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NFL Week 17: Pittsburgh Steelers vs Baltimore Ravens Preview

Baltimore Ravens Football

Baltimore Ravens Host the Pittsburgh Steelers for Control of Division

The Baltimore Ravens (9-5) will take on the Pittsburgh Steelers (10-4) this Saturday at M&T Bank Stadium. This game is a critical matchup. It has significant playoff implications and control of the AFC North is at stake. What makes it more entertaining is these teams are division rivals and don’t like each other very much.

If the Ravens want to have a chance at the AFC East, they need to win this game. Winning would even their record with the Steelers. They can’t afford to go two games back at this point in the season. It should be a knockdown drag-out in Baltimore in the “Black and Blue” Division.

Steelers Look to Rebound After Loss to Eagles

The Pittsburgh Steelers enter this matchup with a strong record. They are eager to recover from a frustrating loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Quarterback Russell Wilson delivered a lackluster performance, completing just over half his passes for modest yardage and a single touchdown. Despite avoiding turnovers, his efforts weren’t enough to ignite the offense.

The Steelers’ rushing attack also struggled. Najee Harris was largely contained. Calvin Austin III provided one of the few bright spots. He showcased his ability to create plays in the passing game. Overall, Pittsburgh’s offense had difficulty gaining momentum, finishing with limited production both on the ground and through the air.

Defensively, the Steelers faced challenges containing the Eagles’ passing and rushing attacks. While their typically reliable defense has kept them competitive throughout the season, their pass defense remains a vulnerability. Even so, Pittsburgh’s defensive unit is among the league’s most dependable, excelling in limiting total yards and scoring opportunities. Their ability to stifle Baltimore’s high-powered offense will likely be critical in this divisional clash.

Baltimore Ravens Riding Momentum After Win Over Giants

The Baltimore Ravens enter this matchup riding high after a dominant 35-14 win over the New York Giants. Lamar Jackson delivered a spectacular performance. He completed nearly all his passes for almost 300 yards and five touchdowns. Jackson avoided mistakes and demonstrated his signature efficiency. The Ravens’ ground game was equally effective, led by Derrick Henry. Rashod Bateman shined as a top target in the passing attack. Baltimore’s offense once again showcased its explosiveness, combining a balanced rushing and aerial assault to overwhelm the opposition.

This season, the Ravens have been one of the NFL’s most potent offenses. They lead the league in total yardage. They rank among the top teams in scoring. Their dual-threat attack is a consistent challenge for defenses, though penalties have been an ongoing issue that occasionally stalls drives.

Defensively, Baltimore has been less consistent. Their pass defense has struggled. It has allowed significant yardage and multiple touchdowns. However, their run defense has remained stout and often limits opponents to minimal gains on the ground. The Ravens have shown both strengths and weaknesses. They will rely on their firepower to outpace Pittsburgh in this pivotal divisional clash.

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Injuries Could Play a Decisive Role

Injuries could significantly impact this game, particularly for the Steelers, who have several key players listed as questionable. Wide receiver George Pickens, linebacker TJ Watt, and defensive lineman Larry Ogunjobi play pivotal roles. Cornerback Donte Jackson and safety DeShon Elliott are also crucial to the team. Their potential absence could weaken Pittsburgh’s offense and defense. Quarterback Justin Fields‘ status also raises concerns.

The Ravens have fewer injury worries, with only Adisa Isaac and Sanoussi Kane listed as questionable. While their absence would be notable, it doesn’t carry the same weight as the injuries affecting the Steelers.

Wilson vs. Jackson: Quarterback Battle Shapes Steelers-Ravens Clash

Russell Wilson will be under the spotlight for the Steelers. Baltimore’s pass defense has struggled all season. However, they held Wilson to just 205 passing yards. They also recorded one interception in their last meeting. Pittsburgh’s offense has failed to reach 200 passing yards in back-to-back games. Wilson must improve to give the Steelers a chance.

For the Ravens, Lamar Jackson continues to be the centerpiece of their success. Jackson leads the league in yards per carry and has thrown 34 touchdown passes with only three interceptions. He dominates both through the air and on the ground. This makes him one of the most dangerous players in the league. He remains a leading candidate for MVP behind Josh Allen.

Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers: Defensive Heavyweights are on Display

This divisional clash highlights a stark contrast in team strengths. The Steelers rely on their strong defense, particularly against the run, to compensate for an inconsistent offense. Meanwhile, the Ravens feature one of the league’s most explosive offenses. However, their defense remains vulnerable to big plays, especially in the secondary.

The game could hinge on whether Pittsburgh can exploit Baltimore’s pass defense. Both defenses should stay in total control during the game. and it could become a game of who turns the ball over the most. With playoff stakes on the line, expect a thrilling matchup at M&T Bank Stadium.

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Spread: Pittsburgh Steelers +6 (-105) – Baltimore Ravens -6 (-115)  

Money line: Pittsburgh Steelers +240 – Baltimore Ravens -290

Total: O 44 ½ -105 – U 44 ½ – 115

The Dart Throw: We look for the Ravens to win a low scoring and close game. This will be a defensive battle and both teams will struggle to get any momentum on offense. Wilson will have his Steelers offense ready to compete, but can they limit the turnovers. Same with the Steelers defense. Can Jackson lead the Ravens to victory at home? We think so. The Steelers plus the points is the play. With the weather expected to be scattered flurries and sprinkles, offense could be at a minimum. The under is a solid play as well.

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