Published • loading... • Updated
Former Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza Makes Raiders Debut
- On Thursday, Las Vegas Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza debuted against the Arizona Cardinals at Allegiant Stadium, throwing a 6-yard touchdown pass to Jack Bech during his second drive after starter Kirk Cousins led the opening score.
- The Raiders installed veteran Kirk Cousins as the starter for training camp, affirming a cautious development plan prioritizing fundamental growth over immediate starting duties for Mendoza, the organization's top draft pick.
- Completing 10-of-16 passes for 97 yards, the Indiana University rookie led a nine-play, 79-yard scoring drive and added a 7-yard run, showcasing resilience against the Cardinals defense in his first live action.
- First-Year coach Klint Kubiak confirmed Mendoza will see "plenty of reps," noting he "has the upper hand" on other young quarterbacks in preparation, though the rookie must master fundamentals before earning expanded opportunities.
- The Raiders continue evaluation on Thursday, August 20, when they travel to face the Houston Texans, with scrutiny focused on whether Mendoza has fine-tuned his internal clock to the rhythm of the pro game.
Insights by Ground AI
Podcasts & Opinions
27 Articles
27 Articles
Fernando Mendoza Called the Next “Tom Brady” After Debut
After making an amazing NFL preseason debut with the Las Vegas Raiders, Fernando Mendoza has been dubbed a “Tom Brady clone.” When the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner faced the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday nite, everyone’s attention were on him. Everyone in the NFL was eager to see how the Raiders’ first-overall draft selection would perform in front of an audience. Additionally, Mendoza scored his first touchdown as a Raider during his unofficial N…
Coverage Details
Total News Sources27
Leaning Left6Leaning Right3Center8Last UpdatedBias Distribution47% Center
Bias Distribution
- 47% of the sources are Center
47% Center
L 35%
C 47%
R 18%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
