Steelers (1-1) at Raiders (1-1)
Sunday, 8:20 p.m. EDT, Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas TV: NBC
Spread (BetMGM):
Steelers by 1
Steelers’ keys to victory: They want to win with their defense and rushing attack. But this is a game where QB Kenny Pickett will need to create big plays in the passing game. WR Diontae Johnson (hamstring) is unlikely, so look for Pickett to target WR George Pickens downfield. If Pittsburgh can create chunk plays in the passing game, it shouldn’t have any problem moving the ball.
Raiders’ keys to victory: The No. 1 goal is finding a way to slow down LB T.J. Watt, who can be a game-wrecker and is always a threat to create splash plays. RT Jermaine Eluemunor will be assigned to Watt, but you can bet that head coach Josh McDaniels will make sure that they chip him early and often. If the Raiders can stay balanced on offense, they should be able to control the clock and keep QB Jimmy Garoppolo out of unfavorable down-and-distances. Look for the Raiders to run early and often.
Matchup to watch: Steelers RT Chukwuma Okorafor vs. Raiders DE Maxx Crosby. Crosby is one of the best run-defending defensive ends in the NFL and will get matched up against Okorafor. Crosby never moves around the formation, so expect the Steelers to use multiple players on the right side to help slow him down.
Who wins? The Steelers have always been a good prime-time team under Mike Tomlin, and that should continue. Expect this to be a close game with both teams leaning on their defense and their run game. However, Pittsburgh is the more talented team and should be able to limit the Raiders offense.
Steelers 24-17