Steelers vs. Ravens: 3 matchups to watch in week 5

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PITTSBURGH, PA – SEPTEMBER 30: Mason Rudolph #2 of the Pittsburgh Steelers lines up under center in the first half during the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Heinz Field on September 30, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

Mason Rudolph vs. Ravens pass defense

Last year, the Ravens spectacular running game was accompanied by a terrific defense. The same can’t be said in 2019. With a quarter of an NFL season under their belts, Baltimore ranks just 30th in passing yards surrendered per game this year (302.0).

After two great showings at the beginning for the season where they allowed just 13.5 points per game, things took a turn for the worse as they surrendered 33 and 40 points in back to back contests.

The Ravens have shown that their defense can be exposed through the air. However, the Steelers haven’t done much in the way of showing that they can rely on their passing attack. Though Mason Rudolph had a very good game against the Bengals, it’s unclear whether or not Randy Fichtner’s gimmicky offense will work against a team like Baltimore.

Mason Rudolph still has a long way to go to prove that he can be relied on to beat teams through the air. If the Steelers can get the passing game going against the Ravens this week, it will undoubtedly increase their odds of coming away victorious.

Rudolph has shown a lot of promise with his poise and confidence, but Sunday will be his biggest test so far.

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