The Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens, both at 6-6, face off Sunday in a game that could decide the AFC North leader. Pittsburgh's recent 26-7 loss to Buffalo exposed defensive vulnerabilities, particularly against the run, while the Ravens hold the tiebreaker. Roster moves and injuries add uncertainty as both teams vie for playoff positioning.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for a crucial Week 14 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday at 1 p.m. EST, with both teams tied at 6-6 and the Ravens holding the edge via tiebreaker. A win would put the victor in the driver's seat for the AFC North crown, as noted by former tight end Rob Gronkowski, who called the Steelers "the most complete team in the division" despite their inconsistencies.
Pittsburgh's defense struggled mightily in their 26-7 defeat to the Buffalo Bills last week, allowing 249 rushing yards—the most ever at Acrisure Stadium. This comes after a playoff loss to Baltimore last season where the Ravens rushed for 299 yards, including 186 from Derrick Henry. CBS Sports' Pete Prisco predicts a Ravens victory, expecting Henry to exploit Pittsburgh's run defense woes, saying, "If I’m the Ravens, I am not doing anything the first couple of drives except giving it to the big fella."
Injuries compound the challenges: EDGE T.J. Watt (toe), ILB Patrick Queen (glute), QB Aaron Rodgers (wrist), and DL Derrick Harmon (knee) did not practice Wednesday, with Harmon ruled out. Steelers EDGE Alex Highsmith referenced the playoff loss as fuel, stating, "It still sucks... that’s something that I think is fueling us for this week." On offense, Rodgers clarified post-game comments on film sessions, emphasizing, "I meant that everybody come there with an open mind."
Roster tweaks include waiving CB Darius Slay, who struggled with 28 receptions allowed for 396 yards, and claiming WR Adam Thielen, whom Rodgers praised for having "a lot left in the tank." New Ravens safety Alohi Gilman is eager to "officially become a Raven" by beating Pittsburgh, having recorded 34 tackles since his trade.
The Steelers' run defense has shown bounce-backs, like holding Jonathan Taylor to 45 yards, but must contain Henry (931 rushing yards, seventh in NFL) and Lamar Jackson. Baltimore's defense ranks 26th, and Jackson has struggled post-hamstring injury. With the division potentially decided by a 9-8 record, Pittsburgh aims to rebound amid speculation about coach Mike Tomlin's future.
