Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza struggles as Texans dominate first half
Top draft pick Fernando Mendoza was sacked, hit multiple times and threw an interception returned for a touchdown, leaving the Raiders trailing 20-3 at halftime.
The Las Vegas Raiders' first overall pick, quarterback Fernando Mendoza, endured a difficult debut against the Houston Texans, recording a sack, four additional hits and an interception that was returned 80 yards for a touchdown. Mendoza completed eight of 15 passes for 86 yards in the first half, including a 22-yard connection to Jalen Nailor, before the turnover.
Texans rookie linebacker Wade Woodaz intercepted Mendoza's pass and ran it back for a score, extending Houston's lead. Veteran edge rusher Maxx Crosby praised Mendoza's effort, saying, "He’s been great. You come in as a rookie, and you’ve got to start all the way back at the bottom. He’s had the right attitude. He’s working hard every single day encouraging teammates and just working. That's all you can ask for."
Matt Gay contributed the Raiders' only points before halftime with a 52-yard field goal, leaving the team down 20-3. Mendoza was replaced by Aidan O’Connell to start the second half. In his preseason debut the previous week, Mendoza completed ten of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals.