The AFC North got a little interesting last season. The so-called favorites, the Ravens, fell flat on their face and finished in last which allowed the Steelers to reclaim the division crown. However, the big story last year was the Browns, who had an insane offensive explosion lead by Derek Anderson of all people and only missed the playoffs because the Colts laid down for the Titans to end the season. The Browns come into this season with high expectations, but I’m far from ready to jump on their bandwagon….
1. Pittsburgh Steelers – I’m going to be boring and predictable again here and go with the Steelers to win this division again. They are clearly on a lower tier than New England, Indy, and San Diego, but that could be enough to win this division. All 4 of the AFC North teams have a beastly schedule this year, squaring off with the AFC South and NFC East, probably the 2 best divisions in football, and the Steelers also have to face New England and San Diego. It’s a good thing they have their 3 division rivals to beat up on….
2. Cleveland Browns – I was tempted to put the Bengals here, but I’m not sure whose defense is more atrocious. The Browns are lucky enough to play in the same division as the confused Ravens and incarcerated Bengals, so they get the nod. I think its a long shot that their offense will be as strong as last season, and yes, their defense is horrible. Take a look at their schedule this year….they could easily start 1-6. I’m thinking they finish 6-10, 8-8 tops and miss the playoffs.
3. Cincinnati Bengals – I think the Bungles are in for another season of controversy, disappointments, and arrests, and if the ownership has any sense, it could cost Marvin Lewis his job. They finally cut ties with Chris Henry as a sign of maybe toughening up against their criminals, but now Chad Johnson is turning a little more into T.O. every day.
4. Baltimore Ravens – This team had a first round bye in the playoffs in 2006? For as vaunted as the Ravens defense has been this decade, let’s face it, last year they were very average if not terrible. Now they are just another year older. Their offense is also as pathetic as its been for the past 10 years. I’m guessing that all 3 of their QB’s, Kyle Boller, Troy Smith, and Joe Flacco will see significant playing time this year while throwing to their aging receivers. With the AFC North’s brutal schedule, add the Ravens to Dolphins, Raiders, Chiefs, Falcons, 49ers, and Rams as the teams fighting for the first overall pick of 2009.
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