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Raiders Shock NFL: 2-0 Start Defies Expectations
21 Sep
Summary
- Raiders unexpectedly achieved a 2-0 record to start the season.
- Kirk Cousins leads the team with six touchdowns in two games.
- Rookie Fernando Mendoza is learning from the sidelines.
The Las Vegas Raiders have achieved an unexpected 2-0 start to the 2026 NFL season, defying preseason predictions. Kirk Cousins has been the catalyst, leading the offense with impressive performance and six touchdown passes through the first two games against the Dolphins and Chargers.
While many anticipated that the No. 1 pick, Fernando Mendoza, would eventually take over as the starting quarterback, Cousins' resurgence has altered that timeline. The veteran quarterback's ability to consistently deliver touchdowns, including three in each of his initial two outings, has made him a crucial part of the Raiders' early success.
Mendoza, possessing similar traits to Cousins but with more mobility, is currently learning the team's playbook from the sidelines. This development strategy allows him to adapt to the professional game without immediate pressure. However, a challenging upcoming schedule could potentially open the door for Mendoza if Cousins' performance were to falter.
