Steelers’ Freiermuth Key to Upsetting Ravens in AFC Wild Card

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth could play a pivotal role in Saturday night’s AFC Wild Card matchup against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Despite a quiet season against the Ravens, Freiermuth’s recent performance surge has analysts eyeing him as a potential game-changer.

In the two regular-season meetings between the teams, Freiermuth managed just five receptions for 30 yards. However, over the past two weeks, he has emerged as a reliable target, catching 15 of 17 passes for 145 yards and a touchdown. ESPN analyst Matt Bowen emphasized the importance of Freiermuth exploiting the Ravens’ Cover 2 and Cover 3 schemes in the middle of the field. “Freiermuth can be an underneath outlet and chain-mover for Russell Wilson,” Bowen said. “He also has the ability to stretch the seams for explosive plays.”

Freiermuth’s recent uptick in production comes at a critical time. In Week 18 against the Cincinnati Bengals, he recorded eight receptions for 85 yards and a touchdown, despite a crucial fourth-down drop. Against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 17, he had seven catches for 60 yards but fumbled, leading to a Chiefs touchdown. These performances highlight both his potential and the need for consistency.

Historically, Freiermuth has struggled against the Ravens, averaging just 28.4 yards per game in seven career matchups. However, with the Steelers’ offense needing to generate first downs and explosive plays, Freiermuth’s ability to work the middle of the field could be a key factor. “Pittsburgh has to get first downs,” Bowen added. “But don’t forget about Freiermuth as a middle-of-the-field stretch option.”

If the Steelers can effectively utilize Freiermuth, it could open up opportunities for deep shots on the outside and create running lanes for their ground game. The path to an upset lies in leveraging Freiermuth’s recent momentum and targeting him against Baltimore’s defensive tendencies.