In a dominant opening performance for the 2026 season, the Las Vegas Raiders topped the Miami Dolphins 38-21. With both teams eager to make a statement, the Raiders showcased their offensive prowess and established an early lead that the Dolphins struggled to overcome. Leading the charge for Las Vegas was quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who threw for 284 yards and four touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to find the end zone with precision. Mike Washington Jr. added a solid ground game with 84 rushing yards, while Dont'e Thornton Jr. proved to be a reliable target, racking up 93 receiving yards. This offensive trio was instrumental in keeping the Dolphins on their heels throughout the matchup. Defensively, the Raiders were relentless, highlighted by Jeremy Chinn's seven total tackles and Maxx Crosby's two sacks, which disrupted the Dolphins' rhythm. The turning point came midway through the second quarter when Mendoza connected with Thornton for a pivotal touchdown, extending the Raiders’ lead to a commanding 21-7. From that moment, the Dolphins struggled to regain control, allowing Las Vegas to secure a comfortable victory.