While this Sunday’s game, sure to be the most brutal of the day, is certainly a big one for the Ravens, it’s even bigger for the Steelers. Pittsburgh’s huge come-from-behind win against Green Bay last week was good for their collective psyche, but it doesn’t cure all of the problems that lead to their five-game losing streak. Their defense (especially in the fourth quarter) has been so toothless that coach Mike Tomlin elected to go for an onside kick when his team had the lead.

That’s a huge sign that the Ravens need to continue what they’ve done the past two weeks, which is to attack their opponent. After a bit of a slump, Joe Flacco had a career day against the Bears, which is, hopefully, something he can build upon.

But it won’t be so easy. With Mark Clayton and Kelley Washington still banged up, it could be tough for the Ravens to stretch the field. Also, if Jared Gaither doesn’t play, Oneil Cousins might be in for a long day trying to pass block against James Harrison — who might not play — and LaMarr Woodley, who combine for 19.5 sacks.

That the Ravens give up the fewest yards per carry in the league is just one reason to look for the suddenly pass-happy Steelers to continue to come out throwing. The other, of course, is that the Ravens’ secondary is gutted. So they’ll have to do their best to prevent Ben Roethlisberger from throwing deep down the field to Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes and rookie speedster Mike Wallace. The best way to do that is to get pressure on the QB, who has been sacked the second-most times in the league.

If he has to rush his throws, there’s less chance of the secondary being exploited. So Terrell Suggs, who seems to have been playing his way back into shape, could prove to be very important.

It would be huge if Suggs, Jarret Johnson and Antwan Barnes can generate some heat. No, the Ravens didn’t get many sacks against Aaron Rodgers, who has been sacked the most. But most of those sacks were in the first half of the season. And the Steelers gave up eight sacks to the Browns just two games ago. But for the most part, the Ravens beat the Steelers in Baltimore and lose in Pittsburgh. Unfortunately, I think that will continue. Prediction: Steelers, 31-27.

Merry Christmas. --- RONALD T. ZIZMOR.