PITTSBURGH — We’ve got a classic Steelers-Ravens duel on our hands, as Pittsburgh took a 9-7 halftime lead over Baltimore in a first half that was dominated by defense.
The Steelers led for most of the first half before trailing briefly following Derrick Henry’s short touchdown run late in the half. Pittsburgh re-gained the lead, however, moments later after defensive lineman Keeanu Benton forced a fumble of tight end Isaiah Likely that set up Chris Boswell’s third field goal of the half.
Boswell’s first field goal was set up by Henry’s fumble (after being stripped by Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig) on the game’s second play. Henry later responded by scoring the game’s first touchdown that was set up by his 31-yard run late in the first half.
Baltimore had two other scoring chances in the first half, but both chances ended with missed field goals by Justin Tucker. Fortunately for the Ravens, their defense limited the damages of those misses by applying constant pressure on Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson, who was sacked four times in the first half. Odafe Oweh loomed large with 2.5 sacks.
Wilson’s counterpart, Lamar Jackson, also had a forgettable first half. The NFL’s reigning MVP was just 7 of 17 passing in the game’s first 30 minutes.
Be sure to check out our live blog below, where we’ll be providing updates, highlights and analysis throughout the second half.