The Baltimore Ravens orchestrated a dominant ground-and-pound performance to secure their first playoff victory, dismantling the Pittsburgh Steelers 28-14. Their offensive strategy revolved around a relentless rushing attack, accumulating nearly 300 yards on the ground and controlling the tempo throughout the game. Derrick Henry spearheaded the Ravens’ rushing onslaught, amassing 186 yards on 26 carries, including two touchdowns. Lamar Jackson complemented Henry’s power with his own dynamic running ability, contributing 81 yards on the ground while also effectively managing the passing game, completing 16 of 21 passes for 175 yards and a touchdown. This dual-threat approach kept the Steelers defense constantly off balance and unable to contain the Ravens’ offensive firepower.
The Ravens established their dominance early, marching down the field on their opening possession for a 95-yard touchdown drive, culminating in a 15-yard pass from Jackson to Rashod Bateman. Their commitment to the run was evident throughout the first half, exemplified by a 13-play drive consisting entirely of running plays, resulting in Henry’s first touchdown. With just seconds remaining in the half, Jackson showcased his elusiveness, evading pressure to find Justice Hill for another touchdown, extending the Ravens’ lead to 21-0 and surpassing 300 yards of total offense. The Ravens’ first-half dominance was stark, reflected in a lopsided 19-2 advantage in first downs.
Despite facing a daunting deficit, the Steelers showed signs of life in the second half. Starting from their own 2-yard line, quarterback Russell Wilson connected on three crucial third-down conversions, keeping the drive alive and culminating in a 30-yard touchdown pass to Van Jefferson. However, the Ravens swiftly responded with Henry’s explosive 44-yard touchdown run, re-establishing their comfortable lead. Wilson managed to connect with George Pickens for another touchdown, narrowing the gap once more, but the Steelers’ comeback efforts ultimately fell short.
Although the Ravens’ offensive production slowed in the second half, the Steelers were unable to capitalize. Their attempts to mount a late-game comeback were thwarted by a turnover on downs midway through the fourth quarter, effectively sealing their fate. The Ravens’ defense, though tested at times, proved resilient enough to prevent a significant Steelers resurgence. Pickens’ touchdown reception in the third quarter would be the final score of the game, solidifying the Ravens’ victory.
The Ravens’ comprehensive win showcased their commitment to a physical, run-oriented offense, effectively neutralizing the Steelers’ defense and controlling the tempo of the game. Henry’s powerful running, combined with Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities, proved too much for the Steelers to handle. While the Steelers showed glimpses of offensive potential, their inability to consistently move the ball and their defensive struggles against the Ravens’ rushing attack ultimately led to their defeat. The Ravens’ victory sets the stage for their next playoff challenge, likely against the Buffalo Bills unless a surprising upset by the Denver Broncos alters their path to face the Houston Texans.
This resounding victory underscores the Ravens’ identity as a run-first team, a strategy that has proven highly effective in the playoffs. Their ability to dominate the line of scrimmage and control the clock limited the Steelers’ offensive opportunities. While the Steelers managed to score two touchdowns, their overall offensive performance was hampered by the Ravens’ defensive pressure and their own inability to establish a consistent running game. The Ravens’ balanced offensive attack, coupled with their stout defense, positions them as a formidable contender in the AFC playoffs. Their next opponent, whether the Bills or the Texans, will face a significant challenge in containing the Ravens’ potent rushing attack and overall offensive firepower.
