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Fernando Mendoza faces tall task in first NFL start, and that’s OK
Fernando Mendoza will make his first NFL start for the Raiders against Seattle, whose defence allows a league-low 244.2 yards per game. The article argues that facing a formidable opponent could accelerate the rookie quarterback’s development by forcing him to read defensive looks and make decisions under pressure.
Mendoza had spent nine games watching Kirk Cousins and working with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, but the Raiders chose to start him while still 4-5 and in reach of a play-off place. Kubiak will need to give him room to act on what he sees, including finding tight end Brock Bowers or taking a deeper option when defenders close in. The article highlights how the Raiders might use motion and familiar formations to create openings, and predicts a 28-24 win for Las Vegas.
In short
- Mendoza makes his first NFL start against Seattle’s top-ranked defence.
- The challenge could sharpen his decisions under pressure.
- Las Vegas is tipped to win 28-24.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Starting Mendoza against an elite defence could speed his development by exposing him to demanding reads and pressure that practice cannot fully reproduce. With nine games of preparation and Kubiak’s guidance, the Raiders may reasonably judge that meaningful experience now is worth more than waiting for a gentler debut, especially while a play-off place remains within reach.
The case against
A difficult first opponent could make it harder to distinguish Mendoza’s own readiness from the challenge posed by Seattle’s defence, and an unsettled debut may dent confidence or invite avoidable mistakes. With the Raiders still in contention, continuing to learn behind Cousins could be the more prudent choice until Mendoza has had more time to prepare for the responsibilities of starting.