The Pittsburgh Steelers have reclaimed the top spot in the AFC North following the Baltimore Ravens’ Thanksgiving loss. The Ravens held the division lead for just four days, but Pittsburgh’s position is far from secure as they prepare for a crucial Week 13 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
AFC North Standings Update
The Steelers currently sit at 6-5, narrowly ahead of the Ravens at 6-6. A loss on Sunday could see Baltimore reclaim the lead due to their advantage in tiebreakers against common opponents. The Ravens have already secured wins against the Jets, Vikings, Bears, and two victories over the Browns, giving them a stronger divisional resume.
For Pittsburgh, the stakes could not be higher. Victory against Buffalo would solidify their lead and keep them in control of the division heading into December.
Wild Card Opportunities
The playoff picture shifted further after the Kansas City Chiefs’ loss on Thursday, opening the door for Pittsburgh to remain competitive even if they cannot secure the division crown. With multiple teams clustered around similar records, the wild card race is wide open.
Currently, the Steelers are positioned fourth in the AFC, but their margin is razor-thin. The Chargers, Jaguars, and Bills all sit at 7-4, while the Texans and Chiefs remain close behind.
Current AFC Standings (Week 13)
- New England Patriots — 10-2
- Denver Broncos — 9-2
- Indianapolis Colts — 8-3
- Pittsburgh Steelers — 6-5
- Los Angeles Chargers — 7-4
- Jacksonville Jaguars — 7-4
- Buffalo Bills — 7-4
- Houston Texans — 6-5
- Kansas City Chiefs — 6-6
- Baltimore Ravens — 6-6
- Miami Dolphins — 4-7
- Cincinnati Bengals — 4-8
- Cleveland Browns — 3-8
- Las Vegas Raiders — 2-9
- New York Jets — 2-9
- Tennessee Titans — 1-10
AFC North Scenario
The division remains one of the tightest in the NFL. The Steelers’ narrow lead means every game carries playoff-level intensity. The Ravens, despite their recent setback, remain firmly in contention. Meanwhile, the Bengals and Browns have fallen out of the race, leaving Pittsburgh and Baltimore to battle for supremacy.
Sunday’s clash against Buffalo is pivotal. The Bills, also fighting for playoff positioning, present a formidable challenge. A win would not only keep Pittsburgh atop the AFC North but also strengthen their wild card cushion.
The Steelers’ return to the AFC North lead highlights the volatility of the division and the intensity of the playoff race. With the Ravens close behind and the Bills looming, Pittsburgh must deliver a strong performance to maintain control.
Every matchup from here on out will shape the postseason picture, and the Steelers know that their margin for error is slim. The Week 13 showdown against Buffalo could define their season.
