The Steelers got back on track with a big win against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Pittsburgh Steelers dominated in Week 6, securing a decisive 32-13 victory at Allegiant Stadium. The team got back on track and kept pace in the AFC North, after suffering back-to-back losses to the Colts and Cowboys.
After a dominant opening drive by the Raiders, the defense righted the ship and pummeled the Raiders up front. They shut down the Raiders offense and kept them in check all day, continuing to win the turnover battle. The defensive line generated a relentless pass rush, disrupting the Raiders’ quarterback Aidan O’Connell and creating opportunities for sacks and interceptions.
T.J. Watt had a dominant performance. He forced two fumbles including one on the goal line that all but eliminated a Raiders comeback. The stat sheet does not jump out at you, but he was a professional game wrecker. Cam Heyward recorded the only sack. He pushed the pile backwards all day and clogged the running lanes, contributing to the Steelers’ dominant defensive effort. Heyward helped limit the Raiders to just 57 yards on the ground. Patrick Queen led the team in tackles and was dominant in the middle.
Donte Jackson had his second red zone interception in two weeks. Aidan O’Connell finished with only 218 yards net. What was most impressive was the tackling though. The secondary had several solo tackles that slowed the Raiders screen game down.
After the Raiders opening drive, the Steelers controlled the tempo, establishing a powerful running game led by Najee Harris. Harris amassed 106 yards and a touchdown, consistently breaking tackles, and grinding down the Raiders. He had one run where he was hit by no less than NINE of the Raiders defenders. His 36-yard touchdown run in the third quarter was a highlight, showcasing his physicality and explosiveness.
Quarterback Justin Fields, continues to struggle with accuracy but he was a huge part of the Steelers’ offensive success, rushing for two touchdowns and efficiently managing the game. The stat sheet was far from impressive, he finished 14-24 for only 145 yards, but his ability to extend plays and make timely throws kept the Raiders defense off balance.
The receivers continue to be a work in progress. Enigmatic George Pickens led the team with three catches but had two crucial drops. Calvin Austin impresses when he gets the opportunity. The tight end group needs to get more involved. They combined for only four catches and 29 yards.
The Steelers’ special teams also played a key role in their victory. Chris Boswell continues to nail big field goals, hitting four on the day. Jeremiah Moon who is seeing significant action with the injuries to Herbig and Highsmith, made his biggest splash on special teams, blocking an A.J. Cole punt and setting the Steelers up for a Bos field goal. Corliss Waitman did a nice job and dropped two of his three punts inside the 20.
The officiating crew had a tough day again, including botching an end of quarter clock issue and being way to involved in the game. Both fan bases will be unhappy at the performance.
The coaching staff deserves a great deal of credit. They made several adjustments from last week and while it was still not a great start, it was a better start for the offense. They established the run early and wore the Raiders out up front. They made the necessary adjustments on defense, which set the offense up for success, scoring the most points of the season.
The Steelers’ victory was a solid performance that showcased their strengths on all sides of the ball. It also served as a confidence booster for a team that had faced adversity in recent weeks.
BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!
My “GAME BEER” goes to: Going with Najee Harris, I would say that was his best game as a Steelers RB. It might not be his best statistical game, but he absolutely set the tone and looked like the lynchpin of the offense. Also Considered: T.J. Watt with two forced fumbles, Donte Jackson with his second interception in two weeks. Cam Heyward with a monster sack. How about Little Bos?
Beer of the Game: Kicked it off with Sam Adams Octoberfest for my pregame then went back to Miller Lite Tall Boys for the actual game.
“Steel the Snacks”: So KGB went with the Asian Buffet theme that is so prevalent in Las Vegas. Dumplings and Cream Cheese Wontons were outstanding! We started the snacks early, because D-Man was home for the weekend and was starving.
My Stat of the week: Don’t want this to come across as negative, it is meant as a positive stat albeit a frustrating one. Chris Boswell with his big day has 50 points the rest of the Steelers Combined: 48. Najee Harris had his first rushing touchdown of the year…it is week 6! Cam Hewyard played in his 200th game as a Pittsburgh Steeler!
My Thoughts on next week: Steelers will face the first of the two New York teams, The Jets with their ridiculous coaching situation and with Super Bowl villain Aaron Rodgers at the helm.
Jersey of the Week: Heath Miller #83, Black Out Jersey. I absolutely love this jersey, it is one of my favorites!