Steelers fall back in AFC North standings entering Week 8

The AFC North caused for some separation between the contending teams and the others that will struggle the rest of the way. 

Another week around the NFL wrapped up its seventh iteration of its demanding schedule. The Steelers saw their short success get cut off again as they were not able to stack wins on top of each other. The rest of the AFC North division created some movement since last week as they get ready for the eighth time around their respective campaigns.

Last week saw both Pittsburgh and the Browns take a step back while the other two clubs stepped in front. The ladder looks primed to be playoff teams and they should be able to continue that separation going forward. The Steelers and Cleveland seem to be going in the opposite direction, which is bad news for their fans.

The Steelers were unable to overcome the turnover battle

Their matchup against the Miami Dolphins seemed to go to plan for the most part. They were able to minimize Miami’s damage with their admirable defensive effort and get a chance to win the game. The Steelers were not able to capitalize on their opportunities and that relayed to a poor result that failed them when the clock struck zero.

Pittsburgh Steelers (2-5) vs Philadelphia Eagles (6-0), Sunday at 1 P.M. EST

Back on the road again for the black and gold as they get ready to take on the Eagles this Sunday. Philadelphia is the last undefeated team remaining in the league and they are coming off a bye week full of rest and extra preparation. Things seem hopeless for Pittsburgh as they head into this game as severe underdogs.

Cleveland lost a tough divisional game against the Ravens

End scores do not always tell the full story of a game, but the game between the Browns and Ravens did. Cleveland was able to stay in the contest by a strong defensive effort and capitalizing in certain situations. Baltimore is the stronger team in almost every aspect and that is why they were able to win.

Cincinnati Bengals (4-3) vs Cleveland Browns (2-5), Monday at 8:15 P.M. EST

Cleveland returns home, but they will be struggling again as they get ready for another divisional game. They take on the Bengals for the first time this season after a tough loss against the Ravens just last week. It is going to be tough for the Browns to rebound against a high-powered offense that is finally clicking.

The Bengals are starting to put things together at the right time

Things are turning around for the Bengals after their terrible start to the year. Their game against the Atlanta Falcons last week allowed their offense to continue their correction course. Cincinnati looks like they will be able to make a run down the stretch to not only contend for the division but also get a chance at the Super Bowl again.

Cincinnati Bengals (4-3) vs Cleveland Browns (2-5), Monday at 8:15 P.M. EST

The extra 24 hours of rest and preparation will be beneficial for Cincinnati as they continue to figure everything out. Their offense is starting to fire on all cylinders, but their defense still has not played consistently enough. This game against a battered Browns team should give them another opportunity to keep the ship on the right path.

Baltimore has a short week to prepare after a tough win at home

A huge win happened last week for the Ravens as they won another big divisional contest. They lead the way in the AFC North and should now be considered favorites for the time being. The Bengals will give them a run for their money down the stretch, but the coaching advantage that Baltimore carries over Cincinnati should give them the crown.

Baltimore Ravens (4-3) vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-4), Thursday at 8:15 P.M. EST

It will be a short week for the Ravens as they get ready to take on the Buccaneers under the lights on Thursday. After a tough week of competition against a rival team less than a week ago, this will be a tough matchup for Baltimore. Tampa Bay is going through the wringer currently and that should give the Ravens an edge in this game.

The Steelers have a tough road ahead of them and that continues this week against the last undefeated team in the NFL. The rest of the division will have challenges of their own as they get ready for their own opponents in week 8.