5 Steelers who need to thrive in Week 6 vs. Raiders
Another tough blow was dealt to Pittsburgh's early season record after falling to the Cowboys. They will need to find different ways to turn things around in their Week 6 matchup against the Raiders. They have struggled against the silver and black in recent years, but they were able to secure a win during their last visit to Las Vegas. There are a lot of things that could alter this outcome.
Both teams have differing levels of quarterback question marks coming into this game. Pittsburgh also has a ton of injuries that they will have to overcome to beat the Raiders. This seems like a game the black and gold should win on paper, but that doesn't always mean great things.
If the Steelers want to turn their season around, they will need some star players to contribute effectively.
Big performances from the Steelers stars will go a long way vs. Raiders
Najee Harris
Since the Raiders have a solid pass rush, the Steelers will need to rely on Najee Harris and the run game to slow them down. If Harris and company can find consistent ways to run the ball effectively in this game, then Pittsburgh's chances of winning will shoot up. Christian Wilkins will be out for the Raiders, so that should weaken the Las Vegas defensive front to a certain degree.
Isaiahh Loudermilk
Mike Tomlin said Isaiahh Loudermilk will have an opportunity to sub-in for the injured Nick Herbig and Alex Highsmith. The lack of depth at outside linebackers could directly alter the outcome. The Steelers must find a reliable run-stopper there and produce an average pass rush at minimum. T.J. Watt is going to be blocked by two or three players at a time, and that puts pressure on Loudermilk and company.
Broderick Jones
Even though Broderick Jones might not face Maxx Crosby every snap, it's possible the Raiders star pass rusher could change sides during the game. It is going to be up to Jones to hold the right side if Crosby faces off against Dan Moore Jr. Jones must start to establish himself as an improving young tackle in the NFL. He needs to pick up better qualities to help in the run-blocking portion of his game.
Patrick Queen
When is Patrick Queen going to start playing well for the Steelers? It seems like each week everyone hopes that this will be the game where everything clicks for Queen, but he continues to disappoint. This could be his best chance yet. With the Steelers missing plenty of edge rushers, they might have to blitz their linebackers. Queen was a terrific blitzer in Baltimore and could get more chances.
George Pickens
Pittsburgh can't stop talking about trade rumors and what is going on with George Pickens and the Steelers. He took plays off last week and seems to be in the doghouse with Tomlin. The black and gold need their best receiver, and this could be a great week for him. Pickens has a ton of talent, and Las Vegas has a weak secondary. If Justin Fields has enough time, Pickens should get plenty of targets.