In the realm of the NFL, where superhuman feats are witnessed weekly, Lamar Jackson stands out as a one-of-a-kind talent. The Baltimore Ravens quarterback, known for his electrifying speed and improvisational brilliance, has taken the league by storm since being drafted in 2018. His unique skill set has befuddled defenses, leading to a unanimous NFL MVP award in just his second season. However, amidst his meteoric rise, one team has consistently proven to be Jackson’s kryptonite: the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Perplexing Pittsburgh Problem
While Jackson has compiled a stellar 37-12 record as a starter, his performances against the Steelers have been uncharacteristically lackluster. In four career starts against Pittsburgh, Jackson is 1-3, with a completion percentage of just 59.2% and a passer rating of 68.8 – far below his usual standards. Most concerning are his seven interceptions, more than he’s thrown against any other opponent. So what is it about the Steelers that causes Jackson, a bona fide superstar, to struggle?
Steelers’ Defensive Scheme
One factor may lie in Pittsburgh’s defensive approach. According to former Steelers cornerback Arthur Maulet, now with the Ravens, the Steelers focused on stopping Jackson on run option plays during his time there. By keying in on Jackson’s rushing ability, the Steelers aimed to make him beat them with his arm – a strategy that has yielded success.
Do you want me to tell you that secret?
– Arthur Maulet, Ravens cornerback, on the Steelers’ game plan against Lamar Jackson
Pressure and Pocket Presence
Another key aspect has been the Steelers’ relentless pressure. In four games, Pittsburgh has sacked Jackson 20 times, an average of five per contest. Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt, in particular, has been a thorn in Jackson’s side, registering 7.5 sacks and 14 hits in their matchups. This constant duress has forced Jackson into hurried throws and poor decisions, leading to turnovers.
Jackson’s struggles from the pocket against Pittsburgh are also notable. His QBR of 21.2 when inside the pocket versus the Steelers is his lowest against any team. However, this is an area where Jackson has shown marked improvement in 2024, completing a career-best 71.5% of his throws from the pocket.
The Path to Improvement
Despite his past difficulties, there are reasons for optimism as Jackson prepares to face the Steelers again. His growth as a passer, coupled with increased protection from his offensive line (just 13 sacks allowed this season), could help neutralize Pittsburgh’s pressure. Moreover, Jackson’s unparalleled playmaking ability means he’s always just one snap away from a game-changing moment.
I think Lamar has just been intentional about playing as well as he can across the board, and that’s a big part of it.
– John Harbaugh, Ravens head coach, on Jackson’s development
Rivalry Renewed
As the Ravens and Steelers prepare to clash again, with first place in the AFC North on the line, all eyes will be on Jackson. Can he finally solve the Steelers’ defense and lead Baltimore to a crucial victory? Or will Pittsburgh once again prove to be his Achilles’ heel?
Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain: the Ravens-Steelers rivalry, one of the NFL’s fiercest, will deliver another hard-hitting, high-stakes affair. And for Lamar Jackson, it represents an opportunity to conquer his greatest challenge yet and further cement his status as one of the game’s most dynamic playmakers.
