Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens: Battle of the Bullies
In a contest that can be described as "The Battle of the Bullies", AFC North rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens collide this Saturday in pursuit of the AFC crown.
Such a bitter rivalry matching two teams known for being very physical, hard-hitting and with a thirst for inflicting pain on their opponents promises to be a hard-fought and intense battle.
The Ravens defense, ranked 5th in rushing yds allowing only 94 rushing yds per game, and 3rd in points allowed (17), have forced 14 turnovers in their last 3 games, 5 of which occurred during their wild-card victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.
In comparison, the Steelers defense is ranked 1st in rushing yds, allowing 63 yds per game, while ranking 1st in points allowed, at 14.5 points per game. This game will truly be an exhibition of two defensive Goliaths.
These teams have faced each other twice this season, with Baltimore winning the first meeting by a score of 17 to 14, and Pittsburgh winning the second meeting, 13 to 10. Two hard fought battles, each decided by 3 points.
The Ravens defense must contain Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers running-back, which they did effectively in both meetings this season. Mendenhall was held to 79 yds in the first meeting and 45 yds in the second.
It is vital that the Ravens put pressure on Ben Roethlisberger, keeping him in the pocket, and taking away his ability to extend plays with his feet. Roethlisberger, with the receivers he has at his disposal, can turn a failed play into a long gain if allowed to scramble outside the pocket.
The Steelers, in both meetings with the Ravens this season were effective in shutting down Ray Rice, Ravens running-back. Rice ran for 20 yds in the first meeting, and 32 yds in the second. Baltimore quarterback Joe Flacco and his receivers will try to open up the running game, by completing big pass plays, which they have proven capable.
If the Steelers contain Joe Flacco, and limit the production in the passing game, it will truly be a long day for the Ravens, yielding a victory for Pittsburgh.
This will be a rough, hard hitting and punishing contest, sending one of these Goliaths deeper into the playoffs, battered and bruised.
About The Author
A.J. Hunley enjoys writing and sharing his opinions and views related to the Cleveland Browns, along with other NFL teams. Joe can be followed on Twitter, and you can join him on his Facebook Fan Page-- Cleveland Browns Report
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