By Ray Porter Jr.
LAS VEGAS, NV–After 2 disappointing losses, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ objective as they traveled to Las Vegas was to do whatever it took to get the win vs a Raiders team who was facing their own set of challenges with injuries and QB issues.
And it was mission accomplished for the Black & Gold as they defeated the Silver & Black 29-13 in front of an Allegiant Stadium crowd that had mostly Steeler fans.
“I think the first thing that needs to be said, taken aback by the support we got from our fans, Steeler Nation,” said Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. “You know, continually, man, they show up. I just thought it was awesome; the environment for a road venue was special. It was special to be a part of.”
It may not have been classified as a pretty win, but definitely a hard-fought one. The Steelers defense, who not only had 2 lackluster performances the past 2 games, has also been hit with injuries to significant players like LBs Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig and DeMarvin Leal, overcame an early 7-0 deficit to force 3 turnovers, 2 that were courtesy of LB TJ Watt’s forced fumbles that were recovered. CB Donta Jackson also intercepted his third pass of the season and DT Cam Heyward collected a sack on second-year QB Aidan O’Connell.
“A lot of things, the splash plays, the blocked punt. Can’t say enough about T.J. that hadn’t already been said in terms of his ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. It is special. Not surprised by it, but it’s still special,” said Tomlin.
In addition to 4 Chris Boswell FGs, the Steelers special teams had their second consecutive block as LB Jeremia Moon deflected Raiders P AJ Cole.
The Steelers’ offense has been the subject of great concern during the losing streak and that concern continued in the first quarter as QB Justin Fields (in his 6th consecutive start) could only lead the Steelers to two first-quarter FGs, but late in the first-half (after the Steelers first fumble recovery) he was able to find the end zone on a 3-yard run, giving them a 12-7 lead (missed conversion attempt)
But in the 2nd half, Fields and the Steelers were able to impose their will on the Raiders with the running game as RB Najee Harris easily had his best game of the season as he rumbled for 106 yards, including an impressive 36-yard TD run that extended the Steelers lead to 22-7. Fields would then score his 2nd TD on a 7-yard run, extending their lead to 29-7. He would finish 14/24 for 145 passing yards and 59 rushing yards. WR George Pickens (3 rec, 53 yards) added a key 31-yard pass late in the fourth quarter.
“I just thought it was a collective effort, not only the bigs but the perimeter people. And obviously Naj and everyone else,” said Tomlin. “But I just thought anytime you have a run output like that it’s not an individual, it is a collective. That breakout run, I think Mook (phonetic) sealed the corner and allowed them to go. When I look at it, I just felt the collective energy and effort that was necessary.”
For the Raiders, O’Connell finished 27/40 for 227 yards, a late TD, and an interception. TE Brock Bowers led all receivers with 9 receptions for 71 yards.
The Steelers will now return home and prepare to face the 2-3 NY Jets on Sunday Night Football next week.
“Just really appreciative of getting back on track and handling our business and winning because that’s what this business is about,” said Tomlin. “You know, winning is our business. Football is our game. Winning is our business. We hadn’t been handling business. It was good to get back to taking care of business. This is a normal state for us. It needs to be.”
Notes: Tomlin addressed the injury report: “Zach Frazier has an ankle injury. It will be evaluated. There were some guys that went out of the game but were able to return. Mika was able to go back with a shoulder. Donte Jackson was able to go back with a shoulder, to name a few. We’ll keep assessing those things. I’ll give you an update next time we come together on some of the medical things.”
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