The first and third overall picks in this year’s draft made their NFL preseason debuts on Thursday as Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza and Arizona Cardinals running back Jeremiyah Love stepped on the field.
The Cardinals emerged victorious, defeating the host Raiders 27-14. Here’s a look at some pertinent stats.
Both Mendoza and Love showcased their talents in this one.
Mendoza, who was the Raiders’ second quarterback on the evening after subbing in for starter Kirk Cousins, threw a six-yard touchdown pass to second-year wideout Jack Bech in the second quarter.
Fans were impressed with his efforts.
Love, meanwhile, had a nice day as well and showed some great moves.
This spin got the former Notre Dame star some extra yards after he got a first down on a 3rd-and-1 run.
Love also went airborne for an impressive hurdle to pick up a first down.
People liked what they saw from Love as well.
Aside from the rookies, Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. emerged as a player to watch.
Harrison, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, was once one of the most heralded wide receiver prospects in recent memory.
He showed promise in his rookie year with 62 catches for 885 yards and eight touchdowns, but Harrison endured a tough second season that included multiple health issues (concussion, appendicitis, heel and foot ailments). He finished with 41 catches for 608 yards and four scores in 12 games.
Harrison only had one target in this game, but he made it count, snagging a seven-yard Jacoby Brissett pass for a touchdown.
The Cardinals’ next preseason game will be Saturday, Aug. 22 at home versus the Dallas Cowboys. The Raiders will hit the road to play the Houston Texans on Thursday, Aug. 20 at 8 p.m. ET.
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