Steelers Without George Pickens, Ravens Aim to Strengthen AFC North Lead
Steelers vs Ravens: AFC North Clash with Playoff Implications
Saturday’s primetime matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens will have significant implications for the AFC North race. Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. ET at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, as both teams fight to solidify their playoff positioning. The Ravens, who come into this game as 6.5-point favorites, are aiming to improve their playoff seeding, while the Steelers are looking to bounce back after a tough loss.
The game total is set at 45 points, reflecting the contrasting offensive styles of both teams. Pittsburgh has been solid defensively all year, while Baltimore boasts one of the most potent offenses in the league. Let’s dive into how these two teams stack up as they prepare for a crucial division rivalry game.
Steelers Struggling Without George Pickens: Offense Must Step Up
The Pittsburgh Steelers (10-4) are coming off a disappointing 27-13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, where their offense was stagnant, managing only 163 total yards. The Eagles controlled the game, outgaining Pittsburgh by over 200 yards and holding the ball for 19 minutes longer. The Steelers’ offense was hindered further by the absence of top receiver George Pickens, who remains out due to a hamstring injury.
Russell Wilson has taken charge of Pittsburgh’s passing game in Pickens’ absence, throwing for 1,912 yards and 13 touchdowns in 8 games this season. Wilson will lean on tight end Pat Freiermuth (47 receptions, 492 yards, 6 TDs) and receiver Calvin Austin III (47 receptions, 452 yards, 4 TDs) to step up in the aerial attack. However, without Pickens’ dynamic playmaking ability, the Steelers will need to find ways to move the ball consistently against the Ravens’ defense.
On the ground, the Steelers continue to rely on Najee Harris, who has 891 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns this season. Pittsburgh’s ground game ranks 10th in the league, averaging 126.6 rushing yards per game. The defense remains their strength, allowing just 18.9 points per game, which ranks 6th in the league. However, with T.J. Watt and other key defensive players listed as questionable, Pittsburgh may face challenges slowing down Lamar Jackson’s high-powered offense.
Ravens Look to Make Statement in AFC North Race
The Baltimore Ravens (9-5) enter this game with a dominant 35-14 win over the New York Giants, where they outgained the Giants 445-236 in total yards. Quarterback Lamar Jackson was superb, completing 21 of 25 passes for 275 yards, and he also contributed 43 rushing yards on the ground. Jackson’s ability to both pass and run makes him a dual threat that will be a major challenge for the Steelers’ defense.
Jackson, who ranks 7th in the NFL with 3,580 passing yards, has thrown 34 touchdowns against just 3 interceptions this season. His top receiving targets are Zay Flowers (66 receptions, 916 yards, 4 TDs) and Rashod Bateman (38 receptions, 654 yards, 7 TDs). On the ground, the Ravens’ Derrick Henry has been a force, rushing for 1,474 yards and 13 touchdowns. Baltimore’s run game ranks 2nd in the league, averaging 178.4 rushing yards per game.
While Baltimore’s offense is explosive, the defense remains a concern. The Ravens have allowed 23.7 points per game (22nd in the NFL) and 258.9 passing yards per game (31st). However, their defense excels against the run, ranking 1st in the league, allowing just 80.7 rushing yards per game. The defensive line, led by George Karlaftis and Chris Jones, will need to pressure Russell Wilson and disrupt Pittsburgh’s passing game.
Conclusion
This AFC North battle is sure to deliver fireworks, with playoff spots and division pride on the line. Whether you’re a Steelers or Ravens fan, be ready for a thrilling game that could shape the landscape of the AFC playoff picture.
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