It’s Steelers vs. Raiders in Week 6, a game that feels like a must-win for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they look to improve to 4-2. Join us for live play-by-play updates, score tracking, and expert analysis right here on Steelers Talk.
The atmosphere is electric in Sin City as the Steelers and Raiders prepare for a crucial matchup. The Steelers are coming off two close losses and are determined to bounce back against a banged-up Raiders team.
Pregame Buzz and Super Chat Battle
Excitement is brewing among Steelers fans, and we’re thrilled to be joined by a passionate community here on Steelers Talk. We’ve got shoutouts to all the real ones who show up early for our live pregame coverage.
And things are heating up as we engage in a Super Chat battle with our friends (or shall we say, frenemies) at Raiders Report. Our community is stepping up to the challenge, and we’re determined to prove that Steelers Nation reigns supreme!
Steelers vs. Raiders: Key Storylines
Let’s dive into the top storylines for this week’s matchup:
- Can the Steelers Start Fast? They’ve struggled to score early in recent games, combining for just six first-half points over the past two weeks.
- Will Justin Fields Solidify His Starting QB Role? A strong performance against a weaker Raiders team could cement his position as QB1.
- Can the Steelers’ Run Game Get Going? The run game has been inefficient this season, but the return of Jaylen Warren from injury offers a boost.
- Roman Wilson’s Debut: The rookie receiver is finally getting a helmet, and Steelers fans are eager to see what he can bring to the offense.
- Will Devonte Adams Be Impressed? The Steelers are reportedly interested in trading for Adams, and a convincing win over his current team might pique his interest.
Roman Wilson in Steelers Uniform
Inactives and Injuries
Key inactives for the Steelers include KZ Herbig, Heith, Puit, and Pat Freiermuth. Max Sharping is also inactive. The Raiders are without some significant offensive weapons, as both Devonte Adams and Jakobi Meyers are out, along with running back Zamir White.
Steelers vs. Raiders: First Half Recap
First Quarter:
- The Steelers open the game with a promising drive, capped off by a 52-yard field goal from Chris Boswell. However, the Raiders respond with a methodical touchdown drive of their own, capitalizing on some missed tackles by the Steelers’ defense.
- Brodrick Jones has struggled early on, committing a costly holding penalty and failing to execute his blocking assignments.
Second Quarter:
- Penalties continue to plague the Steelers’ offense, with Brodrick Jones and Darnell Washington both drawing holding calls.
- Justin Fields shows flashes of brilliance, escaping pressure and connecting with Pat Freiermuth and Calvin Austin III for key first downs, but also throws a near interception that’s dropped.
- The Steelers manage to tie the game with a field goal just before halftime.
Halftime Analysis: Is It Russell Wilson Time?
Despite holding a tie at halftime, the Steelers’ offense hasn’t been convincing. Justin Fields has made some impressive plays with his legs, but his inaccuracy and decision-making have been a concern. The question looms: Should the Steelers consider bringing in Russell Wilson in the second half?
Steelers vs. Raiders: Second Half Recap
Third Quarter:
- The Steelers’ defense steps up in the third quarter, forcing a fumble from Raiders running back Dylan Parham, thanks to a strip sack by TJ Watt. However, the Steelers’ offense fails to capitalize, settling for another field goal.
- The Raiders continue to shoot themselves in the foot with penalties, including a costly illegal man downfield call that negates a touchdown.
- Minka Fitzpatrick briefly leaves the game with a shoulder injury but returns.
Fourth Quarter:
- The Steelers finally find the end zone early in the fourth quarter, as Najee Harris breaks free for a 22-yard touchdown run. They extend their lead to 22-7 with a successful two-point conversion.
- TJ Watt forces his second fumble of the game, this time on the goal line, preventing a potential Raiders touchdown.
- The Steelers’ offense continues to struggle to move the ball consistently, but they tack on another field goal to make it a 25-7 game.
- A blocked punt by Jeremiah Moon gives the Steelers excellent field position, and they capitalize with a touchdown run by Justin Fields.
- The Raiders manage to score a late touchdown, but the game is out of reach. The Steelers win 32-13.
Postgame Reaction: Steelers Secure a Win, But Questions Remain
The Steelers secure a much-needed win, but the offensive performance leaves much to be desired. Despite the final score, Justin Fields struggled with accuracy and decision-making. The debate surrounding the Steelers’ quarterback situation is sure to continue.
Game Balls and MVP
Game balls go to:
- Najee Harris: For a dominant rushing performance, showcasing his power, vision, and determination.
- TJ Watt: For two crucial forced fumbles that swung the momentum in the Steelers’ favor.
- Jeremiah Moon: For a blocked punt that led to a Steelers touchdown.
The MVP of the game: TJ Watt. His two forced fumbles were instrumental in the Steelers’ victory.
Looking Ahead: The QB Question and a Trade for Devonte Adams?
The Steelers head into a primetime matchup against the New York Jets with a 4-2 record. However, the quarterback question remains unresolved. Will Mike Tomlin stick with Justin Fields, or will he turn to a healthy Russell Wilson?
And will the Steelers make a move for Devonte Adams? After witnessing the Steelers’ performance firsthand, Adams might be even more intrigued by the possibility of joining the Black and Gold. The next few days could be interesting for the Steelers as they look to make a statement in the AFC.
