Primetime Primer: Ravens-Steelers rivalry enters a new chapter

The greatest rivalry since the turn of the century is entering a new junction this season.

Circa 2000, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens developed a mutual enmity towards one another after producing some of the most brutally competitive games of the modern era. As part of the cyclical nature of sports, Thursday's game is the beginning of a new chapter.

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger suffered a sprained MCL Sunday during the team's 12-6 win over the St. Louis Rams - Michael Vick takes over at quarterback - while the Steel Curtain of yesteryear is no more.

Baltimore is off to a startling 0-3 start and its season is on the line on the road against its sworn nemesis, in front of a boisterous Heinz Field crowd that will be looking to feast upon its wounded foe.

Le'Veon Bell needs to prove himself as the NFL's best running back

Many believe Le'Veon Bell to be the NFL's most dynamic all-around threat. The Steelers' third-year star will need to prove worthy of that designation with Roethlisberger sidelined.

Although the Ravens appear to be in dire straits at 0-3, the team's resolute run defense remains intact. Baltimore allowed 252 rushing yards through its first three games, and Bell will face a stiff test against C.J. Mosley, who is arguably the league's best run-stopping linebacker. Ravens outside linebacker Elvis Dumervil is known for his pass-rushing ability, but excels in coverage and will be relied upon to track Bell when he wheels out of the backfield as a receiver.

Pittsburgh will need to be aware of Baltimore's increased propensity to send safety blitzes. Ravens strong safety Will Hill is a run-stopping dynamo who cut out his tendency to play with reckless abandon and is one of the team's lone bright spots at this juncture of the season. Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey is out due to a broken fibula and right guard David DeCastro will be responsible for notifying Vick when there are eight men or more in the box.

The Ravens lost the unofficial leader of their defense when Terrell Suggs suffered a season-ending torn Achilles in their opening game. With their entire season on the line Thursday, the Ravens need to prove that they're still a formidable force in the AFC North.

Player to Watch

Steve Smith Sr., WR, Ravens

Steve Smith Sr. is in the final year of his illustrious career, and is proving to be the Ravens' most dynamic offensive threat at 36 years old. Smith recorded 13 receptions for 186 yards and two touchdowns against Cincinnati on Sunday and remains a prolific deep threat for Joe Flacco. The five-time Pro Bowler will likely be covered by William Gay, one of the least imposing starting cornerbacks in the league. Smith will be missed when he hangs up the cleats for good this winter, and the loquacious receiver always performs well when the spotlight is the brightest.

Did you know?

• Pittsburgh holds a 21-17 historical head-to-head advantage.
• The last time these two teams met in the regular season, Ben Roethlisberger threw for 340 yards and six touchdowns, as the Steelers defeated the Ravens 43-23.
• Roethlisberger has missed 22 games in his career, with six coming against the Ravens. In those six contests, the Ravens are 5-1.