PITTSBURGH — Chris Boswell matched a franchise record by successfully kicking six field goals as the Pittsburgh Steelers claimed an 18-16 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, effectively slowing down Lamar Jackson and the league’s leading offense.
The Steelers improved their record to 8-2, marking their fifth consecutive win, thanks in large part to Boswell’s accuracy and a staunch defensive effort that kept Jackson, Derrick Henry, and their offense from finding their rhythm. This win provided some breathing room for Pittsburgh atop the AFC North standings.
Baltimore struggled throughout the game, posting season lows with only 16 points and 329 yards of offense while suffering from 12 penalties and three turnovers—each of which led to points from Boswell. The victory also highlighted Pittsburgh’s dominance in the longstanding rivalry, having won seven of their last eight encounters.
Jackson completed 16 of 33 passes for 207 yards, registering one touchdown and one interception. He connected with Zay Flowers for a 16-yard touchdown with just over a minute left, narrowing the gap for the Ravens. However, a chaotic 2-point conversion attempt saw Jackson scrambling and ultimately throwing an incomplete pass, which left Baltimore trailing by two.
The Steelers managed to secure a first down on their final possession, allowing them to run out the clock and further worsen Jackson’s record against Pittsburgh to 1-4. Henry, who tied a franchise record with his 15th rushing touchdown this season, was limited to 65 rushing yards and was not on the field during the critical 2-point conversion attempt.
While Wilson and the Steelers’ offense faced their struggles, they avoided the mistakes that plagued the Ravens. Wilson threw for 205 yards, which included an ill-advised interception in the end zone during the fourth quarter. Najee Harris contributed with 63 rushing yards, highlighted by a crucial 2-yard run that secured a first down, while George Pickens amassed eight receptions for 89 yards.
This matchup marked the second instance this season that Pittsburgh secured a win without scoring a touchdown; they’ll recall that the earlier victory also featured six Boswell field goals back in their opener against Atlanta.
With Thanksgiving approaching, the Steelers’ season appears clearer, showcasing an improved offense. However, it remains evident that Pittsburgh’s success heavily relies on the strength of its defense. Coach Mike Tomlin has noted that there is nothing “mystical” about the Steelers’ success against Jackson, a two-time NFL MVP. Nevertheless, their consistency in limiting the Ravens’ offense where many others have faltered continues to stand out.
The Ravens managed only one significant offensive drive during the game, with their recent performance contrasting sharply with their earlier easy victories. Pittsburgh’s disciplined defensive approach consistently pressured Jackson, leading to a frustrating loss for Baltimore in Acrisure Stadium.
Injury updates: Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith exited the game in the fourth quarter due to a hamstring injury and did not return, while Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton also faced injury concerns in the same quarter.
Looking ahead, the Ravens are set to head west to take on the Los Angeles Chargers on November 25. Meanwhile, the Steelers will travel to Cleveland to face the Browns in their Thursday night matchup.