The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a tough 34-17 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, marking their second consecutive defeat against a top-tier NFL team. Baltimore played the type of football Pittsburgh aspires to: running the ball effectively, forcing turnovers, and capitalizing on opportunities.

Despite the lopsided score, the Steelers had chances to shift the game’s momentum. Early on, they forced two fumbles but failed to recover either. On Baltimore’s first possession, Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith burst through the offensive line, sacking Lamar Jackson and forcing a fumble. Unfortunately for Pittsburgh, Baltimore recovered. Later, on the Steelers’ opening possession, a punt put former Steeler Desmond King into action. James Pierre ripped the ball from King on the return, but the fumble rolled forward and was once again recovered by Baltimore. The Ravens not only avoided disaster but also flipped the script.

They capitalized on two turnovers by Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson, converting both into touchdowns. The first key moment came in the second quarter with the game tied 7-7. Wilson led the Steelers deep into Ravens territory, scrambling from the 23-yard line to the 4 before being hit and fumbling the football. Baltimore scooped up the loose ball and proceeded to march 96 yards down the field for a touchdown, swinging the game decisively in their favor.

Pittsburgh’s defense fought back, with Minkah Fitzpatrick securing a critical interception in the red zone as the Ravens threatened to extend their lead. However, the Steelers’ offense immediately squandered the opportunity. Wilson threw a costly pick-six to Marlon Humphrey, who returned it for a touchdown, all but sealing the Ravens’ commanding victory.

Baltimore’s stars shined bright, with players who have historically struggled against Pittsburgh delivering standout performances. Lamar Jackson had a near-flawless outing, completing 15 of 23 passes for 207 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Derrick Henry punished the Steelers’ defense, rushing 24 times for 164 yards, while Mark Andrews finally broke through against Pittsburgh, recording four catches for 37 yards and a touchdown—his first against the Steelers in 10 games. While the game felt closer than the final score indicated, Baltimore proved they were the superior team.

Adding to Pittsburgh’s woes, rookie cornerback Joey Porter Jr. exited with a knee injury. His availability for Wednesday’s Christmas showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs is doubtful. The Steelers are hopeful for the return of key players, including George Pickens, Larry Ogunjobi, Donte Jackson, and DeShon Elliott, to bolster their roster.

The quick turnaround leaves little room for reflection as the Steelers prepare for a Christmas game at home. On Thursday night games, Pittsburgh boasts a strong 7-2 home record, while the Chiefs are 3-3 on the road. This Christmas Day game follows a similar timeline, adding to the pressure.

If Pittsburgh hopes to avoid a three-game skid, they’ll need to get healthy, clean up their mistakes, find consistency on offense, and rediscover their defensive dominance. A critical moment in the season looms. The Steelers, once briefly mentioned among the AFC’s best, now face familiar conversations as a potential first-round playoff exit.

Personally, I think such doubts are an overreaction, but they’re not entirely unwarranted. It’s time for the Steelers to prove where they belong.