The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up to renew one of the most intense rivalries in the entire NFL.
The teams split their regular-season matchups, with Pittsburgh claiming victory at home early in the season before Baltimore won the rematch to deny the Steelers the AFC North crown.
Now, the stakes will be even higher when the two historic rivals meet in the Wild Card Round tomorrow evening.
The Ravens secured the division title with a decisive win over the Cleveland Browns last weekend, while the Steelers stumbled into the playoffs on the back of a four-game losing streak.
Now, the stage is set for another dramatic showdown, though freezing temperatures are expected to add an extra layer of challenge for both teams.
While some players embrace cold-weather football, Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson admitted he’s not one of them.
“I rather not be cold. But you said we got Derrick Henry so that’s a bonus,” Jackson said.
“I don’t believe nobody likes hitting in the cold. Not even defenders like hitting in the cold, especially with a 250-pound, all-muscle running back running downhill at you. I wouldn’t want to do it but it’s great for us.”
Henry has a history of dominating in harsh conditions, and his physicality will be a key storyline in the game.
The last time these two teams met, Henry punished the Steelers’ defense with 24 carries for 162 yards, averaging more than five yards per attempt.
His performance was even more impressive considering Pittsburgh fields one of the league’s top defensive units.
This season, Henry was a consistent force for Baltimore, amassing 1,921 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns on 325 carries.
The Steelers will be determined to contain him, knowing another dominant outing from Henry could spell disaster for their playoff hopes.
While Ravens fans sure are glad that Henry is on their team, there are some who are worried that Jackson will struggle in the cold conditions.
Some fans appreciate the honesty Jackson displayed by admitting that he doesn’t like playing in the cold. However, that admission has led to concern for some.
After all, Jackson’s struggles in the postseason have been very well-documented.
The Ravens enter the matchup as heavy 10-point favorites. However, we all know just how unforgiving playoff football can be. One simple mistake can and will cost you your season.
Between the cold and the extreme pressure that hovers over Jackson due to his postseason struggles, just how concerned should Ravens fans be that they could get upset by their hated rivals tomorrow???
