2008 AFC North Predictions

2008 AFC North preview from MadduxSports.com. After studying the NFL teams get signed up for our NFL Football Picks for the top handicappers on the internet.

2008 AFC North Division Preview
By Adam Barone

1. Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4): The Steelers were the top defense in the NFL in 2007, and went 7-1 at home. Rashard Mendenhall will take a lot of pressure off of Willie Parker in the running game, which should also help out Ben Roethlisberger and the 22nd ranked passing attack. Parker could even be better if he’s not expected to carry the ball 136 times per game. Linebacker Lamar Woodley should improve the new steel curtain, making Pittsburgh tough to beat. Look for them to easily outlast the upstart Browns atop the division.

2. Cleveland Browns (9-7): Cleveland surprised many last season, coming out of nowhere with their explosive offense. They won’t sneak up on anyone in 2008. A tougher schedule and still far below average defense will slow them down. Derek Anderson needs to prove that for real.

3. Baltimore Ravens (9-7): Don’t forget that the Ravens went 13-3 two seasons ago. This is almost exactly the same team. They ranked 6th overall in yards allowed in 2007, despite some injuries. Quarterback is still an issue, but a new coaching staff could bring just the right amount of enthusiasm for the Ravens to rebound. Draft analysts made sure everyone knew that Joe Flacco can throw the ball to Alaska, and that has to count for something, doesn’t it?

4. Cincinnati Bengals (6-10): The Bengals have been trying for years to undo their image as the laughing stock of the league, but seem to be chasing their tails. Repeatedly drafting murderers is not the way to solve that problem. The losses of Justin Smith and Chris Henry leave them without much talent aside from Carson Palmer, Chad Johnson, and T.J. Houshmazilly—Championship.

We have broken down each AFC North team even further to give you the edge this season. Read the individual football previews of the Ravens, Steelers, Bengals, and Browns from Maddux Sports.