In a tightly contested AFC North matchup, the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Baltimore Ravens 18-16, continuing their dominance over their rivals. The game showcased a stellar performance by the Steelers’ defense, which effectively stifled Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson and the league’s top-ranked offense.
Chris Boswell was pivotal in the Steelers’ victory, tying the franchise record by successfully kicking six field goals. His contributions were crucial, especially given the difficult circumstances that both teams faced on the field. Despite Jackson completing 16 of 33 passes for 207 yards, including a late touchdown to Zay Flowers, the Ravens struggled with penalties and turnovers throughout the game, ultimately leading to their downfall.
The Ravens’ offensive issues were exacerbated by multiple missed opportunities, including Jackson’s interception in the fourth quarter, which further hindered their efforts to secure a win. Jackson, who has historically struggled against the Steelers, now holds a disappointing 1-4 record as a starter against them.
Head coach John Harbaugh emphasized the impact of the team’s mistakes, stating that the penalties and turnovers set back the Ravens, forcing them to operate under difficult conditions. “We can’t have that in these types of games and this environment. It’s a division game,” Jackson added, acknowledging the need for improvement.
In contrast, the Steelers have proven to be an effective opponent for Jackson; this game marked the seventh win for Pittsburgh in their last eight meetings with Baltimore, with most games being decided by narrow margins.
Though the Ravens faced a setback in this game, it’s important to remember that overcoming obstacles is part of any team’s journey. The Ravens will likely utilize this experience to strengthen their resolve as they continue their season.
Overall, while the loss stings, the season still offers opportunities for the Ravens to build on their performance and rectify their mistakes moving forward. As they gear up for their next challenges, the focus will be on improving execution and capitalizing on scoring chances.