Baltimore Ravens vs Pittsburgh Steelers – Preview, Prediction and Betting Tips 06/01/2024

The Baltimore Ravens host the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium for their Week 18 National Football League matchup on Saturday, January 6th at 6:30 p.m.

Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens, led by the dynamic Lamar Jackson, have been a force to be reckoned with this season. With an impressive 13-3 record, they have already secured the top seed in the AFC, which gives them the freedom to rest key players in this game.

Since the bye week, the Ravens have notable wins against teams like the Rams, Jaguars, 49ers and Dolphins.

Lamar Jackson has been the heart of the Ravens’ offense, completing 67.2% of his passes for 3,678 yards, 24 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. In addition to his passing skills, Jackson is a threat in the ground game, leading the team with 821 yards and 5 touchdowns.

In the air game, Zay Flowers and Odell Beckham Jr. have been reliable targets, combining for 1,423 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns. Mark Andrews has also been a key contributor with 45 receptions. The Ravens’ rushing game, averaging 159.7 yards per game, is one of the best in the league.

Defensively, the Ravens are even more formidable, allowing just 16.4 points and 302.1 yards per game. Roquan Smith leads the team with 158 tackles, while Justin Madubuike has been effective in putting pressure on the quarterback with 13 sacks. Geno Stone, with 7 interceptions, leads a secondary that has been difficult to overcome.

Pittsburgh Steelers

On the other hand, the Pittsburgh Steelers enter this game with a season of ups and downs. With a 9-7 record, they are in the running to secure a spot in the playoffs, making this game against the Ravens crucial. The team is coming off important victories against the Bengals and Seahawks.

Quarterback Mason Rudolph has been a bright spot for the Steelers. Completing 68.5% of his passes for 567 yards, 2 touchdowns and no interceptions, Rudolph showed accuracy and efficiency. His performance will be vital against the Ravens’ formidable defense.

On the offensive aspect, George Pickens and Deontae Johnson have been the main threats in the aerial game, combining for 1,768 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns. They offer dynamic and versatile options for Rudolph, capable of creating impactful plays. In the ground game, Najee Harris has been the workhorse, leading the team with 923 yards and 7 touchdowns.

Defensively, the Steelers have been solid, allowing an average of 19.6 points and 349.5 yards per game. Elandon Roberts, with 100 tackles, has been a pillar on defense, while T.J. Watt, with 17 sacks, continues to be a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks. Levi Wallace, with 2 interceptions, also contributed significantly to the secondary.

Conclusion:

The Steelers are fighting for a playoff spot, while the Ravens, already assured of first place, may opt to rest key players. Finally, the forecast wet weather could level the playing field, potentially favoring the underdogs. The Steelers, playing their starters and with a lot at stake, have a slight advantage. Rudolph’s ability to connect with his key receivers and the Steelers’ defensive strength could be decisive.