As the NFL season approaches Week 13, the playoff prospects for the Pittsburgh Steelers have come into sharper focus. Currently, the team holds a 38 percent chance of making it to the postseason, according to NFL.com’s Ali Bhanpuri. A critical matchup against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday could significantly alter these odds. A victory would elevate the Steelers’ chances to 52 percent, while a loss would see their hopes plummet to 29 percent.
Bhanpuri noted that despite a recent loss to the Chicago Bears, which many feared would severely impact their postseason hopes, the Steelers have managed to maintain a relatively stable probability. Their current standing is just one point lower than it was the previous week and seven points higher than the model’s projected outcome if they were to lose against the Bills. Heading into the Thanksgiving period, the Steelers rank as the least likely among the top ten contenders in the AFC to secure a playoff berth.
Critical Matchups Ahead
The Steelers are not only battling for a playoff spot but are also contending with their AFC North rivals, the Baltimore Ravens. After a shaky start to the season with a record of 1-5, the Ravens have surged back with five consecutive wins, tying them with the Steelers for the division lead. However, Baltimore holds the tiebreaker due to a superior division record.
The good news for Pittsburgh is that they have two upcoming matchups against the Ravens in their final six games. The first of these critical contests will take place on December 7, while the second is scheduled for January 4, coinciding with the last week of the regular season. These games could be pivotal in determining which team secures the division title.
While the Steelers focus on their immediate challenges, questions loom about their potential in the playoffs. The last time Pittsburgh advanced beyond the regular season was during the 2016 season, when they reached the AFC Championship Game. Their last Super Bowl appearance was in 2010, with their most recent championship win occurring in the 2008 season.
Looking Ahead
As the Steelers prepare for their crucial game against the Bills, the stakes could not be higher. A win not only boosts their playoff chances but also reinvigorates a fan base eager for postseason success. The upcoming weeks will be defining for the Steelers, as their performance against division rivals and playoff contenders will ultimately shape their narrative for the remainder of the season. Will Pittsburgh rise to the occasion, or will they fall short once again? The answers will unfold in the coming weeks as the NFL season reaches its climax.
