The Steelers pulled a rabbit out of the hat and beat the Ravens for the first time in five games! Led by veteran Charlie Batch the Steelers overcame a 10 point deficit.
A week after a lousy performance in Cleveland, Batch directed a 61 yard closing drive to setup a game winning field goal! The 15-year veteran went 25 for 36 for 276 yards, threw a touchdown and rallied the Steelers in a must-win game against their hated division rivals. He even threw the biggest block of the game springing Jonathon Dwyer. It was one of the best and most unlikely performances and it kept the Steelers playoff hopes alive.
The offensive line put together a great collective effort. Playing without two starters and having Maurkice Pouncey playing guard the line kept Batch upright. The running game was mediocre but the line’s protection schemes were nearly flawless. Especially, on the last drive where they had the Ravens on their heels. Max Starks roughed up Terrel Suggs and smacked him around all game. Kelvim Beachum held his own and put together a solid performance.
Heath Miller put together another outstanding game. He seemed to make all the big catches, including a 43-yard catch-and-run to set up the first touchdown and he made an amazing stretch for a TD to tie the game.
The biggest play on defense was by SILVERBACK. Who caused the game changing turnover and swung the momentum. He is becoming a force to be reckoned with again! Troy Polamalu was back which was great, unfortunately Ike Taylor was injured and he looks to be out for at least three weeks. Ryan Clark had the first pick of the game.
Batch was the story though and despite a shaky start he was the hero of the day!
Mike Tomlin also deserves credit because the Steelers were outmanned and outgunned but found a way to win! He even punked out John Harbaugh during the hand shake!
BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!!!
My “GAME BEER” goes to: Charlie Batch, a veteran who has done everything that has been asked of him! Also considered: Silverback, who caused the game changing turnover!
Where I watched the game: At the house with my son Dante. The beer of choice was Sam Winter which was perfect for the occasion. KGB joined us for the fourth quarter. We had pizzas from Luigi’s!
My Stat of the week: 276 Yards passing for Charlie Batch. That was the most yards thrown in his entire Steeler career! He saved the season before and he might have just done it again!
My thoughts on Next Week: The Steelers should rough up Phil Rivers and pull out a squeaker!