay even-kill and never pass judgment. Four-quarter game you gotta go play.'”
A Major Acquisition for Las Vegas
Smith’s performance wasn’t just a strong debut; it was a validation of the Raiders’ gamble to trade and reward him with a two-year, $75 million extension.
After resurrecting his career in Seattle and proving he could be a top-tier starter, Smith entered Las Vegas with a clear understanding of who he is as a quarterback.
“I know who I am and what I can do,” Smith stated after the game. A reminder that his confidence and veteran experience are invaluable to a team looking to reestablish itself as a contender.
Carroll echoed that sentiment, calling Smith “a star player in the NFL” and emphasizing how long he has been producing at a high level. Coming from a coach who has worked with some of the league’s most successful quarterbacks, the endorsement carries weight.
Smith’s ability to thrive immediately in Carroll’s system is further proof that the Raiders may have found the steady hand they’ve been searching for.
Beyond the statistics, Smith’s presence changes the trajectory of the franchise. He gives Las Vegas a quarterback who can make plays at all three levels of the field while also elevating his teammates. Against New England, multiple receivers benefited from his accuracy and anticipation, helping the Raiders string together drives that consistently challenged the Patriots’ defense.
For a team searching for stability and a winning identity, Geno Smith’s arrival is both a solution and a spark. The Raiders are 1-0, and their star QB looks every bit like the bright spot they’ve been missing.