After ceding a first-drive touchdown in Las Vegas, the Steelers' defense got nasty and unleashed a relentless, fly-to-the-football-and-gang-tackle assault on the Raiders.
It was impressive but far from unprecedented.
"I think we've chased the ball all year," defensive coordinator Teryl Austin maintained. "I don't think last week was any different, I just think, when the ball was on the ground we were able to get it this last week.
"I've been very pleased with how our guys have chased the ball all year and the way we rally and get after it. In some weeks it shows up better than others."
Two fumble recoveries showed up it last Sunday's 32-13 victory at Allegiant Stadium.
After marching 70 yards in 10 plays for a touchdown on a drive in which they never faced a third down, the Raiders' next eight positions ended with a punt, a punt, a lost fumble, the end of the first half, a blocked punt, a punt, a fumble and an interception.
Quarterback Justin Fields ran for a 7-yard touchdown on the first snap after cornerback Donte Jackson's interception and 24-yard return midway through the third quarter.
Kicker Chris Boswell's extra point increased the Steelers' lead to 22-7 at that juncture.
In addition to stuffing the Raiders, the Steelers' defense (and special teams) set the table for scoring drives by the offense that began at the Raiders' 30-, 9-, 7- and 36-yard lines.
Such complementary football inspired compliments from Austin.
"I like where we are," he assessed. "I like how we're progressing. I think our guys are really coming together.
"When you watch us on tape I like our team speed, I think we've improved that. We've added some good veteran additions, which have helped us. I like where we are right now."
Up next is a date with quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets on Sunday night at Acrisure Stadium.
The Jets traded for wide receiver Davante Adams this week, but the Steelers may be in line to get outside linebacker Alex Highsmith back in the lineup.
Highsmith has missed the last three games with a groin injury.
"Obviously, when you have another quality rusher they have to account for both of them," Austin said. "Those guys face that all the time. I don't think it affects (outside linebacker) T.J. (Watt) because they're always going to be doing things to take care of him (in pass protection). Now that gives Alex some opportunities. And if it keeps an extra guy in the protection, that helps us in terms of not having so many guys out (in pass routes).
"We'll see how they approach the game. We'll see how much Alex is ready to do and if he's ready to do it."
