Matt McGloin has had to leave a lot behind in order to make the trip across the country to the Oakland Raiders’ training camp. The Scranton native clearly didn’t leave behind his swagger and moxie though, passing for 78-yards and a touchdown in 15 minutes of preseason action against the Dallas Cowboys, Friday night.
Taking over the quarterbacking duties at the start of the third quarter, McGloin went 1-for-2 on his first series of NFL play before the Raiders punted. His second chance under center was much more impressive though as the former Nittany Lion threw a quick strike that went for 40-yards and a long 30-yard bomb down the field only a few plays later for a touchdown.
While preseason football may hold only so much purpose for established starters, for players like McGloin it is a chance to prove their worth to a team that will eventually cut down on its active roster. For McGloin, his training camp has gone about as well as it could, jumping over Raiders’ fourth round draft choice Tyler Wilson in the current rotation. Matt Flynn is expected to hold down the Raiders’ starting job but McGloin is currently in a tough battle with Wilson and former Ohio State Buckeye Terrelle Pryor for the backup role.
The Raiders reportedly are planning on placing three quarterbacks on the active roster which makes McGloin’s strong first showing all that more important for his immediate future.
Overall McGloin looked poised and confident in the pocket. How the remainder of preseason goes will determine McGloin’s home this year, but it’s hard to imagine Raiders and Nittany Lions fans being disappointed with McGloin’s opening act.
