Both the Pittsburg Steelers and the Buffalo Bills kept their playoff hopes alive with wins on Saturday (December 23).

The Steelers/Bengals matchup was tense for several reasons. They both are on the outside of the Playoff picture, but could change their fortunes, especially if they can win these last few games. They also are in the same division, which is arguably the most difficult division in the league with all four teams having winning records.

Mason Rudolph has not started at quarterback since 2022 and led the Steelers to a blowout victory over the Bengals. It took the Steelers three plays to drive 92 yards and score the only points of the first quarter and it was clear the Steelers were going to be firing on all cylinders.

The Steelers would score two touchdowns in the second quarter, including one that came after an impressive interception by the defense. The Bengals would be shut out in the first half and went into the locker room down 24-0.

While the Bengals would have and 10-point quarter in the third, they did not have enough defensive chops to stop the Steelers and Pittsburg went on to win the game 34-10. As it now stands, both teams are on the outside of the playoff picture, if the off-season were to start today. However, with two more games left on their schedules, the Steelers are now closer to that goal, especially now with a tie-breaking win over a divisional team.

The Buffalo Bills had to overcome a fast-starting Los Angeles Chargers to win 24-22 on the road. The Chargers have already been eliminated from playoff contention but that does not mean they cannot play spoiler to their playoff-bound opponents for the rest of the season.

If the season were to end today, the Bills would be in the post-season, but that is far more secure with wins under their belts and so this win was crucial in making sure they stayed in the hunt. Josh Allen threw for 237 yards as the Bills overcame a 10-0 deficit in the first half, to take the lead 14-10 going into halftime.

The Chargers’ defense caused an interception but only managed a field goal in the ensuing offensive drive. These near misses ensured that the Chargers never took the lead again. The separation was just enough as the Bills were outscored 9-3 in final quarter but never lost their advantage.

The Bills are now 9-6 and second place in the AFC East. They are currently sixth place overall in the AFC and with only seven teams ensured a playoff spot, they will need to win the rest of the way to maintain their position.