The Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens rivalry is one of the most intense and storied rivalries in professional sports. This fierce competition has consistently delivered hard-hitting, high-stakes defensive football that has captured the hearts of fans and pundits alike for decades.
In 2005, Sports Illustrated recognized the significance of the Steelers-Ravens rivalry by ranking it as the second-best NFL rivalry in their list of "Top 10 New NFL Rivalries." This acknowledgment was just the beginning, as the rivalry continued to grow in intensity and importance.
By 2015, Bleacher Report elevated the Steelers-Ravens rivalry even further, designating it as the number one rivalry in the entire NFL. This coveted ranking highlighted the enduring nature of this fierce competition and solidified its place in football history.
Historical Series And Playoff Showdowns
The historical series between the Steelers and the Ravens has been closely contested, with the Steelers leading the overall series with a record of 34–25. When it comes to postseason matchups, the Steelers have maintained a decisive advantage, holding a 3–1 record against their rivals in the playoffs.
What makes this rivalry even more compelling is that both teams in the AFC North have tasted Super Bowl success. The Steelers boast an impressive six Super Bowl titles, while the Ravens have secured two championships. Remarkably, both franchises have added two Super Bowl victories each since their intense rivalry began, underscoring their championship pedigree. They are the only two teams in the AFC North to have won a Super Bowl.
One of the most enduring moments in this fierce rivalry involved Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs allegedly placing a "bounty" on the head of Steelers wide receiver, Hines Ward. It's worth noting that Suggs later clarified that his remarks were intended as a joke, devoid of any malicious intent. The NFL conducted a thorough investigation, ultimately clearing Suggs of any wrongdoing. Nevertheless, this incident has left a lasting mark in the annals of this rivalry's history.
Former Steelers Safety Ryan Clark's Perspective
Former Steelers safety Ryan Clark, who played a pivotal role in this rivalry, recently shared his perspective on the intense battles with the Ravens on his social media platform. He emphasized the physicality of the games and the mutual respect that defined the rivalry.
"The Steelers-Ravens rivalry will never be matched. The physicality of those games played out as hate, but in truth, it was about respect. We walked into each of those games both thinking we were the best defense on the planet, and knowing that the only way to prove it was to outplay the only other team that could lay claim to that title. The difference was razor-thin, and one mistake could cost your team the championship. There was a healthy fear associated with every play. More than anything, we knew those black & purple jerseys were littered with defensive Hall of Famers; after a while, we learned they felt the same way."
Among one of the most terrifying forces in this rivalry was Ravens safety Ed Reed. Reed's induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019 showcased his exceptional career and impact on the game. Known for his ability to deliver hard hits, intercept passes and return them for touchdowns, Reed was a game-changer on the field.
Ed Reed's Endorsement
In a recent podcast episode of The Pivot hosted by Clark, Reed took the opportunity to discuss the rivalry and offer high praise to his former rival. Reed went as far as to endorse Clark as a Hall of Famer.
"I don’t think you get the credit you deserve as a safety or as an athlete. I know you, but I also know what you put into the game. My mental game was strong, but yours was just as strong. You knew the game inside and out. There’s a reason why you're sitting in that chair today, bro, so I commend you. You are not getting the recognition that you deserve, but I know it. Future Hall of Famer."
Ryan Clark's Legacy
Clark played eight of his 13 NFL seasons with the Steelers, contributing significantly to the team's success. He amassed 12 interceptions, three forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, and 667 tackles during his career in Pittsburgh. While Clark will likely never enter the Hall of Fame officially, his impact as a Steeler and as a respected football analyst remains undeniable. Known for his reliability and completeness as a safety, Clark's contributions to the game continue to be celebrated.
In the end, it's fascinating to see two electric safeties like Clark and Reed revisit their rivalry years, reflecting on the intensity and respect that defined their epic clashes on the gridiron. Their mutual admiration serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Steelers-Ravens rivalry, a rivalry that will continue to captivate football fans for generations to come.
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