The Pittsburgh Steelers realistically had to win against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18 to keep their postseason hopes alive. Fortunately, the Ravens did not have much to play for in this game. That is because they clinched the top seed in the AFC last week. Now, the Steelers managed to improve their own postseason odds in Week 18.
Pittsburgh Steelers Defeat Baltimore Ravens 17-10
The weather was miserable in this game and points came at a premium. By the end of the third quarter, the score was just 7-7. Plus, Pittsburgh Steelers LB T.J. Watt left the game due to a knee injury. Yet, Pittsburgh found a way to win without him.
That task started early in the fourth quarter with a 71-yard touchdown pass from QB Mason Rudolph to WR Diontae Johnson. That proved to be enough for the Steelers to seal the deal. Now, Rudolph is 3-0 as the starter for the Pittsburgh Steelers this season.
What the Pittsburgh Steelers Need to Make the Playoffs
Earlier today, we had dived into playoff scenarios every team in contention had going into this weekend. For the Steelers, a win today means they need one of three results to happen:
1. Houston Texans-Indianapolis Colts Tie
The Steelers can clinch the playoffs as early as tonight. However, this only happens if the Colts and the Texans tie. Considering there has not been a single tie in the 2023 NFL season, Steelers fans should not get their hopes up for this one.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars Loss or Tie vs. Tennessee Titans
If the Steelers fail to get a tie above, a Jaguars loss can get them in the playoffs. However, WR Christian Kirk was just activated for Jacksonville today after missing a month due to muscle core surgery. Plus, Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence is still questionable for this game.
3. Buffalo Bills Loss vs. Miami Dolphins
Assuming the two results above do not go the Steelers’ way, it may come down to the last game of the 2023 NFL regular season. The Bills and Dolphins face off for the AFC East on Sunday Night Football. Buffalo enters this game having won four straight. Plus, if none of the above results happen, the Bills will be playing for their playoff lives as well in this game.
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