The Raiders have had a rollercoaster of a season so far, with ups and downs in their performance. After a surprising win in Baltimore, they suffered a disappointing loss to Carolina, followed by a victory over Cleveland and another loss to the Broncos. Injuries to key players like Maxx Crosby and Christian Wilkins, along with the potential departure of Davante Adams, have added to the team’s challenges. Additionally, the Raiders are making a change at quarterback, with Aidan O’Connell taking over from Gardner Minshew.
This week, the Raiders are set to face the Steelers at Allegiant Stadium. The Steelers, with a record of 3-2, have a long-standing rivalry with the Raiders, with the Raiders holding a slight edge in their head-to-head matchups. The last meeting between the two teams ended in a 23-18 victory for the Steelers.
In terms of game predictions, there are expectations for the Raiders to break their kickoff return touchdown drought and for players like Maxx Crosby and T.J. Watt to shine on the field. Raiders wide receiver Tre Tucker is also anticipated to have a standout performance.
The storyline of the game revolves around the quarterback change for the Raiders, as Aidan O’Connell steps in to lead the team. Despite facing challenges with a predominantly pro-Steelers crowd at Allegiant Stadium, the Raiders have an opportunity to even their record with a win on Sunday.
When the Steelers have the ball, the Raiders will need to prepare for both quarterbacks, but are likely to see Justin Fields leading the offense. Fields poses a dual threat with his running and passing abilities, making him a player to watch out for. The Raiders will also need to focus on containing running back Najee Harris and improving their tackling to limit the Steelers’ offensive production.
On the offensive side, the Raiders will look to O’Connell to bring a different dynamic to the team’s playstyle. With Davante Adams sidelined due to injury, other pass catchers will need to step up, with rookie tight end Brock Bowers expected to play a key role in the passing game.
Both teams have players listed on the injury report, with notable absences and questionable players for both the Steelers and the Raiders. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the game is expected to be a competitive showdown between the two AFC teams.
In the end, the prediction leans towards a 20-13 victory for the Steelers, but as with any game, anything can happen on the field. The Raiders will need to bring their A-game to overcome the Steelers and secure a much-needed win in front of their home crowd.