New head coach Mike LaFleur finally got his first NFL victory, slaying the Las Vegas Raiders 27-14 on the road. After a heartbreaker last week where they blew a late lead in the final seconds, this preseason W had to feel good for the Arizona Cardinals. It was hot in Nevada, even under a dome, but a good crowd of 61,683 showed up to see their new quarterback, first overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza. This is only preseason, remember, and it was against a Raiders squad that, like Arizona, finished 3-14-0 last year. Both teams are rocking new head coaches, so this was a battle of the fresh starts.
Brissett’s Masterclass: A Perfect Preseason Drive
The first string offense only played one series, but oh boy, did they make it count. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett looked like he’d been running LaFleur’s system for years, not months. He was in total command, leading that opening drive straight to seven points. Facing a third-and-11 early in the first quarter, Brissett found WR Michael Wilson for a huge 18-yard gain that put them just inside Raiders’ territory at the 28-yard line. Just a few plays later, he connected with WR Kendrick Bourne for 12 yards, moving them to the seven-yard line. The very next play? An absolutely amazing throw, a touchdown to WR Marv Harrison in the back right of the end zone. It almost looked like a Hail Mary, but it was on the money, with a step to spare in double coverage. Brissett finished his day a perfect 5-for-5 for 101 yards, one touchdown, zero picks, and wasn’t sacked once. His QB rating was a scorching 142.9. Talk about an efficient performance!
Minshew Steps Up, LaFleur’s Trait Shines
The quarterback room wasn’t done cooking, either. Gardner Minshew took over the second series like an old pro and continued the fireworks. At one point, he was a perfect 10-for-10 before finishing 14-for-16 for 102 yards with two touchdowns and, you guessed it, zero picks. His QB rating was a stellar 132.8. Minshew threw a “dime” that Jalen Brooks caught and celebrated, showing he’s ready to compete. If Brissett does get named the Week 1 starter, Minshew’s strong play in these live games is a fantastic sign for the offense’s depth. The Minshew versus Carson Beck debate might sizzle all year, but it’s clear that if something happens to Brissett, this offense won’t miss a beat. Two good, efficient performances from two different quarterbacks? That’s a definite LaFleur trait, and it bodes well for Arizona.
What a way to kick off the new era for Mike LaFleur! Getting that first victory, even if it’s preseason, is big. More importantly, seeing two quarterbacks play with such command and efficiency gives a real shot of confidence for what’s ahead. This team needs to keep building on this energy and clean play.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Revenge of the Birds.
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