Why Eagles are facing Kenny Pickett instead of Geno Smith in Week 15 vs. Raiders

Mike Moraitis

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Why Eagles are facing Kenny Pickett instead of Geno Smith in Week 15 vs. Raiders image

The Philadelphia Eagles will be taking on an old friend in Week 15 when they face the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday afternoon.

Starting at quarterback for the Raiders in the contest is Kenny Pickett, who is taking over for fellow signal-caller Geno Smith.

Of course, Pickett spent one season with the Philadelphia Eagles after he was traded by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Since then, Pickett has also spent a brief stint with the Cleveland Browns before again being traded to the Raiders.

Here's why Pickett is under center for the Raiders in Week 15.

Why Kenny Pickett is starting in Week 15

Pickett is starting for the Raiders because Smith is out due to an injury.

In Week 14, Smith suffered shoulder and back injuries that landed him on the injury report this week. Smith did not log a single practice over the course of the week and was ruled out on Friday.

Pickett has seen the field for three games this season, but he has yet to make a start and has only thrown 14 passes, completing 10 for 105 yards and one touchdown.

Raiders fans have been clamoring for Pickett to get an opportunity to start with Smith having a horrible season, but Las Vegas has remained steadfast in its support for Smith, or at least head coach Pete Carroll has.

Perhaps Pickett can do enough to make the Raiders change their mind, but that's not something we would bet on, as Carroll has been irrationally loyal to Smith.

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Contributing Writer