The Pittsburgh Steelers visit the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. This AFC Wild Card showdown kicks off at 8:00 PM ET as the Ravens, 12-5, host their AFC North rivals, the Steelers, who enter at 10-7.
This season, the two teams split their meetings, with each winning at home. Baltimore took the most recent game on December 21, defeating Pittsburgh 34-17. Both teams have playoff experience, but the Ravens will look to overcome past postseason disappointments, led by Lamar Jackson and a powerful rushing attack featuring Derrick Henry.
Pittsburgh Steelers Preview – Wilson Looks for Redemption
The Steelers limp into the playoffs on a four-game losing streak, including a narrow 19-17 loss to Cincinnati in Week 18. Veteran quarterback Russell Wilson brings a 9-7 postseason record and a Super Bowl ring but has struggled recently, averaging just 171.2 passing yards per game this season. He will need to improve for Pittsburgh to have a chance.
Pittsburgh’s offense ranks 15th in the league, relying heavily on its run game, led by Najee Harris. Harris finished the season strong, complementing a defense anchored by T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. The Steelers have forced opponents into turnovers, but their offense has been inconsistent, scoring no more than 17 points during the current losing streak.
Defensively, Pittsburgh ranks ninth against the run, but they’ll face their biggest test in Derrick Henry, who rushed for 162 yards in their last matchup. The Steelers must limit Henry and force Lamar Jackson into mistakes to stay competitive.
Baltimore Ravens Preview – Jackson Aims to Rewrite Playoff Story
The Ravens enter the playoffs riding a four-game winning streak. Lamar Jackson leads the offense but has been inconsistent in past postseason appearances, with a 2-4 playoff record. Jackson has focused on staying composed and avoiding turnovers as he looks to lead Baltimore deeper into the playoffs.
Derrick Henry has been dominant this season, rushing for 1,921 yards and 16 touchdowns. Baltimore’s rushing attack ranks first in the league and will be a focal point against a tough Steelers defense. With wide receiver Zay Flowers ruled out, Jackson will rely heavily on tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely in the passing game.
Baltimore’s defense ranks eighth overall and excels at stopping the run, allowing just 80.1 yards per game on the ground. Led by Roquan Smith and Marlon Humphrey, the unit will look to pressure Wilson and force turnovers to maintain control of the game.
Betting Prediction
The Ravens are 9.5-point favorites, with the total set at 43.5 points. Baltimore’s strong finish to the season, combined with Pittsburgh’s recent struggles, gives the home team the edge. Expect the Ravens’ ground game and defense to dominate, while Pittsburgh may struggle to generate consistent offense.
Look for the Ravens to control the tempo and cover the spread. The under is a reasonable pick, given Pittsburgh’s recent offensive struggles and Baltimore’s strong defensive metrics.
Pick: Ravens -9.5, Under 43.5
