In a game that underscored his role as a pivotal influence, Aaron Rodgers demonstrated why the Pittsburgh Steelers invested in the seasoned quarterback with a one-year contract last summer. After two challenging years with the New York Jets, Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, was motivated to prove that he still possessed the skill to command the field effectively. At 42 years old, he delivered a season-high performance, passing for 294 yards and culminating with a 26-yard touchdown to Calvin Austin III with just 55 seconds left on the clock.
That final play secured the Steelers' first AFC North division championship in half a decade, edging out the Baltimore Ravens 26-24 in a contest that hinged on a last-second missed field goal. Tyler Loop of the Ravens attempted a 44-yard kick as time expired, but his effort went wide right, triggering an outpouring of relief and celebration from the Steelers. The win improved Pittsburgh’s record to 10-7 and set the stage for a crucial first-round playoff game at home against the 12-5 Houston Texans on January 12, with hopes of ending a nearly ten-year postseason victory drought.
Reflecting on the significance of the win, Rodgers noted the surge of confidence it injected into the team’s psyche. The Steelers had to overcome strong pushes from Lamar Jackson and the Ravens throughout the game, emphasizing their resilience and collective belief.
Despite Rodgers’ decisive late-game mastery, Baltimore remained a threat to reclaim momentum late in the fourth quarter. Jackson connected with Isaiah Likely for a substantial 28-yard gain that brought the Ravens within field goal range. However, Loop’s miss, uncharacteristic given his 30 successful kicks out of 33 attempts prior to that moment, sealed Baltimore’s fate and maintained Pittsburgh’s advantage.
Loop candidly acknowledged his mishit, describing it as "hitting it thin," a poignant representation of a season that began with high hopes but faltered in its final stretch. Jackson’s efforts were notable; despite contending with a painful back contusion, he completed passes for 238 yards and threw three touchdowns, including two long scores to Zay Flowers in the fourth quarter, both over 50 yards, that temporarily reclaimed the lead for the Ravens.
The Ravens' campaign, however, culminated in disappointment as their aspirations of a third consecutive AFC North title evaporated. Jackson expressed surprise and frustration at the loss, refraining from speculation about his future with the team.
The Steelers started the game trailing by 10 points, evoking memories of last season's playoff defeat to Baltimore. Nonetheless, the Pittsburgh defense, which had endured challenges containing Derrick Henry in the past, fought back effectively. Henry, though finishing with 126 rushing yards and joining an elite group of NFL rushers by surpassing 13,000 career yards, was largely contained during a second half that evolved into a high-scoring exchange.
Jackson’s initial touchdown to Flowers was a display of skill, eluding defenders before connecting with the wide receiver, giving the Ravens an early lead. The Steelers responded late in the game when Kenny Gainwell rushed for a 2-yard touchdown with under four minutes remaining, putting Pittsburgh temporarily ahead.
The Ravens countered swiftly, with Jackson finding a wide-open Flowers for a 64-yard touchdown, testing Pittsburgh’s resolve. Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt, returning from surgery for a collapsed lung, intercepted a pass earlier in the game and maintained a composed outlook, recognizing Rodgers’ capability to manage game-winning drives.
Rodgers guided a methodical 65-yard, six-play drive that concluded with the touchdown to Austin, himself unmarked after a defensive lapse by Baltimore. Following this, Steelers kicker Chris Boswell missed his first extra point of the season, which allowed the Ravens a window for victory. Baltimore appeared set to capitalize before Loop’s decisive miss.
Coach Mike Tomlin equaled franchise legend Chuck Noll’s record with his 193rd regular-season win, reinforcing his status as a longstanding and effective leader. In his postgame remarks, Tomlin acknowledged the team's endurance and reciprocal tenacity throughout the campaign. The Steelers now prepare to leverage that resilience as they face the Texans in their playoff opener.
Injuries marked the game as well, with Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton exiting due to a concussion sustained after a collision. His absence coincided with a surge in Pittsburgh’s passing attack.
Looking ahead, the Ravens face an extended offseason to recalibrate and address challenges, while Jackson’s age and current prime years offer some optimism for future competitiveness. Pittsburgh's immediate focus turns to their playoff match against Houston, seeking to break a longstanding period without postseason wins, a drought extending over five decades.