Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza throws pick-six in preseason loss to Texans

In his second NFL preseason game, Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza struggled against the Houston Texans, throwing an interception that Wade Woodaz returned 80 yards for a touchdown. Mendoza played the first half, completing 8 of 15 passes for 86 yards, and the Raiders trailed 20-3 at halftime. Despite the mistake, veteran Maxx Crosby encouraged him on the sideline. The Raiders later rallied with backup Aidan O'Connell to win 22-20. Mendoza acknowledged the learning experience, noting the need to adjust to the NFL's speed and tighter coverage.