HENDERSON, Nev. - The Las Vegas Raiders are in the midst of a heated quarterback competition between Aidan O'Connell and Gardner Minshew. Coach Antonio Pierce has stated that the team intends to name a starting quarterback following their next exhibition game against the Dallas Cowboys, which will be played at home on Saturday.

Pierce expressed confidence in having enough film to evaluate both O'Connell and Minshew, mentioning that the team will have two games to assess their performance. In the Raiders' recent preseason opener against the Minnesota Vikings, O'Connell started and played one quarter, completing 7 of 9 passes for 76 yards. He led the team on an impressive 83-yard, 15-play drive that resulted in a field goal.

O'Connell had brought the Raiders within striking distance of a touchdown before taking a sack on third-and-goal. Despite that setback, O'Connell saw the game as valuable experience, particularly due to the challenging game environment with a loud crowd, which required him to use silent cadence.

Minshew, on the other hand, played four series in the second quarter and showcased his skills by throwing for 117 yards and completing 6 of 12 attempts. He also connected with DJ Turner for a 20-yard touchdown pass and had a 7-yard run for a first down.

Both quarterbacks demonstrated efficiency during their time on the field, according to Pierce. He highlighted Minshew's ability to make plays down the field and praised O'Connell for his excellent performance in the red zone. The Raiders' coach noted that the team achieved their objectives for the preseason opener, including solid offensive operations.

Looking ahead, the Raiders are set to face the Cowboys in their upcoming exhibition game, during which O'Connell and Minshew are expected to each play one quarter. The decision on the starting quarterback will be announced after this game.

In other news, the Raiders will be welcoming back receiver Davante Adams, who had briefly left the team during training camp to attend the birth of his son. Adams, a three-time first-team All-Pro, is expected to rejoin his teammates this week after missing the last five practices and the game against the Vikings.

Additionally, there is hope that left tackle Kolton Miller and rookie left guard Jackson Powers-Johnson will be taken off the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list following the game against the Cowboys, according to Pierce.

The competition between O'Connell and Minshew continues to heat up as the Raiders prepare to make a crucial decision on their starting quarterback. With the return of Adams and potential recuperation of key offensive players, the Raiders are eagerly awaiting the outcome of their exhibition game to determine the leader of their offensive unit.