Fernando Mendoza Throws TD in 27-14 Raiders Loss to Cardinals

Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown during his preseason debut against Arizona.

The Las Vegas Raiders fell 27-14 to the Arizona Cardinals as rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza made his professional debut. Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick and Heisman Trophy winner, finished the evening completing 10 of 16 pass attempts for 97 yards and one touchdown across four offensive drives. This performance made him the first top overall selection to record a passing touchdown in a preseason opener since Baker Mayfield achieved the feat in 2018.

Las Vegas head coach Klint Kubiak described Mendoza as an "ascending player" following the contest on Thursday night. Despite the rookie's production, veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins started the game and led a near-flawless opening drive. Cousins completed 5 of 6 passes for 50 yards, punctuating the possession with a 13-yard touchdown strike to tight end Michael Mayer. Kubiak confirmed after the game that the starting role remains Cousins' job to lose heading into Week 1 of the regular season.

Mendoza’s Scoring Drive and Key Plays

Mendoza entered the game with 3:39 remaining in the first quarter. His initial drive resulted in a punt following two incomplete passes, a sequence the quarterback attributed to pocket anxiety and excessive excitement. However, he found rhythm during his second possession, connecting with rookie wide receiver Malik Benson on a 19-yard pass that split the Arizona safeties and linebackers.

The Raiders tied the game at 14-14 with 3:16 left in the second quarter. The scoring sequence was highlighted by rookie running back Mike Washington Jr., who broke free for a 53-yard carry. Mendoza capped the drive by throwing a 6-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Jack Bech. While his third drive ended in a three-and-out, Mendoza’s fourth appearance saw him complete four passes for 44 yards to move the offense into scoring range. The drive stalled when kicker Kansei Matsuzawa missed a 38-yard field goal attempt at the start of the fourth quarter.

Adjusting to NFL Speed and Autonomy

Reflecting on his performance, Mendoza noted that the speed of NFL defenders was significantly higher than what he experienced in the collegiate ranks. He expressed a desire to improve his timing and anticipation, stating he intended to review game film immediately to address misreads and misthrows. Malik Benson praised the rookie’s huddle presence, citing clear communication and confidence in his operation of the offense.

Beyond the tactical elements of the game, Mendoza remarked on the transition to professional life, noting the increased autonomy of the NFL. He pointed out the novelty of having to drive himself to the stadium rather than taking a team bus, a departure from the highly regimented schedules of college football.

Statistical Breakdown and Quarterback Competition

Mendoza’s final stat line of 97 yards and a 62.5% completion rate came during a game where the Raiders struggled to maintain pace with Arizona’s 27-point output. While Mendoza focused on his growth, Kubiak emphasized the need for continued development across the roster. The Raiders' offense utilized both the veteran experience of Cousins and the mobility of Mendoza, yet the coaching staff remains committed to the established hierarchy for the upcoming season opener. Mendoza viewed the adversity of his early incompletions as a necessary step in his development, emphasizing that each snap represents a new opportunity to move the franchise forward.