Cleveland Browns: Predicting a bounce-back game vs. the Falcons?

Writer: Chris Markoch

Game: Atlanta Falcons (4-4) at Cleveland Browns (2-6-1)

The Atlanta Falcons come into Cleveland this week riding a three-game winning streak. Last week against the Washington Redskins, Matt Ryan and Julio Jones connected for their first touchdown pass of the season, and after giving up 41 points to the Steelers on October 7, their defense has given up a total of 63 points in the last three games.

In fact, just based on statistics, the Falcons bare a resemblance to the Chiefs. This would not seem to bode well for the Browns who are known for giving up big plays on defense and are missing some key players on that side of the ball.

The good news is that the Browns offense showed signs of life against Kansas City. They moved the ball downfield and got touchdowns when they got inside the red zone. More importantly, it seems like interim offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens and Baker Mayfield are establishing a rapport. The rookie looked more confident against the Chiefs than he has since the Raiders game. This can only be a good sign for a Browns team that had been struggling to score points.

Interim head coach Gregg Williams’ message of accountability and effort led the Browns to offer a spirited effort against the Chiefs. The question is, could the same effort this week lead to a better result. The Falcons are going to score points. The Browns will have to show them they can keep up. I’m hearing weather could be a factor, but if it doesn’t this could be a situation where the last team with the ball wins.  I say it’s the Browns and Greg Joseph gives us the walk-off in a fun shootout on the lakefront.

Final score: Cleveland 34, Atlanta 31