Steelers vs Baltimore Ravens Match Player Stats Breakdown

Steelers vs Baltimore Ravens Match Player Stats Breakdown

The Steelers vs Baltimore Ravens matchup delivered everything fans expected from an AFC North rivalry game. Both teams brought intensity and physical play. The game featured elite defensive performances and clutch offensive moments. Player statistics revealed just how competitive this battle truly was.

Every possession mattered in this contest. The Steelers executed better in critical situations. Their defense dominated key moments. Special teams made the difference when it counted most. This breakdown examines the individual player performances that shaped the outcome.

Quarterback Performances That Defined the Match

Kenny Pickett showed remarkable growth and maturity in this game. He managed the pocket with confidence. His decision-making improved dramatically from earlier in the season. Pickett completed 23 of 34 passes for a total of 254 yards. He threw 2 touchdowns and had only 1 interception. His completion percentage of 67.6% demonstrated excellent accuracy.

The young quarterback avoided forcing passes into tight coverage. He checked down when necessary. His timing with receivers looked sharp throughout the game. Pickett’s ability to read defenses improved significantly. He audibled out of bad plays multiple times. His poise under pressure stood out in crucial moments.

The game-winning drive showcased Pickett’s best qualities. He made smart throws on third downs. He kept the chains moving with short, efficient passes. His leadership in the final minutes proved he can win close games. This performance will boost his confidence moving forward.

Lamar Jackson displayed his unique dual-threat abilities once again. He threw for 240 passing yards and added 64 rushing yards on the ground. Jackson completed 1 touchdown pass but threw 1 costly interception. His mobility created problems for Pittsburgh’s defense all night. He extended plays with his legs when receivers were covered.

Running Backs: Power and Precision on Display

Najee Harris ran with power and determination for Pittsburgh. He carried the ball 18 times for 92 yards. Harris scored 1 rushing touchdown that proved crucial. His physical running style wore down the Ravens’ defense. He broke tackles consistently throughout the game. Harris gained yards after contact on nearly every carry.

His ability to run between the tackles controlled the clock. The Steelers leaned on Harris in short-yardage situations. He converted multiple third-and-short opportunities. His pass protection also deserves recognition. Harris picked up blitzes and gave Pickett time to throw. This complete performance showed why he’s Pittsburgh’s offensive centerpiece.

The running game kept Baltimore’s defense honest. Harris’s presence opened up play-action opportunities. His 5.1 yards per carry average kept the offense balanced. The Steelers’ commitment to the run helped them win the time of possession battle.

Gus Edwards provided solid production for the Ravens’ ground game. He rushed for 76 yards on multiple carries. Edwards ran hard and fell forward on contact. His physical style matched the intensity of the game. He helped Baltimore maintain some offensive balance.

Wide Receiver Highlights and Key Contributions

George Pickens absolutely dominated this matchup from start to finish. He caught 7 passes for 118 yards and 1 touchdown. Pickens won battles against tight coverage repeatedly. His size and athleticism created mismatches all game. He made contested catches look routine. His touchdown grab showed incredible body control.

Pickens’s ability to gain yards after the catch extended drives. He broke tackles and fought for extra yards. His chemistry with Pickett continues to grow. The second-year receiver is becoming a true number one option. His performance in this rivalry game announced his arrival as an elite talent.

The Ravens had no answer for Pickens in single coverage. When they doubled him, other receivers got open. His presence opened up the entire offense. This breakout performance will be remembered as a turning point in his career.

Diontae Johnson provided reliable production in his complementary role. He caught 5 passes for 54 yards. Johnson excelled on third-down conversions. His route running created separation underneath. He moved the chains multiple times with precise routes. Johnson’s reliability gave Pickett a safety valve.

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His ability to work the middle of the field kept drives alive. Johnson ran crisp routes that found soft spots in zone coverage. He caught everything thrown his way. His veteran presence helped the younger receivers. This steady performance exemplified his value to the offense.

Offensive Line Performance and Protection Stats

The Steelers’ offensive line delivered an outstanding performance in protection. They allowed only 2 sacks all game. This gave Pickett time to survey the field and make reads. The line created clean pockets consistently. Their pass protection discipline was excellent throughout.

Key Protection Stats:

  • Sacks Allowed: 2
  • QB Hits: 4
  • Hurries: 6
  • Pass Block Win Rate: 68%

The communication upfront looked sharp all night. Guards pulled effectively on running plays. The tackles handled speed rushers well. This cohesive performance allowed the offense to function smoothly. The line won battles at the point of attack.

Run blocking opened lanes for Harris to exploit. The line created movement at the line of scrimmage. Double teams on the interior freed Harris for big gains. This complete performance showed the unit’s growth this season.

The Ravens’ offensive line struggled to contain Pittsburgh’s pass rush. They allowed 4 sacks and 9 quarterback pressures. This constant pressure disrupted Jackson’s timing. The line couldn’t handle stunts and twists effectively. Communication breakdowns led to free rushers multiple times.

Ravens Protection Breakdown:

  • Sacks Allowed: 4
  • QB Hits: 7
  • Hurries: 9
  • Pass Block Win Rate: 52%

The interior line got pushed back too often. Guards struggled with power rushes from Pittsburgh’s defensive tackles. The tackles couldn’t handle speed-to-power moves consistently. These protection issues changed the game’s complexion dramatically.

Jackson’s scrambling covered up some protection breakdowns. The line did better in run blocking than pass protection. However, the inability to keep a clean pocket doomed several drives. This performance difference between the two lines proved decisive.

Steel Curtain: Defensive Standouts for Pittsburgh

T.J. Watt absolutely dominated this game from his edge position. He recorded 2.5 sacks that completely disrupted Baltimore’s offense. Watt added 5 tackles for loss that killed multiple drives. He forced 1 fumble that changed momentum dramatically. His motor never stopped from start to finish.

Watt’s speed rush overwhelmed Ravens’ tackles repeatedly. He converted speed to power effectively. His hand usage was exceptional all game. Watt set the edge perfectly against the run. He made plays sideline to sideline with elite pursuit. This performance reminded everyone why he’s an elite defensive player.

The former Defensive Player of the Year impacted every phase. He dropped into coverage effectively when asked. Watt’s presence affected Jackson’s decision-making. Baltimore had to game-plan around him constantly. This dominant display cemented his legacy in this rivalry.

Minkah Fitzpatrick controlled the deep part of the field brilliantly. He made 7 tackles from his safety position. Fitzpatrick recorded 1 interception that shifted momentum completely. His range allowed him to cover massive amounts of space. He diagnosed plays quickly and filled gaps fast.

Fitzpatrick’s ball skills continue to impress year after year. He positioned himself perfectly to make the interception. His tackling in the open field prevented big plays. Fitzpatrick communicated coverages effectively to the secondary. This All-Pro performance showcased his complete skill set.

Ravens’ Defensive Resistance and Grit

Roquan Smith led Baltimore’s defense with heart and determination. He recorded 12 tackles from his linebacker position. Smith forced 1 fumble that gave Baltimore a chance. His speed allowed him to make plays sideline to sideline. He diagnosed plays quickly and attacked downhill.

Smith’s tackling technique remained sound throughout the game. He shed blocks effectively and made stops. His leadership kept the defense fighting until the end. Smith called out adjustments and lined up teammates. This complete performance showed his value as a defensive captain.

The linebacker made several key stops on third down. He covered running backs out of the backfield well. Smith’s instincts allowed him to be around the ball constantly. Despite the loss, he proved why he’s an elite linebacker.

Kyle Hamilton showed versatility from his safety position all night. He defended passes effectively in coverage. Hamilton made tackles in the box against the run. He tried to stop big plays with excellent positioning. His range allowed him to cover a lot of ground.

Special Teams: Hidden Stats with Huge Impact

Chris Boswell proved clutch for Pittsburgh’s special teams unit. He connected on all 3 field goal attempts. One kick sailed through from 49 yards out. Boswell’s reliability in pressure situations shined through. His kickoffs consistently pinned Baltimore deep. This veteran kicker never shows nerves in big moments.

Boswell’s Kicking Stats:

  • Field Goals Made: 3/3
  • Longest Field Goal: 49 yards
  • Touchback Percentage: 75%
  • Points Scored: 9
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Every point mattered in this close contest. Boswell delivered when called upon repeatedly. His consistency gives the Steelers confidence in close games. The offense knows they can settle for field goals when needed. This performance continued his excellent season.

Justin Tucker surprisingly missed a crucial kick for Baltimore. His 51-yard field goal attempt sailed wide left. This marked Tucker’s first miss of the season. The miss changed momentum dramatically late in the game. Tucker’s usually automatic leg failed at a critical moment.

Tucker’s Kicking Performance:

  • Field Goals Made: 2/3
  • Missed Field Goal: 51 yards
  • Extra Points: 1/1
  • Points Scored: 7

Tucker remains one of the league’s best kickers historically. However, this miss proved costly in a tight game. The momentum shift affected Baltimore’s confidence. Pittsburgh capitalized on this rare Tucker mistake. Even the best players have off days sometimes.

The punting battle favored Pittsburgh significantly throughout. Better hang time gave coverage units more time. Punts pinned Baltimore deep in their territory repeatedly. Field position became a hidden advantage for the Steelers. Good punting set up the defense for success.

Coverage units tackled well and prevented big returns. Neither team broke a return for major yardage. Special teams’ consistency helped Pittsburgh control field position. These hidden stats often decide close games. The Steelers won the field position battle decisively.

Crucial Turnovers and Game-Changing Plays

The Steelers forced 2 turnovers that completely changed the game. One came on a Lamar Jackson interception in the third quarter. The other was a late fumble that sealed the victory. Pittsburgh’s defense created pressure that led to mistakes. These takeaways shifted momentum dramatically.

Turnover Battle:

TeamInterceptionsFumbles LostTotal Turnovers
Steelers112
Ravens101

Fitzpatrick’s interception gave Pittsburgh excellent field position. The defense capitalized on short fields effectively. Creating turnovers remains the mark of championship defenses. The Steelers’ ability to force mistakes proved decisive. These game-changing plays swung momentum completely.

The Ravens couldn’t capitalize on Pickett’s interception unfortunately. Their offense went three-and-out after the turnover. This missed opportunity haunted Baltimore late in the game. Great defenses create turnovers but offenses must score. The Ravens’ inability to convert cost them dearly.

Turnover conversion separated these two teams significantly. Pittsburgh scored 10 points off Baltimore’s turnovers. The Ravens scored 0 points from their takeaway. This efficiency in capitalizing on mistakes wins football games. Championship teams always convert turnovers into points.

The fumble recovery late sealed Pittsburgh’s victory conclusively. Baltimore had driven into Steelers’ territory threatening to score. The strip-sack ended their hopes immediately. These momentum-swinging plays define rivalry games. The Steelers made plays when it mattered most.

Third-Down Efficiency and Drive Sustainability

Pittsburgh converted 53% of third downs in this crucial matchup. They converted 8 of 15 attempts to keep drives alive. This efficiency allowed them to control time of possession. The Steelers stayed on the field and wore down Baltimore’s defense. Third-down success directly correlates with winning football games.

Third Down Comparison:

  • Steelers: 8/15 (53%)
  • Ravens: 5/14 (36%)
  • Difference: +17% conversion rate

Pickett excelled in third-down situations with smart decisions. He took checkdowns when nothing developed downfield. Short passes to Johnson moved the chains repeatedly. The offense used screens and quick passes effectively. This patient approach kept drives moving forward.

Baltimore converted only 36% of third downs throughout the game. They converted just 5 of 14 attempts on money downs. This inefficiency led to short possessions repeatedly. The Ravens’ offense couldn’t sustain drives consistently. Punting too often put their defense in difficult positions.

Jackson faced pressure on third downs more than usual. The Steelers’ defense disguised coverages effectively on money downs. Baltimore’s play-calling became predictable in these situations. The inability to convert third downs doomed several promising drives. This efficiency gap proved insurmountable.

The time of possession battle heavily favored Pittsburgh as expected. They held the ball for 34 minutes and 12 seconds. Baltimore possessed the ball for only 25 minutes and 48 seconds. This difference wore down the Ravens’ defense significantly. Controlling the clock remains a winning formula.

Red Zone Execution and Play Calling

The Steelers scored on 3 of 4 red zone trips in this game. They scored 75% of the time inside the 20-yard line. Pittsburgh remained aggressive with their play-calling inside the red zone. They mixed runs and passes effectively near the goal line. This efficiency turned red zone opportunities into touchdowns.

Red Zone Performance:

TeamTripsTDsFGsSuccess Rate
Steelers42175%
Ravens31167%

Creative play-calling helped Pittsburgh score touchdowns instead of field goals. They used play-action effectively in tight quarters. Quick passes to the flat moved the ball. The offense showed patience and executed well. Red zone success often determines close game outcomes.

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The Ravens reached the red zone three times during the contest. However, they struggled to finish drives with touchdowns. Poor play-calling and execution cost Baltimore crucial points. They settled for field goals when touchdowns were needed. This red zone inefficiency proved extremely costly.

Baltimore’s conservative approach inside the 20 limited their scoring potential. They didn’t attack aggressively enough near the goal line. The play-calling became predictable for Pittsburgh’s defense. Missing opportunities in the red zone haunts teams in close games. The Ravens left points on the field repeatedly.

Red zone defense also played a key role in this matchup. Both teams made stops when their backs were against the wall. However, Pittsburgh’s offense executed better in these high-pressure situations. The ability to score touchdowns instead of field goals made the difference. This efficiency gap ultimately decided the game’s outcome.

Game-Winning Drive Breakdown

The Steelers orchestrated a masterful 12-play drive to win the game. The drive covered 78 yards in crucial time. Pittsburgh used 6 minutes and 42 seconds on this possession. They converted 3 third downs to keep the drive alive. This championship-level execution sealed the victory convincingly.

Drive Composition:

  • Total Plays: 12
  • Yards Gained: 78
  • Time Consumed: 6:42
  • Third Downs Converted: 3/3
  • Result: Touchdown

Pickett showed incredible poise under immense pressure throughout. He completed 8 of 10 passes on the winning drive. Short passes kept the chains moving consistently. Harris added key runs that forced Baltimore to use timeouts. The offense executed the two-minute drill perfectly.

Key plays defined this championship-caliber drive completely:

  • 15-yard completion to Johnson on third-and-7
  • 22-yard run by Harris on second-and-5
  • 18-yard touchdown to Pickens in the corner

Each play moved Pittsburgh closer to victory. The offensive line gave Pickett time to throw. Receivers won their matchups when needed most. The drive showcased everything that makes Pittsburgh dangerous. This execution under pressure defines championship teams.

The touchdown to Pickens capped the perfect drive beautifully. Pickett placed the ball where only his receiver could catch it. Pickens made an incredible grab in tight coverage. The score gave Pittsburgh a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. This moment will be replayed for years in Pittsburgh.

Full Team Player Stats Table

Player NameTeamPositionKey Statistics
Kenny PickettSteelersQB254 YDs, 2 TDs, 1 INT, 67.6% Comp
Lamar JacksonRavensQB240 YDs, 1 TD, 1 INT, 64 Rush YDs
Najee HarrisSteelersRB92 Rush YDs, 1 TD, 18 Carries
Gus EdwardsRavensRB76 Rush YDs, 15 Carries
George PickensSteelersWR118 YDs, 1 TD, 7 Receptions
Diontae JohnsonSteelersWR54 YDs, 5 Receptions
Zay FlowersRavensWR84 YDs, 6 Receptions
T.J. WattSteelersLB2.5 Sacks, 5 TFL, 1 FF
Minkah FitzpatrickSteelersS7 Tackles, 1 INT
Roquan SmithRavensLB12 Tackles, 1 FF
Kyle HamiltonRavensS8 Tackles, 2 PD
Chris BoswellSteelersK3/3 FG, Long: 49 YDs
Justin TuckerRavensK2/3 FG, 1 Miss from 51

Key Takeaways from the Match

Kenny Pickett demonstrated significant growth as a young quarterback. He led the team under intense pressure situations. His decision-making improved dramatically from earlier performances. Pickett made smart throws and avoided costly mistakes. The game-winning drive showcased his development perfectly. He’s proving he can lead this team to victory.

T.J. Watt remains the game-changer for Pittsburgh’s defense consistently. He dominated the line of scrimmage from start to finish. Watt made huge plays that completely changed momentum. His relentless motor sets the tone for the entire defense. Baltimore had no answer for his pass-rushing skills. This performance reminded everyone of his elite status.

The Ravens failed in crucial moments throughout the entire contest. Missed red zone opportunities cost them valuable points. The Justin Tucker miss proved uncharacteristically costly. Small mistakes added up and changed the game completely. Baltimore’s inability to execute when it mattered most haunted them. They left too many points on the field.

Third-down efficiency proved decisive in determining the winner clearly. Pittsburgh’s ability to convert kept drives alive consistently. Baltimore’s struggles on money downs killed promising possessions. This statistical difference directly correlates with the final outcome. Championship teams always win the third-down battle decisively.

Steelers Prevail in a Classic AFC North Showdown

The Steelers vs Baltimore Ravens match proved why this rivalry ranks among the NFL’s best. Both teams brought intensity and physical play throughout. The game featured everything fans expect from AFC North football. Hard hits, great defense, and clutch plays defined this matchup. Neither team gave an inch without a fight.

Pittsburgh earned this victory through superior execution in key moments. Their young players stepped up when it mattered most. The defense controlled the final minutes perfectly. Special teams made crucial plays that shifted momentum. This complete team effort delivered a statement win.

Baltimore showed heart and determination despite coming up short ultimately. Their defense fought until the final whistle blew. Individual players made spectacular plays throughout the game. However, small mistakes and missed opportunities proved costly. The Ravens will learn from this tough loss.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Who was the standout player for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the game?

T.J. Watt dominated with 2.5 sacks, 5 tackles for loss, and a game-changing forced fumble.

How did Kenny Pickett perform in the match?

He threw for 254 yards and 2 touchdowns while leading the game-winning drive with poise and precision.

What was the key difference in third-down conversions between the two teams?

The Steelers converted 53% of third downs while the Ravens only managed 36%, controlling possession time significantly.

How did special teams impact the outcome of the game?

Chris Boswell made all field goals while Justin Tucker missed a 51-yarder, shifting momentum and costing Baltimore crucial points.

What was the final score of the game?

The document doesn’t specify the exact final score, but Pittsburgh won by executing better in critical moments.

Conclusion

The Steelers vs Baltimore Ravens player stats breakdown reveals exactly why Pittsburgh emerged victorious. Superior third-down efficiency kept drives alive consistently. Better red zone execution turned opportunities into touchdowns. The offensive line’s protection allowed Pickett to operate comfortably. These factors combined to deliver a crucial division win.

T.J. Watt’s dominance and Kenny Pickett’s growth powered Pittsburgh’s success. The defense created turnovers and capitalized on short fields. Special teams made the crucial plays when needed most. Every phase of the game contributed to this hard-fought victory.

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