Following the Pittsburgh Steelers' Week 16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, there isn't much to be optimistic about moving forward. The offense is struggling, the defense is as well, and the team faces two incredibly difficult matchups to conclude the 2024 regular season -- all while Baltimore is just one Steelers' loss away from claiming the AFC North division. With all that in mind, here are five reasons for concern following the Steelers' Week 16 loss to the Ravens.

From SS DeShon Elliott, WR George Pickens, DT Larry Ogunjobi, and CB Donte Jackson to now CB Joey Porter Jr., the Pittsburgh Steelers are banged up on both sides of the ball. This is a recipe for disaster as the postseason draws near.

Not long ago, the Steelers held a comfortable two-game lead over the Ravens in the division. However, a two-game losing streak has left both AFC North rivals tied at ten wins and five losses apiece.

The Black and Gold face the best team in the AFC, the Kansas City Chiefs, with just three days of rest. The Cincinnati Bengals should also be considered a serious threat to the Steelers, as their prolific passing attack led by QB Joe Burrow and WR Ja'Marr Chase keeps them competitive in any matchup.

While the Steelers' Week 15 and 16 opponents, the Eagles and Ravens, boast fearsome offensive units, surrendering 400 yards of offense in back-to-back contests is a far cry from the form the defense showcased earlier in the season.

At one point, the Steelers' ability to avoid turnovers was a strength on offense. However, the past two losses included two costly fumbles on potential scoring drives and a pick-six that sealed the Black and Gold's Week 16 loss. With two incredibly difficult matchups ahead, the Steelers can afford no mistakes on the offensive side of the ball.

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