Early NFL Over/Under win total predictions for the 2021 season

Early NFL Over/Under Win Total Predictions: AFC North

Baltimore Ravens, 11.0 wins: Over

There is a chance that, after Lamar Jackson followed up his MVP season with one not quite on par, people could allow themselves to doubt the Baltimore Ravens, especially with this line at 11.0 wins and with a defense that might see a slight downturn.

Give me the other side of it, though. Jackson has never been short on motivation and now has the most complete receiving room to work with thus far in his career after the additions of Rashod Bateman and Sammy Watkins. This offense could be lethal and the Ravens will be in contention to win the AFC North yet again.

Cincinnati Bengals, 6.5 wins: Under

Joe Burrow is clearly on track to return from his torn ACL that ended his rookie season and now he’ll have one of his favorite weapons from LSU, Ja’Marr Chase, working alongside him. That should be exciting and the Bengals will put up plenty of fireworks as well. However, my issue with this team is that the offensive line concerns remain as prevalent as ever before and the defense is only marginally improved by the likes of Trey Hendrickson. In this tough division, they’ll be left behind in the end.

Cleveland Browns, 10.5 wins: Over

Show me the reason why I should doubt the Cleveland Browns. And if you point to Baker Mayfield, then let me go ahead and save you the trouble because I’m not buying what you’re selling.

This has become one of the most complete rosters in the NFL over the past couple of years and, with Odell Beckham Jr. set to enter the fray with a full offseason under Kevin Stefanski to work, strides forward should be made. Throw in an improved defense, specifically with Greg Newsome, John Johnson III and Troy Hill joining the secondary, and this is a legitimate Super Bowl contender.

Pittsburgh Steelers, 8.5 wins: Under

Throw tomatoes at me, scream obscenities directed at me, do whatever you want. The Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t going to be close to the NFL Playoffs this year. In fact, they could be in line for a high pick in next year’s draft.

The defense is still going to be extremely good, make no mistake. But defensive football can only take a team but so far and there should be a distinct lack of faith in this offense. Najee Harris can’t block for himself and some talented wide receivers can’t fix Ben Roethlisberger’s aged/still-aging arm. In the AFC North, they no longer have the juice to hang with the contenders.