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Game Recap: Raiders offense starts strong and rookies shine against Arizona Cardinals
Raiders.com • • general
Key Points:
- Rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza showed a mixed performance in his preseason debut, starting with a shaky first drive but finishing strong with accurate throws, completing 10-of-16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown.
- Despite Mendoza's efforts, the Raiders lost the game and acknowledged the need for growth, with Mendoza himself admitting he let his teammates down but viewed the experience as a learning opportunity.
- The Raiders' defense struggled, allowing Cardinals' quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew to convert multiple third downs and score touchdowns, highlighting ongoing defensive issues.
- Standouts on defense included edge rusher Patrick Johnson and rookie Cian Slone, who combined for multiple tackles, quarterback hits, and sacks, showing promise amid the defensive woes.
- Rookie Mike Washington Jr. made a significant impact with a 53-yard run, the longest preseason gain by a Raiders player since 2017, setting up Mendoza's touchdown and demonstrating potential for the team's offense moving forward.
