Mike Tomlin Makes History With Steelers’ Rivalry Win Over Ravens

Mike Tomlin made history at John Harbaugh’s expense when the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Baltimore Ravens.

The Steelers broke a first-place tie in the AFC North with a 27-22 road win. Sunday gave Tomlin his 22nd career victory over Harbaugh, which ESPN Insights noted is the most head-to-head wins one head coach has over another in the Super Bowl era.

The NFL’s two longest-tenured head coaches have gotten familiar over the years. ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted that only Chicago Bears icon George Halas and former Green Bay Packers coach Curly Lambeau have faced off more in NFL history.

Tomlin improved to 22-17 against Harbaugh after their 39th meeting, dating back to their first clash in 2008. Baltimore eliminated Pittsburgh last postseason, but the Steelers have won four of their last five regular-season encounters.

They continued to fare better against Lamar Jackson than other challengers, limiting the two-time MVP to 219 passing yards, a touchdown and an interception on 35 attempts. Baltimore gained 183 more rushing yards than Pittsburgh, but Aaron Rodgers registered a 103.1 passer rating in a clutch showing.

The Week 14 win has significant ramifications inside the AFC North. Instead of falling under .500 with their third straight loss, the Steelers now sit a game over the Ravens with four weeks remaining.

Pittsburgh will fight to stay atop the division when playing the Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns this month. Tomlin will then seek his 23rd win over Harbaugh when the Steelers face the Ravens — potentially in an AFC North title game — to close the regular season.

More NFL: Steelers Regain First Place With Massive Week 14 Win Over Ravens