The Ravens will get away from football this weekend.
While the players and coaches taking a break for the much-needed bye, they will hope to get some help in the standings based on the games still being played.
Here's a look at today's games that will have an impact on the Ravens, and who you should want to win:
Bengals (3-4) vs. Redskins (4-3)9:30 a.m. (London)
The Cincinnati Bengals have struggled early in the season, but now they have a chance to get within striking distance of the Pittsburgh Steelers at the top of the AFC North. With the Ravens and Steelers both off this weekend, the Bengals know they have a chance to gain ground in the division race. They'll take on the Washington Redskins across the pond in London, and those games have proven to be unpredictable. The long trip can take a toll on teams, and the Ravens certainly hope that their friends down I-95 can take care of business against the Bengals.
Who to Root For:Redskins
Texans (4-3) vs. Lions (4-3)1 p.m.
The Houston Texans are currently leading the way in the AFC South, which doesn't actually have any effect on Baltimore. But if the Ravens were to get themselves in contention for an AFC wild-card spot later in the season, then they may end up battling with the Texans. For that reason, Ravens fans should be pulling for the NFC's Detroit Lions to come up with the win over Houston.
Who to Root For:Lions
Patriots (6-1) vs. Bills (4-3)1 p.m.
Ravens fans love to root against the rival New England Patriots, especially when they're going up against a Rex Ryan team. But this week should be the exception. The Patriots look poised to run away with the AFC East title again, and the Ravens aren't likely to catch them in the AFC standings. The more likely scenario would be for the Buffalo Bills to challenge for a wild-card spot late in the season, so the Ravens want them to fall back in that race. As much as it may pain Ravens fans to do, they should be pulling for Tom Brady and company this weekend.
Who to Root For:Patriots
Broncos (5-2) vs. Chargers (3-4)4:30 p.m.
The defending Super Bowl champions are tied for first place in the AFC West, and they will face a San Diego Chargers team coming off two-straight wins. The Chargers have plenty of ground to make up in their division race, but they have the talent to play their way into the wild-card picture. Just like it's best for the Patriots to beat the Bills, a Denver Broncos win over San Diego could benefit the Ravens in the long run.
Who to Root For:Broncos
Raiders (5-2) vs. Buccaneers (3-3)4:30 p.m.
The Oakland Raiders may be the best team the Ravens have played so far this year, and they are tied with Denver for first place in the West. But with the Raiders facing an NFC opponent, it's easy to find the rooting interest in this game. A loss by the Raiders could only end up helping the Ravens when it comes to the wild-card race.
Who to Root For:Buccaneers
Chiefs (4-2) vs. Colts (3-4)1 p.m.
Similar to the Ravens, the most likely path to the playoffs for Indianapolis is by winning their division. The Kansas City Chiefs are in a tougher division playing in the AFC West, so they may have to get to the postseason through a wild-card spot. With the Chiefs potentially in pursuit of the same wild-card bid as the Ravens, the Ravens should want to see the Colts win this one.
Who to Root For:Colts
