Lamar Jackson showcased his talents in what was arguably the most significant game of the season for the Baltimore Ravens. In a hard-fought battle against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jackson threw three touchdown passes, and Marlon Humphrey contributed a crucial pick-six, leading the Ravens to a 34-17 victory and solidifying their playoff berth.
This win puts both the Ravens and Steelers at 10-5, with Baltimore managing to level the playing field atop the AFC North. The victory was particularly sweet for the Ravens, as it marked only their second win in the last 10 games against their longtime rivals. Despite the stakes, Humphrey expressed satisfaction not only with the win but also with the team’s efforts throughout the season, acknowledging that although their performance was not flawless, it was effective in clinching the playoffs.
Jackson’s performance improved his record against Pittsburgh to 2-4 as a starter and marked the first time he faced the Steelers at home since 2020. He highlighted the importance of this win, reflecting on the ups and downs the team experienced throughout the season. Meanwhile, Derrick Henry had a standout game too, rushing for an impressive 162 yards.
In terms of game dynamics, the Ravens excelled in creating turnovers, recovering three fumbles and securing two significant takeaways that greatly contributed to their success. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the issues his team faced, particularly in controlling the run game, which redirected the momentum towards Baltimore.
The win allowed notable milestones for both quarterbacks, with Jackson setting a franchise record for touchdown passes in a season and surpassing 3,787 passing yards. This adds a silver lining to the Ravens’ season and highlights their resilience as they move forward.
As both teams prepare for their respective Christmas Day games, the Ravens can take this momentum into the playoffs, signaling a hopeful outlook for their postseason aspirations. The spirit of teamwork and determination displayed in this game bodes well for their future endeavors.