Rivalry Rekindled: Jackson Faces the Steel Curtain
In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, some matchups are defined not just by the teams that take to the field, but by the narratives that evolved over their history. This weekend, the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers meet again at Heinz Field, where Lamar Jackson aims to tip the scales in his favor against a team that has been a daunting opponent for him in past encounters.
Lamar Jackson, considered a strong contender for this season's MVP award, holds a challenging track record against the Steelers. With a record of 1-3, Jackson's sole victory over Pittsburgh came during the 2019 season, a testament to the tough battles he’s faced against a ferocious Steelers defense.
In matchups with Pittsburgh, Jackson has thrown for four touchdowns but has been intercepted seven times, figures that weigh heavily against the backdrop of his otherwise stellar career. His struggles against Pittsburgh are not unusual, given that the Steelers are currently ranked second in the NFL for the fewest points allowed. Their defense is lauded for its resilience, standing fourth in both rushing defense and red zone efficiency.
However, Jackson remains unfazed by past outcomes. “I don't know what it is, man. Last year, we [were] supposed to [beat] them, but things just didn't go our way; the football gods weren't on our side. But it's a whole other year, it's a new year, [and] I'm looking forward to the game," Jackson mused. His determination signals his intent to rewrite the narrative against an adversary that has historically been a thorn in his side.
New Alliances and Familiar Faces
Adding a new twist to this familiar rivalry are former Ravens players DeShon Elliott and Patrick Queen, now wearing the black and gold of the Steelers. Their transitions mark an intriguing subplot, particularly for Queen, who expressed mixed emotions about his move. “I didn’t get the offer back, and it is definitely kind of upsetting being there for four years and the bond that you grow with your teammates and stuff," said Queen, reflecting on his departure from Baltimore. Nevertheless, he has embraced his current role with Pittsburgh. "Now after playing games, you just go by and just want to win games. You want to win with your teammates, your new teammates; you want to bond with those guys." This sentiment most likely adds fuel to the competitive fire that will certainly be ablaze on Sunday.
The Battle for Supremacy
As the Ravens prepare for their clash with the Steelers, they bring with them not just Jackson's hopes for redemption but the potent addition of Derrick Henry in the backfield. The combination of Jackson's dynamic playmaking ability and Henry's forceful ground game is set to test the mettle of Pittsburgh's highly-ranked defensive unit.
Jackson acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains optimistic. “There were different guys last year, and it's a different unit this year, but it's always the same goal; we want to win. We want to be the ones that come out victorious, and that's going to be the goal going into this game," he said.
This game is poised to be more than just a regular-season contest; it’s a battle where personal and team legacies intertwine. Both teams have their narratives, players with their individual motivations, and a shared goal of claiming victory in what promises to be an exhilarating encounter.
The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers, with their rich history of close and fiercely contested games, add another chapter to their storied rivalry. As Lamar Jackson steps onto the field, both his aim to conquer past demons and the Steelers' unwavering defensive tenacity ensure that fans can expect nothing short of high drama and football excellence.