In a thrilling conclusion to the AFC North, the Baltimore Ravens secured their playoff berth with a decisive 27-16 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking their third consecutive win. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, who completed 20 of 27 passes for 245 yards and threw two touchdown passes, expressed confidence, stating, “All I can do is keep doing what I’ve been doing and leading this team in the playoffs. We want to go far.” Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals kept their own playoff hopes alive by defeating the Steelers in a dramatic 22-19 game, where kicker Evan McPherson successfully nailed the game-winning field goal with just five seconds remaining. With this victory, the Bengals stayed one game behind the Ravens in the division. Both teams are now strategizing for the playoffs, with the Ravens clinching the AFC North title and the Bengals looking for a chance as wildcard contenders. NFL analysts are now focused on the implications for the playoff bracket, considering various potential matchups and scenarios, especially how the performances of Jackson and the Bengals’ Joe Burrow will affect their postseason journeys. The Bengals have now won three of their last four games, giving them momentum heading into the playoffs, while the Ravens are eager to maintain their winning streak.
Ravens and Bengals Position Themselves for 2025 NFL Playoffs
