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Steel Nation Uprising: Season Predictions

Okay, let me keep this short and sweet.

Let me be the first to say that this season will be a game-changer for the Pittsburgh Steelers. With a revamped defense, and a potential Top 5 offense together, the 2015 Steelers shall be a force to be reckoned with.

Historically, teams with this type of build can normally do some things. The huge question mark for everyone, as it should be, is the defense. This younger core also has more potential than people think. Although I am a bit leary about Week 1, since the "Golden Boy" will be in strapped up and ready, this year's defense definitely appears to have the speed and tenacity that last year's lacked.

I have to be both fair and realistic as any other Steelers fan. High expectations can sometimes make you look like a fool come January (we all share the feeling!) In my honest opinion, I believe this Steelers team can make the playoffs. Everyone seems to be up in the air with who will win the AFC North. With great consideration for the dominance of this division, the predictions are as follows:

Early predictions:

*=playoff teams

AFC North-

Pittsburgh Steelers 12-4*
Baltimore Ravens 10-6*
Cincinnati Bengals 9-7
Cleveland Browns 7-9

Steelers Losses:

@Chargers
@Chiefs
@Seahawks
vs. Broncos

Since the Steelers appear to have the most balanced team in the division, I pick Pittsburgh to win the North. Of course, the divisional games will be tough outings. They also have the core to overcome the hardest strength of schedule in the NFL. Granted, it is VERY early, but the youth movement on defense was sorely needed. Although a young D is perceived as somewhat of a weakness, I believe it is an added strength that most fans will not realize until they officially hit the field.

When midseason approaches, the offense should be ranked around fourth, while the defense is ranked ninth or tenth.

Balance is the key. Hoping for another historic playoff run.

#intomlinwetrust
#stairwaytoseven

The opinions shared here are not those of the editorial staff of Behind the Steel Curtain or SB Nation. These posts are not approved in any way by the editorial staff of this web site.