The AFC North ignites a fierce rivalry as the Baltimore Ravens (7-3) face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers (7-2). This marks the first of two encounters this season, with the Steelers having triumphed in both matchups last year. The Ravens enjoyed a mini-bye after their thrilling 35-34 victory over the Bengals last Thursday, albeit failing to cover the spread as 6-point favorites. The Steelers, on the other hand, edged out the Commanders 28-27 on Sunday as 1.5-point underdogs. Currently, the Ravens are favored by 3 points on the road. The game kicks off at 1:00 PM EST at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, broadcasted regionally on CBS.
Who will claim victory in this vital AFC North showdown? Continue reading for insights on the Ravens vs. Steelers matchup.
Ravens Seek Redemption Against Rivals
The Baltimore Ravens have consistently been a dominant force in the AFC North, yet their encounters with the Steelers have proven challenging. After losing both games to Pittsburgh last season, the Ravens are eager to flip the script this time around. Their recent form has been impressive, winning seven of their last nine contests, with a solitary defeat coming against the Browns. Following a nail-biting win against the Bengals, quarterback Lamar Jackson showcased his skills, throwing for 290 yards and four touchdowns.
Head coach John Harbaugh emphasized Jackson’s pivotal role after the game, stating, “It starts with Lamar, and oftentimes it ends with Lamar. But in between Lamar and Lamar, there’s a lot of great players out there that are surrounding him.” This season, Jackson averages 266.9 passing yards per game, boasting a 69.1% completion rate and an impressive 24-2 touchdown-to-interception ratio. He has also rushed for 538 yards. Derrick Henry has emerged as a key asset, leading the league with 1,120 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, having surpassed 100 yards in three of the last five games. Zay Flowers leads the receiving corps with 50 catches for 688 yards and three touchdowns, while Rashod Bateman has contributed with 31 catches for 501 yards and four touchdowns.
The Ravens lead the NFL in scoring, averaging 31.8 points per game, while their defense ranks 22nd, allowing 25.3 points. Roquan Smith stands out with 97 tackles this season, while cornerback Marlon Humphrey is the interception leader with four. The team has recorded 31 sacks, with linebacker Kyle Van Noy responsible for seven of those.
Injury Report:
Questionable: TE Isaiah Likely, DE Brent Urban, LB Kyle Van Noy, S Kyle Hamilton
Steelers Prepare for Divisional Challenge
The Pittsburgh Steelers lead the AFC North with a 7-2 record but have yet to face any divisional opponents this season. This game against the Ravens marks the beginning of their six-game stretch against division rivals. The quarterback situation in Pittsburgh has stabilized with Russell Wilson starting for the third consecutive game, leading the team to victories in each. In the latest game against the Commanders, Wilson threw for 195 yards and three touchdowns.
Wilson’s precision was exemplified by a crucial 32-yard touchdown pass to Mike Williams, which Coach Mike Tomlin praised, saying, “I’ve seen it a few times on highlights. It’s a little better in person. Believe me.” Wilson’s stats reflect his impact, averaging 245.7 passing yards per game with a 58.8% completion rate and a 6-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Najee Harris is the primary running back, with 645 yards and three touchdowns, though he is dealing with an ankle issue and is listed as questionable. If Harris cannot play, Jaylen Warren is expected to take over the rushing duties. George Pickens stands out as the leading receiver, with 639 yards, while tight end Pat Freiermuth follows with 281 yards.
Pittsburgh’s offense ranks 12th in scoring with 23.9 points per game, while their defense is among the best, sitting at 2nd by allowing only 16.2 points per game. Former Raven Patrick Queen has emerged as a top tackler for the Steelers, contributing 62 tackles. The defense has amassed 22 sacks, with T.J. Watt leading the charge with 6.5. The Steelers have also recorded 10 interceptions, with cornerbacks Donte Johnson and Beanie Bishop Jr. each tallying three.
Injury Report:
Questionable: RB Najee Harris, WR Van Jefferson, CB Donte Jackson
Best Bets for Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
