The Steelers playoff possibilities simply took a serious hit because of the Los Angeles Chargers Monday night time win over the Indianapolis Colts.
Pittsburgh wanted somewhat assist from the Colts on Monday night time — a workforce they defeated only a few weeks in the past — and they didn’t get it. As a substitute, the Chargers defeated Indianapolis, 20-3, and assured themselves a playoff spot.
So what does that imply for the Steelers?
The Dolphins stay in limbo as the present No. 7 seed within the AFC, and the one one in Wild Card positioning that hasn’t clinched a playoff spot. The Jets, Patriots and Pittsburgh all give chase.
Listed below are the present standings within the AFC Playoff Image:
The Patriots and Jets stay within the hunt, together with the Steelers, at 7-8. Nonetheless, each New England and New York defeated Pittsburgh earlier this yr, as did the Dolphins.
How can the Steelers make the playoffs?
Per 538, the Steelers have solely a two-percent probability of creating the postseason. That quantity is so low because of the Chargers clinching a postseason spot themselves, which means that now Pittsburgh should struggle with three different groups for one lone Wild Card slot.
For the Steelers to make the playoffs, three issues should occur, in no specific order:
Mike Tomlin’s workforce is in a tough scenario, and the chances are towards them at making a run to the AFC postseason. For Tomlin, nevertheless, there may be his personal report at stake. Tomlin has but to register a dropping report as head coach. Ought to the Steelers win out, he’ll keep away from that destiny as soon as once more, regardless of a meager outlook to start out the yr.