Lamar Jackson leads explosive comeback as Ravens dominate Steelers in AFC North clash
The Baltimore Ravens aimed to reclaim their momentum as they prepared to host the Pittsburgh Steelers in a pivotal Week 14 matchup. With playoff implications looming, the anticipation was palpable among fans and analysts alike, setting the stage for an intense showdown.
Steelers’ Struggles in the Passing Game
Entering the contest, the Steelers faced a glaring issue in their passing game. They had struggled for weeks, failing to complete a single pass over 20 air yards for an entire month. Their performance in November was particularly dismal, finishing 0 for 11 with two interceptions. This lack of offensive rhythm raised concerns about their ability to challenge a Ravens secondary that had proven both disciplined and formidable.
For the Ravens, this presented an opportunity to control the game’s pace. Derrick Henry was trending upwards, and analysts predicted he would surpass 120 rushing yards against a Steelers defense that had quietly become one of the league’s worst against the run in recent outings.
Lamar Jackson’s Return
Lamar Jackson’s absence from Thursday’s practice momentarily stirred unease among Ravens supporters. However, his return on Friday, combined with Todd Monken’s confidence in Jackson’s availability for the game, alleviated those concerns. The quarterback’s performance had been under scrutiny, particularly as he sought to snap a touchdown drought that dated back to November 9 against Minnesota.
If Jackson could elevate his game, the Ravens’ offense had the potential to appear much more cohesive. Historical rivalries often bring a physical edge to the game, and with Baltimore benefiting from renewed momentum and continuity, many analysts leaned towards the Ravens for a narrow victory.
Predictions from Analysts
A chorus of predictions emerged from the Baltimore Ravens On SI staff.
Henry Brown predicted a win for the Ravens but expected a hard-fought battle. He noted Jackson’s recent improvement and the team’s need for a resurgence after previous disappointments. His prediction: Ravens 20, Steelers 14.
Jeremy Brener emphasized the Ravens’ hunger and the advantage of playing at home. With both teams seeking redemption after recent losses, he believed a healthy Jackson would tilt the game in Baltimore’s favor. He foresaw a Ravens victory of 24-17.
Josh Reed was more bullish, foreseeing a vengeful Ravens squad ready to capitalize on the Steelers’ lackluster defense. He anticipated a commanding performance, predicting the Ravens would win decisively, 34-13.
Nishant Gupta echoed the sentiment of a fierce rivalry, highlighting the struggles of both teams. He believed the Ravens would exploit their running game against a beleaguered Steelers defense, leading to a 27-17 win.
Injury Updates and Expectations
As game day approached, the Ravens received some positive injury news, providing a boost to their morale. The team needed to avoid falling into a trap against a Steelers squad that could leverage chaos to their advantage. With Jackson’s sudden practice absence earlier in the week, fans were left holding their breath until he was confirmed fit to play.
As the Ravens geared up for this crucial matchup, the stakes were clear: a commanding win could solidify their position atop the AFC North, while a loss would further complicate their playoff aspirations. The stage was set for an unforgettable clash between two storied rivals.
