NFL · 1 year ago

How the Steelers Can Beat the Ravens: 5 Keys to Victory in Week 18

Zack Cook

Host · Writer

Steelers Pass Rush Forces Huntley to Make Mistakes
The Pittsburgh Steelers pass rush with Alex Highsmith and T.J. Watt has been amongst the NFL's best in 2023. With Lamar Jackson resting in Week 18, Watt and Highsmith will need to pressure Tyler Huntley into forcing throws and turning the ball over. These rivalry games between the Steelers and Ravens are often won in the trenches, meaning Watt and Highsmith need to be amongst the most impactful players on the field this Saturday.
Mason Rudolph Controls the Game
Mason Rudolph has started the last two games for the Pittsburgh Steelers at quarterback and looked impressive. His numbers won't jump off the page at you, but he's managed games well and given the team a chance to win. In the Steelers regular-season finale against the Baltimore Ravens, Rudolph will need to continue having a similar impact in order to keep Pittsburgh's playoff hopes alive.
Running Backs Help Control Clock
A big reason that the Pittsburgh Steelers are still alive for a playoff spot in Week 18 against the Ravens is because of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren. This running back duo has been sensational over the last two weeks, which has helped the Steelers control the clock and keep their defense off the field. These two backs each bring a different style of running to the table, which will be essential in giving Pittsburgh a chance on Saturday.
Joey Porter Jr. Limits Zay Flowers
Two explosive rookies on both sides of the football will have a chance to impact the Steelers and Ravens Week 18 clash. Joey Porter Jr. has continued to see an elevated role as the season has progressed, while Zay Flowers has been dynamic for the Ravens. If the Steelers hope to limit the Ravens on offense, Porter Jr. will be tasked with shutting down Flowers.
George Pickens Stretches the Field
It's no secret the impact that George Pickens has had on the Pittsburgh Steelers over the last two games with Mason Rudolph at quarterback. Pickens has registered eleven catches for 326 yards and a pair of touchdowns over that span. Having a player like Pickens be able to stretch the field is important in how the Steelers want this offense to function. If the Steelers want to beat the Ravens on the road, they'll need Pickens to have another impactful showing.
Steelers Pass Rush Forces Huntley to Make Mistakes
The Pittsburgh Steelers pass rush with Alex Highsmith and T.J. Watt has been amongst the NFL's best in 2023. With Lamar Jackson resting in Week 18, Watt and Highsmith will need to pressure Tyler Huntley into forcing throws and turning the ball over. These rivalry games between the Steelers and Ravens are often won in the trenches, meaning Watt and Highsmith need to be amongst the most impactful players on the field this Saturday.
Mason Rudolph Controls the Game
Mason Rudolph has started the last two games for the Pittsburgh Steelers at quarterback and looked impressive. His numbers won't jump off the page at you, but he's managed games well and given the team a chance to win. In the Steelers regular-season finale against the Baltimore Ravens, Rudolph will need to continue having a similar impact in order to keep Pittsburgh's playoff hopes alive.