The Las Vegas Raiders and Arizona Cardinals faced off in a preseason game on August 13, 2026, with the Cardinals emerging victorious, 27-14. The game showcased the talents of several key players, including the highly anticipated No. 1 draft pick, Fernando Mendoza, who made his preseason debut for the Raiders.
Mendoza, a Heisman Trophy winner, led one touchdown drive in four series, showcasing his leadership and command in the huddle. He finished with 10 of 16 completions for 97 yards and a 6-yard TD pass to Jack Bech. While Mendoza's performance was solid, he acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly in his timing and anticipation, drawing comparisons to the starter, Kirk Cousins.
The game also featured a notable absence: Carson Beck, the Cardinals' quarterback, who sat out due to a sore rib injury, preventing a potential rematch with Mendoza, who led Indiana to victory over Beck and Miami in the college football national championship.
Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby, who underwent knee surgery in January, also did not play, with his status being a determining factor in the lead-up to the game. The Raiders' starting quarterback, Cousins, completed 5 of 6 passes for 50 yards and a 13-yard touchdown pass to Michael Mayer, while the Cardinals' Jacoby Brissett had a similarly impressive performance, completing all five of his passes for 44 yards and a 7-yard TD to Marvin Harrison Jr.
The game also saw the debut of rookie Jeremiyah Love, who rushed for 58 yards on 11 carries for the Cardinals. However, there were concerns regarding injuries, as Cardinals rookie right guard Chase Bisontis injured his left knee, and the team's medical staff expressed caution about Love's ankle injury.
This preseason game provided an opportunity for teams to assess their depth and strategy, with both the Raiders and Cardinals looking to build momentum heading into the regular season. The outcome highlights the importance of player health and the strategic decisions made by coaching staff, setting the stage for an intriguing season ahead.
