The Las Vegas Raiders' woes continued in Week 6 as they were throttled 38-20 by the Pittsburgh Steelers at home. The loss marks the Raiders' fourth straight defeat and drops their record to 1-5 on the season.
The Raiders' offense struggled once again, failing to generate any consistent rhythm or scoring opportunities. Quarterback Derek Carr was under constant pressure from the Steelers' pass rush, completing only 21 of 34 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Josh Jacobs managed just 60 yards on 18 carries.
Raiders' Losing Streak Extends as Steelers Dominate in Vegas
Meanwhile, the Raiders' defense was unable to contain the Steelers' potent offense, led by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Roethlisberger threw for 300 yards and four touchdowns, including three to wide receiver Diontae Johnson. The Steelers also ran for 121 yards, led by Najee Harris' 38 yards on 15 carries.
The Steelers' defense was a major factor in the victory, limiting the Raiders to just 255 total yards. Linebacker T.J. Watt was a constant presence in the Raiders' backfield, recording two sacks and four tackles for loss. The Steelers also forced two turnovers, an interception and a fumble recovery.
The Raiders were unable to capitalize on the Steelers' mistakes, committing nine penalties for 91 yards. Their special teams units also struggled, with kicker Daniel Carlson missing two field goal attempts.
The Raiders' 1-5 start is their worst since 2014, when they went 3-13. Head coach Jon Gruden is facing increasing pressure to turn things around, but the team has been unable to find any consistency or momentum.
The Raiders have a bye week before facing the Chicago Bears in Week 8. They will need to use the time to address their issues and find a way to get back in the win column.
Carr has now thrown for less than 200 yards in two of his last three games. He has also been sacked nine times during that span. The Raiders' offensive line has struggled to protect Carr, and the team has not found a consistent pass rush to take pressure off the quarterback.
Johnson caught six passes for 90 yards and three touchdowns for the Steelers. It was his second consecutive game with three touchdown receptions. Johnson has emerged as one of Roethlisberger's favorite targets, and his production has been key to the Steelers' offensive success.
The Steelers' defense has been one of the most consistent units in the NFL this season. They have allowed only 18 points per game, which ranks second in the league. Watt has been a major force, and the Steelers' secondary has been playing well.
The Raiders' outlook remains dim after their fourth straight loss. They have a tough schedule ahead, with games against the defending Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the undefeated Denver Broncos, and the Kansas City Chiefs. The Raiders will need to find a way to turn things around quickly if they want to avoid a losing season.
