Viewers Couldn’t Believe What Fernando Mendoza Was Calling Joe Buck On Live TV [VIDEO]
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
Las Vegas Raiders young star Fernando Mendoza keeps winning off the field. The rookie quarterback delivered another memorable moment Thursday night. He finished a sideline interview with a formal greeting for Joe Buck.
Mendoza played the first half against the Houston Texans. He completed 8 of 15 passes for 86 yards. He also threw a pick-six that was returned for a touchdown. The Raiders still rallied for a 22-20 win. After the rough outing, his personality once again stole the show.
Fernando Mendoza Shows Classic Respect on Live Broadcast
ESPN reporter Laura Rutledge interviewed the No. 1 overall pick during the fourth quarter. Joe Buck and Troy Aikman called the game from the booth. As the interview wrapped up, Mendoza smiled and made a simple request.
“Please tell Mr. Buck I say hello,” he said while laughing.
Rutledge immediately followed up about Aikman. Mendoza answered without hesitation.
“Oh, of course. He’s a legend. I think Mr. Buck needs some love.”
The booth broke up laughing. Buck responded right away from the commentary position.
“You see, there it is. Back to Mr. Buck. That’s the stuff. He is unique.”
The most Fernando Mendoza sequence ever:
“Please tell Mr. Buck I say hello” 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/AzWldt8Q6r
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) August 21, 2026
The clip spread instantly across social media. The former Indiana star has built a reputation for this polite and genuine style. Buck supported him heavily during last season’s Heisman run and national championship.
Fernando Mendoza Faces Accusations of Sounding Scripted
Not every fan embraces the polished approach. Some NFL observers have hit Fernando Mendoza with wild allegations that his media presence feels fake. They claim the precise language and process-focused answers sound more like a corporate presentation than a typical athlete interview.
He drew mixed reactions. One fan said he comes off scripted even if he is genuinely down to earth. Another noted the heavy use of corporate terms. Critics compare the style to over-rehearsed public speaking. Mendoza has taken public speaking classes and maintains a detailed LinkedIn profile. His brother has defended him as completely authentic.
The debate continues even as the positive moments pile up. Mendoza remains locked in a quarterback competition with Kirk Cousins. Coach Klint Kubiak has not named a starter for the regular season. The rookie keeps impressing with his attitude despite imperfect stats.
Mendoza gets another chance next week at Allegiant Stadium against the 49ers. Fans already expect more memorable soundbites alongside the on-field results.
