Fernando Mendoza is getting his chance. Last year's Heisman Trophy-winner from Indiana is set to become the Las Vegas Raiders' starting quarterback after Kirk Cousins gets traded to the Minnesota Vikings. The Raiders host the Seahawks on Sunday.

Cousins started the first nine games, passing for 2,340 yards on 64.1% accuracy with 20 touchdowns and 8 interceptions. Mendoza has appeared in one game, an Oct. 11 blowout loss to the New England Patriots, going 6-of-8 for 48 yards.

Mendoza had great praise for Cousins over the weekend after the Raiders lost 38-21 to the San Francisco 49ers.

"I love 'Star Wars,'" Mendoza told The Athletic. "I think it's like (Cousins is) Master Yoda out there, and I'm trying to get all the information from him. He's playing at an MVP-caliber level, and him being so receptive to me, and answering all my questions, and looking out for me is super special. He's stuck his neck out for me and really helped me along the way."

A frustrated Cousins acknowledged after a loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Oct. 25 that Mendoza's time may be coming soon.

"If I'm not the best option, then I don't want to be out there. I want our football team to have the best chance to win games," Cousins said.

"I feel that (Mendoza) has done a great job and has a great future ahead," Cousins said, adding that he hopes he has helped Mendoza develop.

Mendoza led IU to last season's national championship, and the Raiders made him the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.