AFC playoff scenarios, Week 15: Bengals, Broncos can clinch

Record: 10-3
Current seed: No. 2
Remaining schedule: at San Francisco, at Denver, vs. Baltimore

Where they stand

If we were writing this a week ago, we would be saying that Cincinnati stands in great position to not only win the AFC North but potentially take down a BYE. Suddenly, things have become much more murky for the Bengals after quarterback Andy Dalton broke his right thumb against the Pittsburgh Steelers while trying to tackle Stephon Tuitt, who interceptied him in the first half on Sunday.

With Dalton on the sideline, the Bengals turn to A.J. McCarron. McCarron simply needs to keep the talented train rolling, winning a game or two down the stretch to make sure all is well.

What needs to happen

To win the AFC North, the Bengals only need to either beat the Baltimore Ravens at home in Week 17, or win each of their next two games against the San Francisco 49ers and Denver Broncos. However, Cincinnati could also clinch the AFC North should Pittsburgh lose any game.

To get a BYE in the playoffs, the Bengals would likely need to beat the Denver Broncos in Week 16, and have either the Steelers lose once more or Cincinnati win one of its other two games.

To clinch a playoff berth this week, the Bengals need either a win, or a loss by the Chiefs or Jets.

Next: 3. Denver Broncos