The final game of the entire NFL regular season takes place this Sunday, when the Pittsburgh Steelers host the Baltimore Ravens—not only to close out a unique season, but more importantly, to decide the final playoff berth between these two division rivals. Here at PayPerHead, you’ll find our Ravens vs. Steelers prediction and everything you need to know before kickoff.
How to watch Ravens vs. Steelers
- Date: December, January 4
- Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
- Broadcast: NBC
- Venue: Acrisure Stadium
Ravens vs. Steelers Matchup Analysis
This marks the first time in the history of this rivalry that a Week 18 matchup serves as an actual winner-take-all game, determining who advances to the postseason and who goes home. Both teams arrive at the finale with significant questions.
Baltimore has looked inconsistent throughout the season, with stretches of unstable play and puzzling decisions. Despite having one of the league’s top quarterbacks and running backs on paper, the Ravens have struggled to find continuity. John Harbaugh’s team hasn’t fully resembled its best versions from previous years, and this season has felt uneven from start to finish.
Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley delivered a solid performance last week, leading Baltimore to a convincing win over the Packers (41-24). Derrick Henry was dominant in that game, rushing for 316 yards and four touchdowns. However, that level of offensive efficiency hasn’t always been there when Lamar Jackson is under center.
The Steelers, meanwhile, have secured yet another winning season under Mike Tomlin—his 19th consecutive year without a losing record. Still, that consistency hasn’t been enough to lock in a playoff spot, leaving Pittsburgh in a position where a win at home is mandatory. Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers leads the offense, though his performances this season have been far from consistent.
Ravens Form Heading Into Week 18
On December 7, the Ravens (8-8) fell to the Steelers 27-22 in their first meeting of the season, played in Baltimore. Now, they head to Pittsburgh needing a must-win result.
In their last five games, Baltimore has picked up two wins—against the Packers (41-24) and the
Bengals (24-0). Their losses came against the Steelers, Patriots (28-24), and Bengals as well (32-14).
Steelers Form Entering the Season Finale
The Steelers (9-7) sit atop the AFC North, but their recent form hasn’t inspired much confidence. Over their last five games, they’ve dropped key matchups against the Browns (13-6) and the Bills (26-7).
Their three wins during that stretch came against the Ravens (27-22), Dolphins (28-15), and Lions (29-24).
Ravens vs. Steelers Final Prediction
Given the current circumstances, the edge leans towards Pittsburgh, especially with Baltimore still unstable and with the season—and the playoffs—on the line. The Steelers’ home-field advantage could be decisive, though Lamar Jackson is confirmed to be back for this game and could change the outcome. Our prediction at PayPerHead: Steelers 33-27 Ravens.
