Colts and Bengals Clinch Playoff Spots With Late Wins, Steelers Eliminated

The AFC playoff chase went from a potentially exciting final weekend to decided in the final ten minutes of today’s early games. The Bengals and Steelers engaged in a game to see who wanted to lose more, with Pittsburgh eventually prevailing on that count when Ben Roethlisberger again threw a late interception that set up the game winning 43 yard field goal from Josh Brown.

Previously, both coaches had tried long field goals that didn’t even come close. Cincinnati had then punted, setting up the final interception with less than a minute left.

Meanwhile, Indianapolis again won a game that they probably had no business winning. They turned the hapless Chiefs into an offensive yardage machine. Kansas City outgained the Colts 507 to 288, but had a red zone turnover from Brady Quinn and a pick six, and could only get 13 points. The Chiefs needed 508 yards, as Quinn was also stuffed on a key 4th and 1 sneak in Colts territory. Indianapolis then put together their best drive, to take the 20-13 lead when Andrew Luck connected with Reggie Wayne in the back of the end zone.

Houston lost to Minnesota at home today, meaning the #1 seed is still in doubt, but the identity of the participants is now set: Houston, Denver, New England, Baltimore, Indianapolis, and Cincinnati.

[photo via USA Today Sports Images]