AFC Divisional Playoff Race Part 2 ~ The Sweet Life Of J and E

Baltimore Ravens Pittsburgh Steelers

These two teams are no strangers to each other. The past 11 meetings between have been decided by an average of 10.6 points a game with the last 4 having a difference of just 3 points. Pittsburgh has came out on top 6 out of 11 last meetings.

Lets take a glance at the season ranks for both teams.

Baltimore Ravens:

Passing: 208.4 yrds 20th overall
Rushing: 114.4 yrds 14th overall
Passing Defense: 224.9 yrds 21st overall
Rushing Defense: 93.9 yrds 5th overall

Pittsburgh Steelers:

Passing: 225.1 yrds 14th overall
Rushing: 120.3 yrds 11th overall
Passing Defense: 214 12th overall
Rushing Defense: 62.8 1st overall

Keys To The Game:

Steelers:

For them it all boils down to Troy Polamalu. If he can stay healthy and command the Steelers defense, they have a great shot in pulling this one out. Although the Ravens have a been able to pass on the Steelers averaging about 260 yrds this season, they haven't been able to score in the redzone.

Ravens:

The Ravens defense will be vital! They have to force quick 3 and outs. They can't afford to have Big Ben and that offense to stay on the field long because they will score. In order to do this, they must shut down the Steelers rushing attack and pressure Roethlisberger. Force him to throw across his body. Defense wins championships and the Ravens have one of the best.

Prediction:

Even though the Steelers have the best run defense in the league, I believe the Ravens will have some success running the ball. When the Steelers defense tightens up, the passing game will gain the bulk of the yards. Joe Flacco has had success in recent years throwing the ball. Troy Polamalu has been injured this year, but you can never count him out. Overall, the Ravens have more weapons on offense along with a heavy hitting defense. This game is going to have a feeling of old school smashmouth football.