PITTSBURGH — The race in the AFC North remains tightly contested as the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for a crucial Week 15 matchup against the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football. As the last team to play this week, the Steelers are under pressure to secure a win and maintain their lead in the division.
In an earlier game, the Baltimore Ravens defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 24-0, which significantly impacts the playoff landscape. The Ravens’ victory brings their record to 7-7, keeping them firmly in contention for the AFC North title. The Bengals, however, saw their season come to an early end with this loss, dropping to 4-10.
For the Steelers, a victory over the Dolphins is critical. A win would push their record to 8-6 and help them stay ahead of the Ravens for the divisional lead. They have upcoming games against the Detroit Lions, Cleveland Browns, and the Ravens in Week 18. Should they lose against Miami, it would create a tense scenario where they would have to at least match the Ravens’ performance in the remaining weeks, given their previous head-to-head advantage.
Baltimore’s remaining schedule includes matchups against the New England Patriots and Green Bay Packers, both of which are winnable games for them. Conversely, the Steelers would need to triumph over the Lions and the Browns to set up an important showdown in Week 18 that could ultimately decide the division title.
Additionally, the Steelers will have to navigate this critical period without star linebacker T.J. Watt, who is sidelined for Week 15 after undergoing lung surgery. Historically, the Steelers have struggled without Watt, holding a poor record of 1-11 in games he does not play.
A win against the Dolphins not only solidifies the Steelers’ division leadership but also sets the stage for momentum heading into the final weeks of the season. If they can secure victories against the Lions and Browns while benefiting from a Ravens loss, they could clinch the division crown even before their anticipated rematch in Week 18.
As the stakes rise, Pittsburgh remains focused on competing for the playoff spot, determined to overcome obstacles and seize control in a closely-fought AFC North.