With rosters all but set and preseason but a short few weeks ahead of us, it is time to dive into the heart of the NFL and predict some records! Today we are looking one of the most historic divisions in the conference with the AFC North and seeing where we think the chips will fall.
Cincinnati Bengals: 12-5
It feels inevitable that Joe Burrow will march the explosive Bengals unit straight into the AFC Championship game, and there is little reason to think they won’t accomplish just that. With a stout defense, elite quarterback, and weapons everywhere, Cincinnati is poised to strike once again.
Baltimore Ravens: 9-8
The winds of change are blowing through Baltimore, and although they were able to retain their franchise quarterback in Lamar Jackson, the Raven offense is set to look quite different. With an emphasis on getting the ball down the field to a hand full of new weapons, and the usual stout Baltimore defense, the Ravens are in a good position to make a playoff push.
Cleveland Browns: 9-8
With one of the most stacked rosters in the entire league, it will be up to this Cleveland coaching staff and embattled quarterback to bring it all together. Adding Za’Darius Smith to bookend all-pro edge rusher Myles Garrett is going to create a nightmare wrecking crew of a pass rush in front of an already solid unit. If the offense can manage to keep up, the Browns may very well find themselves in playoff contention.
Pittsburgh Steelers: 7-10
Though the Steelers found themselves on a 5-1 winning stretch at the end of the season, it is reasonable to expect a bit of a slump from the team before their eventual resurgence. It will ultimately fall on the shoulders of sophomore quarterback Kenny Pickett and a retooled offensive line, which could take some time to meld together. If Pickett ascends and the line is stable, perhaps the Pittsburgh can make the playoff leap.
