As the NFL season heads into Week 11, an epic showdown awaits between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens. These fierce AFC North rivals will finally face off in a game that has the potential to shake up the division standings. Currently, the Steelers sit at an impressive 7-2, yet they haven’t faced any divisional opponents until now. Meanwhile, the Ravens, trailing closely at 7-3, are hungry to overtake the top spot in the AFC North. For fans and bettors alike, including those interested in betting without gamstop, this matchup has all the ingredients for a classic, with both teams fighting for supremacy and playoff momentum.
Don Wright / ap photo
Baltimore Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh (left) and Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin (right) talk on the field prior to a competitive matchup in Pittsburgh, PA.
Pittsburgh Steelers: A Strong Start Faces Its First Divisional Test
The Steelers have defied expectations this season, crafting a remarkable 7-2 record without a single divisional game. While they’ve been a formidable force, the real test begins now. The AFC North is one of the NFL's toughest divisions, and without any head-to-head experience against these divisional opponents, there’s an air of uncertainty around Pittsburgh's ability to sustain their success.
The Steelers have relied heavily on their defense, which has consistently delivered. Ranked among the top ten defenses in the league, Pittsburgh’s ability to stymie opponents has been a major asset. However, their offense has struggled to consistently generate points, often leaning on their defense to set up scoring opportunities. Facing off against a high-powered Ravens offense, the Steelers' offense will need to perform at a higher level if they hope to come out on top.
Baltimore Ravens: Rebounding from a Rough Start with a Dominant Offense
The Ravens started their season 0-2 but have since won seven of their last eight games. Lamar Jackson, the 2019 NFL MVP, has been sensational, playing some of the best football of his career. Adding Derrick Henry to the backfield has only bolstered their offense, providing a one-two punch that makes Baltimore a tough matchup for any opponent. Jackson’s dual-threat ability, combined with Henry’s power running, has turned the Ravens into one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL.
Despite their success, Baltimore’s defense has shown some cracks. While the offense has kept them in games, the defense has struggled at times, particularly against the pass. With divisional rival Pittsburgh up next, the Ravens’ defense will need to tighten up and find ways to pressure the quarterback. Any lapse could give the Steelers the window they need to exploit Baltimore's vulnerabilities.
Game Odds and Betting Lines
According to BetMGM, the Ravens enter as the favorites for this highly anticipated matchup:
Spread: Ravens -3
Moneyline: Ravens -175, Steelers +145
Over/Under: 48.5 points
For fans looking to bet, this game offers multiple opportunities with favorable odds and promos available on top mobile betting apps, such as ESPN BET and Fanatics Sportsbook. The odds reflect the high-stakes nature of the game, with only a slight advantage to the Ravens.
Baltimore Ravens
Ravens QB Lamar Jackson runs with the ball against the Steelers.
Expert Predictions
Here’s a rundown of expert picks for the game:
Lorenzo Reyes: Ravens 27, Steelers 26 - Reyes sees Baltimore winning, but not by much. He highlights the close nature of AFC North games and believes the Ravens may struggle to cover the spread in what is likely to be a one-score game.
Tyler Dragon: Ravens 26, Steelers 24 - Dragon notes the Steelers’ defense as one of the league’s best, posing a legitimate challenge to Baltimore’s top-ranked offense. However, Dragon ultimately trusts Lamar Jackson and Baltimore’s offense to edge out Pittsburgh, albeit in a close game.
Richard Morin: Steelers 24, Ravens 23 - Morin backs the Steelers, citing head coach Mike Tomlin’s track record of devising effective game plans against high-powered offenses. He believes the Steelers' defense will do enough to contain Jackson and come away with a narrow win.
Jordan Mendoza: Ravens 30, Steelers 27 - Mendoza predicts an exciting game where Jackson will lead a late-game drive to secure a victory. He acknowledges that Pittsburgh’s defense will make things difficult, but ultimately sees Baltimore as having the offensive edge.
Key Matchup: Steelers’ Defense vs. Ravens’ Offense
The clash between the Steelers' defense and the Ravens' offense will likely determine the outcome of this game. Pittsburgh’s defense excels at pressuring quarterbacks and forcing turnovers, ranking in the top ten in sacks and interceptions. Their ability to contain Lamar Jackson, both as a passer and a runner, will be critical. Jackson’s unique skill set has left many defenses scrambling, but Pittsburgh’s disciplined approach and aggressive front seven might present a tough challenge for him.
The Ravens, however, have shown that they can score on nearly anyone. Jackson’s arm talent and ability to extend plays outside the pocket are combined with Henry’s bruising run game to create an offense that can hit defenses in multiple ways. If the Ravens' offensive line can hold up against Pittsburgh’s pass rush, Baltimore has a solid chance of outlasting the Steelers’ defense.
Final Thoughts
This matchup between the Ravens and Steelers holds significant playoff implications. With both teams vying for control of the AFC North, the stakes could not be higher. The Ravens’ offense, led by Jackson, will look to capitalize on any opportunity, while the Steelers’ defense will aim to disrupt Baltimore’s rhythm. For fans exploring Non-Gamstop sites, this game offers plenty of excitement and unique betting opportunities.
With two high-powered teams on the field, fans can expect a thrilling, hard-fought game. Pittsburgh’s defense could keep them in the contest, but Baltimore’s offensive firepower may ultimately prove too much.
