AFC North Preview and Predictions
By Mel Payne
November 18, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel (7) is sacked by Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Geno Atkins (97) in the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. The Bengals won 28-6. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-US PRESSWIRE
Bengals vs Raiders
Carson Palmer has been a turnover machine and the Raider defense has had trouble in pass protection. Oakland has also lost their last three matchups and is looking to get a win to raise morale when they come into Cincinnati Sunday afternoon. The Bengals have been playing great, though, and are trying to stay in the playoff hunt. I think Carson Palmer will have a decent game against his old team, but turnovers will be the deciding factor for the Raiders once again. Dalton and the receivers will strong arm the scoreboard.
Final Score: Bengals 34, Raiders 24
Steelers at Browns
Roethlisberger is still out with a fractured rib and now he is joined by his back up Byron Leftwich. The hometown hero, Charlie Batch, will get the start for the Steelers in their divisional matchup against the Browns. Though Batch always plays well for the team, the Browns are hungry and have been playing great teams really tight. I look for the Browns to stifle the third string quarterback and finally steal the win in this one.
Final Score: Browns 17, Steelers 14
Ravens at Chargers
The Ravens and Chargers are always a good matchup to watch and should be again on Sunday. Baltimore has had the hot hand recently and will be looking to continue the streak in San Diego. However, the Chargers may have something to say about that. The team is 4-6 and in desperate need of a win. They will put it all on the line against the Ravens. I think it will be a very close game, but Baltimore will eventually prevail, finally getting revenge for last year’s tromping that they took at the hands of San Diego.
Final Score: Ravens 13, Chargers 10