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Steelers vs. Ravens AFC North Rivalry with Playoff Implications

The division rival Steelers and Ravens are set to renew hostilities when they meet at M&T Bank Stadium.

(Photo by Getty Images) Lamar Jackson

Pittsburgh (10-4-0) at Baltimore (9-5-0)

  • When: Dec 21 2024, 4:30 PM
  • Where: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD
  • Where to watch: FOX

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens
Moneyline

Pittsburgh Steelers   +265
Baltimore Ravens   -330

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens
Point Spread

Pittsburgh Steelers   6.5 (-105)
Baltimore Ravens   -6.5 (-115)

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens
Total

Over   44.5 (-110)
Under   44.5 (-110)

Key Players:
Pittsburgh: Russell Wilson
Baltimore: Lamar Jackson

Team Stats

Steelers   Ravens
10-4 Record 9-5
5-3 Away & Home 4-2
10-4-0 ATS 7-6-1
7-7-0 O/U 11-3-0

Last Matchup:
PIT 18-16, November 17th, 2024

Game Preview

The Pittsburgh Steelers aim to lock up the AFC North division title in a high-stakes matchup against their archrival Baltimore Ravens this Saturday. With playoff implications on the line, this game offers intriguing opportunities for bettors, with the Ravens favored by 6.5 points and a total set at 44.5.

Betting Breakdown:

Pittsburgh Steelers (10-4):
Pittsburgh enters this clash with a chance to clinch the division crown after edging out Baltimore 18-16 in their first meeting this season. Chris Boswell’s six field goals proved pivotal in that contest, and the Steelers’ defense came up big, denying the Ravens a two-point conversion in the final moments. However, Pittsburgh’s momentum was stunted by a 27-13 loss to the Eagles last week, though they secured a playoff berth thanks to favorable results elsewhere.

Quarterback Russell Wilson has struggled recently, managing just 128 passing yards last week. The Steelers’ defense, led by T.J. Watt, remains their backbone, though Watt’s recent ankle injury has raised questions about his effectiveness. Still, Pittsburgh’s 8-1 record in their last nine meetings with Baltimore should give bettors confidence, especially when paired with their history of keeping games close as underdogs.

Baltimore Ravens (9-5):
The Ravens need this win not just to keep their playoff hopes alive but also to prevent Pittsburgh from celebrating the division title on their home turf. Lamar Jackson’s performance will be critical, as he’s 1-4 against the Steelers as a starter and is looking for redemption after a narrow loss to them in November.

Baltimore is coming off a dominant 35-14 win against the Giants, with Jackson throwing five touchdowns. However, star running back Derrick Henry has been inconsistent, failing to surpass 100 rushing yards in four of his last five games. The Ravens’ defense ranks fourth in scoring, allowing just 13.9 points per game, and will aim to exploit Pittsburgh’s offensive struggles.

Key Matchups:

– Steelers Defense vs. Lamar Jackson: T.J. Watt’s return will be a significant factor in containing Jackson. If Pittsburgh can apply pressure, they can force Jackson into mistakes.

– Ravens Defense vs. Russell Wilson: Baltimore’s defense will look to capitalize on Wilson’s recent struggles, especially with Pittsburgh’s wideout George Pickens sidelined.

Betting Trends:

– Pittsburgh is 6-3 ATS in their last nine games as underdogs against Baltimore.

– Baltimore is 4-1 ATS in its last five home games.

– The under has hit in four of the last six meetings between these teams.

Prediction:

The Ravens are in better form and have the defensive edge, but Pittsburgh has thrived in this rivalry, keeping games close. The 6.5-point spread seems generous for a divisional showdown, especially with Pittsburgh’s knack for rising to the occasion in big games. Expect a low-scoring slugfest, with Pittsburgh covering the spread but Baltimore narrowly pulling out the win.

Handicappers Picks – Join for Free

NFL Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Baltimore 20-17
Expert Pick: Pittsburgh +6½ (-105) & Under 44½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $373

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