The NFL has faced significant backlash from fans regarding its Week 18 schedule and the decision to feature the Pittsburgh Steelers versus the Baltimore Ravens in the coveted Sunday Night Football (SNF) slot. This matchup effectively serves as the championship for the AFC North, overshadowing a critical clash between the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks which has been relegated to a less favorable Saturday evening time.
With only one playoff spot secured, the Steelers, having fallen short of clinching a berth the previous Sunday, will host the Ravens, who are fighting to keep their postseason hopes alive. The winner of this pivotal game will advance to the playoffs, while the loser will begin their offseason early. In contrast, the 49ers and Seahawks, both playoff-bound, will compete for the top seed in the NFC, which comes with a vital first-round bye.
Fans have expressed their frustrations on social media, questioning how the NFL could overlook the significance of the 49ers-Seahawks game, especially after a thrilling victory by the 49ers against the Chicago Bears. “How are the Seahawks and 49ers not Sunday night football?” one irate fan posted on X, emphasizing the mismatch between the two games.
Critics labeled the scheduling decision as “criminal,” with one user questioning, “How”d yall mess up the most obvious Sunday Night Football decision ever?” Many have also voiced concerns regarding the Steelers” performance under head coach Mike Tomlin, with some stating, “NO ONE wants to see Mike Tomlin meltdown on primetime.”
The Ravens” quarterback situation has added to the drama, as Lamar Jackson has been sidelined due to injury. Although Jackson”s availability for Week 18 remains uncertain, backup Tyler Huntley led the Ravens to a significant win over the Green Bay Packers, keeping their playoff aspirations alive.
On the other hand, the flex scheduling has resulted in a shorter preparation week for both the Seahawks and 49ers, both of whom played the previous Sunday, while the Ravens benefit from an extended week. Critics have noted that “Seattle and San Francisco should be on full days rest” and pointed out the imbalance created by the scheduling.
Additionally, the Carolina Panthers will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday in a game that could have playoff implications depending on the outcome of the Atlanta Falcons versus Los Angeles Rams matchup on Monday Night Football. Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos, New England Patriots, and Jacksonville Jaguars are all in contention for the top seed in the AFC, with the Broncos currently holding a tiebreaker advantage over the Patriots.
