Mon Jan 05 00:30:00 UTC 2026: News Article:

Ravens Stave Off Elimination, Set Up Winner-Take-All AFC North Showdown with Steelers

BALTIMORE, MD – The Baltimore Ravens kept their playoff hopes alive in dramatic fashion, earning a Week 18 showdown with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the AFC North title. After staring down elimination in Week 17, a hard-fought victory over the Green Bay Packers, combined with a Steelers loss to the Cleveland Browns, has given Baltimore a critical opportunity.

In a Week 17 contest, the Ravens, led by backup quarterback Tyler Huntley in place of an injured Lamar Jackson, leaned heavily on running back Derrick Henry, who delivered a herculean performance with 216 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 36 carries. Meanwhile, in Cleveland, Shedeur Sanders’ early touchdown pass propelled the Browns to a 13-6 victory over Pittsburgh in a low-scoring affair.

The Week 17 results have drastically altered the playoff picture for Baltimore. NFL Next Gen Stats now give the Ravens a 60% chance of making the playoffs. However, their path is simple: win the AFC North.

Playoff Implications:

  • Ravens Win: Baltimore clinches the AFC North title as the No. 4 seed and will host the Houston Texans, the AFC’s No. 5 seed, in the Wild Card round. The Ravens would hold the tiebreaker over the Steelers due to a superior divisional record.
  • Ravens Lose or Tie: Baltimore misses the playoffs for the first time since 2021.

The Ravens (8-8) currently trail the Steelers in the AFC North standings and need a victory to force a tie and claim the division title. This high-stakes matchup promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 regular season, with Baltimore aiming for its third consecutive division crown and a fourth consecutive playoff appearance.

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