Geno Smith Disappointed After Two Key Interceptions Lead to Losses: "Those Were Decisive Moments"
Quarterback Geno Smith is facing a challenging start to his first season with the Las Vegas Raiders. Despite a promising opening victory against the New England Patriots, Smith has struggled in the following games, particularly in key moments. In the last three games, he has thrown at least two interceptions in each contest, including a tough 6–40 loss to the Indianapolis Colts.
Smith expressed his frustration after the latest defeat, especially over the two critical interceptions that played a decisive role in the outcome of the game. "Those were moments that I could have controlled," Smith said. "I’m disappointed in myself because I know those turnovers cost us the game. We were in a position to make a comeback, but those mistakes took us out of it."
The interceptions, both coming at pivotal points in the game, resulted in lost opportunities for the Raiders to get back into the match. Smith’s inability to protect the ball has raised concerns, especially considering the impact of those turnovers on his team’s chances of securing wins.
"I have to be better in those situations," Smith continued. "Those are the moments that define games, and I let my team down. I know I’m capable of more, and I’m determined to fix it."
The Raiders will need Smith to bounce back quickly as they look to avoid further setbacks. His leadership will be crucial in turning around their season, and Smith is focused on making the necessary adjustments to ensure he doesn't repeat these costly mistakes.
Broncos activate Malcolm Roach, place Ben Powers on IR
Malcolm Roach returned to practice recently, a development suggesting he could be available to the Denver Broncos for Week 6. That will indeed be the case.
The veteran defensive tackle was activated from injured reserve on Saturday, per a team announcement. Given the timing of when Roach had his 21-day practice window opened, it was expected Denver would make this move. He is now in line to make his season debut during the Broncos’ matchup with the Jets in London.
Roach is one of several former Saints who reunited with Sean Payton upon arrival in Denver. The 27-year-old logged a full campaign last year, setting new career highs in tackles (43) and sacks (2.5) along the way. Roach also recorded a personal best in terms of usage rate with a 42% snap share. A similar workload could be in store upon his return.
The Broncos’ defensive line also includes Zach Allen, D.J. Jones and John Franklin-Myers, of course. That trio has remained healthy through the early stages of the 2025 campaign and as long as that continues, each of its members will handle a large workload. Even in that case, Roach will be counted on to fill in on a part-time basis moving forward. As a pending free agent, his performance upon returning to action will be key in determining his market value.
To make room on the roster, the Broncos moved starting left guard Ben Powers to injured reserve. The 2023 free agent signing suffered a biceps injury in Week 5, and shortly after that game it became clear an IR stint would be necessary. Powers has not missed a game to date in his Denver tenure, but that will now change. A return to action in December is the team’s target in his case.
With Powers sidelined for at least the next four games (but quite probably more), depth up front will be something to monitor. The Broncos have elevated Calvin Throckmorton from the practice squad for tomorrow’s game. The former UDFA played two games last season with Denver, and he is now in position to make his season debut on Sunday.
