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Raiders fans earn right to hope for brighter days ahead as Mendoza era begins
The Raiders are beginning a new chapter as first overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza makes his first NFL start against Seattle. At 4-5, Las Vegas has little margin for error, but the change at quarterback has given fans reason to imagine a late push towards the play-offs and renewed optimism.
That hope needs to be balanced against the team’s weaknesses: the Raiders struggle to run the ball and to stop opponents doing so, and Seattle are the defending Super Bowl champions. Mendoza may make mistakes as he adjusts, as many highly drafted quarterbacks have; his response to setbacks and ability to keep drives going could be more telling than the result of any one game. The article points to Jim Plunkett’s unlikely rise from former first pick to Super Bowl MVP as a reminder that early expectations do not determine a career.
In short
- Fernando Mendoza makes his first NFL start for Las Vegas.
- The 4-5 Raiders face defending champions Seattle.
- His progress may matter more than the immediate win-loss record.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Mendoza’s first start gives the Raiders a chance to find a spark at quarterback, and a late play-off push remains possible if he adapts quickly and the team builds on his strengths. His arrival also offers fans a credible reason for optimism about the longer-term future, whatever happens in one game.
The case against
The Raiders’ broader weaknesses, particularly their running game and run defence, make a quick turnaround difficult, while Seattle’s status as defending champions presents a formidable test. Mendoza is still adjusting to the NFL, so mistakes and stalled drives are plausible; fans may be better served by judging his development over time than expecting immediate results.