The Pittsburgh Steelers kicked off their 2024 season strong with three consecutive wins, but are now reeling from back-to-back losses to the Indianapolis Colts and Dallas Cowboys. Sitting at 3-2, the Steelers are looking to bounce back as they hit the road to face the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Justin Fields looks to pass against the Dallas Cowboys in 2024.
This matchup feels like a must-win for Pittsburgh. Both of their recent losses were by narrow three-point margins, games they could have easily won. The loss to the Cowboys was particularly crushing, as the Steelers scored a go-ahead touchdown, only for Dallas to march 70 yards and score the game-winner on 4th-and-goal. It was a heartbreaking defeat in front of the home crowd.
The Raiders will be without star wide receiver Davante Adams, but Head Coach Antonio Pierce believes he has some hidden advantages against Pittsburgh. Pierce addressed the media to reveal what those advantages are and how they could impact Sunday's game.
"Our staff did that right away," Pierce said when asked if they picked Luke Getsy's brain for intel on Pittsburgh. "We've got Gerald Alexander, Robert Spillane. We've got some guys that are familiar with Pittsburgh. Whatever intel we have inside the building that we can share is better for us."
The Raiders have added former Chicago Bears Offensive Coordinator Luke Getsy to their coaching staff, giving them a potential advantage. Getsy worked closely with Steelers quarterback Justin Fields during his time in Chicago, providing the Raiders with valuable insight into Fields' play.
Justin Edmonds / Getty Images
Raiders' Robert Spillane looks on during an away game.
Pierce also noted that Gerald Alexander and Robert Spillane have contributed knowledge from their stints with the Steelers. Spillane played for Pittsburgh from 2019 to 2022, while Alexander served as the assistant defensive backs coach from 2022 to 2023. Alexander now coaches the safeties in Las Vegas.
There have been rumblings that Russell Wilson is fully healthy, with some speculating he might start against the Raiders. No matter who plays at quarterback for Pittsburgh, Pierce remains confident, having faced Wilson a couple of times during his tenure with the Denver Broncos.
"The good part is we've gone up against Russell a few times now," Pierce said. "We're familiar with him as well."
The Raiders have had a rough start to the season. After benching quarterback Gardner Minshew II, they will now turn to Aidan O'Connell as their starter.
Despite their struggles, the Raiders still have talent on their roster, and any team coached by Pierce is going to play with intensity. While some may think this should be an easy game for the Steelers, traveling to Las Vegas and walking out with a win won't be a simple task.
Steelers' Week 6 Game Against Las Vegas Feels Like A Must-Win
A win against the Raiders would be a crucial step for the Steelers, helping them get back on track. Falling to 3-3 would be a tough blow, and fans might begin to lose hope for the season. The difference between 4-2 and 3-3 is significant. This game presents a perfect opportunity for Pittsburgh to bounce back and put together a strong, all-around performance.
AP
Steelers' Russell Wilson talks to Justin Fields during a game.
Although the Steelers are favored to win, it won't come without challenges. The quarterback situation remains unclear, with many expecting Fields to start. However, recent reports suggest that Wilson has looked healthy in practice, sparking excitement among fans.
If Wilson starts, it will give everyone a chance to see how he fits into this offense. Many are eager to see what he can bring to the team. Fields, on the other hand, has been solid and made the most of his opportunities. The Steelers have a big decision to make, but regardless of who starts, Pierce and the Raiders remain confident in their ability to compete.
#SteelerNation
