AFC North Power Rankings: Steelers claim top spot after besting Bengals in Week 13

The AFC North power dynamic underwent a significant shift following Week 13 of the 2024 NFL season. The Pittsburgh Steelers emerged as the division’s frontrunner after a thrilling 44-38 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. This win, combined with the Baltimore Ravens’ loss, solidified the Steelers’ position at the top of the division with a 9-3 record. They now hold a 1.5-game lead over the Ravens and maintain a strong tiebreaker advantage due to head-to-head victories [oai_citation:6,AFC North standings: What Steelers’ Week 13 win means for division lead | Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/news/afc-north-standings-steelers-week-13-win-means-division-lead/8f4836ceb86bec3283ce8206) [oai_citation:5,Pittsburgh Steelers tie NFL record after beating Bengals in Week 13 | Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/news/pittsburgh-steelers-tie-nfl-record-beating-bengals-week-13/ac9ced32d5153d56ca3a2c83).

The Steelers’ offensive firepower was on full display against the Bengals, and their defense made just enough plays to secure the win. Pittsburgh’s consistent ability to win close games has become a hallmark of their season, allowing them to capitalize on other AFC North teams’ struggles. Meanwhile, the Bengals have fallen to 4-8, effectively ending their postseason hopes after a challenging year marked by injuries and inconsistent play [oai_citation:4,AFC North standings: What Steelers’ Week 13 win means for division lead | Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/news/afc-north-standings-steelers-week-13-win-means-division-lead/8f4836ceb86bec3283ce8206) [oai_citation:3,Pittsburgh Steelers tie NFL record after beating Bengals in Week 13 | Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/news/pittsburgh-steelers-tie-nfl-record-beating-bengals-week-13/ac9ced32d5153d56ca3a2c83).

Elsewhere in the division, the Cleveland Browns remain in the mix but face challenges due to their own offensive inconsistencies and injury issues. The Ravens, who were considered favorites earlier in the season, now find themselves chasing the surging Steelers. The AFC North has lived up to its reputation as one of the NFL’s most competitive divisions, with every team showing flashes of potential but struggling to maintain consistent dominance [oai_citation:2,AFC North standings: What Steelers’ Week 13 win means for division lead | Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/news/afc-north-standings-steelers-week-13-win-means-division-lead/8f4836ceb86bec3283ce8206) [oai_citation:1,Pittsburgh Steelers tie NFL record after beating Bengals in Week 13 | Sporting News](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/news/pittsburgh-steelers-tie-nfl-record-beating-bengals-week-13/ac9ced32d5153d56ca3a2c83).

Let me know if you’d like a detailed breakdown of each team’s performance!