OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Finishing unbeaten at home won't be nearly as satisfying for the Baltimore Ravens unless they can achieve another franchise first: going undefeated in the AFC North.
The Ravens already have swept Pittsburgh and Cleveland. Beating Cincinnati on Sunday will make them a perfect 6-0 within the division. More importantly, a victory will give Baltimore (11-4) the AFC North title, a first-round bye in the postseason and at least one home playoff game.
It won't be easy. Not only are the Ravens 3-4 on the road, they've lost two straight in Cincinnati and five of the last six. Plus, the Bengals (9-6) are vying for a spot in the playoffs.
Baltimore could be without guard Marshal Yanda, who left Sunday's win over Cleveland with rib and thigh contusions.