Predicting the outcome of Steelers Week 6 matchup vs. Raiders

Both teams come into this game after a loss. They also share the same situation of a quarterback dilemma heading into this contest. It seems like the Raiders will roll with Aidan O'Connell this week, which will be his first start. That could give Pittsburgh some sway in their direction as Garner Minshew beat the black and gold last season. Either way, this isn't going to be an easy road game.

Injuries are going to play a factor, especially for the Steelers. They will be without most of their edge rushers despite T.J. Watt in the fold. They will also be with their young inexperienced offensive line going up against their biggest challenge to date. There are a lot of variables that could swing in either direction when predicting an outcome for this game. It is going to be a tight battle.

There are weaknesses for both teams when you look at matchups. The Steeler's offense has been flailing while their defense has been attacked both in the slot and at their linebackers in coverage. Las Vegas has its weaknesses, like an inexperienced quarterback and a defensive secondary that is questionable. There are paths to victory for both teams coming into this game.

Pittsburgh vs Las Vegas Week 6 prediction: Steelers 16, Raiders 13

One prediction that seems fairly clear is that this could be a low-scoring affair. Both offenses have shown the ability to score over 20 points in a game this season, but neither has done it consistently. O'Connell shouldn't produce big numbers, but the Steeler's defense must make him uncomfortable despite a battered outside linebacker group. The defense has to find ways to pressure the passer.

When it comes to Pittsburgh's offense, they need to find ways of slowing down the Raiders pass rush. It would be lovely to have Jaylen Warren or Cordarrelle Patterson back this week to help out the run game. The black and gold desperately need their ground game humming in this one. It would make life much easier for their quarterback and would limit pass-rush opportunities against the Raiders.

Turnovers will be huge in this game too. If the Steelers turn the ball over on offense more than once, then it will be the final nail in their coffin. They must play mistake-free football, and the defense must find ways to set up their offense in plus territory. Either that or hopefully Calvin Austin III can produce a quality punt return or two. Points will not come easy for the Steeler's offense in this game.

Expect the Steeler's defense to produce struggles even though they are facing O'Connell. They will allow points but will hopefully bend and not break on most scenarios. The Steeler's offense will have a lot of frustrating moments against the Raider's quality defensive front. Pittsburgh still has the better roster overall, but they will need certain things to go their way to secure a close victory.