The Raiders closed their preseason with a 20–10 loss to the Cardinals. Geno Smith threw a TD in his lone drive, while Clayton Tune led Arizona. Get the full recap, where to watch, game preview, and upcoming Raiders schedule.
Game Recap: Raiders vs Cardinals – Preseason Finale
The Las Vegas Raiders ended their preseason at 0-2-1, falling to the Arizona Cardinals 20–10 in Glendale. Raiders starter Geno Smith led the offense on his lone drive, connecting to Dont’e Thornton Jr. for a touchdown. Meanwhile, Cardinals QB Clayton Tune tossed a TD and ran for 47 yards. Most of Las Vegas’s starters played primarily in the first quarter; the bulk of the game featured depth-heavy lineups.
Scoring Summary:
- 1Q: Geno Smith find Thornton Jr. — Raiders lead 7–0
- 1Q: Clayton Tune responds with a TD — 7–7 tie
- 2Q: Daniel Carlson nails a 52-yard FG — Raiders 10–7
- 3Q: Bam Knight bursts for a 67-yard TD — Cardinals lead 17–10
- 4Q: Chad Ryland adds a 30-yard FG — Final 20–10 Cardinals
Raiders Key Takeaways
Preseason Wrap-Up & Roster Insights
- Finish: 0-2-1. Starters impressed early but faded as depth took over.
- Offensive highlight: Texas rookie Dont’e Thornton Jr. flashed with his back-shoulder TD.
- Running game: Zamir White led with 42 yards; Cody Lindenberg, Ashton Jeanty, and Greedy Vance showed promise in the ground and pass rush.
- Defensive standouts: Maxx Crosby, Jamal Adams, and Malcolm Koonce led early pressure, though run defense struggles allowed Bam Knight’s big play.
- Setback: QB Aidan O’Connell is out 6–8 weeks with a fractured wrist—expect the Raiders to explore veteran backup options.
How and Where to Watch Preseason
- Official Raiders Game Center offered live updates, scoring, box scores, and highlight links.
- Cardinals “How To Watch” guide listed broadcast and streaming details.
- In-market access via the Raiders App; nationally, games stream on NFL Network, with Saturday kickoff at 7 p.m. PT.
- Cord-cutters tips: Free livestreaming options available; NFL Network coverage included for preseason.
Team Background & Offseason Update
- Coaching Shakeup: Pete Carroll took over as head coach in January, with Chip Kelly joining as OC.
- Cardinals Outlook: Under Jonathan Gannon and GM Monti Ossenfort, Arizona is aiming to snap a three-year playoff drought.
Raiders’ hot start not enough to capture the win in preseason finale#LVvsAZ | #RaiderNationhttps://t.co/GgN6CaqoFu
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) August 24, 2025
What’s Next for the Raiders
- Preseason Record: 0-2-1 — a clear indicator that depth positioning remains in flux.
- Injury Watch: O’Connell sidelined—track veteran acquisition and QB depth decisions.
- Regular Season Preview: The improved defense and emerging playmakers offer optimism; still, consistency and health will define their start.
Stats & Standings Snapshot
- Game Stats: Raiders had more time of possession (~30:07), but turnovers and explosive plays favored the Cardinals.
- AFC West: Denver leads (3-0), LA (2-2), Raiders (0-2-1), KC (0-3).
- NFC West: LA Rams, SF, ARI all 2-1.
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