Raiders rookie Mendoza struggles in preseason loss to 49ers

The Las Vegas Raiders concluded their preseason with an 18-12 loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday night, a game that solidified veteran Kirk Cousins as the starting quarterback and highlighted the ongoing development challenges for rookie first overall pick Fernando Mendoza. The defeat at Allegiant Stadium dropped the Raiders to a 1-2 preseason record. Cousins started the game and led two scoring drives, both resulting in field goals by Matt Gay. He completed 8 of 11 passes for 51 yards before giving way to Mendoza in the third quarter. Mendoza, the No. 1 selection in this year's draft, struggled against the 49ers' defense, finishing 7 of 14 for 57 yards with one interception and two sacks. His performance included a high pass that was intercepted by linebacker Tatum Bethune on his second attempt. The game was defined by field goals, with San Francisco's Eddy Pineiro converting all six of his attempts, including kicks of 59, 51, and 54 yards. Gay made 4 of 5 for Las Vegas, with a long of 53 yards. The Raiders' offense was limited, with running back Mike Washington Jr. leading the ground attack with 49 yards on eight carries.