5 Steelers who need to thrive in Week 11 vs. Ravens

Most teams would still be celebrating a tough road victory over a playoff-caliber team like the Commanders, but this time is different. The Steelers will be at home in Week 11, but they have to quickly turn their attention to the incoming Ravens. Both teams come into this game with hopes of securing a division lead with a win. It is Pittsburgh's toughest game of their season yet.

Baltimore presents plenty of tough challenges, especially when it comes to their offensive firepower. If the Steeler's defense continues to deflate against tough competition on the other side of the ball, then it could set them up for failure when the playoffs roll around.

Russell Wilson and company will be relied on to potentially bail out a Pittsburgh defense that has shown signs of struggle recently. These five players need to step up in a pivotal Week 11 contest.

T.J. Watt, EDGE

With Alex Highsmith out, the pressure on T.J. Watt continues to build. He is still producing a Defensive Player of the Year performance, but his sack numbers have dipped. If he can find opportunities to get after Lamar Jackson and force him into bad situations, then the Steelers would welcome that. Containing Jackson and getting routine pressure on him is something Pittsburgh needs to apply.

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Najee Harris, RB

One of the best ways to keep a quality offense off the field is by keeping your offense on the grass. Russell Wilson is playing well, but the black and gold need a better-rushing attack than they had against Washington in Week 10. If Najee Harris can have a monster day, then that will help slow the game down for their defense and give them a great opportunity to win this football game.

Payton Wilson, LB

Everyone is going to pay close attention to Patrick Queen as he faces his former team for the first time. Don't discount the potential impact that Payton Wilson could have on this game. He has seen his numbers drop in terms of snaps over the past few weeks, but that could change. Wilson is the fastest linebacker the Steelers employ, and he could be tasked with chasing down Jackson.

Mike Williams, WR

It was great to see Mike Williams get some game action last week after his trade to the Steelers. He was able to secure a tough touchdown catch. His numbers could start to increase this week after having a full routine leading up to this game. Calvin Austin III's availability for this matchup will also be a big factor when it comes to Williams's snap count. He should have a bigger role in Week 11.

Joey Porter Jr., CB

He is coming off one of his worst performances as a pro, but Joey Porter Jr. has a great chance to turn things around this week. Baltimore has plenty of quality receivers, but they don't have a top guy in certain aspects. The Steeler's defense will be doing their best to shut down the run, so their secondary will be put on an island. It will be up to Porter and his fellow secondary to step up.