The Ravens will be resting a number of starters against the Steelers on Saturday because Baltimore has already wrapped up the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs. As a result, a number of pundits are predicting that Pittsburgh will keep its playoff hopes alive with a victory.
Here’s a roundup
Analysis: “The Steelers have won six of their last seven games against the Ravens, with the past 10 being decided by one score. After three consecutive losses this season, the Steelers have won their last two games and remain alive for the postseason. … Still, the Ravens have more depth and this team will look to keep rolling into the playoffs.”
Prediction: Ravens 17, Steelers 12
Analysis: “This could be the Ravens’ third consecutive January home loss to the Steelers without [quarterback Lamar] Jackson on the field, but it would be under much happier conditions than the last two.”
Prediction: Steelers 21, Ravens 16
Analysis: “The Steelers care much more about this game since their playoff hopes virtually depend on it. … Expect a close one. Pittsburgh by a field goal.”
Prediction: Steelers 23, Ravens 20
“With the Ravens likely resting most of their starters, this presents a decent option for the Steelers, and quarterback Mason Rudolph, to continue their productive streak. The Steelers need a victory here to stay alive in the playoff race, so they should be plenty motivated. ” — Lorenzo Reyes
Prediction: Steelers 26, Ravens 20
Analysis: “No Lamar Jackson, along with some other key starters sitting, means this one will be close. The Steelers need to win to keep their postseason hopes alive, and quarterback Mason Rudolph has been solid the past two weeks, but the weather figures to be sloppy and Baltimore still has enough juice on both sides of the ball to end their division rival’s season after losing to them in October.” — Brian Wacker
Prediction: Ravens 17, Steelers 14
Analysis: “The Ravens could think about exacting some revenge here by trying to avoid a season sweep against their bitter AFC North rivals. But the wiser choice will be sitting soon-to-be two-time MVP Lamar Jackson and a lot of key banged-up players to be healthiest for the divisional playoffs. Rest is important and John Harbaugh will trust his group that it won’t lead to rust.”
Prediction: Steelers 20, Ravens 17
Analysis: “Everybody knows what needs to happen for the Steelers to gain the postseason. And it all starts with winning in Baltimore, something they have done each of the past three years and four of the past five. Why not do it again, especially with the Ravens likely to rest their stars?”
Prediction: Steelers 24, Ravens 19
