The Pittsburgh Steelers looked like they were going to win the AFC North just over a month ago. With a strong start to the season, it seemed like the division title was within reach. However, fast forward to recent times, and it’s a bit disappointing to realize the current state of the Steelers. The team has faced multiple challenges, and their momentum has stalled as they enter the postseason.
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Steelers' Mike Tomlin greets Ravens' John Harbaugh before a game.
Mike Tomlin called the Steelers’ playoff date with the Baltimore Ravens a "tax" for the four-game losing streak to end the season. While the Steelers have historically dominated the Ravens in their rivalry, their recent performance against them raises concerns. The last game between the two teams was a troubling reminder that even the most dominant rivalries can turn unpredictable when momentum is lost. The other concern is how Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry have been playing. This is a different Ravens team with something to prove.
Steelers undrafted rookie Beanie Bishop Jr. has had a solid season, and despite the team's struggles, he remains confident. Speaking about the Steelers being 9.5-point underdogs against the Ravens, Bishop emphasized that Pittsburgh still has a fair chance to win. His strong belief in the team’s potential highlights the resilience within the locker room, even when things seem uncertain.
"I don’t really look at that kind of stuff," Bishop said via a Steelers media scrum. "I think that was their first time beating us in the last 10 games. So, no, you’re not really worried about that kind of stuff."
Yes, it’s true that the Steelers have historically handled the Ravens well (winning eight of the last 10 matchups actually), but it’s impossible to ignore the fact that this Ravens team is not only better, but they’re also playing their best football at the perfect time.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers' Payton Wilson and Elandon Roberts make a tackle on Ravens' running back Derrick Henry in 2024.
The addition of Henry has brought a new dimension to their offense, Jackson is more determined than ever to prove he can deliver in the playoffs, and their defense has elevated its play significantly.
Steelers' Mike Tomlin Must Beat The Ravens To Calm Down A Desperate Fan Base
On the other hand, the Steelers are regressing at the worst possible moment. That doesn’t mean they can’t fix their issues and turn things around, but it’s clear that it won’t be an easy task. The good news—or maybe the bad news—is that Tomlin is more familiar with the Ravens than anyone else in the playoffs. This could play to the Steelers’ advantage, offering them a glimmer of hope despite their struggles.
No one is giving the Steelers any chance to upset the Ravens, but that’s an exciting position for most organizations in the playoffs, as it often feels like playing with house money. Unfortunately, that’s not the case for this Pittsburgh team.
Benjamin B. Braun / Post-Gazette
Steelers' Mike Tomlin looks on during a snowy game in Cleveland.
Tomlin hasn’t won a playoff game since the 2016 NFL season, and the way the Steelers started the 2024 season does not excuse an early exit. The pressure is on for both Tomlin and the team to win a playoff game. If they don’t, it will spark a major debate within Steeler Nation about whether Tomlin should return or if the organization should part ways with him.
Tomlin has been a tremendous head coach in the NFL for nearly two decades. However, no coach is immune to critique, and Tomlin would be the first to acknowledge that. He clearly understands what needs to be done to quiet the growing frustration of the fan base.
If his team comes out and steals a win, the fan base will likely settle down, and the last four losses may fade into the background. But another loss and yet another first-round exit would be disastrous. The pressure is mounting, and all eyes are on Tomlin to see if he can finally end his playoff drought.
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