Each week during the NFL season, I will be running through the top storylines from within the AFC North and giving my brief opinion on each matter that is discussed. Once the season gets into full swing, we oftentimes overlook many prevalent stories around the league, as we narrow our focus solely on our beloved Steelers. Hopefully this weekly piece will provide insight on the important topics in the AFC North and educate each reader on what to expect for each AFC North team moving forward.

With much to discuss and minimal time to discuss it, let’s dive right in!

Bengals pull off nail-biter vs. Jaguars

Trevor Lawrence getting injured was not the only bad thing that happened to the Jags on Monday Night Football. A game easily within reach slipped away from their grasp, as Jake Browning led the injury-ridden Bengals to a 34-31 overtime win. One of the underlying storylines that could be a major factor moving forward is the impact made by rookie running back Chase Brown. Brown has been injured for a majority of the season, but he is a player I was incredibly high on coming out of Illinois. He is a complete runner who can do just about anything, as he has the speed, power, vision, awareness, pass-blocking skills, and soft hands needed to be a three-down back in the NFL. Brown carried the ball 9 times for 61 yards, including a key 31-yard scamper. He could be a major part of the Bengals offense down the stretch.

Browns defense lets down in blowout loss

Joe Flacco’s return to the AFC North was not a pretty one, as the Browns stalled on offense after a quick start, losing 36-19 to the Rams. The Browns defense was uncharacteristically bad Sunday, giving up big plays through the air and failing to apply any sort of consistent pressure on Matthew Stafford. Myles Garrett did not even record a tackle Sunday, as the Rams completely eliminated his impact. Rookie standout Kobie Turner added another 1.5 sacks to his total on the season, applying consistent pressure from the interior and making life difficult for Flacco. The Browns will now face the Jaguars, who could very well be without starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

Pickett injured in disappointing Steelers loss to Cards

The Steelers seem to have a game or two every season where they simply play down to the level of inferior opponents. This past week was a prime example, losing to the Arizona Cardinals 24-10. One week after finally breaking 400 yards on offense, almost nothing went well. The biggest downside from the game, however, was the ankle injury to Kenny Pickett, which could keep him out until the end of the month. This injury is detrimental to Pickett’s future with the team, as the decision to part ways with Matt Canada mid-season was likely due in part to get an evaluation on Pickett outside the influence of Canada. This injury is not his first, as he already suffered a rib injury earlier this season. He also dealt with two concussions his rookie season. Putting all these injuries together, durability has to be put into the equation as well. Whether or not he has the ability to be the future of the franchise is a totally separate discussion at this point.

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