Steelers must rely on pivotal players in Week 6 to reshape their 2024 season outlook

The Pittsburgh Steelers face a crucial test in their Week 6 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. A victory would improve their record to 4-2 and set the tone for the rest of the season. This game carries several underlying storylines that may foreshadow how the Steelers’ campaign unfolds.

With high stakes and pressure mounting, each aspect of the team’s performance will be under scrutiny.

Steelers must right the wrongs of the previous two weeks

One of the key narratives to watch is how wide receiver George Pickens responds after a visibly frustrating game in Week 5 against the Cowboys. Despite seven targets, Pickens managed just three receptions for 27 yards, leaving fans questioning his mindset after he expressed visible frustration on the sidelines.

A second-round pick who has shown flashes of brilliance, Pickens is expected to be a cornerstone of the Steelers’ offense. An impressive outing against Las Vegas could silence critics and reaffirm his commitment to the team - setting the tone for his role as Pittsburgh’s primary playmaker. Pickens’ ability to bounce back from adversity will be a significant factor in the Steelers’ offensive success moving forward.

Another major storyline is the Steelers’ defense, which has struggled in back-to-back losses to the Colts and Cowboys. These underwhelming performances have left many questioning whether this unit can meet expectations. Star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick has yet to force a turnover this season, a surprising stat given his usual impact.

Meanwhile, linebacker Patrick Queen, acquired to bolster the defense, has not been able to shore up a porous run defense, which has been repeatedly gashed in recent weeks. With the Raiders boasting an offense that plays with determination and physicality, the Steelers’ defense must rise to the challenge, and their stars—Fitzpatrick, Queen, and others—will be under intense scrutiny.

Steelers must rely on their rushing attack to establish offense

Najee Harris’ performance is also a focal point heading into Sunday. The running back was drafted to be the centerpiece of Pittsburgh’s ground attack, yet he averaged just three yards per carry in Week 5. For an offense that relies heavily on establishing the run, Harris’ lack of explosive production has been a concern.

A dominant performance against the Raiders is necessary not only to balance the offensive attack but also to provide the consistency Pittsburgh has been missing. It’s time for Harris to meet expectations and help carry the load for this offense.

The Steelers have a packed agenda in their Week 6 matchup. A victory over Las Vegas will require a much sharper focus on all fronts—Pickens’ response, defensive accountability, and Harris’s performance in the run game.

While the task ahead is daunting, Pittsburgh has the pieces to make it happen, but it all starts with laser focus and execution. A win could set the Steelers on the right path for the remainder of the season.