The Pittsburgh Steelers (+1,500 to win Super Bowl 53) are still atop the AFC North division with a 7-4-1 record, but they’re not out of the woods yet, as the Baltimore Ravens are behind them with a 7-5 slate. They Steelers can add to their slim lead if they can capitalize on a soft opponent in the form of the Oakland Raiders this Sunday. But will the Raiders reverse the script? The sportsbook doesn't think so, making the Steelers double-digit favorites in this Week 14 meeting.
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Betting Preview for the Pittsburgh Steelers vs Oakland Raiders NFL Season Week 14 Game on December 9, 2018
Where: Oakland Coliseum, Oakland
When: Sunday, December 9, 2018, 1:00 PM ET
Line: Pittsburgh Steelers (-11) vs Oakland Raiders (+11) – view all 2018 NFL lines
TV Broadcast: FOX
Betting on the Pittsburgh Steelers (7-4-1)
The Steelers looked like they were on their way to winning their high-profile matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers last Sunday, but collapsed in the second half of a 33-30 home loss to Philip Rivers and crew. What’s worse is that they also lost breakout runninzg back James Conner to a leg injury for at least a week. Conner was not able to finish the Chargers game after getting hurt late in regulation. He’s been already ruled out for Week 14, so the backfield chores in Pittsburgh will fall mainly on the shoulders of Jaylen Samuels. However, the Steelers will likely adjust to Conner’s injury by adding workload for Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers’ passing attack. Roethlisberger had 281 passing yards, two touchdowns, and an interception on 29-of-45 completions against the Chargers. Big Ben, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and Antonio Brown should be able to slice through the Raiders’ defense that is allowing 30.6 points per game.
Heading into Week 14, the Steelers have shown some inconsistency. While they impressed with wins against teams like the Carolina Panthers, they also faced setbacks, including their recent loss to the Chargers.
Part of their challenge has been maintaining momentum in close games, which will be important against the Raiders.
On the road so far this season, the Steelers are 4-1-1 straight up (SU) and 3-2-1 against the spread (ATS), covering exactly 60% of the time.
Betting on the Oakland Raiders (2-10)
The Raiders are coming off a 40-33 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 13, which was just what almost anyone who know their football expected. But don’t let the Raiders’ tattered record make you overlook the fact that quarterback Derek Carr has been solid of late. Against the Chiefs, Carr had 285 passing yards and three touchdowns with zero interceptions on 29-of-38 completions. In fact, Carr has tossed five touchdowns against zero picks over his last three games. He’s playing well and he’s clearly especially dangerous at the moment, so the Raiders will just have to ride the hot hand. Meanwhile, Carr seems to have gotten another body to help him on offense, as the Raiders have just signed veteran running back C.J. Anderson on Tuesday. Anderson joins a crowded Oakland backfield that also features the likes of Doug Jalen Richard, Doug Martin, and DeAndre Washington. Oakland is averaging 24.3 points in their last three games.
The under is 3-1 in Oakland's last four home games.
Raiders' Historical Performance vs. Steelers
Historically, the Raiders have had mixed results against the Steelers. In recent years, the Raiders have managed a few upset wins, showing they can compete despite tough odds.
These past victories might give the team a mental edge and inspire confidence as they prepare for Sunday’s match.
Writer’s Prediction
Injury Report and Its Impact
The injury report for both teams could heavily influence the game. For the Steelers, the absence of James Conner is notable, and backup Jaylen Samuels will play an important part.
Meanwhile, the Raiders are dealing with their own injury issues, including questions around their defensive lineup.
These injuries will test each team's depth as they compete for a win.
Pittsburgh wins, 33-23.
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The post Pittsburgh Steelers vs Oakland Raiders Predictions, Picks, Odds, and Betting Preview – NFL Week 14 – December 9 2018 appeared first on Sports Betting Tips, News, and Analysis.
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