Well, we still have a 23% chance lol

[Millhouse]

Based on last three years, 9-8 to 10-7 is the minimum record to get in playoffs. If Bengals want in, they can only lose one to two games at most. Beating the Chargers will be huge in getting into the playoffs too, as they are 6th in AFC playoff race. If they lose, they pretty much will have to run the table. Maybe next year they will go into the season actually prepared and ready to play at a high level.

Last year 10-7 was minimum record to make playoffs with two teams at that record.
In 2022, 9-8 was minimum with two teams making playoffs, and the third 9-8 team left out (Pitt)
In 2021, 9-7-1 was minimum (Pitt) to make playoffs. Three 9-8 teams were left out.
(AFC records)