AFC NORTH PREVIEW

The first of 8 divisional previews, for the next two weeks I will be releasing my predictions for each divisional winner and the impact players in those divisions

The Bengals, Ravens and Steelers will fiercely compete for the winner of this division. History shows that this division traditionally either makes it to an AFC championship or the Super bowl at least once every four years. And given the fact that Cincinnati does not dominate the division, only winning about once every 4 years expect Baltimore to resurge as the number one team in the division, but expect two AFC North teams to make the playoffs.

Baltimore Ravens (11-5)

Joe Flacco is ELITE, and he has already proven that on the biggest stage. He has lead his team to the playoffs in each of the first 5 years in the league, and missed out on the playoffs the very last game of the 2013-14 season, in his first year without future hall of famers Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. Ray Rice has seemed to retrieve the former lightning he had exploding through holes and if not, between Pierce, Forsett, and Taliaferro they look to be in good shape on the ground. Steve Smith is highly motivated and out to prove he is no senior citizen. Defensively Suggs and Ngata will continue to lead the defensive unit, hoping that Webb returns to previous form after an injury-marred season. I am completely sold on Baltimore returning to prominence and battling with New England, and Denver for a shot at another Superbowl opportunity.

Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)

One thing we know about Mike Tomlin is that he does not settle for mediocrity for too long. The problem with the Steelers, much like what the Ravens have had to deal with in recent past is, managing your aging veterans. Do you cut them like James Farrier, and Ryan Clark and bring in younger talent to bounce back quickly, or do you respectfully allow players like Polamalu to play out their declining careers as starters and continue to be the weak link in the steel armor. Offensively, we know that between Tomlin and Haley they are getting back to their roots. With the O-line shaping out to protect Big Ben, and the addition of LeGarrette Blount look for the Steelers to lead the division in rushing. Antonio Brown’s production will be instrumental in the success of this team.

Cincinnati Bengals (8-8)

Adios, Marvin. During your time in Ohio you produced 5 playoff appearances in 12 NFL seasons and never advanced past the 1st round. You signed, sealed, and delivered your franchise over to a Quarterback named Andy and now your successor will be stuck with him. The Bengals much like the Browns have a solid group, with playmakers on both sides. But historically this franchise does not stay good for that long, and this is the end of their run. A.J. Green will see more doubles than the Williams sisters; there 2nd year Running back Giovanni will hit a sophomore slump while he shares the carries among a committee of backs. While the defense remains a solid Top 10 contributor, rookie corner Dennard will struggle with lightning fast Torrey Smith and Antonio Brown. And let’s not forget that Geno Atkins is returning from a devastating injury.

Cleveland Browns (8-8)

I’m not sure how close we are to the Johnny Football era in Cleveland but the public may want to pump their breaks on the starting QB. Johnny has not “jumped off my screen” in preseason play. I know we got a small sample size to judge from but Coach Pettine is knows in his heart of hearts that Hoyer is capable of leading this team to the playoffs especially if their Defense touts a Top 5 ranking. There have been plenty of Superbowl champions who have hung their belt on their top ranked Defense and an all out stud at Running Back. See the 2001 Baltimore Ravens (Jamal Lewis RB), the 2002 Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Mike Alstott and Michael Pittman)and even the 2014 Seattle Seahawks (Marshawn Lynch). If Cleveland can somehow muster 21-24 points per game, they may surprise a few teams.

Breakout player

Torrey Smith; Not that Torrey has been anything but great in his first 3 seasons. He has steadily improved in yards. Although his touchdowns have taken a dip, he has clearly separated himself as thee go to guy in Baltimore. His game resembles other stand out wideouts and would be classified in the “fast, deep threat” category along with players such as Desean Jackson, and Mike Wallace. In addition, the year in which he found the endzone the most times was the same year they had Anquan Boldin, a la the tough physical possession receiver that kept safeties honest. Expect his stats after 16+ games to resemble something close to 1300 yards receiving and at least 6 touchdowns.

Impressive youngster

Dri Archer

The running back from Kent State has shown flashes of Darren Sproles-like ability throughout training camp and the first preseason game. He gives an aspect to the Steelers offense and special teams that the Steelers do not usually possess. Look out for Todd Haley to mix this special playmaker into different formations.

Chances are….

The Ravens or Steelers will get to the AFC championship game. With such a competitive division, no team will have fewer than 8 wins. The Browns defense kept them in nearly every game last year, and with the emergence of Manziel expect to see them win a few of those last minute games they nearly won last year. Unfortunately it won’t be enough to pass its bigger brothers in the AFC north. I believe Baltimore wins the division, and Pittsburgh gets the last wild card place.

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