What do the Baltimore Ravens need to clinch the NFL playoffs on week 16?

The Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers face off at MT&T Bank Stadium on Saturday (December 21) in a week 16 game that will go a long way to deciding the winners of AFC North.

The Steelers (10-4) lead the way and have already qualified for the playoffs, but could still be pipped to the division title by the Ravens (9-5), their next opponents.

The Ravens' two objectives against the Steelers in week 16

Baltimore heads into week 16 with two main objectives: match Pittsburgh’s overall record and secure their place in the postseason.

With three games left to play, John Harbaugh’s team in fifth spot in AFC, three games ahead of three teams (the Indianapolis Colts, the Miami Dolphins and the Cincinnati Bengals) who are just outside the playoff places.

If the Ravens win - or tie - against the Steelers, they will be assured of finishing inside the top seven. In fact, they only need one win or tie in any of their three remains games to be in.

Even Baltimore loses to Pittsburgh, they will still qualify in week 16 if the Colts and the Dolphins either lose or tie (to the Tennessee Titans and the San Francisco 49ers respectively). The Ravens hold the tiebreaker over the Bengals thanks to two victories in head-to-head matchups.

AFC title picture

As for the AFC title, a victory for the Steelers in Baltimore will see them move two games ahead of the Ravens with two games to play, which will secure them the tiebreaker and the title.

If Harbaugh’s team wins, the two franchises would go into the final two weeks with identical season and divisional records, sending the tiebreaker to record against common opponents. The Steelers have the upper hand there as it stands, although that could change before the regular season ends.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.