Mike Tomlin reveals the k-factor that cost the Steelers against the Ravens
Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers are starting to figure out their offseason plans. The Baltimore Ravens finished the season 28-14 on Saturday, which included what Tomlin called the “k-factor” that cost the Steelers.
Except this is no ordinary k-factor that Pittsburgh hasn’t seen before. Tomlin eavesdropped on who that player was during his postgame press conference at M&T Bank Stadium.
“The X-factor was Lamar’s unique talent…. They wore us out a bit. “The fatigue component became a factor,” Tomlin said.
Lamar as in Ravens All-Pro quarterback Lamar Jackson. Who is a known thorn in the side of Tomlin’s defense and the team. Jackson kicked into second gear to drain the oxygen from the Steelers.
Lamar Jackson had his way against the Steelers and Mike Tomlin
Two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Jackson shows new growth during the postseason. And his performance Saturday illuminated his maturity after the regular season.
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Jackson completed 16 of 21 passes for 175 yards. But he ran around the Steelers defense for 81 yards on 15 carries. He threw two touchdown passes to the Steelers defense – both coming during the first half.
Jackson found Rashod Bateman 15 yards for the opening touchdown of the night. He then delivered a short punt to Justice Hill that ended in a five-yard touchdown. However, that touchdown from Hill on a short yardage came with Jackson dancing around and avoiding pressure before returning.
The Ravens gained 464 total yards – with Jackson responsible for 256 yards. Jackson, more importantly for the Ravens, continues to rewrite their narrative in the postseason.
The veteran KB entered their homestand with a poor 2-4 record in playoff games. It lost its first two postseason games, then tasted defeat in its final playoff appearance — last season’s AFC title game. Now he’s won over Ravens fans by eliminating their most hated rival. And as Tomlin said, he left the Steelers tired.
2025-01-12 05:28:00
