In the December 21, 2024 showdown at M&T Bank Stadium, the Ravens topped the Steelers 34–17 behind a balanced attack and opportunistic defense. Baltimore outgained Pittsburgh 418–315 in total yards and held a slight edge in possession (32:25 to 27:35). Lamar Jackson delivered a sharp passing display (15/23, 207 yards, 3 TD) while Derrick Henry powered the ground game with 162 yards on 24 carries. On the other side, Russell Wilson went 22/33 for 217 yards and 2 TDs, and Najee Harris managed 42 rushing yards on 9 attempts as Pittsburgh struggled to sustain drives against a swarming Ravens defense.
Short Introduction
I still remember the first time I watched these AFC North rivals clash. The intensity. The hit after hit. This steelers vs baltimore ravens match player stats breakdown peels back the curtain on who won the battles in the trenches, who made the big plays, and how each unit performed under the spotlight.
Why These Stats Matter for Fans
Statistics tell the story beyond the final score. They show who controlled tempo, which matchups tipped the field, and where each team excelled—or faltered. For USA sports enthusiasts, diving into these numbers is like watching the game with X-ray vision.
Key Statistic #1: Yardage Advantage
Baltimore amassed 418 total yards compared to Pittsburgh’s 315 yards, a +103-yard edge that translated into sustained drives and scoring opportunities FOX Sports.
How It Helps Analyze Performance
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Yardage dominance often correlates with win probability.
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It highlights which unit—offense or defense—won more individual matchups.
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Fans get insight into play-calling effectiveness and execution.
| Category | Steelers | Ravens |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 315 | 418 |
| Yards Per Play | 5.2 | 6.7 |
| Time of Possession | 27:35 | 32:25 |
| Third-Down Conversion | 40% (4/10) | 40% (4/10) |
Common Misconceptions About Stat Lines
Numbers can mislead if taken out of context. Let’s debunk a couple of myths.
Myth #1 Debunked: Big Yardage Always Means Big Plays
“If a team racks up yards, they must’ve hit long bombs.”
Not so. Baltimore’s 418 yards came through methodical drives. Jackson hit several medium-range throws, and Henry ground out chunks between the tackles.
Breaking Down the Passing Game
Passing stats reveal the chess match between quarterbacks and defenses.
Lamar Jackson’s Efficient Day
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15/23 passing for 207 yards and 3 touchdowns.
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Also chipped in 24 rushing attempts for 162 yards, showcasing his dual-threat value.
Russell Wilson’s Solid—but Not Enough—Effort
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Went 22/33 for 217 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT.
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Took 3 sacks for 19 yards lost, indicating Baltimore’s pass rush impact.
Ground Game Analysis
The rushing attack often sets the tone. Here’s how each back fared.
Derrick Henry’s Forceful Run Day
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24 carries, 162 yards, 6.8 yards per carry.
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His bruising style wore down the Steelers’ front, opening lanes late in the game.
Najee Harris Facing a Stout Defense
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9 attempts, 42 yards, 4.7 yards per carry.
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Took a back seat to Jaylen Warren (17 attempts for 75 yards), showing Pittsburgh’s backfield rotation.
| Rusher | Attempts | Yards | YPC | TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Derrick Henry | 24 | 162 | 6.8 | 0 |
| Najee Harris | 9 | 42 | 4.7 | 0 |
| Jaylen Warren | 17 | 75 | 4.4 | 0 |
Defensive Highlights
Turnovers and pressure influenced the final tally.
Key Takeaway: Turnover Margin
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Baltimore forced 2 fumbles (recovering 1) and had 1 interception.
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Pittsburgh managed 1 interception but lost 1 fumble, ending +1 in Baltimore’s favor.
Sacks and Pressures
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Ravens recorded 4 sacks, disrupting Wilson’s rhythm.
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Steelers pressured Jackson into 1 sack, highlighting Baltimore’s quick release.
Best Practices for Analyzing Stats
When you dive into steelers vs baltimore ravens match player stats, follow these steps:
Step-by-Step Guide
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Identify Key Metrics: Look at yardage, efficiency (YPC, YPA), and turnovers.
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Compare to Season Averages: See who overperformed or underperformed.
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Contextualize with Game Flow: Consider scoring drives, turnovers, and momentum swings.
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Watch the Tape: Use stats to highlight critical plays in video replays.
Personal Note: After studying this game’s box score, I rewatched Jackson’s second-quarter scramble—it’s a play you only catch once you know he exploded for 30 yards on a broken coverage.
Conclusion
The steelers vs baltimore ravens match player stats underscore Baltimore’s balanced attack and Pittsburgh’s fight despite tough breaks. From Jackson’s precision to Henry’s steamrolling runs—and Wilson’s valiant passing efforts—these numbers paint a rich narrative. Which stat surprised you most, and how will it shape the rematch?
