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PITTSBURGH — The secret is no longer a secret. If an opposing team has a good defensive line and athletic defensive backs, then the Ravens are beatable. It had already happened three times this season and it happened again Sunday in Baltimore’s 18-16 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers before a crowd of 67,551 at Arcrisure Stadium. The victory put Pittsburgh in first place in the AFC North but more importantly, a blueprint has been put out for knocking off the Ravens. The Kansas City Chiefs did it to open the season, followed by the Las Vegas Raiders and later the Cleveland Browns. What do they all have in common? The Chiefs have stud defensive tackle Chris Jones, the Raiders have defensive end Maxx Crosby and Cleveland has Myles Garrett on one end and Dalvin Tomlinson in the middle. Then came the Steelers. They have Cameron Heyward in the middle and T.J. Watt on the outside. Most teams like to blitz or bring pressure, but Pittsburgh can get consistent pressure with their front four. It drives Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson a little nutty. “It’s been that way ever since last year, I believe, going back to the AFC championship game — we killed ourselves,” Jackson said of the Ravens’ penalties and turnovers. “The Chiefs game [in] the [season] opener, we killed ourselves. [The] Raiders [game], we killed ourselves, and today, it’s the same thing. We can’t be beating ourselves in these types of games. We have to find a way to fix that — it’s annoying.” But Jackson also needs to give these teams credit. They can control him with four players, and the Steelers usually remain disciplined. Sunday’s game got a little sloppy with the teams being penalized 19 times for 125 yards, but good teams, especially in the postseason, get good pressure with their front four. Jackson was sacked twice Sunday but was pressured or hit six other times. The Ravens’ best play is always when Jackson runs around and allows his receivers to get open, but that wasn’t the case Sunday. He had six passes batted down, including two at the line of scrimmage by Heyward. Pittsburgh’s eight victories in the past nine meetings between the teams have come by a touchdown or less. It’s like a new TV series: “Lamar Under Wraps.” He panicked and made some poor decisions throwing back into the middle of the field and even once attempting a pass when he was already out of bounds. But this isn’t just about Jackson. The Ravens thrive on their strong running game, which sets up the play-action passing attack and run-pass options with Jackson and running back Derrick Henry. Henry had only 65 yards on 13 carries and Jackson completed just 16 of 33 passes for 207 yards and one touchdown. He finished with a passer rating of 66.1. “Yeah, it’s big,” said Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen, a former Raven who led his team with 10 tackles. “Just being on that side and coming to this side is big. Knowing what Lamar can do, knowing what the offense can do, especially with all the weapons and how much older everyone is now. It’s not that young Ravens team anymore. “It’s definitely a huge game. You know how this division goes and how it turns out. I think our defense went out there and trusted us to do our job. Nobody tried to do anything different. Nobody tried to be Superman. We just went out there and trusted each other and balled.” The Steelers bothered Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson on Sunday, keeping the two-time MVP out of a rhythm. (Matt Freed/AP) The Ravens had 329 yards of total offense but never found a rhythm. They couldn’t pound the ball because Pittsburgh often crashed the line of scrimmage with cornerbacks and safeties took away the Ravens’ famed toss play to Henry. The Ravens were only 4 of 11 on third down, and most teams strive to be near 50%. Pittsburgh controlled the clock for 36:22 compared with 23:38 for the Ravens. The Ravens couldn’t stay on the field. Heyward had four tackles with one quarterback hurry. Watt had three tackles with one sack and two pressures on Jackson. Nose tackle Keeanu Benton had three tackles and end Larry Ogunjobi had five to lead all the linemen. That’s a pretty good day. Against the Ravens, that’s excellent because it takes them out of their offense. Pass protection is not the Ravens’ forte. Jackson, though, was more concerned with the penalties and the turnovers. The Ravens were flagged 12 times for 80 yards. They lost two fumbles and threw one interception. 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We just have to overcome it and put points on the board.” There might also be some pressure mentally because the Steelers have dominated this series recently. “If anything, we’re just too hyped at the beginning,” Jackson said. “Because I believe when we settle down, we start making things happen. In this type of game, it’s a momentum game, it was swinging for both teams. And those guys had the best swing at the end.” It was more like a punch, one that landed squarely in the gut. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

Leave it to Steelers coach Mike Tomlin to pour some fuel on the fire that burns at the heart of one of the NFL’s most fascinating rivalries. Entering Sunday’s matchup in Pittsburgh, much was made of Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen playing his former team for the first time. A Pro Bowl selection last year in Baltimore, Queen became a free agent this offseason and signed a three-year, $41 million deal with the Ravens’ hated division rival. While Queen said he didn’t receive a contract offer from the Ravens, the writing was on the wall regarding his future when Baltimore acquired Roquan Smith from the Chicago Bears midway through the 2022 season and later re-signed the two-time All-Pro to a five-year, $100 million extension. The Ravens also picked linebacker Trenton Simpson in the third round of the 2023 draft, an obvious succession plan for whenever Queen commanded a lucrative contract in free agency. While Queen acknowledged that he was hurt by being cast aside by the organization that drafted him in the first round in 2020 — and has embraced taking on a “villain” role with his new team — he’s largely avoided the kind of bulletin board material that fans and media gravitate toward. Maybe the most inflammatory thing he’s said since leaving Charm City has been his take that Pittsburgh’s food scene is better than Baltimore’s. So after Sunday’s 18-16 win over the Ravens, Queen didn’t gloat. It was his coach. “You know, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” Tomlin told reporters when asked about Queen’s performance. “I’m glad he is on our team.” He certainly should be, considering Queen finished with a team-high 10 tackles and forced a fumble near the end of the first half that led to a Steelers field goal. With 38 seconds left in the second quarter, Queen ripped the ball from tight end Isaiah Likely’s hands and recovered it himself near the Ravens’ sideline. Though safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and left guard Patrick Mekari were called for offsetting unsportsmanlike conduct penalties after the play, Queen celebrated by running toward the end zone and soaking in the moment with the home crowd. “Seeing [Jackson] after the game, I know he really wants these wins, especially in the division,” Queen said. “Give him all the credit, great player, MVP, but Pittsburgh just has a plan.” Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

A disconcerting season from the NFL’s most accurate kicker of all time continues. Ravens veteran Justin Tucker sent a pair of first-quarter field goals wide left, from 47 and 50 yards, before finally connecting on a 57-yard attempt in the third. That’s six points left on the table in a divisional loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers decided by two. An 18-16 loss pushed Baltimore 1 1/2 games back in the AFC North standings. “Tuck needs to make more kicks,” coach John Harbaugh deadpanned postgame. “He knows that.” Tucker made more of a point to aim further out to the right half between the uprights after hooking his initial two tries. But as he has said all season, his confidence never wavers the next time he steps onto the field. “It’s certainly frustrating,” he said, “especially when we know that these games come down to the wire, like this one did today, that I let a couple get away.” Tucker’s Sunday struggles were the first time he’d missed a pair of field goals in a single game since 2022. It has happened five times before Sunday. Here’s the short list: Sept. 15, 2013 vs. the Cleveland Browns Dec. 14, 2015 vs. the Jacksonville Jaguars Nov. 22, 2015 vs. the St. Louis Rams Dec. 22, 2018 vs. the Los Angeles Chargers Dec. 17, 2022 vs. the Browns “I still remember misses that I had 12 years ago, and I will wake up at night thinking about one that got away,” Tucker said. “But that’s just the nature of playing this position — you have to treat each one like its own kick. So, the first two that I missed today, I was still trying to make it a point to do just that — treat each kick for what it’s worth — and ultimately, just decided to make a slight adjustment moving forward for the remaining opportunities that we would have for the rest of the day. “I just made it a point and communicated with [long snapper] Nick [Moore] and [holder] Jordan [Stout]; ‘Hey, I’m going to pick a target line that’s going to be more right-third of the uprights, and we’re just going to just smash a ball and go from there.'” Back in September, when Tucker missed a field goal in three consecutive weeks to open the season, Harbaugh downplayed it as a “technical issue.” Something he was confident the five-time All-Pro with a maniacal attention to detail could sort out. “He knows exactly what it is,” Harbaugh said at the time. “He just needs to smooth it back out.” That was after Week 3. Tucker was then perfect until a Week 8 loss to the Cleveland Browns. He missed an extra point two weeks later, during “Thursday Night Football” against Cincinnati and unraveled against the Steelers on Sunday. The field conditions at Acrisure Stadium were not an issue, he said, but it “wasn’t ideal.” University of Pittsburgh and Clemson played on the field on Saturday. Throughout the course of a game, grass between the hashes can naturally get chewed up a bit. It’s something they’re accounting for in warmups – which included Tucker connecting on a 60-yard try – and as the game wears on. Tucker’s misses on Sunday were part of an uncharacteristic outing for the Ravens’ league-best scoring attack. His first attempt would have knotted the game at 3 apiece. His second could have given Baltimore an early lead in a matchup where points were hard to come by. Meanwhile, Tucker’s counterpart, Steelers kicker Chris Boswell, sank his six kicks to account for all of his team’s 18 points. Sunday became the first time in the history of the rivalry one team did not score a touchdown and won the game. Tucker is now one errant attempt away from tying his most field-goal misses in a single season. The last time he missed seven field goals was 2015, but it took him 40 tries to get there. He’s only at 22 through Week 11. That 2015 campaign was also the only time he’s finished made fewer than 85% of his field goals in a season. At 73%, Tucker is tracking toward his first sub-80% season. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens flummoxed by Steelers again in mistake-filled 18-16 loss Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis from Ravens’ 18-16 loss to Pittsburgh Steelers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens LB Roquan Smith exits with hamstring injury vs. Steelers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers, November 17, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers live updates: Postgame reaction and analysis from Baltimore’s 18-16 loss In his career, Tucker had an 89.7% success rate on field goals entering Sunday. His 1-for-3 outing drops him to 89.3%, still a half tick better than Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker (89.2%), who underwent knee surgery this week that will sideline him for at least three games. The “most accurate kicker” crown still sits atop Tucker’s head, but it’s hanging on by a few strands of well-coiffed hair. Asked earlier this season if his range has changed at all, now in year 13, Tucker said he felt as good as he’s ever felt. It was just a matter of cleaning up a few details in his swing and strike. “He made the long one, which is good to see, which means he’ still very capable,” Harbaugh said. “Kick ‘em straight and we’ll be good.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Here’s how the Ravens (7-4) graded out at every position after an 18-16 loss to the Steelers (8-2) on Sunday at Acrisure Stadium: Quarterback Lamar Jackson had an off day. He missed open receivers and seemed lost when pressured. Pittsburgh controlled him with a lot of four-man rushes and got a lot of pressure from the outside with outside linebackers Elandon Roberts and T.J. Watt. Jackson completed 16 of 33 passes for 207 yards but had an interception and finished with a passer rating of 66.1. Neither he nor the offense were in sync. Pittsburgh has won eight of nine against the Ravens, and Jackson is 1-4 as a starter. Until proven otherwise, the Steelers own him. Grade: C- Running backs I figured the Ravens would run Derrick Henry more, but that apparently wasn’t in the game plan. Henry rushed 13 times for 65 yards and had a long of 31, but Pittsburgh appeared ready, crashing the line of scrimmage with safeties and cornerbacks. Pittsburgh was committed to not getting beat by Henry or allowing Jackson to throw a lot out of the pocket. Hill had two carries for 13 yards and four receptions for 28, but the possible reception turned into an interception by Payton Wilson in the fourth quarter was a game-changer. Grade: C Offensive line The Ravens had 329 yards of offense, but it was a quiet 329 yards. The Ravens didn’t have good balance, with 19 rushing plays compared with 33 passes. Jackson was sacked twice but pressured six other times. Both tackles, Ronnie Stanley and Roger Rosengarten, struggled on the outside and left guard Patrick Mekari was called at least twice for illegally being downfield. The Ravens were also penalized 12 times for 80 yards, with the offensive line a frequent culprit. Grade: D Receivers The Ravens averaged 12.9 yards a reception and they got decent performances from tight end Isaiah Likely (4 catches, 75 yards) and slot receiver Zay Flowers (2 catches, 39 yards, TD), but the Ravens also had a couple of key drops. Like the rest of this group, the Ravens have to find a rhythm. A key to this offense is Jackson moving around and allowing his receivers to get open, but Pittsburgh kept the pressure on Jackson and receivers struggled with Jackson under pressure. Tight end Mark Andrews only had two catches for 22 yards with a long of 14. Grade: C The Ravens’ offense wasn’t as efficient against the Steelers as it has been in other games this season. (Matt Freed/AP) Defensive line The Steelers kicked six field goals but they pounded the Ravens’ defensive line, rushing 34 times for 122 yards. Harris had 63 yards on 18 carries and Warren had 41 on nine, and Pittsburgh controlled the middle of the Ravens’ defensive line and the perimeter. Despite Pittsburgh’s small-ball passing game, this group got after the Ravens pretty well even though tackles Nnamdi Madubuike and Broderick Washington finished with five tackles each. Grade: C- Linebackers Outside linebacker Odafe Oweh had five tackles, including 2 1/2 sacks. Fellow outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy had a decent game rushing the passer and forced quarterback Russell Wilson to move several times. Weakside linebacker Malik Harrison had six tackles and Trenton Simpson had five, but Pittsburgh found success running off the edges in the second half. Middle linebacker Roquan Smith led the Ravens in tackles with 13 but had trouble slipping and getting off blockers before exiting with a hamstring injury. Regardless, this group turned in a decent game. Grade: C+ Secondary Wilson completed 23 of 36 passes for 205 yards, and it was interesting that the Ravens couldn’t slow him down. Pittsburgh either went with quick passes to receiver George Pickens or over the middle to tight end Darnell Washington, who averaged 21 yards a catch on two receptions. Tre’Davious White played well, even though he should have been called twice for pass interference on Pickens, but at least he gives the Ravens options at cornerback. Safety Ar’Darius Washington had 11 tackles and Kyle Hamilton had 10. Cornerback Brandon Stephens had five tackles including half a sack, but he did give up a 37-yard reception to Pickens in the second half. Regardless, Pittsburgh didn’t play bombs away against this group. Grade: C+ Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens flummoxed by Steelers again in mistake-filled 18-16 loss Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis from Ravens’ 18-16 loss to Pittsburgh Steelers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens LB Roquan Smith exits with hamstring injury vs. Steelers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers, November 17, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers live updates: Postgame reaction and analysis from Baltimore’s 18-16 loss Special teams Justin Tucker missed field goals of 47 and 50 yards, both of which were wide left. Tucker converted on a 54-yard attempt in the third quarter but that won’t stop all the questions about his leg strength for the rest of the year. The Ravens were fortunate that punter Jordan Stout had a good day, averaging 54.3 yards on six punts, including a long of 70 yards. I wasn’t thrilled by Keaton Mitchell returning kickoffs but I have a better appreciation of him now as he returned three kickoffs for 79 yards. Those missed field goals should have been a turning point for the Ravens. Grade: D Coaching It seems coach John Harbaugh comes up with some silly decisions every game. On the 2-point conversion attempt that could have tied the game, the Ravens showed the play as Pittsburgh called timeout. Instead of changing up, the Ravens ran Jackson to the left instead of to the right. Huh? Not smart. It also wasn’t smart for Harbaugh to attempt to move the ball down the field in the final minute of the first half, with a short pass to Likely turning into a fumble and three Pittsburgh points. The offense never got into a rhythm, but at least the defense played well enough to win, even though the Ravens allowed 303 yards of total offense. Grade: D Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

PITTSBURGH — The Ravens came into Sunday’s showdown with the rival Steelers with the NFL’s best offense. All Pittsburgh needed, though, was kicker Chris Boswell. Boswell connected on six field goals and Pittsburgh stopped a would-be game-tying 2-point conversion with 1:06 left to hold on for an 18-16 victory over rival Baltimore in a critical AFC North showdown. The victory improves the Steelers to 8-2 on the year and puts them in control of the division while Baltimore falls to 7-4. Just as impressive as Boswell’s kicking, which included kicks from 52, 57 and 50 yards, was the Steelers’ defense. Reigning NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson was held to just 16 of 33 passing for 207 yards and one touchdown with an interception, just his third of the year. Meanwhile, the Ravens were plagued by silly penalties and costly turnovers that proved too much to overcome, even for the MVP front-runner. Baltimore was flagged 12 times for 80 yards and committed three turnovers, including one on the second play of the game and another midway through the fourth quarter. The latter was a dagger. With the Steelers clinging to a 15-10 lead, Jackson appeared to complete a long pass down the left sideline to running back Justice Hill. But linebacker Payton Wilson wrestled the ball away from him for an interception, killing the drive and giving the ball back to Pittsburgh at its own 36-yard line. The Steelers then methodically moved 32 yards in 10 plays, chewing up 4:39 in the process before Boswell made his final kick of the day. Still, the Ravens had a chance because they have Jackson. Baltimore got the ball back with 3:29 remaining and Jackson drove the Ravens 69 yards in nine plays in 2:29, hitting Zay Flowers for a 16-yard touchdown. But a wild, scrambling pass on the 2-point conversion attempt fell incomplete. Rather than try an onside kick with all three timeouts remaining and just over a minute to play, the Ravens kicked off. The Steelers then converted a third-and-1 to seal it. Baltimore, which has now dropped four straight and eight of its past nine against Pittsburgh, will harp on its missed opportunities. Among them were a pair of first-half missed field goals from Justin Tucker, who misfired from 47 and 50 yards, with both kicks sailing wide left. Likewise, the Ravens’ offense never found its rhythm, though it wasn’t without its chances. Four times Baltimore had the ball in the first 15 minutes of the game. But the Ravens came away with zero points after a fumble by Derrick Henry (13 carries for 65 yards) on the game’s second play and the first of Tucker’s missed kicks. Those weren’t the only missed opportunities. On a third-and-10 from the Steelers’ 30-yard line, Jackson threw incomplete to a well-covered Johnson in the back left corner of the end zone. In doing so, he missed a wide-open Flowers streaking across the field. Tensions were high from the start between the two bitter rivals with first place in the division at stake in their most meaningful contest in years. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson throws a pass while Steelers defensive tackle Dean Lowry closes in on Sunday in Pittsburgh. (Gene J. Puskar/AP) Steelers running back Najee Harris (18 carries for 63 yards) exchanged words after getting stuffed on a fourth-and-1, then linebacker Nick Herbig had words for Jackson after a first down. It kept going, too. Harris pointed for a first down in front of Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton after trying to hurdle him. A brief melee broke out after center Zach Frazier took a run at Humphrey after an 8-yard completion to Pickens. Then Humphrey and tackle Broderick Jones drew offsetting unsportsmanlike penalties. The Ravens’ offense only briefly came to life. Trailing 6-0 with about five minutes remaining in the half, Jackson hit Rashod Bateman for a 19-yard gain over the middle. Then Henry shot through a hole off left tackle for a 31-yard gain with only Minkah Fitzpatrick’s shoestring tackle saving a touchdown. It was only a matter of time. Jackson connected with tight end Isaiah Likely (4 catches for 65 yards) for an 18-yard gain down the left sideline and two carries later Henry plunged across the goal line for the touchdown. But even when the Ravens took a step forward, they took two back. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis from Ravens’ 18-16 loss to Pittsburgh Steelers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens LB Roquan Smith exits with hamstring injury vs. Steelers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers, November 17, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers live updates: Postgame reaction and analysis from Baltimore’s 18-16 loss Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Eddie Jackson won’t travel with team to Pittsburgh On first-and-10 from their own 9-yard line with just 38 seconds remaining in the half, Jackson hit Likely on a short pass, but the tight end was stripped by former Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen, who also recovered the fumble, leading to an easy 32-yard field goal to push Pittsburgh back in front 9-7 at the half. Things also got tense immediately following the turnover with Mekari and Fitzpatrick getting flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct. Jackson, who was tied with Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow for the NFL lead in touchdown passes (24) and tops in yards per attempt (9.3) coming into the week, was just 8 for 18 for 120 yards in the first half. It was also a wasted effort for what has been a much-maligned defense. Odafe Oweh had three sacks. Broderick Washington added another. Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson was held to just 205 passing yards for the game and without a touchdown, and Harris averaged just 3.5 yards per carry with a long of 13 yards. It still wasn’t enough. This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Ravens kicker Justin Tucker reacts after missing his second field goal attempt Sunday against the Steelers in Pittsburgh. (Matt Freed/AP) View the full article

Here’s what The Baltimore Sun sports staff had to say immediately after the Ravens’ 18-16 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Sunday afternoon’s Week 11 game at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh: Childs Walker, reporter: It’s uncanny how, no matter what’s going on with either team, the Ravens and Steelers find their way back to tense, brutal games decided as much by what goes wrong as what goes right. Pittsburgh turned Lamar Jackson and the league’s top offense into a disjointed mess. Russell Wilson threw a crucial interception and couldn’t find the end zone against the Ravens’ league-worst pass defense. It’s a formula that has favored the Steelers in the recent history of the AFC North’s most enduring rivalry. Mistakes have defined the Ravens’ recent losses to Pittsburgh, and that was the case again in the first half Sunday. They started on a sour note with Derrick Henry losing a fumble in their territory, though they did well to hold the Steelers to a field goal. A holding penalty on Ronnie Stanley short circuited their second drive. On drive No. 3, Justin Tucker missed (left, of course) from 47 yards after Isaiah Likely’s 42-yard catch and run put the Ravens in prime position to score. Tucker also missed from 50 later in the first half, and his struggles have become a significant issue as the Ravens look ahead to the postseason. Jackson had time to throw, but his radar was as off as we’ve seen it all season. The Ravens stayed in the game because their oft-maligned defense did a terrific job pressuring Wilson and getting Pittsburgh off the field on third downs. Odafe Oweh was dominant. Tre’Davious White, playing his first snaps as a Raven, broke up a potential touchdown just before halftime after Likely coughed up another fumble deep in Baltimore territory. Mike Preston, columnist: The Ravens played right into the Steelers’ hands. They didn’t have much of an offense and quarterback Lamar Jackson had an off day, at least according to his standards. The defense played surprisingly well, holding Pittsburgh to six field goals, but the Steelers’ offense is pretty vanilla. They didn’t throw the ball downfield much, and they stuck with a lot of screens and short to intermediate passes across the middle. It was a sloppy game, but there are no excuses. The Steelers outplayed the Ravens up front and dominated the line of scrimmage. It was as simple as that as the Steelers take control of the AFC North. Sam Cohn, reporter: Well this was something new. The Ravens’ offense — statistically the NFL’s best — seemed all out of sorts from the start, marred by two fumbles (Derrick Henry and Isaiah Likely) and an interception. They were continually bailed out by their defense. Pittsburgh’s touchdown-less outing was the first time since Week 9 last year an opposing team couldn’t find the end zone. By the end, the defense looked gassed and undermanned, with linebacker Roquan Smith ruled out with a hamstring injury. Baltimore’s 12 penalties for 80 yards hurt them (they lead the league in both categories). Justin Tucker’s pair of missed field goals were deflating, compared to his counterpart, Chris Boswell’s perfect 6-for-6. And even when cornerback Marlon Humphrey came up with a critical interception in the end zone, the offense failed to capitalize. That said, these Ravens are never truly out of it. Lamar Jackson manufactured an impressive nine-play, 69-yard final drive, capped by a Zay Flowers touchdown. But a malfunction on the 2-point conversion — a play that curiously did not include Henry — keeps the Ravens a game and a half back in the AFC North. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers, November 17, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers live updates: Pittsburgh leads 15-10 in 3rd quarter Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Eddie Jackson won’t travel with team to Pittsburgh Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Kyle Hamilton says he’ll play Sunday vs. Steelers; CB Arthur Maulet out Baltimore Ravens | Ravens gearing up for a showdown with the Steelers | PHOTOS Tim Schwartz, editor: There’s something in the Monongahela River and it’s proved to be the Ravens’ kryptonite. Despite not allowing a touchdown for the first time since its demolition of the Seahawks last year, Baltimore couldn’t solve the Steelers and now have an uphill climb to repeat as AFC North champions. Three turnovers, two missed field goals by Justin Tucker and one failed 2-point try were too much to overcome for the Ravens, who somehow look ordinary against the Steelers time and time again — and it’s hard to explain why. Pittsburgh is inexplicably 8-2. It defies logic. The Ravens have their work cut out for them and have the Chargers and Eagles next before their bye. That’s not an easy road, and they’ll look back at this one if they somehow miss the postseason and waste Lamar Jackson’s best season yet. Bennett Conlin, editor: A comedy of errors cost Baltimore a win and the AFC North lead. The defense hung tough for much of the afternoon, giving the team at least one positive to take from the disheartening loss. As for the offense, it played its worst game of the season, turning the ball over three times and scoring just two touchdowns. It didn’t help that Justin Tucker missed a pair of field goals in the low-scoring game, as questions about his performance will linger throughout the season. Can Baltimore trust their legendary kicker in 2024? It was sloppy. The Ravens made far too many mistakes to beat a competent opponent on the road. It’s a frustrating loss for players, coaches and fans because the Ravens look like a more legitimate Super Bowl contender than the Steelers, but they couldn’t get out of their own way. From the special teams failures to the offensive mishaps to the unrelenting penalty woes, Baltimore didn’t look like a team deserving of a division lead. View the full article

Ravens linebacker and defensive leader Roquan Smith walked gingerly off the field under his own power in the fourth quarter and was ruled out with a hamstring injury Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, a significant loss during a game in which Baltimore’s defense was its strongest unit. Smith leads Baltimore in tackles with 110, 13 of which came Sunday. He was taken to the blue medical tent earlier in the game but returned before a second exit. CBS cameras panned to Smith on the sideline running his fingers through his hair in frustration with the verdict he would not be able to return. His absence was immediately evident. Without their green dot signal-caller, the Steelers drove the length of the field in eight plays before cornerback Marlon Humphrey picked off Pittsburgh quarterback Russell Wilson in the back of the end zone. Ravens interior defensive lineman Travis Jones was also in and out of the lineup Sunday. After a week of limited participation in practice nursing an ankle injury, Jones returned to the field after halftime with a pronounced limp. His designation has not yet been announced. This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Baltimore Ravens place kicker Justin Tucker reacts after missing a field goal against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) looks to pass as Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi (99) and defensive tackle Dean Lowry (94) try to stop him during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) throws a pass between the coverage of Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Dean Lowry (94) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson, right, attempts to catch a pass in front of Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr. during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (9) and holder Jordan Stout watch as Tucker misses a second field goal attempt during the first half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) throws a pass between the coverage of Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Dean Lowry (94) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson takes the snap against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson scrambles against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Matt Freed) Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris, left, runs with the ball as Baltimore Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison (40) and linebacker Roquan Smith (0) try to stop him during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Matt Freed) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson looks to pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Matt Freed) Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell (9), with Corliss Waitman holding, kicks a field goal gainst the Baltimore Ravens during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry, left, runs with the ball as Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton (95) tries to get to him during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Matt Freed) Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith (0) tackles Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Matt Freed) Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) is pursued by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Kyle Van Noy during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson works out prior to an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Matt Freed) View the full article

The Ravens (7-3) and Pittsburgh Steelers (7-2) meet Sunday at Acrisure Stadium with first place in the AFC North on the line. Baltimore has won seven of its past eight games behind NFL Most Valuable Player favorite Lamar Jackson, while Pittsburgh has won four in a row while scoring 26 or more points in each game. Russell Wilson is 3-0 as the starter since taking over for Justin Fields. Follow along here for live coverage and analysis. View the full article

The Ravens’ secondary depth could be tested Sunday. Veteran safety Eddie Jackson will not travel to Pittsburgh with the team and has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Steelers. The Ravens said the move is non-injury related, as Jackson didn’t appear on the injury report this week. Jackson, 30, has recorded 30 tackles in nine games this season while playing 55% of the defensive snaps. The two-time Pro Bowl selection and 2018 All-Pro with the Chicago Bears signed a one-year deal in the offseason to provide depth behind starters Kyle Hamilton and Marcus Williams. Hamilton is expected to play Sunday despite suffering an ankle injury in last week’s win over the Cincinnati Bengals and missing practice Wednesday, but cornerback Arthur Maulet was ruled out after suffering a calf injury at Thursday’s practice. The depth at safety includes Ar’Darius Washington, who has been a regular contributor at safety this season, seventh-round draft pick Sanoussi Kane and undrafted free agent Beau Brade. The Ravens also acquired veteran cornerback Tre’Davious White at the trade deadline, but the 29-year-old has yet to make his team debut. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Kyle Hamilton says he’ll play Sunday vs. Steelers; CB Arthur Maulet out Baltimore Ravens | Ravens gearing up for a showdown with the Steelers | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers rivalry holds extra meaning for those who played both sides Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers takes center stage again with old-school feel Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers staff picks: Who will win Sunday’s game in Pittsburgh? Baltimore’s passing defense enters Week 11 ranked last in the NFL, allowing 294.9 yards per game. According to Pro Football Reference, Jackson has allowed three touchdown passes and a 132.2 passer rating when targeted this season. He’s also ranked 82nd of 87 safeties in Pro Football Focus grading. The Ravens also elevated inside linebacker Kristian Welch from the practice squad for Sunday’s game. Welch, 26, has been a contributor on special teams in two games this season during his second stint with Baltimore. He can be promoted one more time before the Ravens need to either add him to the 53-man roster or waive him. The Ravens (7-3) can take first place in the AFC North with a win over the Steelers (7-2), who have won four straight games and three in a row with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback. View the full article

Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton will play in Sunday’s critical AFC North showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Eight days after suffering a right ankle injury in a win over the Cincinnati Bengals, the All-Pro and versatile third-year defender practiced for a second straight day in Owings Mills and declared himself ready to go. Coach John Harbaugh also said he was optimistic that Hamilton would play. “It was big for me to go out and at least do a full practice before the game,” Hamilton said Friday. “I’ll be out there.” He added that he was initially scared the injury was more serious when went down late in the second quarter of Baltimore’s game against the Bengals at M&T Bank Stadium, thinking it was perhaps a torn Achilles tendon. It turned out to only be a sprain, and he said the long weekend of rest helped. Cornerback Arthur Maulet (calf), however, won’t be available. The 31-year-old veteran was in a walking boot after Thursday’s practice and was ruled out Friday. It’s been a rough season for the former Steeler, who only recently returned from a hamstring injury, which was preceded by a knee injury that landed him on injured reserve to start the season. With Maulet sidelined, that should mean a slight uptick in snaps for defensive back Ar’Darius Washington, who can play both safety and nickel back. It could also result in utilizing cornerback Marlon Humphrey more inside with rookie Nate Wiggins and Brandon Stephens on the outside. Hamilton’s return, though, is a boost for a pass defense that is the worst in the NFL with Baltimore allowing a league high 294.9 passing yards per game along with 7.9 yards per completion, which ranks 29th. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens gearing up for a showdown with the Steelers | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers rivalry holds extra meaning for those who played both sides Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers takes center stage again with old-school feel Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers staff picks: Who will win Sunday’s game in Pittsburgh? Baltimore Ravens | Ravens DC Zach Orr ‘crushed’ after win vs. Bengals and held an open forum film study Defensive tackle Travis Jones (ankle), who has been one of the league’s best interior defenders this season, is questionable after being limited Thursday and Friday. Otherwise, the Ravens (7-3) are largely healthy with Maulet the only absence Friday two days ahead of the their first game against the Steelers (7-2) this season with first place in the division on the line. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, will be without edge rusher Alex Highsmith (ankle) and cornerback C.J. Henderson (neck). Reserve tight end MyCole Pruitt (knee/rest) was also listed as doubtful after not practicing all week. Highsmith is third on the team in sacks with three and has 24 total pressures this season, per Pro Football Focus. Last season, he had a crucial strip-sack of Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson to help seal the Steelers’ 17-10 victory in Pittsburgh. Running back Jaylen Warren (back) was a limited participant, however, after not practicing Thursday. The third-year back is second behind Najee Harris on the depth chart and has rushed for 217 yards on 55 carries and has 14 catches for 96 yards this season. He recorded 66 rushing yards and 29 receiving yards in Sunday’s win against the Washington Commanders, both season highs, but also lost a fumble at the 1-yard line in the fourth quarter. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Nelson Agholor participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Roquan Smith tosses the ball during team practice before traveling for a Sunday NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. (Karl M. Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson, left, talks with teammate Zay Flowers during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jaskson participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens cornerbacks Tre'Davious White, left and Arthur Maulet practice before traveling for a Sunday NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. (Karl M. Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson turns upfield during team practice before traveling for a Sunday NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. (Karl M. Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens secondary coach Doug Mallory talks during team practice before traveling for a Sunday NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. (Karl M. Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Tylan Wallace participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Roquan Smith catches the ball during team practice before traveling for a Sunday NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. (Karl M. Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Nelson Agholor participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jaskson participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Show Caption1 of 17Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Nelson Agholor participates in a passing drill during Thursday's practice in Owings Mills, Md. (Kevin Richardson/Staff). (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Expand View the full article

The Steelers were on their way to the airport after a dramatic, one-point victory over the Commanders on Sunday when linebacker Patrick Queen turned to safety DeShon Elliott and informed him that he was going to avoid the locker room back in Pittsburgh this week. The reason, Elliott said on ex-teammate Marlon Humphrey’s podcast, was simple: “You know why,” he recounted. “It’s that week. It’s Ravens week.” Of course, Queen, who, like Elliott, spent his first four seasons in the NFL in Baltimore, couldn’t entirely avoid it, by choice or otherwise. “Even though I signed here, you still go through those feelings,” Queen told reporters, “knowing a long four years that you put in, blood, sweat and tears over there, the guys you bonded with, built close relationships with. “You put your body on the line every single time you went out there even when you could barely move your leg or whatever the injury might have been. You try to go out there and do your best for your team. I definitely did feel a certain type of way after the whole situation, but I’m over it now.” This week’s AFC North blockbuster between the Ravens (7-3) and Steelers (7-2) at Acrisure Stadium takes on a level of import the longstanding and tense rivalry hasn’t seen in years, the winner strong-arming first place with just seven weeks remaining in the regular season after it. Once the NFL’s best rivalry in the early 2000s and front end of the 2010s, the rekindling takes on another layer this year. Three former Ravens — Elliott, Queen and linebacker Jeremiah Moon — now play for Pittsburgh. Meanwhile, two ex-Steelers — cornerback Arthur Maulet and wide receiver Diontae Johnson — are now with Baltimore. It makes for a juicy subplot in a game already full of intrigue. No one is more at the nexus of it than the former Ravens Pro Bowl linebacker, who, along with Roquan Smith, roamed the middle for a Ravens defense that was once one of the best in the league. At his introductory news conference in Pittsburgh in March, he embraced the role of heel when it came to the Ravens. “I wanna be that villain,” Queen said. “I wanna be that guy, so I’m looking to do some stuff to them.” Then this week, he bemoaned Baltimore not offering him a contract before he became a free agent this past offseason, though it was obvious what their plans were after signing Smith to a lucrative extension, not picking up Queen’s fifth-year option and drafting his replacement, Trenton Simpson, in 2023. “I wasn’t offered to go back,” Queen said. “I don’t know if I ever put that out there in the public or not. I wasn’t offered back. It was definitely kind of upsetting, being there for four years and the bond you grow with your teammates.” Former Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen, left, is looking forward to facing Roquan Smith, right, and the rest of his former teammates Sunday. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) The same was true for Elliott after a spate of injuries during his tenure with the Ravens before he signed with the Detroit Lions and then Miami Dolphins before joining the Steelers this season. “I wouldn’t say [I’m a] traitor because [general manager] Eric DeCosta had a chance to sign me back and he chose not to,” Elliott told Humphrey on the podcast. “He chose to sign No. 32 [Marcus Williams].” The same, of course, was true of former Steelers receiver Johnson, whose career in Pittsburgh had its share of acrimony — including a heated argument with teammate Minkah Fitzpatrick after a loss to the Cleveland Browns last November — before he was traded to the Panthers in the offseason. His stint with Carolina lasted just seven games, though, with Baltimore acquiring him at the trade deadline 10 days ago in a swap of draft picks. “Just being back in that stadium, where it all started, it’s going to be different,” said Johnson, who downplayed any ill feelings toward the Steelers this week and added that he still keeps in touch with several former teammates there. “I’m ready to get back there, just to see the good people that I made relationships with, but other than that, it’s a big moment for me.” The same could have been true for Maulet as well, though he suffered a calf injury Thursday in practice that will likely keep him out of the contest. Before getting hurt, however, he was looking forward to facing the team that he asked for a release from after the 2022 season over a contract dispute. He quickly signed with the Ravens, then re-signed with Baltimore this offseason. “It’s a little bit [special],” he said earlier in the week. “I think it’s just business at this point. It’s a big game for the whole team not just me.” Especially for the Ravens. Pittsburgh has won seven of its last eight against Baltimore, including both games last season, though Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson along with most of the team’s starters didn’t play in the second meeting with their No. 1 playoff seed having already been wrapped up. Jackson also has a career record of just 1-3 against the Steelers, who have befuddled and frustrated him into costly mistakes on the few occasions that he has faced them. (The reigning NFL Most Valuable Player has missed several games against Pittsburgh because of injury or illness.) Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens gearing up for a showdown with the Steelers | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers takes center stage again with old-school feel Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers staff picks: Who will win Sunday’s game in Pittsburgh? Baltimore Ravens | Ravens DC Zach Orr ‘crushed’ after win vs. Bengals and held an open forum film study Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers Week 11 betting guide: Picks, predictions and odds Another loss would drop the Ravens further back of the Steelers, making the road back to the AFC title game that much more difficult to navigate. And as for what role that added degree of familiarity will play between the two teams and the players that have been on both sides of the rivalry? “I think it plays a small part,” Smith said. “But make no mistake about it, they know what we’re going to do, we know what they’re going to do. “We know they’re physical, so are we. And it’s about play in and play out doing your job and smashing the guy across from you. And if we do that, we would like the odds.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Terrell Suggs used to tell younger Ravens teammates that playing the Steelers would define them. He also said he and his comrades wanted to kill Hines Ward. Joey Porter stalked the Ravens’ team bus, hoping to fight Ray Lewis as retribution for perceived taunts from the Baltimore sideline. More important than these extracurricular words and ill feelings were the games. The stakes were high; Pittsburgh and Baltimore finished one-two in the AFC North seven times between 2010 and 2020. But that only hinted at the essence of this neighborhood war. As violent as a typical NFL game is — the proverbial car crash on every play — Ravens-Steelers tapped into something more primal. Even a casual fan watching on television picked it up. “I remember watching it,” Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson said Wednesday as his team prepared to renew hostilities with the Steelers. It was the rare NFL rivalry that meant something to fans with no stake in it, a twice-annual encounter with the uncomfortably compelling brutality at the heart of America’s favorite sport. In recent years, however, Ravens-Steelers turned stranger and somehow less central to the story of the NFL or even the story of the AFC North. With Jackson as their centerpiece, the Ravens have made the playoffs five times since 2018 while the Steelers have reached three postseasons. At the same, time, Pittsburgh has owned Baltimore head-to-head, winning seven of the past eight meetings by a combined margin of 28 points. Those losses featured some odd lapses such as the Ravens’ seven drops in Pittsburgh last year. More importantly, Jackson, a natural successor to Suggs, Ben Roethlisberger, Ward and Lewis as the rivalry’s central character, has missed six starts against the Steelers. He was sick with COVID-19 once, resting up for the playoffs twice and injured thrice. Without him, the games were close, unpredictable but diminished. When was the last time a meeting between the Ravens and Steelers produced an indelible memory? Antonio Brown’s stretch over the goal line on Christmas Day 2016 that secured a 31-27 win and the AFC North for the Steelers? Maybe Pittsburgh’s 39-38 comeback win on a Sunday night in December the following year? In other words, before most players on either current roster joined the fray. Which helps explain why Sunday’s matchup in Pittsburgh is so tantalizing for old-school fans of the blood feud. Pittsburgh (7-2) and Baltimore (7-3) again hold first and second place in the division, both three wins clear of the Cincinnati Bengals, who muddied the picture at the top in recent years. Both have played well enough to inspire visions of deep postseason runs. Jackson will lead one of the most efficient offenses in recent NFL history against the Steelers’ No. 2 scoring defense. “It’s trying to win the division; that’s the first way to get in the tournament, first way to try to win a world championship,” Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken said. “We didn’t play very good last year on the road. Gave that away.” There are big new characters to freshen things up, from Derrick Henry leading the league in rushing for Baltimore to Russell Wilson adding a downfield passing element to Pittsburgh’s suddenly threatening offense. Others have crossed battle lines, with linebacker Patrick Queen going to the Steelers and wide receiver Diontae Johnson coming to the Ravens. On a Sunday that also features the 9-0 Kansas City Chiefs visiting the 8-2 Buffalo Bills, it’s a showdown compelling enough to seize center stage. “It’s exciting,” Ravens tight end Mark Andrews said when asked if it feels fitting to face Pittsburgh with a chill in the air and the division lead on the line. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson talks with wide receiver Diontae Johnson, a former Steeler who came over in a trade from the Panthers. “I feel like social media has just changed the difference between how intense the rivalry was back then versus now,” Jackson said of the Ravens-Steelers clash. (Kim Hairston/Staff) He did not, in his next breath, profess enduring dislike for the gold and black or threaten to bury his former teammate, Queen, with a block. Such jabs rarely creep into statements from either side in this era. The Ravens’ locker room was, if anything, unusually buttoned up as preparations for the Steelers accelerated. Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr, who also played in the rivalry, said there’s no less intensity: “I think you probably just can’t say it out loud anymore.” A young Jackson might have delighted in watching those old defensive stare downs. But he’s not sure such a singular rivalry is possible these days. “I believe [that] social media [has] got everyone [as] rivals right now,” the reigning NFL Most Valuable Player theorized. “Every team we go against, no matter who we’re playing, some kind of way, [there’s] some history. So, I feel like social media has just changed the difference between how intense the rivalry was back then versus now.” He’s not wrong. Fans are more apt to pit him against the Bengals’ Joe Burrow or the Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes than they are to obsess over his record against Pittsburgh. That said, a virtuoso performance against the defense that has held him to a 66.8 passer rating would be another highlight in a season shaping up to be Jackson’s greatest. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens DC Zach Orr ‘crushed’ after win vs. Bengals and held an open forum film study Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers Week 11 betting guide: Picks, predictions and odds Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Kyle Hamilton returns to practice Thursday, but CB Arthur Maulet injures calf Baltimore Ravens | READERS RESPOND: Ravens or Steelers? Here’s who fans picked to win the AFC North Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Who shoulders blame for poor pass defense? | COMMENTARY If there’s a player most apt to stoke the old animosity between Pittsburgh and Baltimore, it might be Queen, who has now seen the rivalry from both sides. He spoke to Pittsburgh reporters Wednesday about the hurt he felt when the Ravens did not offer him a contract in the wake of his 2023 Pro Bowl season. But he made it clear that what will happen Sunday transcends his personal emotions. “A whole lot of trash talk. A whole lot of hitting. That’s basically it,” Queen said. “It’s not going to be a lot of trick stuff going on. It’s going to be football plays. We are going to line up and see who lasts the longest. … Practice is going to be more intense. Meetings are going to be more intense. Everybody is going to be locked in.” That might not stack up to Porter wanting to rumble with Lewis in the parking lot or Haloti Ngata breaking Roethlisberger’s nose or Steelers safety Ryan Clark knocking himself and Ravens running back Willis McGahee loopy in a terrifying head-on collision. But it’s a start. Have a news tip? Contact Childs Walker at daviwalker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6893 and x.com/ChildsWalker. View the full article

Here’s how The Baltimore Sun sports staff views the outcome of Sunday’s Week 11 game between the Ravens (7-3) and Steelers (7-2) at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh: Brian Wacker, reporter Ravens 23, Steelers 20: The Steelers have won seven of their past eight against Baltimore, though some of that should be taken with a grain of salt since Lamar Jackson didn’t play in about half of those games. He’s now playing the best football of his career in large part because of how careful he’s been with the ball, with just two interceptions this season and none in a month. Pittsburgh being without outside linebacker Alex Highsmith is also a blow to the pass rush. The Ravens’ bigger concern is on defense and Russell Wilson beating them deep, either on a key third down and/or a play late in the game, like Kenny Pickett did last season. But Jackson has been too good, and as stout as the Steelers’ run defense has been (fourth in the NFL allowing 87.1 yards per game), Jackson can beat them through the air then let Derrick Henry and Keaton Mitchell help seal it late. Childs Walker, reporter Steelers 27, Ravens 24: Pittsburgh has the defensive talent to pressure Lamar Jackson without blitzing. Russell Wilson’s downfield strikes to George Pickens feel like the perfect arrows to shoot at a shockingly vulnerable secondary. The Steelers have owned this series since 2019 despite the Ravens’ overall superiority, and they’ll go into Sunday believing they have the formula to continue their dominance. So much comes down to Jackson, who’s on the greatest passing roll of his career. Can he go off against the opponent that has troubled him more than any other? Not this time. Pittsburgh will limit him just enough, and Wilson will exploit the Ravens’ fatal flaws. Mike Preston, columnist Ravens 24, Steelers 21: I’m still not sure the Steelers are for real. They play good run defense, but I have concerns about them on the back end, especially cornerbacks Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson. Pittsburgh is allowing 215.6 passing yards per game, which ranks 19th in the league. Offensively, quarterback Russell Wilson reminds me of Joe Flacco last season when he was with Cleveland. Flacco had no conscious and just threw the ball all over the field. Wilson will throw some toss-ups Sunday and he’ll hit on a couple with receiver George Pickens, but the Ravens have too many weapons for the Steelers. C.J. Doon, editor Ravens 27, Steelers 26: This one feels like a coin flip, which is a huge compliment to the Steelers given how well the Ravens are playing. To me, it comes down to which team can create more explosive plays. Russell Wilson has generated plenty of them with moonballs to George Pickens and Mike Williams, and Calvin Austin III is a threat to break loose. A poor Ravens secondary that’s now dealing with a limited Kyle Hamilton is vulnerable, to say the least. The Steelers clearly have the better defense, even without pass rusher Alex Highsmith, but the Ravens’ “pick your poison” offense is close to unstoppable. Lamar Jackson simply has more answers with Derrick Henry, Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman and Mark Andrews all playing at a high level. If the Steelers can slow down this version of the Ravens’ offense and force Jackson into some mistakes, then they truly have his number. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens DC Zach Orr ‘crushed’ after win vs. Bengals and held an open forum film study Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers Week 11 betting guide: Picks, predictions and odds Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Kyle Hamilton returns to practice Thursday, but CB Arthur Maulet injures calf Baltimore Ravens | READERS RESPOND: Ravens or Steelers? Here’s who fans picked to win the AFC North Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Who shoulders blame for poor pass defense? | COMMENTARY Tim Schwartz, editor Ravens 30, Steelers 23: The Ravens have not fared well against the Steelers in recent years, and there’s something about going to Pittsburgh. It’s the case for every team that makes the trek to Western Pennsylvania. The Steelers, no matter how talented, are always in it under Mike Tomlin. While they’ve had Baltimore’s number, Lamar Jackson is the best football player on the planet, and I don’t see Pittsburgh’s defense slowing him enough to win. On the other side of that coin, though, is Russell Wilson, who will have his chances against this woeful Ravens defense. Maybe I am naive, but I’m a believer. Baltimore’s defense, including its secondary, will get better, and it starts Sunday in the biggest game of the year for both teams. Bennett Conlin, editor Steelers 27, Ravens 24: Before the season started, I was certain the Ravens were the better team. I still think they are, but the margin is slimmer than I anticipated. Pro Football Focus actually gives the Steelers a better overall team grade than the undefeated Chiefs. Russell Wilson has played well at quarterback, averaging 8.7 yards per attempt and throwing six touchdown passes with one interception in three games since returning from a calf injury. The Steelers will stress Baltimore’s subpar secondary, and they have the only defense in the division good enough to slow down Jackson and the Ravens. Pittsburgh pulls the upset. View the full article

After edging out the Cincinnati Bengals in a prime-time division battle that was decided by an edge-of-your-seat final minute, Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr had a hard time hearing family, friends or people around M&T Bank Stadium encouraging him to enjoy the win. “I was crushed,” he said. Orr was grateful to have left Thursday night with the victory but said there was a reason he barely slept and arrived back at the team’s Owings Mills facility early Friday morning. The Ravens’ defense allowed 421 passing yards, the most another team has managed against them all season. Cincinnati scored five touchdowns, tying a season-high against Baltimore, including two one-play scoring drives. But the Ravens eked out the 35-34 win by denying a late 2-point conversion attempt. “Honestly, as a defense, we did enough to win that game,” Orr said. “Even thought it was by the skin of our teeth. We did enough to win the game, so enjoyed it for two seconds. But man, in this building, the standard is so high. That’s what we like. “We have high expectations for ourselves. We’re real competitive. And when we don’t go out there and perform the way we should go perform, it hurts. I was hurtin’. It took me a couple days to get over that and move forward.” There has been a lot of talk of “standard” the past week, in particular. That the Ravens’ defense hasn’t lived up to the years-long reputation set by their predecessors — carried through last year when Baltimore became the first triple-crown defense in NFL history, leading in points allowed, sacks and takeaways — has been a point of contention. Coach John Harbaugh said he heard players say “that’s not the standard” to one another postgame. Cornerback and defensive leader Marlon Humphrey, who spoke introspectively for two minutes about the state of the defense, opined that this group “lost the standard” and took accountability. On Thursday, green dot linebacker Roquan Smith called the margin of victory over the Bengals “embarrassing.” Orr acknowledged that he felt like they’ve “fallen short of the standard” several times this year. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers Week 11 betting guide: Picks, predictions and odds Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Kyle Hamilton returns to practice Thursday, but CB Arthur Maulet injures calf Baltimore Ravens | READERS RESPOND: Ravens or Steelers? Here’s who fans picked to win the AFC North Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Who shoulders blame for poor pass defense? | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers scouting report for Week 11: Who has the edge? Thus, coaches spent the long weekend back in the facility looking to work out the kinks. Orr said there was a film session with players that felt more like an open forum conversation, asking themselves, as Humphrey noted last week, what is the disconnect between what they’re accomplishing in practice that isn’t showing up for four quarters on Sunday (or Thursday or Monday)? “It’s not just them,” Orr said. “I asked them, ‘What can I do better?’ Maybe I can cut out some things to make us lock in and focus better. … That’s what I think we’re continuing to try to find and chase.” Smith didn’t unravel a spool of details from the private session. But he said one person’s mistake often leads to a second person trying to make up for it, and the whole group falls out of sync. It’s a couple plays in each game, Smith said without pointing a finger, that leave the team falling short. Such film sessions accompanied by conversations are commonplace. But Orr, tightening his lip into a half smirk, said this one was a “real good conversation.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Few NFL rivalries (if any) have been more entertaining since 2000 than Ravens-Steelers. The AFC North foes always seem to be competitive, especially with Mike Tomlin and John Harbaugh coaching. The 2024 edition of the rivalry kicks off Sunday in Pittsburgh, when the 7-2 Steelers host the 7-3 Ravens. Even those without math degrees can quickly surmise that the winner will lead the AFC North. The loser will face an uphill climb to the division title. “Historically, we’ve had some awesome matchups,” Tomlin said. “There’s always AFC North ramifications. I just respect this rivalry.” Baltimore, despite playing on the road and losing seven of its past eight to Pittsburgh, is the betting favorite across Maryland sportsbooks. Historical trends say that’s a dangerous place to be in this rivalry. Since 2015, the underdog in this matchup is 15-2-1 against the spread, according to Action Network data. For whatever reason, the underdogs have been exceptionally successful when Baltimore and Pittsburgh meet. What are the odds? The spread favors Baltimore, but not by much. For the ninth time this season, the Ravens are favorites in the betting markets. Spread: Ravens -3 (FanDuel) Total: 48.5 points Moneyline: Ravens -180, Steelers +152 Pittsburgh is 7-2 against the spread, tied with Detroit as the best ATS record in the NFL. The Ravens are 5-4-2 ATS this season, a respectable mark for a team often favored by significant margins. Nine of the Ravens’ 10 games have gone over the point total. Underdogs thrive in series With underdogs dominating this series, I’m taking the Steelers spread this weekend. Pittsburgh has exceeded expectations this season, and the passing attack looks more dangerous with Russell Wilson — no “Danger Russ” pun intended — than it did with Justin Fields at quarterback. Defensively, the Steelers have the linemen to pressure Lamar Jackson, and they’ve shown the ability to defend the pass and stop the run. Pittsburgh is second in the NFL in scoring defense, allowing just 16.2 points per game. There’s still a strong case the Ravens are the better overall team — that’s what happens when you have a two-time MVP quarterback entering his prime — but they struggle defensively. They’re allowing a league-worst 294.9 passing yards per game, and safety Kyle Hamilton suffered an ankle injury that could hamper him this weekend. “It’s just happening way too much with us right now,” Harbaugh said of lapses in the secondary. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens DC Zach Orr ‘crushed’ after win vs. Bengals and held an open forum film study Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Kyle Hamilton returns to practice Thursday, but CB Arthur Maulet injures calf Baltimore Ravens | READERS RESPOND: Ravens or Steelers? Here’s who fans picked to win the AFC North Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Who shoulders blame for poor pass defense? | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers scouting report for Week 11: Who has the edge? Can the Ravens slow down wide receiver George Pickens? He’s caught both of his touchdown passes this season in the past three weeks, suggesting his connection with Wilson could be a problem for opposing defenses. Pickens, who went over 1,000 receiving yards last season, is on pace to do so again this year. He’s averaging 16 yards per reception, and the Ravens are allowing 7.9 yards per pass attempt, which is fourth-worst in the NFL. With decent weather expected — 60 degrees in Pittsburgh in mid-November is balmy in my book — the over could be a solid wager yet again for a Ravens Sunday. I lean toward the Steelers covering the spread, the game going over the total and Pickens reaching the end zone (+135 on FanDuel). My favorite bet of those three is the Steelers covering the small spread, as I predict Pittsburgh to pull the upset. Best bet: Steelers +3.5 (DraftKings) Have a news tip? Contact sports editor Bennett Conlin at bconlin@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/BennettConlin. View the full article

Kyle Hamilton returned and appeared to move fluidly through individual drills in the Ravens’ penultimate practice before heading to Pittsburgh. The All-Pro safety suffered an ankle injury during last Thursday’s narrow win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Coach John Harbaugh said Monday that Hamilton would receive testing, punting any further updates to Wednesday, when he said, “it’s the same as what we talked about.” Hamilton would provide a significant boost for a secondary that let through four touchdowns in his absence — three of which went to Ja’Marr Chase, two took the top off the defense for 65-plus-yard scores. Hamilton limped off the field late in the second quarter. His status for Sunday’s 1 p.m. divisional showdown with the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium has not yet been announced. As a whole, Baltimore’s secondary ranks last in the NFL in pass defense. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said earlier this week he doesn’t see any negligence that’s indicative of their statistical standing. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | READERS RESPOND: Ravens or Steelers? Here’s who fans picked to win the AFC North Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Who shoulders blame for poor pass defense? | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers scouting report for Week 11: Who has the edge? Baltimore Ravens | Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has one thing left to conquer in regular season: the Steelers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens finally had a game without drone issues at M&T Bank Stadium “It’s still the Ravens defense, man,” he said. “I know a lot has been written and said about their pass defense, but to be quite honest with you, when I turn the tape on … I see a group that’s definitively up on people, and a lot of people are getting out of their personalities and are simply somewhat one dimensional, and throwing the ball 40 and 50 times against them.” With Hamilton’s return and outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy back in the fold after missing Wednesday due to illness, the Ravens have a relatively healthy roster for Week 11 standards. Tight end Isaiah Likely missed most of last week nursing a hamstring injury. He was a limited participant on Wednesday and was back at practice Thursday. Defensive end Brent Urban practiced fully after he missed a pair of games recovering from a concussion. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

We asked readers who will win the AFC North: Ravens or Steelers? Here are the results from our online poll, Instagram and X: Ravens — 360 votes Steelers — 165 votes Here’s what some fans told us (answers have been edited for clarity and grammar): Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | READER POLL: Will Ravens or Steelers win the AFC North? Baltimore Ravens | READERS RESPOND: Here’s what fans told us about the Orioles’ free agents, Terps and Ravens Baltimore Ravens | READER POLL: Should the Orioles re-sign Anthony Santander and/or Corbin Burnes? Baltimore Ravens | READERS RESPOND: Here’s what fans say is the Ravens’ biggest concern Baltimore Ravens | READER POLL: What is your biggest area of concern for the Ravens? The Steelers have had a mostly soft schedule thus far, but they are playing better since starting Russell Wilson at quarterback. Still, the Ravens offense is playing near a league-record pace. Despite a good defense, the Steelers will be overmatched against Lamar and the Ravens wealth of offensive tools. — Fred S. We have to fix the defense first. — Lee Holbrook It will be a rout. Look at what the Ravens have done last year and thus far this year in beating teams on a roll with healthy win-loss records. Time to put the Steelers where they belong. Looking up in the standings. — Edward Ilioff The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To see results from previous sports polls, go to baltimoresun.com/sportspoll View the full article

Baltimore Sun columnist Mike Preston will answer fans’ questions in the middle of each week throughout the Ravens season. After a 35-34 win over the Cincinnati Bengals last Thursday night, Baltimore (7-3) is firmly in AFC North contention ahead of Sunday’s game at Pittsburgh (7-2). Here’s Preston’s take on a handful of questions from readers: (Editor’s note: Questions have been edited for length and clarity.) How much accountability do you place on the Ravens’ defensive coaching staff for having one of the worst passing defenses in the NFL? Also, do you anticipate a coaching change on that side of the ball before the end of the season? Is getting to average a possibility? — Chris Urban Chris, I don’t anticipate a coaching change on that side of the ball during the course of the season. When changes are made, it could take weeks or maybe a month to transition as far as scheme and verbiage. At this point, all of those involved in hiring Zach Orr as the defensive coordinator and Chris Hewitt as the pass game coordinator will accept responsibility, from owner Steve Bisciotti to general manager Eric DeCosta to coach John Harbaugh. All were aware and knew of the plans to hire Orr and apparently no one vetoed the deal. If the Ravens were going to make a move, they did it several weeks ago by bringing in former defensive coordinator Dean Pees as an adviser. As of now, I think the Ravens will stay the course with Orr. Regardless of how poorly the Ravens are playing in the secondary, they are 7-3 and could be in first place this Sunday with a victory over the Steelers. A move to replace Orr at this time would be a panicked move, and I’m not sure the Ravens are willing to give up at this point. In coach speak, they need to just keep working hard and hope things turn around. The good news is that few teams play good defense in the NFL anymore. If fact, some of the stuff I’ve seen on Sunday afternoon is downright embarrassing. Mike, I asked you weeks ago whether you thought that the Ravens missed Patrick Queen. After witnessing the last several games, don’t you think Roquan Smith misses Queen? In retrospect, didn’t Queen’s fluidity allow Roquan to cover less ground and focus on the gaps? Now through 10 weeks, do you think the Ravens should’ve re-signed Queen? — Max N. Panoff Sorry, Max, the Ravens signed Smith to a five-year contract in January 2023 worth $100 million with $45 million fully guaranteed and $60 million in total guarantees. When a player of that caliber signs such a lucrative deal, it is nearly impossible to spend that much money on other players at similar positions. So, the Ravens weren’t going to sign Queen, who signed a three-year, $41 million deal with the Steelers in late May. Smith’s contract essentially meant the end of Queen’s tenure in Baltimore. Do the Ravens miss him? Yes. Did he and Smith have a good chemistry? Yes. But the bottom line is always about money and the salary cap. As for the past two weeks, second-year linebacker Trenton Simpson has played extremely well for the Ravens and might be on the verge of becoming more of a dominant player. As for Queen, he has gotten mixed reviews in Pittsburgh. Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith hasn’t played as well this season without Patrick Queen alongside him. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) What does Tre’Davious White bring to the table for the Ravens? In your opinion, does he actually have anything left in the tank after injuries he suffered while with Buffalo? Apparently, the Rams didn’t think so anymore. — Ed Helinski Ed, honestly, the Ravens got White and a 2027 seventh-round draft pick for a 2026 sixth-round pick. The move reminds me of an old Billy Preston song, “Nothing from nothing leaves nothing.” If it works out, great for the Ravens. They have no place to go but up. They are ranked last in the NFL in pass defense, allowing 294.9 yards per game. If it doesn’t, it’s no big deal because it only involved a swap of late-round draft picks. White is expected to get more playing time against the Steelers on Sunday, so we’ll see. No one is expecting to see Deion Sanders, that’s for sure. After 10 games of mostly poor defensive play, is the time getting close to hit the panic button? Zach Orr’s defense, with many of the same players from last season’s outstanding defense, is quickly becoming the laughingstock of the NFL. What role is Dean Pees performing, and is he an option to replace Orr? Also, is 2022 second-round draft pick David Ojabo approaching “bust” status? — Bob in NC Nope, it’s not time to hit the panic button. The Ravens aren’t happy with their problems on defense, but they are still title contenders and one of the best teams in the NFL. They just have to let it play out and see where this takes them. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Kyle Hamilton returns to practice Thursday Baltimore Ravens | READERS RESPOND: Ravens or Steelers? Here’s who fans picked to win the AFC North Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers scouting report for Week 11: Who has the edge? Baltimore Ravens | Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has one thing left to conquer in regular season: the Steelers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens finally had a game without drone issues at M&T Bank Stadium As for Ojabo, I wouldn’t quite declare him a bust yet, but the window of opportunity is closing on his career in Baltimore. Harbaugh said Ojabo would have a breakout year, but he hasn’t come close to that level. The former Michigan star has only five tackles with one sack and four quarterback hits this season while being a healthy scratch twice. He’s played just 13 NFL games because of injuries. The Ravens are a team in need of pass rushers, and thus far Ojabo hasn’t delivered despite a promising college career. Do the Ravens have other options besides Marcus Williams at safety? He is a significant weakness on this defense. — Tim Mace Right now, the Ravens have other options but Williams seems to be their best bet because of his experience. You can question some of the team’s decisions, but they see these guys every day in practice and in meeting rooms. But I also have to acknowledge that the Ravens signed Williams to a five-year contract worth $70 million in March 2022. When a player makes that kind of money, he usually plays, regardless of his performance level. That’s the way the NFL works. Have a question for Mike Preston? Email sports@baltsun.com with “Ravens mailbag” in the subject line and it could be answered in The Baltimore Sun. View the full article

The Ravens hung on to beat the Bengals, 35-34. The Steelers rallied to knock off the Commanders, 28-27. Who will have the advantage when these rivals meet Sunday in Pittsburgh with first place in the AFC North up for grabs? Ravens passing game vs. Steelers pass defense Lamar Jackson is on his way to not only the best passing season of his career but one of the most efficient passing seasons in NFL history. He leads all quarterbacks in yards per attempt, touchdown passes, passer rating and ESPN’s QBR. He’s piloting an offense that’s the fourth best through 10 games ever measured by DVOA. The Bengals initially flummoxed him by not attacking as they had five weeks earlier in Cincinnati, but Jackson figured that out as well, throwing for 219 yards and three touchdowns after halftime as the Ravens rallied to victory. Wide receiver Zay Flowers (50 catches, 688 yards, 3 TDs) and tight end Mark Andrews (30 catches on 36 targets, 5 TDs in past five games) have settled in as his top targets, but the beauty of the Ravens’ offense is any playmaker can become the star in a given week, as Tylan Wallace did with his 84-yard catch-and-run against Cincinnati. Rashod Bateman also bounced back from a pair of rough weeks with six catches, including the game-winning touchdown. Pittsburgh’s defense has been the closest thing to kryptonite for Jackson, who’s 1-3 as a starter against the Steelers with a 66.8 passer rating. He has also missed six games in the rivalry because of injury, illness or rest. Last year, a flabbergasting series of drops by Ravens receivers left Jackson on the wrong end of a 17-10 loss in Pittsburgh. The Steelers will present a monumental test to Jackson’s pass protection because they bring pressure from the edges and from the interior without blitzing at a high rate or sacrificing discipline. Outside linebacker T.J. Watt (6 1/2 sacks, 16 quarterback hits) and defensive tackle Cam Heyward (five sacks, 14 quarterback hits) are familiar nemeses and remain as good as anyone at their positions. Pittsburgh’s other top edge rusher, Alex Highsmith, is out after he injured his ankle against the Commanders, but the Steelers will likely welcome back second-year outside linebacker Nick Herbig, who had 2 1/2 sacks in five games before he hurt his ankle in early October. Jackson has punished pressure of all kinds this season, but his offensive line could not give him a consistently clean pocket in the Ravens’ Oct. 27 loss to the Cleveland Browns, the last opponent to attack with so many high-end pass rushers. If Jackson does have time to operate, there are defenders to attack in the Pittsburgh secondary, including former Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen and cornerbacks Donte Jackson and Joey Porter Jr. Even there, the Steelers are dangerous, with 16 takeaways so far this season. EDGE: Ravens Steelers passing game vs. Ravens pass defense Russell Wilson has fundamentally changed Pittsburgh’s offense in three games since he took over for Justin Fields as the team’s starting quarterback. Wilson has completed just 58.8% of his passes but has averaged 8.7 yards per attempt compared with 6.9 for Fields because he’s still gifted at throwing downfield. His presence has invigorated No. 1 receiver George Pickens (14 catches, 276 yards, 2 TDs in Wilson’s three starts). Wilson also found new addition Mike Williams on a beautiful 32-yard connection for the winning score against Washington. This is all bad news for a Ravens secondary that has allowed more 20-yard-plus catches than any in the league and that cannot cover No. 1 wide receivers. Pickens isn’t as reliable or dynamic as Cincinnati’s Ja’Marr Chase, who just torched the Ravens for 264 yards and three touchdowns, but he’s plenty capable of winning one-on-one matchups downfield and in the red zone. Tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington are also reliable targets. If there’s any good news for the Ravens, it’s that Wilson doesn’t like to attack the middle of the field, where they’ve been particularly soft. But they desperately need better performances from cornerback Brandon Stephens and safety Marcus Williams, both of whom played dreadfully against the Bengals. They’ll hope to have their best defensive player, safety Kyle Hamilton, who injured his ankle against Cincinnati. The Ravens at least got their pass rush going in that shootout victory with Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow being pressured on 29 dropbacks. Defensive tackle Travis Jones was healthy for the first time in a month and made an immediate difference. Defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike had his best game of the season with 10 pressures and three sacks. Edge rushers Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh combined for 16 pressures. Wilson isn’t the runner he was in his youth, but he still likes to hold the ball as he probes for downfield targets, so the Ravens will have their chances to reach him. Pittsburgh’s offensive line is a mixed bag. Left tackle Dan Moore Jr. has graded much better than right tackle Broderick Jones as a pass blocker. EDGE: Steelers Ravens running game vs. Steelers run defense The Ravens still lead the league in rushing and yards per attempt but failed to exceed 100 yards for the first time all season against Cincinnati. Derrick Henry, the league’s leading rusher, carried 16 times for 68 yards and a touchdown but never broke loose for a big gain. Jackson tightroped down the sideline for one of the most jaw-dropping 10-yard scrambles you’ll ever see as the Ravens rallied past the Bengals, but he hasn’t looked to run much (10 carries, 37 yards) since he missed two practices with knee and back injuries leading up to the Ravens’ Nov. 3 win over the Denver Broncos. Keaton Mitchell, a change-of-pace sensation for the Ravens as a rookie last season, returned from a serious knee injury but played just two offensive snaps against the Bengals. Might he play a larger role in Pittsburgh to make the Steelers account for a a different look? Ravens running back Derrick Henry rushed for just 68 yards in his last outing, a win over the Bengals. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Pittsburgh’s defense ranks fourth against the run, having allowed just 3.8 yards per carry. Only the New York Giants went off against the Steelers with 157 yards in an Oct. 28 Pittsburgh victory. Watt and Heyward are known as pass rushers first but both make big plays against the run. Ravens fans know Queen covers ample ground in the middle, even if his Pro Football Focus grade says he has been a below-average run defender in Pittsburgh. Another former Raven, strong safety DeShon Elliott, remains a violent hitter in run support. His partner, free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, also excels in this area. Pittsburgh will try to keep Henry from getting to the edge and punish him when he gets finds open ground. He averaged a modest 4.1 yards per carry against the Steelers when playing for the Tennessee Titans. EDGE: Even Steelers running game vs. Ravens run defense The Steelers have run persistently but not efficiently this year, ranking second in the league in attempts but 24th in yards per carry. Starting running back Najee Harris (645 yards, 4.1 per carry) hurt his ankle against Washington but is expected to play Sunday. Backup Jaylen Warren averaged 5.3 yards per carry last season but is down to 3.9 in 2024. He’ll present a formidable challenge between the tackles if Harris is limited. Fields was a greater running threat than Wilson, but Pittsburgh’s ground game hasn’t taken a notable step back since the quarterback switch. The Ravens have allowed the fewest yards per game and per carry in the league, and many opponents simply abandon the run because there’s so much more damage to be done through the air. If the Steelers stick doggedly to grounding and pounding, they might play into the hands of a Baltimore defense most comfortable in that style of game. Jones’ return bolstered an interior line that’s still missing Michael Pierce (calf). For all his struggles in coverage, linebacker Roquan Smith remains an excellent playmaker against the run. If Hamilton is absent or limited, the Ravens would be without their other stellar run defender. EDGE: Ravens Ravens kicker Justin Tucker has been inconsistent this season, while the Steelers’ Chris Boswell has only missed one field-goal attempt in 24 tries.(Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens special teams vs. Steelers special teams Ravens kicker Justin Tucker continued his confounding season, missing an extra point attempt against the Bengals. With that misfire and four missed field goal attempts, he’s a significant reason the Ravens rank an unfamiliar 19th in special teams DVOA. On the bright side, Mitchell could bolster their return game, and punter Jordan Stout continued his string of excellent performances against Cincinnati. The Steelers rank third in special teams DVOA with three standout performers in kicker Chris Boswell (23 of 24 on field goal attempts), punter Corliss Waitman and punt returner Calvin Austin III (11.9-yard average, touchdown vs. the Giants). EDGE: Steelers Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Kyle Hamilton returns to practice Thursday Baltimore Ravens | READERS RESPOND: Ravens or Steelers? Here’s who fans picked to win the AFC North Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Who shoulders blame for poor pass defense? | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has one thing left to conquer in regular season: the Steelers Baltimore Ravens | Ravens finally had a game without drone issues at M&T Bank Stadium Ravens intangibles vs. Steelers intangibles John Harbaugh and Mike Tomlin are the league’s longest-tenured coaches and longest-standing rivals. The Ravens have won more games, made more playoff appearances and captured more AFC North titles since Jackson arrived on the scene in 2018. But they have lost seven of their past eight, often bizarrely and with Jackson sidelined, against the Steelers. Jackson might be headed for his third NFL Most Valuable Player award. His .747 winning percentage as a starter is undeniable. He also has never played a truly great game against Pittsburgh. The Ravens, with seven wins in their past eight games, will come in with a welcome three-day rest advantage. The Steelers, holding a 1/2-game advantage in the division, have won four straight and discovered a big-play component with Wilson at quarterback. They’re 3-1 at home. This has all the makings of a great rivalry game. EDGE: Steelers Prediction Pittsburgh has the defensive talent to pressure Jackson without blitzing. Wilson’s downfield strikes to Pickens feel like the perfect arrows to shoot at a shockingly vulnerable secondary. The Steelers have owned this series since 2019 despite the Ravens’ overall superiority, and they’ll go into Sunday believing they have the formula to continue their dominance. So much comes down to Jackson, who’s on the greatest passing roll of his career. Can he go off against the opponent that has troubled him more than any other? Not this time. Pittsburgh will limit him just enough, and Wilson will exploit the Ravens’ fatal flaws. Steelers 27, Ravens 24 View the full article

More than 1,100 miles separate Pittsburgh from Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, and the two disparate locales share little in common. As for their football teams, however, there is a surprising tie that binds. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has been equally vexed by both. “I hated ’em; I still hate ’em,” Jackson cracked Wednesday of the Lauderdale Lakes Vikings, a youth football program with teams ranging from age 4 through 13 that continually stifled him in his earliest days. “All I can think about is the games we lost against ’em. “I beat ’em when it counted. But they beat me regular season all the time. I used to get ticked off. I used to be crying. I was a kid, I be hurtin’. But I beat ’em when it counted, and we won the Super Bowl.” To reach the NFL’s version this season, Baltimore will likely have to go through the Steelers, who the Ravens will face Sunday at Acrisure Stadium with first place in the AFC North on the line. And to do that, Jackson will have to find a way to vanquish the one team that has continually plagued him throughout a six-plus year career that already includes two NFL Most Valuable Player Awards and potentially a third this season. For all of his success at the sport’s highest level, Pittsburgh has somehow been Jackson’s kryptonite, pestering him into some of the worst performances of an otherwise Hall of Fame-worthy resume. Since he took over as the Ravens’ full-time starter in 2019, Jackson has just a 1-3 mark against the Steelers. His paltry quarterback rating of 66.8 is his lowest mark against any team in the league. And he has completed only 59.1% of his passes to go with four touchdowns, seven interceptions and five fumbles while also being sacked a whopping 20 times. Jackson’s lone win: A 26-23 victory in Pittsburgh in October 2019 in which he completed 19 of 28 passes for 161 yards and a touchdown and rushed 14 times for 70 yards — but was intercepted three times. The Steelers have also won seven of their past eight meetings against the Ravens, though Jackson didn’t play in more than half of them for a variety of reasons. In the 2019 and 2023 season finales, Baltimore rested him with their playoff seeding wrapped up. In 2020, he was out with COVID for a December contest in Pittsburgh. In 2021, he was out with an ankle injury for a Week 18 game in Baltimore. And in 2022, he missed both meetings because of a season-ending knee injury. Jackson also acknowledged that not playing in all those games against a hated division foe in a storied rivalry has stuck with him. “But I get a chance to go up against them this year, so I’m good,” he said. “I’m looking forward to that.” Through the first 10 weeks of the season, he’s also been far better than good. Jackson has completed 69.1% of his passes for 2,669 yards, the latter easily on pace for a career high. His 24 touchdown passes are tied for the most in the league and he has just two interceptions, including none in the past month. His 9.3 yards per attempt and passer rating of 123.2 are also tops in the NFL. Unsurprisingly, as Jackson has gone, so has Baltimore’s explosive offense. Ravens Steelers FootballGene J. Puskar/APRavens quarterback Lamar Jackson has played some of his worst games against the Steelers. (Gene J. Puskar/AP) The Ravens lead the league in points (31.8) and yards (440.2) per game, red zone scoring (76.74%) and yards per play (7.1). They are also first in rushing yards per game (182.6), yards per rush (5.7) and third in passing yards per game (257.6). Their offensive defense-adjusted value over average (DVOA) of 38.6%, meanwhile, ranks fourth-best of any team from 1979 through now, per FTN Fantasy. Still, the Steelers have managed to befuddle Jackson in the handful of occasions he’s been on the field against them. “You want me to tell you the secret?” Steelers-turned-Ravens cornerback Arthur Maulet said this week. “This is what they’re trying to do with Lamar: They’re going to put a person at the dive and they’re gonna run a person straight at Lamar. They’re gonna make him make a decision. One person goes to Lamar, one person goes to the dive for the [run-pass option] and that’s gonna be their game plan to slow him down a little bit. “Maybe they changed a little bit; I haven’t been there in a while.” Maulet signed with Baltimore after asking to be released following the 2022 season over a contract dispute. Then he re-signed with the Ravens this past offseason. During his tenure in Pittsburgh, however, he only got to play against Jackson once and said a lot has changed since then, notably the Ravens’ offensive scheme from coordinator Greg Roman to Todd Monken. “They were teaching take the mesh point away from Lamar; make him make a decision quick,” Maulet said. “It’s a little bit of a different offense now, so let’s see how they handle him now.” Maulet added that the difference between Jackson then compared with the player he is now is also significant. “Tremendously,” he said. “He gets better every year, really every week. He has so much poise. A lot of people talk about these other quarterbacks who are so much better than him, but I just don’t see it.” In last season’s loss in Pittsburgh, however, that wasn’t the case. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens S Kyle Hamilton returns to practice Thursday Baltimore Ravens | READERS RESPOND: Ravens or Steelers? Here’s who fans picked to win the AFC North Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: Who shoulders blame for poor pass defense? | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens vs. Steelers scouting report for Week 11: Who has the edge? Baltimore Ravens | Ravens finally had a game without drone issues at M&T Bank Stadium Jackson completed 22 of 38 passes for 236 yards but was intercepted once and sacked four times. That included in the game’s closing minute when, trailing 14-10, he dropped back to pass from his own 44-yard line and Alex Highsmith burst in for a strip-sack to help seal the victory. An ankle injury will keep Highsmith out of this week’s game, but a year later the quarterback is still searching for an answer to the Steelers’ riddle. “I don’t know what it is, man,” Jackson said. “Last year, we [were] supposed to [beat] them, but things just didn’t go our way. The football gods weren’t on our side. “But it’s a whole other year, it’s a new year.” Now the only question is if the result will be different, too. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Officials with the Maryland Stadium Authority were relieved there were no drone incidents at the Ravens’ home game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday, a problem that has plagued M&T Bank Stadium over the past year. According to data provided by the Maryland Stadium Authority, there have been eight temporary flight restriction violations and unauthorized drone flights during the five Ravens regular-season games this season. The Nov. 3 game against the Denver Broncos saw two incidents. Four occurred on Oct.13 against the Washington Commanders. In addition, there was one incident for each of the home games Sept. 29 against the Buffalo Bills and Sept. 15 against the Las Vegas Raiders. Other than Thursday’s, only the Aug. 9 and Aug. 17 preseason games were unaffected. Federal law restricts unmanned aircraft systems, such as drones, from flying at or below a 3-mile radius of any stadium with a seating capacity of 30,000 or more people during games for the National Football League, Major League Baseball, NCAA Division I football and major motor speedway events, according to the Federal Aviation Administration Investigators from the Maryland State Police and FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force handle the initial law enforcement response and investigation into drones violating temporary flight restrictions during Ravens games. Cases are referred to the FAA and U.S. Attorney’s Office for review and potential prosecution. “When we identify the drones, we dispatch law enforcement to address that issue,” Vernon J. Conaway Jr., vice president for public safety and security with the Maryland Stadium Authority, said at the organization’s monthly meeting Tuesday. “We didn’t have anything on Thursday, and we hope to continue that trend for the rest of the season.” On Nov. 16, 2023, the game between the Ravens and Bengals was halted twice because of a drone flying above M&T Bank Stadium. The players were forced to clear the field until security deemed the drone was no longer a threat. The pilot flying that drone said he was unaware that the stadium was a restricted zone. In March, a Pennsylvania man pleaded guilty to a federal airspace violation and was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay a $500 fine for the misdemeanor conviction for flying a drone over M&T Bank Stadium during the AFC championship game between the Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs. Have a news tip? Contact Todd Karpovich at tkarpovich@baltsun.com, on X as @ToddKarpovich. View the full article

Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton did not practice Wednesday but did run on the sideline as he works to recover from the ankle injury he suffered last Thursday against the Cincinnati Bengals. Hamilton’s status for Sunday’s high-stakes AFC North matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers is unclear. His absence would be another blow to a Baltimore pass defense that ranks last in the league after giving up 428 yards and four touchdowns to Cincinnati’s Joe Burrow. Hamilton limped off just before halftime after his ankle buckled. He did not return to the game. Ravens coach John Harbaugh said his Pro Bowl safety avoided a serious ankle injury but that the timeline for his return was unclear. Harbaugh was asked about Hamilton’s progress Wednesday but offered no new information. Outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy (illness) was the only other Raven absent from practice. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens finally had a game without drone issues at M&T Bank Stadium Baltimore Ravens | Colts return to Anthony Richardson as starting QB over Joe Flacco Baltimore Ravens | Keaton Mitchell’s return gives Ravens ‘three-headed monster’ in backfield Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey is back to playing like ‘All-Pro Marlo’ Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston: The Ravens aren’t alone. The NFL has a defense problem. | COMMENTARY Tight end Isaiah Likely returned as a limited participant after missing the Bengals game with a hamstring injury. Defensive end Brent Urban practiced fully after missing the past two games because of a concussion. For the Steelers, outside linebacker Alex Highsmith, already ruled out for Sunday by coach Mike Tomlin, was absent as expected, but outside linebacker Nick Herbig was a full participant in Wednesday’s practice as he prepares to return from a hamstring injury. Highsmith has three sacks this season and Herbig has 2 1/2 for a defense that ranks second in the league in scoring, allowing 16.2 points per game. Running back Najee Harris (ankle), wide receiver Van Jefferson (quadriceps) and cornerback Donte Jackson (hamstring) did not practice Wednesday, though Tomlin has said Jackson and Harris are likely to play against the Ravens. Defensive tackle Cameron Heyward and left guard Isaac Seumalo received an extra day of rest. Have a news tip? Contact Childs Walker at daviwalker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6893 and x.com/ChildsWalker. View the full article

INDIANAPOLIS — Anthony Richardson will be the Indianapolis Colts’ starting quarterback Sunday against the New York Jets and he will start for the rest of this season, coach Shane Steichen said Wednesday. The move comes two weeks after Steichen benched Richardson in favor of 39-year-old Joe Flacco. Flacco has struggled the past two weeks, committing six turnovers in two ugly losses to the Minnesota Vikings and Buffalo Bills. The former Ravens star is 1-3 as a starter this season and has six turnovers, including four interceptions, in the past two games. Steichen said he sat Richardson, the No. 4 overall draft pick in 2023, because he wanted to see the 22-year-old quarterback working at a higher level behind the scenes and that he had seen progress on that front. Richardson threw just 393 passes in college at Florida. This article will be updated. View the full article