How Steelers Can Still Make Playoffs After Loss to Jets

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a very favorable matchup against the New York Jets on Sunday, with a chance to gain ground on the Tennessee Titans for the final AFC Wild Card spot.

That proved to be too tall a task for the Steelers, as they fell 16-10 to the Jets, thanks in part to a poor performance by rookie quarterback Devlin Hodges.

Week 17 will be do-or-die for the Steelers, but they're still not completely out of the playoff hunt. In order to clinch the final AFC Wild Card spot, Pittsburgh will need somewhat a few things to go their way.

Regardless if Steelers make the playoffs or not, Tomlin should get a lot of coach of the year votes just for having them in that position considering what he is dealing with
— Robert Littal (@BSO) December 22, 2019

Steelers Playoff Scenario

Steelers win against Baltimoree Ravens in Week 17
Tennessee Titans lose to Houston Texans in Week 17

In order for Pittsburgh to be playing in January, both of those scenarios need to occur.

Facing off against the Ravens has proven to be a tall task for any team, as Baltimore hasn't lost since October. Well, Lamar Jackson and Co. locked up the No. 1 seed in the playoffs on Sunday, so they will likely be fielding a weakened roster in order to preserve their health.

Next week, the Steelers have to beat the Ravens and hope that the Texans beat the Titans to clinch the final wild-card spot as the sixth seed in the AFC playoffs. #Steelers
— Blitzburgh ? (@SteelBlitzburgh) December 22, 2019

What helps the Steelers even further is that the Texans will be playing for the AFC's No. 3 seed. They'll also be motivated to send the rival Titans packing by putting an end to their season.

Even after losing to a bad team like the New York Jets, there's hope, Steeler Nation. The Steelers will have to put their best foot forward next week and take care of business against the Ravens, while also hoping the Texans can take care of business.