The Pittsburgh Steelers have navigated a tumultuous season but remain atop the AFC North, demonstrating their ability to control their own fate. A significant factor in their success can be attributed to the misfortunes faced by the Baltimore Ravens, particularly in 2025. Star quarterback Lamar Jackson’s absence due to injury at a critical stage of the season contributed to the Ravens’ tough start, as they stumbled to a 1-5 record. Anticipation grew that once the team regained full health, they would rebound, and they indeed displayed competitive spirit. However, the Steelers gained an advantage by defeating the Ravens in Week 14, cementing their position in the division.
The season for Baltimore has been nothing short of peculiar, marred by injuries, including the absence of one of their top defensive players throughout. This lack of clarity regarding the team’s struggles has created uncertainty among fans. The communication disconnect between Jackson and Head Coach John Harbaugh has drawn recent scrutiny. Pundit Nick Wright highlighted this baffling dynamic, questioning whether Jackson and Harbaugh have an effective rapport. Instances where Harbaugh’s timelines for Jackson’s return did not align with the quarterback’s actual availability have fueled doubts. Jackson missed time with a hamstring injury earlier in the season, and despite Harbaugh’s optimism, he was not able to return as expected.
Wright further noted that Jackson has often dealt with various injuries throughout his career, leading to inconsistent practice participation. This pattern has coincided with what many perceive as a decline in Jackson’s performance. The quarterback’s recent practice absences seem to indicate a deeper discontent, and Wright suggested that Jackson might be “checked out” of the ongoing situation, which would be alarming for Steelers fans given the team’s close competition in the AFC North.
The Steelers benefit significantly if Jackson’s frustrations continue, especially as they prepare for a crucial matchup against the Ravens in Week 18. Depending on the outcomes leading up to that game, it could either finalize the division for Pittsburgh or turn into a decisive playoff decider. Should Baltimore fail to secure a playoff spot, it raises questions about Harbaugh’s future, particularly if tensions between him and Jackson persist.
As speculation abounds regarding potential changes within the Ravens organization heading into the 2026 offseason, one thing remains certain: the Steelers are poised to capitalize on the challenges their rivals are facing. The juxtaposition of Pittsburgh’s stabilizing season against Baltimore’s erratic trajectory leaves fans eager to see how this rivalry unfolds down the stretch.