How Steelers can clinch AFC North in Week 17 after Ravens' loss to Patriots

Mike Moraitis

How Steelers can clinch AFC North in Week 17 after Ravens' loss to Patriots image

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers are on the brink of clinching the AFC North as they enter Week 17.

The Baltimore Ravens dropped their Week 16 contest to the New England Patriots on Sunday night and they now trail the Steelers by two games in the win-loss column after Pittsburgh's wild win over the Detroit Lions at Ford Field.

With only two games left to play, that means the Steelers (9-6) can clinch the division in Week 17 with a win or a Ravens (7-8) loss.

That's right, it's that simple for Pittsburgh.

The Ravens draw a tough matchup against the Green Bay Packers in Week 17.

And, to make matters worse, quarterback Lamar Jackson is dealing with a back injury that forced his early exit from the contest and leaves his status for next week in doubt.

If Jackson can't go, Tyler Huntley will take the reins of the offense. He is 1-0 as a starter this season.

Green Bay also has an injury concern at quarterback after Jordan Love left the Packers' Week 16 game early due to a concussion, so it could be backup versus backup when the Ravens and Packers meet next week.

The Steelers, meanwhile, draw a matchup against the Cleveland Browns, which on the surface is favorable considering the Browns' 3-12 record, but nothing is ever simple when it comes to AFC North games.

After they play their Week 17 contests, the Ravens and Steelers will meet for the regular-season finale in Week 18 in Pittsburgh.

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