The rookie quarterback of Las Vegas RaidersAidan O’Connell passed for 141 yards and a touchdown in a very efficient performance as Las Vegas beat the San Francisco 49ers 34-7 on Sunday in the opening game of the preseason for both teams.
O’Connell, third on the depth chart behind starter Jimmy Garoppolo and veteran Brian Hoyerplayed the first three quarters.
The Raiders drafted O’Connell in the fourth round this year out of Purdue. He was known for his precision with the Boilermakers, setting a school record with a career completion percentage of 66.7. That ability was on full display in this game, as O’Connell completed 15 of 18 passes.
He edged out his 49ers counterparts Trey Lance and Sam Darnold, who are vying to endorse the starter. Brock Purdy.
Lance faced a strong flurry of passes from the Raiders, and in his first three series he was unable to complete any passes. Lance played the first half and completed 10 of 15 passes for 112 yards, but suffered four sacks and two possible interceptions. One of them came in the end zone and San Francisco tight end Ross Dwelley dove to catch Lance’s lone touchdown throw.
Darnold he played most of the second half for the Niners, going 5-of-8 for 84 yards. His receivers did him few favors, however, a fumble after a sack and a drop on another pass that turned into an interception. Both plays led to Las Vegas touchdowns.
Los Raiders they were much more effective, setting the tone early on with a 10-play, 68-yard drive on their first drive. Zamir White, who has been receiving first team practice with Josh Jacobs out due to a contract dispute, rushed six times for 21 yards and the touchdown.
White played into the second quarter, finishing with 43 yards on 13 rushes.
2023-08-14 00:14:00
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