AFC north.(NFL)

BALTIMORE RAVENS

If he continues to play well, QB Anthony Wright likely will remain the starter when Kyle Boller (toe) returns, probably in two weeks. Both quarterbacks have problems going through progressions and turn the ball over. Wright has a stronger arm; Boiler has better command of the offense. ... Backup RB Chester Taylor has outperformed starter Jamal Lewis. Taylor makes quicker decisions and explodes through holes; Lewis stutter-steps. ... TE Todd Heap, who started slowly after offseason ankle surgery, is becoming more of a factor, especially as a target on underneath pass routes. DEFENSIVE SYSTEM CHECK: The Ravens have done a nice job disguising blitzes and bringing pressure from the outside. RE Terrell Suggs has been the best pass rusher; OLBs Peter Boulware and Adalius Thomas also have come off the edge. MLB Ray Lewis sometimes moves outside, where he's a mismatch for smaller running backs. The Ravens also have brought SS Ed Reed and CB Deion Sanders off the edge. The Ravens can use power, speed or finesse or a combination to get pressure oft the edge. They have to come from the outside because they don't get any pressure up the middle.--Mike Preston

CINCINNATI BENGALS

RG Bobble Williams' strength is run blocking because of his size (6-4, 330). But he has improved his pass protection in his second year with the team. Williams is more comfortable working with C Rich Braham and RT Willie Anderson on combination blocks. If Williams continues to clean up his technique, he will be a complete player. ... RB Rudi Johnson is even more effective now that he has help from backup Chris Perry. Though Johnson wears out defenses with his sledgehammer style, Perry quickly gets the ball to the perimeter of the defense. He also gives another layer to the passing game with his receiving skills. ... MLB Odell Thurman has difficulty anchoring when guards and centers lock onto him. But his quickness and speed allow him to skirt blockers. DEFENSIVE SYSTEM CHECK: The line does a good job of disrupting the offense's rhythm by keeping quarterbacks in the pocket and forcing quick throws. The run defense, however, has had some issues. The front seven is flowing to the ball, but the backside pursuit on cutback runs needs improvement.--Chick Ludwig

CLEVELAND BROWNS