Brendan O’Sullivan takes you through his preview, prediction and pick for NFL Week 18’s game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns.
The AFC North title is up for grabs heading into Week 18, and there’s a premier matchup between the top two teams in the division on Sunday, Jan. 4. Then, there’s this game featuring the bottom two AFC North squads.
The Bengals and Browns are both eliminated from postseason contention and will play each other for the second time this season. Cincinnati won the first round 17-16 in Week 1.
Cincinnati is a 7.5-point favorite and -410 on the moneyline, while Cleveland is +320 on DraftKings Sportsbook. The game total is set at over/under 44.5 points.
Here’s a preview, prediction and pick for Sunday’s Bengals vs. Browns matchup.
Bengals vs. Browns prediction, preview
The Bengals and Browns have went through numerous changes since they played in Week 1. The Bengals started Joe Burrow, and while he’s back under center, the team was without him for a good chunk of the season due to injury.
Meanwhile, the Browns are onto their third quarterback of this season. Joe Flacco started Week 1 before Cleveland traded him to Cincinnati. Dillon Gabriel started at quarterback for six games, before Shedeur Sanders took over the starting job.
In addition to starting both rookie quarterbacks, the Browns utilized Quinshon Judkins at running back. The rookie rushed for 827 yards and seven touchdowns in 14 games before suffering a season-ending injury.
Despite all the change, Cleveland managed to win four games, including a pivotal game against the Steelers in Week 17. The Bengals are 6-10, so not that far ahead of their division rival.
This game has no bearing for either team since both are out of playoff contention. Additionally, neither are in position to earn the No. 1 pick.
This game is likely to be an opportunity for both teams to get some reps in ahead of the offseason. Some players like Sanders are still proving themselves, while others like Ja’Marr Chase are simply adding to their incredible stat lines.
Bengals vs. Browns pick, best bet
Although the Bengals and Browns are just two wins apart, the spread is set at 7.5 points. Cleveland is on the road, where it’s 1-6 this season. Road games can be tough, especially for rookie quarterbacks.
That being said, the Browns’ defense has a handful of veterans that will perform wherever. Myles Garrett leads this unit and will be the reason why Cleveland keeps this game close.