The Pittsburgh Steelers defense returned to elite form after two rough outings against the Dallas Cowboys and Indianapolis Colts. They forced three turnovers and suffocated Aidan O’Connell and the Raiders offense. After the Raiders’ initial 10-play, 70-yard touchdown drive, they struggled to generate offense until late in the fourth quarter when O’Connell connected with Kristian Wilkerson for a touchdown.
Despite a few opportunities to break through, the Raiders were repeatedly shut down by the Steelers’ defense. T.J. Watt forced two critical fumbles on toss plays, including one near the goal line that shifted momentum back in Pittsburgh’s favor, keeping the game out of reach.
Later, Donte Jackson intercepted an overthrown pass from O’Connell, setting the Steelers up with prime field position deep in Raiders territory. Special teams also played a key role, with Jeremiah Moon blocking a punt by A.J. Cole, giving Pittsburgh another chance to control the game. The Steelers’ defense dominated throughout, even with an undermanned edge rush.
The Raiders, who averaged less than three yards per rush, failed to make much headway against Pittsburgh’s defense, managing less than five yards per play before garbage-time stats inflated their numbers. It was a dominant showing against a Raiders team missing five key starters for most of the game.
While the Steelers’ defense and special teams excelled, the offense raised concerns despite a 32-point output. Justin Fields ran for two touchdowns and extended plays with his mobility, but his passing performance was inconsistent. He missed several open receivers and threw an interception that was nullified by a roughing-the-passer call. Fields often hesitated, delivering the ball too late and missing key opportunities.
Pittsburgh’s penalty issues in the first half prolonged the game unnecessarily. Holding penalties, delay-of-game calls, and other mistakes frequently set the team back and kept the contest more competitive than it should have been.
On numerous plays, especially up front, Steelers players appeared out of sync, leading to errors like a poorly executed reverse-toss play that left a backside edge rusher unblocked. Center Zach Frazier exited with an ankle injury after a strong start, and Najee Harris found his stride, breaking off three explosive runs and providing the offense with its biggest spark. Harris looked revitalized, running with authority and power throughout the game.
However, despite some highlights, the Steelers’ offensive struggles remain concerning. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s play-calling has been questioned, quarterback play has regressed, and the offensive line continues to struggle with execution. Injuries have taken their toll, and beyond George Pickens, the wide receiver room lacks reliable options.
Even Pickens and star tight end Pat Freiermuth were targeted just twice in the second half, despite their importance to the offense. Although the Steelers earned their first comfortable win of the season and the defense looked revitalized, there are still major questions surrounding the offense moving forward.
