Updated AFC playoff picture: Steelers hold strong, Bills falter

Well well well, things have gotten interesting.

The AFC postseason could be a battle between three teams. It also could be one that’s filled with plenty of spoilers and surprises once the first whistle blows. No matter how you look at it, after Week 10, fans are starting to see a clearer picture where everyone stands.

Once again, the Pittsburgh Steelers remain the team to beat thanks to their undefeated record. With a sound 36-10 victory over AFC North rival Cincinnati, Pittsburgh Improves to 9-0 for the first time in franchise history. Ben Roethlisberger returned from the reserve/COVID19 list and excelled, throwing for 333 yards and four touchdowns.

Outside of Pittsburgh, who else would make the postseason?

As of now, Kansas City would hold the No.2 seed. Patrick Mahomes and the red hot Chiefs offense did not suit up this week thanks to a bye, but the way the offense is playing, they’ll battle Pittsburgh for the top spot when they return. Keep in mind it’s looking like Mahomes will be the front-runner for the MVP after mixed reviews from other contenders on Sunday.

Both Indianapolis and Buffalo have struggles that will keep them at bay. Philip Rivers threw for over 300 yards against Tennessee, but only connected in the end zone one. How long can the top-tier defense continue to bail him out? Meanwhile, a crazy Hail Mary from Kyler Murray gave the Cardinals a 32-30 victory over Josh Allen in the desert. One week after throwing for 415 yards and three scores, Allen took a step back by throwing a pair of interceptions and only 284 yards.

The real story will be in the wild card teams. Both Baltimore and Miami are looking to be fighting for the division title while also staying in the race. Tua Tagovailoa is now 3-0 as the Dolphins starter thanks to a 29-21 victory over Los Angeles. The Ravens post the league’s best run game and top-caliber defense, but could only improve if Lamar Jackson gets out of his recent funk.

With the victory over Denver, Las Vegas would hold the No.7 seed entering a new week. Josh Jacobs tore up the ground with 112 yards and a pair of touchdowns while the defense finished with three turnovers through the air. Cleveland and Tennessee would currently be on the outside looking in but still vying for the race.

Buffalo’s loss now makes things interesting in the AFC East. The same could be in the AFC South as both Indianapolis and Tennessee sit at 6-3. With seven teams fighting for five spots, the race to the finish of Week 17 is only going to become more must-see television week in and out.