30 Facts About Steelers Vs. Ravens

The Rivalry Begins

The Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens rivalry is one of the most intense in the NFL. This fierce competition has produced countless memorable moments and continues to captivate fans.

1. The rivalry began in 1996 when the Ravens joined the NFL as an expansion team.
2. Both teams are known for their hard-hitting, physical style of play.
3. The Steelers and Ravens have met over 50 times in the regular season.
4. Their first meeting was on September 8, 1996, with the Steelers winning 31-17.
5. The rivalry is often considered one of the best in the NFL due to the consistently close and competitive games.

Memorable Games

Throughout the years, the Steelers and Ravens have played numerous unforgettable games. These matchups often have playoff implications and are filled with dramatic moments.

6. In 2008, the Steelers defeated the Ravens 23-14 in the AFC Championship game to advance to Super Bowl XLIII.
7. The 2010 AFC Divisional Playoff game saw the Steelers come back from a 21-7 halftime deficit to win 31-24.
8. On Christmas Day 2016, the Steelers clinched the AFC North title with a last-second touchdown to beat the Ravens 31-27.
9. The 2018 season opener featured a thrilling 26-14 victory for the Ravens in Pittsburgh.
10. In 2020, the Steelers won a nail-biter 28-24 on Thanksgiving, despite the game being postponed multiple times due to COVID-19.

Legendary Players

Both teams have had numerous legendary players who have left their mark on this rivalry. These athletes have become icons for their respective franchises.

11. Ray Lewis, a Hall of Fame linebacker, was a cornerstone of the Ravens' defense for 17 seasons.
12. Troy Polamalu, known for his incredible playmaking ability, was a key figure in the Steelers' secondary.
13. Ben Roethlisberger, the longtime Steelers quarterback, has led his team to many victories over the Ravens.
14. Ed Reed, another Hall of Fame safety, was known for his ball-hawking skills and game-changing plays.
15. Hines Ward, a physical wide receiver, often excelled in games against the Ravens.

Coaching Battles

The rivalry extends beyond the players to the coaching staff. The strategic battles between the head coaches have added another layer of intrigue to these matchups.

16. Bill Cowher, the Steelers' head coach from 1992 to 2006, had many memorable battles against the Ravens.
17. John Harbaugh has been the Ravens' head coach since 2008 and has faced the Steelers numerous times.
18. Mike Tomlin, the Steelers' head coach since 2007, has a winning record against the Ravens.
19. The rivalry has seen several assistant coaches move between the two teams, adding to the intrigue.
20. Both Harbaugh and Tomlin have won Super Bowls with their respective teams, showcasing their coaching prowess.

Fan Passion

The rivalry between the Steelers and Ravens is fueled by the passion of their fan bases. These fans are known for their loyalty and enthusiasm.

21. Steelers fans, known as the "Terrible Towel" wave their yellow towels at games to show support.
22. Ravens fans, often referred to as the "Ravens Flock," are known for their loud and intimidating presence at home games.
23. The rivalry games often sell out, with fans traveling from both cities to support their teams.
24. Social media is filled with banter and trash talk between Steelers and Ravens fans leading up to their matchups.
25. Tailgating before games is a popular tradition for both fan bases, adding to the game-day atmosphere.

Impact on the NFL

The Steelers vs. Ravens rivalry has had a significant impact on the NFL as a whole. These games often draw large television audiences and are frequently featured in prime-time slots.

26. The rivalry has been featured on Monday Night Football, Sunday Night Football, and Thursday Night Football.
27. Games between the Steelers and Ravens often have playoff implications, adding to the drama.
28. The physical nature of the games has led to rule changes aimed at player safety.
29. The rivalry has produced several Pro Bowl and All-Pro players.
30. The intense competition between the two teams has raised the level of play in the AFC North division.

The Rivalry's Legacy

Steelers vs. Ravens isn't just a game; it's a battle of grit and determination. Each matchup brings intense moments and memorable plays. From bone-crushing tackles to last-minute touchdowns, this rivalry has it all. Fans from both sides eagerly await these clashes, knowing they'll witness football at its finest. The passion and intensity on the field reflect the deep-rooted history between these teams. As the years go by, the legend of this rivalry only grows, adding more chapters to an already storied saga. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just love the game, Steelers vs. Ravens is a must-watch. It’s more than just a game; it’s a tradition that showcases the heart and soul of football. So, next time these teams face off, grab some popcorn and get ready for a thrilling ride.