Steelers vs. Ravens: Batch sharp as Pittsburgh pulls upset

Published Sunday, Dec 2, 2012 at 7:49 pm EST
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BALTIMORE—Big game, big win for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

In a game they needed badly, the Steelers edged the Baltimore Ravens, 23-20, on Sunday—thanks to Shaun Suisham’s 42-yard field goal as time expired. The Steelers (7-5) snapped a two-game losing streak while winning their first game this season without Ben Roethlisberger, who missed his third straight contest. Charlie Batch played well in Roethlisberger’s place, making huge throws in the second half and leading the Steelers to a come-from-behind win.

Steelers vs. Ravens: Charlie Batch shows he can still win in the NFL. (AP Photo)

Meanwhile, Ravens star linebacker Terrell Suggs left the game late in the fourth quarter holding his arm. There was no immediate word on Suggs’ injury, but losing him would be a big issue for the Ravens (9-3), who are already without Ray Lewis.

Here are three things we learned from Sunday’s outcome:

1. This is not your daddy’s Ravens defense. Ed Reed had a huge interception, but for much of this game Steelers receivers found gaping holes in the Ravens’ secondary. Tight end Heath Miller ran wide open for several big catches. The Ravens got lucky when Steelers wideout Emmanuel Sanders fumbled away a potential TD after catching a pass wide open over the middle. However, the Steelers made enough big plays when it counted, and Batch had no trouble finding the weak spots in the Ravens’ defense.

2. The Steelers know how to win. With so many things stacked against them, the Steelers showed veteran leadership. They never lost their poise. James Harrison made a huge defensive play, a strip-sack of Joe Flacco that set up a fourth quarter touchdown. If the Steelers can get Roethlisberger back healthy and reach the playoffs, they will be a tough out.

3. Ravens vs. Steelers never gets old. No matter who is injured or where they play, Ravens-Steelers is always special. The games are close, and they are physical. It’s a great rivalry.