In a thrilling showdown, the Las Vegas Raiders defeated the New York Jets with a final score of 38-29, solidifying their position in the playoff race during Week 8 of the 2026 season. This matchup was critical for both teams, as they sought to gain momentum heading into the latter half of the season. Leading the charge for the Raiders was quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who threw for 301 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing his elite skill set. Complementing his efforts, running back Mike Washington Jr. dominated on the ground with 131 rushing yards, while wide receiver Jeff Caldwell added 106 receiving yards, proving to be a reliable target throughout the game. Defensively, the Raiders were anchored by Jeremy Chinn, who not only led the team with five total tackles but also snagged an interception that proved pivotal in the game's outcome. The turning point came late in the fourth quarter when Mendoza connected with Caldwell for a touchdown, extending the lead and forcing the Jets to play catch-up. Despite a valiant effort from the Jets' defense, including a sack from Will McDonald IV, they couldn't contain the Raiders’ offensive onslaught.