5 bold predictions for the Steelers against the Raiders

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ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 12: Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers takes the snap during the second quarter against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on September 12, 2021 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /

In a matchup that has seen such rich history, what can we expect this time around in the latest chapter of the Steelers and the Raiders?

The Pittsburgh Steelers will host the Las Vegas Raiders in their home opener in Week 2 of the NFL season. This is a rivalry that dates back north of four decades, and here is what to expect in the latest installment of Pittsburgh vs. Las Vegas.

5 bold predictions for the Steelers vs. Raiders

1. The Raiders will keep the game close

The Raiders have given the Steelers fits in the Ben Roethlisberger era. Big Ben is just 2-5 against the Silver and Black in his career, and the matchups between these two teams have featured some noteworthy Raiders wins.

In 2006, Roethlisberger threw four interceptions in a 20-13 loss. In ’09, the two teams had a fourth quarter shootout with future Steelers backup Bruce Gradkowski helping the Raiders win 27-24.

From what we saw from both Pittsburgh and Las Vegas in Week 1, there is no reason to believe this game won’t come down to the final minutes of the fourth quarter. The Raiders are riding high off an overtime win against Baltimore, and the Steelers upset the Bills in Buffalo.

While it can be said that the Steelers have the better team and coach, the Raiders aren’t just going to lay down. Derek Carr got into a groove late against Baltimore, and Darren Waller also had a big game in the team’s Week 1 overtime win.

The Steelers have the home-field advantage in their Week 2 home opener, but I’d bet the Las Vegas Raiders to cover in a close matchup between 1-0 teams.

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