The AFC North standings may show the Pittsburgh Steelers in first, but according to the oddsmakers, the Baltimore Ravens are still the team to beat.
Videos by FanBuzz
Pittsburgh pulled ahead after a Monday night win over the New York Giants, thanks to Baltimore's loss to the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, giving the Steelers a one-game lead at 6-2. But despite trailing at 5-3, the Ravens are viewed as favorites to win the division, with sportsbook odds ranging from -165 to -190. The Steelers are close behind with odds from +180 to +210, while the Bengals and Browns lag far behind at +1000 and +1500.
What's driving the line? The answer is simple: depth and schedule. Baltimore is widely regarded as the more balanced team, and they've already cleared a few tough matchups, including the Washington Commanders and Kansas City Chiefs — two opponents still looming on Pittsburgh's schedule.
Basically, it's a tighter path to the NFL playoffs for the Steelers, who will have to grind through a tougher lineup to keep their top spot.
But don't overlook the two head-to-head games still left between these rivals — Week 11 in Pittsburgh and Week 16 in Baltimore. These are games that could make or break the season for both teams and likely shape the AFC North race. With the Ravens favored on paper but the Steelers holding a game advantage, this is a division battle that's far from over.
As you likely know, in the AFC North, it's always a dogfight down to the wire, and this season is no different. The Ravens may be favored, but the Steelers won't be easy to unseat.
- More NFL | All coverage from FanBuzz
