In an NFL Week 18 AFC North rivalry game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens, one player prop stands out as a significant factor to consider. The Steelers, still fighting for a chance to make the playoffs, face off against a Ravens team that has already secured the first seed in the AFC. With several key players resting, including Lamar Jackson and Odell Beckham Jr., the Ravens will start Tyler Huntley at quarterback.

The Steelers, led by Mason Rudolph, who has impressively guided them to two consecutive wins, will look to secure a victory against their division rivals to keep their playoff hopes alive. Weather conditions for the game may play a role, as rain and snow with winds reaching 15-plus mph are expected. This could lead to a more conservative, run-heavy gameplan for the Steelers, relying heavily on running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren.

The Ravens, with their first seed secured, are expected to rest multiple players. Marlon Humphrey has already been ruled out, and there is speculation that Kyle Hamilton and Roquan Smith, among others, may also be limited or ruled out. This situation presents a favorable matchup for the Steelers, as they will mainly face second-string players on a typically strong Ravens defense.

When it comes to the Steelers' offensive approach, Rudolph has shown the ability to unlock the massive upside of wide receiver George Pickens. In the two games that Rudolph has started, Pickens has had impressive performances, recording 4 receptions for 195 yards and 2 touchdowns, as well as 7 receptions for 131 yards.

The focus, however, will likely be on the rushing attack, given the expected weather conditions and the Steelers' recent run-heavy tendencies. Harris has taken on the role of workhorse back, receiving 19 and 27 rush attempts in the past two games. He has been primarily involved in running plays, with only a 15% route participation rate in Rudolph's dropbacks. It is worth noting that Harris has not seen a target since Week 14.

In this crucial matchup, Harris's role as the primary rusher for the Steelers becomes crucial. With a must-win situation and the Ravens resting key players, the game script appears to be in Harris's favor. It is projected that he will see at least 16 rush attempts, making his potential to surpass the over/under line of 15.5 rush attempts quite promising.

Considering the significance of each rushing attempt in this market, Harris's chances of exceeding 15.5 rush attempts are estimated around 60%. While the uncertainty surrounding both teams and the game's overall outcome may make betting on the spread unappealing, focusing on Harris's rushing attempts provides a more predictable avenue.

Therefore, for those looking to place a prop bet, targeting Najee Harris over 15.5 rush attempts appears to be a favorable option. With the game's circumstances and the crucial role he plays in the Steelers' offensive strategy, Harris has a higher floor than usual and a solid chance of surpassing the set line.

Bet on Najee Harris to exceed 15.5 rush attempts and keep a close eye on his performance in this important Week 18 clash between the Steelers and Ravens.