T.J. Watt continues game-wrecking DPOY performance in first half vs. Raiders

Where would the Pittsburgh Steelers be without T.J. Watt? In Week 1 against the 49ers, Watt was the only notable performer from the Steelers after a three-sack game. The former 2021 Defensive Player of the Year followed up the season-opener with a strong showing against the Browns that included a defensive touchdown.

Now in Week 3 on Sunday Night Football, Watt gets a matchup with one of the better pass-protecting offensive lines in the NFL. The Raiders wisely chipped on Watt early in the game, but when they didn't draw enough attention to him, you can bet that he would be making plays.

On the first defensive series of the game Watt nearly came up with his second fumble recovery of the season. However, the play was ruled dead. While this play didn't count, it didn't take long to hear his name called again. Watt had a high-quality sack on Raiders right tackle, Jermaine Eluemunor.

After the Steelers advanced the lead with a field goal just before the half, the Raiders had a chance to mount a two-minute drive just before the end of the first half. However, as we have come to expect, T.J. Watt put an end to that with his second sack of the game.

Prior to Week 3, Watt was already leading the NFL with 4.0 sacks. In the first half of Sunday Night Football against the Raiders, the Pittsburgh Steelers star chipped in two more -- bringing the total up to 6.0.

At this rate, there is very little doubt that T.J. Watt will be heavily involved in the Defensive Player of the Year discussion once again. If he can stay healthy, Watt can continue on his legendary pace. He already broke the all-time Steelers sack record last week against the Browns, and the sky is the limit for one of the best defensive players of his generation.