AFC North rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens, get ready to go at it again in Week 11. For teams known for hard-hitting defenses, there have been thrilling finishes and some of the most unforgettable moments in Steelers vs. Ravens history. Here’s a look back at three of the most epic games in this storied rivalry.
1. 2008 AFC Championship Game

- Final Score: Steelers 23, Ravens 14
- Date: January 18, 2009
- Location: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA
Why It’s Epic: With a trip to Super Bowl XLIII on the line, this game featured two of the league’s top defenses in a bruising battle. The Steelers had already beaten the Ravens twice that season, but as any fan knows, beating a team three times in one year is no easy feat.
It was a defensive slugfest from the beginning. The Pittsburgh defense came out hot, setting the tone early; at the forefront of the action was safety Troy Polamalu. Polamalu was nothing short of spectacular, topping it off with a 40-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter that finally sealed the win for the Steelers. Many times, this is referred to as one of the defining moments of his Hall of Fame career.
Statistically, the dominating Steelers’ defense was forcing three turnovers and sacking the rookie quarterback Joe Flacco three times. Previously impressive throughout the playoffs, Flacco finished with just 141 passing yards and an abysmal passer rating of 18.2. The only touchdown of the Ravens came from a run by Willis McGahee, but it wasn’t enough to keep the persistent Pittsburgh defense off of his team’s back.
2. Thanksgiving Classic (2013 Season)

- Final Score: Ravens 22, Steelers 20
- Date: November 28, 2013
- Location: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD
Why It’s Epic: There’s something extra special about games on Thanksgiving night, and this one was no exception. With both teams fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive, it added seriousness to an already serious rivalry.
An early 13-0 halftime advantage came as quarterback Joe Flacco connected with Torrey Smith on a touchdown. But the Steelers would not go quietly. Led by the arm of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who had two touchdown passes in the second half to wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders and running back Le’Veon Bell, respectively.
One of the game’s most memorable moments came in the fourth quarter when Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin innocently stepped onto the field during a Jacoby Jones kickoff return, potentially impairing his progress. The incident really became highly controversial and added another layer of drama to the game itself.
The Steelers tried holding the game in their grasp, but the Ravens’ defense simply could not be overcome. A late touchdown made Pittsburgh come within two points, but a failed two-point conversion attempt sealed the win for Baltimore. It was just indicative of how razor-thin margins often determine this rivalry.
3. The “Immaculate Extension” (2016 Season)

- Final Score: Steelers 31, Ravens 27
- Date: December 25, 2016
- Location: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA
Why It’s Epic: The actual AFC North title was on the line in this Christmas Day showdown, and arguably one of the biggest regular-season games ever in the rivalry between these clubs. In many ways, it lived up to the billing, turning into a thrilling, back-and-forth fight.
The Ravens had a 20-10 advantage early in the fourth quarter before the Steelers tallied two quick scores, one on a 7-yard pass from Roethlisberger to Bell. Baltimore countered with a score of its own, taking the lead back 27-24 with just over a minute remaining.
Roethlisberger then engineered a masterful drive, moving the Steelers down the field with precision. With nine seconds remaining, he found Antonio Brown at the Ravens’ 1-yard line. With defenders all around, Brown reached the ball over the goal line in a play that has since been labeled the “Immaculate Extension.” The score clinched the division title for Pittsburgh and is remembered as one of the most dramatic moments in the rivalry.
Statistically, Roethlisberger threw for 279 yards and three touchdowns, while Brown had ten receptions for 96 yards and the game-winning score. There were five lead changes in the game, reflecting the teams’ resiliency and determination.
Steelers Vs. Ravens Week 11

With the Steelers and Ravens about to renew their rivalry in 2024’s Week 11, fans can watch out for yet another hard-fought battle. History such as this only acts as a pointer to rise to an occasion with games that are full of thrills and unpredictability, be it a defensive tussle or an offensive shootout. Steelers-Ravens games entertain. Here’s to the next chapter in this epic rivalry!
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