{
  "id": 834665,
  "title": "No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza throws TD pass in preseason debut for Raiders in 27-14 loss to Cardinals",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/14/no-1-pick-fernando-mendoza-throws-td-pass-in-preseason-debut-for-834665",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-14T03:53:02.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Associated Press",
    "slug": "associated-press",
    "url": "https://apnews.com/article/cardinals-raiders-score-mendoza-cc745909f54ebd584c371182fc92dee9"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In a preseason NFL matchup between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Arizona Cardinals, No. 1 overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza made an immediate impact on the field. The Heisman Trophy winner threw a touchdown pass during his debut, contributing to the Raiders' 27-14 defeat. Mendoza appeared in four series, excluding a kneel-down in the first half, and finished the game 10 of 16 for 97 yards, including a crucial 6-yard touchdown pass to Jack Bech. This marked the first time since 2018 that a top overall draft selection had thrown a touchdown pass in their first preseason game. Mendoza narrowly missed a second touchdown pass in the fourth quarter, throwing over the reach of Deven Thompkins. Despite his performance, he also showcased his accuracy with a 19-yard pass in the second quarter, connecting with fellow rookie Malik Benson amid three defenders. The anticipated rematch of college football national championship quarterbacks did not take place, as the Cardinals opted to skip Carson Beck due to sore ribs. Mendoza's impressive college career includes leading Indiana to a 27-21 victory against Carson Beck and Miami in the January championship game. Notably, Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby, who underwent knee surgery in January, did not play, as his playing status remained undetermined. However, teammate Jermod McCoy, who had been sidelined for nearly two years due to a torn ACL, made a return to action as a cornerback, contributing significantly to both teams' defenses.",
  "summary": "LAS VEGAS (AP) — No. 1 draft pick Fernando Mendoza threw a touchdown pass in his preseason debut for the Las Vegas Raiders in a 27-14 loss to the Arizona…",
  "key_points": [
    "No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza scores first TD of his NFL career",
    "Raiders defeat Arizona Cardinals 27-14 in preseason matchup",
    "Mendoza completes 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards in debut"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Fernando Mendoza's strong preseason debut, including a touchdown pass, sets a promising tone for his NFL career and puts him on track to meet heightened expectations as the No. 1 overall draft pick.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}