The Baltimore Ravens will face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night in a critical AFC North matchup, marking the final regular-season game of the 2025 NFL season. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as both teams compete for the division crown.
The Ravens are walking into this game with possibly the worst passing defense in record history. They’ve been worst in the league the past three weeks by giving up 285.3 yards/game in that span. The New York Jets have been the worst passing defense of all time. They permitted an alarming average of 314.3 passing yards during the same stretch. Even head coach John Harbaugh has expressed his extreme worry about this defensive weakness. Further aggravating his concerns are questions about his job security, which were exacerbated after he heard a chorus of boos during a home game earlier this season.
For Jackson, it’s all about his health as he prepares for his first full week of practice in two months. He’s been playing through several injuries, including concerns with his hamstring, knee, ankle, toe and back. The Ravens were unstoppable when Jackson was healthy. His gaudy 8-0 mark, 18 TDs to 1 INT over the last two weeks of regular season play in two different seasons speaks to this fact.
Defensive Struggles and Opportunities
Baltimore’s secondary has been historically bad this year. Or maybe it’s that they’ve somehow allowed a ridiculous 32 completions on passes of 20-plus yards downfield — worst in the league! This vulnerability to getting beat by deep shots should definitely be a concern going into this matchup against the Steelers’ offense. Especially the Steelers, who all year have boasted extraordinary depth on the defensive side of the ball. They have allowed an average of only 52 rushing yards per game over that same stretch.
On the defensive side, T.J. Watt, Pittsburgh’s most important defensive player, is slated to return this week. He can’t be blamed for that, as he has missed the last three games after partially puncturing his lung. His presence could solidify an already stout defense that has completely shut down opposing offenses this year.
“Baltimore’s coming in. Winner takes all. I have a lot of respect for those guys over there, but let’s win it at home.” – Cameron Heyward
In recent performances, quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw for a season-high 284 yards against the Ravens, highlighting potential gaps in their pass coverage. Derrick Harmon had a terrific return from injury. He’s been key to the Steelers’ defensive turnaround, limiting Detroit rookie Jahmyr Gibbs to two yards on seven runs in Pittsburgh’s last game.
Coaching and Leadership Under Pressure
John Harbaugh, the head coach, is under tremendous pressure as he deals with a media circus surrounding speculation about his job. He signed a three-year extension last offseason, keeping him around through 2028. Growing discontent from fans over recent seasons has led to speculation about his job security.
“There’s always pressure, but I think it was [tennis hall of famer] Billie Jean King who said that pressure is a privilege,” – John Harbaugh
Even with these obstacles, the players and coaches alike reiterate how crucial it is to stay focused and composed when it’s do-or-die time. Safety Kyle Hamilton indicated that line about playing smart and not being scared to play scared, which might be the issue right now.
“I think we need to play smart but not play timid. I think there’s a fine line there.” – Kyle Hamilton
Players such as Marlon Humphrey were adamant in their defense of Harbaugh, attributing his strong leadership skills to being key in chaotic periods.
“I love Coach Harbaugh as a coach, and I also love him as a man as far as what he’s been able to preach to me when he’s not even talking about football.” – Marlon Humphrey
The Road Ahead
With both teams facing a win-or-go-home situation, both squads know that the winner will be the one heading to the playoffs. The Ravens need to make the most of Lamar Jackson’s return to full health and do everything in their power to help their defense stop bleeding.
Patrick Queen explained that the main target of blame often ends up being coaching when the weight of a game’s result should rest on players.
“I think a lot of the criticism is kind of unworthy, because a lot of times it’s on the players’ shoulders.” – Patrick Queen
The Steelers seek to continue to rely on the strength of their defense, capitalizing on the mistakes of the Ravens. Both teams are desperate for the win as this game looms large in the division race. Here’s hoping for another thrilling clash under the lights, fans!
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