Why go for two?

I've been pondering this since Sunday's game and must be missing something. Why go for two after Pickens' touchdown?

Here's my analysis: The Steelers are up by 4 after the TD meaning Baltimore must score a TD. Let's assume they do score a TD.

If the Steelers kick after the TD (a 99% chance of success) and the Ravens score and kick one, its 17-15 and a Steeler FG wins. If the Ravens successfully go for two, its 18-15 and again, a Steeler FG at least ties the game for OT.

However, by going for two and failing (as they did), if the Ravens score, then successfully go for two, its now 18-14 and the Steelers need a TD, not a FG.

To me, kick the extra point and guarantee that the worst you will need is a Field Goal to win or tie.

So, what was the advantage of going for two?

 

Also, if the Ravens had scored a touchdown, they could go for a block on the extra point. Given how they got to overtime against the Bengals last year, gotta at least try it. (I know a bad snap helped make that happen, but you still have to give yourself every opportunity to win, no matter how slim.)

 

Short answer is that it is the right call late in the game due to the possibility of a very late TD and missed XP. Earlier in the game it is a coin flip (probably not advisable with this offense). Also the right call for the Ravens would not be to go for 2 when up 2 as being up 3 is important if there was time left.

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id...point-conversion-recommendations?platform=amp