Derrick Henry, the Baltimore Ravens’ star running back, is poised to extend his trail of impressive performances since his offseason switch to the Ravens, and fans are eager to see what he can do against one of the league’s toughest defenses.
The Ravens are heading into this clash with some injury woes that could impact their game plan. Key players like Nelson Agholor and Rashod Bateman are both listed as questionable, dealing with a concussion and a foot injury, respectively. Jalyn Armour-Davis won’t be suiting up due to a hamstring issue, while Diontae Johnson is out for personal reasons. On a brighter note, T.J. Tampa is showing resilience, participating fully in practice despite an ankle issue, though Sanoussi Kane and Adisa Isaac were more limited due to hamstring concerns.
For the Steelers, George Pickens is out with a hamstring injury, and T.J. Watt missed practice with an ankle problem, though his presence on the field is usually felt regardless of setbacks. Also listed as out are Justin Fields with an abdominal injury and DeShon Elliott with a hamstring issue. Donte Jackson’s back leaves his status in question, while veterans like Cameron Heyward are taking time off to rest, and Larry Ogunjobi is nursing a groin.
Ravens fans will have plenty to look forward to, with Derrick Henry’s stats reading like a highlight reel—254 carries for 1,474 yards and 13 touchdowns, all averaging a formidable 5.8 yards per carry. Meanwhile, Lamar Jackson has been stellar under center with 3,580 passing yards, 34 touchdowns against just three interceptions, and a commendable QBR of 76. Zay Flowers has proven to be a reliable target, pulling in 66 receptions for 916 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 13.9 yards per catch. Defensively, Roquan Smith and Marlon Humphrey are making things happen, bolstering a Ravens defense that remains one of the league’s most vigilant.
For the Steelers, Russell Wilson has managed 1,912 passing yards with 13 touchdowns and three picks, though his QBR of 55.4 shows room for improvement. Najee Harris continues to grind on the ground with 891 yards and five touchdowns on 229 carries, averaging 3.9 yards a pop. George Pickens, even sidelined by injury, has made a significant impact in the receiving game with 850 yards and three scores. On defense, players like Patrick Queen and Donte Jackson are keeping offenses on edge with their performances.
As the Ravens and Steelers gear up for what promises to be a classic defensive duel, both teams are keenly aware of the playoff implications. The Steelers, perched atop the division with a 10-4 record, know the Ravens are hot on their heels at 9-5. Baltimore has their sights set on closing that gap, riding the waves of momentum provided by Jackson and Henry’s dynamic performances. Betting lines currently favor them by 6-7 points, and with the home crowd roaring, Baltimore’s defensive prowess looks to be as crucial as ever.
Earlier this season, the Steelers barely eked out a win over the Ravens with a narrow 18-16 victory, giving added fuel to Baltimore’s fire. This time, Ravens fans are hopeful for revenge, as their team’s offensive versatility is matched with a defense ready to meet Pittsburgh’s famed defensive unit head-on. With playoff seeding in the balance, this game isn’t just another matchup; it’s a blockbuster event that perfectly encapsulates one of the NFL’s fiercest rivalries.
