Ravens Gain Overlooked Edge in AFC North Standings

The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers are now tied for the AFC North lead. Both teams hold a 6-5 record after a dramatic shift in the division. This sets the stage for a tense final six weeks of the regular season.

The Ravens’ stunning five-game winning streak has erased a massive early-season deficit. Their resurgence has completely reshaped the playoff picture in the American Football Conference.

From Division Cellar to First Place Tie

The Baltimore Ravens were 1-5 just six weeks ago. Their playoff hopes appeared to be all but over. According to ESPN, their current 6-5 record marks one of the most impressive turnarounds of the NFL season.

Coach John Harbaugh’s team has relied on a stout defense during this run. The offense, led by Lamar Jackson, has also cut down on critical mistakes. This combination has proven devastating for their opponents.

The Pittsburgh Steelers, meanwhile, have struggled recently. They have lost four of their last six games. This slide has allowed the surging Ravens to catch them in the standings.

Tiebreaker Gives Ravens the Edge

Despite the identical records, the Ravens currently hold the top spot. They own the crucial tiebreaker due to a superior record within the division. Baltimore is 2-0 against AFC North rivals, while Pittsburgh is 2-1.

This adds immense importance to every remaining divisional game. The two teams are scheduled to meet again on December 7th in Pittsburgh. That matchup could ultimately decide the division champion.

The Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns are both 3-8. They are now three games back with little room for error. Their paths to the postseason are now extremely difficult.

Thanksgiving Showdown Carries Major Weight

The Ravens face the Cincinnati Bengals tonight in a prime-time Thanksgiving game. A victory would extend their winning streak to six games. It would also solidify their position atop the division.

Analysts from The Athletic give the Ravens a high probability of making the playoffs. A win tonight would push that probability even higher. The team is focused on maintaining its momentum.

The Steelers will be watching the outcome closely. They need the Ravens to stumble to regain control of the division. The final weeks of the season promise high drama.

The AFC North standings are now a week-to-week battle, with the Ravens’ incredible resurgence making them the team to beat down the final stretch.

Thought you’d like to know

Who leads the AFC North right now?

The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers are tied with 6-5 records. The Ravens hold the top position due to a better record within the division. This gives them the critical tiebreaker advantage for now.

How did the Ravens get back into first place?

The Ravens won five consecutive games after a 1-5 start. Their defense has been exceptional during this winning streak. This remarkable turnaround has allowed them to catch the slumping Steelers.

Do the Steelers and Ravens play again this season?

Yes, the two teams are scheduled to meet in Pittsburgh on December 7th. That game will have major implications for the final AFC North standings. It could effectively decide the division winner.

Are the Bengals and Browns out of the playoff race?

Both teams have a 3-8 record and are three games behind the leaders. Their chances of winning the division are now very slim. They would need a nearly perfect record and help from other teams.

What is the key to the Ravens’ winning streak?

The defense has been the primary driver of their success. The offense has also significantly reduced turnovers. This balanced approach has made them very difficult to beat.