What grade did Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza deserve for his play in the team’s 18-12 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 3 of the preseason? Mendoza’s play was his most underwhelming of the preseason slate, and contributed toward him not earning the starting QB role in Las Vegas, despite still having a fighting chance against Kirk Cousins, who shined all throughout.
CBS Sports’ Tyler Sullivan gave Mendoza a “D” for his performance against the 49ers in his preseason Week 3 rookie QB report card.
“In the preseason finale against San Francisco, Mendoza completed 7-of-14 for 57 yards and an interception… Similar to his pick-six against Houston, Mendoza's interception came on a play-action play where he was under center…
Given that Mendoza had little experience working under center in college, it's not surprising to see those growing pains.“
Mendoza showed that he has room to grow and be sharper when executing under center, as well as when dropping back, as has been the case on other occasions in the preseason, though sparingly. The Raiders’ star rookie QB had a rather forgettable performance, but still gives the team confidence that he’ll be able to step in and produce upon his number being called next season.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Fernando Mendoza earns ‘D’ from CBS Sports for play vs. 49ers
