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On November 6, 2011, the Baltimore Ravens (6-2) defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3) 23-20 with a touchdown strike with just 8 seconds remaining. It was another classic chapter in the NFL’s best rivalry. The Ravens earned my respect. Last night, I couldn’t write that. The loss was too shocking and bitter. But today, after a little reflection, I can write without lashing out, I hope.

No excuses—the Ravens won the game and deserve all the respect and credit. QB Joe Flacco(notes), even after giving up a sack-fumble that could have been the game-changer, calmly moved his team 92 yards for the winning score in the last two minutes. He overcame a fourth down and several drops by his receivers to complete the drive. For the winner, he even went back to rookie WR Torrey Smith(notes), who had missed an earlier touchdown catch on a well-thrown deep ball. For this game, at least, Joe Flacco was the QB the Ravens needed, bailing out a defense that was not dominant.

What it means for the Steelers

The Steelers are now in chase position for the AFC North division crown. They are a half game out of first behind the Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals. However, to pass the Ravens, the Steelers need the Ravens to lose at least two games. And the Steelers have to win. The Steelers are now 1-1 in their three game gauntlet before their off week. They must beat the surprising Bengals next week in Cincinnati or they will really be in a tough position to even make the playoffs. Cincinnati, though, has a chance to stir up the normal two team race in the AFC North with four games against the Steelers and Ravens in the coming weeks.

The silver lining

Ever an optimist, I can’t view the loss as the end of the world. The Steelers had a chance to win because of several positive developments. The offensive line was stellar. Ben Roethlisberger(notes) had time to throw all night. He was only sacked once on a third and goal where he tried to let the play develop. The running game was also effective as Rashard Mendenhall(notes) averaged 4.0 per rush. He also punched in a short touchdown on first down from the half yard line. Recently, the Steelers have been unable to rush in these short scores.

The Steelers also continued to show great depth and flexibility. With linebackers James Farrior(notes) and Lamarr Woodley(notes) out, the Steelers welcomed back James Harrison(notes) and Jason Worilds(notes). Harrison was a man possessed, showing no ill effects from his orbital bone injury. He finished with 3 sacks among his 8 tackles. The Steelers also had to explore their depth at wide receiver as Emmanuel Sanders(notes) was out for a funeral and Hines Ward(notes) was knocked out of the game early. Jerricho Cotchery(notes), a gritty receiver I always respected with the New York Jets, played well. He caught three passes for 44 tough yards. TE Heath Miller(notes) also chipped in to keep the chains moving. The Steelers are flush with offensive weapons.

The Steelers continue to improve their depth and get healthier. In previous seasons, for example, an injury to DE Aaron Smith(notes) devastated the defense. Now, there are plenty of guys (like Ziggy Hood(notes) and Steve McLendon(notes)) stepping up to fill holes. The Steelers have drafted well to improve their depth. I think the Steelers will still compete for a playoff berth and be a dangerous opponent. It would be quite exciting to see a playoff rematch with these Ravens. Respect, yes, but I still hate them. Here we go, Steelers, here we go!

Sean Durity is a Terrible Towel twirling Steelers fan living in Atlanta. He grew up cheering the 1970s dynasty and appreciates the organization’s excellence even more as an adult.