MIKE PRESTON’S KEY MATCHUPS
Steelers WR Antonio Brown vs. Ravens CB Jimmy Smith: Brown might be the best receiver in the NFL, with 48 catches for 592 yards and five touchdowns this season. If he catches the ball, he has to be tackled immediately because he can turn a short gain into a long one. Smith played well two weeks ago against the New York Jets’ Brandon Marshall, his best performance against a top receiver this year. It will be interesting to see whether he plays the same way against Brown, who is more elusive. Edge: Steelers
Steelers CBs William Gay and Ross Cockrell vs. Ravens WRs Steve Smith Sr. and Mike Wallace: The Steelers are ranked 26th in pass defense, allowing 283.4 yards per game, and they have had trouble getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. In the past, the Ravens have challenged and beaten the Steelers deep. That won’t change in today’s game; it’s just a matter of how many big plays Pittsburgh allows. Wallace would like to hit a home run or two against his former teammates. Edge: Ravens
Steelers LB Lawrence Timmons vs. Ravens OLs Alex Smith and Ronnie Stanley: Timmons leads the Steelers in tackles with 48, including 32 unassisted. He runs extremely well and has great pursuit. Smith can be stiff at times, but runs well and can make blocks into the second level. Stanley has missed the past four games — all losses — with a foot injury, so he might be scraping some rust off early in the game. If the Ravens are to win, they must neutralize Timmons. Edge: Steelers