3 eye-popping concerns as Steelers battle with Ravens for AFC North clout

The Steelers are coming off an exhilarating and nail-biting victory over the Washington Commanders. As they gear up for Week 11, they face a formidable divisional opponent: the Baltimore Ravens, who have shown they can keep pace with the Steelers this season.

Head Coach Mike Tomlin has made it clear how much he respects MVP-caliber QB Lamar Jackson. With the Steel City buzzing in anticipation of this crucial game, the team needs to tackle these three critical issues to secure a win.

Middle of the field a continued weak spot for Steelers D

Despite a commendable defensive effort against a formidable Commanders team, the Steelers defense continues to falter in the middle of the field. Time and again, QB Jayden Daniels capitalized on this weakness, extending plays and exposing the defense’s critical vulnerability. It’s clear that addressing this issue is essential for future success. 

TE Zach Ertz and WR Terry McLaurin effectively identified open areas on the field, taking advantage of opportunities to sustain long drives. Much of their success originated from run-pass option (RPO) plays that caught the defense off guard. To prevent another nerve-wracking performance, the Steelers must focus on closing the significant gaps in the middle of the field.

Defensive penalties stem from need for discipline

In an unexpected twist, Joey Porter Jr. faced his toughest test this season. The second-year cornerback incurred 3 significant penalties against the Commanders, and his performance seemed to falter as the game went on. This marks a pivotal moment for Steelers Nation, revealing concerns about JPJ’s ability to handle elite WR challenges.

Head Coach Mike Tomlin consistently emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset in adversity, yet the Steelers’ defense must address its ongoing struggle with penalties in the secondary. 

As the divisional rival Ravens arrive in the Steel City this weekend, it’s essential to eliminate penalties. This will be key to thwarting QB Lamar Jackson’s ability to sustain long drives and dominate the clock. With the diverse deep-threat options in the Raven’s offense, playing with discipline on all fronts is not just important, it’s vital for success.

Extending drives on offense to further balance the game

 Long, time-consuming drives on offense do more than just put points on the board; they are essential for the team’s success. They allow the defense to rest and re-strategize, which can be critical during games. The Steelers’ offense has done well to achieve a balance between running and passing, but further developing these drives is key.

By maintaining possession and preventing the opposing team from flipping the field, the Steelers can greatly enhance their chances of winning. Every effort to sustain drives directly contributes to overall team performance.

If the offense can effectively score on the majority of their drives, it highlights the impressive work the defense has done to maintain control throughout the season. With QB Russell Wilson developing stronger chemistry with his receiving corps, Steelers fans have every reason to feel cautiously optimistic as we head into the second half of the season. 

Consistently putting points on the board not only alleviates pressure on the defense but also addresses lingering doubts about the Arthur Smith-led Steelers’ ability to compete with the NFL’s elite, especially in the post-Ben Roethlisberger era. The challenges ahead will ultimately reveal whether the 2024 squad is truly a contender, poised to bring home the Lombardi Trophy once again.