Introduction
The Pittsburgh Steelers and Las Vegas Raiders faced off in a highly anticipated game that highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. The matchup was a display of tactical football and individual player performances, with the Steelers emerging victorious with a final score of 32-13. In this article, we will break down the key statistics from the game, analyze the individual player performances, and discuss the factors that led to Pittsburgh’s dominant win.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Las Vegas Raiders: Game Recap
The game was held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, where the Steelers (4-2) took on the Raiders (2-4). Despite a competitive first quarter, where the Raiders initially held a lead, Pittsburgh’s offense and defense both settled in and eventually dominated. By the time the final whistle blew, the Steelers had put together a strong offensive showing, while the Raiders’ struggles on both sides of the ball became evident.
Team Stats Overview
The game statistics provide a detailed look at how each team performed overall.
- 1st Downs: Steelers (18), Raiders (16)
- Passing 1st Downs: Steelers (6), Raiders (11)
- Rushing 1st Downs: Steelers (10), Raiders (5)
- 1st Downs from Penalties: Steelers (2), Raiders (0)
From the above stats, we can see that the Steelers were able to gain more first downs, particularly through rushing. Their ground game was effective throughout the match, allowing them to control the tempo and keep the Raiders’ offense off the field.
- Total Yards: Steelers (293), Raiders (275)
- Total Plays: Steelers (62), Raiders (60)
- Yards per Play: Steelers (4.7), Raiders (4.6)
These total yard statistics show that while the Raiders were close in terms of yardage, Pittsburgh’s ability to gain yards more efficiently, particularly on the ground, made a difference in the long run.
Rushing vs. Passing
One of the standout factors in the game was Pittsburgh’s success on the ground. The Steelers outpaced the Raiders significantly in rushing yards.
- Rushing Yards: Steelers (183), Raiders (57)
- Rushing Attempts: Steelers (35), Raiders (19)
- Yards per Rush: Steelers (5.2), Raiders (3.0)
The Steelers were in complete control of the rushing game. Their offensive line dominated the line of scrimmage, and the running backs were able to gain significant chunks of yardage with every carry. The Raiders, on the other hand, struggled to establish a running game, which forced them into a one-dimensional offense that was easier for Pittsburgh to defend against.
In the passing game, the Steelers were less effective compared to their ground game, but still managed to accumulate significant yardage, especially in the first half.
- Passing Yards: Steelers (110), Raiders (218)
- Completion/Attempts: Steelers (14/24), Raiders (27/40)
- Yards per Pass: Steelers (4.1), Raiders (5.3)
- Interceptions: Steelers (0), Raiders (1)
The Raiders’ passing game had more yardage, but it was not as efficient. Quarterback Derek Carr had to throw more times (40 attempts), which indicates that the Raiders were playing catch-up for much of the game. In contrast, Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett had a more balanced approach, throwing for 110 yards, and avoided any interceptions. The Raiders, however, threw one interception, which turned out to be a critical mistake.
Key Player Performances
Pittsburgh Steelers
Kenny Pickett (QB)
Kenny Pickett managed the game efficiently, ensuring that the offense maintained balance with both the run and the pass. He completed 14 of 24 passes for 110 yards. Though not a standout performance in terms of passing yards, Pickett avoided turnovers and allowed the Steelers to maintain possession. His ability to stay composed under pressure was crucial in helping Pittsburgh maintain control of the game.
Najee Harris (RB)
Najee Harris had an excellent game, rushing for 100 yards on 20 carries, averaging 5.0 yards per rush. Harris’s ability to break tackles and gain extra yards after contact was key in the Steelers’ victory. His performance allowed Pittsburgh to control the clock and keep the Raiders’ defense on the field longer.
T.J. Watt (OLB)
T.J. Watt continues to be one of the premier defensive players in the league. He contributed significantly to the Steelers’ pass rush, recording 2 sacks and applying consistent pressure on Derek Carr. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback helped disrupt the Raiders’ offensive rhythm, forcing them into uncomfortable situations.
Minkah Fitzpatrick (S)
Fitzpatrick’s presence in the secondary was felt throughout the game. Although the Raiders’ passing game was somewhat productive, Fitzpatrick helped limit big plays, making key tackles in open space and being a constant threat in coverage. His ability to shut down the middle of the field allowed Pittsburgh’s pass rush to pin its ears back and attack Carr with even more ferocity.
Las Vegas Raiders
Derek Carr (QB)
Derek Carr was forced to throw a lot during the game due to the Raiders’ struggles to establish the run. He finished with 218 yards on 27 completions, but his performance was marred by an interception. Carr had trouble finding a rhythm, especially when the Steelers’ defense ramped up the pressure. His inability to protect the ball was one of the contributing factors to the Raiders’ downfall.
Josh Jacobs (RB)
Josh Jacobs, the Raiders’ standout running back, had a quiet game, rushing for just 57 yards on 19 attempts. He averaged only 3 yards per carry, which significantly hurt the Raiders’ chances to balance the offense. With Jacobs unable to get going on the ground, Carr was forced into throwing more, but the Steelers’ defense was able to key in on the passing game.
Davante Adams (WR)
Davante Adams had a solid outing despite the loss, recording 74 yards on 6 receptions. He was Carr’s favorite target, but with the Steelers’ defense focused on limiting big plays, Adams was unable to take over the game. His performance, while commendable, wasn’t enough to shift the balance in favor of the Raiders.
Turnovers and Special Teams
One of the key stats in the game was the turnovers. The Steelers managed to avoid any turnovers, while the Raiders committed three. Of these three turnovers, two were fumbles and one was an interception. The Steelers’ defense capitalized on these mistakes, converting them into points and field position. The Raiders’ inability to hold onto the ball was a significant blow, especially as the game wore on and they found themselves in a hole.
- Steelers Turnovers: 0
- Raiders Turnovers: 3 (2 fumbles lost, 1 interception)
The special teams units also played a role in the game. The Steelers controlled field position and won the battle of possession, holding the ball for 31:51 compared to the Raiders’ 28:09. This helped Pittsburgh maintain control of the tempo, particularly in the second half when they built their lead.
Red Zone Efficiency
Both teams were relatively efficient in the red zone, but the Steelers managed to convert their opportunities into more points.
- Steelers Red Zone (Made-Att): 2-4
- Raiders Red Zone (Made-Att): 2-3
The Raiders’ red zone opportunities came at critical moments in the game, but their struggles to execute plays when it mattered most kept them from capitalizing on their chances. On the other hand, the Steelers were able to convert their red zone possessions into 14 points, helping them extend their lead.
Conclusion
The Steelers’ 32-13 victory over the Raiders highlighted their strong defensive play, ability to control the ball, and efficient rushing attack. The Raiders, on the other hand, were undone by turnovers, poor rushing production, and an inability to break through the Steelers’ defense. Key performances from players like Najee Harris and T.J. Watt helped swing the game in favor of Pittsburgh, while Derek Carr’s struggles and the lack of a consistent running game prevented the Raiders from mounting a serious challenge.
The game also demonstrated how important it is for teams to maintain balance on both sides of the ball. While the Steelers leaned on their defense and run game, the Raiders’ inability to establish any rhythm on offense left them chasing the game. As the season progresses, both teams will need to address their respective weaknesses if they hope to make a deep run in the playoffs.
FAQS
1. Who won the Steelers vs. Las Vegas Raiders game?
The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 32-13 in a dominant performance.
2. What was the key stat in the Steelers’ victory?
The Steelers’ rushing game was dominant, with 183 rushing yards compared to the Raiders’ 57.
3. How did the Steelers perform in the passing game?
The Steelers had 110 passing yards, completing 14 of 24 passes, avoiding turnovers in the process.
4. Which player had a standout performance for the Steelers?
Najee Harris led the Steelers’ offense with 100 rushing yards, contributing heavily to the victory.
5. What were the Raiders’ main struggles in the game?
The Raiders struggled with turnovers, including two fumbles and one interception, which impacted their offensive efficiency.
