BUFFONE: A Number of Scenarios for the Steelers

by John Buffone

As the NFL Playoffs draw nearer, many Pittsburgh Steelers fans find themselves frantically looking through schedules and playing on playoff generators to see what scenarios are possible for the black and gold to make the playoffs. Both Pittsburgh and the Indianapolis Colts (8-4) have current control of the two wildcard spots with Cincinnati on the outside looking in. Through this process, a number of analysts and talk show hosts are putting a huge emphasis on the Steelers week 16 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. Both the Steelers and Bengals are currently 7-5 and most are saying that this game will make or break the Steelers season. While the Steelers matchup with the Bengals is important, it isn’t a “do or die” situation. It’s true that a win over the Bengals would certainly help though. The Steelers could lose their next two games against San Diego and Dallas, defeat Cincinnati, defeat Cleveland in week 17 and still have a legitimate shot at getting in the playoffs because the Bengals play division leader Baltimore in week 17. However, if the Steelers were to defeat San Diego and Dallas, lose to Cincinnati and defeat Cleveland, the Steelers would still get in as long as the Bengals lose to Baltimore. Of course, all of this scenario building can be avoided if the Steelers simply defeat the Chargers, Cowboys and Bengals. Cleary that’s easier said than done but one thing is for sure, things like this are why the NFL is America’s most exciting sport.

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