Odds, Picks, and Prediction for Ravens vs. Steelers in 2024: December 21

As the NFL season heads into the final stretch, two of the league’s most storied rivals, the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers, will square off in a highly anticipated Week 15 matchup on December 21, 2024. This game, set to take place at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, is expected to be a hard-hitting, playoff-like contest, with both teams vying for positioning in the AFC standings. With the stakes high, the Ravens and Steelers are both eager to showcase their talent and push forward as they eye a playoff berth.

In this article, we will delve into the odds, predictions, and key factors for the Ravens vs. Steelers game, analyzing both teams’ strengths, weaknesses, and key players. We will also offer betting odds and provide a final prediction for what promises to be an exciting, physical showdown.

Baltimore Ravens: A Rising Force in the AFC

The Baltimore Ravens have been one of the most dynamic teams in the NFL this season, boasting one of the league’s top defenses and a high-powered offense led by quarterback Lamar Jackson. After a somewhat sluggish start to the season, the Ravens have found their stride, and by Week 15, they are expected to be near the top of the AFC North standings, possibly even challenging for a top playoff spot.

Strengths of the Ravens

1. Lamar Jackson’s Versatility
Lamar Jackson remains the engine that powers the Ravens’ offense. His dual-threat capabilities make him one of the most difficult quarterbacks to defend in the NFL. Jackson’s ability to extend plays with his legs and throw deep balls with accuracy has kept defenses on their heels all season. He has improved as a passer in recent years, and in 2024, he’s made strides in leading the offense with greater consistency. His playmaking ability will be a key factor against the Steelers’ defense, which has been known to pressure quarterbacks relentlessly.

2. Strong Defense
The Ravens’ defense, as always, is a major point of strength. The secondary, led by All-Pro cornerback Marlon Humphrey, is capable of shutting down opposing passing games, while the front seven, featuring players like linebacker Roquan Smith, will look to stifle the Steelers’ running game. Baltimore’s defensive unit has consistently been one of the best in the league, and their ability to get after the quarterback and force turnovers will be crucial in this contest.

3. Running Game
The Ravens’ running game, which complements Jackson’s mobility, is also a potent weapon. The combination of running back J.K. Dobbins and Jackson’s scrambles makes Baltimore’s rushing attack one of the toughest in the league. The Steelers will need to be disciplined in their gap control to limit the damage done on the ground.

Weaknesses of the Ravens

1. Inconsistent Pass Protection
Despite Jackson’s ability to evade pressure, the Ravens’ offensive line has shown vulnerability at times. If the Steelers can create consistent pressure on Jackson, it could disrupt the rhythm of Baltimore’s offense. The Ravens will need to protect Jackson if they hope to find success through the air.

2. Lack of Elite Wide Receiver Depth
While Jackson has made significant strides as a passer, the Ravens’ receiving corps is not considered elite. Wide receiver Zay Flowers has emerged as a promising young talent, but outside of him, the Ravens do not boast a true number-one receiver. The success of the passing attack may rely heavily on Jackson’s ability to extend plays and make big throws on the run.

Pittsburgh Steelers: A Playoff-Ready Team

The Pittsburgh Steelers, under the leadership of head coach Mike Tomlin, have consistently been one of the NFL’s most competitive teams, and 2024 is no different. Although the Steelers’ offense has had its ups and downs, their defense remains one of the league’s most fearsome units, capable of controlling the tempo of any game.

Strengths of the Steelers

1. Elite Defense
The Steelers’ defense remains their hallmark. Led by edge rusher T.J. Watt, the Steelers boast one of the most dominant defensive lines in the NFL. Watt’s ability to pressure quarterbacks is unmatched, and he could be the difference-maker in this game. The secondary, with the likes of Minka Fitzpatrick, provides a solid safety net for the defense, which has a history of shutting down opposing offenses in critical moments.

2. Offensive Playmakers
While the Steelers’ offense has not been as explosive as some might expect, it has shown flashes of brilliance. Quarterback Kenny Pickett has continued to grow, and running back Najee Harris remains a bruising presence in the backfield. Harris’s ability to control the clock and wear down the defense will be critical against a Ravens defense that can be prone to giving up big plays if the run game is not properly contained.

3. Coaching Stability
Mike Tomlin is one of the most respected head coaches in the NFL, known for his ability to motivate his players and win tough games. His experience in high-pressure situations will be invaluable in a rivalry matchup that promises to be an emotional roller coaster.

Weaknesses of the Steelers

1. Inconsistent Quarterback Play
Although Pickett has improved over time, he remains an unproven commodity in big moments. The Steelers’ success may depend on whether he can make the necessary throws to exploit the Ravens’ defense. Pickett’s development in 2024 will be closely watched, as he will need to deliver consistent performances for the Steelers to keep up with the Ravens’ high-powered offense.

2. Offensive Line Issues
The Steelers’ offensive line has struggled at times to create holes in the running game and provide Pickett with the time he needs to make plays in the passing game. Against a strong Ravens defense that likes to bring pressure, this could be a significant concern for Pittsburgh. If the line fails to give Harris and Pickett enough protection, the Steelers’ offense could become one-dimensional.

Head-to-Head Matchup: Key Factors

When analyzing this game, several factors will play a pivotal role in determining the outcome. Here are the key elements to watch:

1. Quarterback Play

Both Lamar Jackson and Kenny Pickett will be under the spotlight. Jackson’s ability to make plays with his legs and arm will be the key to Baltimore’s offensive success. Meanwhile, Pickett will need to step up and prove that he can handle the pressure of playing in a tough environment against a talented defense.

2. Turnovers

Turnovers could very well decide the outcome of this game. Both teams have a history of capitalizing on mistakes, and whoever can force a turnover or two will likely come out on top. Lamar Jackson has been known to make risky throws at times, and the Steelers’ defense, especially with players like Fitzpatrick and Watt, could take advantage of those opportunities.

3. Run Game

The ability to control the clock and sustain drives will be essential for both teams. Baltimore’s rushing attack will look to exploit Pittsburgh’s defensive line, while the Steelers will lean on Najee Harris to grind out tough yards against the Ravens’ defense.

4. Special Teams

In close, hard-fought games like this one, special teams can make a big difference. A missed field goal, a blocked punt, or a strong return could swing momentum in favor of either team.

Odds and Betting Preview

As of December 2024, the odds for this game are relatively tight, reflecting the competitive nature of this matchup. The Ravens are slight favorites at home, with most sportsbooks listing them at -2.5 to -3 points. The over/under is set at 41.5 points, which speaks to the expected physical nature of the game and the strength of both defenses.

Betting Picks:

• Ravens -2.5: Given their home-field advantage and the presence of Lamar Jackson, the Ravens are likely to edge out the Steelers in a tight contest. The Steelers’ offense will struggle to keep pace with Jackson’s playmaking ability.
• Under 41.5: Both teams boast strong defenses, and with the Steelers’ offensive inconsistency, this game could turn into a low-scoring affair. Take the under for a more conservative approach.

Final Prediction: Ravens 20, Steelers 17

This game will be a classic AFC North rivalry, with both teams fighting tooth and nail for supremacy. The Ravens will come out on top, as Lamar Jackson’s ability to create plays will prove to be too much for the Steelers’ defense. However, the Steelers will make it a hard-fought game, relying on their defense and running game to stay in contention. In the end, the Ravens will secure a narrow victory, keeping their playoff hopes alive and strengthening their position in the AFC.

Both teams will undoubtedly bring their best to the field, but with the Ravens’ explosive playmaking and home-field advantage, they are slightly favored to come away with the win in this intense matchup.