Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson expressed frustration following a narrow 18-16 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite gaining more yardage (329-303), the Ravens struggled with self-inflicted errors, committing 12 penalties and three turnovers. This latest defeat adds to a pattern of struggles against their AFC North rivals.
Jackson suggested that the Ravens were “too hyped” for the intense rivalry game. His comments hinted at a lack of composure, contributing to mistakes that proved costly, especially against a team like the Steelers, who managed to win without scoring a touchdown.
The loss marks the seventh time in the last eight meetings that the Steelers have defeated Baltimore, deepening the frustration for Jackson. Known for his ambitions to win a Super Bowl, he acknowledged that the team’s ongoing issues in high-stakes games remain a concern.
Although this wasn’t a playoff game, the matchup held significance due to the longstanding rivalry. Baltimore’s inability to capitalize on key moments has been a recurring theme, casting doubt on their postseason prospects despite a current 7-4 record.
Meanwhile, the Steelers lead the AFC North with an 8-2 record, tightening the competition for playoff positioning. Jackson’s assessment underscores the need for the Ravens to maintain focus and control emotions in crucial matchups.
Moving forward, the Ravens must address these recurring mistakes to ensure they can perform under pressure. If Jackson’s diagnosis is accurate, finding a way to “chill out” in pivotal games could be the key to their playoff success.
