Competition isn’t new to Aidan O’Connell or Gardner Minshew II

In many regards, they’re pretty similar. This certainly isn’t either of their first rodeos when it comes to a quarterback competition, both climbing their way up the depth chart through their collegiate careers before becoming Day 3 draft picks. Both were also thrust in the limelight their rookie seasons: Minshew started 12 games for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2019 and O’Connell took over the starting role in Week 9 last season.

For the two Raiders quarterbacks, competition is honestly all they’ve ever known.

“That’s not unique to us,” O’Connell said of the QB battle. “That’s in any position really, especially in this sport. Only one quarterback can play. Our stories are kind of both underdog stories, having to work to get to the point where we’re at now.”

Quarterbacks coach Rich Scangarello also recognizes that “the style of play is probably a little different” with each of the two quarterbacks. Nevertheless, he’s been pleased with the competitiveness both have brought to the table and believes either would be a capable option as the ultimate starter.

“They’re both incredible, good personalities. They balance each other well,” Scangarello said last week. “They’re different how they approach it. They’re different how they play, but their mindsets are similar. They’re bringing out the best in each other. We’ve thrown a lot at them and they’ve handled it well. But I feel like we’ve got great opportunities for one of these guys to lead us to do some great things.”