Steelers Reclaim AFC North Throne
The Pittsburgh Steelers have once again taken the reins of the AFC North. After a challenging start to the season, where they slipped from the top with a disappointing 2-4 record over six games, the Steelers watched as the Baltimore Ravens surged from a dismal 1-5 to a commendable 6-5, temporarily surpassing them in the standings. However, that lead was short-lived. Following the Ravens’ defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 13, Pittsburgh reclaimed its position at the summit, now sitting at 6-5.
Current Standing and Remaining Challenges
As the Steelers prepare to face the Buffalo Bills, they find themselves in a favorable position. Even if they were to lose this upcoming game, they would still hold the edge over the Ravens. A potential 6-6 finish would give Pittsburgh a 5-3 record within the AFC, outpacing Baltimore’s 4-4 record. Both teams have identical 2-1 records within the division, which adds an interesting layer to the race for supremacy.
Path to the AFC North Crown
The Steelers’ route to clinching the AFC North is straightforward: win out. If they can secure victories in their final six games, they would finish the season with a robust 12-5 record, ensuring they would triumph over the Ravens regardless of their performance. But if they stumble along the way, they must navigate a series of crucial matchups that will determine their fate.
Following the Bills, Pittsburgh’s schedule includes:
An away game against the Ravens
A home contest against the Miami Dolphins
A trip to Detroit to face the Lions
A visit to Cleveland to conclude their series against the Browns
A final showdown at Acrisure Stadium against the Ravens, which could prove pivotal in the division race.
The Importance of Head-to-Head Matchups
Maintaining a superior record over the Ravens is essential for the Steelers. If both teams end the season with the same record, Pittsburgh would have the upper hand either by sweeping the Ravens in their head-to-head clashes or finishing with a better record within the AFC North.
Both teams also face an additional AFC North opponent to wrap up their seasons. The Steelers will encounter the Browns in Week 17, while the Ravens will face the Bengals in Week 15. As the season winds down, the drama of the AFC North race promises to intensify, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.
