Ravens at Steelers

The AFC Central conference returns to their perennial position at the top of the pack producing 3 playoff teams, two matched up in this contest. During the regular season going face-to-face each team won their home game by 20 points. Playing in Pittsburgh may be the key for the Steelers.

While the Baltimore Ravens play a well-balanced, solid game, above average in most stat categories, the Steelers have a Jeckyl-Hyde profile. Steelers are strong on passing offense, ranked 2nd in the league in Yards per Pass Attempt, 7.48 yards per game. (Chart below).

However, Stellers are weak on defense with 7.03 Yards per Pass Attempt Allowed, 29th in the league. (Chart below).

This game should be decided in the air. Can the Ravens defense stop the powerful passing game of QB Roethlisberger and the Steelers? Can the struggling pass defense of the Steelers stop QB Flacco and the Ravens? These matchups make for an interesting strategic contest. The computer goes with the home team Steelers (worth 3 points) but by a slim 0.71-point margin. With a 4-game win streak and the Pittsburgh home field, I'll take their side as well.

Bill Sanders for BudGoodeSports.com
dr.bill@wrsanders.com

Copyright 2014, BudGoodeSports.com. All rights reserved.