As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for their Wild Card showdown against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday, they will enter the game as heavy underdogs. Despite the Ravens’ formidable record and momentum heading into the playoffs, the Steelers will draw confidence from their historical success against Baltimore in both the regular season and postseason. Although the Ravens are the favorites in this contest, Pittsburgh’s legacy in these high-stakes matchups could help them remain competitive in a game that is sure to be hard-fought and physical.
A Rivalry with History
The rivalry between the Steelers and Ravens has long been one of the most intense in the NFL, especially since both teams reside in the AFC North. Over the years, these two teams have developed a deep and fierce rivalry, characterized by brutal, defensive-minded games and thrilling finishes. This game will add another chapter to a long-standing history of hard-hitting battles between these AFC North powerhouses.
In their four postseason encounters since their first meeting in 1996, the Steelers have generally had the upper hand, winning three out of the four games. This gives Pittsburgh some psychological advantage heading into the game despite their underdog status. Their most recent playoff meeting came in 2014, where the Steelers edged out the Ravens in a dramatic 30-17 victory in the AFC Wild Card game. However, it’s important to note that all four playoff games have been closely contested, and this game promises to be no different.
Saturday’s game will mark the first time the Steelers and Ravens have squared off in a postseason game hosted in Baltimore. While this could play a significant role in the Ravens’ favor due to the home-field advantage, the Steelers have historically been able to rise to the occasion in hostile environments. That said, this time they face a highly motivated Ravens team that has been firing on all cylinders.
Lamar Jackson: The X-Factor
The Ravens come into this game with one of the most dynamic players in the NFL: quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson, who has been an MVP candidate in recent seasons, has been sensational this year, leading the Ravens’ offense with a combination of passing and running that makes him nearly impossible to stop. With 41 passing touchdowns and only four interceptions this season, Jackson is playing at an elite level and is among the favorites to win the NFL MVP award.
Jackson’s dual-threat ability — his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs — makes him an incredibly difficult matchup for opposing defenses. The Steelers’ defense, which has been one of the league’s most consistent, will face one of its toughest challenges of the season in trying to contain Jackson. The Pittsburgh defense, anchored by pass rusher T.J. Watt, will have to generate pressure on Jackson while also being wary of his ability to break free for long runs. If the Steelers can limit Jackson’s big plays and contain his mobility, they’ll have a better chance at keeping the game close.
Baltimore’s offensive line will also play a crucial role in protecting Jackson and opening lanes for the run game. Running back J.K. Dobbins has been effective when called upon this season, adding another layer of threat to an already dangerous offense. The Ravens will need to maintain offensive balance to keep the Steelers’ defense on its heels and prevent them from focusing entirely on stopping Jackson.
Steelers’ Defense: The Equalizer
While the Steelers’ offense has been inconsistent this season, their defense has remained a strength, keeping them competitive in most of their games. Pittsburgh has one of the best defensive units in the NFL, with players like Watt, safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, and cornerback Joe Haden leading the charge. Their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks, defend against the run, and create turnovers has kept them in games, even when their offense struggled.
The Steelers’ defense will need to be at its best on Saturday to have a chance against the Ravens. Watt, who is one of the league’s premier pass rushers, will need to generate pressure on Jackson without leaving gaps for the quarterback to exploit with his legs. Watt’s ability to disrupt the Ravens’ offense could be the key to slowing down Baltimore’s high-powered attack.
Additionally, Fitzpatrick’s ability to read the game and make plays in the secondary will be crucial in limiting Jackson’s passing options. The Steelers’ secondary, despite some inconsistencies this season, has the potential to create big turnovers, which could turn the tide of the game. Pittsburgh’s defense will have to be disciplined, avoid giving up big plays, and capitalize on any mistakes made by Jackson or the Ravens’ offense.
Steelers’ Offense: The Key to Staying Competitive
While the Steelers’ defense will be tasked with containing the Ravens’ explosive offense, the success of Pittsburgh’s offense will be just as important. Quarterback Russell Wilson, despite having a rough stretch towards the end of the season, will need to find a way to lead the offense effectively. Over the last five games of the regular season, Wilson ranked near the bottom of the league in terms of Expected Points Added (EPA), making his performance in this game a major question mark.
If Wilson struggles, the Steelers could look to rely on their running game, led by Najee Harris, to take some pressure off their quarterback. Harris has been solid in the ground game and could play a pivotal role in keeping the offense balanced and preventing the Ravens from stacking the box against Wilson. Harris has the ability to churn out tough yards, and establishing the run will be essential for Pittsburgh’s offensive game plan.
Additionally, the Steelers’ receiving corps, led by Diontae Johnson and George Pickens, will need to step up. The Steelers’ wide receivers have the ability to make plays downfield, and Wilson will need to be accurate with his throws in order to exploit Baltimore’s secondary. If Wilson can find success with his passing game, it will help open up running lanes and keep the Ravens’ defense from focusing solely on stopping the run.
The Playoff Factor
The postseason brings a different level of intensity, and history shows that the Steelers are a team that thrives in high-pressure situations. Pittsburgh has a storied playoff history under head coach Mike Tomlin, who has consistently led his team to success in the postseason. The Steelers have experience in playoff games, and that could prove invaluable as they face a Ravens team looking to advance to the next round.
For the Ravens, this game presents an opportunity to exorcise some playoff demons, as they have lost three of their four postseason matchups with the Steelers. Baltimore is an improved team from years past, and their offense, led by Jackson, is firing on all cylinders. However, the Ravens’ tendency to play tight games with the Steelers, combined with Pittsburgh’s resilience in big moments, suggests that this game may not be as one-sided as some might expect.
Conclusion
The Steelers are heavy underdogs heading into their Wild Card matchup with the Ravens, but they have history on their side. While the Ravens have a more explosive offense and a highly talented quarterback in Lamar Jackson, the Steelers’ defense and veteran leadership give them a fighting chance. Pittsburgh will need a strong performance from Wilson, their defense, and their special teams to have any hope of advancing past the Ravens. If they can contain Jackson and capitalize on any mistakes, the Steelers could pull off the upset and advance to the next round of the playoffs. With so much at stake, this AFC North rivalry is sure to deliver a memorable playoff game.
