Following initial previews of the high-stakes AFC North finale, Lamar Jackson is confirmed to start for the Ravens despite a back contusion. The Steelers, hosting Sunday's 8:20 PM EST clash at Acrisure Stadium, continue to navigate key absences like suspended WR DK Metcalf and injured TE Darnell Washington, while finalizing defensive tweaks.
As covered earlier, the Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7) host the Baltimore Ravens (8-8) in a winner-take-all Week 18 matchup on January 4, 2026, at Acrisure Stadium. A win clinches the division and playoffs for Pittsburgh; a loss ends their season.
Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith addressed the wide receivers' Week 17 struggles (three catches, 25 yards) without Metcalf, whose suspension continues: "The guys stepped up in different ways. We had guys get open. We didn’t make a play." Expect adjustments involving Scotty Miller, Adam Thielen, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, plus more tight end usage for Pat Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith, as suggested by ESPN's Mina Kimes. Washington's forearm fracture remains a blow for short-yardage plays.
QB Aaron Rodgers (3,028 yards, 23 TDs, 7 INTs; 110.6 rating in wins) stays focused but coy on his future: "There'll be options if I decide I still want to play." RB Kenneth Gainwell (65 receptions) draws on playoff experience: "I know what it takes to win a game like this."
Defensively, rookie DT Derrick Harmon earns his first start, lauded by Cam Heyward for his hands and instincts. CB Joey Porter Jr. stokes the rivalry: "I never really liked those guys." Thursday's injury report: limited (T.J. Watt-lung, Calvin Austin III-hamstring, Heyward-rest); out (James Pierre-calf/illness).
Ravens updates: Jackson declares "100 percent" ready, shifting from prior uncertainty. Baltimore waived G Ben Cleveland and rides a hot run game, with Derrick Henry topping 200 yards and four TDs last week. Chris Simms still picks Baltimore for ground control. Rob Gronkowski defends Rodgers: "Aaron Rodgers has been doing his part."
Execution in the trenches and home-field edge (Ravens 1 win at Acrisure since 2020) could decide this rivalry renewal.
