Pittsburgh Steelers Meet The Opponent: Baltimore Ravens

Interview

Every week, I’ll grab an expert from the opposing side and ask them a few questions pertaining to the match-up and the team they cover. To really get a grasp of the game, it’s always beneficial to grab information from those who know the team best while looking at things different perspective.

This week, I had the privilege of interviewing Richard Bradshaw, site expert for the Ravens FanSided page, Ebony Bird. Richard also covers the NFL at NFL Analysis Network, while providing phenomenal draft coverage over at Breaking Football. Follow Mr. Bradshaw on Twitter @RichieBradz36.

DD: The Ravens find themselves at 2-1 on the year, and we’ve seen a lot of this team, both good and bad. After three weeks, what’s your general feeling for this Ravens team in 2018?

RB: This is a Ravens offense that we haven’t seen before. The passing game is clicking and the receivers are making plays. Joe Flacco looks rejuvenated and is playing at peak level. The running game has been extremely frustrating and is holding the offense back from elite status. However, the Ravens are the first team in NFL history to start the season 12/12 on touchdowns in the red-zone.

Defensively, this is what we should’ve expected to see. No, it’s no 2000 Ravens defense, but the players are gelling well and everyone is doing their job. The pass rush seems inconsistent, but the play of Marlon Humphrey is certainly encouraging. A healthy C.J. Mosley will take this defense back to the top. Don’t be shocked if the Ravens cruise to 9–10 wins and find a playoff spot in a weak AFC conference.

DD: The Steelers and Ravens head into what appears to be another big match-up early in the season. From a Baltimore perspective, how is this game different from any normal contest? 

RB: The Ravens absolutely need to find a way to get past Pittsburgh if they want to see the postseason. The Steelers are the big brother, constantly standing in the hallway telling you there’s a toll in the hall. It’s high time the younger brother, in this case Baltimore, shoves their big brother down the stairs. Baltimore wants to be taken seriously? Then you need to beat Pittsburgh IN Pittsburgh on SNF. There’s no bigger stage to stand out than here

DD: This Steelers offense appears to have found a decent rhythm, scoring 30+ points in the last two games. What do you like about the Ravens defense to slow these guys down?

RB: The Ravens defensive front can slow down an opposing team’s run game, but they can’t completely shut them down. The Ravens have always had Antonio Brown’s number (for the most part) and have found ways to pressure Ben Roethlisberger in the pocket. The Ravens defense needs to bring an edge on Sunday night, but more than anything they have to clamp down when it matters the most.

DD: It’s another AFC North football game. People within the division know these are the types of games you bring your hard hat and lunch pail to. What match-ups to you will decide this game?

RB: Marlon Humphrey vs Antonio Brown, Brandon Williams vs David DeCastro and Ronnie Stanley vs T.J. Watt

DD: If the Ravens can do (fill in the blank), they will win the game.

RB: If the Ravens can stop the Steelers run game, they will win the game.

Sunday night presents another opportunity for either of these ball clubs to assert themselves as division favorites. This contest will set the precedent for the next meeting in Baltimore on November 4th, a game that will carry not only heavy division amplifications, but also in the fight for the playoffs as well. It’s only week four, but these Steelers/Ravens games always provide a playoff atmosphere.