The Baltimore Ravens will face the Pittsburgh Steelers in an intense rivalry game during the NFL Wild Card round. To give you all the information you need about this game—its date, TV channel, and betting odds—I’ll walk you through everything.
Date of the Game
The specific date for the Wild Card round game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers will depend on the NFL’s official schedule for the 2025 playoffs. The NFL typically announces the full Wild Card round schedule after the regular season concludes, but Wild Card weekend usually takes place on the first Saturday and Sunday following the conclusion of the NFL regular season, which typically falls on the first weekend of January.
In 2025, assuming the Ravens and Steelers both qualify for the playoffs and meet in the Wild Card round, it would likely take place on either January 10-12 or January 17-19, depending on whether the game is scheduled for the first or second week of the playoffs. The official date will be confirmed after the regular season wraps up and the playoff matchups are finalized.
TV Channel
The NFL Wild Card games are typically broadcast on national networks such as CBS, Fox, or NBC, depending on which conference is playing. Since the Ravens and Steelers are both AFC teams, their game will likely be aired on CBS or NBC. You can expect to find the official TV schedule posted after the league announces the finalized playoff matchups.
- CBS typically broadcasts AFC games, so there is a high probability that this game will be on CBS.
- NBC occasionally broadcasts playoff games, particularly Sunday night matchups, so there is a chance this game could also be featured on NBC, depending on the time slot.
For fans who prefer streaming, the game is likely to be available on platforms like Paramount+ (CBS’s streaming service) or Peacock (NBC’s streaming platform).
Game Odds
Betting odds for this matchup will likely shift based on the regular season outcomes, injuries, and other factors leading up to the game. Here are the key things to know about the odds and the factors that might impact them.
- Point Spread: The point spread represents the number of points one team is favored by. For example, if the Ravens are favored by 3 points, they need to win by at least 3 points for a bet on them to pay off.
- Over/Under: This represents the total combined score of both teams. Bettors can wager on whether the total score will be higher or lower than the number set by oddsmakers.
- Moneyline: The moneyline is a bet on which team will win outright, without regard to the point spread. A team with a minus sign (e.g., Ravens -150) is the favorite, while a team with a plus sign (e.g., Steelers +130) is the underdog.
- Betting Trends: Rivalry games like the Ravens vs. Steelers often have close spreads and can be unpredictable due to the history and fierce competition between these two teams.
Example Betting Odds (Subject to Change)
Let’s use a hypothetical set of odds to illustrate how the betting lines might look for a Ravens vs. Steelers Wild Card game:
- Point Spread: Ravens -3.5
- Over/Under: 44.5 total points
- Moneyline: Ravens -180, Steelers +150
Rivalry Context and Impact
The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers have one of the most intense rivalries in the NFL. Known for their physical style of play and often coming down to the wire, games between these two teams are always hard-fought. Both teams boast passionate fanbases, with the rivalry only getting more heated with each season. This particular playoff matchup would be no different, with high stakes and even higher tension.
Key Factors to Watch
Several key factors will determine the outcome of the game, and bettors should pay attention to these elements when assessing the odds and making their predictions.
1. Quarterback Play
Quarterback play will be critical in determining who comes out on top. Both teams rely heavily on their quarterbacks to orchestrate their offenses, and whichever signal-caller can perform under pressure in this high-stakes environment will have a significant impact on the game.
For the Ravens, Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat abilities give them a unique edge. Jackson’s ability to extend plays with his legs while also making throws downfield will be crucial against the Steelers’ defense.
On the other hand, if the Steelers are starting Kenny Pickett, his ability to avoid mistakes and manage the game will be key, especially in the postseason, where turnovers can be game-changers.
2. Defense
Both teams pride themselves on their defense. The Ravens’ defense, led by defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, has been one of the most consistent units in the league. The Steelers, meanwhile, are known for their aggressive approach under defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, with pass rusher T.J. Watt capable of taking over a game on his own.
The game could come down to which defense can make the bigger play, whether through turnovers, sacks, or forcing the opposing offense into uncomfortable situations. Historically, the Ravens and Steelers have played many games that are decided by one or two big defensive plays.
3. Coaching
The battle between the coaching staffs will also be a critical factor. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh is a veteran playoff coach who knows how to handle the postseason’s pressures. On the Steelers’ side, Mike Tomlin’s leadership and experience in the playoffs will be pivotal, particularly in a game where emotions are running high due to the rivalry.
4. Health and Injuries
Injuries are always a significant factor in playoff games. Lamar Jackson’s health will be closely monitored, as he has been dealing with various injuries over the past few seasons. For the Steelers, the availability of key players like T.J. Watt and other defensive stalwarts will be crucial.
