Geno Smith Exits Raiders-Broncos Game with Injuries

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith exited Sunday's Week 14 matchup against the Denver Broncos with injuries to his right hand and shoulder, paving the way for backup Kenny Pickett to take over in the fourth quarter.

The game, played at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, saw Smith suffer the initial hand injury on a hit from Broncos defensive lineman Zach Allen during a pass attempt early in the third quarter. Despite the setback, Smith remained in the game and led the Raiders on a scoring drive that reached first-and-goal at the Denver 10-yard line. He completed 13 of 21 passes for 116 yards and one touchdown through three quarters, including a first-half score that tied the game at 7-7. However, as the fourth quarter began with the Raiders facing third-and-goal from the 7-yard line, Smith headed to the locker room for further evaluation. The team listed him as questionable to return.

Pickett, a 27-year-old former first-round pick acquired by the Raiders in a preseason trade for a fifth-round selection, entered for his most significant action of the season. On his first play, he connected with wide receiver Jack Bech for a 2-yard gain, but the drive stalled. On...