The Cincinnati Bengals and the Baltimore Ravens are currently tied as favorites to win the AFC North title for the 2023-24 season, with odds at +145 at DraftKings Sportsbook. The Ravens had clinched the divisional title in the last season for the first time since 2019. However, they faced stiff competition from other teams within the division; three teams from the AFC North had made it to the playoffs- the highest number for any NFL division. The Cincinnati Bengals narrowly missed the playoffs, ending the season as the eighth-seed in the AFC. This was in part due to their star quarterback, Joe Burrow, missing seven games because of a wrist injury.
Baltimore may have won the division but they struggled within it, finishing with a 3-3 record. They performed better against non-divisional teams. On the other hand, the Steelers boasted an impressive divisional record of 5-1, better than any other team. The Ravens will have to navigate their way through a healthy Bengals and Browns roster if they are to repeat as division champions.
The Cincinnati Bengals, despite entering the 2023 season as one of the favorites, struggled throughout. Their star quarterback, Joe Burrow, was sidelined due to injuries, which saw a decline in their performance. They started the season 0-5 in the AFC North but clinched a win in the final game of the season against Cleveland.
The Cleveland Browns, who are currently at +550 odds, managed to enter the playoffs carried by Joe Flacco, who took over following Deshaun Watson’s shoulder injury. Flacco’s performance was exemplary, and he won Comeback Player of the Year. However, it remains to be seen if Watson can maintain his health in the 2024 season and take the Browns back into the playoffs.
Despite boasting the best divisional record, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ overall achievements were not as impressive. Their quarterback situation is also uncertain, with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields being the potential starters. They finished third in the division with a 5-1 record but their overall record was 10-7.
The 2024 season promises intense competition within the AFC North with the Bengals and Ravens going head-to-head for the title. The Browns and Steelers are also expected to cause some upsets in games. All these teams have star players in their rosters who could make all the difference in the upcoming season.
