As the Baltimore Ravens prepare to face their fierce division rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, much of the spotlight focuses on their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. Despite being one of the frontrunners for the MVP award this season, Jackson has a mixed history against the Steelers, holding a record of 1-3 against them. The 2019 season marks his sole victory in this heated rivalry, a reminder of the daunting challenge that lies ahead.
Jackson's performances against Pittsburgh have been a roller-coaster ride, characterized by four touchdowns overshadowed by seven interceptions. The Steelers’ staunch defense, which ranks second in the NFL for the fewest points allowed this season, has often been a formidable foe for Jackson. Reinforcing this challenge are Pittsburgh's ranks close to the top in rushing defense and red zone efficiency, critical areas where they tend to stifle their opponents.
Changing Dynamics
The dynamics of this matchup bear added intrigue with the inclusion of former Ravens players DeShon Elliott and Patrick Queen now donning Pittsburgh colors. Queen, reflecting on his move, shared, "I didn’t get the offer back, and it is definitely kind of upsetting being there for four years and the bond that you grow with your teammates and stuff. The first few months, you definitely go through those feelings. Now after playing games, you just go by and just want to win games. You want to win with your teammates, your new teammates; you want to bond with those guys.”
For Jackson, the evolution of teams across seasons is nothing new. "There were different guys last year, and it's a different unit this year, but it's always the same goal; we want to win. We want to be the ones that come out victorious, and that's going to be the goal going into this game," he asserted, underscoring the perennial objective of victory regardless of roster changes.
The Quest for Victory
The Ravens' offensive arsenal has seen enhancements this season, with Derrick Henry sharing the backfield with Jackson. His presence is expected to bolster Baltimore's rushing attack, presenting a multifaceted threat to Pittsburgh's defense. Yet, the challenge remains significant. As Jackson reflectively noted, "I don't know what it is, man. Last year, we [were] supposed to [beat] them, but things just didn't go our way; the football gods weren't on our side. But it's a whole other year, it's a new year, [and] I'm looking forward to the game."
Such games, steeped in tradition and intensity, are often decided by the finest of margins. The Ravens have demonstrated resilience and potential throughout the season, reflected in Jackson's MVP candidacy. However, games against the Steelers demand flawless execution and mental fortitude, particularly when passing against a defense that excels at forcing turnovers.
Jackson's growth as a quarterback, marked by his increasing poise and versatility, will be tested under the weight of past performances and the aspirations of his team. This game could provide a vital proving ground both for Baltimore’s ambitions and Jackson’s MVP credentials. As always, the clash promises not just a contest of skill and strategy but a reflection of enduring rivalries and emerging narratives in the NFL.
While the records and past encounters set the stage, every new game offers a blank slate where strategies unfold anew. The Steelers have clinched victories against formidable opponents, driven by their well-oiled defensive machine. Yet, the Ravens' blend of skillful offense and scintillating playmaking holds the promise of redefining outcomes.
As both teams take the field, every snap, throw, and tackle will echo the storied rivalry, where previous victories and defeats blend into the tapestry of a new contest. For Baltimore and Pittsburgh, it's more than just a game; it's the latest chapter in a narrative of grit, strategy, and the unyielding quest for supremacy in the NFL.