The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for a crucial showdown against the Baltimore Ravens, but the absence of key player Alex Highsmith due to a recent ankle injury poses a significant challenge. The outside linebacker, who played an instrumental role in the team’s Week 10 victory over the Washington Commanders, will be sidelined for this pivotal divisional matchup.
Highsmith’s injury, described as a low ankle sprain by his father, was suffered while attempting to navigate a challenging play involving quarterback Jayden Daniels. The fact that there are no broken bones is a relief, yet his expected recovery time of 2 to 3 weeks still leaves a noticeable gap in the Steelers’ defensive lineup. Coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the setback, emphasizing the need for quick recovery but also expressing confidence in the depth of the roster. His words highlight both the urgency of the situation and the team’s adaptability amid adversity.
While Highsmith’s absence is a blow to the defensive front, the Steelers have talent ready to step up. Tomlin hinted at preparedness, suggesting that players like Nick Herbig and Preston Smith could fill the void left by Highsmith. Smith, who joined the team shortly before the trade deadline after leaving the Green Bay Packers, had a productive outing in his debut, logging significant snaps and contributing a tackle for loss and a quarterback pressure. Herbig, returning from a hamstring injury sustained earlier in the season, adds to this depth with his effective play during the first part of the season, having already notched 2.5 sacks in limited appearances.
The Steelers’ defense will need to rally in response to the powerful Ravens offense, currently leading the league with an astonishing 440 yards per game. Baltimore’s attack is spearheaded by quarterback Lamar Jackson, a dual-threat who has repeatedly shown he can turn a game on its head with his mobility and playmaking abilities. Defending against Jackson is a monumental task, especially with a lineup featuring talented skill players like Mark Andrews, Isaiah Likely, Zay Flowers, and newly acquired running back Derrick Henry.
The absence of Highsmith may force the Steelers to rethink their defensive strategies, particularly their pressure schemes. The effectiveness of Herbig and Smith will be crucial, as the team explores ways to disrupt Jackson’s rhythm. The pressure will not only fall on the edges but will also require solid play from the interior linemen, creating a collaborative unit that can contain Baltimore’s explosive plays.
Tomlin’s comments during Tuesday’s press conference demonstrated his focus on the forthcoming match-up while revealing an interesting dynamic involving former Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson, now with the Ravens. Although Johnson has only seen limited action since his trade to Baltimore, his familiarity with Pittsburgh’s system may offer the Ravens a competitive edge. Tomlin momentarily downplayed Johnson’s potential impact, stating that the immediacy of the figurative threats posed by other players warranted his attention first.
However, overlooking Johnson may be a strategic misstep. Even with limited opportunities in his new environment, he possesses the potential to exploit the Steelers’ weaknesses, as his experience will rival even those playing against him. A targeted approach could see Johnson becoming an unexpected difference-maker should the Ravens find a way to incorporate him more into their game plan.
As the Steelers prepare for this crucial match against the division rival Ravens, the ramifications of Highsmith’s injury loom large. Coach Mike Tomlin has already expressed confidence in his team’s depth, but the effectiveness of substitutes will undoubtedly determine how well Pittsburgh can manage the challenges presented. Navigating the rest of the season without Highsmith will require concerted effort and strategic adaptation—a test that could define the Steelers’ title hopes as they contend in an increasingly competitive landscape.