Baltimore Ravens Dominate Pittsburgh Steelers: Grades, Analysis, Video Highlights

Sep 11, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebacker C.J. Mosley (57) reacts after recovering a fumble against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

Five days after looking feeble and unprepared against the Cincinnati Bengals, the Ravens were a different team on Thursday night against the Steelers.  Pittsburgh looked to be on their way to a good night on the first drive as they held the ball for 8:07 before a lost fumble turned the proverbial tide.

Turnovers ultimately made the difference in a game where the Steelers finished with only 22 yards fewer than the Ravens, yet lost the game 26-6.  The Steelers committed three turnovers on a night when the Ravens committed none.

The most glaring differences between games one and two were a recommitment to the ground game and a defense that woke up and pressured Ben Roethlisberger after generating zero sacks in week one.

The Ravens only rushed a total of 20 times in week one, but racked up 36 attempts in week 2.  And unlike week one, Joe Flacco attempted 21 passes instead of 62.  Not surprisingly, this gave the Ravens a distinct advantage in time of possession – 35:08 to 24:52.

The Ravens defense looked like a whole different unit Thursday night after appearing to coast through game one.  This week, the D was downright feisty as they recovered two fumbles, an interception, and a pair of sacks.  They held the Steelers to 99 yards rushing, and held up better than expected against the pass.

Click next to see our Baltimore Ravens grades and analysis following their pivotal win over the Steelers.

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