Biggest Overreactions to Ben Johnson, NFL’s New Head Coaches Through Week 2

The Las Vegas Raiders are 1-1 and just played a competitive game against the rival Los Angeles Chargers. However, Geno Smith’s three interceptions doomed Las Vegas on Monday night and quickly triggered a cascade of memes on social media.

Several Raiders fans are likely wondering whether it was wise for new head coach Pete Carroll to bring in his old friend at quarterback. Carroll knew the two-time Pro Bowler well from their time with the Seattle Seahawks, obviously, but there was a reason why Seattle was willing to move off of Smith and sign Sam Darnold.

Was Carroll’s desire to reunite with Smith instead of exploring other options a mistake? Not at all.

Smith, who leads the NFL with four interceptions, has not been great over the first two weeks. However, he gives the Raiders a chance to push the ball down the field, and he knows how Carroll wants to approach games—control the clock, play good defense and win the physical battle.

Now, Smith needs to make better decisions with the football, but he was done no favors by offensive coordinator Chip Kelly—who executed a very un-Carroll-like plan by having Smith throw it 43 times. He’s still a quarterback who can lead the Raiders to a lot of wins.

Most importantly, Smith was the best QB option Las Vegas was going to find in 2025. Las Vegas never had a shot at drafting Cam Ward and minority owner Tom Brady was against signing Darnold, according to The Athletic’s Michael Silver. And no, Daniel Jones probably wouldn’t be doing what he’s doing with the Raiders.