Ben Roethlisberger Picks Ravens Over Steelers in Wild-Card Showdown

Former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has made a surprising prediction ahead of Saturday’s NFL wild-card playoff game, picking the Baltimore Ravens to defeat his former team. Roethlisberger, a Steelers legend and future Hall of Famer, shared his thoughts on his podcast, ‘Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger,’ stating, ‘Ravens. Sorry,’ with a shrug.

Roethlisberger’s pick has sparked mixed reactions among Steelers fans. Some see it as a slight against his former team, while others interpret it as a motivational tactic to rally the Steelers. With 18 seasons as the face of the franchise, Roethlisberger is deeply familiar with the intense Ravens-Steelers rivalry. His choice to back the Ravens has added an intriguing layer to the highly anticipated matchup.

Roethlisberger also praised Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, ranking him as the top quarterback this season. ‘Lamar is on a different level right now,’ he said. Jackson, a two-time MVP, has led the Ravens to a dominant regular season, finishing third in first-half scoring and first in yards per play, according to TruMedia.

The Ravens’ offense, which struggled in last season’s AFC Championship Game, appears poised for a stronger playoff run this year. Baltimore Banner‘s Jonas Shaffer noted that Jackson and the Ravens’ attack are ‘better positioned than they’ve ever been to avoid playoff potholes.’ Shaffer highlighted Jackson’s improved ball security, with the quarterback leading the NFL in turnover-worthy-play rate at 1.4%.

Analysts and fans alike are optimistic about the Ravens’ postseason prospects. A panel of NFL.com writers predicted Baltimore would defeat the Detroit Lions in Super Bowl LIX, citing Jackson’s peak performance and the team’s elite defense. ‘This is the best version of the Ravens in the Jackson era,’ they wrote.

As the wild-card game approaches, all eyes will be on M&T Bank Stadium to see if Roethlisberger’s prediction holds true or if the Steelers can defy the odds and advance in the playoffs.