Cleveland Browns vs. Bengals score predictions: Battle for Ohio
Writer: Matt McFatridge
Game: Cleveland Browns vs. Cincinnati Bengals
The Cleveland Browns come into their week 14 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals after a disappointing loss against the division-rival Steelers last Sunday. It shouldn’t be surprising anymore, but Cleveland just didn’t look prepared and even after taking a 10-0 lead early, found a way to lose the game.
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While there was a lack of the familiar penalties that killed drives and undiscipline that has hurt this team over the entirety of the season, there still wasn’t enough from the offense to overcome the poor defensive showing that allowed Duck Hodges to throw for over 200 yards and lead his team to a win.
Thankfully, a much less formidable opponent comes to town. While coming off their first win of the season, the Bengals don’t exactly strike fear into the Browns. As poorly coached the Browns have been, they still have much more talent and should be able to handle Andy Dalton and the lackluster Bengals offense. If they are able to contain Joe Mixon on the ground and force Dalton to beat them, they should have a decent day defensively.
As for the offense, Baker Mayfield, Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt, and all of the receivers should be able to feast in this game. If the game is called properly, you could be looking at a big day from all of the offensive playmakers. The big question will be how the noise surrounding Odell Beckham Jr. and his willingness to remain in Cleveland beyond this season affects the rest of the team.
If they are able to put it behind them and just play football, they should have no issues at all dominating and putting together their best game of the season. Browns fans can only hope that Freddie Kitchens doesn’t try to get creative and allow the Bengals to hang around for longer than they should. A loss to the Bengals is never acceptable, but especially not when you’re already on the hot seat.
Prediction: Browns 34, Bengals16