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Normally In these articles I like to break down the matchup focusing on the opposing team. I cover topics like Who's the best player, what's the worst position group, and how will they try to attack the Steelers. This week, however is obviously much different than others, and instead of breaking down these usual topics I want to highlight some of the Baltimore Ravens emergency starters and how the Steelers can be successful again them.
Let’s get started!
QB - Robert Griffen III
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We start with the most well known of the replacement players. Robert Griffin III was the second overall pick back in 2012. Griffin is one of the three former Heisman Trophy winning players on the Ravens roster. RGIII’s last start came against the Steelers back in Week 17 of last season. He wasn't stellar through the air by any means but he led the Ravens to victory. In 2020 Griffin has only thrown two passes for nine yards and an interception.
The Steelers ability to put Griffin on the turf is the key this one. With a depleted offensive line the Steelers have really no excuse in notting getting to him. If the Steelers can build a lead and force the Ravens to throw the ball the Steelers can really t-off on the quarterback.
RB - Gus Edwards
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Gus Edwards is likely a starter on at least half of the teams in the NFL. By no means is he a scab player, and someone the Steelers need to take seriously. In 10 games Edwards has racked up 376 yards on the ground including his biggest day on the ground also against the Steelers where he went off for 87 yards.
The Steelers defense will likely overplay stopping the run and force RGIII to beat them with his arm. Shutting down Edwards is key but don't expect that to come easy as Edwards has gashed the Steelers many times in the past.
*Mark Ingram and JK Dobbins have been taken off the Covid/Reserve list but aren't expected to play.
FB - None
Patrick Ricard is the only fullback on the Ravens. However I suspect the Ravens will dress as another tight end. Either Eric Tomlinson or Sean Culkin should get the nod (possibly both) Don’t expect any power runs from Baltimore
TE - Luke Willson
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Luke Willson is the most experienced tight end on the Ravens practice squad. A Super Bowl champion with the Seattle Seaways, Willson has bounced around a number of teams the past couple of seasons. Willson is a serviceable vet, but no where near the level of Mark Andrews. Terrell Edmunds, and the linebackers will have an easier day in coverage.
C - Trystan Colon-Castillo
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Colon-Castillo will be the third starting center in as many weeks for the Ravens. This will be the first start of his career as an undrafted free agent this past year. Listed as the only other center on the roster at this point I wouldn't be surprised if one of the Ravens guards slides into center if they're able to snap.
For a unit that is already reeling, the Steelers will take advantage of Colon-Castillo. Cameron Heyward and the linebackers might have a day.
DT - Justin Ellis
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Justin Ellis is an experienced veteran, and will slide into Brandon Williams spot. Traditionally the Ravens use Ellis whenever Williams needed rest. Without any other defensive tackles on the roster I partially expect the Steelers to attack Eillis late in drives, and at the end of the game.
DE - Broderick Washington
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This will be the first career start for Broderick Washington. The 2020 fifth round pick has appeared in six games and has totalled 2 assisted tackles. Washington will now have to play an entire game in the spot left by Calais Campbell. The interior of the Ravens defensive line is extremely thin with no depth at all. This will be a big game for Benny Snell, and Anthony McFarland Jr. Not to mention Ben Roethlisberger should have a ton of time in the pocket.
LS - Nick Moore
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Last but not last the Ravens will have to play with a back up long snapper, Nick Moore. The Ravens were lucky to have a long snapper on their roster, but it will be a spot to watch. Starter, Morgan Cox is an NFL veteran of 11 years and is one of the reasons why the Ravens have been so good in Special teams situations. It will be interesting to see if Moore doesn't hurt Justin Tucker or Sam Koch’s ability to be consistent.
Thats the list! Who do you think the Steelers will be most successful against? Let us know who down in the comments below!