Bengals Clinch: They Could Still Get The Second Seed

Dec 22, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard (25) celebrate after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Denver Broncos at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

With the Bengals clinching their fourth playoff appearance in a row, where they play and who they play is still in the air. It is still possible for the Bengals to get the second seed in the AFC playoffs and earn a first round bye. The problem is the Broncos and Steelers still stand in their way. Yes, I know the Bengals beat the Broncos on Monday Night Football, but they still are ahead by a half game in the standings. Here is how the seeding will play out for the Bengals based on Week 17.

If the Bengals beat the Steelers and Broncos beat Raiders:
The Bengals are guaranteed the third seed and win the AFC North for the second year in a row. They would also face either the San Diego Chargers or Baltimore Ravens.

If the Bengals win and Broncos lose:
The Bengals would get the second seed with a win and get a bye during the Wild Card round as well as home field advantage except against the Patriots, if the two make it to the AFC Championship game.

If the Bengals lose to the Steelers:
The Bengals would be the fifth seed and face the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium.

The Bengals can not get worse than a fifth seed and after what we saw against Peyton Manning, we might be foolish enough to believe that this team is good enough for anything. The only question remaining is, can they beat Pittsburgh at Heinz Field?

Here is the remaining schedule for those that matter:
Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers
Oakland Raiders at Denver Broncos
Cleveland Browns at Baltimore Ravens
San Diego Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs