Pittsburgh, PA, January 5, 2026
In an intense season finale, the Pittsburgh Steelers secured the AFC North title with a narrow 26-24 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers led the way with a pivotal 294-yard performance, including a game-winning touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III. The Ravens fought hard, with Lamar Jackson contributing significantly, but a missed field goal by Tyler Loop at the game’s end sealed their fate. The Steelers’ win bumps their record to 10-7, setting them up for a home playoff game, while the Ravens finish at 8-9, narrowly missing the postseason.
Pittsburgh Steelers Clinch AFC North Title in Thrilling Finale
Pittsburgh, PA – In a thrilling season finale, the Pittsburgh Steelers clinched the AFC North title with a 26-24 win over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night. The game concluded dramatically as Ravens kicker Tyler Loop missed a 44-yard field goal attempt as time expired, allowing the Steelers to secure the victory.
Game Highlights
The matchup was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams exchanging leads in the final minutes. Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, in his 21st season, threw for 294 yards and connected with Calvin Austin III for a 26-yard touchdown pass with 55 seconds remaining, giving Pittsburgh a 26-24 lead. Despite a valiant effort by Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, who threw two touchdown passes to Zay Flowers, the Ravens’ final drive ended with Loop’s missed field goal attempt.
Key Performances
Ravens running back Derrick Henry led the ground attack with 126 rushing yards, becoming the ninth player in NFL history to surpass 13,000 career rushing yards. Jackson completed 19 of 35 passes for 219 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, while also adding 43 rushing yards and a touchdown on seven carries. For the Steelers, Rodgers’ performance was pivotal, and running back Kenneth Gainwell contributed a 2-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.
Season Implications
The victory propelled the Steelers to a 10-7 record, earning them the AFC North title and a home playoff game against the Houston Texans. The Ravens, finishing the season at 8-9, narrowly missed the playoffs, marking a disappointing end to a season that saw them overcome a 1-5 start to contend for the division title.
Background
The Ravens-Steelers rivalry, established in 1996, is renowned for its intense and competitive matchups. This game marked the 40th meeting between the two teams, with the Steelers leading the series 38-27. The rivalry has been characterized by hard-hitting defenses and high stakes, often determining playoff positions and division titles.
Looking Ahead
As the Steelers advance to the playoffs, they will host the Houston Texans in the wild-card round on Monday, January 12. The Ravens, despite their strong finish, will begin preparations for the 2026 season, aiming to build on their late-season momentum and address areas for improvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens?
The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Baltimore Ravens 26-24 on Sunday night, securing the AFC North title.
Who scored the game-winning touchdown for the Steelers?
Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw a 26-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III with 55 seconds remaining, giving Pittsburgh a 26-24 lead.
How did Derrick Henry perform in the game?
Ravens running back Derrick Henry led the ground attack with 126 rushing yards, becoming the ninth player in NFL history to surpass 13,000 career rushing yards.
What is the history of the Ravens-Steelers rivalry?
The Ravens-Steelers rivalry, established in 1996, is renowned for its intense and competitive matchups. This game marked the 40th meeting between the two teams, with the Steelers leading the series 38-27.
What are the playoff implications of this game?
The victory propelled the Steelers to a 10-7 record, earning them the AFC North title and a home playoff game against the Houston Texans. The Ravens, finishing the season at 8-9, narrowly missed the playoffs.
Key Features of the Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Pittsburgh Steelers 26, Baltimore Ravens 24 |
| Game Deciding Moment | Ravens kicker Tyler Loop missed a 44-yard field goal attempt as time expired. |
| Steelers’ Key Player | Quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw for 294 yards and a game-winning touchdown. |
| Ravens’ Key Player | Running back Derrick Henry rushed for 126 yards, surpassing 13,000 career rushing yards. |
| Playoff Outcome | Steelers clinched the AFC North title and will host the Houston Texans in the wild-card round. |
Now Happening on X
- @3onyourside (January 1, 2026, 10:00 AM) Breaking update: A child was grazed by a bullet and one person died following two separate New Year’s Eve shootings in Memphis. View on X
- @WMCActionNews5 (January 4, 2026, 5:04 PM) Memphis Police Department is investigating a shooting that left one man in critical condition, highlighting ongoing public safety efforts. View on X
- @1032shotsfired (January 4, 2026, 6:24 PM) One person is dead after an early morning shooting in the Frayser area of Memphis, with police launching an investigation into the incident. View on X
- @WMCActionNews5 (January 1, 2026, 3:16 AM) Memphians are preparing to celebrate the new year as the Memphis Police Department implements a comprehensive safety plan to ensure public security during festivities. View on X
- @MeandBogie (January 5, 2026, 2:10 AM) A woman was reportedly stabbed near Memphis Street, underscoring concerns about local crime and public safety in the area. View on X
- @3onyourside (December 29, 2025, 9:39 AM) Breaking update: A man was shot at a Memphis grocery store following a fight, with police investigating the circumstances of the public safety incident. View on X
- @MemphisFlyer (December 31, 2025, 11:30 AM) Coverage of the Memphis Safe Task Force, debates over public safety measures, and other key community developments including a new bridge project. View on X
- @BlackChron (December 31, 2025, 2:39 PM) The National Guard’s presence in Memphis emerges as a top public safety story of 2025, alongside debates over immigration and crime reductions. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lamar Jackson Addresses Trade Rumors and Criticism
NFL Week 18 Showdown and Playoff Implications
Saints’ Olave Out, Ravens’ Jackson Back in Week 18 Preview
Flu Cases Surge in Maryland, Overwhelming Hospital Emergency Rooms
Ravens and Steelers Set for Crucial Week 18 Showdown
Myles Garrett Sets Franchise Record with 22 Sacks
Playoff Picture Tightens in Week 17 NFL Matchups
Lamar Jackson Misses Practice Due to Back Injury
Ravens’ Playoff Hopes Diminish After Loss to Patriots
Baltimore Ravens’ Playoff Hopes Hinged on Home Performance
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
