The Ravens are leading the Steelers 9-3 at the end of the third quarter.
Yet, it was Pittsburgh that showed how a great defense can withstand even a “critical” turnover. Santonio Holmes‘ fumble in the red zone only resulted in a Baltimore field goal. You still get the feeling that the first touchdown is going to win this game.

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

The Ravens and Steelers were tied, 0-0, at the end of the first quarter. This is why “defense wins championships” is one of the best and most accurate cliches in football.

There is such pressure on the opposing team when a lock-down defense is playing its game. One mistake, one big play by the opposing defense could be the difference between winning or losing.

It’s a good time to find out if Joe Flacco is Ben Roethlisberger. Both are 6-foot-5, both have huge arms. Neither went to a football factory, BCS power school. Both were first round picks by an AFC North team with a great defense. Both were given the keys to the franchise early in their careers.