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 throws a pass against the Buffalo Bills during the first half at Highmark Stadium on September 12, 2021 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images) /

4. Big Ben plays big

Outside of a few select chunk plays, the Steelers passing game looked all too familiar against Buffalo. A lot of short to intermediate passes and screens that acted as an extension of the run game.

If you remember, though, the Steelers passing game wasn’t much better in Week 1 of 2020 against the Giants. Sure Ben threw three touchdown passes, but it’s not as if they were lighting it up through the air against New York.

What happened the following week? The Broncos came to Pittsburgh and the passing game was superb. Chase Claypool had an 84-yard touchdown, and Diontae Johnson had a big day and a touchdown, as well.

The Ravens were able to spread the ball around in Week 1 against Vegas. Sammy Watkins had a big night, as did Hollywood Brown. The Steelers top three receivers are better than any receiver on the Ravens roster, and James Washington would be the Ravens WR2.

There are a ton of parallels between 2020 and ’21 — opening the season with a win against a New York team and then having their home opener an AFC West opponent for the passing game to explode. Expect Big Ben to let it fly.

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