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Baltimore Ravens: 3 keys to sweeping the Steelers

By Chris Schisler

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 30: Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens drops back to pass in the first half during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on September 30, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 30: Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens drops back to pass in the first half during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on September 30, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /
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BALTIMORE, MD – OCTOBER 21: Linebacker Terrell Suggs #55 of the Baltimore Ravens takes the field prior to the game against the New Orleans Saints at M&T Bank Stadium on October 21, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Todd Olszewski/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD – OCTOBER 21: Linebacker Terrell Suggs #55 of the Baltimore Ravens takes the field prior to the game against the New Orleans Saints at M&T Bank Stadium on October 21, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Todd Olszewski/Getty Images) /

3. The defense has to make things happen:

It’s hard to see the Ravens winning this game without making a big play or two on defense. Sacks are nice, especially against Ben Roethlisberger, but turnovers are what Don Martindale’s defense needs. The biggest problem the defense has had in recent weeks is the inability to get off the field quickly. Even when they get a stop it has been much more bending than the Ravens have made their fans used to seeing this year. Martindale’s flashy new look defense is starting to look like that of Dean Pees. This is a show me day for Martindale and his unit.

If Roethlisberger doesn’t throw an interception or two, winning this game will be a challenge. The New Orleans Saints provided a blueprint for beating the Ravens. Staying on the field for huge chunks of time pays off for Baltimore’s opponents. The Steelers offense is so much about rhythm  and when they find their momentum they are one of the hardest teams to stop. The defense has to knock the Steelers off track from the beginning of the game. They need to limit the chances for Roethlisberger to beat them.

Next. Ravens Flock Q&A. dark

The key last time was to stop the short passes to the tight ends. Vance McDonald often acts as the spark for the Steelers offense. Antonio Brown is going to make a play or two. So will JuJu Smith-Schuster. The key is to limit them and slow them down. Turnovers, which haven’t been the Ravens strength are needed. That will limit the Steleers chances.

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