When everyone was talking about how difficult the Steeler's second half of their season was, they weren't lying. They just had a great comeback victory against the Commanders, but they will now host the Baltimore Ravens in Week 11 for the top spot in the AFC North division. Pittsburgh is going to have to turn things around, especially on defense if they want a chance at winning this game.
Russell Wilson and the Steeler's offense has been on fire since he took over as their starter. They have been able to cash in their opportunities for the most part, but they have been most effective by bailing out their defense. They will go up against one of the worst pass-defending defenses in the NFL versus Baltimore, so the black and gold offense should be able to move the ball effectively.
One of the major concerns heading into this game is the level of play Lamar Jackson is currently producing. Not only is he playing great, but the Ravens have a great running back to back him up with Derrick Henry.
That is a deadly duo who can run on any quality defense. It seems like every week we talk about how this could be the Steelers defenses largest test of the season, but it is true this time around.
Steelers defense is going to struggle against a top ranked Ravens offense
History should make Steelers fans confident heading into this game. Jackson has not been successful against the black and gold throughout his career for one reason or another. They have found different ways to slow Raven's offenses down during their previous meetings which have thrown Jackson's performances into a tailspin. They will need to use those same tactics to win.
Wilson and the Steelers offense should be able to find success on offense. They will have to keep up their current production and likely win this football game for Pittsburgh. If they can get the running game going throughout the contest, then the Steeler's chances of winning should skyrocket. Wilson needs to have an effective day through the air with how poor Baltimore defends against it.
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Circling back to the Steeler's defense, it could be an ugly day at the office. They struggled against the Commanders for a while, which put them in a 24-14 hole in the third quarter. Luckily, their offense bailed them out, but this has been a continued trend for Pittsburgh's defense. They have been giving up a ton of yardage through the air, and penalties are stacking up.
If the black and gold can stop the Raven's run game and pressure Jackson, then they will follow their previous recipe of beating their rival. It is going to be difficult to accomplish that task with Henry playing at the elite level that he is. There are plenty of trends going against the Steeler's defense, and they might be the main talking point if the black and gold can't escape this game victorious.