2006 AFC North Preview

Here come the Pittsburgh Steelers! They are manned, despite quarterback Ben Roethlisberger’s poor motoring judgment during the off-season, and ready to take on the entire league. But not so fast.

There have been some important changes in the division. First, there’s the matter of Steve McNair. He’s now the starting QB for Baltimore, giving them an impressive new weapon. The Ravens and Steelers meet on November 26 and December 24 (nothing like spending the holidays together); those two games could determine the AFC championship.

There’s also the Cincinnati Bengals. They won the division in 2005 and were eliminated by Pittsburgh in the playoffs when quarterback Carson Palmer was injured. If Palmer is able to recover from his knee injury, the Bengals will vie for the top spot. However, Cincinnati has a difficult schedule that includes the Pats in October and Indy in December. Their final regular season game is at home against the Steelers.

Finally, there’s Cleveland—a team that’s shown improvement. For the Browns, a lot depends upon the performance of second-year QB and first-time starter Charlie Frye. Chances are his play will make or break the team.

2006 AFC North Predictions

The NFL’s hard salary cap helps create parity in the league. With a tweak here or there a smart GM and coach can turn the tide. Have Cleveland GM Phil Savage and head coach Romeo Crennel—two savvy guys—done just that? Is the addition of McNair and talented RB Mike Anderson (Denver) about to turn the tide in Baltimore? And what about those Bengals, who have upgraded their “D” during the off-season?

Pittsburgh to win the division? Probably… but then again the AFC North is the biggest crap shoot and all 4 of the teams have a shot at winning the title.

Predicted order of finish, click on the team name for a more in-depth look at the professional football club.

1) Pittsburgh Steelers
2) Baltimore Ravens
3) Cincinnati Bengals
4) Cleveland Browns

This season be sure to bookmark our Free Live NFL Odds Page containing up to the minute lines for all of the scheduled NFL games.