When the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens clash on the football field, it’s more than just a game—it’s a battle defined by grit, rivalry, and a relentless pursuit of victory. These meetings are marked by defensive schemes, clutch performances, and game-changing plays. In this comprehensive analysis, we break down the most recent Steelers vs. Ravens matchup, focusing on the player stats that shaped the game’s narrative and legacy.
Understanding the Rivalry: Steelers vs. Ravens
Few NFL matchups produce the intensity witnessed when the Steelers and Ravens collide. These two franchises, hailing from AFC North, have cultivated a heavyweight rivalry since the late 1990s.
“Steelers-Ravens games are football in its purest form: violent, passionate, and fiercely competitive,” said former safety Ed Reed in a 2022 interview.
The rivalry’s reputation is built on legendary defensive units, physicality, and games that are often decided by only a few points. Entering this latest matchup, both squads were vying for playoff positioning, raising the stakes for every snap.
Key Offensive Player Stats: Quarterbacks Set the Tone
The quarterbacks are always under the spotlight, and this contest was no exception. Let’s look at how each signal-caller performed under pressure.
| Player | Comp/Att | Yards | TD | INT | QBR | Rush Yards |
|———————|———-|——-|—-|—–|——-|————|
| Kenny Pickett (PIT) | 21/34 | 245 | 2 | 1 | 91.2 | 14 |
| Lamar Jackson (BAL) | 17/28 | 198 | 1 | 0 | 87.6 | 72 |
Kenny Pickett’s composure in the pocket led to a pair of clutch touchdowns, while Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat capability was evident. Jackson led all quarterbacks in rushing yards, keeping the Ravens in striking distance.
Wide Receiver Contributions
Wideouts for both teams contributed key plays at critical moments. Diontae Johnson and Zay Flowers each posted strong numbers:
| Receiver | Targets | Receptions | Yards | TD |
|——————–|———|————|——-|—–|
| Diontae Johnson (PIT) | 11 | 8 | 108 | 1 |
| Zay Flowers (BAL) | 9 | 6 | 84 | 0 |
These performances underscored the impact of reliable hands in tight coverage.
Running Backs: Ground Game Momentum
Both teams are known for physical rushing attacks. Let’s break down the production:
| Running Back | Carries | Yards | Avg | TD | Longest Run |
|————————|———|——-|—–|————|————-|
| Najee Harris (PIT) | 19 | 71 | 3.7 | 1 | 14 |
| Gus Edwards (BAL) | 16 | 59 | 3.6 | 1 | 10 |
| Jaylen Warren (PIT) | 8 | 41 | 5.1 | 0 | 20 |
“Both Najee Harris and Gus Edwards delivered the kind of tough, inside running that defines Steelers-Ravens battles,” commented ESPN’s Field Yates postgame.
While neither team found explosive gains on the ground, steady carries helped control the clock and set up play-action opportunities.
Defensive and Special Teams Standouts
Defensive Playmakers
In rivalry games, defense often dictates the tone. T.J. Watt (PIT) and Roquan Smith (BAL) shined as tone-setters for their respective squads.
| Player | Tackles | Sacks | INT | QB Hits | Forced Fum. |
|———————-|———|——-|—–|———|————-|
| T.J. Watt (PIT) | 7 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 1 |
| Roquan Smith (BAL) | 11 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Patrick Queen (BAL) | 9 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
Watt’s ability to create pressure and force mistakes was pivotal, while Smith anchored a Baltimore defense that never relented.
Special Teams Impact
Field position proved critical, with both punters and kickers delivering in high-pressure moments.
| Player | FG Made | FG Att. | Punts | AVG Punt Yds |
|————————|———|———|——-|————–|
| Chris Boswell (PIT) | 2 | 2 | — | — |
| Justin Tucker (BAL) | 1 | 2 | — | — |
| Pressley Harvin III (PIT) | — | — | 6 | 48.5 |
| Jordan Stout (BAL) | — | — | 5 | 49.2 |
Chris Boswell was perfect on field goals, while Justin Tucker’s rare miss proved costly in the final scoreline.
Turning Points: Game-Changing Plays
Every Steelers vs. Ravens encounter is defined by moments that shift momentum. In this matchup, a fourth-quarter red zone interception by Minkah Fitzpatrick helped the Steelers preserve their narrow lead. Additionally, a late-game sack by T.J. Watt forced a Ravens punt, sealing Pittsburgh’s victory.
Statistical Storylines and Historic Context
The latest clash added another thrilling chapter to this storied rivalry. Consider the following:
- The average point differential in the last 10 Steelers vs. Ravens games is just 4.5 points.
- Both teams have the top two all-time win percentages in the AFC North since 2000.
“No two teams know each other better, and no victories are more hard-earned,” said NFL Network’s Steve Smith Sr.
Games like these are often referenced in postseason narratives and contribute to AFC North lore.
Player Comparison Table: Highlighting the Match’s Key Contributors
| Category | Steelers Top Performer | Stats | Ravens Top Performer | Stats |
|—————–|—————————–|————————|—————————–|———————–|
| Passing | Kenny Pickett | 245 yds, 2 TDs | Lamar Jackson | 198 yds, 1 TD |
| Receiving | Diontae Johnson | 108 yds, 1 TD | Zay Flowers | 84 yds |
| Rushing | Najee Harris | 71 yds, 1 TD | Gus Edwards | 59 yds, 1 TD |
| Defense | T.J. Watt | 2 sacks, 1 FF | Roquan Smith | 11 tackles, 1 sack |
| Special Teams | Chris Boswell | 2/2 FG | Jordan Stout | 5 punts, 49.2 avg |

Concluding Summary
In summary, the Steelers and Ravens once again delivered a gridiron classic. Critical performances by Kenny Pickett and Diontae Johnson made the difference, while defensive stalwarts like T.J. Watt and Roquan Smith ensured the intensity never faded. With playoff implications looming, every stat and every snap carried weight—reminding fans and analysts why this is considered one of the fiercest rivalries in the NFL.
FAQs
1. Who was the top performer for the Steelers in this match?
Kenny Pickett delivered a standout performance with 245 passing yards and two touchdowns, leading the Steelers’ offensive charge.
2. How did Lamar Jackson contribute for the Ravens?
Lamar Jackson showcased his dual-threat ability with nearly 200 passing yards, one touchdown, and 72 rushing yards, keeping the Ravens in contention.
3. Which defensive player made the biggest impact?
T.J. Watt’s two sacks and forced fumble were decisive momentum changers for the Steelers, while Roquan Smith led the Ravens in tackles and recorded a crucial sack.
4. Were there any special teams highlights?
Chris Boswell was perfect on field goals for the Steelers, and Jordan Stout’s punting helped control field position for the Ravens throughout the game.
5. What’s unique about the Steelers vs. Ravens rivalry statistically?
Over their last ten meetings, the point differential averages less than five, underscoring the balanced and competitive nature of this long-running AFC North rivalry.

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