The Pittsburgh Steelers emerged victorious against the Baltimore Ravens with a final score of 26-24, securing the AFC North title in a tightly contested matchup. The game, which shifted from a defensive struggle to a high-scoring affair in the fourth quarter, showcased both teams” determination and skill.
As the clock wound down, Ravens kicker Tyler Loop missed a crucial 44-yard field goal attempt that could have clinched the game for Baltimore. Earlier, Steelers kicker Chris Boswell had missed his first extra point in over two seasons, leaving Pittsburgh with a precarious two-point lead in the final moments.
With just 14 seconds remaining, Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson connected with Isaiah Likely on a fourth down, putting Baltimore in position for a potential game-winning kick. The Steelers had briefly regained the lead earlier in the quarter when Aaron Rodgers threw a touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III, but the missed extra point kept the game within reach for the Ravens.
The Steelers” defense managed to slow down the Ravens” running game after allowing a notable 79 yards from Derrick Henry in the first quarter. However, Jackson proved to be a threat, connecting with wide receiver Zay Flowers for two significant touchdowns of 50 and 64 yards in the fourth quarter.
Despite the loss, the Ravens face an offseason filled with uncertainty. The missed field goal by Loop marked a disappointing end to a season that saw them transition from preseason Super Bowl favorites to missing the playoffs for the first time since 2021. Coach John Harbaugh“s future is in question, along with that of Jackson, whose salary cap hit is set to soar next season.
In terms of standout performances, Flowers scored his first go-ahead touchdown since Week 14, marking a significant turn in his season after a lengthy drought. His fourth-quarter touchdown reception from Jackson was the longest time to throw for any touchdown pass by Jackson this season, at 5.37 seconds.
On the Steelers” side, Rodgers had a mixed performance, completing 31 of 47 passes for 294 yards. While he displayed moments of brilliance, including a key scramble that converted a third-and-long, he also encountered setbacks, such as missing open receivers and taking a critical sack.
Looking ahead, the Steelers will face the Houston Texans in their next game, while the Ravens will have to navigate a challenging offseason as they reassess their roster and coaching staff.
In the aftermath of the game, Jackson expressed his frustration, stating, “We did all that to come up short. devastating. furious. all types of . I don”t know, I”m everywhere with it right now.”
Steelers defensive captain Cameron Heyward remarked on the razor-thin margin between victory and defeat, saying, “I”m not going to ask questions. The good Lord made a good decision tonight. I”m thankful and we keep moving on.”
