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?
