Raiders-Seahawks predictions: Picking the winner as Fernando Mendoza starts

Predictions

Las Vegas Review-Journal reporters and editors make their picks for the Las Vegas Raiders game vs. the Seattle Seahawks at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday:

Adam Hill

Raiders beat writer/columnist (7-2)

This may not be the daunting task some of the national media is making it out to be for Fernando Mendoza. Even though the Seahawks have one of the top defenses in the league, they really don’t have much film on his tendencies in this system to study. Seattle is also starting an injured backup quarterback. The game should stay close.

Seahawks 21, Raiders 20

Sam Gordon

Raiders beat writer/columnist (5-4)

Fernando Mendoza has his moments. The Seahawks have more

Seahawks 27, Raiders 20

Ed Graney

Columnist (7-2)

Fernandomania officially arrives at Allegiant Stadium but woe is the rookie quarterback who gets his first start against this Seattle defense. There will be better days ahead for Fernando Mendoza.

Seahawks 24, Raiders 21

Bill Bradley

Sports Editor (5-4)

We’ll take this as the Seahawks’ trap game of the season. Sam Darnold is out and Drew Lock is ailing while a bye week looms. Meanwhile, there are all sorts of good feelings around Fernando Mendoza’s first NFL start. We’ll ride the wave of Fernandomania as the Raiders return to .500.

Raiders 27, Seahawks 24