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!

Jake Browning Exceeding Expectations

When Joe Burrow went down with a season-ending injury, many people, including myself, expected the Bengals to be out of playoff contention relatively quickly. However, Cincinnati has now pulled off two straight wins, and it is not their defense that is leading the way. Jake Browning has been incredibly efficient as a passer since becoming the starter, and it has allowed the Bengals to remain balanced on offense. A heavy amount of play action passing has been the key to Cincy’s success, as the two-headed monster of Joe Mixon and Chase Brown has given teams a serious rushing threat to worry about. With matchups against the Vikings and Steelers ahead, the Bengals are in great position to make a playoff push.

Flacco Shines in Browns’ Upset Victory

Who would have thought we would be talking about Joe Flacco in this light in 2023? Perhaps the Jets are regretting they did not have him as the primary backup to Aaron Rodgers, because he is playing impressive football for a 38-year old who was picked up out of desperation. This past Sunday against the Jaguars, Flacco completed 26 of 45 passes for 311 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception in the Browns’ 31-27 victory. Trevor Lawrence’s 3 interceptions gave the Browns plenty of opportunities to put points on the board, but execution has been a major issue for Cleveland this season, no matter who is under center. However, the Browns were able to overcome their struggles to run the ball with savvy quarterback play who still has some good football left in him. We will see how long this success is sustainable, but with the current Browns defense, Flacco does not have to be elite. He just needs to keep the offense moving in the right direction on the field.

Frustration Builds for Steelers

The Steelers dropped another game against an inferior opponent this weekend, losing to the Patriots 21-18. While no major changes appear to be on the horizon, the national media has finally begun to question how comfortable Mike Tomlin’s seat truly is. While I do not believe he is in any danger of actually losing his job, it is telling that media personalities, who, for the most part, love Tomlin, are actually questioning how long he will remain the coach in Pittsburgh. Tomlin did admit this week that George Pickens’ attitude is a problem, which is something to monitor as we approach the offseason. The same could easily be said for Diontae Johnson, who has shown a serious lack of effort in recent weeks. Nonetheless, the Steelers are still in playoff contention, and winning covers all problems. A win against the Colts this Saturday would do wonders for the problems that have risen to the surface.

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