–The Steelers are reportedly fielding trade offers for running back Le’Veon Bell, who is holding out. As a result, it appears unlikely that he will be in the lineup Sunday night.
The Ravens, however, are not taking anything for granted and are preparing as if the Steelers will be at full strength.
“Wait and see, wait and see; we’ll prepare for their offense,” head coach John Harbaugh said. “Of course, their running backs that they’re playing now, James Conner and Co., that’s who we’ll looking at mainly. But, we’ve seen Le’Veon enough to understand what he brings to the table and how he affects what they do.”
–There has already been widespread criticism over some questionable roughing the passer penalties this season.
Both Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco and Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger will likely be under pressure for much of their matchup Sunday night. However, the defense for both teams must be careful not to get careless penalties that could affect the outcome of the game.
“If he ends up flopping or trying to extend when I got him in a bear hug, I’m going to fight him on the field and we’ll both get kicked out,” Ravens safety Eric Weddle joked about hitting Roethlisberger.
–Ravens kicker Justin Tucker was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week after converting two 52-yard field goals during the Ravens’ 27-14 victory against the Denver Broncos. It’s the eighth time Tucker has won the award. Tucker made eight straight field goals of 50 yards or more. He has also made 36 field goals from 50 yards or beyond since entering the NFL in 2012.
“Justin is a unique character in a lot of different ways, and his kicking style is his kicking style,” coach John Harbaugh said. “He works within the way he knows how to swing, and something that’s ever-evolving is he’s always working on something to try to make it better.”
BY THE NUMBERS: 12 — Number of touchdowns the Ravens have scored in as many trips to the red zone this season, an NFL record.