Lamar Jackson’s frequent difficulties against the Pittsburgh Steelers have left fans eager for a turnaround, and he’ll finally have a substantial home crowd behind him to offer support.
This weekend’s game against the Steelers is only the second time the Baltimore Ravens quarterback has faced Pittsburgh on home turf. The previous time, in 2020, the pandemic allowed just 4,345 spectators, limiting the home-field advantage considerably.
The Ravens can thwart the Steelers’ attempt to clinch the AFC North with a win, while they themselves strive to solidify their standing. Jackson, expressing enthusiasm about the home crowd, stated, “Just being in front of our crowd, Flock Nation, just being in the building, knowing it’s a rival game, knowing what’s at stake for us… the momentum from our crowd will just give us what we need — that extra boost.”
Jackson’s record against Pittsburgh stands at 1-4, an unusual statistic given his seven years in the league. His first victory over them was marred by five sacks and three interceptions, which only highlights the intensity of matches against this division rival.
Critically, Jackson’s passer rating against the Steelers has never surpassed 80.1. His statistics include five touchdowns and eight interceptions, performances primarily occurring away, where conditions are often challenging.
In his 2019 MVP season, Jackson sat out the home game against the Steelers, having already secured the No. 1 playoff seed. Similar situations arose last season and during injuries in 2021 and 2022, leaving the Ravens with no more excuses for this home matchup.
This season, Jackson is delivering an impressive performance with a passer rating of 120.7, having thrown 34 touchdowns against just three interceptions. His former teammate, Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen, commented on Jackson’s aggressive style as the season progresses, emphasizing his unyielding approach and ability to make formidable plays.
Historically, the Steelers have edged out the Ravens in critical moments, including a narrow 18-16 victory earlier this season where Baltimore’s mistakes proved costly. Missed field goals, fumbles, and an interception where Payton Wilson snatched the ball mid-pass emphasized the competitive nature of these encounters.
The Ravens’ persistent close calls with two-point conversions, including a notable 20-19 loss in Pittsburgh in 2021, display the fierce rivalry’s impact on divisional standings. Despite losing eight of their last nine games to Pittsburgh, Baltimore remains hopeful, citing previous instances where strategic decisions played a part in outcomes, such as resting key players.
Defensive back Marlon Humphrey highlighted the significance of this rivalry, acknowledging past skirmishes and the emotional weight it carries for players and fans. “It means a lot to me being here for a long time, and if you don’t understand, the message will be very clear as the week goes on,” Humphrey shared, underscoring the charged atmosphere surrounding the match.
With a passionate home crowd and significant stakes on the line, Lamar Jackson and the Ravens have the opportunity to alter the narrative against Pittsburgh, hoping to capitalize on this rare home-field advantage.
Source: Local10
