Connor Cook likely to be named starter for the Raiders’ playoff game
Former Michigan State football star Connor Cook is likely to be named the starter for the Raiders’ first playoff game against the Texans.
Every Michigan State fan, coach and fellow player who watched Connor Cook over his three-year starting career in East Lansing knows that he is a proven winner. Not only that, but he demands respect from opponents and can lead the offense — despite not being named a captain (beating a dead horse).
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Last week, Derek Carr went down with a broken leg and the Oakland Raiders’ fourth-round pick was forced to suit up for the first time all season in the finale. Matt McGloin got the start, but Cook was waiting just in case of another injury.
Lo and behold, McGloin went down with an arm/shoulder injury after getting drilled during a pass and the rookie gunslinger was forced into action. He played well enough to earn the trust of his coaching staff.
#Raiders are going forward with the expectation that QB Connor Cook starts vs. #Texans, sources say. Matt McGloin not believed to be ready.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 3, 2017
While Cook getting thrust into his first NFL start in a playoff game might seem like it’s only due to McGloin’s injury, it’s relatively clear that he’s the best option for the Raiders. When he came in, the offense began to move the ball down the field more effectively.
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Cook finished his first NFL action against one of the NFL’s top defenses with 150 yards, a touchdown and an interception on 14-of-21 completions. He’s now being rewarded with his first career start.