Week 9 Predictions: Can Cleveland Browns score road win in Denver?

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DENVER, CO – DECEMBER 15: Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns scrambles in the third quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on December 15, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) /

Writer: Matthew McFatridge

Game: Cleveland Browns (2-5) and Denver Broncos (2-6)

This game is exactly what fans have been talking about for weeks. The schedule down the stretch gets much easier for the Browns, and it starts against the Broncos. A win here could get the Browns back on the right track and moving towards better things as the second half of the season comes around. A loss here, though, and you’re looking at a lost season getting even worse.

Thankfully for Cleveland, as bad as things have looked, it’s been just as bad at points for the Denver Broncos. Both teams have had some close losses in games they very well could have won. But the Browns enter this game with more to lose than the Broncos.

For one, Denver will be starting a quarterback making his first-ever start. Putting that behind the sieve of an offensive line that Denver has had this season could be exactly what the Browns need to get their mojo back. Look for a big game from all the big names on defense, including Myles Garrett and Olivier Vernon having multiple sacks each.

The real concern for Cleveland is going to be the offense and how they handle this game. They should have no problem in this game against a good but outmatched defense. Nick Chubb should see plenty of action and should get a few big runs like he seems to get every week. As long as he holds onto the ball, things will be okay there.

It comes down to Baker playing smart and taking what he is given, and Freddie Kitchens game management and playcalling. Denver should have no chance in this game. If the Kitchens that we’ve seen this season keeps doing what he’s done, though, it could be closer than it should be.

The Browns have more talent all around than the Broncos and should win this game easily. It comes down to not beating themselves. They sit at 2-5 because of themselves more so than their opponents beating them. Clean up the penalties, don’t turn the ball over, and take what the defense gives you. Pair that with the good defensive showing you should get against a first time starting quarterback, and Cleveland should get back on track with a win.

Prediction: Cleveland 34-13

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