Pittsburgh Steelers Visit Baltimore Ravens In a Battle For AFC North Supremacy
It’s Ravens week. Usually, that phrase alone is enough to get the blood pumping in Western Pennsylvania. It evokes images of bone-crushing hits, defensive struggles, and games decided by a field goal in the mud. But let’s be honest: the vibes around the Steelers right now? They’re weird. They’re tense. And quite frankly, they’re a little scary.
We are looking at a 6-6 team that has forgotten how to win, dropping five of their last seven games. And when you head into M&T Bank Stadium with that kind of baggage, things can get ugly fast.
Is This the End Of the Mike Tomlin Era?
I hate to even type it, but the noise is getting too loud to ignore. We aren’t just talking about playoff positioning here; we might be watching a referendum on Mike Tomlin’s job. Albert Breer over at SI dropped a truth bomb this week that’s got everyone sweating: this feels like a tipping point.
If the Steelers go into Baltimore and get blown out? If they look unprepared against a bitter rival? That Monday night game against the Dolphins suddenly stops being a football game and starts looking like a farewell tour. The fanbase is restless. Losing streaks happen, but this team feels like it’s sleepwalking toward a cliff.
Aaron Rodgers Is Back In the Saddle
If there is a glimmer of hope in the Steel City, it comes in the form of a 41-year-old with a bad wrist. Aaron Rodgers was a full participant in practice on Thursday, shedding the non-participant tag that had everyone panicking earlier in the week.
Rodgers has been decent in his first year with the Steelers, 19 touchdowns and over 2,000 yards isn’t nothing, but he needs to be Superman this Sunday. With weapons like DK Metcalf and Jaylen Warren, there are no excuses for the offense to stall out. Rodgers played with a cast last time, and he’s going to have to grit his teeth again. The team needs vintage Rodgers, not just “manage the game” Rodgers, if they want to save this season.
Of Course, Lamar Jackson Is Playing
Because nothing in the AFC North comes easy, the Steelers won’t be catching a break on the other sideline. Despite missing practice with an ankle issue, Lamar Jackson is back and “on track” to start.
OC Todd Monken praised Jackson’s toughness, but Steelers fans are probably rolling their eyes. It feels like destiny that the two-time MVP would heal up just in time to try and ruin Pittsburgh’s weekend. Jackson hasn’t had his best year, but he’s still Lamar Jackson. If the defense can’t contain him, it won’t matter how much Rodgers practices.
This Sunday isn’t just a game. It’s a statement. The Steelers are fighting for their playoff lives, and maybe even their coach’s future. Buckle up.
