The Raiders' QBs Aidan O'Connell and Gardner Minshew will each play "a legit quarter" in the preseason opener, according to Antonio Pierce

The quarterback competition for the Las Vegas Raiders is entering a crucial phase as the preseason begins, with Gardner Minshew and Aidan O'Connell vying for the starting position.

Head coach Antonio Pierce has not yet named a starter for Saturday’s preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings but emphasized that both quarterbacks will have an equal chance to distinguish themselves.

“We’ve got two more full training camp practices, then we’ll focus on Wednesday and Thursday before deciding our game plan,” Pierce said on Monday. “As I’ve mentioned, both quarterbacks will play a full quarter each. It doesn’t really matter who starts first or second; what’s important is that they get roughly the same number of snaps and opportunities to showcase their abilities.”

Throughout the offseason, Pierce has balanced the reps between O’Connell, who usually goes first, and Minshew. So far, neither quarterback has clearly pulled ahead in the competition.

“I don’t think we can say anyone has won the job yet,” Pierce said. “Both have had their good moments. Gardner has made some plays over the past few days, but there have also been turnovers we need to eliminate. On the other hand, Aidan has been accurate, though our wide receivers have had some drops. It’s not just about the quarterbacks; the entire offense needs to improve—whether it’s the wide receivers, offensive line, or overall sense of urgency.”

The Raiders' offense has struggled during camp, regardless of who is playing quarterback.

“They’re facing a strong defense,” Pierce added. “That’s good for the competition, but at some point, someone needs to step up.”

Minshew and O’Connell will both have an equal opportunity to take the lead in the competition on Saturday when they face a new challenge in the form of a Brian Flores-coached Vikings defense.