Posted on Dec 08

Steelers defeat Ravens 27-22, improving playoff odds with strong performances from Rodgers, Metcalf

Posted Dec 8, 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers secured a pivotal 27-22 victory over the Baltimore Ravens, significantly boosting their playoff hopes.

Why it matters: This win marks a turning point for the Steelers as they enhance their playoff odds from 32% to 63.1%, while also solidifying Mike Tomlin's impressive head-to-head record against John Harbaugh at 22-17.

With this victory, the Steelers are eyeing their first consecutive wins since early in the season.
The triumph also demonstrates Tomlin's resilience as a coach, further establishing his leadership credentials in crucial matchups.

What’s new: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers delivered a strong performance, completing 23 of 34 passes for 284 yards, one passing touchdown, and adding a rushing touchdown.

Rodgers' performance was complemented by wide receiver DK Metcalf, who recorded a season-high 148 receiving yards on seven receptions.
The synergy between Rodgers and Metcalf appears to be a promising development for the Steelers’ aerial attack.

By the numbers: The Steelers defense played a crucial role in the victory, limiting the Ravens to just two field goals and forcing multiple turnovers in the final quarter.

They blitzed Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson on nine of his 20 dropbacks in the fourth quarter, showcasing a strategic defensive game plan that effectively disrupted Baltimore's offense.
The Steelers demonstrated their capability to control the game, having led by as many as 14 points in the first half.

Zoom In: Coach Tomlin's calm demeanor throughout the game was highlighted by players such as Alex Highsmith, emphasizing the importance of his leadership during tense moments.

“Coach T is a great leader for us,” Metcalf said, underscoring the respect the players have for Tomlin.
Highsmith added, "I'm grateful for how calm he stayed throughout the process," reflecting the mental fortitude required to navigate high-pressure situations.

Yes, but: Despite this important win, challenges remain for the Steelers as they look to build consistency moving forward.

Patrick Queen noted the need for the Ravens to focus on “stacking” wins, indicating that both teams must now address their performances heading into the remainder of the season.
The Steelers have not achieved back-to-back victories since Week 3, highlighting the urgency for continued improvement.

What’s next: Looking ahead, both teams will need to fine-tune their strategies as they approach the final stretch of the regular season.

The Steelers aim to maintain their momentum, while the Ravens will be eager to reclaim their footing after this setback.
As both teams vie for playoff positions, every game will carry significant weight, making upcoming matchups critical in determining their postseason fates.

Steelers defeat Ravens 27-22, improving playoff odds with strong performances from Rodgers, Metcalf

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 8, 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers secured a pivotal 27-22 victory over the Baltimore Ravens, significantly boosting their playoff hopes.

With this victory, the Steelers are eyeing their first consecutive wins since early in the season.

The triumph also demonstrates Tomlin's resilience as a coach, further establishing his leadership credentials in crucial matchups.

What’s new: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers delivered a strong performance, completing 23 of 34 passes for 284 yards, one passing touchdown, and adding a rushing touchdown.

Rodgers' performance was complemented by wide receiver DK Metcalf, who recorded a season-high 148 receiving yards on seven receptions.

The synergy between Rodgers and Metcalf appears to be a promising development for the Steelers’ aerial attack.

By the numbers: The Steelers defense played a crucial role in the victory, limiting the Ravens to just two field goals and forcing multiple turnovers in the final quarter.

They blitzed Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson on nine of his 20 dropbacks in the fourth quarter, showcasing a strategic defensive game plan that effectively disrupted Baltimore's offense.

The Steelers demonstrated their capability to control the game, having led by as many as 14 points in the first half.

Zoom In: Coach Tomlin's calm demeanor throughout the game was highlighted by players such as Alex Highsmith, emphasizing the importance of his leadership during tense moments.

“Coach T is a great leader for us,” Metcalf said, underscoring the respect the players have for Tomlin.

Highsmith added, "I'm grateful for how calm he stayed throughout the process," reflecting the mental fortitude required to navigate high-pressure situations.

Yes, but: Despite this important win, challenges remain for the Steelers as they look to build consistency moving forward.

Patrick Queen noted the need for the Ravens to focus on “stacking” wins, indicating that both teams must now address their performances heading into the remainder of the season.

The Steelers have not achieved back-to-back victories since Week 3, highlighting the urgency for continued improvement.

What’s next: Looking ahead, both teams will need to fine-tune their strategies as they approach the final stretch of the regular season.

The Steelers aim to maintain their momentum, while the Ravens will be eager to reclaim their footing after this setback.

As both teams vie for playoff positions, every game will carry significant weight, making upcoming matchups critical in determining their postseason fates.