The AFC North crown has officially been claimed by the Baltimore Ravens, following their dominant 35-10 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Saturday. However, the playoff picture remains murky for other divisional teams, particularly the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals, who are battling for their postseason lives.
Bengals: A Fight to Stay Alive
The Cincinnati Bengals are hanging on to their playoff hopes by a thread. Their primary objective is clear: they must win against the Steelers to keep their postseason dreams alive. Even if they manage to secure a victory, their playoff fate depends on other results. Losses by both the Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins on Sunday are necessary for Cincinnati to sneak into the playoffs.
Despite their shaky start to the season with a 4-8 record, the Bengals have managed an impressive turnaround. They are riding a four-game win streak, exceeding expectations after being written off by most analysts a month ago. Their recent surge has given fans hope, but the odds are still stacked against them.
Steelers: Choosing the Lesser Evil
For the Pittsburgh Steelers, the stakes are different. A win would likely set them up for a more favorable wild-card matchup against the Houston Texans, who have limped into the playoffs amid a weak AFC South. The Texans’ recent struggles make them a preferred opponent for Pittsburgh in the first round.
However, a loss, combined with a win by the Los Angeles Chargers, would force the Steelers to face the Ravens on the road. Given their 34-17 loss to Baltimore just two weeks ago, this is a scenario Pittsburgh would prefer to avoid.
Beyond playoff implications, the fierce rivalry between the Steelers and Bengals adds another layer of intensity to Sunday’s matchup. Pride is always on the line when these AFC North foes clash.
Ravens Lock in No. 3 Seed
Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens comfortably secured their divisional title with an undramatic victory over the Browns. Cleveland’s offense struggled throughout the game, with quarterback Bailey Zappe starting but being benched after throwing a pick-six. Dorian Thompson-Robinson was briefly brought in, only to be replaced by Zappe later on.
Baltimore’s defense, led by standout performances like a 355-pound interception from defensive tackle Michael Pierce, dominated the game. The Ravens maintained a multi-score lead throughout the second half, ensuring their spot as the No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs. They trail only the Kansas City Chiefs (No. 1 seed) and the Buffalo Bills (No. 2 seed).
Lamar Jackson’s Historic Season
A significant highlight for the Ravens this season has been the stellar play of quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson concluded the regular season with:
- 4,172 passing yards
- 41 passing touchdowns
- 915 rushing yards
- 4 rushing touchdowns
In addition to his impressive stats, Jackson posted some of the best pass efficiency numbers in NFL history, making this the most productive season of his career. His dual-threat capability continues to set him apart as one of the league’s most dynamic players.
The big question now: Will Lamar Jackson’s historic season earn him a third MVP award? He faces stiff competition from Josh Allen, who has led the Buffalo Bills to a strong finish with equally impressive performances.
What’s Next?
With the Ravens locked in as the No. 3 seed, attention shifts to Sunday’s remaining games. Fans will be eagerly watching as the playoff picture unfolds, particularly the outcomes of the Steelers-Bengals game and the results involving the Broncos and Dolphins. Both teams’ playoff fates hang in the balance, ensuring a high-stakes day of football.
Stay tuned for further updates as teams fight for their postseason lives and the playoff brackets take shape.
