5 Reasons Ravens Vs. Steelers Is The Fiercest Rivalry In Sports

Reason 3: Close Games

The Ravens are no stranger to close games; this is especially true against the Steelers. When these two teams do battle, it almost always comes down to a field goal. They have had 15 games decided by three points or less. Every positive play is elevated. Every negative play’s impact is sharpened. When Baltimore plays their arch enemy, any play can change the game. There is a desperation to win this game. Beating division foes is important in the pursuit of a playoff spot, however a win means more when it comes against Pittsburgh.

Close games against heated rivals is a formula for dramatic football games. Who can forget Joe Flacco’s 92 yard drive against the Steelers in 2011? The controversial Santonio Holmes  touchdown in 2008 gave the Steelers home field advantage in the playoffs. These memories stick out. This is a game that has a chance to be a classic every time.

More than anything the close games add to the emotions of this rivalry. When the Steelers had the upper hand, it felt like Ben Roethlisberger always managed to sneak out with the victory. Pittsburgh beat the Ravens three times in a row in 2008. They won six of the eight match ups from 2008-2010. Each loss seemed more brutal then the next. Since 2011 the purple and black have won eight of the last 11 games. They have had two three game winning streaks in that magnificent stretch. For Ravens fans, these wins mean more than anything.