Kirk Cousins will start the season opener for the Raiders as No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza begins his career on the bench. Both quarterbacks played Thursday in the team’s first preseason game.
Cousins started and played one series.
He was efficient and effective, completing 5 of 6 passes for 50 yards and a touchdown. He threw a 13-yard touchdown to tight end Michael Mayer to cap the 10-play, 68-yard drive.
Mendonza was on the field for the Raiders’ second series.
His first completion came on his second attempt, a 9-yard throw to Jack Bech on third-and-8. A holding penalty later stalled the drive, and the Raiders punted.
Cardinals starter Jacoby Brissett went 5-for-5 for 44 yards and a touchdown on his only possession. He threw a 7-yard touchdown pass to Marvin Harrison Jr.
