What are Cincinnatis playoff odds heading into Week 14 matchup in Buffalo? Bengals news roundup

Published: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 10:00 am

Bengals' Playoff Hopes Hang by a Thread After Thanksgiving Victory

Cincinnati Bengals fans are clinging to a sliver of hope as their team heads into Week 14 against the Buffalo Bills. Despite a Thanksgiving victory over the Baltimore Ravens, the Bengals' playoff odds remain slim. According to ESPN, the Bengals have only a 7% chance of making the playoffs, while The New York Times Playoff Simulator gives them a slightly lower 6% chance.

The path to the postseason is narrow and demanding. The Bengals must win all their remaining games, including the upcoming matchup against the Bills. Furthermore, the Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers need to stumble, each losing at least two games, with the Steelers needing to lose at least once to the Ravens. This scenario would likely result in a three-way tie within the AFC North, with the Bengals potentially winning the division based on their divisional record.

The Bengals currently hold a 3-1 record within the division, with home games against the Ravens and Cleveland Browns still on the schedule. Winning those games would significantly boost their chances. However, the upcoming games against the Bills and Ravens pose a significant challenge. The Bengals' season may ultimately hinge on winning out, making each remaining game crucial.

Adding to the challenges, star player Trey Hendrickson will miss another game due to a core muscle injury. The team's reluctance to place him on injured reserve has raised questions about his status.

Despite the uphill battle, there are some positives. Data analysis indicates the Bengals have a strong record in cold-weather games, which could be an advantage in the upcoming game against the Bills. The return of quarterback Joe Burrow also offers a boost to the team's morale and performance.

BNN's Perspective:

The Bengals' playoff chances are undeniably long, but not entirely impossible. While the team faces a tough road ahead, their performance in cold-weather games and the potential impact of Burrow's return provide a glimmer of optimism. The next two games will be critical in determining whether the Bengals can mount a late-season surge.

Keywords: Bengals, playoff odds, AFC North, Bills, Ravens, Steelers, Trey Hendrickson, Joe Burrow, cold weather, NFL, Cincinnati, football, season, win, game

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