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July 23, 2008
NFL Division Previews: AFC North
The NFL season is approaching quickly, and with that, EZB will be providing previews of each division in the league. Up today: the AFC North
Pittsburgh Steelers
Why They Might Win the Division
Pick any of the myriad of reasons. The Steelers had a dominant defense in 2007, ranking third against both the run and pass. QB Ben Roethlisberger had his coming out party, throwing for 32 TD's, and could be poised to repeat the same type of year. Adding rookies Rashard Mendenhall at RB and Limas Sweed at WR will only help.
Why They Might Not Win the Division
Losing Alan Faneca on the offensive line is a blow, and the Steelers need to protect Roethlisberger better - only six NFL teams allowed more sacks than they did. Obviously, serious injuries to Roethlisberger, S Troy Polamalu, DT Casey Hampton or others could derail their season.
Cleveland Browns
Why They Might Win the Division
The Browns offense was a top-10 unit last season, and because so many of the key players are still maturing, it could be even better in 2008. They also took the steps to add defensive players like tackles Shaun Rogers and Corey Williams.
Why They Might Not Win the Division
RB Jamal Lewis turns 29 in August, and he has already accumulated over 2,100 carries. Should he falter, the team lacks depth at the position. And despite the additions of Rogers and Williams, Cleveland's defense must dramatically improve, especially in the secondary.
Baltimore Ravens
Why They Might Win the Division
Only one team was better than the Ravens at stopping the run last season, and the defense returns the likes of LB Ray Lewis, DT Haloti Ngata, LB Bart Scott, CB Chris McAlister, DE/LB Terrell Suggs and S Ed Reed.
Why They Might Not Win the Division
Unfortunately, their 17 point-per-game offense also returns, and either Joe Flacco, Kyle Boller or Troy Smith will be under center. We've seen what Boller can do, and though Flacco and Smith offer the promise of the unknown, both are young and inexperienced. Losing Hall of Fame OT Jonathan Ogden certainly won't help matters any.
Cincinnati Bengals
Why They Might Win the Division
The Bengals should still be able to put points up. They were 11th in scoring in 2007, and had a top-10 passing game. RB Rudi Johnson returns, and he claims he is completely healthy and in great shape. Don't forget Leon Hall and Jonathan Joseph, who possess a lot of promise at cornerback.
Why They Might Not Win the Division
Marvin Lewis has not shown himself to be competent at running the operation, and WR Chad Johnson may or may not decide to be a disruption this year. And that defense still has some gaping holes, especially at defensive tackle.
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