The anticipation is building as the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare to face off against the Baltimore Ravens at the M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD. Scheduled for 4:30 pm ET on Saturday, December 21, 2024, this game promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams are vying for supremacy in the AFC North, and with the Steelers currently leading the division, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Fans can catch all the action on FOX.
Season Record and Recent Form
The Steelers have been impressive this season, boasting a 10-4 record and sitting comfortably at the top of the AFC North. However, they are coming off a disappointing loss against the Philadelphia Eagles, where they fell 27-13. On the other hand, the Ravens, with a 9-5 record, are hot on their heels. They are fresh from a commanding victory over the New York Giants, winning 35-14. This clash is not just about bragging rights but could potentially decide the division leader.
Opening Odds at USA Sportsbooks
The betting odds are in, and the Ravens are favored by 6.5 points according to DraftKings, Bet365, and BetMGM. The over/under is set at 45 points, with BetMGM slightly higher at 45.5 points. This indicates a belief in the Ravens’ ability to capitalize on their home advantage and recent form.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens Preview and Analysis
The Steelers have been solid on the road, with a 5-3 away record. Their offense, led by QB Russell Wilson, has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled against the Eagles. Wilson completed 14 of 22 passes for 128 yards and a touchdown in their last outing. Najee Harris and Calvin Austin III have been key contributors, but the absence of George Pickens due to a hamstring injury could be a significant blow.
The Ravens, meanwhile, are thriving. Lamar Jackson has been electric, throwing for 290 yards and five touchdowns against the Giants. Derrick Henry and Rashod Bateman have been pivotal, with Bateman grabbing two touchdowns in their last game. Baltimore’s defense, spearheaded by Kyle Hamilton and Kyle Van Noy, has been formidable, and they will look to stifle the Steelers’ offensive efforts.
Steelers vs. Ravens Prediction
With the division title on the line, this matchup promises to be fiercely contested. The Ravens are just a game behind the Steelers and have the chance to avenge their earlier loss this season. Baltimore’s offense has been one of the league’s best, and with home-field advantage, they are poised to challenge the Steelers. The prediction leans towards a Ravens victory, potentially covering the spread. Our NFL pick for Saturday is Ravens 31, Steelers 17.
NFL Betting Trends
When it comes to betting trends, the Steelers have struggled against good offensive teams, with a 3-11 record against teams scoring 24 or more points per game. They also tend to perform under the total in games with a line between 42.5 and 49 points. The Ravens, conversely, have excelled in these situations, boasting a 14-3 ATS record against high-scoring teams. They also have a strong record when playing as favorites, both in full games and the first half.
Key Injuries
Injuries could play a crucial role in this matchup. The Steelers are dealing with several key players out or questionable, including George Pickens and Larry Ogunjobi. The Ravens also have concerns, with Rashod Bateman and Kyle Van Noy listed as injured. These absences could impact the dynamics on both sides of the ball.
Notable Quotes
Steelers’ head coach Mike Tomlin, reflecting on their recent loss, stated, “Not as I stand here today. We had a game to play today. We wanted to win it and we didn’t. Some of that other stuff is less relevant to us.” Meanwhile, Ravens’ coach John Harbaugh praised his team’s focus, saying, “All around he had a great game. He’s been locked in all season, all week. He’s on the guys in meetings, walk-throughs, everything. He’s keeping it about football and getting the football right.”
Statistical Leaders and Starting Lineups
For the Steelers, Russell Wilson leads in passing yards with 1912, while Najee Harris has rushed for 891 yards. George Pickens, despite his injury, remains their top receiver with 850 yards. The Ravens’ Lamar Jackson has thrown for 3580 yards, with Derrick Henry rushing for 1474 yards and leading the team with 15 touchdowns. Zay Flowers is their leading receiver with 916 yards.
As the game approaches, both teams are set to field strong lineups. For the Steelers, Russell Wilson will start at QB, with Najee Harris in the backfield. The Ravens will rely on Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry to spearhead their offensive efforts.
This clash promises to be a highlight of the NFL weekend, with both teams eager to assert their dominance in the AFC North. Don’t miss out on what promises to be an electrifying encounter!
