Baltimore Ravens: Can They Win at Pittsburgh in Week 13?

The Baltimore Ravens (8-3) have one of their biggest games of the season coming up in Week 13. It’s the first time they’re favored to win on the road against the Pittsburgh Steelers with Ben Roethlisberger at quarterback.

Do you agree with the NFL betting lines this week? Can the Ravens win at Pittsburgh?

Let’s find out.

Baltimore Ravens: Top Seed in the AFC

The Baltimore Ravens now hold the top seed in the AFC playoff picture. They are also three games ahead of the Steelers in the AFC North.

The current line for Baltimore -4.5 has already come up a bit, while the money line now resides at -200.

Last week, the Ravens won at home against the Cleveland Browns, 16-10. Lamar Jackson threw four interceptions, and they were unable to get a rushing touchdown.

The Steelers, however, got destroyed on the road against the Cincinnati Bengals, 41-10. The Bengals led 31-3 at halftime and piled up nearly 200 rushing yards against the Steelers.

Unfortunately for Pittsburgh, the Ravens have one of the best rushing offenses in the NFL.

Ravens Need to Commit to the Run at Pittsburgh This Week

Averaging nearly 151 rushing yards per game, Baltimore is ranked 2nd for their ground attack. Last week at home, Jackson had 17 carries for 68 yards.

Devonta Freeman had 52 yards on 16 carries. It was not a successful game overall for the Ravens, but they will be playing a weak team against the run.

Pittsburgh’s rushing defense ranks 28th in the NFL in yards allowed per game, while Baltimore’s is ranked 2nd.

The Steelers have allowed 195 rushing yards per game in their last three contests.

So, they will need to commit to the run this week. Smash-mouth football should be expected in Pittsburgh.

The Ravens and Steelers are ranked about the same for their passing offense. How about their passing defense?

Baltimore is Vulnerable Through the Air

When it comes to passing defense, Baltimore is ranked last in the NFL. Pittsburgh is currently sitting in the 12th spot.

So far this season, the Ravens have allowed nearly 276 passing yards per game and have given up almost 22 points in each of their 11 matchups.

The Steelers have averaged 20 points through 11 games, while the Ravens have averaged nearly 24.

So, a final score of 24-20 is entirely possible with the Ravens coming out on top. It will be imperative for Baltimore to keep Pittsburgh out of the end zone, especially through the air.

The Ravens Could Win Big This Week

If last week was any indication, the Ravens should protect their passing defense by running the ball. To win at Pittsburgh against Roethlisberger, they’ll need to keep him off the field as much as possible.

Jackson should take his time on offense. Let the play clock move and allow the offensive line to get the upper hand. This will give some space to Freeman and Latavius Murray.

If the Steelers stack the box against the run and Jackson breaks to the outside, I could see him running for a big score that determines the fate of this contest.

What do you think? Can the Baltimore Ravens win on the road at Pittsburgh in Week 13?

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