4 winners and 4 losers from Steelers 28-24 win vs. Ravens

Losers: The run defense

While there were some solid individual performances from the Steelers defensive unit, the run defense got whipped early and often in this game. A large part of this was due to the creative Ravens scheme, but it is still inexcusable how badly the Ravens ran over this unit. Despite entering the week as the second-best rushing defense, the Steelers allowed well over 200 yards to the Ravens on the ground.

This rushing onslaught started early and often, as Jackson had his way with the defense. Worse yet, when the Ravens handed the ball off, most of their runs were simple dives. Yet, the Steelers defense still allowed for the runners to gash them. Even after the second half when the defense stepped up a little, it was still apparent that they were struggling to stop the Ravens from running the ball.

While it ultimately didn’t cost the Steelers the game, it certainly was a disappointment to see the unit struggle as much as they did. Moving forward, this unit will have to tighten up and return to its earlier dominance. While not facing a mobile quarterback like Jackson will aid them in future weeks, they will meet Jackson again at Thanksgiving. They will certainly have some issues to figure out before that matchup.