AFC stock reports: Baltimore Ravens show no sign of slowing down
Teams fighting for a spot
Oakland Raiders – The Raiders remain in the hunt just behind Kansas City in the AFC West and the playoff picture as well. While it’s hard to take much away from their Week 11 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, it’s the third straight win for the black and silver. The Chiefs are still up and hold a tie-breaker from their Week 2 outing against Oakland, but the looming Week 13 game could change all of this.
Pittsburgh Steelers – One of the ugliest games of the week was between the Cleveland Browns and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Between quarterback Mason Rudolph throwing four interceptions, countless injuries for both teams, and a brutal fight at the end of the game, it was a rough week in Pittsburgh. Just a week removed from climbing into the playoff bracket, they quickly get knocked out with a loss to the Browns.
The Steelers have yet to trust Rudolph given their quick release playcalling. While it’s hard to give the young quarterback too much fault throwing to receivers off the street, it’s the defense that has carried this team. Now, Rudolph will be without his center Maurkice Pouncey following the altercation with Myles Garrett. It’s hard to see this offense make it into the playoffs despite riding the back of an elite defense.
Tennessee Titans – Since taking over as the starting quarterback, Ryan Tannehill has led the Titans to a 3-1 stretch. Getting a big win over the Chiefs going into their bye week was significant when looking at the final stretch. In the last six games, Tennessee will play four divisional opponents, along with the Raiders and the New Orleans Saints. It’s going to be a tough task for Tannehill and company, but the AFC South remains wide open.