2021 NFL Playoff Picture: Ranking AFC teams vying for wild card spots as Ravens on outside looking in

Article Summary:
AFC wild card contenders, ranked
This is a ranking of the teams competing for a wild card spot in the AFC. Only three non-division winning teams make the playoffs, so the top three obviously have the best chance to make the postseason as we dive into Week 16.
4. Ravens
Remaining schedule: at Bengals, vs. Rams, vs. Steelers
Losing three in a row has dropped the Ravens from the AFC North lead to out of the playoffs, losing the conference record tiebreaker to all four 8-6 teams and the common record tiebreaker to the Bills. The Ravens still have an excellent shot to make the playoffs thanks to being tied for first in the AFC North with the Bengals – the team Baltimore squares off against in Week 16. If the Dolphins beat the Saints, they’re right in the mix for a playoff spot with the opportunity to potentially knock out the Patriots in the final week of the year,
7. Raiders
Remaining schedule: vs. Broncos, at Colts, vs. Chargers
A thrilling win over the Browns keeps the Raiders’ playoff hopes alive with a showdown against the Broncos looming that will essentially eliminate one team from the postseason race.
