Since 2005, a member of the AFC North has represented the division in the Super Bowl four times, winning three titles during that span. For years, the division was perceived as one of the toughest, most hard-nosed ones in football, and entering this season, that element of grit still dominates.

While the Cincinnati Bengals will attempt to repeat as AFC North champions in 2014, both Baltimore and Pittsburgh will be focused on avoiding back-to-back .500 seasons (Pittsburgh looking to avoid its third straight), and Cleveland will attempt to become relevant in a division in which they have struggled to compete.

Here's a preview of the AFC North in reverse order based on our while the rest of the Browns receiving corps appears dodgy at best.

Last season, the Browns ranked 22nd according to our Adjusted Defense Net Expected Points (NEP) metric. They selected The Browns have talked about featuring a run-heavy approach offensively, which could keep them in games if the defense holds up. But like it or not, this team will be mired in controversy and media attention no matter what they do. It's almost certain that Manziel will start at quarterback at some point, and how he handles the pressure will go a long way in determining the fate of the Browns this season.

3. Baltimore Ravens

nERD: -2.05
Chance of Winning Division: 14.2%
Offensive Rank: 27th
Defensive Rank: 12th

In 2013, the Ravens lost four games by a field goal or less, making their 8-8 record a bit misleading. The team was unable to run the football, and as a result, they ranked dead last in terms of Adjusted Rushing NEP. While the offense was nauseating for the majority of the season, the defense ranked ninth in terms of overall defensive efficiency. If the Ravens can improve on offense, they have the makings of a competitive squad.

Despite having the fifth-most pass attempts last season, and is joined by newly-signed LeGarrette Blount in the backfield. he could step in as the main red zone option for this team.

In an effort to inject youth into the defense, the Steelers drafted but with new line coach Mike Munchak in town, there’s reason for optimism. Keeping Ben upright could push the Steelers into contention for the AFC North title.

1. Cincinnati Bengals

nERD: 4.57
Chance of Winning Division: 47.0%
Offensive Rank: 14th
Defensive Rank: 3rd

The Bengals have the eighth-best nERD ranking heading into 2014, and are projected to win 9.2 games according to our metrics. Featuring a defensive group that finished second last season in terms of Adjusted Defensive NEP, the Bengals are the most complete team in the AFC North.

New offensive coordinator Hue Jackson has made his intentions about becoming more balanced very clear this off-season, which could benefit Dalton’s efficiency.

a historic resume now entering his fourth season. First-round draft pick Darqueze Dennard has been getting rave reviews so far this pre-season from head coach Marvin Lewis, too.

If Dalton can protect the ball in 2014 (20 interceptions a year ago), the Bengals have a great shot at making the playoffs, and advancing beyond the wild-card round for the first time in 23 years. The interior lines on both sides of the ball are among the best in the NFL. According to our metrics, the Bengals are almost 2-to-1 favorites to win the division, and with the talent they have across their roster, it’s easy to see why.