Pittsburgh Steelers Poised to Take Over AFC North After Ravens’ Loss

The Pittsburgh Steelers are on the cusp of taking sole possession of the AFC North lead following a pivotal weekend in the division. The Baltimore Ravens, who were previously in contention, fell to the Cleveland Browns, dropping their record to 5-3. This loss has opened a significant opportunity for the Steelers, who now have a chance to seize the division lead in Week 8.

The Steelers, currently at 5-2, need to defeat the New York Giants in their upcoming game to climb to 6-2 and take a one-game lead in the division. The Ravens, Browns, and Cincinnati Bengals are all closely packed, with the Ravens and Browns at 1-1 in divisional games and the Bengals at 3-5 overall after losing to the Green Bay Packers.

The Steelers are not taking the Giants lightly, despite their 2-5 record. Historically, the Steelers have been strong on Monday Night Football, boasting a 13-1 record since 2000, including their last three wins after a single loss in 2020 against the Washington Commanders. They will rely on quarterback Russell Wilson and a defense that has been one of the best in the league this season.

A win against the Giants would not only give the Steelers momentum heading into their bye week but also set them up favorably for the second half of their schedule, where they will play all six of their AFC North games. Controlling their own destiny, a division win could help them secure a top seed in the AFC playoff bracket and potentially their first playoff victory in seven seasons).