NFL just told the whole world exactly how they feel about the Raiders and Fernando Mendoza without saying a thing
The Las Vegas Raiders’ 2027 schedule has been released, and there are some positives and some negatives to discuss.
This year marks a pivotal shift. The Raiders must avoid a schedule that compounds challenges already expected from a rookie head coach and quarterback. On Thursday, the organization unveiled its schedule, along with the rest of the NFL.
It’s a tough schedule, to say the least. And it’s especially tough when you realize that they could be doing with a rookie head coach and a rookie quarterback. Regardless, this schedule is perfect for the Raiders and what they need in this first season together. Whether it’s the obstacle or the cure depends on perspective. The team will encounter moments of advantage and serious tests. But this could make them better.
One thing that may have nothing to do with making them better or worse on this schedule is the primetime games. They don’t have any on their schedule, for now. They could be dealt a primetime game in Week 18, or flex one later in the season, but that just doesn’t seem likely.
Not having any primetime games is good, in a way, because the Raiders just need to focus on winning, and none of that extra stuff that comes with the bright lights.
However, this does show how the NFL views the Raiders
In a way, this shows me that the NFL thinks Fernando Mendoza won’t start this year. The NFL is banking on the possibility that Kirk Cousins will be the starter for the entire season. Because, let’s face it, they don‘t deserve any primetime games, winning only three games last season.
However, the Raiders are not your average three-loss team. They have the No. 1 pick QB, who’s also a National Champion. If he were the sure starter, I’d guarantee they’d get one National TV game. Secondly, this team has a new rookie head coach who just won a Super Bowl. They have added a ton of pieces in free agency, and are essentially a completely different team.
Last season, the New York Giants had one primetime game, coming off a three-win season the year before. The Raiders are a much, much bigger brand, especially nationally.