Steelers vs. Raiders Fantasy outlook

At the midway point of the season the Steelers find themselves at 4-4. If they don’t make a push for a few wins they could finish the season at 8-8, which would be a disappointment to all considering the number of quality players and the expectations prior to the season start.

It was though they had a bevy of fantasy superstars with the Killer B’s, and B number four Martavis Bryant. However, the offense has been a bit of a let-down while the defense has been a rather pleasant surprise. Funny how you never know how things will work out.

The Steelers are in a must win with Oakland coming to town. Oakland has been playing well and second year starter Derek Carr has been opening eyes around the NFL with his play. Let’s look at the fantasy options for this matchup.

MUSTS: DeAngelo Williams, Martavis Bryant, Antonio Brown

Williams played very well in the absence of Bell during the first two games of the season and he is motivated to do so again. As the main running back in the Steelers offense I see him as easily gaining 15 fantasy points for any owner.

The Raiders defense has been good but I think the Steelers are hungry and will look to put up points at home one week after their tough loss. I see both receivers being a threat to the Oakland defense.

MIGHTS: Derek Carr, Heath Miller

In the last two weeks Carr has thrown for 7 touchdowns and most fantasy consultants are saying he is a must start. If your starter is on bye then yes he is a good play and you are happy to play him. I just think the Steelers defense really shut down Dalton for the most part last week and they have it in them to do it again.

On the other side Heath Miller had his best game this season with 105 yards on ten catches while being targeted 13 times. He is Ben’s security blanket and may get a lot of looks again.  

MISSES: Latavius Murray, Raiders DST

Between Jeremy Hill and Giovani Bernard the Steelers gave up 72 yards rushing last week and are eighth best in the league. I don’t see that changing and the Raiders will probably lean on their quarterback in lieu of his recent success.

Next: Steelers release Archer and sign Jacoby Jones

The game could be a shootout and if so probably neither defense is one you want to play, but if Pittsburgh has the edge then they may be viable while Oakland may not. This is a home team pick.