Week 18 of the NFL kicks off with Ravens vs. Browns and Steelers vs. Bengals. The Bengals must win to keep their playoff hopes alive, relying on two other results to go their way.
The Stage Is Set for the Final Week
The last week of the NFL regular season starts today, with five teams still in the hunt for the final playoff spots in their respective conferences. The day’s matchups feature the Baltimore Ravens taking on the Cleveland Browns and the Pittsburgh Steelers facing the Cincinnati Bengals, with the latter being the highlight of Saturday’s slate.
Ravens vs. Browns: A Formality
The first game of the day is set for 3:30 p.m. CT at M&T Bank Stadium, where the playoff-bound Baltimore Ravens will host the eliminated Cleveland Browns. This game carries little consequence as the Ravens, with an 11-5 record, have secured their playoff berth and are on the verge of clinching their divisional title. On the other side, the Browns, with a dismal 3-13 record, are playing solely for pride and to end their season on a positive note.
Steelers vs. Bengals: Do or Die
The main event takes place at 7:00 p.m. CT, with the Bengals traveling to Acrisure Stadium to face the Steelers in a must-win situation. Cincinnati needs a victory to keep their playoff dreams alive while also relying on the outcome of other key games.
The Steelers, boasting a 10-6 record, are one of the top teams in the AFC and present a formidable challenge. Meanwhile, the Bengals, sitting at 8-8, must win and hope for a miracle to secure their playoff spot.
For Cincinnati to make the postseason, they need the Denver Broncos to lose their matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins to fall to the New York Jets. If the Broncos win their game, they will claim the final playoff spot, eliminating the Bengals and the Dolphins from contention.
The stakes couldn’t be higher as the NFL’s final week unfolds, promising drama and excitement until the last whistle.
