Sunday, August 24 2008 -- When you consider the movement in this division, it becomes clear very quickly that there's been a shift in power. The AFC North looks to be up for grabs. But the fact is that it's the Cleveland Browns' to lose. The Cincinnati Bengals look good too. It's tough to count the Pittsburgh Steelers out, while the Baltimore Ravens offer some fine talent.

Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns are tough on both sides of the ball. The offense is primed to put points on the board and the defense is balanced. Excellent draft picks and top trades during the last three years have put this team in the position to win.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals offer top receivers and a strong-armed quarterback. QB Carson Palmer is a clutch performer and first-rate leader. The defense is weak. The Cincinnati owners look like they believe in coach Marvin Lewis who for five years has ably guided this team.

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers under rookie coach Mike Tomlin won the division last season. But uncertainty regarding ownership, an extra tough schedule and a questionable O-line make this club vulnerable. QB Ben Roethlisberger, who is a tough leader, may have his health undermined by the frontline. First-place is possible but not probable.

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens turn to five-year backup QB Kyle Boller to take over after vet Steve McNair's retirement. Former University of Delaware star, rookie QB Joe Flacco, may be a starter-in-waiting. The Baltimore defense is excellent and Jamal Lewis is a premium linebacker.

=== Final Analysis ==

This is a very tough division to call. The clubs are fairly evenly matched and with Cleveland on the rise and Cincinnati holding some solid offensive power, Pittsburgh may very well find itself in third-place when all is said and done. Baltimore, with its honed defense, is also dangerous.

2008 Finish and Record

1) Cleveland Browns (12-4)
2) Cincinnati Bengals (10-6)
3) Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)
4) Baltimore Ravens (7-9)