With 90 percent of NFL teams, play at quarterback is the most important factor. Every quarterback in the NFL must step up for his team to be successful. Because of this, I will stay away from naming a quarterback as someone who is "feeling the heat" unless there is no one else on the team who fits those qualifications as well as he can.
My experience with this division goes back many years because each was part of the old AFC Central. This division represents the no-nonsense, black-and-blue, blue-collar style football. In this division, you must play good defense, in bad weather and you must play hurt when necessary.
Baltimore Ravens: Willis McGahee
The Ravens are a mature team that is distinguished by its defense. By the same token, Baltimore has experienced, Pro-Bowl caliber players in many of offensive positions. This franchise always has done an excellent job of replacing the few holes created in the offseason. The Ravens understand the importance of picking up quality players when given the opportunity. Running back Willis McGahee, acquired from Buffalo in the offseason, is the player who must step up, not because of the quality of his production, but because he will be a new face in a key position. Dramatic improvement in the running game could carry Baltimore deep into the playoffs.
Cincinnati Bengals: Rookie class
One of the young, exciting and potential long-term contenders, the Bengals have quality young players at most key positions. There are not many holes in the Bengals' starting roster, but they must hope the draft class comes through and fills some of the needs because of injury, lack of production or suspension. Cornerback stands out more than any position. Rookie defensive backs (Leon Hall and Marvin White) immediately must fill spots. For the Bengals to go far in the playoffs, this rookie class must step up and provide immediate depth.
Cleveland Browns: Starting QB
A city steeped in football tradition, Cleveland's return to the NFL has been less than impressive. The lack of quality of offseason acquisitions and draft selections has been reflected in the win-loss column. The Browns are fighting to get up to speed quickly in this competitive division. Cleveland understands the importance of the quarterback and the team has tried, from its very first draft choice, to fill the need. This year will be a continuation of the process. Quarterback will be vital for Cleveland, not only for the upcoming season but for the future. The winner of the starting quarterback job --- whether it's Charlie Frye, Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson -- will have the greatest influence on the team's record, and thus he will have to step up.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Tomlin
The Steelers are a franchise known for tradition, success and stability. The Steelers have adjusted recently to a young quarterback (Ben Roethlisberger) , young running back (Willie Parker) and they must adjust to a young linebacker (2007 first-round choice Lawrence Timmons). However, since 1992 they have not had to adjust to a new head coach. Mike Tomlin must step up, not so much for his first season record, but more because he must continue creating a successful football environment.
Former Tennessee Titans general manager Floyd Reese contributes frequently to ESPN.com.