**Buffalo Bills Strengthen Hold on Second Place in AFC After Steelers' Loss**

The Buffalo Bills, despite being on a bye this week, have reason to celebrate. Their standings in the AFC improved after the Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a defeat against the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night in a snowy match in Ohio. The Steelers, who began the night trailing the Bills by just a half-game with an 8-2 record, now find themselves at 8-3. This loss significantly benefits the Bills, placing them a full game ahead of Pittsburgh for the critical second place in the AFC with a 9-2 record.

With Pittsburgh's setback, Buffalo is now only half a game behind the Kansas City Chiefs, who currently hold the top spot in the AFC. Securing the number one seed is crucial as it guarantees a bye week and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. On the other hand, landing the second seed ensures at least two home games in the playoffs. Moreover, if the Bills can widen the gap between themselves and the third and fourth seeds, they might be able to rest their key players in Week 18, allowing them to be well-prepared for the postseason.

As the weekend unfolds, more changes in the standings could be on the horizon. The Kansas City Chiefs are set to face the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, and the fourth-place Houston Texans will take on the Tennessee Titans. Additionally, the Baltimore Ravens, currently a game behind the Steelers in the AFC North, will play against the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football.

The playoff picture is ever-evolving, but as of now, the Bills have significantly bolstered their position in the race to the top.