Before I get to the AFC North, man, what a terrible game between Oregon and Boise State last night. You have to expect something like 42-38 when those teams play each other, but instead we got a 19-8 game (what kind of score is that?) with a ton of mistakes and bad play. Then of course there was that nice sucked punch after the game, probably the most exciting thing that happened all night. I hope Blount had fun playing football, cause he's not gonna be playing too many more games I think.
AFC North
1. Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4)
If you look at the Steelers last year, you've gotta think that their defense didn't get nearly enough credit for their Super Bowl victory. Back when the Ravens won it all, we heard about how their defense was the all-time greatest, and how they completely carried their offense. The same can be said for the Steelers last season. Big Ben's stats were nothing special (17 TDs to 15 INTs), Willie Parker and pretty much their entire running game was nonexistant, and their o-line gave up a ton of sacks. Still, and I hate this cliche, they know how to win games. The D is still the best in the NFL, and they didn't lose anyone of importance from last season. Even if the offense struggles again, they're the favorites in the division.
2. Baltimore Ravens (11-5)
The Ravens are kinda like the Steelers-lite. They play very similar brands of football, and have the same strengths and weaknesses. It seems like the Ravens have never had a good offense, but that could be changing soon if Flacco continues to develop and Ray Rice emerges as a no.1 RB. Their defense is 1b to the Steelers 1a. Watching Ravens/Steelers games is always fun, and it looks they'll be battling it out for North supremacy once again this year. The Ravens have the talent to overtake the Steelers, and with a couple more years for their young offensive players to develop, they could easily be the favorites.
3. Cincinatti Bengals (6-10)
Forget the Madden Curse, I think it's about time to take the HBO Hard Knocks curse seriously. 2001- the Ravens, coming off a Super Bowl win, lose in the playoffs, 2002- Cowboys, sucked, 2007 (next year it was on) -Chiefs, terrible, 2008- Cowboys, no playoffs. So it's the Bengals turn to be cursed this season. About the only reason for optimism for the Bengals this season is the return of Carson Palmer, and the (alleged) return of Chad Ochocino to form. They also added Laverneus Coles and Chris Henry has looked good at receiver, so they should have a much improved offense. I still wouldn't trust Cedric Benson at running back, hopefully they'll get smart and start Brian Leonard. The defense still isn't anything special, considering Dhani Jones might still be starting. They'll score more points, but don't expect a dramatic turnaround.
4. Cleveland Browns (4-12)
I was tempted to make Cleveland a surprise team of sorts this season, like everyone was expecting them to be last season, but then I realized it's the Browns and that wouldn't be a good idea. I'm rooting for my boy Brady Quinn to win the QB job and show something this season, but it's won't be easy with their o-line, Braylon Edwards dropping everything, and a nondescript running game. The defense isn't much better, actually it's probably worse. I like how the Browns turned the 5th pick of the draft into 3 average players from the Jets (thanks to Eric Mangini) and a center. A center will probably turn the team around. Sorry Cleveland, basketball season starts soon.
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