OAKLAND -- The Raiders' backup quarterback competition is heating up.

Jon Gruden has been equally complimentary of Mike Glennon and Nathan Peterman during training camp, and with starter Derek Carr in street clothes for Saturday night's preseason opener at the Coliseum, both QBs had a chance to show what they can do in the coach's system.

Glennon got the start against the Rams, and led the Raiders on a touchdown drive on their first possession, hitting J.J. Nelson for a big gain before DeAndre Washington plunged in from 7 yards out. The North Carolina State product went 17-for-25 passing for 200 yards, but he also threw two interceptions, including one in the end zone.

Then Peterman stole the show with his ... legs?

The oft-maligned quarterback broke off a 50-yard run on the first drive of the third quarter, and capped the drive with a 3-yard scoring strike to rookie (and Alameda native) Keelan Doss.

Peterman finished 9 of 12 for 66 yards and one touchdown, while also rushing three times for 56 yards. The Pittsburgh product, who became an NFL punching bag during his interception-filled time with the Bills, believes he's settling into the Raiders' system.

"It's good. I think I can always be taking more steps like I said, there are some things I missed -- run checks and things," Peterman said of his performance in the Raiders' 14-3 win. "So, I got to get better at that because I got to put us in the best position to have a good play."

His familiarity with the system and how Gruden operates has grown immensely over the offseason.

"I think reps and getting more chances with the offenses and just getting to know the offense more, being in Gruden's meetings more and talking about what he wants and certain things, it helps a lot," Peterman said.

Gruden, overall, appeared pleased with both of his backup QBs, although he lamented the two interceptions from Glennon. As for Peterman, it certainly sounds like Gruden is becoming a believer.

"Peterman showed his athleticism," Gruden said. "He can run. As he continues to gain command of the offense, he's going to be an interesting guy to watch."

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Peterman wasn't perfect Saturday, but he didn't turn the ball over, flashed his athleticism and clearly is gaining confidence in the system.

Turnovers are a non-starter for Gruden. If the competition was an even heat heading into the game, then it appears Peterman -- despite the 12 picks he threw in eight games over two seasons in Buffalo -- might have edged in front of Glennon for now.

The power of redemption is alive and well in Oakland.

Nathan Peterman edges ahead in Raiders' backup quarterback competition originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area