Ravens Expected To Win AFC North With Lamar Jackson, Enhanced Defense

The Baltimore Ravens are emerging as the favorites to win the AFC North, buoyed by the return of MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson and a favorable remaining schedule against teams with losing records. Their running back, Keaton Mitchell, has shown promising speed and agility, which could invigorate the Ravens' struggling ground game, currently ranked near the bottom in success rate. The Ravens' combination of offensive weapons, including Derrick Henry, Mark Andrews, Zay Flowers, and DeAndre Hopkins, alongside a strong pass-rushing defense, positions them well for a division comeback. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers have shown inconsistency despite holding a two-game lead earlier in the season, and oddsmakers favor Baltimore to capitalize on the division's weakening competition. Analysts highlight the Ravens' easier strength of schedule through weeks 9-13 as a critical factor in their potential to overtake the division. Overall, Baltimore's momentum, strategic roster utilization, and key player returns make them the likely AFC North champions as the season progresses.