Quarterbacks Fernando Mendoza and Carson Beck are set to make their first NFL starts on the same day, Sunday, November 13, 2026.
The two signal-callers, who previously faced off in the NCAA championship game, will take the field for their respective teams at 15:05 Central Mexico time, according to Ilgiornaledellosport.
This rare simultaneous debut marks a significant milestone for the 2026 draft class. Mendoza, the number one overall pick, will lead the Raiders against the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. Meanwhile, Beck, selected 65th overall, will start for the Arizona Cardinals against the Los Angeles Rams.
Mendoza’s debut brings immediate historical weight. He is the first quarterback chosen with the top overall selection to make his starting debut against a reigning Super Bowl champion. He also faces a Seattle defense currently ranked as the league’s top unit, a challenge not seen for a debuting number one pick since Vinny Testaverde in 1987.
The Seahawks defense has been formidable this season, allowing the fewest total yards and maintaining the league’s top-ranked pass defense, which has surrendered only 139 first downs. Mendoza, who recorded 10 completions and a touchdown during an August 13 preseason matchup against Arizona, enters the game as the betting favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year with +300 odds.
Carson Beck enters the starting lineup following an injury to Gardner Minshew, who may be sidelined for the remainder of the season. Beck’s path to the NFL included a final collegiate year at Miami following an elbow injury during the Southeastern Conference championship, where he finished his college career with 11,725 passing yards and 88 touchdowns against 32 interceptions.
Beck demonstrated efficiency during the preseason, completing 15 of 19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown in the Hall of Fame Game. While he enters the starting role with +1800 odds for league honors, he faces the immediate task of stabilizing an Arizona offense currently enduring a difficult season.
Both quarterbacks are scheduled to lead their teams on the field this Sunday, November 13, 2026. The league has confirmed the kickoff for both matchups is set for 15:05 Central Mexico time.
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