Browns vs. Falcons: 5 bold predictions in Week 4

4. Denzel Ward bounces back with two picks

Denzel Ward had a tough outing in Week 3. He was matched up against Diontae Johnson for the majority of the night and Johnson pulled in eight receptions for 84 yards. What’s worse is that he could have had much more than that.

There were several plays where Johnson got open but Mitch Trubisky completely missed on the pass. Had those connected, the game might have been much tighter and Ward would have really been hearing the criticism.

With that being said, Ward is still a solid player who just got matched up against a veteran receiver that happens to be a technician when it comes to route running. Johnson has put up more receptions and yardage against other talented corners, and will do so again.

Now in Week 4, Ward is going to be even more focused than he normally is after spending the past week-plus watching the film of Johnson finding open spots in the secondary. Throw in the fact that Atlanta doesn’t have a whole lot outside of rookie Drake London at wideout and this should be a huge bounce-back game for Ward.

Look for him to limit his man but still find a way to secure two picks as Mariota tries to get the ball to London on desperation plays.