In a funny twist, the Chiefs can knock the Bengals out of the postseason before the bracket is even set. All they have to do is lose the regular-season finale in Denver to ensure the Broncos reach the postseason and the Bengals stay out of it — a task made easier with Mahomes and a host of top-flight starters expected to sit out the game.

If the Broncos beat the Chiefs, they’re in the postseason. If the Chiefs win, that opens the door to the Dolphins (who would need to beat the Jets) and Bengals (who would need to defeat the Steelers and have Miami lose). If all three lose, Denver would make the playoffs.

The final AFC playoff spot will be awarded to either the Broncos, Bengals or Dolphins in Week 18. Here's what needs to happen for each team to clinch.

The Pittsburgh Steelers face a high-stakes battle against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 18, with playoff seeding hanging in the balance. This AFC North showdown is more than a rivalry game for the St

Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin expects to have a fully healthy active roster when his team plays host to the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 18. That includes the return of one defensive starter that was absent for Pittsburgh's 29-10 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day.