Cleveland Browns vs. Bengals: Predicting another loss for Hue Jackson

Writer: Casey Kinnamon

In an AFC North Division showdown, the (3-6-1) Cleveland Browns take on the (5-5) Cincinnati Bengals.

The Cleveland Browns come off of their bye week to face the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium this Sunday. The Browns will be looking to end multiple streaks against the AFC North opponent. They have lost the last seven straight games in the Battle of Ohio and have not won a road game since October 11th, 2015.

Baker Mayfield and the Browns offense will square off with a bottom of the barrel Bengal defense. This is not the first time the Browns offense has been set up for success by facing a struggling defense this season. But up until week 10, they had failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Let’s hope they bring Ol’ Uncle Mo with them to Cincinnati on Sunday.

While Gregg Williams dismissed such a notion, expect Freddie Kitchens to change up a few things up to confuse his counterparts Marvin Lewis and Hue “Turncoat” Jackson. The power diamond wishbone may or may not make an appearance, but nothing should be off the table.

Nick Chubb should have plenty of opportunities for chunk runs against this 32nd ranked run defense. A house call or two should be in order for Dr. Chubb. Mayfield could even get in on the act if the opportunity presents itself.

The receiving corps should come to life this week facing the 31st unit versus the pass. With David Njoku limited with an ankle issue, we may even see Seth DeValve get his first meaning snaps of the season.

The defense will have its hands full on Sunday. The Bengals, for all their shortcomings, put points on the board. AJ Green will most likely be a game-time decision. Tyler Boyd has played well while Green has been out. Look for Denzel Ward to shadow Boyd even if Green is able to suit up.

Stopping 2nd year running back Joe Mixon will be the key to putting the Bengals in predictable passing situations. The Cleveland pass rush needs to force Andy Dalton into making poor decisions. If Dalton is without Green those 50/50 balls he likes to throw could become 80/20 balls in the Browns favor.

Getting the win would be huge for the Browns. Not only would it keep them alive for that last elusive playoff spot, but it would also help the culture of the team turn the corner. This Sunday they will be up to the task.

Prediction: Browns 34 Bengals 24