Tenacious D: The Steelers Vs. Ravens In a Defensive Battle For a Super Bowl Bid

With the Steelers battling the Ravens on Sunday anticipation is mounting on the outcome. The stakes are high for the teams, who are facing each other for the third time this season, this time for a chance to play in the super.

Although the Steelers have emerged victorious in the first two meetings, the game seems up for grabs. It is evident that it will be a hard- fought battle between to of the top defenses in the NFL.

The Steelers, who have been notorious for a bone crushing defense throughout  passed decades, rank in the top five in both rushing yards allowed and total yards allowed. With defensive player of the year, James Harrison, the steeler's defensive coordinator, Dick Lebeau will look to put immense pressure on rookie quarter back Joe Flacco.

The Ravens are no slouch on defense either. They're hard-hitting defense ranks top ten in the NFL in total defense, rushing yeards allowed, and passing defense. The Ravens defense, led by perennial pro bowlers; Ed Reed and Ray Lewis, will look to force more of their league leading turnovers.

With two tough and similar defenses facing off, I feel that the offenses will be the key to a Super Bowl bid. With Steelers quarterback, Ben Rothlesberger playing inconsistently, and lights out running back, Willie Parker injured, the Steelers have the weaker offense.

The Ravens, Led by rookie quarterback, Joe Flacco and fullback/halfback Leron McClain have a safe, and conservative offense. Flacco, who has thrown 14 touchdowns to 12 interception, has consistnatly managed the games by leading all remaining playoff quarterbacks with a passer rating of 89.4.

It won't be an exciting game for those of us who appreciate great offenses but the Ravens will narrowly prevail, 17-14, over the slightly favored Steelers