Calvin Austin III: ‘I Pray’ Ravens Play As Much Man Coverage As They Did In First Game Against Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers kicked off a nice win streak earlier this season by beating the Baltimore Ravens. While a lot has happened since then, it wasn’t really that long ago. That game was in Week 14, which was less than a month ago. The Steelers won that game 27-22, with their offense making many notable plays. The Ravens’ defense played a lot of man coverage, allowing big plays from Pittsburgh’s offense. WR Calvin Austin III won’t be upset if they play more man coverage on Sunday night.

“I pray they do,” Austin said Wednesday via the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review’s Chris Adamski on Twitter. “If they stick with that, then, ‘Hey, let’s go.’”

Asked if he foresees the Ravens again playing so much man coverage in Sunday’s rematch with the Steelers, Calvin Austin III says, “I pray they do.”

“If they stick with that, then, ‘Hey, let’s go.’”

— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) December 31, 2025

Unfortunately, the Ravens have limited the amount of man coverage that they’ve played since their first meeting with the Steelers. As much as Austin would like the Ravens to have the same game plan, he probably won’t get his wish.

However, even if the Ravens do deploy a high rate of man coverage, the Steelers might have a tougher time taking advantage of it. The biggest reason is that they won’t have DK Metcalf. He’s still suspended for a controversial interaction with a fan.

Metcalf was instrumental to the Steelers’ earlier win against the Ravens. He had seven catches for 148 yards. Their first offensive play of that game was a 52-yard pass to Metcalf. No one stepped up to replace him last week, either.

Perhaps Austin will help do that. He was out in Week 17 due to a hamstring injury. However, he could return this week. If he does, that addition could boost the Steelers’ passing attack. Austin is a speedster, and he should help the Steelers stretch the field. Although he had only one catch against the Ravens in Week 14, that play went for 31 yards.

Whether Austin plays or not, the Steelers’ offense needs to improve. It didn’t do much well last week, but the Cleveland Browns have a solid defense. The Ravens’ defense has flaws, though, especially against the pass. The Steelers should have opportunities to move the ball. Hopefully, that includes deep shots against man coverage, like in their first matchup against the Ravens.