Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Aidan O’Connell threw for 141 yards and a touchdown on 15-for-18 completions, a highly-efficient performance in a 34-7 preseason beatdown of the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday at Allegiant Stadium.
O’Connell, 24, is third on the depth chart behind starter Jimmy Garoppolo and veteran Brian Hoyer. He played in the first three quarters of the team’s first NFL preseason contest.
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Garoppolo, 31, was seen wearing a Raiders uniform in public for the first time ever, but did not play a single snap. O’Connell, however, still gave Jimmy G a run for his money.
The rookie QB also outplayed 49ers counterparts Trey Lance and Sam Darnold, who are competing for the backup spot behind starter Brock Purdy.
Lance, 23, faced a strong pass rush defense from the Raiders and was unable to complete any passes through his first three drives. He played the entire first half and finished with 112 passing yards and a TD on 10-for-15 completed passes.
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Niners tight end Ross Dwelley made an incredible diving catch to give Lance his only touchdown completion.
Darnold, 26, played most of the second half for San Francisco, throwing for 84 yards on just 5-for-8 completions.
Raiders were much more efficient, setting the tone early with a 10-play, 68-yard opening drive.
O’Connell was drafted by the Raiders in the fourth round this year out of Purdue. He is known for his accuracy, setting a school record 66.7 completion percentage for the Boilermakers.
