NFL predictions: Which teams will top NFC and AFC?

January 16, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws a pass against Arizona Cardinals during the first half in a NFC Divisional round playoff game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
January 16, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws a pass against Arizona Cardinals during the first half in a NFC Divisional round playoff game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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A look at the AFC North

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers talk on the field after their game at Heinz Field. Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers talk on the field after their game at Heinz Field. Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

AFC North

1.       Pittsburgh           12-4

2.       Cincinnati            12-4

3.       Baltimore            5-11

4.       Cleveland            3-13

The Steelers have all the tools to make a lot of noise in the AFC this year.  RB Le’Veon Bell will be back along with DeAngelo Williams and should make the running game strong.  Wide receiver is a strong position, NS though they will be short Martavis Bryant they still have Markus Wheaton, up-and coming Sammie Coates and, oh yeah, a guy named Antonio Brown.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton. Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports photograph
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton. Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports photograph /

The Bengals live and die by QB Andy Dalton.  When he is on, he is on – and Cincinnati is a powerhouse.  With tools like A.J. Green, Brandon LaFell, Tyler Eifert, and Jeremy Hill they should have a strong season. The Bengals’ tenacious defense should still be feisty but they need to manage it so they can get to their elusive AFC championship game visit.

Baltimore’s defense, like most years, should be strong this year.  Unfortunately, the offense will be trying to make plays with oft-moved RB Trent Richardson and WR Mike Wallace and the aging Joe Flacco.

Cleveland … well, it’s a good thing the Cavs and the Indians will overlap their season.  RG3 will take over for troubled QB Johnny Manziel.

Next: Who's got the edge in the AFC South?