Can the Ravens Still Win the AFC North?

Can the Ravens Still Win the AFC North?

Steelers Struggling

The Pittsburgh Steelers started the year hot at 4-1, but their recent performances have raised serious concerns. The last two weeks exposed the flaws of what was once considered one of the best defenses in football. They allowed 33 points to Joe Flacco and then 35 more to the Green Bay Packers. Suddenly, the unit that was supposed to carry them looks totally lost.

The Steelers currently have the highest-paid defense in football at $160 million, yet they are giving up big plays every week and not creating turnovers. For a defense that features T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Alex Highsmith, Patrick Queen, and Jalen Ramsey, they shouldn’t be struggling this much. It looks like there’s a lack of communication between the players.  Players not knowing where to be. That was especially clear in the Packers game, where tight end Tucker Kraft torched them, and receivers were left wide open all night. The defensive schemes have sparked questions about the coaching staff, especially Mike Tomlin, who has not won a playoff game in eight years. The coaching staff is running out of excuses and needs answers fast.

The Steelers’ Remaining Schedule

The upcoming schedule does not do the Steelers any favors. They still have to play the Colts, Chargers, Bengals, Bears, Bills, Ravens, Dolphins, Lions, Browns, and Ravens again. With that lineup, Pittsburgh will need major improvements to avoid falling below .500.

If the defense continues to give up 30-plus points a week, they will be lucky to win three or four more games. The next two matchups against Justin Herbert and the red-hot Colts could be crucial. If things don’t turn around fast, Pittsburgh could find itself on the outside looking in when playoff time comes around.

Ravens Have a Path

Meanwhile, the Ravens’ remaining schedule looks much more favorable. Baltimore will face the Dolphins, Vikings, Browns, Jets, Bengals, Steelers, Bengals again, Patriots, Packers, and Steelers one more time. Compared to Pittsburgh’s gauntlet, this slate gives Baltimore real hope.

If Lamar Jackson stays healthy and the defense gets back to form, there is still a realistic path to the AFC North crown. The defense has shown flashes, and the running game is starting to find rhythm.

What Needs to Go Right for Both Teams

For the Ravens to pull it off, everything still has to go right. Winning the division will require consistent play and better health. Lamar Jackson must stay on the field, and the defense has to maintain momentum.

As for the Steelers, they need answers fast. Whether it means firing the coach, making a move before the trade deadline, or changing defensive schemes, something has to give. If not, the Ravens might just rise from their early struggles and take back control of the AFC North.

FanDuel Odds Show Ravens Still Favored to Win the AFC North

According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the latest odds back up the optimism in Baltimore. Can the Ravens still win the AFC North? The odds say yes. FanDuel lists the Ravens at -125 to win the division and the Steelers at +180 as underdogs. Those numbers reflect confidence in a healthy Lamar Jackson, an easier closing schedule, and Pittsburgh’s defensive slide.