Each week, our football staff at DK Pittsburgh Sports predicts the Steelers' result, along with sharing a few related thoughts.
For a full preview of this matchup with the Ravens, check my Kickoff.
Chris Halicke (7-5): I truly believe the Steelers are making significant progress. You may scoff at the opponents the Steelers have faced since the bye, but this team ran the ball effectively against a good Colts run defense and Kenny Pickett has been phenomenal at protecting the ball against secondaries that are strong against the pass. 128 straight passes without a pick is no joke. But, this Ravens' defense is a whole new challenge, and they'll do whatever they can to neutralize Najee Harris and the improved run game to make the rookie beat them. However, the Ravens are 1-5 without Lamar Jackson since 2020. They may still run the ball effectively. They still may shut down the run. But, I don't trust them to do enough to face an improved Steelers' defense that's determined to stop the run. This will be the moment Pickett proves the will to win is just as strong as other traits. I believe the Ravens will break Pickett's streak of passes without an interception, but I'm predicting the rookie leads the Steelers down the field for a game-winning field goal. Steelers, 16-15
Matt Williamson (6-6): This is going to be a very low scoring game. That is often the case over the years when these teams meet, but right now that is also the only formula Baltimore can play. Both teams will come out running the ball and, in a close game, should stick with their ground games -- even when it looks futile. If Jackson were playing, I would take Baltimore, but he isn't. So, I am taking the Steelers....even though I fear Justin Tucker to no end in such a game script. Steelers, 13-10
Ramon Foster (5-7): History says three points or less. I do think it's going to be low scoring, and there are a couple of guys who don't understand what this series is: Center and right guard. To me, if those two -- and I like Mason Cole, and James Daniels has picked it up as of late -- if they carry their lunch pail into this game and handle Baltimore's rush, I feel a lot better about this game. Those two really have me in a position of saying understand what you're getting yourself into. Steelers, 16-14
Dejan Kovacevic (4-8): Ample evidence supports that Pickett's been efficient against blitzes. But then, the Ravens do that better than most. Just as they defend the run better than most. John Harbaugh's never seen a running back he didn't want to prioritize for a shutdown. So if Pickett and/or Harris can find a way to tackle one or both challenges, I'm liking the Steelers' chances. But it's asking a lot. Probably too much. Ravens, 10-9
Let's have your picks in the comments!