Mike Tomlin discusses significance of Steelers-Ravens rivalry after win over Baltimore
NFL rivalries usually don’t receive the same amount of hype as those at the college level. But make no mistake, the feud between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens can be as contentious as any in the country. Mike Tomlin had no problem talking about it following a big win Sunday.
Pittsburgh secured an important 17-10 win over Baltimore at home in Week 5, improving to 3-2 on the season and sitting atop the AFC North.
The Steelers trailed 10-0 in the first half and overcame a 10-3 deficit in the fourth quarter to get the win. The game-changing play came on a 41-yard touchdown pass from Kenny Pickett to George Pickens, giving the Steelers a 14-10 lead with 1:17 to play.
Baltimore then fumbled on their next possession and Chris Boswell tacked on a 42-yard field goal to give the Steelers a touchdown advantage with under a minute to play.
After the game, Tomlin hit on the significance of the rivalry.
“Some of those guys have been in significant matchups before. So, if they went to Alabama or Auburn, I say it’s like the Iron Bowl,” Tomlin said. “You know what I mean? You’re just trying to capture the essence of it for the guys. And, most of the guys that went to universities have been part of some significant rivalries.
“That’s a frame of reference. But, make no mistake about it, you gotta be a part of it to understand it. I guarantee those guys got a better understanding as we sit here today.”
Sunday’s game between Pittsburgh and Baltimore was the first of two between the rivals. The two will go head-to-head again on Jan. 7, closing out the 2023 regular season.
Steelers fans still furious with Matt Canada
Even in a win, Steelers fans refuse to show support to offensive coordinator Matt Canada. For the second time this season, a “Fire Matt Canada” chant broke out at Acrisure Stadium.
Fans also broke out the chants a few weeks ago in Pittsburgh’s 26-22 win over Cleveland. So, despite the 3-2 record, Canada isn’t the most popular person in the Steel City.
The Steelers continue to struggle offensively and obviously fans are tired of seeing it. Will Tomlin make an in-season change or will he continue to ride it out until the end of the season?
It’s a storyline worth watching if the Steelers offense continues to struggle.