Recap - Cardinals Defeat Raiders 20-10

Key Takeaways, Standout Performances & Data Tables

Game Overview

The Arizona Cardinals wrapped up their preseason with a decisive 20-10 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ. Despite an early touchdown drive led by Geno Smith, the Raiders were shut out in the second half as the Cardinals' backups managed steady production on offense, while the defense limited the Raiders' opportunities.

Coach Pete Carroll expressed confidence in the Raiders' starters, stating, “They've done everything we could have asked. Really thrilled about what we've seen.” The game featured notable contributions and a few injury concerns that are worth spotlighting as both teams prepare for the regular season's start on September 7.

Section 1: Raiders Offense - Limited Opportunity, Bright Start

Geno Smith’s Efficient Drive

• Geno Smith started the game for the Raiders, directing a crisp nine-play, 60-yard drive finished with a 17-yard TD pass to rookie Dont'e Thornton Jr., giving Las Vegas a 7-0 lead. Smith played only one drive, completing 2 of 3 passes for 26 yards and the score.

• Backup Aidan O'Connell replaced Smith, going 3 of 4 for 36 yards before leaving with a fractured right wrist, an injury expected to sideline him for 6-8 weeks—a major blow for the Raiders QB situation.

• Third-string rookie Cam Miller saw extended action, finishing 12 of 24 for 102 yards.

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Top Raiders Offensive Stats

Player	Passing (Comp/Att)	Yards	TD	INT
Cam Miller	12/24	102	0	0
Aidan O'Connell	3/4	36	0	0
Geno Smith	2/3	26	1	0

Player	Rushing Attempts	Yards	TD	Long
Zamir White	9	42	0	9
Raheem Mostert	9	32	0	9
Sincere McCormick	4	10	0	8

Player	Targets	Receptions	Yards	TD	Long
Shedrick Jackson	2	1	29	0	29
Ian Thomas	2	2	27	0	18
Dont'e Thornton Jr.	3	2	26	1	17

Section 2: Cardinals – Steady Production & Defensive Prowess

Clayton Tune Impresses at QB

• Clayton Tune played the entire contest, finishing 12 of 20 for 83 yards and a passing touchdown. Tune also rushed for 47 yards on five carries.

• Rookie Jordan Burch (third-round pick) made a significant defensive impact, tallying a sack and a forced fumble, while Xavier Thomas contributed two sacks.

• Simi Fehoko, who is competing for a roster spot, made another strong impression with a 10-yard TD catch and consistent play through the preseason.

Cardinals Offensive Standouts

Player	Passing (Comp/Att)	Yards	TD	INT
Clayton Tune	12/20	83	1	0

Player	Rushing Attempts	Yards	TD	Long
Zonovan Knight	5	83	1	67
Clayton Tune	5	47	0	25
Michael Carter	5	47	0	38

Player	Targets	Receptions	Yards	TD	Long
Simi Fehoko	2	1	10	1	10
Josiah Deguara	1	1	26	0	26
Xavier Weaver	2	2	20	0	17

Section 3: Key Moments and Injuries

• While the Raiders started well, their momentum was checked after O'Connell's injury in the second quarter. His absence leaves the Raiders thin at QB ahead of the regular season.

• Cardinals cornerback Jaylon Jones was evaluated for a concussion, adding an injury concern for Arizona.

Section 4: Coaches’ Comments & Outlook

• Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon praised the team's effort: “Thought it was a much better performance. It was cool to see us learn from Week 2, make improvements, and do a little better”.

• Despite the loss, Raiders coach Pete Carroll voiced optimism, satisfied with what the starters (especially Smith and key defensive players) showed in their limited snaps.

Section 5: What’s Next?

Both teams now look ahead to Week 1 of the NFL regular season. The Cardinals travel to New Orleans, while the Raiders visit New England on Sunday, September 7.

Team Comparison Table

Team	Record	1st Q	2nd Q	3rd Q	4th Q	Final	Total Yards	Pass Yds	Rush Yds
Las Vegas Raiders	0-2-1	7	3	0	0	10	241	138	103
Arizona Cardinals	2-1	7	3	7	3	20	269	59	210

Final Thoughts

Arizona finished its preseason showing depth and progress among backups and rookie contributors, while Las Vegas can take some positives from the starters’ efficiency on their lone drive. The Raiders’ backup QB injury situation clouds their outlook, but both teams march forward with clear areas of strength and vulnerability as they head into the regular season.