The NFL Spread Champ Season Preview

AFC North Edition

Yesterday we kicked off our divisional previews with a deep dive into the AFC East. We broke down the Buffalo Bills’ reloaded roster, the Miami Dolphins' high-powered offense, the New England Patriots’ rebuilding phase, and the New York Jets’ potential resurgence with Aaron Rodgers at the helm. Each team presents its own set of challenges and opportunities, and we gave you the insights needed to navigate the upcoming season.

Now, we turn our attention to the AFC North—the division that truly epitomizes grit and determination. Last season, for the first time since 1935, every team in the AFC North finished with a winning record, proving it to be the toughest division in football. As we dive into our team previews, we’ll explore the moves that these powerhouses made to stay on top, and how they plan to dominate in 2024.

Cincinnati Bengals 2024 Preview:

The Cincinnati Bengals are gearing up for a bounce-back season after a disappointing 2023, where Joe Burrow’s injuries derailed their playoff hopes. With Burrow back and healthy, the key focus is on protecting him better this year. To address their offensive line struggles, the Bengals brought in RT Trent Brown and drafted OT Amarius Mims, aiming to shore up a unit that ranked 26th in PFF's ratings.

Defensively, the Bengals addressed their secondary by re-signing Vonn Bell and adding former Raven Geno Stone, hoping to reduce the explosive plays that plagued them last season. On offense, the addition of WR Jermaine Burton could fill the void left by Tyler Boyd, offering another weapon for Burrow.

Looking at their 2024 schedule, the Bengals face a mix of tough matchups and winnable games. Early season tests include road games against the Chiefs and Ravens, and a mid-season clash with the Eagles. The final stretch features divisional battles and challenging road games against the Cowboys and Steelers. With this lineup, we project 10, maybe 11 wins, making the Bengals a strong pick for the over 9.5 wins on the alternate line.

Cleveland Browns 2024 Preview:

The Cleveland Browns are looking to build on their 11-win season in 2024, but the key challenge will be improving their red zone defense. Despite allowing the fewest total yards in the NFL under DC Jim Schwartz, the Browns struggled mightily in the red zone, allowing touchdowns on 71% of opponents’ visits. The additions of linebackers Jordan Hicks and Devin Bush are expected to help shore up this critical area.

On offense, all eyes are on Deshaun Watson. After two seasons marred by suspension and injuries, the Browns are hoping Watson can recapture the form he showed in Houston. With weapons like Amari Cooper, David Njoku, and newly acquired Jerry Jeudy, Watson has the tools to succeed, but questions remain about his ability to perform at a high level, especially given the Browns’ third-toughest schedule in the league.

Nick Chubb’s health is another major storyline. While Chubb has been a top-10 running back annually, his availability for Week 1 is uncertain after undergoing two knee surgeries. If Chubb can return to form, he has the potential to win Comeback Player of the Year, especially with an offense built around a strong ground game. The Browns have depth in the backfield, but a healthy Chubb is essential for reaching their offensive ceiling.

The Browns face a tough 2024 schedule with the the NFC East and the AFC West as their bulk non-divisional opponents. We feel confident in betting the Under 8.5 games won at +115.

Baltimore Ravens 2024 Preview:

The Baltimore Ravens are entering 2024 with high expectations, but the biggest question remains whether Lamar Jackson can finally elevate his postseason performance. Despite his regular-season success, Jackson has struggled in the playoffs, and for the Ravens to advance, they’ll need him to overcome these hurdles. With the departure of key offensive linemen, the spotlight will also be on the new starters tasked with protecting Jackson and anchoring the run game.

Offensively, the Ravens have added star RB Derrick Henry to a backfield that desperately needed stability. Henry’s presence, along with a healthy Mark Andrews and a developing Zay Flowers, gives Jackson the tools he needs to lead a balanced attack. However, the offensive line must step up after losing three starters. How quickly the new linemen gel will be crucial to maintaining the high-powered offense that ranked 4th in points per drive last season.

The Ravens’ defense, under new coordinator Zach Orr, will also face challenges after losing several key players and coaches. Still, the team’s overall talent and coaching experience, led by John Harbaugh, provide a solid foundation for another strong season. The Ravens’ ability to adapt to these changes will determine whether they can return to the AFC Championship.

When it comes to their 2024 schedule, the Ravens should post a winning record each month. As one of the better teams in the league, this should be reflected in the win-loss column throughout the season. With Vegas setting the over/under at 10.5 wins, we’re confident in taking the over 10.5 wins for the Ravens this season and The Ravens To Win the AFC North at +145.

Pittsburg Steelers 2024 Preview:

The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering the 2024 season with significant changes, especially at quarterback. After moving on from Kenny Pickett, they brought in Russell Wilson, who is in a make-or-break year. Wilson showed promise during the offseason, but the biggest question remains whether he can return to form and lead the Steelers' offense effectively. With a new offensive coordinator in Arthur Smith, who’s known for his success with play-action and RPO schemes, there's cautious optimism that Wilson can find his rhythm.

One of the key areas to watch is the wide receiver position. George Pickens has the potential to be a top target, with comparisons to a blend of D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, if he can capitalize on Wilson’s deep ball. Beyond Pickens, there are questions about who will step up as the No. 2 receiver, with options like rookie Roman Wilson, Van Jefferson, and Calvin Austin III vying for that role.

Tight end Pat Freiermuth is a sleeper to watch, as he’s emerged as Wilson’s favorite offseason target in Smith’s TE-friendly system. Meanwhile, the running back room, led by Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, remains solid, but Harris is in a contract year with something to prove. The offensive line will need to improve its play to support this retooled offense.

Looking at the 2024 schedule, the Steelers face the NFL’s toughest slate, making ten wins a challenging target. However, if Wilson can return to form and the offense clicks under Smith, the Steelers have the potential to outperform expectations. With Vegas setting the over/under at 8.5 wins, we are confident in take the Under 8.5 wins

As we wrap up our deep dive into the AFC North, it’s clear that this division is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the league. From the Bengals’ quest to protect Joe Burrow, to the Ravens’ push for postseason success, the Browns’ pursuit of consistency, and the Steelers’ major overhaul, every team has its unique challenges and opportunities. With all this insight, we’re primed for a successful season.

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