Our Steelers vs Raiders NFL prediction is for the road team Steelers to cover the spread of -3 (-114) and for the score to be under 36.5 (-105).
The Pittsburgh Steelers (3-2) are trying to rebound from their Sunday Night Football loss to Dallas. The Las Vegas Raiders (2-3) are confronted with familiar question marks and controversies as they strive to recapture past glories.
Offshore Odds: Steelers Are Light Favorites on the Road
| Team | Spread | Money Line | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steelers | -3 (-114) | -165 | O 36.5 (-115) |
| Raiders | +3 (+145) | +145 | U 36.5 (-105) |
Steelers Stick to Familiar Strategy
The Steelers are relying on their old-school power ball of a strong running game, high-percentage passing game, and punishing defense. So far in 2024, it has resulted in winning three of their first five games and a tie for first place in the bruising AFC North.
They are keeping their games close and winning or losing low-scoring affairs. Their 20-17 loss to the Cowboys was borderline inexplicable at home, particularly since they forced three turnovers. They are keeping quarterback Justin Fields within specific constraints and utilizing their rushing attack led by Najee Harris.
Expect a familiar strategy against Las Vegas since the Raiders are weak against the run and have a variety of troubles on offense.
Raiders Change Their Starting Quarterback
Raiders coach Antonio Pierce has named Aidan O’Connell as the starting quarterback against Pittsburgh. This is happening while receiver Davante Adams is out with a hamstring injury and wants to be traded; running back Zamir White is out with a groin injury; and defensive end Maxx Crosby is dealing with an ankle injury.
O’Connell was the Raiders’ primary starting QB in 2023 and is replacing veteran Gardner Minshew as the starter vs Pittsburgh.
O’Connell took over for Minshew Las Vegas’ Oct. 6 loss to Denver. He completed 10 of 20 passes for 94 yards and was intercepted once. The Raiders were 5-5 in his 10 starts in 2023. He has a big arm but is largely immobile, presenting a big target for the Steelers’ defensive front led by T.J. Watt.
Prediction: Steelers Win in a Walkover
The Raiders will have trouble scoring and the Steelers are likely to run all over Las Vegas’ shaky rush defense. Expect O’Connell to throw more than one interception and for the Steelers to play it very safe offensively.
This means our Steelers vs Raiders prediction is that Pittsburgh will build up a lead and kill the clock. This will keep the score low. Pittsburgh will cover the spread, winning easily.
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