Geno Smith Throws Two More Picks in Raiders’ 40-6 Rout by Colts, Reaching Nine INTs in Five Games
The Las Vegas Raiders’ nightmare continued on Sunday as they were completely outclassed by the Indianapolis Colts in a humiliating 40-6 loss at Lucas Oil Stadium. What was expected to be a chance for redemption turned into another long afternoon of mistakes, missed opportunities, and mounting frustrations—especially for quarterback Geno Smith, whose struggles have become impossible to ignore.
Smith, once hailed as a steady veteran presence capable of steering a young Raiders roster through a transition year, has found himself sinking deeper into a pit of inconsistency and turnovers. Against the Colts, the former Pro Bowler threw two more interceptions, bringing his total to nine picks in just five games this season. His latest outing only amplified the growing doubts about his ability to hold the starting job as the Raiders’ offense sputtered, producing just one field goal per half.
From the opening kickoff, it was clear the Colts came ready to dominate. Quarterback Anthony Richardson was sharp and efficient, slicing through the Raiders’ secondary with confidence while running back Jonathan Taylor bulldozed his way to over 100 total yards and two touchdowns. The Colts’ offensive line controlled the line of scrimmage, and their defense feasted on Smith’s miscues.
Smith’s first interception came early in the second quarter on a mistimed throw over the middle intended for Jakobi Meyers. Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin read the play perfectly, cutting off the route and setting up a short field that led to a touchdown just two plays later. The second pick, even more costly, came late in the third quarter when Smith’s deep pass to Davante Adams hung in the air too long, allowing cornerback Kenny Moore II to make an easy grab and return it inside the Raiders’ 20-yard line.
By then, the Colts had built a 27-3 lead, and the game was well out of reach. Smith finished the day completing 18 of 34 passes for just 165 yards, zero touchdowns, and two interceptions, earning boos from a traveling section of Raiders fans who had hoped for signs of life after last week’s loss.
Head coach Antonio Pierce faced the media postgame with visible frustration. “We’re not executing. It starts with protecting the football and staying disciplined,” Pierce said. “You can’t win in this league giving away possessions, especially on the road.”
While Pierce didn’t single out Smith by name, his tone suggested that quarterback play will be under review this week. Backup Aidan O’Connell has seen limited snaps this season but may soon find himself back in the conversation as Las Vegas searches for answers.
The Raiders’ offense has now gone three straight games without a passing touchdown, a troubling statistic for a team that boasts one of the league’s top receiving duos in Adams and Meyers. Meanwhile, the defense, which showed early-season promise, looked gassed by halftime, unable to contain Taylor’s relentless ground attack or Richardson’s improvisation.
For Smith, the numbers paint a grim picture: nine interceptions in five games compared to just three touchdown passes. His decision-making has regressed dramatically, and his pocket awareness—once considered a strength—has faltered under constant pressure.
Despite his accountability, patience is wearing thin among fans and analysts alike. With the Raiders now sitting at 1-4, their playoff hopes are fading quickly. The schedule doesn’t get any easier either, with upcoming matchups against the Chiefs and Chargers looming large.
For the Colts, Sunday’s blowout was a statement win that reaffirmed their rise as an AFC dark horse. Richardson’s poise and Taylor’s resurgence gave fans plenty to cheer about, while the defense continued its dominant run with five sacks and three takeaways.
As for the Raiders, the focus turns inward. Geno Smith’s nine-interception nightmare has cast a long shadow over a team still trying to find its identity. If things don’t turn around soon, the next interception might not just end another drive—it could end Smith’s tenure as the Raiders’ starting quarterback.
