Predicting the Steelers record against their divisional foes

Steelers vs. Ravens

Games played: Week 14, Week 17

In what should be a highly anticipated end-of-the-season pairings, the Steelers and Ravens have to wait until Week 14 to first play each other, but they see each other twice within a month’s time. These rivalry games have become some of the toughest for each of the two teams, both sides can expect a physical and defensive-based matchup whenever these games are played.

While the Ravens will be hoping to field a healthier team this season, starting with quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Steelers have famously done a good job of limiting Jackson when they have played each other. Unfortunately, that usually comes at a cost, as the running backs in Baltimore feed off the attention to Jackson. With Najee Harris also set to be a focal point of the offense, don’t be surprised to see running heavy games in both matchups.

The first meeting I have going in favor of the Steelers. Pittsburgh doesn’t have any notable games right before or after this matchup, meaning that they should be focused and ready to strike. The Ravens, meanwhile, will have just faced a talented Broncos team and will be preparing to face the Browns a week after. I think the schedule favors the Steelers and they win the first matchup.

Week 17 I have going to the Ravens. In what will very likely have significant playoff ramifications this late in the season, I think Baltimore pulls this one out. Neither game will be a walk in the park, but the Ravens, on paper, are the better team. They win when it really matters, keeping their playoff hopes alive and effectively ending the Steelers.