Just over a week ago, the Baltimore Ravens were surging. They were riding a five-game winning streak heading into their Thanksgiving matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals, seeking to capitalize on a golden chance to take control of the AFC North. That did not happen.
The Ravens were flat-out embarrassed in Week 13, and while they have a longer week to prepare for their next game, they clearly have some soul-searching to do. The team has struggled all year to find a rhythm, and entering a rivalry showdown with the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, they are running out of time to ignite that flame.
Week 14 poses a key battle between the Ravens and Steelers. Both teams are 6-6, and the winner of the contest will find a huge momentum boost down the stretch as they fight for a playoff berth.
Baltimore linebacker Roquan Smith knows what is at stake and is ready to take advantage of the opportunity lying ahead.
“If you told me, Week 14, at the beginning of the season, ‘you would be tied for first place, you control your own destiny,’ I’m signing myself up for that every day of the week, and twice on Sundays,” Smith said. “Forget everything that’s happened because the only thing that matters right now is the moment…This week versus Pittsburgh at M&T Bank, that’s what matters.”
Roquan Smith sends clear message ahead of Week 14
Across the first 13 weeks, 2025 has been full of highs and lows for the Ravens. The first half was a tumultuous stretch that included ugly losses and injuries, but once they crossed their bye week, something switched. They have played themselves back into playoff contention, and while it has been far from pretty, their record and placement in the AFC North are all that matter.
Since starting 1-5, Baltimore has treated every game as if it were their last. While the loss to the Bengals soured the momentum, it is clear that the attitude and play of the unit have shifted. Against the Steelers, the Ravens are lining up to play their most important game of the season.
Like Baltimore, Pittsburgh is also coming off a rough showing, having just given up 249 rushing yards to the Buffalo Bills in a 26-7 loss last week, and that is an area Baltimore must expose. They have a top running back in the league in Derrick Henry, whose usage has been questioned in 2025, and while quarterback Lamar Jackson is as dangerous as anyone, the game plan needs to revolve around Henry. Relentless rushes with Henry should also help open up the passing game, for an air attack that has found countless issues over the last three weeks.
This rivalry matchup will be a matchup where the Ravens will have to lean on their leaders in a big way. The Steelers tend to give them problems, but if Smith’s mentality translates on the field, Baltimore should like their chances.