Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Texans Face Raiders in Preseason Opener Thursday

8/21/2026

36 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Houston Texans will face the Las Vegas Raiders in a preseason game.
Texans offensive line ranks 27th while their defensive line ranks second according to PFF.
Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza will debut Thursday, completing 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown.
Detroit Lions overhauled their offensive line, moving Penei Sewell to left tackle and signing Blake Miller.

History

Historical Context

The AFL-NFL merger, announced June 8 1966 and completed for the 1970 season, created a single 26-team NFL that began inter-league preseason contests in 1967. That structure led to each franchise averaging eight exhibition games by 1975, a pattern still seen today as the Houston Texans face the Las Vegas Raiders in preseason.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Houston Texans will face the Las Vegas Raiders in a preseason game.
Texans offensive line ranks 27th while their defensive line ranks second according to PFF.
Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza will debut Thursday, completing 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown.
Detroit Lions overhauled their offensive line, moving Penei Sewell to left tackle and signing Blake Miller.

1 / 2