The NFL’s new black and blue division, the AFC North, boasts top defenses playing with speed and attitude and a mix of high-end quarterback play and struggles reminiscent of Trent Dilfer circa 2000.
Three of the four AFC North teams look poised to make the playoffs, defying expectations amid tough conference play. And the preseason favorite, the Cincinnati Bengals, is currently on the outside looking in, making this divisional showdown even more crucial.
Let’s start with the Cincinnati Bengals, whose strength revolves around their star quarterback Joe Burrow, known for his ability to extend plays and create opportunities. The team has evolved its offense to keep defenses guessing, propelling them to rise in offensive rankings after a shaky start.
However, the Bengals have some glaring weaknesses, particularly on defense. They struggle to contain explosive plays and lack the ability to create turnovers, putting additional pressure on their offense to perform consistently and sustain drives.
On the other hand, the Baltimore Ravens boast strong offense and defense, sitting atop the AFC North and the league in point differential and team DVOA. Their defense throws a variety of looks at opponents, while their explosive offense utilizes an effective mix of passing and running plays.
However, the Ravens need to work on minimizing turnovers, especially in the red zone, to maintain their competitive edge and avoid squandering close games. With ongoing turnover issues and health considerations, the Ravens will need to stay vigilant to maintain their strong standing in the AFC North.
