The AFC North is set to take center stage this Saturday with two crucial division games that will have playoff implications. The Baltimore Ravens (11-5) can clinch the AFC North title with a win over the Cleveland Browns (3-13), while the Cincinnati Bengals (8-8) look to sneak into the playoffs with victories paired with losses by the Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins.
The Ravens, led by quarterback Lamar Jackson, are riding high after a 31-2 victory over the Houston Texans on Christmas Day. A win at home would be Jackson’s fourth division title. The Browns, on the other hand, will face their third different starting quarterback of the season in Bailey Zappe, and Dorian Thompson-Robinson is also expected to play. Cleveland is currently positioned for the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
In Cincinnati, Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase have led the way for a hot offense that’s riding a four-game winning streak. If they can secure wins against both the Ravens and Steelers, the Bengals could be a formidable team in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6) are on a three-game skid and need some help to clinch the AFC North title.
Here are four things to watch for when these teams take the field:
1. Can the Browns’ offense finish strong? Cleveland’s offense has struggled of late, but Jerry Jeudy is looking like a solid WR1 in 2025.
2. Lamar Jackson’s MVP bid is heating up. The Ravens QB has career highs in pass touchdowns and passer rating this season.
3. Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase must continue to succeed. The Bengals offense is on pace for a historic season, but can they overcome the Steelers’ defense?
4. Russell Wilson needs to get back on track before the playoffs. The Steelers quarterback must expose Cincy’s defense on deep passes with receivers George Pickens and Pat Freiermuth leading the way.
These four matchups will have significant implications for the AFC North and the NFL playoffs, making them must-watch games for football fans.
Source: https://www.nfl.com/news/2024-nfl-season-week-18-four-things-to-watch-for-browns-ravens-bengals-steelers