Ben Roethlisberger is 59-19-1 against the AFC North in his career. That’s remarkable, however, it’s not surprising.
Who’s the best AFC North QB that he’s had to face in his career?
Carson Palmer in his prime for a handful of seasons? Andy Dalton when he was surrounded by one of the best rosters in the NFL? Joe Flacco?
The Steelers are a great organization. Thoroughly superior to Cleveland and Cincinnati, no doubt. I think the greatest advantage, obviously, has been at QB.
59-19-1 against the AFC North. I expect the Steelers to have that advantage over the Browns this year. Baker Mayfield was horrible last season. Look at the stats.
Joe Burrow may be good, and I think he will be, but he’s still going to be a rookie this year. Advantage Pittsburgh.
I haven't mentioned Baltimore, and that's because, for the first time in franchise history, the Ravens have a better quarterback than the Steelers.
Even if Ben comes back and is at his absolute best, he’s never had a year as good as LaMar Jackson did last year. Jackson won the MVP. He threw 36 TD’s. Ben has never thrown that many touchdowns. Ben has never been the NFL's MVP.
Ben’s highest career quarterback rating is 104.1. Jackson’s was 113 last year. Roethlisberger is going to the hall of fame, but have you ever said that he’s THE best QB in football? No.
The Steelers no longer have their biggest advantage.
I think the rest of the Steelers roster is really good. Much better than many are giving it credit for. The defense is absolutely freaking stacked. I don't think the Steelers are going to win the AFC North, but it's not totally out of the realm of possibility.
The reality though is that Baltimore has the advantage at QB, and that gives them a leg up.