Pete Carroll has Geno Smith’s back. The new Raiders coach, 73, defended his quarterback Sunday when asked about Smith’s decision to flip off a Seahawks fan during Thursday’s preseason game, which served as the duo’s Seattle homecoming.

Pete Carroll revealed why Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith flipped off Seattle Seahawks before the preseason opener.

Pete Carroll has made it clear since his introductory news conference in January that he intends to win now, and he and the Raiders have taken steps to be more competitive, such as trading for veteran quarterback Geno Smith.