3 ways Steelers can ground a high-flying Ravens team in Week 11

Acrisure Stadium is set to erupt with energy on Sunday as one of the most anticipated games of the year unfolds. The Baltimore Ravens, last season's AFC Championship contenders, are looking every bit like a Super Bowl-caliber team this year. However, the Steelers currently hold a narrow lead in the division—a lead that could shift dramatically this weekend.

For Pittsburgh, this game is more than just a rivalry clash; it's a chance to stop one of the hottest teams in the NFL and make a bold statement: the Steelers are legitimate contenders.

The Ravens, armed with a dangerous roster and explosive playmakers, present a daunting challenge. But if there’s one team that knows how to rise to the occasion against Baltimore, it’s the Steelers, who have a history of success in this storied rivalry.

To take a commanding two-game lead over the Ravens and solidify their position atop the division, Pittsburgh will need to execute these three key strategies.

Donte Jackson and Joey Porter Jr. need to step up 

The Steelers cornerbacks have had their struggles this season, and they'll face a tough challenge against Baltimore’s dynamic offense. The Ravens can attack through the air with a deep roster of playmakers and dominate on the ground with Derrick Henry leading the charge. To contain this high-powered unit, Pittsburgh’s corners must elevate their game.

Avoiding penalties, staying disciplined in their assignments, and embracing physicality in the run game will be essential. Tackling on the perimeter is especially critical, as Baltimore will undoubtedly test their willingness to tackle. This matchup demands that the Steelers corners rise to the occasion—not just in coverage, but by setting a tone with tough, smart football.

Steelers must execute operation 'Blitzburgh'

Last week, we saw an increase in blitzes against Jayden Daniels, and we expect more of the same—possibly even more intense—this week. The Ravens' offensive line isn't the strongest, and Pittsburgh needs to ensure Lamar Jackson can't escape the pocket while also making it more difficult for him to get the ball out.

The Steelers will need to mix up their coverages and pair that with pressure. By doing so, they can confuse Lamar with different looks, both from the blitz and the coverage behind it. It'll be a similar approach to last week's game plan, but I'm sure Mike Tomlin and his staff have some extra tricks up their sleeves for the Ravens.

Steelers need to air it out vs. a suspect Ravens pass defense

The Ravens' defense is one of the league’s worst against the pass, yet one of the toughest at stopping the run. This presents a challenge for the Steelers offense, which thrives on establishing the run.

To overcome this, Pittsburgh may need to shift its approach and lean more on the passing game than usual. If they want to come out on top, they'll need to put up points, and Arthur Smith must be willing to throw on early downs to stay ahead of the chains. With new WR Mike Williams and George Pickens, both strong deep-ball threats, the Steelers will need to capitalize on the Ravens' biggest weakness and stretch the field.