The Steelers wrapped up their regular season with another loss, this time against the Bengals in the season finale—highlighting the critical improvements needed as they gear up for their Wild Card matchup against the Ravens today.
With Mike Tomlin's team in Baltimore for a win-or-go-home AFC North playoff showdown, there is a sense of panic and frustration that must be addressed before kickoff. Divisional games that extend into the postseason can be unexpectedly exciting. Here are five intense matchups that are sure to be popcorn-worthy.
Mark Andrews vs. Steelers' Defense
Ravens tight end Mark Andrews is a leader both on the field and in the locker room, providing a reliable target for QB Lamar Jackson. The Steelers have had to adapt to Andrew’s presence over the years, as he consistently poses a significant challenge in their defensive game plans. Andrews finished the regular season with 11 touchdowns and the third most receiving yards on the Ravens offense.
Unfortunately for Steelers fans, the Ravens TE is trending up at the worst time.
Though his stats this season were not always splash-worthy, Andrews does fall into the category of clutch-worthy just when you think you have the Ravens on their heels. The seven-year veteran shares the field with Isaiah Likely, who has also emerged as a key target for Jackson. This TE double punch is one that head coach Mike Tomlin must focus on containing, particularly in the middle of the field and within the red zone.
When it comes to the Steelers defense, LB Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson will likely be assigned to face off against the daunting TE duo. Queen is once again in a critical position to deliver an exceptional performance as he confronts his former team for the third time, with the stakes at an all-time high. In their first matchup, the former Ravens LB, Queen was successful against the TE, Likely, creating a game-changing moment with a strip fumble that shifted momentum in favor of the Steelers.
George Pickens vs. Nate Wiggins and Kyle Hamilton
Perhaps the spotlight matchup for the Steelers taking on the Ravens is WR George Pickens versus cornerback Nate Wiggins and safety Kyle Hamilton. Pickens is in urgent need of a strong performance this weekend, as he recorded three drops and had zero receiving yards in last week’s game against the Bengals.
While he was sidelined due to injury in their last encounter, he showcased his potential in their first matchup, posting eight receptions for 89 yards against the Ravens' secondary. He needs to match this performance and then some for the Steelers today.
The time to strengthen the connection between Pickens and QB Russell Wilson is now. If the Steelers want any chance of keeping up with the Ravens on Saturday night, this is essential. For Nate Wiggins and Kyle Hamilton, the most effective way to disrupt Pickens’ success is to rattle him and frustrate him, which could lead to a disconnect with Wilson. Additionally, Hamilton has recently been a ball-hawk and play disruptor for his Ravens flock.
Kyle Van Noy vs. Steelers' offensive line
Veteran LB Kyle Van Noy is proving to be a significant defensive threat that the Steelers’ offensive line must contend with. He recorded 12.5 sacks during the regular season and forced two fumbles. The Pittsburgh squad will need to have all hands on deck. Van Noy’s ability to disrupt the opposing team’s game flow and his impressive closing speed are crucial factors to keep an eye on.
Players on the Steelers O-line tasked with containing Van Noy are Broderick Jones and Mason McCormick (if the latter is healthy enough to go today). Although this pair struggled to prevent Van Noy from disrupting Wilson’s success, resulting in a strip sack for the QB, they have another opportunity to rise to the occasion.
This game serves as a “prove-it” moment for the Steelers O-line, as they aim to keep their QB safe and allow enough time for plays to develop. Steelers fans can expect Jones to make a significant impact this time around against the veteran Van Noy.
Justin Fields package vs. Ravens' defense
Head coach Mike Tomlin has not dismissed the possibility of using the switchblade QB Justin Fields against the Ravens. Although Fields has spent more time on the sideline than on the field this season, there’s a strong feeling that Tomlin may need to strategically include the young QB in Saturday night’s game plan. The Ravens have publicly stated that they are preparing for both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields this weekend.
Fields has found success in the red zone particularly when he is given the opportunity. This could be a significant advantage against the Ravens' defense which ranks among the best in the league across all categories. The key question is whether we will see Fields play for more than just a few plays, as his presence could alter the course of this matchup. Keeping Baltimore's defense off balance is crucial for success.
Mike Tomlin vs. John Harbaugh
Sometimes the most intriguing matchups are not always found on the field, but rather on the opposing sidelines. Once again juggernaut head coaches Mike Tomlin and John Harbaugh are set to face off in the playoffs, with everything on the line for their respective teams.
Tomlin is under pressure, as he could be on the hot seat if he doesn’t succeed this weekend. He currently has a playoff record of 8-10 since joining the Steelers, with half of those losses coming in the Wild Card round which raises eyebrows for many Steelers fans.
John Harbaugh has a postseason record of 12-10 since becoming the head coach of the Ravens. With a fully stacked team that has been performing well in recent weeks, the Ravens present a clear challenge for Steelers fans.
However, it’s important to remember that the Steelers, coming off four consecutive losses, have something to prove as underdogs, while the Ravens do not face the same pressure. Steelers fans, stay calm and trust the process; we are ready to rise up and take on Baltimore!