AFC North: 2009 No-Huddle Preview

With Carson Palmer at quarterback, a rejuvenated Chad Ochocinco, an improved defense, and Chris Henry staying out of trouble, the Cincinnati Bengals hope to make a run at the top spot in the AFC North.

The Bengals have not hidden the fact they are going to incorporate the running game much more frequently than in previous years. However, the fate of this team rides on the shoulders of its starting quarterback.

If Carson Palmer can stay healthy, the Bengals have a chance to make a lot of noise in the AFC. If he goes down early, Cincinnati fans could be in for another long season.

How do the Bengals match up with the rest of the AFC North? Let's take a look...

The Baltimore Ravens were one of three teams that finished the preseason undefeated. The Ravens have always been known for their defense, but with Rex Ryan now the head coach of the Jets, they will be forced to make adjustments.

Linebacker Terrell Suggs has missed some time with a heel injury, but appears to be ready for the regular season.

With Reggie Kelly out for the season, the Bengals will need some personnel to step up and protect Palmer. If the Ravens continue their blitzing ways, Palmer could go over the top and pick them apart...if he has enough time.

Cleveland Browns head coach Eric Mangini is not revealing who his starting quarterback will be to begin the season. Personally, I don't think it matters. Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson are not that much different as far as style goes, and neither is all that spectacular.

Browns' rookie tailback James Davis was the team's leading rusher in the preseason.  If the Bengals can shut him down, the Browns should not present much of a problem.

In Palmer's last seven games against the Browns, he has lost only once. He threw six touchdown passes in that game.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are the defending Super Bowl champions and are returning 19 of 22 starters. Their defense had quite the preseason, allowing a league-low 37 points.

A lot of attention is being paid to Stefan Logan and his kick-returning abilities, and rightfully so. He answered any questions about whether or not he belonged on Pittsburgh's roster with an 80-yard punt return for a touchdown against Carolina.

You cannot give the Steelers points on turnovers or kick returns. If you want to beat them, make their offense put points on the board.

I would like nothing more than to see Hines Ward get blasted coming over the middle before having to wipe away his tears with one of those terrible towels.