The Las Vegas Raiders continue to keep fans guessing regarding their starting quarterback as the competition heats up between veteran Kirk Cousins and rookie first overall pick Fernando Mendoza. Head coach Klint Kubiak remains tight-lipped about his choice, despite strong indications that Cousins may be the frontrunner.

With just over two weeks until the season opener against the Miami Dolphins, Kubiak acknowledged that Mendoza could benefit from additional preseason experience. However, the NFL's limit of three preseason games means Mendoza has had limited opportunities to showcase his skills. Kubiak remarked,

"[Mendoza] needs another three preseason games, all those rookies do. Now that the season's starting the practice reps get smaller and that's just life."

In the Raiders' recent 18-12 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, both quarterbacks saw action, with Cousins completing 8 of 11 passes for 51 yards, while Mendoza went 7 of 14 for 57 yards, one interception, and two sacks—resulting in a low passer rating. This performance contrasted with Mendoza's stronger debut against the Arizona Cardinals, where he completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown.

Cousins began training camp as the presumed starter and has consistently led the first-team offense. Kubiak noted,

"Kirk's been getting the reps with the ones. I think he's had a solid training camp, and it's his job to lose."

Despite Mendoza's potential, he has not yet outperformed Cousins during critical moments, with Kubiak emphasizing the importance of competition among the quarterbacks. The ongoing evaluation leaves the Raiders' fanbase eagerly anticipating the final decision.

Preseason Performance Comparison:

• Game 1 vs. Cardinals

  • Cousins: 10/16, 97 yards, 1 TD
  • Mendoza: 5/6, 50 yards, 1 TD

• Game 2 vs. Texans

  • Cousins: Did not play
  • Mendoza: 8/15, 60 yards, 1 pick-six

• Game 3 vs. 49ers

  • Cousins: 8/11, 51 yards
  • Mendoza: 7/14, 57 yards, 1 INT

As the countdown to the season begins, all eyes remain on Kubiak's decision regarding the starting quarterback.