One of the greatest modern rivalries renews Sunday at 1 PM in Heinz Field. In a rivalry that is often unpredictable, both teams look to get their season back on track.
For the first time since 2007, the Steelers-Ravens rivalry will not feature Ben Roethlisberger or Joe Flacco at quarterback. The last time that happened? Week 17 in 2007 highlighted the playoff locked Steelers against the Ravens–Charlie Batch vs. Troy Smith.
This week both teams will feature their highest drafted quarterbacks since the selections of Roethlisberger and Flacco… Mason Rudolph and Lamar Jackson.
The 1-3 Steelers look to keep their season alive against the 2-2 Ravens. The winner of this game positions themselves at an opportunity for a first-place standing in the AFC North.
With the yinzers rocking and Ravens flocking into town, here are a quick three bold predictions for the Steelers against their divisional foes…
Steelers defense holds the Ravens to under 100 rushing yards, 13 points
The Steelers are equipped with the talent to make it happen, but will they bring the execution?
Last week Pittsburgh held the Bengals to under 200 yards of offense and only 3 points–which was set up by an early turnover by the Steelers deep in their territory. They did what they needed to do against a bad team: dominate and build confidence.
This will be a mighty feat; however, if they can eliminate the ground attack and trap Lamar Jackson in the pocket, it is not an unreasonable expectation. They will have to execute and put the pressure on Lamar Jackson’s arm to win this game.
James Washington records 160 yards receiving
Since the preseason, James Washington again finds himself off to a slow start putting up pedestrian numbers at best. It doesn’t help the Steelers are in a transition at QB, and the only issue is the QB is his former college teammate.
This week, however, the Ravens will surely be looking to eliminate the ground attack, wildcat, and small ball game that worked so well for the Steelers last week. This could lead to opportunities at big plays downfield.
This will solely depend on offensive execution, but if Mason Rudolph can work the field and take a few deep shots… lookout! It’s the Oklahoma State Cowboys connecting deep!
Mason Rudolph throws 5 touchdowns
Since we’re holding the #1 offense to 13 points and James Washington is reeling in deep bombs, Rudolph will shine. He was extremely efficient last week in the small ball game, and it’s only a matter of time before he lets it rip like Steelers Nation has been waiting for.
The Ravens made-over defense will be looking to make up for being gashed by the run game last week and stack the box to neutralize the wildcat and short pass attack. This will give room over the top to take shots on the Ravens secondary.
Throw a couple to Juju, one to Washington, Johnson, and Samuels… If the execution is there, it could be big! It would be the peak potential the Steelers have been eager to see.
The Steelers host the Ravens in a rivalry renewal on Sunday at 1 PM. For all of your latest news, analysis, and more, stay tuned to Stillcurtain.com. Be sure to also tune in to the Steel City Down South Podcast for a special Saturday edition as we preview with a special guest!
Here we go, Steelers!