NFL playoff picture: What does Ravens-Steelers mean for AFC standings in Week 18

The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers face off on Sunday Night Football in Week 18 to close out the 2025-26 NFL regular season. The matchup is a do-or-die contest for both teams with a playoff berth on the line. The game kicks off at 8:20 p.m. ET and the Ravens are a 3.5-point favorite.

Lamar Jackson will be back in action after missing last week’s game with a back injury. He was a full participant in all three practices this week and was removed from the final injury report with no injury designation.

The Steelers won the first matchup between these two, escaping with a 27-22 win after an Isaiah Likely touchdown catch was reversed because the tight end did not make enough of a football move to complete the reception.

AFC North playoff picture

The Steelers are 9-7 and lead the AFC North. The Ravens are 8-8 and sit in second place. If the Steelers win the game or it finishes in a tie, they will secure the AFC North title and the No. 4 seed in the AFC bracket. If the Ravens win the game, they will win the AFC North and claim the No. 4 seed in the AFC bracket. Only one of the two can make the playoffs, and they will be the No. 4 seed.

Tiebreaker implications

tiebreaker info: https://www.nfl.com/standings/tie-breaking-procedures