After a big win over the Commanders, the Steelers return home to kick off their first AFC North matchup of the season in what promises to be their most important game yet. Sunday’s showdown with the Ravens carries huge implications, as the winner will take over first place in the division.
Baltimore, boasting one of the league’s most powerful offenses and a reputation as a top NFL team, presents a serious challenge. However, Pittsburgh has gotten the better of Baltimore in recent matchups.
To secure a commanding two-game lead in the AFC North and solidify their status as Super Bowl contenders, the Steelers will need to step up on both sides of the ball. Baltimore has several standout players who can turn the game in an instant, and Pittsburgh will need to keep a close eye on these 11 key Ravens to maintain control of the division.
QB, Lamar Jackson
Last year’s MVP is already one of the top favorites to secure back-to-back honors, which would mark his third MVP overall. He’s one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks and arguably the most dangerous dual threat the league has ever seen. Every time he drops back to pass, he’s a threat both through the air and on the ground.
Historically, the Steelers have managed to contain him better than most teams, and they’ll likely stick to a familiar game plan that’s worked well against Lamar Jackson in the past. Expect them to blitz aggressively and assign a dedicated defender to shadow Jackson, while also covering the dive player in the RPO game. Similar to their approach last week against Jayden Daniels, they’ll look to keep Jackson contained in the pocket and limit his escape routes.
RB, Derrick Henry
One of the Ravens' standout offseason additions, Derrick Henry, has been an ideal fit, adding a powerful new dimension to their offense that’s been a challenge for defenses across the league. With Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat capability to pass or take off with his legs, the added presence of Henry forces opponents to constantly stay alert against both speed and power.
Henry’s ability to wear down defenses as the game progresses—thanks to his blend of size, strength, and speed—has made Baltimore’s run game even more punishing. This matchup will be the Steelers' toughest test against the run all season, making it crucial for Pittsburgh to jump to an early lead and disrupt Baltimore's ground-heavy approach.
TE, Mark Andrews
Since being drafted, he's been a consistent force for Baltimore, though he started this season a bit slow. Over the past few weeks, however, he's found his rhythm. Pittsburgh's linebackers will play a critical role in this matchup—spying on Lamar, stopping the run, and covering Andrews will be key to their game plan.
WR, Zay Flowers
Last year's first-round pick has proven to be both explosive and elusive. However, both Steelers' cornerbacks struggled significantly in their last outing, and they’ll absolutely need to step up. The Steelers caught a break with some overthrown passes by Jayden Daniels and a few costly drops, but they can’t count on that kind of luck going forward. The defense urgently needs the secondary to elevate its play throughout the rest of the season. Facing an offense as loaded as Baltimore’s presents a prime opportunity for this group to reset and prove themselves.
LT, Ronnie Stanley
The Ravens' cornerstone offensive lineman will be facing Nick Herbig and Preston Smith this week, as Alex Highsmith is sidelined for the next few weeks with an ankle injury. Herbig and Smith will need to step up to support the Steelers' pass rush alongside T.J. Watt, who will likely draw the bulk of the offense's blocking attention up front.
C, Tyler Linderbaum
One of the top centers in football will provide an exciting matchup against Cameron Heyward. After a standout performance last week, Heyward, along with Benton, will be pivotal in applying pressure to Lamar Jackson. With the Steelers increasing their blitz packages, expect to see a variety of stunts designed to confuse and disrupt the interior of Baltimore's offensive line. This battle will be key in generating consistent pressure and limiting Lamar’s time in the pocket.
DT, Nnamdi Madubuike
After a standout season with 13 sacks, he earned a major contract extension this offseason. Just last week, he sacked Joe Burrow three times. Zach Frazier, Seumalo, and McCormick will be key in efforts to contain Madubuike.
LB, Roquan Smith
Since entering the league, Roquan Smith has established himself as one of the premier inside linebackers. He is the type of player who excels at every aspect of the position. To limit his impact, the offensive line will need to effectively reach the second level and neutralize him in the run game. Meanwhile, Russell Wilson and Arthur Smith will need to execute a strong passing attack, using play action to get Smith to bite and forcing him to cover significant ground in coverage.
CB, Marlon Humphrey
Humphrey has been a key player for the Ravens over his 8 years in Baltimore, particularly known for his ability to force turnovers. His peanut punch is a constant threat, often leading to forced fumbles. With 4 interceptions this season, his ball skills remain sharp, and ball protection will be crucial for anyone facing him on the field.
In recent matchups, Humphrey has been tasked with covering George Pickens, though Pickens has had success against him. Expect the Ravens to implement a strategy to stop Pickens, likely with double coverage, forcing the Steelers to find alternative options when attacking deep.
S, Kyle Hamilton
The Ravens' Swiss Army knife can do it all on defense, lining up all over the field. Russell Wilson will have to keep his eyes on Hamilton at all times, as he's the true game-changer on that defense. Hamilton was injured last week against Cincinnati, and his status for Sunday remains uncertain.
K, Justin Tucker
Arguably the greatest kicker of all time has shown some signs of vulnerability this season, but he remains a threat. With the ability to make kicks from anywhere on the field, he still commands respect. The battle for field position will be crucial on Sunday, as both teams boast elite kickers.