Week 15 AFC North Preview and Predictions
By Mel Payne
Dec 9, 2012; Cincinnati, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Andrew Hawkins (16) scores a touchdown during the first half against the Dallas Cowboys at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
Cincinnati Bengals at Philadelphia Eagles
This game appears to be a very lopsided matchup in favor of the Bengals. Though Cincinnati lost to the Dallas Cowboys by one point last week, it can be argued that the Bengals actually beat themselves. The team outplayed the Cowboys, but suffered from penalties and key drops in critical situations. The defense got pressure on Tony Romo throughout the game and limited the Cowboys to just 49 yards rushing.
Philadelphia won last week for the first time since September 30th. They are starting a rookie quarterback that has the ability to put up big yards. However, they have struggled on the ground with a rookie running back. Bryce Brown has been turnover prone and won’t stand a chance against a gritty Bengals defense.
Final Score: Bengals 27, Eagles 17
Washington Redskins at Cleveland Browns
The Redskins will be playing for their playoff lives on Sunday in Cleveland. The team is still one game behind the New York Giants and on the outside looking in. However, it still hasn’t been determined whether their superstar rookie RGIII will be suiting up after suffering a knee injury last week. If he doesn’t, the game will take on a whole new look with fellow rookie Kirk Cousins under center. Last week Cousins stepped in and got the win for the ‘Skins in overtime.
Cleveland is going to have something to say about this game no matter who starts at quarterback for Washington. The Browns are suddenly red-hot and have won their last three games. Their defense has been tough on opposing offenses and Brandon Weeden has been pulling the offense together week after week.
Final Score: Redskins 16, Browns 13
Denver Broncos at Baltimore Ravens
The Broncos are on fire and this is going to be a tough one for the Ravens to put out, even on their home turf. Peyton Manning is in playoff mode and looking to make a statement in every game. Offensively, Denver is practically unstoppable and their defense isn’t too shabby either. They have won their past eight games and will be looking for their ninth in Maryland.
On the other hand, the Ravens have been struggling on offense and their defense has been plagued by injuries to key players. After their second loss in a row last week, they even replaced their offensive coordinator. All of this turmoil in the midst of a playoff run may prove too much for Baltimore.
Final Score: Broncos 24, Ravens 10
Pittsburgh Steelers at Dallas Cowboys
This game is going to be a good one in Dallas. The Steelers have dealt with injuries over the past few games and have struggled on the field. With the return of Ben Roethlisberger last week, the Steelers thought they would save their season. Instead, they struggled with turnovers and could not get anything done on offense. After the loss last week, Pittsburgh still finds themselves in a must win situation heading to Dallas to keep up with Cincinnati in the playoff hunt.
Dallas is also fighting for a playoff spot and has won four of their last five games. They are also going to be playing with the most dangerous weapon of all on the football field; their hearts. The team has not been home since they tragically lost one of their own to an automobile accident. They will want to get the win for their fans, Jerry Brown, and their playoff hopes on Sunday.
Final Score: Cowboys 24, Steelers 21