Cleveland Browns vs. Cincinnati Bengals: 3 X-Factors in Week 7
By Sam Penix
Can Joe Burrow take advantage of a beat-up defense?
The kid from Athens, Ohio had a rough outing against Baltimore, but aside from that, he’s been very impressive. He threw the ball 61 times against the Browns in Week 2, and while that shouldn’t happen again, Burrow is completely capable of torching this Cleveland defense that has been ravaged by injuries. Ronnie Harrison and Karl Joseph missed this past game, and while the team is hopeful to get them back this week, there is no guarantee.
The Browns defense actually played pretty well against Pittsburgh early on, but things got worse as the game went on. The group has a full game of experience against Burrow, but the inverse is also true. Burrow was harassed by Myles Garrett and company last time around, but when he was given time, Burrow was able to pick apart the second level, usually by taking advantage of linebackers matched up with receivers. If the Bengals can copy Pittsburgh’s gameplan for slowing down Garrett (who finished with just one pressure), Burrow should be able to do some significant damage, especially if the Browns are missing any starters.
Burrow is going to be real nuisance for the next decade-plus, and he’s going to get his first win against Cleveland at some point, The Browns can’t afford for it to happen this week.
Next. Baker Mayfield providing reasons for concern, not to give up. dark
The Browns should win this week. They have the more talented roster, big advantages in key areas, and the better coaching staff. But the Bengals are no pushover, and should not be overlooked.