In a closely contested matchup, the Baltimore Ravens suffered a narrow 26-24 defeat against the Pittsburgh Steelers on January 7, 2024, in Week 18 of the NFL season. The game showcased a mix of strong performances and critical errors, culminating in a missed field goal that sealed the Ravens’ fate.
Quarterback Performance Highlights
Lamar Jackson showed resilience throughout the game, particularly in the second half, where his performance became pivotal. He completed 11 of 18 passes for 238 yards and recorded three touchdowns, including impressive connections of 50 and 64 yards in the fourth quarter. Despite a rocky start, Jackson’s late-game execution kept the Ravens competitive, culminating in a crucial 26-yard pass to tight end Isaiah Likely that set up rookie kicker Tyler Loop’s missed 44-yard field goal attempt as time expired. Jackson’s overall play earned him an A grade.
Running Backs and Offensive Line Struggles
Derrick Henry led the Ravens’ ground game with 20 carries for 126 yards, averaging an effective 6.3 yards per carry. His notable 41-yard run was a highlight, but the team struggled to find reliable pass-blocking support. Backup running back Keaton Mitchell appeared fatigued at times, raising concerns about depth in the position. This unit received a B grade overall.
The offensive line managed to rush for a total of 137 yards but faced significant challenges as the game progressed, particularly in pass protection. Jackson’s ability to evade pressure masked some deficiencies, yet the line allowed three sacks and five quarterback hits. The overall performance produced a C+ grade.
Receiving Corps and Defensive Challenges
Wide receiver Zay Flowers was a standout performer, registering four receptions for 138 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to make big plays. However, the defensive alignment on the 50-yard touchdown pass raised eyebrows, prompting questions about the coverage assignments. The receiving corps received a C grade, as the rest of the unit provided limited impact.
On defense, the Ravens struggled to contain the Steelers’ running game, with Pittsburgh finishing with 390 total yards. The defensive line could not generate sufficient pressure, leading to a C grade for this group. Middle linebacker Roquan Smith recorded only three tackles, while the overall linebacker performance was marred by fatigue in the second half. The secondary continued to struggle with tackling, allowing quarterback Aaron Rodgers to complete 31 of 47 passes for 294 yards and a touchdown, resulting in a disappointing D grade for this unit.
Special Teams and Coaching Insights
Special teams had mixed results. Tyler Loop, who replaced the legendary Justin Tucker, experienced a significant moment of pressure with his missed field goal attempt. Despite this setback, he had a solid season overall. Punter Jordan Stout averaged 47.8 yards per punt, providing valuable field position in the first half. The special teams unit earned a B grade.
Coaching decisions came under scrutiny, particularly concerning the offensive line’s inability to provide consistent pass protection. While Jackson’s dynamic playmaking kept the offense alive, the defense’s lapses, especially highlighted by the final touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III, pointed to a need for adjustments. The coaching staff received a C grade as the Ravens look to address these issues moving forward.
Overall, the Ravens’ performance against the Steelers underscored both individual brilliance and collective shortcomings. As they prepare for the postseason, addressing these concerns will be crucial for their success in upcoming games.
