Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes took a hit Thursday night against the lowly Patriots (3-10).
The Steelers (7-6) have suffered back-to-back losses against teams that have won two games, cementing their status as postseason contenders.
Here’s a look at where the other five teams rank on the playoff vs.Jacksonville Jaguars (8-4): ContendersRemaining games: Browns vs. Ravens at Bucs, Panthers at TitansThe Jaguars suffered a major scare in Week 13 when quarterback Trevor Lawrence went down with a season-ending injury.
Fortunately for Jacksonville, he “only” suffered a sprained ankle and will play again this season.
Even if Lawrence misses a game or two, the Jaguars have the pieces they need to weather the storm.
Jacksonville’s defense led the team for most of the season, ranking fifth in the NFL in interceptions per game (1) and opposing yards (93.1 yards).
Meanwhile, RB Travis Etienne is having a stellar season, ranking sixth in the league in rushing yards (771) and seventh in rushing touchdowns (8).
Minnesota Vikings (6-6): PetitionOther games: Raiders, Bengals, vs. Lions vs. Packers, lionsJoshua Dobbs’ magic was nice while it lasted, but “The Pastronaut” suffered a 12-10 loss to the Minnesota Bears before the team’s exit.
The 28-year-old had four interceptions in the loss, and HC Kevin O’Connell benched him in Week 14.
But the Vikings agree.While Justin Jefferson, who participated fully in practice this week, could return from a hamstring injury in Week 14, the Vikings may not be able to overcome the loss of Kirk Cousins to an injury season-ending Achilles tendon.
October 29. Minnesota has a tough road to the playoffs with two games against the Lions and one against the Packers to end the season.
Green Bay Packers (6-6): ContendersOther games: Giants at, vs. Bucs, Panthers, Vikings,Vs.Bear.
The emergence of quarterback Jordan Love puts the Packers firmly in the playoff conversation.
During Green Bay’s active three-game winning streak, the 25-year-old has completed 74 of 108 passes for 857 yards (69%), eight touchdowns and no interceptions.
But the Packers need to stay healthy if they want to make a run. Star running back Aaron Jones continues to tweak the MCL he suffered in Week 10, while cornerback Jair Alexander (shoulder) and wide receiver Christian Watson (groin) are also dealing with injuries.
However, recent wins over the Lions and Chiefs prove that the Packers are the best.
Indianapolis Colts (7-5): ContendersRemaining matches: vs. Bengals. Steelers, Falcons, Raiders…
TexasDespite losing rookie standout Anthony Richardson five weeks into the season, the Colts are still alive. However, the chances of making it to the play-offs are slim.
Indianapolis will be without its top player for the postseason, with Jonathan Taylor expected to miss three to five weeks after undergoing thumb surgery.
Taylor’s replacement, Zach Moss, is confident, telling NFL.com, “I think I’m pretty good,” but the Canines have no room for error.
That’s because rookie QB CJ Stroud and the Texans (7-5) are struggling in the division.
Both teams will meet in Week 18 and are looking to set the stage for a win and a showdown.
Cleveland Browns (7-5): ContendersRemaining matches: vs. jaguar Bears to Texans, Jets to Bengals.
The Browns have overcome numerous injuries at key positions thanks to their elite defense.
Cleveland’s unit ranked first in the NFL in opposing yards per game (260.5) and opposing yards per game (153.4).
Despite the Browns’ revolving door that continues to revolve, Cleveland appears to have found a viable starter in veteran Joe Flacco.
The 38-year-old played well in Week 13, completing 23 of 44 passes for 254 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.
Defense still wins championships and the Browns have one of the best in the NFL.
With decent play from their quarterback, Cleveland could do well.
