Derek Carr shines Oakland Raiders preseason finale, makes case for starting job
By Chase Ruttig
Aug 28, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) throws a pass against the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports
It was planned that rookie quarterback Derek Carr would get plenty of playing time to “audition” for the role of Oakland Raiders starting quarterback despite rumors that the team would start veteran Matt Schaub regardless come Week One against the New York Jets. However what was not planned was Derek Carr leading the Oakland Raiders to four touchdown drives in the early stages of the first half against the Seattle Seahawks, including touchdown drives on the Seahawks Super Bowl winning first team defense.
Carr played the better part of the first half before showing enough that head coach Dennis Allen pulled the former Fresno State star for Matt McGloin earlier than planned with the second rounder drawing rave reviews from fans as well as media members around the league witnessing a potential job stealing performance.
Derek Carr final numbers 11-13 143 yards 3td’s
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) August 29, 2014
My oldest brother, the Raiders fan, is texting me all kinds of excited about Derek Carr.
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) August 29, 2014
Not starting Derek Carr Week 1 will get Dennis Allen fired. Starting hum us his best chance to win and save his job.
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) August 29, 2014
Derek Carr and Denarius Moore picking on Richard Sherman?
— Raiders Beat (@RaidersBeat) August 29, 2014
Schaubs done #itsawrap
— John Middlekauff (@JohnMiddlekauff) August 29, 2014
It is unknown whether or not head coach Dennis Allen and general manager Reggie McKenzie will change their minds on going with their rookie from Week One, but showing flashes of promise all August and truly outperforming Schaub throughout the preseason there is a serious case for Derek Carr. With Raiders fans along with the media making their choice already, the pressure is on the Raiders staff to take the leap of faith and go with their expected future of the franchise right away.