For a matchup that was once the path to the Super Bowl, this one has lost much of its luster. The Steelers are fighting for their playoff lives at 6-5, whilst the Raiders are reeling at 3-8 and staring down the barrell of their seventh straight double digit loss season.
The Steelers have lost their last three games which has all but eliminated them from the playoff race. They need to run the table to have any hope at all of the post-season. They will be aided by the return of Ben Roethlisburger aftger his concussion.
The Raiders, on the other hand, are a team without an identity who have been floundering for the better part of the past decade. They have shown some signs of life after benching their number one draft pick JaMarcus Russell in favor of Bruce Gradkowski, but still have no offensive rhythm of defensive consistency.
HISTORY:
The Raiders lead the all time series 9-8
In the post-season they are tied at 3-3
First meeting: The Raiders beat the Steelers 31-14 In a game on 10/25/1970 at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh.
Last meeting: The Raiders won 20-13 in a game on 10/29/06 at the Oakland Coliseum.
When the Raiders have the ball:
The Raiders offense has been able to move the ball much better since Gradkowski supplanted Russell as the starter. In two games as starter, Gradkowski has more touchdown passes than Russell had in nine. However, that offense is still far from a consistent threat. If the Raiders get down early, and are forced to abandon the run, this offense falls completely apart.
When the Steelers have the ball:
The Raiders defense is the very definition of inconsistent. They are among the league leaders in both tackles for losses and big plays allowed. The biggest issue with the defense seems to be letting up after getting the stops. They need to get off the field on third downs. One of their big weaknesses has been giving up big plays against the screen passes, and Pittsburgh feats on screen plays. If the Raiders defense doesn't play with gap discipline, it could be a long game for the Silver and Black.
You can also find Patrick Patterson on Thoughts from the Dark Side.
Comments
Raiders win if Polamalu sits this one out. Ben Rapelisberger will hurt his team with ints and miscues. We need to see a lot of Michael Bush this week! Gradkowski will play a lot better this week, and Heyward Bey will get his second touchdown of the year. Schilenz will shine and Murphy will add catches. Mcfadden will be used more as a slot receiver this game. Miller will be Miller, solid #1 go to guy for Ski.
Sure
Ha! Sure indeed!
Glad you guys got the irony.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!