Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7) vs. Baltimore Ravens (13-3)
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens 1/6/24 – As we approach the climax of the NFL’s Week 18, a riveting showdown awaits between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. The Steelers, holding a respectable 9-7 record, are set to clash with the Ravens, who have impressively clinched a 13-3 standing, at the M&T Bank Stadium. This matchup is not just a battle for supremacy but also a treasure trove of free NFL insights for enthusiasts and analysts alike. The game, scheduled at 4:30 PM ET, will be broadcasted on ABC, promising a spectacle for football fans nationwide.
This season, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense has been greatly strengthened by their rushing and receiving units. Running back Najee Harris has been an incredible force with 923 rushing yards and seven touchdowns through 16 games; his average of 57.7 yards per game and 20+ yard plays have been key elements in their ground game. On the receiving side, George Pickens stands out with 1140 receiving yards, 63 receptions, and five touchdowns; his contributions have extended the field and created significant play opportunities for their offense.
On the other side of things, Baltimore Ravens have proven their capabilities both rushing and receiving. Gus Edwards has amassed 762 yards and 13 touchdowns so far for them, providing key contributions in ground play – his average of 47.6 yards per game has also proven essential. Furthermore, Odell Beckham Jr has amassed 565 receiving yards with three touchdowns from just 14 games, becoming an essential target for their quarterbacks.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens 1/6/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, January 6, 2024 at 4:30 PM ET |
| Where: | M&T Bank Stadium |
| TV: | ABC |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Mitch Trubisky QB vs. Tyler Huntley QB
Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation has remained in flux all season. Mitch Trubisky got the initial starting nod out of training camp, but his turnover issues have landed him in the doghouse. Still, he offers an athletic skill set that could present challenges for Baltimore’s pass rush if called upon. Reports are he has diligently prepared despite the demotion. He clearly has the most game experience of any Steelers signal caller. He will need to avoid the critical mistakes that plagued him earlier in 2022, but his 4 touchdowns against zero picks over the last 3 contests perhaps shows growth.
On the Ravens’ side, expectations were not high for backup Tyler Huntley entering the year. Yet he has exceeded them at every turn, evidenced by his sterling 123.6 passer rating. He thrived when called upon due to Lamar Jackson’s injury, keeping Baltimore surging toward the top AFC playoff seed. His accuracy and ball security stand out, with 66.7% completions and zero interceptions thus far. He lacks Jackson’s explosiveness as a runner, but has proven he can efficiently steer the offense. His emergence kept Baltimore from skipping a beat offensively when their MVP quarterback went down.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Pittsburgh Steelers -205, Total Odds: 35.5
The betting odds place the Steelers as the favorites with a -205 moneyline, indicating their perceived superiority in this matchup. The total of 35.5 points suggests a game that might not be high-scoring, considering the strong defenses of both teams.
Pittsburgh Steelers Betting Trends
The Steelers are 13-7 against the spread (ATS) this season, consistently surpassing betting expectations. Pittsburgh has also gone over 35.5 total points just once over its last 8 away contests, further making the under look attractive at that number. Backing Pittsburgh ATS while betting the under seems to align with the bulk of trends.
Baltimore Ravens Betting Trends
Baltimore is 6-0 straight up (SU) in its last 6 games, signaling the team enters this marquee matchup with plenty of momentum. However, the Ravens have gone under 35.5 points against Pittsburgh in 6 consecutive meetings. That eye-popping under trend seems hard ignore at the posted total.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens 1/6/24 Betting Picks
Considering the statistical trends and performances of both teams, this game is shaping up to be a closely contested battle. The Steelers, with their slight edge in the passing game and their recent ATS success, might have the upper hand. However, the Ravens’ strong defensive record, particularly against the Steelers, cannot be overlooked.
In terms of betting, the safer pick might be the Steelers, given their recent dominance over the Ravens. Prop bets on individual player performances, like Najee Harris’ rushing yards or George Pickens’ receiving yards, could offer value. For the over/under, leaning towards the UNDER might be the handicapper’s favorite pick, given both teams’ tendencies and defensive strengths.
Free Pick and Prediction: Pittsburgh Steelers 18, Baltimore Ravens 15