Posted on Jan 05

Ravens lose to Steelers 26-24, miss playoffs for first time since 2021

Posted Jan 5, 2026

The Baltimore Ravens playoff hopes were dashed with a heartbreaking 26-24 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking their first season without postseason football since 2021.

Why it matters: This defeat solidifies the Ravens' disappointing end to a season that saw them finish with an 8-9 record, only their third losing season in head coach John Harbaugh's 18-year tenure.

The loss underscores the importance of consistency and precision in high-pressure situations, particularly for players like kicker Tyler Loop, who had been performing at a high level prior to this crucial miss.

What’s new: In a game filled with tension and dramatic lead changes, Loop missed a potential game-winning 44-yard field goal attempt with just seconds left on the clock.

Despite entering the game with a 90% success rate, Loop's final kick came with a 79% chance of success according to Next Gen Stats, indicating the stakes involved.

Yes, but: While Loop's miss was pivotal, the Ravens' struggles were evident throughout the game as they allowed the Steelers to maintain a narrow edge.

The game featured four lead changes in the fourth quarter, highlighting both teams' offensive capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities. Lamar Jackson's two touchdown passes to rookie Zay Flowers—covering 50 and 64 yards—demonstrated the explosive potential of the Ravens' offense.

By the numbers: Pittsburgh's victory not only secured the AFC North title but also marked a significant moment in the rivalry between these two storied franchises.

The Ravens now confront the reality of a missed playoff berth while reflecting on a season characterized by inconsistency and injury challenges.

Zoom In: Loop expressed his disappointment in the aftermath, stating, "For it to end like that sucks, and I want to do better."

His sentiments resonate with teammates who shared the pain of coming so close yet falling short; left tackle Ronnie Stanley noted, "Coming up short with the type of team that we have, it doesn't feel good."

What’s next: Moving forward, the Ravens will need to reassess their approach as they prepare for the offseason.

Key decisions regarding player contracts and roster adjustments will be inevitable as the front office looks to address the weaknesses exposed during this campaign.

The bottom line: Baltimore's painful exit from playoff contention serves as a reminder of the fine margins in professional football, where a single missed opportunity can define a season and shape the future of a franchise.

Ravens lose to Steelers 26-24, miss playoffs for first time since 2021

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 5, 2026

The Baltimore Ravens playoff hopes were dashed with a heartbreaking 26-24 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking their first season without postseason football since 2021.

The loss underscores the importance of consistency and precision in high-pressure situations, particularly for players like kicker Tyler Loop, who had been performing at a high level prior to this crucial miss.

What’s new: In a game filled with tension and dramatic lead changes, Loop missed a potential game-winning 44-yard field goal attempt with just seconds left on the clock.

Despite entering the game with a 90% success rate, Loop's final kick came with a 79% chance of success according to Next Gen Stats, indicating the stakes involved.

Yes, but: While Loop's miss was pivotal, the Ravens' struggles were evident throughout the game as they allowed the Steelers to maintain a narrow edge.

The game featured four lead changes in the fourth quarter, highlighting both teams' offensive capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities. Lamar Jackson's two touchdown passes to rookie Zay Flowers—covering 50 and 64 yards—demonstrated the explosive potential of the Ravens' offense.

By the numbers: Pittsburgh's victory not only secured the AFC North title but also marked a significant moment in the rivalry between these two storied franchises.

The Ravens now confront the reality of a missed playoff berth while reflecting on a season characterized by inconsistency and injury challenges.

Zoom In: Loop expressed his disappointment in the aftermath, stating, "For it to end like that sucks, and I want to do better."

His sentiments resonate with teammates who shared the pain of coming so close yet falling short; left tackle Ronnie Stanley noted, "Coming up short with the type of team that we have, it doesn't feel good."

What’s next: Moving forward, the Ravens will need to reassess their approach as they prepare for the offseason.

Key decisions regarding player contracts and roster adjustments will be inevitable as the front office looks to address the weaknesses exposed during this campaign.