The first touchdown Fernando Mendoza scored in the NFL looked a lot like the defining moment from his college football career.
The Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback capped an 11-play drive, Mendoza’s first as the team’s starter, with a quarterback draw run play that went for a 10-yard touchdown to open the scoring Nov. 15 against the Seattle Seahawks.
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It was eerily reminiscent of his 12-yard touchdown 10 months earlier during the national championship game, a fourth-down scamper as he secured the 2025 national title for his Indiana Hoosiers against the Miami Hurricanes.
Mendoza’s “natty” run was certainly more physical – and didn’t require a dramatic leap at the goal line – but the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner demonstrated his athleticism and ability to make plays with his legs.
Throwing the ball, Mendoza was 3-for-3 for 20 yards. The Raiders started in excellent field position after the defense forced a fumble on Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock.
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Mendoza had spent the team’s first eight games as the backup behind Kirk Cousins, who was traded to the Minnesota Vikings on Nov. 10.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fernando Mendoza starts first NFL game with a bang, leads Raiders on opening TD drive
