Another AFC North showdown with playoff implications written all over it with the Ravens and Steelers. Both teams enter with the same record, and both are coming off losses that exposed some glaring issues. That means this matchup should be physical, desperate, and fantasy-relevant in all the chaotic ways these divisional games tend to be.
Here’s your full fantasy outlook for Steelers vs. Ravens.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS — START ’EM
Start: Aaron Rodgers, QB
The Steelers’ offense has been unpredictable all year, and the George Pickens trade still makes absolutely zero sense, but Rodgers remains capable of exploiting the soft spots in Baltimore’s secondary. It’s been an up-and-down season, as expected, but this is the type of rivalry game where a veteran QB can find an edge. He’s a viable QB1/streamer this week.
Start: Jaylen Warren, RB
Warren continues to operate as the lead back in a split backfield, offering the safest balance of touches and explosiveness. His pass-catching role keeps his fantasy floor steady. Solid RB2 value here.
Flex: Kenneth Gainwell, RB
Gainwell has been sneaky good, especially in the passing game. In fact, his impact through the air has been more significant than Warren’s lately. In PPR formats, he’s a strong flex with upside—particularly if this turns into a fast-paced divisional slugfest.
Can’t-Miss Play: Gainwell’s one-handed catch is made just inches above the grass via NFL.com
Flex: DK Metcalf, WR
At this point, Metcalf is playing strictly flex-level football. It often feels like the team has to force-feed him to make him fantasy relevant. Still, he’s too talented to fully sit, and the Steelers will need big plays to compete. Treat him as a boom-or-bust flex.
Sleeper: Darnell Washington, TE
Washington is a chain-moving machine, and if the Steelers ever decide to unleash him beyond short-yardage duties, he could pop in a big way. Deep-league managers looking for TE lottery tickets should keep him in mind.
BALTIMORE RAVENS — START ’EM
Start: Lamar Jackson, QB
No touchdowns last week, but 240+ passing yards and steady control of the offense. In rivalry games like this, anything can happen, and Jackson’s dual-threat nature always keeps his ceiling high. Fire him up as a QB1.
Start: Derrick Henry, RB
Henry is heating up at the perfect time. Fresh off 100 scrimmage yards and a score, he gets a Steelers defense that has struggled with powerful runners. Expect another heavy workload and similar production.
Start: Zay Flowers, WR
Still the clear WR1 in Baltimore, Flowers needs to reassert himself after a quieter stretch. This is a prime bounce-back opportunity for him, especially if the Ravens push the ball vertically early.
Flex: Isaiah Likely, TE
Likely blew up last week and reminded everyone what he can do when the offense flows through him. He needs more touches, period. Flex him with confidence until proven otherwise.
Isaiah Likely Suddenly Looking Like Legit Eagles Offseason Target – Nick Halden via Section 215
Flex: Mark Andrews, TE
Fresh off his extension, Andrews should be heavily worked into the game plan as the Ravens push toward a division title. Consider him a strong flex or low-end TE1 depending on league format.
SIT ’EM
Sit: DeAndre Hopkins, WR (Ravens)
Just not productive. Volume is inconsistent, efficiency is low, and the matchup doesn’t help. He’s a sit across most formats.
Sit: Steelers Defense
This unit gives up too many points, lacks consistency, and faces an offense that can punish even minor mistakes. Avoid them completely this week.
Final Takeaway
This rivalry game has all the ingredients: urgency, equal records, physical play, and explosive fantasy potential. Expect the Steelers to lean on Rodgers’ experience and their dual-back approach, while the Ravens try to control the tempo with Henry and quick-strike passing from Jackson.
In a game that could swing the AFC North standings, fantasy managers should prepare for volatility, but also plenty of opportunity.
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