The Ravens are up 6-3 at the half. Anyone expect anything different? I mentioned the first cliche earlier, and here’s another: “Bend but don’t break.”

The Ravens defense withstood a 14-play drive by Pittsburgh, giving up only a field goal. The Steelers defense withstood a 15-play drive by Baltimore, giving up just a field goal as well.

A long, multi-play drive against a great defense — when they rarely happen — has a different feel to it than in other circumstances. Usually, you say, “This team is marching.” In this game, you feel like the more plays, the more chance for a turnover.

• A lot was made of the “hatred” between these two teams, but both are keeping their emotions in check so far. And that’s crucial because a stupid 15-yard penalty in the second half could have major consequences.

• From the “they’ve thought of everything” department: The soap in the restrooms here at M&T Bank Stadium … is purple.

– Scott Hanson reporting from Baltimore

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