The Ravens and Steelers Renew Their Fierce Rivalry
The Ravens and Steelers are set to renew their long-standing rivalry today, and the stakes could not be higher. These two AFC North foes have played each other 52 times since 2000, with the total point differential between them amounting to just 3 points.
This will be the 36th meeting between head coaches Mike Tomlin and John Harbaugh, making it the second-most matchup between two head coaches in NFL history. With the Ravens sitting at an 80% chance to win the division if they win today, and the Steelers at 62% if they come out on top, the outcome of this game could have major implications on the AFC North race.
Steelers Captain Cam Heyward Expects a Physical, Trash-Talking Affair
Steelers captain Cam Heyward emphasized that this rivalry "runs through Pittsburgh and Baltimore" and that you "can't run away from that." Heyward told Kimberly Martin that the Steelers players are expecting "some trash talking" and a "highly contested physical game" today.
Heyward also noted that these games between the Ravens and Steelers often come down to "one possession," underscoring the razor-thin margins that have defined this rivalry over the years. The Steelers are hoping their new quarterback, Russell Wilson, can provide a boost to their offense and help them come out on top in these close battles.
Russell Wilson's Deep Ball and Preparation Key for Steelers
Wilson's ability to connect on deep passes has been a major asset since taking over as the Steelers' starting QB. He ranks 3rd in the NFL in completion percentage on throws over 15 yards downfield, and has the highest QBR on those deep shots since becoming the starter in Week 7.
Steelers players have praised Wilson's leadership and preparation, with Heyward describing him as a "methodical monster" when it comes to getting ready. Tight end Pat Freiermuth also highlighted how Wilson's 13 years of experience and Super Bowl pedigree have had a positive impact on the team's young offense.
Can Wilson's Deep Ball Overcome Baltimore's Struggling Defense?
The Ravens' defense has been historically bad against the pass this season, which could play right into the Steelers' hands and Wilson's strengths. Analysts like Rex Ryan believe the Steelers should look to attack Baltimore deep with their talented receiving corps of George Pickens and Mike Williams.
However, others like Greeny caution that the Ravens may try to take away those deep shots and force Wilson to beat them with intermediate and short throws, an area where he has struggled at times this season. The Steelers' ability to establish the run game with Najee Harris could also be crucial in opening up the passing attack.
Ultimately, this game has all the makings of another classic clash in this storied rivalry. With so much on the line for both teams, the outcome could come down to which quarterback - Wilson or Lamar Jackson - makes the decisive plays when it matters most.
Part 1/5:
The Ravens and Steelers Renew Their Fierce Rivalry
The Ravens and Steelers are set to renew their long-standing rivalry today, and the stakes could not be higher. These two AFC North foes have played each other 52 times since 2000, with the total point differential between them amounting to just 3 points.
This will be the 36th meeting between head coaches Mike Tomlin and John Harbaugh, making it the second-most matchup between two head coaches in NFL history. With the Ravens sitting at an 80% chance to win the division if they win today, and the Steelers at 62% if they come out on top, the outcome of this game could have major implications on the AFC North race.
Steelers Captain Cam Heyward Expects a Physical, Trash-Talking Affair
Part 2/5:
Steelers captain Cam Heyward emphasized that this rivalry "runs through Pittsburgh and Baltimore" and that you "can't run away from that." Heyward told Kimberly Martin that the Steelers players are expecting "some trash talking" and a "highly contested physical game" today.
Heyward also noted that these games between the Ravens and Steelers often come down to "one possession," underscoring the razor-thin margins that have defined this rivalry over the years. The Steelers are hoping their new quarterback, Russell Wilson, can provide a boost to their offense and help them come out on top in these close battles.
Russell Wilson's Deep Ball and Preparation Key for Steelers
Part 3/5:
Wilson's ability to connect on deep passes has been a major asset since taking over as the Steelers' starting QB. He ranks 3rd in the NFL in completion percentage on throws over 15 yards downfield, and has the highest QBR on those deep shots since becoming the starter in Week 7.
Steelers players have praised Wilson's leadership and preparation, with Heyward describing him as a "methodical monster" when it comes to getting ready. Tight end Pat Freiermuth also highlighted how Wilson's 13 years of experience and Super Bowl pedigree have had a positive impact on the team's young offense.
Can Wilson's Deep Ball Overcome Baltimore's Struggling Defense?
Part 4/5:
The Ravens' defense has been historically bad against the pass this season, which could play right into the Steelers' hands and Wilson's strengths. Analysts like Rex Ryan believe the Steelers should look to attack Baltimore deep with their talented receiving corps of George Pickens and Mike Williams.
However, others like Greeny caution that the Ravens may try to take away those deep shots and force Wilson to beat them with intermediate and short throws, an area where he has struggled at times this season. The Steelers' ability to establish the run game with Najee Harris could also be crucial in opening up the passing attack.
Part 5/5:
Ultimately, this game has all the makings of another classic clash in this storied rivalry. With so much on the line for both teams, the outcome could come down to which quarterback - Wilson or Lamar Jackson - makes the decisive plays when it matters most.