AFC North Defenses: 2015

[Mike M (the other one)]

I list the Defenses like this:
Ravens
Bengals
Steeler
Browns

and 3 possibly 4 will finish in the top 15.

Ravens. A little weak in the secondary (no depth), but they are good up front vs the run and opposing QB's have to get rid of it fast or else Elvis/Suggs will find a way to get to you.

Bengals. Good all around, if Geno returns to form and MJ plays like we know he can, then we very well could end up with a top 5 defense by the end of the year. Biggest Weakness is LB. Front 4 and Secondary are top notch and will have to carry the LB's until we can get Burfict back and if Dawson turns out to be better than advertised, then this defense could get scary good fast. If they can get consistent pressure on the QB, then they could very well lead the league in Interceptions, you don't want to make mistakes against this secondary.

Steelers. stout, but their Backfield can be abused. Gay and Cortez don't really instill fear in anyone. Dupree was a good pick up, and Shazier needs to step up his game this year. Scheme makes them better than most, and they should end up better than middle of the pack.

Browns. The enigma. Shelton was a much needed plug 'n play player that should help improve their run defense. LB's are solid, but lacking depth. DB's are looking good, if Gilbert doesn't step up and play, then he could be passed by Williams or Charles Gaines on the depth chart. This defense should be better than middle of the pack, but they will be on the field too much and get worn down and become susceptible to giving up big plays late in the game.