Steelers vs. Ravens- Players to watch

Every time the Steelers and Ravens meet, certain impact players step up to their abilities, while others are gone unnoticed.  For example, James Harrison always seems to have an excellent game versus the Ravens, while Rashard Mendenhall is typically limited to less than 3 yards a carry.  Just as Terrell Suggs normally kills the Steelers; Ed Reed is practically invisible.

With that being said, I have picked three Steelers and three Ravens whom I predict to have a big game tomorrow.

Steelers-

1. James Harrison

His performance in the November 2007 Monday Night game against the Ravens is one that will never be forgotten.  10 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 interception.  Pretty solid performance.  Look for him to harass Flacco throughout the entire afternoon tomorrow.

2. Mike Wallace

I just have a gut feeling about him.  Last year he totaled 10 catches, for 120 yards in three games versus the Ravens.  Not bad, but not spectacular, which is why I'm predicting him to come up big tomorrow.  He's due.

3. Ben Roethlisberger

Ben has been called a "Raven Killer" by some.  Considering he hasn't lost to them since 2006, I guess he qualifies as one.  Even against the always stellar Raven defense, look for Big Ben to have a big day tomorrow.

Ravens-

1. Terrell Suggs

I hate this guy, but damn is he good.  In my opinion, Suggs is the most overlooked player on the Ravens squad.  Put it this way - every time the Steelers play the Ravens, Lewis and Reed aren't the guys I'm worried about...

2. Haloti Ngata

I think it's safe to say that this guy completely shuts the run game down regardless of the opponent.  He may be the best defensive tackle in the NFL.

3. Anquan Boldin

He didn't do a damn thing in the divisional round against the Steelers last year.  As a matter of fact, he hurt his team, (1 catch, and -1 yard).  However, he came up huge in the two team's previous matchup in week 13, (5 catches, 118 yards, 1 TD).

Players who COULD make an impact

Troy Polamalu- SS, PGH

Lawrence Timmons- ILB, PGH

Hines Ward- WR, PGH

Ray Rice- RB, BAL

Ed Reed- FS, BAL (Typically never shows up, and is abused by Hines Ward, but he's still a player)

written by Alex Muchnok