The rivalry between the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers has long been a showcase of NFL talent and fierce competition. Among the stories grabbing headlines this season is Lamar Jackson's quest to turn his fortunes around against the Steelers, with whom he holds a 1-3 record as a starting quarterback. His solitary victory against them came during the 2019 season, a high point he and his team hope to replicate in their upcoming matchup.
Jackson’s Struggles Against Pittsburgh
Jackson's performances against the Steelers have been challenging, characterized by four touchdown passes but also marred by seven interceptions. The misfortunes have left Jackson pondering the invisible hand of "football gods," as he put it, reflecting on last season's missed opportunities: "I don't know what it is, man. 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, [and] I'm looking forward to the game." The Ravens' star quarterback is certainly looking to reverse his fortunes this year, considering the changes in team dynamics and strategy.
A Formidable Opponent
Pittsburgh's defense, a perennial powerhouse, continues to be a tough nut to crack. This season, they boast the second fewest points allowed in the league, complementing their strong records in rushing defense and red zone efficiency, both crucial areas that can curtail Jackson's explosiveness on the field. The Steelers' defense is a different entity this year, equipped with former Ravens players like DeShon Elliott and Patrick Queen, adding layers of intrigue and complexity to an already storied rivalry.
Patrick Queen poignantly reflected on his transition to the Steelers, expressing the bittersweet nature of moving teams: "I didn't get the offer back, and it is definitely kind of upsetting being there for four years and the bond that you grow with your teammates and stuff. The first few months, you definitely go through those feelings. Now after playing games, you just go by and just want to win games. You want to win with your teammates, your new teammates; you want to bond with those guys."
Jackson’s MVP Campaign
Despite the challenges that the Steelers present, Jackson is having an MVP-caliber season. His partnership with Derrick Henry in the backfield is proving to be dynamic for Baltimore. The synergy between Jackson's remarkable agility and Henry's powerhouse runs is causing problems for defenses across the league. Their complementary skills have helped catapult Jackson to the forefront of the MVP conversation, and a decisive victory against Pittsburgh would undoubtedly bolster his candidacy.
The Road Ahead
"There were different guys last year, and it's a different unit this year, but it's always the same goal; we want to win. We want to be the ones that come out victorious, and that's going to be the goal going into this game," Jackson emphasized, showing his steely resolve. His leadership and performance will be crucial if the Ravens are to come out on top against a Steelers team that seems to tighten its defensive screws at every opportunity.
The Ravens-Steelers rivalry promises yet another chapter of intense competition, with both teams eager to assert dominance. For Jackson and the Ravens, overcoming the Pittsburgh defense could be the keystone for their season's ambitions. All eyes will be on whether the synergy of Jackson and Henry's dynamic on-field partnership can unlock the defensive fortress that is the Steelers and whether Jackson can finally tilt the narrative of this intense rivalry in favor of Baltimore.