Steelers LB Lawrence Timmons vs Ravens TE Todd Heap: After missing several games due to a hamstring injury, Heap responded with a strong performance against Kansas City a week ago. He was the Ravens top weapon in the middle of the field. The Ravens like the matchup with Heap against Timmons, and the Steelers won't back off initially because Timmons is athletic enough to cover most running backs and tight ends one on one. But if he can't, the Steelers won't hesitate putting safety Troy Polamalu on Heap. Edge: Even.
Steelers CB Bryant McFadden vs. Ravens WR Anquan Boldin and Derrick Mason: The Ravens move their receivers around, so there should be enough of McFadden to share. As quarterback Joe Flacco has developed, the Ravens have added more to the passing game like crossing routs. McFadden is the cornerback every team picks on and he will get lit up several times on game day. Edge: Ravens.
Steelers WR Mike Wallace vs. Ravens cornerbacks Josh Wilson and Chris Carr: Carr and Wilson are small, but have outstanding speed. They have played well in the second half of the season, but haven't faced any receiver with the speed of Wallace. Regardless of what is working on offense, expect Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to take a couple of shots downfield to Wallace. With that kind of speed, you have to take chances. Edge: Steelers.