Dawgs By Nature
As the NFL season kicks off this weekend, many will be paying attention to the AFC North, arguably one of the most competitive divisions in the league. Week 1 opens up with a divisional matchup between the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals, but a lot can change and evolve throughout the season – nothing is set in stone. Here are my predictions for the AFC North this season
Division Winner: Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens are the overwhelming favorite to win the AFC North again. They are coming off a 12-5 season with MVP-caliber play from Lamar Jackson and powerful offensive performances from Derrick Henry. With their roster continuity & John Harbaugh’s steady leadership, Baltimore should have another double-digit win season while claiming the AFC North title.
Wild Card: Cincinnati Bengals
Last season was a struggle in Cincinnati, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Despite those concerns, they still finished the season at 9-8, thanks to their high-powered offense featuring Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins. An offense like that will always keep this team in playoff contention. A wild card spot with 10 wins feels like the most likely outcome for this roster.
3rd Place: Pittsburgh Steelers
41-year-old Aaron Rodgers joins the Steelers this season, giving this team one of the widest ranges of possible outcomes in the entire league. Although Mike Tomlin has never had a losing season as head coach in Pittsburgh, their weaknesses on the offensive line and uncertainty at quarterback could give him his first losing season. 8-9 is a probable record for this team.
4th Place: Cleveland Browns
Following a brutal 3-14 season, the expectations are extremely low for this roster. There are several coaching staff and roster changes on this team, notably at the quarterback position, which also gives this team a wide range of potential outcomes. The Browns could be frisky in some matchups, but given their recent struggles, 5 wins seems like a realistic outcome.
Let me know what you think in the comments – What are your AFC North predictions for this season?
