Welcome to the penultimate week of the 2024 NFL regular season, where all eyes are on the AFC North division. This Saturday, January 4, 2025, will see both Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns, as well as Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers, concluding their regular seasons with crucial matches. The outcomes of these games could significantly impact playoff standings, particularly for the Denver Broncos. Let’s delve into what to expect from these intense matchups.

Baltimore Ravens Ready to Secure Division Title

The first match-up features the Baltimore Ravens hosting the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Mile High time, airing live on ESPN. With much at stake, the Ravens are determined to secure a division title, making this game a must-win for them. Despite the Browns' challenging season, sports analysts predict a strong performance from the home team.

The Ravens have been in impressive form, and a victory here would solidify their position atop the AFC North. According to betting odds, the Ravens are favored by nearly 20 points, indicating a significant advantage. However, football can be unpredictable, and while the Browns may struggle, they are not without their moments of brilliance. A win for the Ravens seems likely, but the margin might be closer than expected. Expect a competitive display from both teams, with the Ravens ultimately prevailing with a score of 31-16.

Cincinnati Bengals Face Off Against Pittsburgh Steelers

The second clash sees the Cincinnati Bengals traveling to Pittsburgh's Acrisure Stadium to face the Steelers. This evening game kicks off at 6:00 p.m. Mile High time and will also be broadcast on ESPN. For the Bengals, this game holds immense importance as it could determine their playoff fate. Conversely, the Steelers might already have secured their position if the Ravens win earlier in the day.

The Bengals enter this contest as slight favorites, despite being on the road. Their need for a win adds an extra layer of intensity to the match. Analysts predict a closely contested game, with the Bengals possibly emerging victorious. Russell Wilson and the Steelers will certainly put up a fight, but the pressure on the young Bengals squad could lead to some unexpected plays. In the end, the Bengals are expected to edge out a narrow victory with a final score of 23-19, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the regular season.