Inconsistent offense and changes at quarterback punctuate an interesting matchup when the Las Vegas Raiders host the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Raiders announced on Wednesday that they would bench Gardner Minshew for Aidan O’Connell. Meanwhile, the Steelers are facing concerns about a slow-starting offense during a two-game losing streak. Pittsburgh is currently the slight favorite in this matchup.
Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce wouldn’t commit to a starting quarterback early in the week after benched starter Gardner Minshew and backup Aidan O’Connell both played large chunks of Week 5, with neither separating from the other. On Wednesday, the team announced they were opting to start O’Connell.
The Las Vegas offense struggles to protect the QB (25th in sacks per pass attempt) and can’t formulate a consistent running game (30th in rushing yards per game). There’s also the off-field drama surrounding star receiver Davante Adams and his public trade request. Without proper protection or weapons, O’Connell faces a daunting Steelers defense. Pittsburgh’s second-best scoring defense ranks top five in stopping the run (fifth in rushing yards per game), interception rate (fourth) and defensive red zone scoring percentage (tied third).
Pittsburgh’s offense hasn’t scored a first-half touchdown in the last two games. The Steelers rank 27th in total passing as quarterback Justin Fields struggles to find targets downfield. Pittsburgh’s backfield has also faltered with injuries to Jaylen Warren (active this week) and Cordarrelle Patterson (out). Najee Harris is only averaging 3.3 yards per carry this season as the Steelers are 29th in rushing yards per play.
If Pittsburgh struggles early against an average Raiders defense, it could fuel a change at quarterback. Backup QB Russell Wilson was a full practice participant this week for the first time since re-aggravating his calf injury.
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Pittsburgh Steelers at Las Vegas Raiders odds
How to watch Steelers vs. Raiders
- Venue: Allegiant Stadium — Las Vegas
- Time: 4:05 p.m. ET
- TV: CBS
- Streaming: Fubo (try for free)
Expert picks for Steelers vs. Raiders
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(Photo of Aidan O’Connell: Patrick Smith / Getty Images)
