Raiders rookie quarterback throws interception returned 80 yards for touchdown in NFL debut
In his first NFL start, Raiders first-round pick Fernando Mendoza threw an interception that Texans linebacker Wade Woodaz returned 80 yards for a touchdown.
Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza threw his first NFL interception on Thursday night, which Texans linebacker Wade Woodaz returned 80 yards for a touchdown during Mendoza's debut start. The play came after running back Mike Washington completed a 33-yard rush to the Texans' 24-yard line, prompting Mendoza to attempt a pass that was intercepted by Woodaz. The defender caught the ball and ran it back for the score, while Mendoza attempted to tackle him but was unable to prevent the touchdown.
The turnover marked a difficult moment for the first overall pick, who had largely avoided similar errors during training camp and the preseason.