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!

Ravens bully Jags, set to claim AFC North crown

The Ravens are just one win and a little help away from locking up the AFC North division title, as they took care of business against Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars, coming away with a 23-7 victory on Sunday night. The defense forced Lawrence into making several poor decisions, and Isaiah Likely stepped up big once again, providing a spark for the offense across the middle of the field. This week’s matchup against San Francisco will be one of the biggest challenges for Baltimore all season, but a win could potentially give them the AFC North title this week. Here is how they can do it, per NFL Communications.

1. BAL win + CLE loss or tie OR
2. BAL tie + CLE loss

Flacco flipping Browns season around

The Browns have been a difficult team to predict from week to week this season, but Joe Flacco has kept the Browns afloat, leading them to a narrow win against the Bears in Week 15. Flacco did throw three interceptions in the game, but he led them down and put them in scoring position when it mattered most. He has been incredibly clutch, and he may have very well done enough to put the Browns in the playoffs. According to NFL Communications, there are eight unlikely, but possible, scenarios for the Browns to clinch a playoff spot in Week 16:

1. CLE win + CIN loss + DEN loss or tie + BUF loss + MIA win or tie + IND loss or tie OR
2. CLE win + PIT loss or tie + BUF loss + MIA win or tie + DEN loss or tie OR
3. CLE win + PIT loss or tie + BUF loss + MIA win or tie + JAX loss + IND win OR
4. CLE win + PIT loss or tie + DEN loss or tie + JAX loss + IND win OR
5. CLE win + PIT loss or tie + BUF loss + KC win + IND win + JAX loss OR
6. CLE win + PIT loss or tie + DEN loss or tie + MIA win or tie + IND loss OR
7. CLE win + PIT loss or tie + DEN loss or tie + MIA win or tie + JAX loss OR
8. CLE win + CIN-PIT tie + BUF loss + IND win + JAX loss

Rudolph to lead struggling Steelers into pre-Christmas matchup

It seems to be fitting for Rudolph to lead the way in the game right before Christmas, but practically speaking, it is not what Steelers fans were hoping for. Kenny Pickett is out once again this week, and the offense has still not found its footing. Coming off three straight losses, every remaining game is a must-win situation for the Steelers, but things do not look too optimistic. Injuries have depleted the Steelers safeties and linebackers, and the offensive skill players are displaying consistent frustration. A win would help quiet the noise and keep the Steelers in the playoff hunt, but unless Mason Rudolph can morph into a flying reindeer overnight, the Steelers will need a miracle to turn things around.

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