Fernando Mendoza made a memorable debut as the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders on Nov. 15.
The rookie signal-caller directed an 11-play drive that culminated in a 10-yard rushing touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks, as “noted by Yahoo Sports.”
This scoring play marked his first career touchdown in the NFL.
The drive began with favorable field position after the Raiders defense forced a fumble by Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock, according to “data from USA Today.”
Mendoza completed three of three pass attempts for 20 yards during the game.
The performance was described by observers as being eerily similar to his college career highlights.
Specifically, the touchdown run mirrored a 12-yard score he recorded 10 months earlier during the national championship game while playing for the Indiana Hoosiers, per “reporting from USA Today Sports.”
That previous effort secured the 2025 national title for his team against the Miami Hurricanes.
While the professional touchdown was more physical than his college score, it served as a demonstration of his athleticism.
Mendoza, who was named the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner, had spent the first eight games of the season serving as a backup.
He was elevated to the starting position following the departure of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Cousins was traded to the Minnesota Vikings on Nov. 10, as “reported by sports outlets.”
The Raiders offense relied on Mendoza’s ability to make plays with his legs throughout the opening series.
His transition to the starting role comes at a pivotal point in the season for Las Vegas.
The team continues to evaluate its roster following the departure of its former starter.
Mendoza remains the focus of the organization as they move forward with their new offensive leader.