Turnovers and defensive questions deepen Raiders’ 38-17 loss

On November 8, the Raiders fell to 4-5 after a 38-17 loss to San Francisco. They remain in the playoff race, but their performance raised questions about how much longer they should prioritize veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins over rookie Fernando Mendoza, whom they selected first overall. Starting Mendoza could give him valuable experience and help coach Klint Kubiak assess what the young quarterback needs, while continuing with Cousins would reflect the team’s remaining chance to win this season.

The Raiders gave the ball away five times, including three interceptions by Cousins. His first throw after halftime was returned 35 yards for a touchdown, putting San Francisco ahead 28-10. Later, with the Raiders trailing 28-17, tight end Michael Mayer fumbled at the 49ers’ goal line. San Francisco recovered, then scored a touchdown to turn a possible 28-24 game into a 35-17 lead.

Mayer later caught a touchdown pass that was erased by an offensive pass interference penalty. Cousins threw another interception three plays later, and the 49ers added a field goal. The Raiders’ defense had managed some stops, but San Francisco also scored on a play in which quarterback Brock Purdy found Christian McCaffrey uncovered for a 21-yard touchdown against a blitz.

That play added to scrutiny of Leonard, in his first season as defensive coordinator. The Raiders face the Seahawks and Broncos next. Their leadership will have to assess both the players and Leonard’s decisions as the season continues.