Pittsburgh Steelers and Las Vegas Raiders odds, expert tips on how to watch: Offensive issues cloud both teams’ prospects

Inconsistent offense and changes at quarterback make for an interesting matchup as the Las Vegas Raiders host the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Raiders announced Wednesday that they would trade Gardner Minshew for Aidan O’Connell. Meanwhile, the Steelers have concerns about a slow-starting offense during a two-game losing streak. Pittsburgh is currently the slight favorite in this duel.

Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce didn’t want to commit to a starting quarterback early in the week after benched starter Gardner Minshew and backup Aidan O’Connell played large portions of Week 5 and neither separated from the other. On Wednesday, the team announced it would select O’Connell.

Las Vegas’ offense struggles to protect the QB (25th in sacks per pass attempt) and cannot formulate a consistent running game (30th in rushing yards per game). There’s also the off-field drama surrounding star receiver Davante Adams and his public trade request. Without proper protection or weapons, O’Connell faces a daunting Steelers defense. Pittsburgh’s second-best scoring defense ranks in the top five in stopping the run (fifth in rushing yards per game), interception rate (fourth) and defensive red zone scoring percentage (tied third).

Pittsburgh’s offense hasn’t scored a first-half touchdown in its last two games. The Steelers rank 27th overall in passing, while quarterback Justin Fields is struggling to find targets downfield. Pittsburgh’s backfield is also reeling due to injuries to Jaylen Warren (active this week) and Cordarrelle Patterson (out). Najee Harris is averaging just 3.3 yards per carry this season, while the Steelers rank 29th in rushing yards per game.

If Pittsburgh struggles early against an average Raiders defense, it could lead to a change at quarterback. Backup QB Russell Wilson returned to full practice this week for the first time since re-aggravating his calf injury.

All odds from BetMGM. Looking for NFL tickets? Find them here.

Odds between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Las Vegas Raiders

How to watch Steelers vs. Raiders

• Venue: Allegiant Stadium – Las Vegas
• Time: 4:05 p.m. ET
• TV: CBS
• Streaming: Fubo (try for free)

Expert Tips for Steelers vs. Raiders

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(Photo by Aidan O’Connell: Patrick Smith / Getty Images)