Raiders QB Smith Injured, Backup Takes Over vs. Broncos

The Las Vegas Raiders faced a critical situation in their Week 14 divisional matchup against the Denver Broncos, potentially losing starting quarterback Geno Smith to a hand injury. Smith initially attempted to play through the injury but was eventually ruled out for the remainder of the game.

Smith's injury occurred on a third-down play where he threw the ball away. After a subsequent punt and the Broncos' drive, he returned to the field. However, during a redzone possession, Smith departed for the locker room, with backup Kenny Pickett taking over quarterback duties. Pickett completed one short pass before an incompletion resulted in a turnover on downs.

The Raiders' quarterback depth chart is further complicated by O'Connell, who serves as the emergency third-string quarterback and would only play if Pickett were also injured. The team also has rookie Cam Miller on the practice squad, who might see playing time in future games for evaluation.