In a commanding display during the Wild Card round, the Baltimore Ravens surged past the Pittsburgh Steelers with a decisive 28-14 victory. The Ravens' triumph was anchored by a remarkable first-half performance, which saw them sprint to a 21-0 lead before the Steelers managed to put points on the board.
Dominant Running Game
Baltimore's success on the ground was exemplified by their star running back, Derrick Henry, who delivered a stellar performance that will be etched in the annals of postseason history. Henry ran rampant, accumulating a staggering 186 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 26 carries. This was the highest total an opposing player had ever achieved against the Steelers in a playoff encounter.
Altogether, the Ravens amassed an impressive 299 rushing yards. Henry’s performance was not just pivotal; it was theatrical in its execution, drawing comparisons to cinematic spectacles. His counterpart, Lamar Jackson, mused on Henry's breathtaking display, referencing a beloved childhood film: "You're a little bit too old to watch 'Cars,' but anyway, it's for kids y'all. I was a kid when I watched 'Cars,' that's all I'm saying. You know when Lightning McQueen just flying, flashing past, and it's like zoom, zoom? That's how Derrick looked. He was running past, and all those guys just, it looked like a movie bro I'm not going to lie to you. I'd rather be watching it than being on the opposite side of the ball. I know that."
Path Ahead for the Ravens
With this victory, the Ravens advance in the playoffs, setting up a potential encounter with either the Houston Texans or the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Divisional Round. Their next opponent will be determined by the result of the match-up between the Denver Broncos and the Bills. If the Bills emerge victorious, the Ravens will travel to Buffalo; otherwise, they will host the Texans.
This postseason run positions the Ravens as formidable contenders, ready to take on any adversary as they progress further in the playoffs. The decisive win against the Steelers not only showcases their potential but also sets a daunting precedent for future opponents. Derrick Henry's powerhouse performance underscores the threat posed by Baltimore’s ground game, promising an exciting journey ahead as they aspire to achieve championship glory.