NFL Week 8 features an AFC North battle between the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens. The big news in this game is the quarterback change in Cleveland. Deshaun Watson suffered an Achilles injury in Week 7 that will sideline him for the rest of the season and beyond. Meanwhile, the Ravens are emerging as one of the best teams in the NFL. After an 0-2 start the Ravens have won five straight games. Below are my Browns at Ravens Preview and Predictions.
It’s a new era at the quarterback position for the Cleveland Browns. Was last week the last time we saw Deshaun Watson take a snap for the Browns? Enter Jameis Winston at the quarterback position for the Browns. Many, including myself, believe Winston gives the Browns offense the best chance to find success. Further, the Browns saw the return of Nick Chubb in the backfield last week so the the arrow is trending up for the offense.
Meanwhile, the Ravens are dealing with two key injuries. First, Zay Flowers is dealing with an ankle injury and has not practiced since Wednesday. Additionally, Marlon Humphrey sustained a knee injury in Week 7 and has not practiced thus far this week. The Ravens are firing on all cylinders and Lamar Jackson is in MVP form. This game will be a good test for the Browns with the new-look offense.
Browns at Ravens Preview and Predictions
Best Bets
Coming into this game I expect the Browns offense to look better with Winston under center. I also expect the Browns’ defense to rise to the occasion in this spot. Since the 2018 season, the Browns are 4-1 ATS on the road against the Ravens. Furthermore, the Browns’ defense has been stellar against the rush. In fact, the Browns are allowing only 87 rushing yards per game and only 4.19 yards per carry.
The Ravens also come into this game on short rest as they played on Monday Night Football against the Buccaneers. This is too many points for a team to be laying on the road in a division game against a team with an upgrade at the quarterback position. I’ll put my faith in Winston and the Browns to keep this game within a touchdown.
Best Bet: Browns +8
Player Prop Best Bet
David N’Joku Over 51.5 Receiving Yards
Last week the Browns traded Amari Cooper to the Bills leaving a bit of a void at the receiver position. However, one player who I believe will be the beneficiary is David N’Joku. Last week, N’Joku had a season-high 76 receiving yards on 14 targets. Additionally, the Ravens are allowing the second most receiving yards to the tight end position. Four of the last six tight ends the Ravens have faced have gone over this projection.
