Image Source: USA Today
The Ravens vs Steelers rivalry has always been electrifying, and as the 2025 NFL season approaches its climax, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Baltimore Ravens are on the verge of playoff elimination, currently sitting outside the AFC playoff picture and desperately needing a win against the Steelers in their upcoming Week 18 matchup.
After enduring a rollercoaster season, the Ravens find themselves in precarious positioning, having lost three of their last four games. This slump has come after a promising five-game winning streak, which elevated them into the mix for the division title. With just two games remaining, they face an uphill battle, needing to win convincingly to keep their postseason aspirations alive.
Ravens’ Playoff Hopes Depend on Steelers’ Performance
As of now, the Baltimore Ravens have an estimated 21% chance to make the playoffs after their recent victory over the Green Bay Packers. However, this chance is contingent not only on their own performance but also heavily reliant on the Pittsburgh Steelers losing to the Cleveland Browns in Week 17.
The Ravens’ path to the playoffs is straightforward but unforgiving:
- Steelers must lose to Cleveland Browns in Week 17.
- Ravens need to beat the Steelers in their final encounter.
Currently, the Ravens sit behind the Steelers in the AFC North standings, trailing them by a full game. The latest results from Week 17 will greatly impact their strategies and mindset going into their critical showdown.
Week 17 Showdown: Ravens vs Steelers Preview
The upcoming match between the Ravens and the Steelers is more than just a rivalry; it’s a pivotal moment for both teams. The Steelers are in a stronger position, sitting atop the AFC North, but with their recent form, anything can happen. A win by the Ravens could shift the momentum dramatically.
Fans will be looking forward to witnessing how the Ravens respond to the pressure of needing a win, and the significance this game holds for their season.
AFC North Standings
Here’s a brief overview of the current standings as they head into Week 17:
- 1. Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6)
- 2. Baltimore Ravens (8-8)
- 3. Cincinnati Bengals (5-10)
- 4. Cleveland Browns (3-12)
This makes the upcoming matchup essential not just for playoff positioning, but also for maintaining pride in what has been a challenging season for the Ravens.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for the Ravens?
The Ravens vs Steelers clash is set to be a highly anticipated event as both teams will aim to secure their place in the postseason. The Ravens must rely on both their talent to defeat the Steelers and a favor from the Browns, bringing dramatic tension and excitement to the end of the regular season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring these developments in the lead-up to the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What do the Ravens need to do to make the playoffs?
The Ravens must defeat the Steelers in Week 18 and rely on the Steelers losing to the Browns in their Week 17 matchup.
2. How are the Ravens’ chances of making the playoffs?
As of now, the Ravens have an estimated 21% chance to make the playoffs after their Week 17 victory over the Packers.
3. What is the current ranking of the Ravens in the AFC North?
The Ravens are currently in second place in the AFC North, trailing the Steelers by one game.
4. When is the Ravens vs Steelers game scheduled?
The Ravens are set to face the Steelers in Week 18, following the conclusion of Week 17’s games.
5. Can the Ravens still win the AFC North?
If the Ravens win their final game against the Steelers, and the Steelers lose to the Browns, the Ravens can clinch the AFC North title.