Las Vegas Raiders: Week 2 Keys to victory vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers

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Dec 13, 2020; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) catches a pass as Buffalo Bills cornerback Josh Norman (29) defends during the first quarter at Bills Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

Las Vegas Raiders: 3 Keys to victory against Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2

Limit the explosive plays in the passing game

The Pittsburgh Steelers offense is predicated around the short and intermediate passing routes. Last week, Steelers starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger did not attempt any passes over 20 air yards.

Here is a further breakdown of where he was throwing versus the Buffalo Bills per Pro Football Focus’ premium stats:

Intermediate (10-19 yards)
- 7/11 120 yards, 1 TD
Short (0-9 yards)
- 5/14 30 yards, 0 TD’s
Behind LOS
- 6/6 38 yards, 0 TD’s

As you can see above, Pittsburgh wants to get the ball into the hands of their playmakers in the quick game featuring screens. When you have players such as Chase Claypool and Diontae Johnson, it makes sense.

HENDERSON, NEVADA - JULY 29: Clelin Ferrell #99 of the Las Vegas Raiders runs a drill during training camp at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Healthcare Performance Center on July 29, 2021 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Steve Marcus/Getty Images)

Las Vegas Raiders will need Clelin Ferrell after injury to Yannick Ngakoue

The former Raiders No. 4 overall pick was a healthy scratch on Monday night, but he will be needed after the injury to Yannick Ngakoue.

The Silver and Black’s secondary must remain disciplined and fundamentally sound in tackling open space. Above all, Las Vegas has a tough challenge ahead of them this Sunday. However, if they can follow these keys to victory, it enables them in the best possible scenario to start the season 2-0.

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