Steelers vs. Raiders: Top 5 bold predictions for Week 2

Steelers’ James Pierre gets his first interception

While he played far less than expected in Week 1, James Pierre still looked good all things considered.

The second-year player was a camp darling, living up to the hype that was associated with him before camp opened, and he held his own against Buffalo. With a week of defensive play under his belt, I expect him to be a bit more aggressive and see the field more in this upcoming week.

Add in the potent Steelers pass rush, and Pierre is in a good position to succeed (as is any member of the secondary, to be honest). With him likely more comfortable this week, he may start to show some of the ball-hawking traits that he has displayed in the last two camps.

That leads to more risk, naturally, but a key interception can be game-changing.

I believe Pierre both plays more this week and makes the most of the opportunity with a key interception. While he still takes some lumps in coverage and allows an extra catch or two that he shouldn’t, Pierre grades out as one of the better corners in the game.

He firmly establishes himself as one of the league’s most intriguing players going forward after a solid performance in Week 2.