Las Vegas Review-Journal reporters and editors have offered their predictions for Sunday's matchup between the Raiders and the Seattle Seahawks at Allegiant Stadium. The game marks the first NFL start for rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who takes over after the team traded Kirk Cousins to the Minnesota Vikings on Tuesday.
Opinions among the staff are split. Some view the matchup as a potential trap game for Seattle, noting the Seahawks are starting an injured Drew Lock with Sam Darnold out and a bye week approaching. They argue Seattle lacks film on Mendoza's tendencies in the Raiders' system, giving Las Vegas an edge to return to .500. Others believe the Seattle defense is too formidable for a rookie making his debut, predicting better days ahead for Mendoza but a difficult introduction.
Raiders coach Klint Kubiak has expressed confidence in Mendoza and plans to utilize the full playbook. Defensive coordinator Rob Leonard and his unit are searching for solutions against a Seahawks offense that, while dealing with quarterback instability, is familiar with Kubiak's scheme from his previous role as offensive coordinator.
The quarterback transition dominated the week at the Raiders facility. Players lamented Cousins' departure while expressing excitement about the organization's future with Mendoza. The rookie took the reins at practice but acknowledged his mentor before doing so. Despite the trade, most power rankings published prior to the move did not show the Raiders sliding significantly.
Cousins has since rejoined the Vikings, citing familiarity with the organization, the Twin Cities area, and coach Kevin O'Connell's offense. Meanwhile, backup Aidan O'Connell moves up the depth chart as the Raiders prepare for Sunday's kickoff.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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