Kenny Pickett named starter for this weekend’s game shifts QB market — expect bettors to reassess props and spreads. With Geno Smith sidelined, Pickett’s uncertain ceiling suggests more action on the under for team totals and on the Eagles as favorites; consider limiting same-game quick-hit pass-yardage or TD props until tape confirms Pickett’s live-game form.
Kenny Pickett to Start Against Eagles
Kenny Pickett will be the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders against the Philadelphia Eagles this weekend, coach Pete Carroll announced on Friday. He steps in for Geno Smith, who did not practice this week after suffering shoulder and hand injuries during last week’s loss to the Denver Broncos.
Geno Smith Injury Update
“Geno won’t make it back,” Carroll said. “He tried. Couldn’t get it done in this amount of time.” Smith’s absence leaves the offense turning to Pickett for a critical divisional matchup and forces adjustments to the game plan.
Coach’s Assessment of Pickett
Carroll praised Pickett’s preparation and mindset. “The expectation I’ve held for backup quarterbacks in the past, they’ve got to be on it every day,” Carroll said. “They’ve got to work every day ... They need the mentality that the very next play, they may be in there. Kenny’s done that well. We talked about it way back when, he’s done everything we could ask of him. He had an excellent week. He’s in command of what we’re doing, communications are good and all that. Got a little East Coast in him, so that won’t hurt. We’ll support him in every way that we can to have a good game.”
What This Means for the Game Plan
Expect fewer high-risk downfield plays early as coaches evaluate Pickett in live-game conditions. The offense may lean more on short-to-intermediate routes, play-action when possible, and a steadier rushing attack to build confidence for the backup QB. Defensively, opponents might apply more pressure to test Pickett’s decision-making under duress.
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