NFL Picks: Week 3 Steelers vs Raiders

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The NFL seasonal drama continues to unravel as we step into another pulsating weekend of football. Allegiant Stadium is set to be the gladiator’s arena when the Pittsburgh Steelers lock horns with the Las Vegas Raiders this Sunday. Both teams are coming from diverse outcomes in their previous games and look to redefine their trajectories in this contest.

BUSR NFL Lines

Spread: Steelers +2.5 (-110), Raiders -2.5 (-110) 

Moneyline: Steelers +112, Raiders -136

Total: O 43 (-110), U 43 (-110) 

Pittsburgh Steelers: Resilience and Redemption

The Steelers began their 2023 journey with a game that many fans would prefer to erase from their memories. Their confrontation with the 49ers was riddled with hitches. Trailing by 20-7 in the first half, the Steelers looked for a way back into the game. Unfortunately, the comeback was not to be, and they found themselves on the receiving end of a 30-7 drubbing. Quarterback Kenny Pickett tried to bring some semblance of respect to the scoreline with 232 passing yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions. Wide receiver Allen Robinson tried to bolster the attack with five catches for 64 yards, but the offense struggled. In the running department, Najee Harris could muster only 31 yards from six carries.

However, Pittsburgh showed shades of their former selves against the Browns in Week 2. It was a gritty display from both teams, rife with errors that amounted to six turnovers and 13 penalties combined. The Steelers managed to eke out a win with a scoreline of 26-22. Pickett’s 222 yards and a touchdown pass to George Pickens—who had an impressive 127 yards from four receptions—was a highlight. 

Las Vegas Raiders: A Rollercoaster of Fortunes

The Raiders, on the other hand, had a rather tumultuous start to their 2023 campaign. Their opener against the Broncos was nail-bitingly close, but they managed to scrape through with a 17-16 victory. Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo’s performance, comprising 200 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception, was instrumental. While Josh Jacobs led the rushing with 48 yards, Jakobi Meyers emerged as the star of the match with 81 receiving yards and two touchdowns from nine catches.

However, the momentum didn’t last long. Their Week 2 clash against the Bills was a stark contrast. The Raiders found themselves outplayed and outclassed in a 38-10 defeat. While trailing 21-10 at halftime, they hoped for a revival in the second half. But, that spark never came. Garoppolo could only manage 185 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. Meanwhile, Davante Adams tried to lift the spirit with six catches, totaling 84 yards and a touchdown.

Predictions

Looking ahead to Sunday’s showdown, it promises to be an intriguing contest. While the Raiders had a forgettable outing against the Bills, it’s essential to remember that they are playing on their home turf at the Allegiant Stadium next. A dismal 240 total yards, 185 of which were passing, a mere 13 first downs, and three turnovers from the last game are numbers they’d like to improve upon. Their defense, too, which allowed 450 yards and had zero takeaways, will be under the spotlight.

Yet, despite their recent slump, the Raiders have shown sparks of potential, and a home game could be the ideal setting to bounce back. The Steelers, buoyed by their win against the Browns, will be no pushovers, making this a game of high stakes and higher tensions.

As a spectator, while the temptation might lean towards the home team, the Raiders, given their need for redemption, it’s a tough call. The Steelers, with their recent win, have momentum on their side. However, considering the unpredictable nature of the NFL and the Raiders’ potential, one might give them the benefit of the doubt for a turnaround at home. I’d pick the Steelers to cover the spread on BUSR NFL Odds and spoil the Raiders home advantage.