The AFC North is shaping up to be the most competitive division in football for the 2024 season. Every team in the division presents unique challenges, and it’s no stretch to say that all four have legitimate postseason aspirations. Here is our NJ.Bet expert’s AFC North betting review and predictions.
Baltimore Ravens back looking for another Super Bowl
The Baltimore Ravens enter the season as the early favorites to win the division, and for good reason. The addition of running back Derrick Henry is a game-changer for their offense. Henry’s bruising style of play adds a power running dimension that pairs perfectly with the speed and agility of quarterback Lamar Jackson. Together, they will form one of the most dynamic backfields in the NFL. Henry’s ability to wear down defenses and Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities make the Ravens offense difficult to predict and even harder to stop.
However, the Ravens have some concerns on the defensive side of the ball. The loss of defensive coordinator Mike MacDonald, who left to become the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, and the departure of key defensive players have left the unit in a state of transition. While Baltimore has historically fielded strong defenses, they’ll need to adapt quickly to avoid becoming vulnerable in a division full of offensive firepower.
Despite those question marks, the Ravens remain a top contender in the AFC North. Lamar Jackson, when healthy, is one of the most electric players in the league, and with the added support from Henry in the backfield, this team could have a legitimate shot at not just the division but a deep playoff run.
Cincinnati Bengals have Burrows healthy, could challenge Ravens
The Cincinnati Bengals are another team that could easily take the division title if things break their way. Last season, despite losing star quarterback Joe Burrow for most of the year, the Bengals managed to scrape together nine wins, showcasing the depth and resilience of their roster. Burrow’s health is always a concern, but when he’s on the field, the Bengals are a force to be reckoned with.
Burrow leads a high-powered offense that features standout weapons like wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. If Burrow can stay healthy and play all 17 games, the Bengals will be in the mix for not just the division, but perhaps a Super Bowl run. Burrow’s leadership, accuracy, and ability to perform in clutch moments make Cincinnati a team no one wants to face in the playoffs.
On defense, the Bengals may not have the star power of their offense, but they’ve proven to be a solid and opportunistic unit. The defense will need to step up against the likes of Lamar Jackson, Deshaun Watson, and whoever is under center for the Steelers. If they can hold up, the Bengals have the potential to be a serious threat in the AFC.
Cleveland Browns cou
The Cleveland Browns are the wildcard in the division. They shocked the league last year by winning 11 games, with veteran Joe Flacco stepping in at quarterback late in the season. Now, with Deshaun Watson expected to play a full season, the Browns’ ceiling is even higher. If Watson can return to the Pro Bowl form he displayed in Houston, Cleveland could emerge as the most dangerous team in the AFC North.
Cleveland’s defense is arguably the best in the division, anchored by pass rusher Myles Garrett and a formidable secondary. Last year, the defense often carried the team in tight games. This season, if Watson can perform at a high level and the offense takes a step forward, the Browns have the potential to make a deep playoff run.
The key for Cleveland will be Watson’s ability to live up to his massive contract. If he struggles, the Browns could find themselves stuck in the middle of the pack. But if Watson plays like the elite quarterback he was in Houston, Cleveland has the talent on both sides of the ball to win the division and compete for a Super Bowl.
Pittsburgh Steelers
As always, the Pittsburgh Steelers will be competitive under head coach Mike Tomlin. Tomlin has never had a losing season in his 17-year tenure with the Steelers, and that streak is unlikely to end this year. Pittsburgh is always in the mix, but in a division as loaded as the AFC North, nine or 10 wins might not be enough to secure a playoff spot.
The Steelers’ strength lies in their defense, particularly their pass rush, led by T.J. Watt. Watt, when healthy, is one of the best defensive players in the league and can single-handedly disrupt opposing offenses. Pair him with a stout front seven and a secondary that has improved over the last few years, and the Steelers’ defense will keep them in games, especially against high-octane offenses in the division.
Offensively, the Steelers are still trying to find their identity. Second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett showed flashes of potential last season, but he’ll need to take a significant leap forward if Pittsburgh is going to keep pace with the likes of Cincinnati and Baltimore. The Steelers have talent at the skill positions, with Najee Harris at running back and talented wide receivers like Diontae Johnson and George Pickens. But without consistency at quarterback, Pittsburgh may find itself on the outside looking in come playoff time.
Odds to win AFC North with New Jersey sportsbooks via NJ.bet
- Baltimore Ravens +110
- Cincinnati Bengals +180
- Cleveland Browns +600
- Pittsburgh Steelers +1100
The odds based on the current offers by NJ sportsbooks.
Where should Garden State bettors place their money?
The Ravens are probably the best team, but it might be worth a longshot play on the Browns at +600 with the promo code deals, from Fanduel NJ.
