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AFC Championship Pregame - Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers (1 Viewer)

Mason hasn't practiced in more than 2 months -- since separating his shoulder vs. the Texans.

He's actually on the mend, unlike a lot of the Ravens' injured guys. He's certainly healthier now than he was vs. Dallas four weeks ago. Actually, Heap and Willie Anderson also seem to be a little better this week.

Rolle and Suggs are the two big questions at this point.
OK, that is what I thought, just checking.
 
Ravens' Suggs, Rolle, Mason absent again

Linebacker Terrell Suggs, cornerback Samari Rolle and wide receiver Derrick Mason were not present at the portion of this morning's practice open to the media. Suggs (strained right shoulder), Rolle (groin) and Mason (knee/dislocated left shoulder/trapezius muscle) have yet to practice prior to Sunday's AFC title contest against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Linebacker Jarret Johnson (left calf) stood on the sideline in a sweatshirt and sweatpants, but he was not wearing his usual No. 95 jersey. Johnson had practiced on a limited basis yesterday after sitting out Wednesday's session.

The good news is that defensive tackle Justin Bannan (foot) and wide receiver Mark Clayton (thigh) made appearances today after missing practice Wednesday and Thursday.

Posted by Edward Lee on January 16, 2009 11:43 A

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/rav...sent_again.html
Mason might not play ?
I bet he plays. In fact it wouldn't surprise me to see all of them suit up. How long they can play and at what level remains a question but these guys are going to play if at all possible.
No doubt
 
Was just looking back at the second Steelers-Ravens game. WTF happened to the Ravens D on the final two drives?

All game, they give up 165 yards and 3 points. Ben has 116 yards passing all game. And then the Steelers get 146 yards on their last two drives, including 130 passing by Ben, and score 10 points.

Makes you think maybe the Steelers should come out throwing. But then that sets them up for sacks and INTs, and maybe they think the only chance the Ravens have to win is by forcing turnovers. So, instead, they keep it close to the vest and it turns into another close, hard-fought, nailbiter.

Who knows?

On the last broadcast, Simms said that both teams felt the only way they could lose the game was by giving up a big play, and as long as they avoided that, they would win. And then both teams went out and played it very close to the vest, trusting that they would win as long as they didn't give the game away.

Feels to me like if the Steelers take some chances on O vs. the banged-up Ravens D, they can score a couple of TD and earn a relatively easy win. But if they play it too conservative again, this week's game could end up just like last week's Titans game, with the Ravens having a chance to steal it away at the end.

 
Was just looking back at the second Steelers-Ravens game. WTF happened to the Ravens D on the final two drives?All game, they give up 165 yards and 3 points. Ben has 116 yards passing all game. And then the Steelers get 146 yards on their last two drives, including 130 passing by Ben, and score 10 points.Makes you think maybe the Steelers should come out throwing. But then that sets them up for sacks and INTs, and maybe they think the only chance the Ravens have to win is by forcing turnovers. So, instead, they keep it close to the vest and it turns into another close, hard-fought, nailbiter.Who knows?On the last broadcast, Simms said that both teams felt the only way they could lose the game was by giving up a big play, and as long as they avoided that, they would win. And then both teams went out and played it very close to the vest, trusting that they would win as long as they didn't give the game away.Feels to me like if the Steelers take some chances on O vs. the banged-up Ravens D, they can score a couple of TD and earn a relatively easy win. But if they play it too conservative again, this week's game could end up just like last week's Titans game, with the Ravens having a chance to steal it away at the end.
If last week was any indication, I think Tomlin will play to win. On the other hand, it looked like the Ravens were playing not to lose. It worked out for both of them and to be honest, I think the Ravens best chance is to play not to lose on offense and hope they can force some key turnovers.
 
The_Man:

Where's Roadkill and the rest of the Ravens crew? I loved their insights on the Titans game; I was wondering where they are. This thread needs them.

 
Was just looking back at the second Steelers-Ravens game. WTF happened to the Ravens D on the final two drives?All game, they give up 165 yards and 3 points. Ben has 116 yards passing all game. And then the Steelers get 146 yards on their last two drives, including 130 passing by Ben, and score 10 points.Makes you think maybe the Steelers should come out throwing. But then that sets them up for sacks and INTs, and maybe they think the only chance the Ravens have to win is by forcing turnovers. So, instead, they keep it close to the vest and it turns into another close, hard-fought, nailbiter.Who knows?On the last broadcast, Simms said that both teams felt the only way they could lose the game was by giving up a big play, and as long as they avoided that, they would win. And then both teams went out and played it very close to the vest, trusting that they would win as long as they didn't give the game away.Feels to me like if the Steelers take some chances on O vs. the banged-up Ravens D, they can score a couple of TD and earn a relatively easy win. But if they play it too conservative again, this week's game could end up just like last week's Titans game, with the Ravens having a chance to steal it away at the end.
They let Ben run the Lightning package (No Huddle).
 
Tom Servo said:
The_Man:Where's Roadkill and the rest of the Ravens crew? I loved their insights on the Titans game; I was wondering where they are. This thread needs them.
:hey: and a :thumbup: to all our yinzer friends on the board.The Stillers' best game is better than the Ratbirds' best game. They're gonna have to shoot themselves in the foot a la Tennessee for Baltimore to have a chance. Fast Willie will probably do minimal damage but, as our GB The_Man noted, Pittsburgh's intermediate passing game to Hines and Heath, with Santonio to stretch the field, is what will probably carry the day for them. Baltimore's back seven got lit up in Nashville, as we all saw, and I don't see much of an improvement coming if Rolle is out and the pass rush is diminished by the loss of Suggs. That essentially puts them down to their 3rd and 4th CBs and we all also saw how Ben lit up a depleted secondary last year (though to be fair Walker and Washington are better than the '08 contingent).I see the Steelers winning this one about 23-6. And it'll be painful to see it play out like that because this Ravens team has been pretty enjoyable to watch this year. They've often been pretty hard to like because of the way they strut and talk but I've really been impressed at the way they focused on cutting down on the mistakes and stupid penalties and just played so consistently hard. They brought it every game and it's the only reason they avoided any dumb upsets and squeaked into the playoffs. That's way more than we were expecting back in August. :bye:
 
Sorry if this was already posted here, and I haven't verified this, but I was listening to some national show on the way home and they mentioned that the Steelers have played a team in the playoffs that they beat twice in the regular season seven times.

They are 7-0 in those games.

 
Sorry if this was already posted here, and I haven't verified this, but I was listening to some national show on the way home and they mentioned that the Steelers have played a team in the playoffs that they beat twice in the regular season seven times.They are 7-0 in those games.
But it's REALLY HARD to beat a team three times in one season.
 
Well, it's nice to see that Pittsburgh's mayor has decided to go by "Steelerstahl" this week instead of his family name of Ravenstahl this week. It's over now Baltimore -- your fate is sealed!!! :thumbup:
I'm surprised he doesn't just leave well enough alone.. Ravenstahl seems perfect.. Ravens Stall again on this drive.. why change that..
And if my recollection of HS German is correct, "stahl" is "steel" in English. Which, if true, is even funnier. "Steelersteel" :popcorn:
You would be correct
 
Sorry if this was already posted here, and I haven't verified this, but I was listening to some national show on the way home and they mentioned that the Steelers have played a team in the playoffs that they beat twice in the regular season seven times.They are 7-0 in those games.
Wow. Excuse me, I'll be right back..........
 
Sorry if this was already posted here, and I haven't verified this, but I was listening to some national show on the way home and they mentioned that the Steelers have played a team in the playoffs that they beat twice in the regular season seven times.They are 7-0 in those games.
Either your information or your recollection is incorrect.The Steelers are 7-0 in the playoffs against divisional opponents, and it is the third meeting of the season when they meet in the playoffs. However, five of those times ('78 HOU, '79 HOU, '89 HOU, '01 BALT, '05 CINC) the regular season was a 1-1 split. The two times the Steelers swept three games were against the 1994 and 2002 Browns.
 
Sorry if this was already posted here, and I haven't verified this, but I was listening to some national show on the way home and they mentioned that the Steelers have played a team in the playoffs that they beat twice in the regular season seven times.They are 7-0 in those games.
Wow. Excuse me, I'll be right back..........
2002- Browns1994- BrownsI'm calling BS on my own post due to I'm back in the 70's and this all I've found and I don't feel like continuing.eta the jerk beat me above. F'n sporting news radio.
 
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Sorry if this was already posted here, and I haven't verified this, but I was listening to some national show on the way home and they mentioned that the Steelers have played a team in the playoffs that they beat twice in the regular season seven times.They are 7-0 in those games.
Wow. Excuse me, I'll be right back..........
2002- Browns1994- BrownsI'm calling BS on my own post due to I'm back in the 70's and this all I've found and I don't feel like continuing.eta the jerk beat me above. F'n sporting news radio.
You've got it right now.The Steelers are 7-0 all-time against divisional teams. Each meeting has been the third.3-0 vs. HOU (1978, 1979, 1989)2-0 vs. CLEV (1994, 2002)1-0 vs. BALT (2001)1-0 vs. CINC (2005)All of the regular seasons were split 1-1 except for the two Cleveland entries.
 
Sorry if this was already posted here, and I haven't verified this, but I was listening to some national show on the way home and they mentioned that the Steelers have played a team in the playoffs that they beat twice in the regular season seven times.They are 7-0 in those games.
Wow. Excuse me, I'll be right back..........
2002- Browns1994- BrownsI'm calling BS on my own post due to I'm back in the 70's and this all I've found and I don't feel like continuing.eta the jerk beat me above. F'n sporting news radio.
You've got it right now.The Steelers are 7-0 all-time against divisional teams. Each meeting has been the third.3-0 vs. HOU (1978, 1979, 1989)2-0 vs. CLEV (1994, 2002)1-0 vs. BALT (2001)1-0 vs. CINC (2005)All of the regular seasons were split 1-1 except for the two Cleveland entries.
OK. Im back. What did I miss................
 
What is Lendale White doing in the Steelers locker room? Nice feature on Tomlin otherwise!

Man, I wish the Vikes would have tapped into his genius rather then feather the flame of hell that is Childress.

 
From SI.com daily newsletter today...

Pancaking the myth

As the Steelers and Ravens prepare to square off for the third time—

Pittsburgh won the first two meetings—don’t buy the theory that it’s

darn near impossible to beat a team three times in one season. Since the

1970 merger, there have been 18 opportunities for teams to complete a

three-game sweep—and they are 11-7 in those situations. The Steelers, by

the way, are 2-0 in previous opportunities to use the broom.

YEAR SWEEP OPPORTUNITY THIRD MATCHUP

1982 Dolphins defeat Jets, 14-0 AFC championship game

1983 Seahawks lose to Raiders, 30-14 AFC championship game

1986 Giants defeat Redskins, 17-0 NFC championship game

1989 Oilers lose to Steelers, 26-23 (OT) Wild card game

1991 Chiefs defeat Raiders, 10-6 Wild card game

1992 Chiefs lose to Chargers, 17-0 Wild card game

1993 Raiders defeat Broncos, 42-24 Wild card game

1994 Steelers defeat Browns, 29-9 Divisional round game

1994 Vikings lose to Bears, 35-18 Wild card game

1997 Patriots defeat Dolphins, 17-3 Wild card game

1997 Packers defeat Buccaneers, 21-7 Divisional round game

1998 Cowboys lose to Cardinals, 20-7 Wild card game

1999 Titans defeat Jaguars, 33-14 AFC championship game

2000 Giants defeat Eagles, 20-10 Divisional round game

2002 Steelers defeat Browns, 36-33 Wild card game

2004 Rams defeat Seahawks, 27-20 Wild card game

2004 Packers lose to Vikings, 31-17 Wild card game

2007 Cowboys lose to Giants, 21-17 Divisional round game

 
Tom Servo said:
The_Man:Where's Roadkill and the rest of the Ravens crew? I loved their insights on the Titans game; I was wondering where they are. This thread needs them.
:hey: and a :2cents: to all our yinzer friends on the board.The Stillers' best game is better than the Ratbirds' best game. They're gonna have to shoot themselves in the foot a la Tennessee for Baltimore to have a chance. Fast Willie will probably do minimal damage but, as our GB The_Man noted, Pittsburgh's intermediate passing game to Hines and Heath, with Santonio to stretch the field, is what will probably carry the day for them. Baltimore's back seven got lit up in Nashville, as we all saw, and I don't see much of an improvement coming if Rolle is out and the pass rush is diminished by the loss of Suggs. That essentially puts them down to their 3rd and 4th CBs and we all also saw how Ben lit up a depleted secondary last year (though to be fair Walker and Washington are better than the '08 contingent).I see the Steelers winning this one about 23-6. And it'll be painful to see it play out like that because this Ravens team has been pretty enjoyable to watch this year. They've often been pretty hard to like because of the way they strut and talk but I've really been impressed at the way they focused on cutting down on the mistakes and stupid penalties and just played so consistently hard. They brought it every game and it's the only reason they avoided any dumb upsets and squeaked into the playoffs. That's way more than we were expecting back in August. :cry:
I don't have much to add to roadkill's excellent post - he even has the same score I do. My thoughts:What I think the Ravens should do: open up the offense & turn Flacco loose from the get-go. It could very easily backfire & Baltimore gets blown out early. But I think they're running on fumes now & their only real chance (barring Pittsburgh playing uncharacteristically bad) is to try & score a ton of points.What I think they will do: play field position & conservative as long as they're in striking distance (say, within 10 pts). I just don't think they can score enough in this manner to keep up.
 
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If Suggs and Rolle can play at full speed, then I think the Ravens could maybe get lucky and steal another one. The Steelers special teams and trouble in pass protection, coupled with the big play capability of Baltimore's D, could make possible another 13-10 squeaker. But I'm thinking a 24-6 Steelers win that isn't in question by the start of the 4th quarter is more likely.
The Ravens homer crew is certainly on the same wavelength for this game
 
Tom Servo said:
The_Man:Where's Roadkill and the rest of the Ravens crew? I loved their insights on the Titans game; I was wondering where they are. This thread needs them.
:) and a :thumbup: to all our yinzer friends on the board.The Stillers' best game is better than the Ratbirds' best game. They're gonna have to shoot themselves in the foot a la Tennessee for Baltimore to have a chance. Fast Willie will probably do minimal damage but, as our GB The_Man noted, Pittsburgh's intermediate passing game to Hines and Heath, with Santonio to stretch the field, is what will probably carry the day for them. Baltimore's back seven got lit up in Nashville, as we all saw, and I don't see much of an improvement coming if Rolle is out and the pass rush is diminished by the loss of Suggs. That essentially puts them down to their 3rd and 4th CBs and we all also saw how Ben lit up a depleted secondary last year (though to be fair Walker and Washington are better than the '08 contingent).I see the Steelers winning this one about 23-6. And it'll be painful to see it play out like that because this Ravens team has been pretty enjoyable to watch this year. They've often been pretty hard to like because of the way they strut and talk but I've really been impressed at the way they focused on cutting down on the mistakes and stupid penalties and just played so consistently hard. They brought it every game and it's the only reason they avoided any dumb upsets and squeaked into the playoffs. That's way more than we were expecting back in August. :thumbup:
I don't have much to add to roadkill's excellent post - he even has the same score I do. My thoughts:What I think the Ravens should do: open up the offense & turn Flacco loose from the get-go. It could very easily backfire & Baltimore gets blown out early. But I think they're running on fumes now & their only real chance (barring Pittsburgh playing uncharacteristically bad) is to try & score a ton of points.What I think they will do: play field position & conservative as long as they're in striking distance (say, within 10 pts). I just don't think they can score enough in this manner to keep up.
Nice takes guys. You two are good people. :mellow:P.S. I like your predictions, too. ;)
 
What I think the Ravens should do: open up the offense & turn Flacco loose from the get-go. It could very easily backfire & Baltimore gets blown out early. But I think they're running on fumes now & their only real chance (barring Pittsburgh playing uncharacteristically bad) is to try & score a ton of points.What I think they will do: play field position & conservative as long as they're in striking distance (say, within 10 pts). I just don't think they can score enough in this manner to keep up.
Conversely, I think if the Steelers come out and open up and throw the ball, they'll jump out to a quick 10+ advantage and the game will be over. But if they stick with the running game and play it conservatively, they'll give the Ravens a chance to hang around and steal the game.
 
What I think the Ravens should do: open up the offense & turn Flacco loose from the get-go. It could very easily backfire & Baltimore gets blown out early. But I think they're running on fumes now & their only real chance (barring Pittsburgh playing uncharacteristically bad) is to try & score a ton of points.What I think they will do: play field position & conservative as long as they're in striking distance (say, within 10 pts). I just don't think they can score enough in this manner to keep up.
I'm with you though I don't think the coaching staff has it in them to throw caution to the wind. Just can't bring themselves to do it and risk being out of it early (and drawing the heat for the decision).No one would be more surprised than me if they can make the same formula work that worked last week. You just can't count on the Stillers' offense screwing up when its got a chance to step on the Ravens' collective necks.
 
What I think the Ravens should do: open up the offense & turn Flacco loose from the get-go. It could very easily backfire & Baltimore gets blown out early. But I think they're running on fumes now & their only real chance (barring Pittsburgh playing uncharacteristically bad) is to try & score a ton of points.

What I think they will do: play field position & conservative as long as they're in striking distance (say, within 10 pts). I just don't think they can score enough in this manner to keep up.
I'm with you though I don't think the coaching staff has it in them to throw caution to the wind. Just can't bring themselves to do it and risk being out of it early (and drawing the heat for the decision).No one would be more surprised than me if they can make the same formula work that worked last week. You just can't count on the Stillers' offense screwing up when its got a chance to step on the Ravens' collective necks.
It is understandable that Harbaugh would want to play it close to the vest. For about 50 minutes, it was working in Baltimore. Barring two late drives, the Ravens take that game and the playoffs are a different story. Plus, to a some extent, they did the same thing the last time they were in the Burg. Two narrow losses by playing conservatively? It's hard to say the formula needs to be jettisoned, but the NFL is about W's and L's. Of course, they could come out guns blazing just to throw the Steelers on their heels (see Steelers v. Colts, 2005). :lmao:

 
What I think the Ravens should do: open up the offense & turn Flacco loose from the get-go. It could very easily backfire & Baltimore gets blown out early. But I think they're running on fumes now & their only real chance (barring Pittsburgh playing uncharacteristically bad) is to try & score a ton of points.

What I think they will do: play field position & conservative as long as they're in striking distance (say, within 10 pts). I just don't think they can score enough in this manner to keep up.
I'm with you though I don't think the coaching staff has it in them to throw caution to the wind. Just can't bring themselves to do it and risk being out of it early (and drawing the heat for the decision).No one would be more surprised than me if they can make the same formula work that worked last week. You just can't count on the Stillers' offense screwing up when its got a chance to step on the Ravens' collective necks.
It is understandable that Harbaugh would want to play it close to the vest. For about 50 minutes, it was working in Baltimore. Barring two late drives, the Ravens take that game and the playoffs are a different story. Plus, to a some extent, they did the same thing the last time they were in the Burg. Two narrow losses by playing conservatively? It's hard to say the formula needs to be jettisoned, but the NFL is about W's and L's. Of course, they could come out guns blazing just to throw the Steelers on their heels (see Steelers v. Colts, 2005). :lmao:
As long as the game stays close, I can't fault the Ravens too much if they play slow-ball. My main concern is that the defense is soo beat up & tired, and I just can't see the Ravens being able to put together long time-consuming drives at 3.34 yds per play against the Stillers to keep the D off of the field. Which in my opinion means that - if the D's going to have the ball moved on them by Pitt anyway - they have to score points. A lot of points. Play-actions on first down, deep crossing routes, get the Steelers on their heels a bit, and then maybe they can run the ball a little. Use the pass to set up the run, try to get an early lead, and maybe they'll get lucky enough that Ben presses a little. Slamming the ball into that D 40 times without a workable lead ain't gonna be enough, IMO.
 
Tom Servo said:
The_Man:

Where's Roadkill and the rest of the Ravens crew? I loved their insights on the Titans game; I was wondering where they are. This thread needs them.
:hey: and a :popcorn: to all our yinzer friends on the board.The Stillers' best game is better than the Ratbirds' best game. They're gonna have to shoot themselves in the foot a la Tennessee for Baltimore to have a chance. Fast Willie will probably do minimal damage but, as our GB The_Man noted, Pittsburgh's intermediate passing game to Hines and Heath, with Santonio to stretch the field, is what will probably carry the day for them. Baltimore's back seven got lit up in Nashville, as we all saw, and I don't see much of an improvement coming if Rolle is out and the pass rush is diminished by the loss of Suggs. That essentially puts them down to their 3rd and 4th CBs and we all also saw how Ben lit up a depleted secondary last year (though to be fair Walker and Washington are better than the '08 contingent).

I see the Steelers winning this one about 23-6. And it'll be painful to see it play out like that because this Ravens team has been pretty enjoyable to watch this year. They've often been pretty hard to like because of the way they strut and talk but I've really been impressed at the way they focused on cutting down on the mistakes and stupid penalties and just played so consistently hard. They brought it every game and it's the only reason they avoided any dumb upsets and squeaked into the playoffs. That's way more than we were expecting back in August. :thumbup:
I don't have much to add to roadkill's excellent post - he even has the same score I do. My thoughts:What I think the Ravens should do: open up the offense & turn Flacco loose from the get-go. It could very easily backfire & Baltimore gets blown out early. But I think they're running on fumes now & their only real chance (barring Pittsburgh playing uncharacteristically bad) is to try & score a ton of points.

What I think they will do: play field position & conservative as long as they're in striking distance (say, within 10 pts). I just don't think they can score enough in this manner to keep up.
For those so inclined to place a nickle or 2 on these type affairs, I don't see how the total stays under 34....while there will be alot of run attempts by both sides (I like MMoore to do more damage than FWP, btw), the Ravens have been doing a nice job of getting down field when needed and I think they hit the endzone at least once via the air strikePitts can and will throw on us....BIG

Suggs is in a sling---he probably man's up and dresses, but 1 shot to the shoulder and it turns to mush...while it's great to think he puts in the effort for the team and all, if the Ravens have any depth, it's @LB....it's not the pressure type Suggs provides, so Rex will need to figure out how to get to Ben w/o Sizzle

next, Rolle can hardly walk....first time he shows up on the field(if he does), Ben should go double move and over the top of him for a likely score--Holmes should be able to blow by him, no problem

and if he can't go, it means Frank f'in Walker starts oposite Washington---where Ben should go double move and over the top...you know the rest--do not be afraid of Frank Walker

once Pittsburgh opens up a 17-3 lead in the 2nd quarter, expect Cam to throw the kitchen sink out there---I don't expect too much McClain/McGahee, but rather expect(hope for!) a solid dose of Ray Rice...I like 15 touches for Rice tomorrow, as there will be plenty of time for no huddle or hurry up and him seeing some checkdown work

also expect to see a couple Troy Smith packages in, a fake kick and some stuff we haven't seen yet this year...the point is I see more O out of the Ravens than we have the last couple weeks, and with Pitts moving the ball---and they will---I'm not shocked to see something in the 27-13 range, minimum, and maybe as many as 50 scored in this one

IF Rex Ryan schemes something the Steelers O-line struggles to handle, then the Blackbirds have an outside shot at comming out on top...but I still see this over the 34 as the loser gets into the mid-teens

the season has been more than anyone could have sanely predicted, and I'm looking forward to many more AFC championship games against :towelwave:

 
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Tom Servo said:
The_Man:

Where's Roadkill and the rest of the Ravens crew? I loved their insights on the Titans game; I was wondering where they are. This thread needs them.
:hey: and a :unsure: to all our yinzer friends on the board.The Stillers' best game is better than the Ratbirds' best game. They're gonna have to shoot themselves in the foot a la Tennessee for Baltimore to have a chance. Fast Willie will probably do minimal damage but, as our GB The_Man noted, Pittsburgh's intermediate passing game to Hines and Heath, with Santonio to stretch the field, is what will probably carry the day for them. Baltimore's back seven got lit up in Nashville, as we all saw, and I don't see much of an improvement coming if Rolle is out and the pass rush is diminished by the loss of Suggs. That essentially puts them down to their 3rd and 4th CBs and we all also saw how Ben lit up a depleted secondary last year (though to be fair Walker and Washington are better than the '08 contingent).

I see the Steelers winning this one about 23-6. And it'll be painful to see it play out like that because this Ravens team has been pretty enjoyable to watch this year. They've often been pretty hard to like because of the way they strut and talk but I've really been impressed at the way they focused on cutting down on the mistakes and stupid penalties and just played so consistently hard. They brought it every game and it's the only reason they avoided any dumb upsets and squeaked into the playoffs. That's way more than we were expecting back in August. :)
I don't have much to add to roadkill's excellent post - he even has the same score I do. My thoughts:What I think the Ravens should do: open up the offense & turn Flacco loose from the get-go. It could very easily backfire & Baltimore gets blown out early. But I think they're running on fumes now & their only real chance (barring Pittsburgh playing uncharacteristically bad) is to try & score a ton of points.

What I think they will do: play field position & conservative as long as they're in striking distance (say, within 10 pts). I just don't think they can score enough in this manner to keep up.
For those so inclined to place a nickle or 2 on these type affairs, I don't see how the total stays under 34....while there will be alot of run attempts by both sides (I like MMoore to do more damage than FWP, btw), the Ravens have been doing a nice job of getting down field when needed and I think they hit the endzone at least once via the air strikePitts can and will throw on us....BIG

Suggs is in a sling---he probably man's up and dresses, but 1 shot to the shoulder and it turns to mush...while it's great to think he puts in the effort for the team and all, if the Ravens have any depth, it's @LB....it's not the pressure type Suggs provides, so Rex will need to figure out how to get to Ben w/o Sizzle

next, Rolle can hardly walk....first time he shows up on the field(if he does), Ben should go double move and over the top of him for a likely score--Holmes should be able to blow by him, no problem

and if he can't go, it means Frank f'in Walker starts oposite Washington---where Ben should go double move and over the top...you know the rest--do not be afraid of Frank Walker

once Pittsburgh opens up a 17-3 lead in the 2nd quarter, expect Cam to throw the kitchen sink out there---I don't expect too much McClain/McGahee, but rather expect(hope for!) a solid dose of Ray Rice...I like 15 touches for Rice tomorrow, as there will be plenty of time for no huddle or hurry up and him seeing some checkdown work

also expect to see a couple Troy Smith packages in, a fake kick and some stuff we haven't seen yet this year...the point is I see more O out of the Ravens than we have the last couple weeks, and with Pitts moving the ball---and they will---I'm not shocked to see something in the 27-13 range, minimum, and maybe as many as 50 scored in this one

IF Rex Ryan schemes something the Steelers O-line struggles to handle, then the Blackbirds have an outside shot at comming out on top...but I still see this over the 34 as the loser gets into the mid-teens

the season has been more than anyone could have sanely predicted, and I'm looking forward to many more ACF championship games against :unsure:
:popcorn: For those that don't watch them often & know what they know from ESPN, most of what the Ravens are able to do on D keys off of Suggs & their CBs. Suggs' ability to pressure the QB allows the Ravens to only rush 4 or 5 - it seems like a 1,000 guys are coming from the other side, but it's who's coming that mystifies guys like Romo, not how many. And the CBs (when Rolle & McAlister are playing) being able to play MTM allow Ed Reed & the SS (& Ray Lewis) to do their things. Not having Suggs & Rolle at full strength are major, major blows to what the Ravens can do on D.

Rex is going to earn his money (not like he hasn't already) this week if he can find a way to control the Steelers' O.

 
Just for a little kumbaya moment here:

good to see peoples in here getting along for the most part. Big fan of Roadkill and Uruk and others here. I guess it's a mutual respect type thing going on? Cause most of these type threads with the Clowns and the Bungholes (well, not those teams and playoff threads, but you know what I mean) wind up with a bunch of poo-flinging.

For the record: I am worried about tomorrow's game. The Ravens always put a little worry in me, as no matter who's supposed 'year' it is to shine, these two teams kick the bejeezus out of each other nearly every time.

So here's to a good game and here's one :stirspot: for the cool Ravens fans who post on here.

 
Just for a little kumbaya moment here:

good to see peoples in here getting along for the most part. Big fan of Roadkill and Uruk and others here. I guess it's a mutual respect type thing going on? Cause most of these type threads with the Clowns and the Bungholes (well, not those teams and playoff threads, but you know what I mean) wind up with a bunch of poo-flinging.

For the record: I am worried about tomorrow's game. The Ravens always put a little worry in me, as no matter who's supposed 'year' it is to shine, these two teams kick the bejeezus out of each other nearly every time.

So here's to a good game and here's one :lmao: for the cool Ravens fans who post on here.
:stirspot:
 
For the record: I am worried about tomorrow's game. The Ravens always put a little worry in me, as no matter who's supposed 'year' it is to shine, these two teams kick the bejeezus out of each other nearly every time.
:useless: I feel good about the Steelers chances but the Ravens are a very tough team and extermely dangerous. This is going to be a bloodbath and I hope we come out on top.
 
For the record: I am worried about tomorrow's game. The Ravens always put a little worry in me, as no matter who's supposed 'year' it is to shine, these two teams kick the bejeezus out of each other nearly every time.
:useless: I feel good about the Steelers chances but the Ravens are a very tough team and extermely dangerous. This is going to be a bloodbath and I hope we come out on top.
I disagree. I think the Steelers win this one going away. I think the Ravens D is beat up and tired. And I just don't think Flacco is ready to put this team on his back yet, especially against this Steelers D. I think the Ravens are a very good team, but I just don't think they have much left in the tank.
 
I haven't felt this confident about an AFCC game since '94 against the Chargers ;)

The Steelers came from behind in Balt. and won in OT earlier this year so arguably they "have more in the tank" under normal circumstances... but with the Ravens suposedly tired and definately beaten up, I see the Steelers pulling away at some point in the game. Multiple Steeler turnovers, or an early lead by Balt is the only way I can see Balt winning this game.

 
While at the Pens game last night, they showed Jeff Reed on the Jumbotron, he was tan as could be with bleach blonde hair that resembled a Troll Doll. :lmao: :loco: ;)
Wow, just found THIS from last night.... :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
The guy he is with to his right was on my deck hockey team. We weren't very good.Pittsburgh homers, How much you think tickets will be going for close to kick off? Prices start around $200 at stubhub and steeler ticket exchange. Tickets online are ususally more expensive than what scalpers charge but I can't see them going down all that much.

Thoughts?

 
While at the Pens game last night, they showed Jeff Reed on the Jumbotron, he was tan as could be with bleach blonde hair that resembled a Troll Doll. :lmao: :loco: :shock:
Wow, just found THIS from last night.... :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
The guy he is with to his right was on my deck hockey team. We weren't very good.Pittsburgh homers, How much you think tickets will be going for close to kick off? Prices start around $200 at stubhub and steeler ticket exchange. Tickets online are ususally more expensive than what scalpers charge but I can't see them going down all that much.

Thoughts?
My tickets have a face value of $155/ea. If you get them for less than $200 from a scalper I think you would be doing pretty good unless you wait until kickoff.
 
I'm probably gonna spend a max of $200 on a ticket and hope it works out. I really don't want to watch it at a crowded north shore bar.

 
From SI.com daily newsletter today...Pancaking the mythAs the Steelers and Ravens prepare to square off for the third time—Pittsburgh won the first two meetings—don’t buy the theory that it’sdarn near impossible to beat a team three times in one season. Since the1970 merger, there have been 18 opportunities for teams to complete athree-game sweep—and they are 11-7 in those situations. The Steelers, bythe way, are 2-0 in previous opportunities to use the broom.YEAR SWEEP OPPORTUNITY THIRD MATCHUP1982 Dolphins defeat Jets, 14-0 AFC championship game1983 Seahawks lose to Raiders, 30-14 AFC championship game1986 Giants defeat Redskins, 17-0 NFC championship game1989 Oilers lose to Steelers, 26-23 (OT) Wild card game1991 Chiefs defeat Raiders, 10-6 Wild card game1992 Chiefs lose to Chargers, 17-0 Wild card game1993 Raiders defeat Broncos, 42-24 Wild card game1994 Steelers defeat Browns, 29-9 Divisional round game1994 Vikings lose to Bears, 35-18 Wild card game1997 Patriots defeat Dolphins, 17-3 Wild card game1997 Packers defeat Buccaneers, 21-7 Divisional round game1998 Cowboys lose to Cardinals, 20-7 Wild card game1999 Titans defeat Jaguars, 33-14 AFC championship game2000 Giants defeat Eagles, 20-10 Divisional round game2002 Steelers defeat Browns, 36-33 Wild card game2004 Rams defeat Seahawks, 27-20 Wild card game2004 Packers lose to Vikings, 31-17 Wild card game2007 Cowboys lose to Giants, 21-17 Divisional round game
From me, nearly a week ago, in this thread:
There have been 18 previous instances in the NFL playoffs of a team playing an opponent it has beaten twice already that year.The team that won the first two games has won the third game 11 out of 18 games (61%)When at home and with a better record, the results improve to 9-4 (69%)
In addition, when this situation arises in conference championships, the team with the opportunity to sweep is 3-1:1982-83 MIA 14 NYJ 0 (MIA defeats NYJ for third time, at home, with better record -- 8 teams made playoffs in nine-game strike season)1983-84 Raiders 30 SEA 14 (SEA loses after defeating Raiders first two times, but game was on road, Raiders had better record)1986-87 NYG 17 WASH 0 (NYG defeat WASH for third time, at home, with better record)1999-2000 TENN 33 JAX 14 (TENN defeats JAX for third time, on road, with better record)From this very limited data set, there will be little statistical significance, but what we can deduce is:Home teams in conference championships that swept two regular season games are 2-0 in these "third" gamesTeams with better records that swept two regular season games are 3-0 in these "third" gamesThe only loss in a "third" game occurred when the 9-7 Seahawks played at the 12-4 Raiders.
 
I'm probably gonna spend a max of $200 on a ticket and hope it works out. I really don't want to watch it at a crowded north shore bar.
I think you might be okay but there are a bunch of bars to choose from within walking distance if it doesn't pan out for you. Good luck.
 
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Baltimore is going to punch the Steelers in da mouf! I'm just saying....

I predict Big Ben doesn't finish this game.

 
AhrnCityPahnder said:
Just for a little kumbaya moment here:

good to see peoples in here getting along for the most part. Big fan of Roadkill and Uruk and others here. I guess it's a mutual respect type thing going on? Cause most of these type threads with the Clowns and the Bungholes (well, not those teams and playoff threads, but you know what I mean) wind up with a bunch of poo-flinging.

For the record: I am worried about tomorrow's game. The Ravens always put a little worry in me, as no matter who's supposed 'year' it is to shine, these two teams kick the bejeezus out of each other nearly every time.

So here's to a good game and here's one :banned: for the cool Ravens fans who post on here.
:goodposting: For myself, it's a respect thing. Some of the most knowledgeable & fair posters here are Stiller fans (some of the goofiest too, but in a population as large as the Pitt contingent here that's to be expected): we can discuss the game in-depth without a slap fight. I've learned a lot about what the Steeler faithful think about this game from this thread & it has caused me to re-think some things. So, thanks back atcha to the Steeler faithful here for being above the 4th grade stuff that all too often dominates these threads.

 
For myself, it's a respect thing. Some of the most knowledgeable & fair posters here are Stiller fans (some of the goofiest too, but in a population as large as the Pitt contingent here that's to be expected): we can discuss the game in-depth without a slap fight. I've learned a lot about what the Steeler faithful think about this game from this thread & it has caused me to re-think some things. So, thanks back atcha to the Steeler faithful here for being above the 4th grade stuff that all too often dominates these threads.
Agreed. Between EvilGrin, Godsbrother, Ahrn, The Jerk, etc. there are good :goodposting: homers who can come with the analysis of the Stillers and be pretty objective about it. Special shout-out to Sheriff for his avatar and links, for which I think we're ALL grateful. :lmao:
 
AhrnCityPahnder said:
Just for a little kumbaya moment here:

good to see peoples in here getting along for the most part. Big fan of Roadkill and Uruk and others here. I guess it's a mutual respect type thing going on? Cause most of these type threads with the Clowns and the Bungholes (well, not those teams and playoff threads, but you know what I mean) wind up with a bunch of poo-flinging.

For the record: I am worried about tomorrow's game. The Ravens always put a little worry in me, as no matter who's supposed 'year' it is to shine, these two teams kick the bejeezus out of each other nearly every time.

So here's to a good game and here's one :banned: for the cool Ravens fans who post on here.
:popcorn: For myself, it's a respect thing. Some of the most knowledgeable & fair posters here are Stiller fans (some of the goofiest too, but in a population as large as the Pitt contingent here that's to be expected): we can discuss the game in-depth without a slap fight. I've learned a lot about what the Steeler faithful think about this game from this thread & it has caused me to re-think some things. So, thanks back atcha to the Steeler faithful here for being above the 4th grade stuff that all too often dominates these threads.
Both teams have their homer boards for all the "We're gonna smack them in the mouth and win by 30" talk. I like to come here to hear from people (on both sides) who have insight and offer objective analysis about the game.
 
AhrnCityPahnder said:
Just for a little kumbaya moment here:

good to see peoples in here getting along for the most part. Big fan of Roadkill and Uruk and others here. I guess it's a mutual respect type thing going on? Cause most of these type threads with the Clowns and the Bungholes (well, not those teams and playoff threads, but you know what I mean) wind up with a bunch of poo-flinging.

For the record: I am worried about tomorrow's game. The Ravens always put a little worry in me, as no matter who's supposed 'year' it is to shine, these two teams kick the bejeezus out of each other nearly every time.

So here's to a good game and here's one :lmao: for the cool Ravens fans who post on here.
:thumbup: For myself, it's a respect thing. Some of the most knowledgeable & fair posters here are Stiller fans (some of the goofiest too, but in a population as large as the Pitt contingent here that's to be expected): we can discuss the game in-depth without a slap fight. I've learned a lot about what the Steeler faithful think about this game from this thread & it has caused me to re-think some things. So, thanks back atcha to the Steeler faithful here for being above the 4th grade stuff that all too often dominates these threads.
Both teams have their homer boards for all the "We're gonna smack them in the mouth and win by 30" talk. I like to come here to hear from people (on both sides) who have insight and offer objective analysis about the game.
:shrug: I cringe every time I see that crap. Thank God the Cowboys are eliminated (everybody owes the Ravens a debt of gratitude for their part in this).
 
I admit I sometimes run smack, but 99.9% of the time I'm rising to bait thrown out there by fans of rivals. I can't help myself sometimes.

However, when fans of the opposition comport themselves the way the Ravens fans in this thread have, you'll hear no garbage from me. I'll be humble and congratulatory, whether todays game ends in victory or defeat for the Steelers. There's been some terrific analysis and game breakdown by the Ravens fans in this thread.. really good stuff.

Yous guys is all right.

 

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