Each week, our football staff at DK Pittsburgh Sports predicts the Steelers' result, along with sharing a few related thoughts.
For a full preview of this matchup with the Raiders, check my Kickoff.
Chris Halicke (7-7): This is the first time I've felt the Steelers have a distinct advantage heading into a game all season. The frigid temperatures favor them. And while Mike Tomlin doesn't seek Franco Harris' tragic death as "motivational fruit" to rally around, it's clear the players want to win this game for Mr. Harris. The Steelers will have their hands full at containing all of the weapons the Raiders have on offense, particularly Davante Adams, given how poorly the cornerbacks have played. I'm betting on this Pittsburgh team winning this the old school way -- built on the running game, low scoring and hard-hitting defense. Steelers, 16-13
Matt Williamson (6-8): Happy Holidays, everyone! I have the Steelers winning this game on a late field goal by Chris Boswell. Emotions will be incredibly high, the Raiders' healthy weapons are frightening, for sure, and Derek Carr has destroyed the Steelers throughout his career. But I think the Steelers have a huge advantage against Vegas' offensive line as well as against their coverage people and home field advantage could be huge in this matchup. Steelers, 24-23
Ramon Foster (6-8): Carr can make plays. Adams is a guy that's super solid. If there's a level of concern, it's him and Waller at times. This is a will power type of game, considering the weather and elements. Maxx Crosby is a legit player. Chandler Jones can make plays in spurts. If our run game is better than Jacobs this week, we win the game. I've got a feeling it's going to be a point to make our run game better than anything Jacobs is doing. I do think they find a way, by any means. This will be a good one. Steelers, 21-18
Dejan Kovacevic (5-9): It's not just that Carr threw for 382 yards on his most recent visit in 2019. He was stirring with his accuracy, in particular the deep ball, and was beating better-than-the-norm coverage. Looked like a star, really. And that was without having Adams as a target, without having this miserable collection of corners to attack. ... But you know, some stuff's not easily explained. This exact score won't be an accident: Steelers, 13-7
Let's have your picks in the comments!
