Make no mistake, the upcoming AFC North home games against Pittsburgh and Cincinnati are paramount in the Ravens quest to snap a three season playoff drought. Baltimore currently possesses a 4-4 record including a 1-2 mark within the division. While it is technically possible for Baltimore to earn a postseason berth after losing one of these matchups, their margin for error would become razor thin with daunting road games remaining on the schedule.
The pressure will be on longtime quarterback Joe Flacco to deliver victories against these divisional foes. The first five years of his career produced efficient play and nine postseason victories.