Things haven’t gone fully according to plan for Joe Burrow and the Bengals this season. With a record of just 4-8 entering a crucial Week 14 matchup against the Cowboys, Cincinnati was facing a daunting uphill battle. Despite some impressive offensive performances, including one of the best statistical seasons of Burrow’s career, the Bengals struggled to string together wins. This inconsistency cast serious doubt on their hopes for a late-season playoff push.
However, the Bengals managed to turn the tide with a thrilling 27-20 victory over the Cowboys on Monday night. This win not only improved their record to 5-8 but also kept their playoff hopes alive. Head coach Zac Taylor’s squad still has a significant challenge ahead to secure a spot in the 2024 AFC playoff picture, but as we know in the NFL, anything is possible.
Bengals playoff picture
After a tough 44-38 loss to Pittsburgh in Week 13, Cincinnati’s playoff chances appeared grim. They had lost three consecutive games, and the team seemed to be struggling to find its rhythm. Yet, the victory over Dallas provided a much-needed boost, reigniting the Bengals’ aspirations for the postseason.
In the updated AFC playoff picture following Week 14, Cincinnati finds itself trailing the Colts and Dolphins, both sitting at 6-7. The Bengals are currently ranked 10th in the conference, while the Ravens, Chargers, and Broncos hold the coveted wild-card spots. The playoff race is heating up, and every game counts.
| Rank | Team | Record |
| 1 | Chiefs | 12-1 |
| 2 | Bills | 10-3 |
| 3 | Steelers | 10-3 |
| 4 | Texans | 8-5 |
| 5 | Ravens | 8-5 |
| 6 | Chargers | 8-5 |
| 7 | Broncos | 8-5 |
| 8 | Colts | 6-7 |
| 9 | Dolphins | 6-7 |
| 10 | Bengals | 5-8 |
How can the Bengals still reach the postseason?
Despite the positive momentum from their recent win, the Bengals face an uphill battle to make the playoffs. The three-win gap between Cincinnati and the current wild-card leaders—Chargers, Ravens, and Broncos—means their chances are slim. To have a shot, the Bengals would likely need to win all their remaining games while hoping for losses from those ahead of them.
With Pittsburgh leading the AFC North at 10-3, the Bengals’ chances of winning their division are effectively dashed. If they are to make a playoff run, it will require a strong finish to the season, combined with a bit of luck from other teams.
Just four weeks remain in the NFL regular season, and if any team appears vulnerable, it might be the Broncos. They have a challenging schedule ahead, facing the Colts, Chargers, Bengals, and Chiefs. While Denver has won its last three games, the Bengals could capitalize if they stumble.
Bengals remaining schedule
Cincinnati’s upcoming schedule features two teams with losing records, which could provide them with opportunities to gain momentum. However, the final two games against Denver and Pittsburgh will pose significant challenges.
Here’s a look at the Bengals’ final four-game stretch of the 2024 campaign:
| Week | Date | Matchup | Time (ET) |
| 15 | Dec. 15 | at Titans | 1 p.m. |
| 16 | Dec. 22 | vs. Browns | 1 p.m. |
| 17 | TBD | vs. Broncos | TBD |
| 18 | TBD | at Steelers | TBD |
If the Bengals can win their final four games, they could put themselves in a position to sneak into the playoffs, especially if the Broncos falter. Hypothetically, this scenario would allow Burrow to lead his team into the postseason, a feat that would be nothing short of remarkable given the challenges they’ve faced.
Bengals updated playoff chances
Prior to Cincinnati’s win over the Cowboys in Week 14, analysts estimated that a victory would give the Bengals a mere 3% chance of making the playoffs. While that may seem low, it’s a reminder that in the NFL, every game is critical, and every win can shift the narrative.
As the Bengals gear up for their remaining games, the excitement is palpable. Can Burrow and his teammates rally to make a late-season push? With the right combination of determination, skill, and a little help from their rivals, the Bengals could still make a run for the playoffs. The journey is far from over, and fans will be watching closely as the drama unfolds on the field.
