The Baltimore Ravens’ 28-14 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Wild Card Round on January 11, 2025, showcased several key aspects of the team’s performance. Here are five critical takeaways from the game:
1. Dominant Offensive Performance
The Ravens’ offense was a force to be reckoned with, amassing 464 total yards and controlling the game from the outset. Quarterback Lamar Jackson delivered an exceptional performance, completing 16 of 21 passes for 175 yards and two touchdowns. He also contributed 81 rushing yards, demonstrating his dual-threat capabilities. citeturn0news21
Running back Derrick Henry was equally impressive, rushing for 186 yards and two touchdowns. His powerful running game was instrumental in setting the tone early, helping the Ravens establish a commanding 21-0 lead by halftime. citeturn0news22
2. Early Game Dominance
The Ravens’ fast start was pivotal in securing the victory. By halftime, they had outgained the Steelers 308-59 in total yards and held a 19-2 advantage in first downs. This early dominance allowed Baltimore to dictate the pace of the game and put significant pressure on the Steelers’ offense. citeturn0news21
3. Defensive Resilience
While the offense garnered much of the attention, the Ravens’ defense played a crucial role in the win. They held the Steelers to just 280 total yards and limited their scoring opportunities. However, cornerback Brandon Stephens struggled, allowing a significant touchdown in the second half. Despite this, the defense’s overall performance was solid, contributing to the team’s success. citeturn0news19
4. Effective Coaching Strategies
Offensive coordinator Todd Monken’s game plan was effective, utilizing a balanced attack that kept the Steelers’ defense off balance. The combination of Jackson’s passing and Henry’s running exploited Pittsburgh’s defensive weaknesses. Additionally, the Ravens’ defensive schemes effectively contained the Steelers’ offense, limiting their scoring opportunities. citeturn0news19
5. Special Teams and Turnovers
Special teams and turnover management were also key factors in the game. The Ravens maintained possession and avoided critical mistakes, which is essential in playoff football. While specific details on special teams performance were not highlighted, the team’s overall discipline and execution contributed to their victory.