Raiders-Steelers Week 6: 5 things to watch

Keys to a home victory

The Las Vegas Raiders host the Pittsburgh Steelers Sunday at Allegiant Stadium. Kickoff is set at 1:05 p.m. PT.

Here are the keys to victory for the Raiders:

Block T.J. Watt:

Watt, the Steelers’ star pass-rusher, is one of the best players on the planet regardless of position. He is a true game wrecker. He is to the Steelers what Maxx Crosby is to the Raiders. He starts it all. The Raiders’ offensive line has been shaky in pass protection this season. Watt can take over this game if the Raiders aren’t careful. He must be accounted for.

Contain Justin Fields:

Fields, the Steelers’ quarterback, is far from perfect. But he can make some plays with both his arm and his feet. The Raiders have struggled against quarterbacks this season and it’s not like they’ve played world beaters for the most part. Fields can’t be allowed to take over.

Win turnover battle:

The Raiders have just two takeaways this season with two interceptions. It is their fewest amount through five games in team history. To make matters worse, the Raiders have nine giveaways (six interceptions, three lost fumbles). Their minus-seven turnover differential is tied for the worst in the NFL with the Tennessee Titans.

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Feed Bowers:

Bowers was a bright spot in the blowout loss at Denver in Week 5. He has 28 catches this season. With the Davante Adams’ saga, Bowers is the Raiders’ top receiving option. He is up for the job. He flourished against Denver without Adams and fellow tight end Michael Mayer in the game. The offensive game plan must start with him.

Clean up penalties:

The Raiders were penalty stars of the three games, but they have lost the penalty battle the past two games. It was a major problem against Denver as the Raiders were flagged 11 times for 79 yards. This team isn’t good enough right now to overcome that. They must revert to their early-season penalty days.