Ravens-Steelers: Three Things To Watch

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Post on Nov 18, 2024

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Ravens-Steelers: Three Things To Watch

The AFC North rivalry between the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers is legendary. Every matchup is a brutal, hard-fought battle, and this year's games promise to be no different. With both teams vying for playoff spots, the stakes are incredibly high. But what should fans focus on when watching this intense rivalry unfold? Here are three key things to watch in the Ravens-Steelers games:

1. Lamar Jackson's Performance Against the Steelers' Defense

Lamar Jackson's performance is always a pivotal point in any Ravens game, but against the Steelers, it's magnified. The Steelers' defense, while inconsistent this season, always brings a physical and aggressive game plan to the table against Baltimore. Their ability to pressure Jackson and disrupt the Ravens' running game will significantly impact the outcome.

Key Factors to Observe:

• Jackson's Rushing Ability: Can he still utilize his elusive running style effectively against a tough Steelers' front seven? His legs are a huge weapon, and limiting his rushing yards is crucial for Pittsburgh.
• Deep Ball Accuracy: The Steelers' secondary can be vulnerable to deep throws. If Jackson can connect on big plays downfield to players like Rashod Bateman or Mark Andrews, it will open up the Ravens' offense significantly.
• Protection from the Offensive Line: The Ravens' offensive line's ability to give Jackson time in the pocket will determine how much he can exploit the Steelers' defense. A struggling offensive line can quickly derail Baltimore's offensive rhythm.

Keyword Focus: Lamar Jackson, Ravens offense, Steelers defense, rushing yards, deep ball, offensive line, AFC North rivalry

2. The Steelers' Offensive Line vs. the Ravens' Pass Rush

The Steelers' offensive line has faced significant challenges this season. Their performance directly impacts the effectiveness of quarterback Kenny Pickett and the entire Steelers' offense. Going up against the Ravens' potent pass rush, led by players like Roquan Smith and Odafe Oweh, this unit will be under immense pressure.

Key Factors to Observe:

• Pass Protection: Can the Steelers' offensive line consistently keep Pickett upright and give him enough time to make throws? Sacks and pressures will significantly disrupt their offensive flow.
• Run Blocking: The Steelers' running game needs to establish itself early. Successful run blocking opens up play-action opportunities and keeps the Ravens' defense honest.
• Pickett's Performance Under Pressure: How well does Pickett handle the pressure from the Ravens' pass rush? His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions will be crucial.

Keyword Focus: Steelers offensive line, Kenny Pickett, Ravens pass rush, pass protection, run blocking, pressure, offensive performance

3. The Battle for Field Position and Special Teams

Field position is always critical in a close game, and the Ravens-Steelers matchup is rarely anything but. The battle for field position, largely decided by special teams play, can drastically affect the momentum and outcome.

Key Factors to Observe:

• Punt Returns/Coverage: Big returns or crucial stops in punt coverage can dramatically shift field position and momentum.
• Kickoff Returns/Coverage: Similar to punts, effective kickoff returns and coverage can give a team a significant advantage.
• Field Goal Accuracy: In a close game, reliable field goal kicking can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Keyword Focus: Field position, special teams, punt return, kickoff return, field goal, momentum, game outcome, AFC North

Conclusion:

The Ravens-Steelers rivalry always delivers thrilling and unpredictable football. By focusing on these three key areas – Lamar Jackson's performance, the Steelers' offensive line's struggles, and the impact of special teams – fans can gain a deeper appreciation of the intricacies and intensity of this classic AFC North clash. No matter who you're rooting for, this is a game you won't want to miss.

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