Thumps up

Ravens backup quarterback Jeff Blake. Despite little preparation, he threw for 298 yards -- the most by a Ravens quarterback this season -- in his first start since November 2000. His two interceptions late in the fourth quarter tarnished the effort, though.

Thumbs down

Ravens' focus. This young team faced an insurmountable 25-point deficit because it lacked discipline in the first half. The Steelers may have the most talent in the AFC, but the Ravens didn't seem mentally prepared.

Stat of the game

.986. Winning percentage of Steelers coach Bill Cowher when his team goes ahead by more than 10 points. His record when leading by that margin is 71-1.

Quotable

"Our guys got schooled in the first half. They found out how far they have to go." -- Ravens coach Brian Billick, on his team trailing 28-3 at halftime.

Trainer's room

Quarterback Chris Redman (numbness in right leg), inside linebacker Ray Lewis (partially dislocated left shoulder), defensive end Michael McCrary (knee) and kickoff specialist J.R. Jenkins (leg) all did not play.