2024 Week 6: Steelers 32, Raiders 13
Before watching this game I thought it was ridiculous that the Steelers were replacing Justin Fields (not official yet, but we all know it’s happening) after a 19-point victory. After watching the game though, I get it. Pittsburgh had no business winning this game by as much as they did, but as always Mike Tomlin finds a way.
The Raiders (2-4) were already bad but got worse without Davante Adams.
The Steelers improved to (4-2) and are making a change at QB after a blowout victory… that’s how you know this was a bad game for Fields.
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QB Report:
- This game reminded me a lot of the Chicago version of Justin Fields (14/24 for 145 yards, 11 rushes for 59 yards, 2 TDs). Sloppy and inefficient passing but he can run well so he leaned on that. I give credit to the Pittsburgh coaching staff (for the first time maybe ever?) for making the tough but correct decision to go to Russell Wilson. Now if only they could do that with their other playmakers.
- Aidan O’Connell (27/40 for 227 yards, 1TD/1 INT) had a nice clean opening drive and started the game with a touchdown. After that it was just basic offensive stuff. Not playing well or poorly, just playing.
RB Report:
- When Oakland isn’t throwing the ball to Brock Bowers, it’s going to Alexander Mattison (14-33-1, 5 catches for 32 yards). Mattison is really turning his career around this season and is becoming a reliable player, and will continue to be as long as he’s involved in the passing game.
- Rookie RB Dylan Laube played one snap where he got the ball and fumbled. He won’t get real playing for a few more weeks after that blunder.
WR/TE Report:
- George Pickens (3-53-0/8) is likely the big winner with the move to Russ. Wilson is far better in the passing game and even with Pickens not having big games he still could have 3+ touchdowns this year if it weren’t for penalties or bad throws. Throws that Russ would have made. In the offseason and preseason, Wilson raved about Calvin Austin (2-36-0/5) and we saw glimmers of their connection before the season started. Now it’s time to see if that takes off.
- The only receiving threat for Vegas now is Brock Bowers (9-71-0/10). That’s what this entire passing game has become. Throw it to Brock or run/check it down to Mattison.
image source: (AP Photo/John Locher)