Top 6 Matchups to Watch in 2022

The AFC North is full of interesting and intriguing matchups. That may be whether it's teams matchups, or simply specific head-to-head. Below are the top head-to-head matchups to watch this upcoming season!

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Marlon Humphrey vs Ja’Marr Chase

We all know the result of Ja’Marr vs Humphrey last season. It was a disaster for Marlon and that Baltimore defense. However, what some fail to realize is Marlon had a down year due to injuries and major lack of help behind him. This year, with an improved Baltimore secondary, and a hopeful healthy Marlon Humphrey, I anticipate a much more exciting matchup between the two stars.

Lamar Jackson vs Deshaun Watson

Two electric dual-threat QBs going head-to-head for the first time in the AFC North. Although it will only be Watson’s third game coming back off the suspension, it’ll be interesting to see how long it will take Deshaun Watson get back to his old form. As for Lamar Jackson, Baltimore fans will be hopeful that he’s in his 2019 MVP form by then.

TJ Watt vs La’el Collins

Nothing will be easy going against the reigning DPOY, but that’s what makes it interesting. Although Watt nearly broke the NFL sack record, Watt only recorded 1 assisted tackle and 0 sacks in the game he played during last years series. The Bengals line was able to keep him in check. Now that the Bengals offensive line is revamped, can a healthy La'el Collins do the same?

Ja’Marr Chase vs Denzel Ward

Ja’Marr Chase on this list twice? Shouldn’t really be a surprise… He tore defensive backs up all season. But when he came across Ward, and Newsome if you want to add, Ja’Marr was “shut down” compared to his other games. In those two games, Ja’Marr was targeted 17 times for 8 receptions and only 75 yards. Ja’marr Chase called out Cleveland and their DB’s a few weeks ago on ‘The Pivot Podcast’ and only added fuel to the rivalry. The 2021 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year stated, “Not just because Cleveland talks the most s--t. But just because Denzel Ward did his thing. Same for Greg Newsome -- I don't think he's elite -- but they definitely just all talk crazy. It ain't somebody we're circling." He also added “It's ain't even that. It's just game time when we see them. It's on sight. It's just on sight when we see them. That's it." This matchup will definitely be one to watch.

Trey Hendrickson vs Ronnie Stanley

Trey Hendrickson was one of the most underrated defensive rushers in the league last season. Not to mention, he was actually one of the most consistent edge rushers, not just last year, but in some of the most recent years. On the other hand, Ronnie Stanley is an elite left tackle when he’s healthy. If Stanley can manage to get healthy and stay there, it’ll be a dominate matchup.

George Pickens vs Eli Apple

This matchup has been talked about just about ever since the Steelers took George Pickens in the second round that night during the NFL Draft. These two players have been known to be “outspoken” on the field. It’ll be quite an interesting one to see how it all unravels out.