Ravens-Steelers: It's Only One Game, but the Steelers Can Ruin Ravens' Season

The first game of the season usually doesn't make or break a team's season.  So, yes, the Steelers and Ravens can both claim the typical advantages if they win Game 1: (1) "Get off to a good start," (2) "Get one step ahead in the AFC North race," (3) "Build some momentum for Game 2 and the first quarter of this season."  But, that is all coach-speak, and this is not your typical first game.

The way this rivalry has played out over the years makes this opener very different and one that could put each team on a very different path. 

Over the past few years, the games between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens have vaulted to the national stage.  A divisional rivalry has now become a national spotlight match-up between two physical, angry, talented, competitive and hard-hitting rivals.  This year, these beasts of the AFC North (and the entire NFL) meet in Game 1 of the 2011 Season!

Though each of the games have been competitive and usually come down to the wire, the Steelers have had better overall results, especially in playoff-caliber games, and games started by the Steelers' Die Hard QB, Ben Roethlisberger.  Because of this recent history, it is my opinion that the Steelers hold all of the cards when it comes to having the potential to do more than just win Game 1.  I believe the Steelers have the potential to not only land more punches in this fight, but to land a fatal knockout blow.

Coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers are in a unique position to send the Ravens a message; one that could have them questioning their entire season after just the first game.  Yes, I know, players and coaches are all professional, and one would think they could rebound after the first game.  But, you have to admit that a home loss to the Steelers would leave a lot of the Ravens' players with doubts about being able to get past their Black and Gold rivals in 2011. 

One could argue and outline which team has improved on Offense or Defense in the off-season, and which team should have clear advantages at each critical position.  But, these games somehow always come down to the wire, and we can only hope that the Steelers squeeze out a win on the road—ideally with a late-game Flacco turnover—and this one will mean more than any other first game with a divisional opponent.  A Steelers victory in Game 1 will plant another seed of doubt in the Ravens' heads about their chances to get out of the AFC North and accomplish any of their bigger goals this season.