Early Exchange Sets the Tone
The Arizona Cardinals and Las Vegas Raiders traded early blows at Allegiant Stadium on Friday, August 14, 2026, resulting in a tightly contested first half that ultimately favored the visitors. The game began with the Raiders taking an early 7-0 lead when Kirk Cousins connected with Michael Mayer on a 13-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful kick from Matt Gay.
Arizona responded quickly, with Jacoby Brissett finding Marvin Harrison Jr. on a 7-yard strike to tie the game at 7-7.
The second quarter saw both offenses find their rhythm. Gardner Minshew II led the Cardinals to a go-ahead score, threading a 10-yard pass to Simi Fehoko. However, the Raiders answered again as rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, making his preseason debut, directed a scoring drive that ended with Jack Bech catching a 6-yard touchdown pass.
The momentum shifted back to Arizona just before halftime, as Minshew II connected with Jalen Brooks on a 6-yard touchdown pass, giving the Cardinals a 21-14 advantage heading into the locker room.
Defense and Special Teams Seal the Win
The second half was defined by defensive stands and special teams efficiency. The Cardinals' defense held the Raiders scoreless in the third and fourth quarters, limiting their offensive output. Arizona added to their lead through the kicking game, with Chad Ryland booting two field goals in the third period: a 56-yarder and a 40-yarder.
These three-point plays extended the Cardinals' lead to 24-14 and finally 27-14, effectively putting the game out of reach.
