The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Las Vegas Raiders on the road in Week 6, and there are certain aspects of the game which can be difficult to predict. Of course, the outcome of the game is paramount, but there are players or position groups who could be viewed as X-Factors.

What is an X-Factor? That definition is an important part of this exercise. If I were to give you a player who was the ultimate X-Factor in Steelers history, it would be Troy Polamalu. Polamalu was able to take over a game almost single-handedly. Whether it being a tackle made where he looked like a heat-seeking missile, or a clutch interception. A game could tilt the Steelers’ way because of Troy.

With the definition out of the way, let’s see who are the X-Factors for the Steelers in the Week 6 game vs. the Raiders:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Offensive Line

Why: When you look at the Raiders defense, there isn’t much they do particularly well. But that doesn’t mean they don’t have a game wrecker all their own who can take over the game. For the Steelers defense his name is T.J. Watt, and for the Raiders his name is Maxx Crosby. Crosby can, and will, take over the line of scrimmage if permitted, and it will be up to the offensive line to keep him in check. Unlike most edge rushers Crosby will line up all over the line of scrimmage, so this isn’t a Broderick Jones vs. Maxx Crosby situation. No, it will take all five, and extra tight ends, to be on their game to nullify the impact Crosby can have on the game. If they do so, the team should be able to move the ball with relative ease against the Raiders defense.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: Beanie Bishop

Why: A team is truly only as strong as its weakest link. Right now, even with all the injuries at outside linebacker, the Steelers slot cornerback is the weakest part of their defense. While Beanie Bishop could very well have a great NFL career, he is coming into his sixth game as an undrafted rookie free agent. If the Raiders can scheme up a way to pick on him, much like the Cowboys did, it’s going to be another long day for the defense. But if Bishop can do his job, be where he is supposed to be, and not have other defenders having to cover for him, the Steelers defense could get back into the shutdown mode fans saw the first three weeks.

Who is your X-Factor for the game? Let us know in the comment section below, and be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for the Raiders in Week 6.