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Early look at the AFC North
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Big Ben: seen here at a reunion with his sorority sisters
The sentiment around Baltimore seems to be that 2009 is the year of the Ravens.
An up and coming quarterback, a beefed up offensive line, and a healthier defensive line with more speed in the secondary. But, while the faithful see 2009 through purple colored glasses, there are skeptics who believe that the Ravens will fare no better than .500 due to their inability to acquire a legitimate receiving threat.
AFC NORTH
Pittsburgh Steelers
What's good: The Steelers have offensive weapons and defensive playmakers, easily making them the most balanced team in the North. What puts them ahead of the rest of the division is their abiltiy to find a way to win games in the final minutes. Moreover, they never make the big mistake; instead they often force other teams to do so.
What's bad: The offensive line still stinks. In fact, it may have gotten even worse during the offseason as they lost Marvel Smith to free agency. Smith had been injured last season, but still remained an integral part of the line in the grand scheme of things. Also, the secondary took a hit, losing Bryant McFadden to the Cardinals.
Chance to win the division: 2 to 1. They hold the keys, it's up to the Ravens to get in the driver's seat.
Where they'll wind up: Until the Ravens prove they can muster up enough offensive, the Steelers should repeat as North Champs in 2009.
Baltimore Ravens
What's good: The Ravens' offensive line got younger, tougher, and more athletic with the additions of Michael Oher and Matt Birk. Moreover, John Harbaugh enters his second season, thus providing him the opportunity to expand on last year's success as a rookie head coach. In addition to that, the Ravens were able to improve the cornerback position by adding Dominique Foxworth, Chris Carr, and Lardarius Webb.
What's bad: The team has no number one receiver. Moreover, Derrick Mason is banged up and in a contract dispute as he has demanded a one-year extension. Mark Clayton and Demetrious Williams also have injury problems of their own, meaning that journeyman Kelly Washington is the only experienced receiver who has not been slowed by injury during mini camps. In addition to this, the team opted to part ways with Lorenzo Neal, meaning that Le'Ron McClain will play fullback more, taking away his opportunities to carry the ball 12-18 times per game.
Chance to win the division: 10 to 1. They lost to the Steelers three times last season; it was no fluke, they were overmatched. Until they prove they can score enough points to beat Pittsburgh, the Ravens are a wildcard team in 2009.
Where they'll wind up: The Ravens have enough defensive depth to compete week in and week out. However, they're lack of offensive firepower will stymie their attempt to enter the elite rung of NFL teams. They'll finish in the ballpark of 10 wins and secure a wildcard spot.
Cincinnati Bengals
What's good: Carson Palmer will be healthy for the 2009 season. Chad Ochocinco seems to be on board with remaining a Bengal, and the team managed to lessen the blow of losing TJ Houshmanzadeh by adding veteran receiver Laveranues Coles. Moreover, the team had a fairly decent draft, bolstering the o-line and the defensive front seven.
What's bad: The Bengals did little to upgrade the offensive line during free agency, and it's a stretch to think that top draft choice, Andre Smith can stablize things so quickly. The defense, which isn't as bad as it looks, did not improve during the offeseason.
Chance to win the division: 40 to 1. Even if Palmer plays like he's capable, his receiving corps is not as explosive as he'd like it to be. Moreover, the team lacks a strong running game, as Cedric Benson still has a lot to prove. They could win the division if Baltimore and Pittsburgh were both decimated by injuries and/or simply gave up by week 10.
Where they'll wind up: The Bengals have a chance to hit .500 if they can produce quality play on both sides of the ball. However, they're still a few years away from competing with the big boys of the North (despite what Gil Brandt says).
Cleveland Browns
What's good: Not much. If anything, there is hope that Brady Quinn will develop into a reliable starter in 2009. And--it's a reach--but Eric Mangini has one thing going for him, and that's that he is not Romeo Crennel.
What's bad: Just about everything. The Browns did nothing to upgrade the team during free agency. Signings like Corey Ivy, David Patten, Robert Royal, and Floyd "Porkchop" Womack are exactly why this organization continues to hang in limbo. Much like their failed draft picks of the last decade, they seem to lack any semblence of ability when it comes to grading talent. In addition to this, Braylon Edwards can't catch, Joe Jurevicius is suing the team for his staph infection, and the team's top three draft choices were a center and two receivers who are regarded as "possible solid number-threes." Add in the fact that Jamal Lewis was considered a "has-been" more than two years ago, and that should tell you where this team stands.
Chance to win the division: 100 to 1. Unless the NFL would suspend the rest of the AFC North Division and give it to the Browns by default, they have no chance.
Where they'll wind up: The Browns could easily be the worst team in the league. Chances are that they'll squeak out three or four wins.
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