The Baltimore Ravens didn’t get the result they wanted on Thanksgiving, falling to the Bengals in a game that could’ve stretched their lead in the AFC North. But in a twist of fortune, the Steelers also took a hit, keeping the division race wide open-and Baltimore still in control of its own destiny. Not bad for a team that started the season 1-5 and looked like it might be headed for an early offseason.
Now, Week 14 sets the stage for one of the biggest matchups of the year: Ravens vs. Steelers, Part I.
This will be the first meeting of the season between these two rivals, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The winner moves to 7-6 and takes a critical step forward in the divisional race.
The loser drops to 6-7 and faces a steep uphill battle with only a handful of games left to play.
For the Ravens, the timing couldn’t be better-not just because they’re playing at home, but because things in Pittsburgh are starting to unravel. After a blowout loss to the Bills in Week 13, the Steelers are dealing with more than just scoreboard issues. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers didn't hold back in his postgame comments, and the ripple effects could be felt all the way through that locker room.
When asked how Pittsburgh could get more out of its passing game, Rodgers pointed directly at a breakdown in communication with tight end Jonnu Smith. “When there’s film sessions, everybody shows up,” Rodgers said.
“And when I check to a route, it’ll be the right route. Jonnu and I just weren’t on the same page.
He checked to his in-breaker and he ran out of breaker. Jonnu’s a true professional so I’m sure he’s sick about that.”
That’s a loaded quote. Rodgers didn’t just highlight a miscue-he effectively called out his teammate’s preparation and execution.
For a veteran quarterback brought in to stabilize the offense and lead a playoff push, that kind of public criticism raises questions. What kind of message does that send to the rest of the locker room?
And how does that impact chemistry heading into a must-win game?
For Baltimore, this is the kind of distraction you want your division rival dealing with. The Ravens have enough on their plate with a tough closing stretch-two games against Pittsburgh, plus matchups with the Bengals, Patriots, and Packers. Every win matters, and this weekend’s game could go a long way in determining how the AFC North shakes out.
As for Rodgers, his arrival in Pittsburgh came with plenty of attention and expectations. At times this season, he’s flashed the brilliance that made him a four-time MVP.
But more often than not, he’s looked like a quarterback in his early 40s trying to recapture what used to come naturally. If the Ravens can pressure him, force him into mistakes, and capitalize on any lingering tension in the Steelers' offense, they’ll be in prime position to take another step toward the division crown.
Sunday’s game isn’t just another chapter in the Ravens-Steelers rivalry-it’s a potential turning point in the AFC North. And if Baltimore can come out on top, it’ll be a win that echoes well beyond Week 14.