In Week 16 of the 2024 NFL season, the Pittsburgh Steelers will face their division rivals, the Baltimore Ravens, in a crucial AFC showdown. Currently sitting in first place in the AFC North, the Steelers have experienced minor setbacks that could jeopardize their playoff hopes, making this game even more important.
Injuries, particularly to key players like wide receiver George Pickens, will force head coach Mike Tomlin and his staff to adjust their strategy for the stretch run. To help mitigate these setbacks, implementing an aggressive rushing attack could be the key to securing a vital win against the Ravens.
Pickens, who was instrumental in the Steelers’ 18-16 win over Baltimore in Week 11—catching eight passes for 89 yards—will be unavailable for this matchup due to a hamstring injury. His absence leaves a significant void in Pittsburgh’s offense, particularly in the passing game.
Without Pickens, the Steelers will need to find a way to move the ball consistently and keep the Ravens’ defense on its heels. A heavy reliance on the rushing attack, led by running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, could be the perfect solution.
The Steelers must utilize rushing attack to compensate for offensive injuries
Earlier this season, Harris and Warren proved their worth in a 104-yard, 27-carry performance against the Ravens, helping the Steelers control the clock and dictate the pace. This dynamic duo can wear down opposing defenses, and Baltimore’s defense, though stout, can be vulnerable to a strong, physical running game.
The ability to dominate time of possession will be crucial, especially as Pittsburgh tries to compensate for losing its top receiving threat.
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Additionally, success on the ground will open up opportunities in the passing game, particularly with play-action. Tight end Pat Freiermuth and wide receiver Calvin Austin III, both frequent targets in play-action scenarios, could see more opportunities to make big plays. With the defense focused on stopping the run, Freiermuth could find soft spots in the middle of the field, while Austin could stretch the defense with his speed on deep routes.
In this critical AFC North battle, Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren will play a pivotal role in determining the outcome. If they can replicate their earlier success against the Ravens, it will significantly increase the Steelers’ chances of winning. It will also help secure better seeding in the AFC playoff race.
With the playoffs on the line, the pressure is on Pittsburgh’s dynamic running back duo to help lead the charge.