Predicted order of finish:
- Baltimore Ravens (14-4)
- Cleveland Browns (11-6)
- Pittsburgh Steelers (11-6)
- Cincinnati Bengals (4-13)
Analysis
This and the NFC West are the toughest divisions in the NFL. One could argue that this division has three playoff-caliber teams, and the Bengals may not be an easy out this season.
If Ravens QB Lamar Jackson gets his ass together in terms of COVID-preparedness, the AFC North will be Baltimore’s to lose.
The Ravens are strong on BOTH sides of the ball. They have a strong running game, anchored by an outstanding offensive line. The Ravens also have a great front seven, and allowed around 18 points per game last season.
If the passing game develops to its full potential in Baltimore, the Ravens will run roughshod not only in the AFC North, but in the AFC, period. That will fall on Jackson’s shoulders — mask up, bro!
The Browns are dealing with something they aren’t used to — lofty expectations. How will QB Baker Mayfield and Co. handle it will define this season.
Speaking of Baker, do the Browns have enough faith in him to pay him? If they don’t do this soon, this may loom over and possibly derail the season of a VERY talented team — on paper.
My beloved Pittsburgh Steelers are being slept on like crazy, and for good reason.
QB Ben Roethlisberger, aka “Big Ben”, played like “Large Benjamin” the second half of the season. His post-elbow surgery arm hampered him to the point he is playing far older than his age.
We didn’t have any semblance of a running game last season. Hell, my old ass is faster than their running backs. Pittsburgh’s ‘turrible’ offensive line didn’t help matters as well, and the front office didn’t improve it a whole lot in the offseason.
However, our defense is still top-notch. We still have a a great front seven, led by TJ Watt and Cam Heyward. We have Devin Bush coming back from injury. And we still have this free safety named Minkah Fitzpatrick who makes plays in the secondary.
Who knows what to expect from the Bengals this season?
I live in Cincinnati, there is a mix between hopeful fans and those waiting for the other shoe to drop — AGAIN. Will the team ruin another franchise QB in Joe Burrow? Will the Bengals assemble an offensive line that is worth a damn to protect him? Will they improve their defensive front seven? Will the head coach — whatever his name is — get fired?
Who the hell knows what will happen in Bengaldom?
Categories: NFL
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