Raiders' Klint Kubiak Fuels Speculation With Fernando Mendoza Response

The Las Vegas Raiders concluded their preseason schedule on Friday night, and head coach Klint Kubiak remained undecided about who would start as the team's quarterback for the regular season. The Raiders faced the San Francisco 49ers and lost 18-12. Rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza participated in his third preseason game and struggled, completing only 8 of his 11 passes for 51 yards and an interception, while also being sacked twice.

Kubiak acknowledged Mendoza needed more work to be prepared for the regular season, suggesting he required a minimum of three additional preseason games. Following the season, the practice opportunities for the rookies would decrease, Kubiak added. Kubiak agreed that Mendoza's performance could be considered a "blessing" for his learning process, as he learns from his own reps, veteran Kirk Cousins' reps, and backup Aiden O'Connell's reps.

The coach stated he would love to play Mendoza the entire game but also raised concerns about the potential for injury and other aspects to consider. Kubiak did not officially name a starter during the press conference, leaving the door open for speculation regarding Mendoza's starting role. Most analysts believe Kirk Cousins will be the starter when the team faces the Miami Dolphins in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins on September 13 at 1 p.m. ET.