Steelers Take Control After Early Chaos, Top Ravens 41–23 in AFC North Showdown

BALTIMORE, MD - With both teams entering Week 14 at 10-2, Sunday's matchup at M&T Bank Stadium felt more like January football than a mid-December game. The Steelers were trying to snap a two-game skid, while the Ravens arrived riding a four-game winning streak and playing some of their best football of the season. By the end of the night, it was Pittsburgh that made the louder statement, pulling away for a 41-23 win in a game that swung decisively after an explosive second quarter.

A Chaotic Start Sets the Tone

Despite a scoreless first quarter, the game opened with immediate drama. On the very first play from scrimmage, the Ravens put the ball on the ground, and Pittsburgh's defense capitalized. The Steelers forced and recovered the fumble on the opening snap, instantly flipping field position and setting the tone for a night where Baltimore struggled to protect the football.

While neither team found the end zone in the opening quarter, the Steelers' defense made it clear early that this would be a physical, high-pressure contest, forcing the Ravens to play from behind the chains throughout the first half.

Steelers' Offense Explodes After Halftime

After taking a 14-7 lead into halftime, Pittsburgh seized full control coming out of the locker room. The Steelers scored 27 points over the final two quarters, leaning on a balanced offensive attack that overwhelmed Baltimore's defense.

Pittsburgh finished the night with 445 offensive yards, including 232 rushing yards that repeatedly gashed the Ravens at the second level. The Steelers converted 60 percent of their third-down opportunities and consistently finished drives, scoring touchdowns on half of their red-zone trips.

Baltimore kept pace briefly, but long Steelers drives wore down the Ravens' defense, and the game tilted permanently once Pittsburgh pushed the lead into double digits midway through the third quarter.

Turnovers and Field Position Decide It

The difference in the game ultimately came down to situational football. Pittsburgh won the turnover battle outright, forcing and recovering two fumbles while committing none of their own. The Steelers also avoided costly penalties, finishing with just three flags for 25 yards, compared to Baltimore's inability to consistently flip the field.

While the Ravens moved the ball effectively at times, their 128 rushing yards and missed opportunities in key moments kept them from mounting a serious comeback. Pittsburgh's ability to pair takeaways with points proved decisive in what was expected to be a tight AFC North battle.

Up Next

The Steelers will return home in Week 15 to host the Miami Dolphins, looking to build on this momentum as the playoff race tightens. The Ravens will go on the road next week as they prepare to regroup and defend their division positioning against the Cincinnati Bengals.