In order to make the AFC playoffs, the Baltimore Ravens needed to beat the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday and also see the Miami Dolphins lose to the New York Jets. The Dolphins did their part, losing to the Jets, but unfortunately for John Harbaugh, his Ravens did not do theirs. Despite four interceptions by Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton, Baltimore lost, 34-17, to Cincinnati on Sunday.
Ravens vs. Bengals 2013 recap: Baltimore blows playoff chances in loss to Cincinnati
The Ravens would have won the second AFC wild card, but Joe Flacco was unable to take advantage of multiple opportunities. Meanwhile, the Bengals wait to see if they will get a bye week.
Neither the Ravens nor Dolphins will be in the playoffs; With the Pittsburgh Steelers beating the Cleveland Browns 20-7, it will either be the Steelers or the San Diego Chargers for the second wild card.
The Bengals won mostly thanks to a stout performance on defense, holding Joe Flacco to just 192 yards on 30-of-50 passing with three interceptions. Overall, they held Baltimore to just 222 total yards and six punts. Dalton threw those four interceptions, but also had 281 passing yards with two touchdowns and a rushing score. Cincinnati improves to 11-5 on the year, and if the New England Patriots lose on Sunday afternoon, then the Bengals will move up to the two seed in the AFC.
Otherwise, they will be the three seed and host either Pittsburgh or San Diego in the first round of the playoffs.
Fantasy Studs and Duds
AJ Green had 61 yards and a touchdown for the Bengals, but running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis was held to 66 rushing yards, and Gio Bernard was held to just 22 yards. Bernard did add 51 receiving yards, however.
Ray Rice had 50 total yards for Baltimore, mercifully ending a very disappointing season for Rice. Torrey Smith was held to just 27 yards and no touchdowns.
Did They Cover?
The Bengals were 5-point favorites, per OddsShark.com, so they did cover.
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