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 Raiders' No. 1 draft pick, Fernando Mendoza, and the Cardinals' rookie right guard, Chase Bisontis.
Mendoza, a Heisman Trophy winner, made his preseason debut and threw a touchdown pass, becoming the first top overall draft selection to do so since 2018. However, he also acknowledged his mistakes, particularly in his self-evaluation, stating that he needed to grow a lot. His performance raises questions about his readiness for the regular season, especially given the absence of starting quarterback Kirk Cousins.
The Cardinals, on the other hand, had their own challenges. They decided not to play their starting quarterback, Carson Beck, due to a sore rib injury, which was a disappointment for fans and media alike. Despite this, the Cardinals' offense shone with Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew combining for 15 of 15 completions in the first half, building a 21-14 lead.
The game also featured the return of Jermod McCoy, who hadn't played in nearly two years due to a torn ACL. He played with the second-team defense at cornerback and was the primary defender on two Cardinals touchdowns. Additionally, rookie Jeremiyah Love made his preseason debut and rushed for 58 yards on 11 carries, showing promise for the Cardinals' future.
The Raiders' pass rusher, Maxx Crosby, did not play, which was expected after undergoing knee surgery in January. This game was a chance for the Raiders to assess their depth and potential starting lineup, with Cousins and Mendoza both playing one series each.
In conclusion, the game provided valuable insights into the teams' progress and areas for improvement. While the Cardinals emerged victorious, both teams had their moments of triumph and struggle, setting the stage for the upcoming regular season. The preseason games are crucial for teams to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses, and the Raiders and Cardinals will look to build on these performances as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
