Klint Kubiak offers definitive answer on Fernando Mendoza/Kirk Cousins QB controversy

The Oakland Raiders faced a decision on Sunday when they benched starting quarterback Kirk Cousins in a 45-17 loss to the New England Patriots. The team introduced No. 1 overall pick and former Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, who performed well in garbage-time, completing six of eight passes for 48 yards. Following the game, coach Klint Kubiak addressed speculation about Mendoza potentially becoming the starter, stating that Cousins would continue to start for the team.

However, Kubiak also indicated that if Mendoza is called upon, he would be prepared to take over the starting role, much like he did in the loss to the Patriots. The Raiders began their season with a surprising 3-0 record after securing the first overall pick in the previous year, but they have now dropped two consecutive games after a three-point loss to the Kansas City Chiefs and a blowout defeat to the New England Patriots.

Cousins has been having his best start since the 2023 season with the Vikings, ranking in the top 10 in passing yards (1,269) and sharing second place in touchdown passes with 12. Mendoza's role as a rookie starter remains uncertain, with his debut suggesting that his wait to assume the position will continue.