Fernando Mendoza could have Raiders on the verge of something big

Another day, and another discussion about the Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback situation. The team has veteran Kirk Cousins making the start, but it's only a matter of time before rookie Fernando Mendoza gets his chance to play for the team and prove that he's their future.

Mendoza took a big step towards that goal during the Raiders' first preseason game on the schedule on Thursday against the Arizona Cardinals. Even though Arizona won that one, 27-14, Mendoza had a strong showing.

Now, one NFL analyst believes Mendoza could bring something that this franchise hasn't had in a long time: relevance.

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza could make the team relevant again

Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report has a feature out dubbing Mendoza a "winner" out of the early preseason games. This isn't a surprise at all. Mendoza has been getting a lot of praise for his preseason debut.

By the time the game was through, Mendoza had completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards. He also had an eye-popping throw to Jack Bech, a six-yard scoring strike, during the second quarter.

In the piece, Davenport also says that Mendoza is considered the guy who's "going to save the franchise" and "lead the Raiders from obscurity back into relevance."

"A few preseason drives don't make Mendoza a superstar," he adds. "But given all the hype surrounding him, Mendoza acquitted himself well."

So, one amazing play doesn't mean Mendoza suddenly gets to be the Raiders' quarterback for life. But, it's a step in the right direction.

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