There were positive vibes in the Ravens’ locker room following Wednesday’s practice, and the upbeat mood was understandable.

Having a new lease on their season felt good. So did having Lamar Jackson back on the practice field.

The Ravens are grateful for the opportunity to face the Pittsburgh Steelers in Sunday night’s showdown for the AFC North title. After starting 1-5 and all the adversity they’ve endured this season, the Ravens were stoked to be back in control of their own destiny.

“It got bleak there a little bit, a few times throughout the year,” All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton said. “We’ve got to make it all for a reason. We’ve worked too hard to put ourselves in this position. God’s been on our side to give us another shot. Not a lot of 8-8 teams can say they still have a chance in Week 18. We’ve got to make the most of it.”

Coming off a gut-punch loss to the New England Patriots, the Ravens rallied in Green Bay in an elimination game. The Browns’ win over the Steelers the next day was a gift that gave them another chance to realize their goals.

“The vibes, the energy after that Green Bay game – not even knowing if we were going to even have a chance – to me, that was encouraging,” cornerback Marlon Humphrey said. “I think the guys came out with the energy we played with in that must-win game, not knowing [what the future holds]. It said a lot to me about the leadership of the team, the leadership of the coaches. And hopefully that energy, that same demeanor, that will to win throughout the week will lead into a victory on Sunday.”

Starting center Tyler Linderbaum said the buzz surrounding the team is undeniable, with players and coaches knowing they still have a chance to accomplish something special.

“If we knew this was our last game, it’d probably be a different story,” Linderbaum said. “It starts this week, preparing our butts off.”

Linderbaum said Jackson’s presence at practice only added to the positive feeling. The Ravens have full confidence in backup quarterback Tyler Huntley, but Jackson is a one-of-a-kind talent.”

“He’s the leader of this team,” Linderbaum said. “Everything goes through No. 8. It’ll be exciting to have him back if he does play.”