.jpg)
1 hour ago
3
Fernando Mendoza took the field for the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday in the team's preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals. Even though the Raiders lost with a 27-14 final tally, Mendoza came out a winner.
Mendoza completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and one touchdown during four drives in the team's game. His preseason debut was a definite success, not just because of those numbers but because he was poised and in command of the offense the entire time. So, Mendoza's road from college football to the pros may not take as long as first expected.
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza discusses his first time on the field in the NFL
After the game, Mendoza was quick to send out a heartfelt and touching "thank you." It was to not only his teammates but also to God.
"First, I want to thank God and my teammates and coaches for allowing me the opportunity," Mendoza told reporters after the game. "Today was an invigorating experience where there's not many moments where you feel fully alive, and on the field is when you feel fully alive, especially in the NFL atmosphere."
He added, "So, I want to give thanks for that. It was great to get out there, get my feet wet... I think it was a good experience."
Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak was also impressed. But, he wasn't surprised.
"As far as getting in and out of the huddle and commanding the group and getting the play-calls down, I saw the same guy we've seen in practice," Kubiak said. "I saw an ascending player."
English (US)