Predictions continued

AFC North

1.) Pittsburgh Steelers- Projected Record: 11-5 - Playoff Bound

If it had not been for schedule reasons, I would have placed the Ravens over the Steelers in my rankings. While I do believe that the Ravens are the better team, their schedule is a little tougher (Both have very difficult remaining schedules). The fate of this team rests on the shoulders of QB Ben Roethlisberger. If he plays like he did against the Colts on Sunday night, theSteelers will not win the AFC North.

2.) Baltimore Ravens - Projected Record: 9-7 - Playoff Bound.

Joe Flacco has been tremendous for the Ravens, and along with their sturdy D, they have to be considered a contender. Unfortunately for them, their remaining schedule pits them against 4 other legitimate contenders. Eventually Joe Flacco will play like a rookie, and eventually the defense will give up more points than the offense can muster. Fortunately, the Ravens, because of a weak AFC, will, according to my projections, be making the playoffs. 

3.) Cleveland Browns - Projected Record: 5-11 

There is no doubt that the decision to start Brady Quinn will turn out to be a good one. However, there are too many other holes on this team for there to be a large enough turn-around. With the right off-season moves, expect the Browns to be a contender in '09.

4.) The Cincinnati Bengals: Projected Record: 3-13

So much went wrong this year in Cincinnati, and I do not know why. Prior to the season, I had them doing much better than they are. They are loaded with offensive talent, and like the Saints, I thought their offensive prowess would be able to override their poor defensive play. I was, obviously, completely wrong. While their defense has met my expectations, their offense has under-performed all possible expectations.