Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has shown considerable respect for Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, referring to him as “Mr. Jackson” before their recent match-up. This acknowledgment comes from a coach who has led his team to a Super Bowl victory, highlighting Jackson’s status as a two-time NFL MVP.
In a hard-fought game last Sunday, the Steelers managed to edge out the Ravens with a score of 18-16. This victory deepens the Steelers’ hold on the AFC North while leaving Jackson with a disappointing 1-4 record against their fierce rivals. Reflecting on the challenges he faced, Jackson remarked, “I can’t call it. I can’t call it,” indicating his frustration with the continued difficulties his team faces against Pittsburgh.
Jackson’s performance included 16 completions on 33 attempts for 207 yards, along with one touchdown and one interception. In the closing moments of the game, he had an opportunity to tie the score with a two-point conversion, but was thwarted by the Steelers’ defense. “They just stopped it,” Jackson acknowledged.
Despite Jackson’s stellar reputation, the numbers against the Steelers tell a different story: he has thrown eight interceptions and only five touchdowns in his five games against them. In a typical Tomlin maneuver, the Steelers secured their win even while averaging two yards less per play than the Ravens. Their victory was largely due to a significant plus-three turnover margin and dominating time of possession, holding the ball for over 36 minutes.
Jackson noted the importance of ball possession and minimizing turnovers in these tightly contested matchups: “It’s the (team) who has more possession of the ball and keeping it safe.”
The Ravens had their share of penalties, leading the league with a total of 92 and committing 12 for 80 yards against the Steelers. Jackson pointed to this issue, emphasizing the need for better discipline, while head coach John Harbaugh echoed those sentiments, noting that penalties consistently put the Ravens in difficult down-and-distance situations.
On the special teams front, kicker Chris Boswell was a standout for the Steelers, successfully making six field goals. Meanwhile, Ravens kicker Justin Tucker faced challenges, missing two kicks early in the game but still managing a 54-yard field goal later.
Harbaugh expressed confidence in Tucker’s abilities, emphasizing that improving consistency in his kicks is vital moving forward.
In summary, while the Steelers celebrate another victory over their rivals, there remain areas for concern for the Ravens. With adjustments in discipline and execution, Baltimore can harness their explosive offensive potential in future games, holding promise for a strong comeback in the season.