Acrisure Stadium | wikipedia
Acrisure Stadium | wikipedia
Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels and Ravens' Lamar Jackson may share a similar playing style, but according to Steelers' defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, they are playing distinctly different games. Despite the Steelers having faced Daniels last Sunday before hosting Jackson this Sunday, Austin sees no advantage in preparation.
"There's no advantage," Austin stated. "Obviously, the guy we're playing, Lamar, is a two-time MVP. He's had three perfect passer ratings this year in addition to all the other things he does. It's not a slight at Jayden Daniels, who I think is going to be a fine player, but this guy (Jackson) has proven it in the NFL."
Austin noted that Jackson continues to improve as he gains experience in the league. This season, Jackson has thrown for 2,669 yards and 24 touchdowns and run for 538 yards and two TDs. He also executed a two-point conversion during Baltimore's victory over Cincinnati on Nov. 7.
In preparing for such a dual threat like Jackson, Austin believes practicing against Steelers backup Justin Fields offers more benefits than having just played Daniels.
"It does when you're dealing with a mobile quarterback and a guy that can run and throw if you have somebody in your program," Austin said. He emphasized that having someone like Fields allows them to practice their full offense without giving away plays.
The Steelers have found some success against Jackson in previous matchups. Jackson holds a 1-3 record against them compared to his 64-19 record against other teams. The Ravens have averaged fewer points per game with Jackson against the Steelers than against other opponents.
Jackson's performance statistics further illustrate his challenges against Pittsburgh: four touchdowns and seven interceptions compared to 144 touchdowns and 40 interceptions elsewhere; his passer rating is significantly lower at 66.3 versus 103.0 against other teams.
Reflecting on these matchups, Austin remarked on the competitive nature of games between these teams: "You know, the series is tough," he said. "I think the teams are kind of mirror images... A lot of times the styles make for the fights."
Austin concluded by saying there is no secret formula for success in these closely contested games.